The Bristol Bladder trial: A single-arm phase II trial of cisplatin and cabazitaxel for muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder prior to radical cystectomy

468

Background: Neoadjuvant cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy improves survival in muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma (MI-TCC). However response rates and survival remain suboptimal. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of cabazitaxel (CBZ) with cisplatin (CIS) in this setting. Methods: A single arm phase 2 study was designed with 80% power to detect an objective response rate (ORR) of >35%. Patients with MI-TCC were included if fit to receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy and to undergo radical cystectomy. Treatment was with CIS 70mg/m2 and CBZ 15mg/m2 on day 1 of a 21 day cycle, for 4 cycles prior to surgery. Primary prophylaxis was with pegylated GCSF. Toxicity was recorded using CTCAE v.4.03. Objective response was defined as a reduction in Tumour (T) stage from T2 or greater at diagnosis, to T1 or less at radical cystectomy. QoL data was assessed during and after chemotherapy using EQ-5D and EORTC-BLM30 questionnaires. Results: 28 patients were enrolled with median age 68.6 years (range 47-79). Response outcome (first 23 cases) and toxicity data (first 24 cases) are in this abstract; the remaining cases, currently scheduled for surgery, will be added to the final presentation. Pathological complete response (pCR) was observed in 7/23 patients (30.4%) and ORR was 56.5% (13/23). 18/24 (75%) completed 4 cycles; reasons for stopping were disease progression (2/24, 8.3%), adverse events (2/24, 8.3%) and patient choice (2/24, 8.3%). 7/24 patients (29%) experienced treatment related grade 3 and 4 adverse events. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that CIS and CBZ chemotherapy has an acceptable safety profile and is well tolerated in this setting. This combination shows promising efficacy (pCR 30.4%, ORR 56.5%) prior to definitive treatment for MI-TCC. Response outcomes for all patients and QoL data will be reported in the final presentation. Grade 3/4 adverse events. Clinical trial information: NCT01616875. [Table: see text]

Upfront docetaxel with androgen deprivation therapy in the elderly patient with metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer: Single institution experience

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Background: Following CHAARTED & STAMPEDE, upfront Docetaxel chemotherapy became standard of care for metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer (mHNPC). We sought to evaluate our experience in the elderly group of patients (>70 yrs) compared with the non-elderly cohort. Methods: A retrospective analysis was undertaken of 38 patients commenced on upfront docetaxel chemotherapy, from Jan 16 - Jan 17. Patients were stratified as low (LR) and high risk (HR), as per the LATITUDE study. Progression was defined as per PCWG-3 criteria. The progression free survival (PFS) was calculated as time from start of treatment to date of progression and analysed by Kaplan-Meier estimates and log-rank test. Rates of febrile neutropenia (FN) were also evaluated. Results: The median age was 69 (range: 53-80) yrs, with 50% (19/38) HR patients. The median PFS was 11.5m for progressors (P; 42%) and not reached for non-progressors (NP; 58%), (p<0.0001). Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) was used in 13/38 (34%) patients; these did not experience FN. The overall rate of FN was 20% where G-CSF was not used. Overall 31/38 (81.6%) completed 6 cycles of chemotherapy, with 26% requiring dose reductions (Table). Overall, of the 9/16 (56.3%) patients who progressed within 6m of completing docetaxel, 3 had Cabazitaxel as the next treatment (P: 2/3 (66.7%), median PFS 6.2m) and 6 had novel androgen receptor targeted therapy (P: 5/6 (83.3%), median PFS 3.3m). Conclusions: Upfront docetaxel is reasonably well tolerated in the elderly with comparable median PFS to younger patients. Use of GCSF significantly minimizes the risk of FN in this group and should be considered as standard of care. In patients who progress within 6m of completing docetaxel, we feel optimal sequencing to be Cabazitaxel followed by subsequent therapies.[Table: see text]

VinCaP: A phase II trial of vinflunine chemotherapy in locally-advanced and metastatic carcinoma of the penis (CRUK/12/021)

547

Background: Platinum-based combination chemotherapy regimens are used in the treatment of carcinoma of the penis, but toxicity limits their value for patients with metastatic disease. This trial aims to define both the toxicity and the rate of disease control for the non-platinum cytotoxic agent Vinflunine. Methods: A phase II single-arm trial was designed to demonstrate a clinical benefit rate of at least 40% and to exclude a rate of less than 15% (p0 = 0.15, p1 = 0.40, α = 0.05, β = 0.80, Fleming-A’hern exact design). 22 evaluable patients were required. Key eligibility criteria included measurable, histologically-proven squamous cell carcinoma of the penis staged as M1; or M0, Tx, N3; or M0, Tx, N2 and deemed inoperable by multidisciplinary team; or M0, T4 any N. Patients were required to have ECOG performance status of 0, 1 or 2 and adequate hepatic and renal function. Treatment comprised four 21-day cycles of vinflunine (320mg/m2) with RECIST v1.1 restaging following cycle 4 (response primary endpoint). Patients deemed to be benefitting from treatment were permitted to continue vinflunine at the discretion of the treating clinician until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Results: 25 patients were recruited from 8 UK centres between June 2014 and May 2017. Median age was 68 years; 19 patients had metastatic (M1) disease. All patients have completed trial treatment and primary endpoint assessment. Data cleaning for the primary analysis is currently in progress, with the snapshot for the primary analysis due in October 2017 and primary analysis to be presented to the trial oversight committees in November 2017. Conclusions: It is hoped that single-agent vinflunine will be associated with a favourable toxicity profile combined with meaningful clinical responses. The results will be available for presentation at the meeting. Clinical trial information: NCT02057913.

Evaluation of Acute Toxicity and Early Clinical Outcome in Head and Neck Cancers Treated With Conventional Radiotherapy and Simultaneous Integrated Boost Arc Radiotherapy

Background

Chemoradiotherapy plays an important role in management of locally advanced head and neck cancers. This retrospective analysis was done to evaluate and compare acute toxicity profiles and early clinical outcomes in patients treated with conventional and arc techniques.

Methods

Fifty-five patients of head and neck cancers were evaluated. Thirty patients received conventional radiotherapy with 6 MV or cobalt 60 and 25 patients were treated with simultaneous integrated boost-volumetric modulated arc radiotherapy (SIB-VMAT) with dose prescription of 66 - 70 Gy. Concurrent chemotherapy was given as cisplatin injection at 40 mg/m² weekly or 100 mg/m² thrice weekly.

Results

The incidence of grade 3-4 mucositis was 56% versus 83.3% with SIB-VMAT and conventional treatments (P = 0.026). The incidence of grade 2-3 xerostomia was 44% versus 80% (P = 0.006) in the two groups. Grade 2 dysphagia was seen in 40% versus 80% (P = 0.008) favoring the arc treatments. Seventeen patients undergoing arc treatment had complete response compared to 14 in the conventional group (P = 0.040). The median disease-free survival (median ± standard error) was 16 months (11 ± 1.987 months) in the conventional and arc groups (P = 0.073).

Conclusion

SIB-VMAT shows a better toxicity profile and a trend towards better disease-free survival when compared to conventional radiotherapy in head and neck cancers.

Hyperglycemia Promotes TMPRSS2-ERG Gene Fusion in Prostate Cancer Cells via Upregulating Insulin-Like Growth Factor-Binding Protein-2

BACKGROUND

Epidemiologic evidence shows that obesity is associated with a greater risk of aggressive prostate cancer (PCa) and PCa-specific mortality and this is observed mainly in men with the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion. Obesity is often associated with comorbid conditions such as type 2 diabetes and hyperglycemia: we investigated whether some of the exposures associated with disturbed metabolism can also affect the frequency of this gene fusion.

METHODS

Fusion was induced in LNCaP PCa cells in normal or high levels of glucose, with or without insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) silenced or the presence of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), insulin, or epidermal growth factor (EGF). RNA was extracted for analysis by nested PCR. Abundance of IGFBP-2, γH2AX, DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNAPKcs), and β-actin were analyzed by Western immunoblotting.

RESULTS

Our data suggest that hyperglycemia-induced IGFBP-2 increased the frequency of the gene fusion that was accompanied by decreased levels of DNAPKcs implying that they were mediated by alterations in the rate of repair of double-strand breaks. In contrast insulin, IGF-I and EGF all decreased gene fusion events.

CONCLUSION

These novel observations may represent a further mechanism by which obesity can exert an effect aggravating PCa progression.

Acceptability of dietary and physical activity lifestyle modification for men following radiotherapy or radical prostatectomy for localised prostate cancer: a qualitative investigation

BACKGROUND

The experience and acceptability of lifestyle interventions for men with localised prostate cancer are not well understood, yet lifestyle interventions are increasingly promoted for cancer survivors. We explored the opinions, experiences and perceived acceptability of taking part in nutritional and physical activity interventions amongst men with prostate cancer and their partners; with the ultimate plan to use such information to inform the development of nutritional and physical activity interventions for men with prostate cancer.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews with 16 men, and seven partners, undergoing curative surgery or radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Interviews explored experiences of lifestyle interventions, acceptable changes participants would make and perceived barriers and facilitators to change. Interviews were thematically analysed using the framework approach.

RESULTS

Men were frequently open to lifestyle modification and family support was considered vital to facilitate change. Health beneficial, clinician endorsed, understandable, enjoyable interventions were perceived as attractive. Barriers included 'modern' digital technology, poor weather, competing commitments or physical limitations, most notably incontinence following radical prostatectomy. Men were keen to participate in research, with few negative aspects identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Men are willing to change behaviour but this needs to be supported by clinicians and health professionals facilitating lifestyle change. An 'intention-behaviour gap', when an intended behaviour does not materialise, may exist. Digital technology for data collection and lifestyle measurement may not be suitable for all, and post-surgery urinary incontinence is a barrier to physical activity. These novel findings should be incorporated into lifestyle intervention development, and implemented clinically.

Pre-Treatment Nutritional Status and Radiotherapy Outcome in Patients with Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancers

AIM

Poor oral intake and associated nutritional depletion can affect treatment outcome in locally advanced head and neck cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pre radiotherapy nutritional status as a predictor for response to radiotherapy treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty patients of locally advanced head and neck cancers undergoing radical chemoradiotherapy were evaluated in this prospective analysis. Patients were treated with definitive radiotherapy to a total dose of 60-70 Gy along with concurrent chemotherapy with injection Cisplatin 100mg/m2 delivered three weekly. The patients were evaluated for pre-treatment nutritional status using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) questionnaire. The PG-SGA evaluation was completed just before starting radiotherapy treatment and scores correlated to treatment outcome.

RESULTS

Forty-seven male and three female patients were evaluated in this analysis. The median PG-SGA score was 8 with a range from 2-14.Grade 3-4 mucositis was seen in seven patients (21.8%) with PGSGA <9 compared to 55.5% in those with PG-SGA score = 9 (p=0.01). At the time of evaluation a complete response was seen in 16 patients (32%) with a PG-SGA score <9 compared to 4 patients (8%) with a PGSGA =9 (p=0.05). The median survival was 16±2.8months (Median ±S. Error) and 17±2.9 months in those with PG-SGA <9 and =9 respectively (p=0.49, log rank).

CONCLUSION

PG-SGA nutritional score <9 is associated with a better local control and acute toxicity profile in radically treated head and neck cancer patients.

Randomized Phase II Study Investigating Pazopanib Versus Weekly Paclitaxel in Relapsed or Progressive Urothelial Cancer

Purpose Two previous single-arm trials have drawn conflicting conclusions regarding the activity of pazopanib in urothelial cancers after failure of platinum-based chemotherapy. Patients and Methods This randomized (1:1) open-label phase II trial compared the efficacy of pazopanib 800 mg orally with paclitaxel (80 mg/m2 days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days) in the second-line setting. The primary end point was overall survival (OS). Results Between August 2012 and October 2014, 131 patients, out of 140 planned, were randomly assigned. The study was terminated early on the recommendation of the independent data monitoring committee because of futility. Final analysis after the preplanned number of deaths (n = 110) occurred after a median follow-up of 18 months. One hundred fifteen deaths had occurred at the final data extract presented here. Median OS was 8.0 months for paclitaxel (80% CI, 6.9 to 9.7 months) and 4.7 months for pazopanib (80% CI, 4.2 to 6.4 months). The hazard ratio (HR) adjusted for baseline stratification factors was 1.28 (80% CI, 0.99 to 1.67; one-sided P = .89). Median progression-free survival was 4.1 months for paclitaxel (80% CI, 3.0 to 5.6 months) and 3.1 months for pazopanib (80% CI, 2.7 to 4.6 months; HR, 1.09; 80% CI, 0.85 to 1.40; one-sided P = .67). Discontinuations for toxicity occurred in 7.8% and 23.1% for paclitaxel and pazopanib, respectively. Conclusion Pazopanib did not have greater efficacy than paclitaxel in the second-line treatment of urothelial cancers. There was a trend toward superior OS for paclitaxel.

Can dynamic changes in prognostic markers predict survival in patients receiving VEGF-targeted therapy in clear cell renal cell carcinoma?

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Background: Markers of the systemic inflammatory response have prognostic value in ccRCC prior to starting treatment. Dynamic changes during therapy and their role in predicting prognosis are not well characterised. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of a randomised, double-blind phase II study evaluating cediranib vs cediranib and saracatinib in patients with relapsed metastatic ccRCC (COSAK). Haemoglobin (Hb), neutrophil count (N0) platelet count (Plt), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were recorded at randomisation, 8-weeks and progression (PD). Change in mean values at each time point were compared. Baseline prognostic values for overall survival (OS) were assessed using Cox regression. Absolute changes in parameters were calculated at 8 weeks and PD, patients were grouped around the upper or lower quartile. Prognostic value of dynamic changes was assessed at 8 weeks and PD using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: 138 patients were assessed; median OS was 12.0 months (IQR 8.1-15.6 months). Outcomes in the combination arm were similar to single agent arm (HR 1.28 (1.00–1.63)). On multivariate analysis at baseline, MSKCC score (0/1-2/≥3) (HR 2.52 (1.60 -3.96)), CRP ( < 10/≥10mg/L) (HR 1.72 (1.04 – 2.86)) and N0 ( < 7.5/≥7.5x109) (HR 2.38 (1.43 – 3.96)) were independent predictors of OS. Mean CRP was significantly different at baseline, 8 weeks and PD (64.9, 42.3 and 85.7 mg/L respectively, p < 0.001). Mean N0 count at baseline was 5.3 x109/L and was significantly higher 6.3x 109/L at PD (p < 0.001). Mean Hb at baseline, 8 weeks and PD was 11.5, 13.0 and 12.9g/L respectively (P < 0.001). A rise in CRP or N0 at 8 weeks was predictive of poor outcome ((HR 1.62 (1.10-2.56) and (HR 1.77 (1.19-2.61) respectively). A fall in Hb was predictive of poor outcome at 8 weeks (HR 1.75 (1.18-2.60)) and PD (HR 1.80 (1.20-2.76)). Conclusions: Dynamic changes occur in prognostic markers in patients receiving VEGF-targeted therapy in ccRCC and may predict OS.

A randomised phase 2 study of 3 weekly cabazitaxel vs weekly paclitaxel chemotherapy in the first-line treatment of HER2 negative metastatic breast cancer

TPS1122

Background: Breast cancer (BC) represents 25% of all cancers in women. Whilst the majority have early stage disease approximately 30% will develop metastatic breast cancer (MBC). In HER2 negative MBC, palliative chemotherapy is one of the main treatment options. It remains to be seen whether the use of adjuvant taxane chemotherapy leads to an increase in taxane resistance at the onset of MBC, although for patients with a relatively short disease free interval this may be the case. Cabazitaxel (CBZ) is a novel taxoid selected for development from preclinical evidence in cell lines resistant to docetaxel and paclitaxel including activity in a HER-2 positive BC tumour xenograft, with innate resistance to docetaxel. Clinically CBZ is licensed for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer following progression during or after docetaxel chemotherapy. A phase 3 RCT in this patient group showed a 3 month overall survival benefit for patients receiving CBZ and prednisolone compared with mitoxantrone and prednisolone. Methods: CONCEPT is an open label randomised phase 2 trial of first line chemotherapy in patients with HER-2 negative MBC where paclitaxel would be considered the standard treatment. Patients are randomised to cabazitaxel 25 mg/m2 every 21 days for 6 cycles or paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 weekly for 18 weeks. Eligibility includes patients who are PS 0 or 1 who may have received prior docetaxel in the adjuvant setting or be taxane-naïve. The primary endpoint is progression free survival (PFS), defined as the time between the date of randomisation and progression (according to RECIST version 1.1) or death from any cause. Secondary end-points include safety, overall survival and assessment of quality of life factors by FACT-B and EQ-5D-5L. For the current phase 2 study 90 patients will be recruited, with a 1:1 randomisation, proceeding to phase 3 of 160 patients, if the interim analysis does not show futility. To date 38 patients have been recruited from 10 centres. The IDMC met in Oct 2016 and recommended the study continue recruitment.

Considering renal risk while managing cancer

Renal function is an important consideration in the management of patients with advanced cancer. There is a reciprocal relationship between cancer and the kidney: chronic kidney disease can increase the risk of developing cancer, and patients with cancer often experience renal impairment owing to age, disease-related factors and nephrotoxic treatments. As therapies for cancer continue to improve, patients are living longer with their disease, potentially extending the period over which they are susceptible to long-term complications. Furthermore, secondary symptoms, such as bone metastases or infections, may arise that will require treatment. Certain treatments, including chemotherapy, antibiotics and some bone-targeted agents, are nephrotoxic and may require dose modifications or interruptions to prevent renal injury. Nephrologists should play a key role in the identification and management of renal impairment in patients with cancer. Furthermore, they may be able to provide advice on protecting the kidneys in instances where nephrotoxic agents require dose reductions or interruptions, and when novel therapies or combinations are used. Collaboration between oncologists and nephrologists is important to optimal patient management. This article reviews the relationship between cancer and kidney disease and examines the treatments that may impact kidney function. Considerations for monitoring renal function are also discussed.

The feasibility of the Prostate cancer: Evidence of Exercise and Nutrition Trial (PrEvENT) dietary and physical activity modifications: a qualitative study

Background

There is increasing evidence that low levels of physical activity and diets low in fruit and vegetables and high in meat and dairy products are risk factors for prostate cancer disease progression. The Prostate cancer: Evidence of Exercise and Nutrition Trial (PrEvENT) aimed to assess a diet and physical activity intervention in men undergoing radical prostatectomy for localized prostate cancer. The trial included a qualitative component to explore the experiences of men participating in the trial in order to understand the acceptability of the intervention and data collection methods. We report the qualitative findings of the trial and consider how these can be used to inform future research.

Methods

PrEvENT involved randomizing men to either a dietary and/or physical activity intervention. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 17 men on completion of the 6 month trial. Interviews took place in clinic or as telephone interviews, if requested by the participant, and were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the thematic-based framework approach. Analysis was conducted throughout the data collection process to allow emergent themes to be further explored in subsequent interviews.

Results

Three overarching themes were identified: acceptability of the intervention, acceptability of the data collection methods and trial logistics. Participants were predominantly positive about both the dietary and physical activity interventions and most men found the methods of data collection appropriate. Recommendations for future trials include consideration of alternative physical activity options, such as cycling or gym sessions, increased information on portion sizes, the potential importance of including wives or partners in the dietary change process and the possibility of using the pedometer or other wearable technology as part of the physical activity intervention.

Conclusions

We provide insight into the opinions and experiences of the acceptability of the PrEvENT diet and physical activity intervention from the participants themselves. The interventions delivered were acceptable to this sample of participants, as were the data collection methods utilized. We also highlight some considerations for further behavioural change interventions in prostate cancer and other similar populations.

Trial registration

ISRCTN, ISRCTN99048944. Registered on 17 November 2014.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-017-1828-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Radium-223 in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: Effect of performance score and albumin levels

e594

Background: Radium-223 (Ra223) is a novel alpha-emitting radiopharmaceutical agent approved for use in patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastases based on ALSYMPCA results. However, its optimal sequencing in the treatment of mCRPC remains unclear. We evaluated the relevance of albumin (A) levels to aid in optimal selection and timing for Ra223 treatment. Methods: Eighty-eight patients had completed treatment with Ra223 from Feb 2014 - Sep 2016. The patients were planned to receive 6 injections at a dose of 55 kBq/kg every 4 weeks. Visual analogue score (VAS) was used to assess pain. The effect of serum alkaline phosphatase (SAP), docetaxel chemotherapy, A levels and performance score (ECOG-PS) on progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Results: At baseline (BL) median age was 74.5years; 68% of patients were ECOG-PS-0/1; median VAS was 4.5 & median A level was 34g/dL. 48% had received prior docetaxel. 45 patients (51%) received all the scheduled 6 cycles with significant reduction in the pain scores after 6 cycles compared to the BL score (p < 0.05). The reduction in pain scores was independent of the PSA response and ECOG-PS. A 34% reduction in the SAP levels was seen (p = 0.003). The treatment was well tolerated with no grade 3,4 toxicity. Discontinuation rate was 49% (43/88) due to disease progression. In PS-0/1 patients who completed 6 cycles, PFS & OS were significantly longer compared to those who didn't (7.8vs.4.2& 21vs.7.6 months, respectively). Patients with SAP ≤ 220 U/L & A ≥ 34 g/dL also had significantly prolonged OS (16.2vs.8.6 & 16.1vs.9.5 months, respectively). Patients with PS-2/3 also had significantly longer PFS and OS with completion of 6 cycles and prolonged OS with SAP ≤ 220 U/L, but not with A levels. Conclusions: Ra223 is a safe and effective treatment for mCRPC with bone metastases. Completion of 6 cycles improved outcome. Lower SAP and high A levels significantly prolonged OS in PS-1/2 patients. Whilst the level of SAP can be a reflection of disease activity, monitoring A levels and ensuring that Ra223 is started before A level goes below 34, especially in PS-1/2 patients will aid in the benefit from this treatment in mCRPC.

Real life treatment sequences and survival of men with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) receiving cabazitaxel in clinical practice across England

e573

Background: New life-prolonging anticancer treatments (LPT), including docetaxel (D), cabazitaxel (C), abiraterone (A) and enzalutamide (E) have transformed outcomes for patients with mCRPC; however, optimal treatment sequencing is unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the anticancer treatment sequencing and outcomes of patients receiving cabazitaxel in England. Methods: A multi-centre, observational, retrospective study of mCRPC patients treated with cabazitaxel after docetaxel treatment failure was conducted. Data on patient characteristics, anticancer treatments, toxicity and outcomes were collected from medical records between March 2015 and March 2016. Results: 115 patients with mCRPC from 5 English hospitals were evaluated. Mean age at cabazitaxel initiation was 69.4 (SD: 6.7) years. Median time from mCRPC diagnosis to cabazitaxel initiation was 18.0 (interquartile range: 11.4–28.7) months. Cabazitaxel was 2nd line therapy after docetaxel in 58/115 (50%) patients. Patients received a median of 3 (range: 2–4) different LPTs: 5 patients received 2 therapies (DC = 5); 89 patients received 3 therapies (DAC = 44, DCA = 32, DCE = 7, ADC = 4, DEC = 1, EDC = 1); 21 patients received 4 therapies (DACE = 9; DCAE = 5; DCEA = 5; DAEC = 2). Median overall survival (OS) from mCRPC diagnosis and from docetaxel initiation according to number of LPTs is presented in the table. Conclusions: A variety of mCRPC treatment sequences are used in real-world practice. OS was greater in those patients receiving ≥3 LPTs, with a non-significant yet intriguing trend to longer OS with DCA. Further follow up may indicate whether this will become statistically significant. [Table: see text]

Second line axitinib in metastatic renal cell carcinoma: Evaluation of prognostic factors influencing outcome

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Background: Axitinib has been approved for 2nd line treatment in the UK for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma on the basis of the AXIS study, which showed improved progression free survival (PFS) and a trend towards overall survival (OS) benefit. There is no randomised data to support the use of Axitinib after first line Pazopanib. Hence, we compared the efficacy of Axitinib after first line Pazopanib or Sunitinib. The influence of Heng prognostic risk score (HPRS) at initiation of Axitinib, previous nephrectomy, and haemoglobin (Hb) rise during Axitinib treatment on outcome was also evaluated. Methods: Thirty one patients were commenced on Axitinib between May 2013-May 2016. Patient demographics, laboratory parameters, and survival data were collected retrospectively. Data were analysed in October 2016, which served as a censor date for patients who were alive. Analysis of PFS and OS was performed by Kaplan-Meier estimates and log-rank test. Results: All 31 patients received axitinib as 2nd line treatment. At the time of analysis, 14 patients were alive and 7 remained on axitinib. The prognostic factors influencing outcome are shown in the table. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in PFS or OS regardless of first line treatment, supporting the use of axitinib post pazopanib or sunitinib. Prior nephrectomy, and favourable HPRS significantly predict better PFS and OS. The impact of Hb rise needs further validation in a larger cohort.[Table: see text]

The provision of dietary and physical activity advice for men diagnosed with prostate cancer: a qualitative study of the experiences and views of health care professionals, patients and partners

Purpose

To explore the views and experiences of health care professionals (HCPs), men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer and their partners about the provision of advice on diet and physical activity after diagnosis and treatment for localised prostate cancer.

Methods

Semi-structured in-depth interviews with ten HCPs (Consultant Urological Surgeons, Uro-Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialists and Allied Health Professionals: see Table 1) and sixteen men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer and seven of their partners. Data from interviews were thematically analysed using the Framework Approach.

Results

The men and their partners provided differing accounts to the HCPs and sometimes to each other concerning the provision of advice on diet and physical activity. Some men were unable to recall receiving such advice from HCPs. Factors impacting upon advice-giving included the perceived lack of an evidence base to support dietary and physical activity advice and the credibility of advice providers. The timing of advice provision was a contentious issue as some HCPs believed that patients might not be willing to receive dietary and physical activity advice at the time of diagnosis, whilst others viewed this an opportune time to provide behaviour change information. Patients concurred with the latter opinion.

Conclusions

Men and their partners would value nutritional and physical activity advice from their HCP, after a localised prostate cancer diagnosis. Men would prefer to receive this advice at an early stage in their cancer journey and may implement behaviour change if the received advice is clear and evidence-based. HCPs should receive suitable training regarding what information to provide to men and how best to deliver this information.

Quality of life evaluation of the effect of decapeptyl compared with zoladex preradiotherapy: Final results of randomised controlled trial

62

Background: Hormone therapy in combination with radiotherapy is a curative treatment option for prostate cancer (CaP). There is paucity of data regarding quality of life (QoL) evaluation of neoadjuvant Decapeptyl. We reported on the equivalence of cytoreductive efficacy of neoadjuvant Decapeptyl and Zoladex previously. Here we present the final QoL evaluation of the effect of Decapeptyl compared with Zoladex preradiotherapy. Methods: Seventy-one patients with localised CaP who have chosen radical radiotherapy had been randomised by stratified block design, toreceive either Decapeptyl (D: n = 37) or Zoladex (Z: n = 34) with bicalutamide cover. All the patients had subsequent radical radiotherapy and followed up as per departmental protocol. The effect of Decapeptyl and Zoladex on QoL was assessed using EQ5D, QLQ-PR25, QLQ-C30 questionnaires, which were completed at baseline, 6, 10 & 14 weeks after start of therapy. QoL scores were analysed as mean scores over the 4 treatment time points for all domains, controlling for baseline scores using Analysis of Covariance. Results: There was no clinically significant difference or trend towards worsening QoL with either Z or D in the global (EQ5D) and cancer-specific (QLQ-C30) domains. The cancer-specific (QLQ-C30) symptom score also showed no trend towards worsening QoL with either Z or D. Symptom scores in the QLQ-PR25 questionnaire did not show a significant difference between Z and D arms with the exception of hormone symptoms. The hormone symptoms showed an increasing trend over the 4 treatment time points, with those in the Z arm significantly (p = 0.02) more affected (3 points higher on average) than patients in the D arm, despite equivalence in cytoreductive effect and achieving castrate levels of testosterone. Conclusions: There were no clinically significant differences in QoL domains between Zoladex and Decapeptyl, apart from hormones symptoms which were worse with Zoladex. Further validation is required with affect on hormone symptoms as the primary outcome measure. To our knowledge this is the first reported prospective randomised data demonstrating the effect of Zoladex and Decapeptyl, on QoL in the neoadjuvant setting. Clinical trial information: EduraCT: 2008-007028-25.

Abstract P6-02-09: Hyperglycaemia and fibronectin: The criminal partnership during breast cancer progression

This abstract was withdrawn by the authors.

The Rationale for Post-Operative Radiation in Localized Bladder Cancer

Local-regional recurrence for patients with ≥pT3 disease after radical cystectomy is a significant problem. Chemotherapy has not been shown to reduce the risk of local-regional recurrences in randomized prospective trials, and salvage therapies for local-regional failure are rarely successful. There is promising evidence, particularly from a recent Egyptian NCI trial, that radiation therapy plus chemotherapy can significantly reduce local recurrences compared to chemotherapy alone, and that this improvement in local-regional control may translate to meaningful improvements in disease-free and overall survival with acceptable toxicity. In light of the high rates of local failure following cystectomy for locally advanced disease and the progress that has been made in identifying patients at high risk of failure and the patterns of failure in the pelvis, the NCCN guidelines were revised in 2016 to include post-operative radiotherapy as an option to consider for patients with ≥pT3 disease. Despite advances in our understanding of the problem of local-regional failure after cystectomy and the potential role of adjuvant radiotherapy, the question of whether adjuvant radiotherapy should have a defined role for patients with locally advanced urothelial carcinoma has not yet been determined. The results of the NRG, European, Indian, and Egyptian trials on adjuvant radiotherapy are eagerly awaited. While none of these trials on their own may provide definitive conclusions, their aggregate outcomes will help clarify whether this treatment should have a role in the management of patients with locally advanced bladder cancer.

Hyperglycaemia-induced resistance to Docetaxel is negated by metformin: a role for IGFBP-2

The incidence of many common cancers varies between different populations and appears to be affected by a Western lifestyle. Highly proliferative malignant cells require sufficient levels of nutrients for their anabolic activity. Therefore, targeting genes and pathways involved in metabolic pathways could yield future therapeutics. A common pathway implicated in energetic and nutritional requirements of a cell is the LKB1/AMPK pathway. Metformin is a widely studied anti-diabetic drug, which improves glycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes by targeting this pathway. We investigated the effect of metformin on prostate cancer cell lines and evaluated its mechanism of action using DU145, LNCaP, PC3 and VCaP prostate cancer cell lines. Trypan blue dye-exclusion assay was used to assess levels of cell death. Western immunoblotting was used to determine the abundance of proteins. Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) and AMPK genes were silenced using siRNA. Effects on cell morphology were visualised using microscopy. IGFBP-2 gene expression was assessed using real-time RT-PCR. With DU145 and LNCaP cells metformin alone induced cell death, but this was reduced in hyperglycaemic conditions. Hyperglycaemia also reduced the sensitivity to Docetaxel, but this was countered by co-treatment with metformin. LKB1 was required for the activation of AMPK but was not essential to mediate the induction of cell death. An alternative pathway by which metformin exerted its action was through downregulation of IGFBP-2 in DU145 and LNCaP cells, independently of AMPK. This finding could have important implications in relation to therapeutic strategies in prostate cancer patients presenting with diabetes.

Adjuvant radiotherapy for pathological high-risk muscle invasive bladder cancer: time to reconsider?

Radical cystectomy with extended pelvic lymph-node dissection, associated with neo-adjuvant chemotherapy, remains the standard of care for advanced, non-metastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Loco-regional control is a key factor in the outcome of patients since it is related to overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and cause-specific survival. The risk of loco-regional recurrence (LRR) is correlated to pathological factors as well as the extent of the lymphadenectomy. In addition, neither pre- nor post-operative chemotherapy have shown a clear impact on LRR-free survival. Several recent publications have led to the development of a nomogram predicting the risk of LRR, in order to identify patients most likely to benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy. Given the high risk of LRR for selected patients and improvements in radiation techniques that can reduce toxicity, there is a growing interest in adjuvant radiotherapy; international cooperative groups have come together to provide the rationale in favor of adjuvant radiotherapy. Clinical trials in order to reduce the risk of pelvic relapse are opened based on this optimizing patient selection. The aim of this critical literature review is to provide an overview of the rationale supporting the studies of adjuvant radiation for patients with pathologic high-risk MIBC.

Insulin Receptor Isoform Variations in Prostate Cancer Cells

Men who develop prostate cancer (PCa) increasingly have one of the co-morbidities associated with a Western lifestyle that are characterized by hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia and increased expression of insulin-like growth factors-I (IGF-I) and IGF-II. Each have been associated with poor prognosis and more aggressive cancers that exhibit increased metabolism and increased glucose uptake. The insulin receptor (IR) has two splice isoforms IR-A and IR-B: IR-A has a higher affinity for IGF-II comparable to that for insulin, whereas the IR-B isoform predominantly just binds to insulin. In this study, we assessed alterations in the IR-A and IR-B isoform ratio and associated changes in cell proliferation and migration of PCa cell lines following exposure to altered concentrations of glucose and treatment with IGF-II and insulin. We observed that where IR-B predominated insulin had a greater effect on migration than IGF-II and IGF-II was more effective when IR-A was the main isoform. With regard to proliferation IGF-II was more effective than insulin regardless of which isoform was dominant. We assessed the abundance of the IR isoforms both in vivo and in vitro and observed that the majority of the tissue samples and cell lines expressed more IR-A than IR-B. Alterations in the isoforms in response to changes in their hormonal milieu could have a profound impact on how malignant cells behave and play a role in promoting carcinogenesis. A greater understanding of the mechanisms underlying changes in alternative splicing of the IR may provide additional targets for future cancer therapies.