Combination of paclitaxel, ifosfamide, and cisplatin is an effective second-line therapy for patients with relapsed testicular germ cell tumors

Management of residual disease after chemotherapy in germ cell tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although testicular cancer remains a highly curable malignancy, challenges and uncertainty still remain in certain aspects of management. Residual disease after chemotherapy in patients with germ cell tumors (GCT) remains one of these challenges. We aim to highlight the recent literature on the management of residual disease after chemotherapy in GCT and the emerging innovations that may provide further guidance into this area.

RECENT FINDINGS

A subset of patients with GCT will have residual disease after chemotherapy, and management of these patients involves highly skilled multidisciplinary experts including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists. Management options depend on histologic subtype, either seminoma or nonseminoma, and involve size criteria, possible further imaging modalities, and tumor markers. Even with these tools at highly specialized expert centers, uncertainty in management remains, and recent literature has explored the use of newer biomarkers to aid in these cases.

SUMMARY

Postchemotherapy residual masses in GCT can prove to be complicated cases to manage. Balancing survival with quality of life outcomes is important and requires a multidisciplinary team experienced in treating GCT.

Risk of second primary malignancies of adolescent and young adult patients with germ cell cancer: A US population-based analysis

PURPOSE

Germ cell cancer (GCC) is a group of neoplasms with heterogeneity. Predominant in young adults, GCC potentially mitigates a high number of productive years of life lost. Indeed, long-term side effects have arisen as a problem in GCC survivors, especially in adolescent and young adult (AYA) subgroup. The objective of this study is to delineate survival and second primary malignancies (SPMs) in AYA patients with GCC.

METHODS

We used US population-based Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) 18 Regs Custom Data (1976-2016 varying) and SEER 9 Regs Research Data, November 2019 Sub (1975-2017) for survival analysis and SPM analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

Overall, 5-, 10- and 20-year overall survival rates for AYA patients with GCC were 93%, 91.3%, and 86.9%, respectively. Compared with the general population, a significantly higher risk of SPMs was observed in multiple sites, especially stomach, (standardized incidence ratio [SIR] = 2.94), pancreas (SIR = 3.72), intrahepatic bile duct (SIR = 3.12), soft tissue including heart (SIR = 4.65), leukemia (SIR = 3.70), and testis (SIR = 562.18). The excess risks to develop leukemia were even higher in those with primary mediastinal GCC (SIR = 69.50, P < 0.05, 95% confidence interval = 30.00-136.94). Multivariate analysis indicated age of diagnosis, primary site, race, receipt of radiotherapy, and histological subtype independently correlated with risk of SPMs.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides risk factors of SPM in AYA patients with GCC, which could facilitate the individualization of long-term surveillance in this population.

Long-term sexual functioning in germ-cell tumor survivors

BACKGROUND

Survivors of germ-cell tumors (GCT) may suffer from long-term adverse consequences. Our study was conducted to assess a long-term sexual functioning in GCT survivors.

METHODS

GCT survivors (N = 170) from the National Cancer Institute in Slovakia completed a Sexual Function Questionnaire that was modified from PROMIS Sexual Function and Satisfaction Questionnaire 9-year median follow up (range 5-32) as a primary exploratory aim. Study groups consisted of 17 survivors (10%) who had active surveillance (AS, controls), and 153 (90%) survivors who received treatment beyond orchiectomy (Tx), including cisplatin-based chemotherapy (CT, N = 132; 78%), radiotherapy to the retroperitoneal lymph nodes (RT, N = 12; 7%) or both (CTRT, N = 9; 5%).

RESULTS

In univariate analysis, treatment of any type resulted in difficulty to maintain erection during sexual intercourse compared to patients treated with AS (P = 0.04). Survivors who received CTRT had lower ability to achieve orgasm during sexual activities (P = 0.04) and they reported disappointment with their overall quality of sex life (P = 0.002). The number of attempts to initiate sexual intercourse did not differ. Sexual relationships caused none or mild anxiety and the desire to be sexually active was higher after CTRT (P = 0.05). Multivariable analysis confirmed that orgasmic dysfunction after ≥400 mg/m² of cisplatin and issues in maintaining erection after Tx were independent of retroperitoneal lymph-node dissection (P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively). Survivors were disappointed with the quality of sex life and had stronger desire to be sexually active independent of age, (P = 0.01 and P = 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified an impairment in sexual function may represent an issue for long-term GCT survivors. Treatment with chemotherapy plus radiotherapy were associated with disappointment and stronger sexual desire, while a higher cumulative dose of cisplatin may be responsible for orgasmic dysfunction.

Testicular Cancer, Version 2.2020, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon and accounts for <1% of all male tumors. However, it is the most common solid tumor in men between the ages of 20 and 34 years, and the global incidence has been steadily rising over the past several decades. Several risk factors for testicular cancer have been identified, including personal or family history of testicular cancer and cryptorchidism. Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) comprise 95% of malignant tumors arising in the testes and are categorized into 2 main histologic subtypes: seminoma and nonseminoma. Although nonseminoma is the more clinically aggressive tumor subtype, 5-year survival rates exceed 70% with current treatment options, even in patients with advanced or metastatic disease. Radical inguinal orchiectomy is the primary treatment for most patients with testicular GCTs. Postorchiectomy management is dictated by stage, histology, and risk classification; treatment options for nonseminoma include surveillance, systemic therapy, and nerve-sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. Although rarely occurring, prognosis for patients with brain metastases remains poor, with >50% of patients dying within 1 year of diagnosis. This selection from the NCCN Guidelines for Testicular Cancer focuses on recommendations for the management of adult patients with nonseminomatous GCTs.

Prognostic Role of Systemic Inflammatory Indexes in Germ Cell Tumors Treated With High-Dose Chemotherapy

High-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) has curative potential in relapsed/refractory germ cell tumors (GCT). Due to the complexity of this population and the toxicity of HDCT, we evaluated the association between blood-based systemic inflammatory indexes and the outcome of GCT patients undergoing salvage treatment with HDCT in order to define additional prognostic factors able to orient clinical decision. Baseline characteristics, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) of 62 patients undergoing HDCT for GCT were retrospectively collected. The aim is to evaluate the correlation between each inflammatory marker (NLR, PLR, and SII) and response to HDCT, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS). Using the receiver operating curve to identify the best cutoff values, it was found that patients with GCT with NLR ≥3.3 and SII ≥844,000 had shorter PFS and inferior OS. In the multivariable analysis including inflammatory markers, the International Prognostic Factor Study Group (IPFSG) risk group, age, and previous line of treatment, NLR ≥3.3 and SII ≥844,000 were identified to be independently associated with shorter PFS and OS. Moreover, NLR, PLR, and SII significantly correlate with overall response to HDCT. Associating IPFSG prognostic score to inflammatory markers at baseline of HDCT may improve prognostic information and could help physicians to make more personalized treatment decisions.

Improved outcomes in metastatic germ cell cancer: results from a large cohort study

Purpose

Treatment of metastatic germ cell cancer (GCC) is based on the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group (IGCCCG) prognostic classification published in 1997. 5-year survival rates were reported to be 91%, 79%, and 48% for patients with good, intermediate and poor prognosis, respectively. However, treatment results may have improved over time due to cumulative experience, improved supportive care and modern-type chemotherapy.

Methods

Patients with metastatic GCC who received cisplatin-based chemotherapy at two institutions in Munich between 2000 and 2013 were retrospectively studied. Clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes were analyzed with respect to the IGCCG prognostic classification.

Results

Of 225 patients (median age 35 years), 72 (32%) had seminoma (S) and 153 (68%) nonseminoma. 175 (78%), 30 (13%) and 20 patients (9%) had good, intermediate and poor prognosis according to the IGCCCG classification. The 2-year-progression free survival of patients with good, intermediate and poor prognosis was 91%, 83% and 37%, and the 5-year-overall survival (OS) was 98%, 96%, and 66%, respectively. There was no significant difference in the OS between patients in the good and intermediate prognosis group.

Conclusion

Compared to data from the original IGCCCG classification system, the outcome of patients with metastatic GCC has considerably improved over time. While the prognosis of intermediate-risk patients is excellent, treatment in the poor-prognosis group remains to be improved.

Germ Cell Tumors in Adolescents and Young Adults

Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are rare in childhood, representing only 3.5% of childhood cancers, but a common malignancy in adolescents and young adults (AYAs), accounting for 13.9% of neoplasms in adolescents between age 15 and 19 years. The overall outcomes of patients treated for GCTs are excellent. However, as seen in other cancers, outcomes for AYA patients are significantly worse. Understanding the reasons for this observation has led to different approaches to diagnosis, staging, and treatment. The Malignant Germ Cell International Consortium was created to bring together pediatric, gynecologic, and testicular cancer specialists to promote research initiatives and provide evidence-based approaches in the management of GCTs across different age groups. Collaboration between multiple subspecialties is essential to further understand the disease continuum, the underlying biologic characteristics, and the development of appropriate therapeutic approaches. This review focuses on the unique characteristics of patients with extracranial GCTs in the AYA group.

[Treatment of testicular germ cell tumors relapse]

Seminomatous (SGCT) and non-seminomatous (NSGCT) germ cell tumors (GCT) are rare but their incidence are increasing. We will discuss different therapeutic strategies in relapse disease: patients with stage I germ cell tumor have an excellent prognosis with a cure rate approaching 98-99 %, whatever the histology and the chosen treatment (surveillance strategy or adjuvant treatment). Relapses are observed among 20% of patients with stage I SGCT or low risk NSGCT and 50 % of patients with high risk NSGCT. Patients are treated according to the international prognosis group (IGCCCG) for SGCT and low risk NSGCT, naïve of chemotherapy. After an adjuvant treatment, the protocol must be adapted to the number of previous cycles (1 or 2 BEP) and to the prognosis group. Five to 50% of patients relapse after a first line of metastatic chemotherapy according to initial prognosis group. Dose-dense chemotherapy according to the GETUG13 protocol reduces the risk of relapse for the patients with poor-risk group NSGCT and unfavorable tumor marker decline. The prognosis of patients with relapsed or refractory GCT after a first line is more negative since only half of them will be cured by salvage standard chemotherapy. An international therapeutic trial (TIGER) is ongoing in first line salvage treatment evaluating high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Finally, developing biomarkers for predicting clinical relapse, the management in expert centers of these patients and participation in therapeutic innovation are important perspectives for a better understanding and treatment of these patients with a poorer prognosis.

Testicular cancer: Determinants of cisplatin sensitivity and novel therapeutic opportunities

Testicular cancer (TC) is the most common solid tumor among men aged between 15 and 40 years. TCs are highly aneuploid and the 12p isochromosome is the most frequent chromosomal abnormality. The mutation rate is of TC is low, with recurrent mutations in KIT and KRAS observed only at low frequency in seminomas. Overall cure rates are high, even in a metastatic setting, resulting from excellent cisplatin sensitivity of TCs. Factors contributing to the observed cisplatin sensitivity include defective DNA damage repair and a hypersensitive apoptotic response to DNA damage. Nonetheless, around 10-20% of TC patients with metastatic disease cannot be cured by cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Resistance mechanisms include downregulation of OCT4 and failure to induce PUMA and NOXA, elevated levels of MDM2, and hyperactivity of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Several pre-clinical approaches have proven successful in overcoming cisplatin resistance, including specific targeting of PARP, MDM2 or AKT/mTOR combined with cisplatin. Finally, patient-derived xenograft models hold potential for mechanistic studies and pre-clinical validation of novel therapeutic strategies in TC. While clinical trials investigating targeted drugs have been disappointing, pre-clinical successes with chemotherapy and targeted drug combinations fuel the need for further investigation in clinical setting.

Cisplatin, Gemcitabine, and Paclitaxel as a Salvage Second-Line Therapy for Metastatic Germ-Cell Cancer

BACKGROUND

Second-line salvage therapy for patients with metastatic germ-cell cancer (GCC) after the first-line combination of VIP (etoposide, ifosfamide, cisplatin) therapy has not been established. This study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of the TGP (paclitaxel, gemcitabine, cisplatin) combination chemotherapy as a second-line salvage therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The medical records of 16 consecutive patients with metastatic GCC who had been treated with first-line VIP therapy followed by second-line TGP therapy between 2005 and 2019 were reviewed and statistically analyzed. Ten patients, excluding the 6 patients treated with TGP without unequivocal progression, were included in the efficacy analysis. All 16 patients were included in the safety analysis.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period from initial TGP administration was 78 months (interquartile range, 46-120 months). The estimated 5-year progression-free and overall survival rates for the 10 patients in the efficacy analysis were 70% and 100%, respectively. Grade 3/4 hematologic toxicity occurred in all 16 patients, but none developed uncontrollable infections or life-threatening bleeding. One patient died of treatment-related secondary leukemia, however.

CONCLUSION

The present study is to our knowledge the first to examine the therapeutic outcomes and safety profile of second-line TGP chemotherapy. VIP followed by TGP might be an alternative first- and second-line conventional regimen for patients with metastatic GCC in this granulocyte colony-stimulating factor era, especially for patients at a high risk of bleomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity.

Administration sequence for multi-agent oncolytic regimens

Purpose

The existence of a multitude of oncolytics regimens containing two or more agents (combination) outlines the need to define their most adequate sequence of administration. However, limited resources are currently available to specify a particular sequence, presenting challenges potentially impacting on patient safety, and Pharmacy & Infusion Nursing workflows.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed leading to the compilation of a document containing drug administration sequencing instructions for our Nursing, Pharmacy, and Oncology providers to follow. Regimens prioritized in our literature review represented regimens selected as part of our approved Clinical Pathways, regimens inquiries from Pharmacy or Nursing, as well as less frequently used regimens. We stratified the regimens by tumor type and arranged them alphabetically by indication.

Results

A table was compiled containing all the supporting literature for the recommended drug administration sequences. If, in certain instances, no literature support was identified outlining rationale such as enhanced management of adverse effects, a specific institutional decision was made by our enterprise Medical Oncology Committee with recommendations from Pharmacy experts. The primary guiding principles for outlining our recommendations were the following: administration of vesicant agents first; administration of biologic agents first; administration of taxanes prior to platinum agents; and duration of infusion (shorter infusions prioritized).

Conclusion

This guideline is not exhaustive. The compilation provided here is intended to be utilized as guidance for oncolytics administration sequence. We will continue to review and incorporate treatment sequencing recommendations for additional regimens.

Wise Management of Ovarian Cancer: On the Cutting Edge

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality among women. Two-thirds of patients present at advanced stage at diagnosis, and the estimated 5 year survival rate is 20-40%. This heterogeneous group of malignancies has distinguishable etiology and molecular biology. Initially, single-gene sequencing was performed to identify germline DNA variations associated with EOC. However, hereditary EOC syndrome can be explained by germline pathogenic variants (gPVs) in several genes. In this regard, next-generation sequencing (NGS) changed clinical diagnostic testing, allowing assessment of multiple genes simultaneously in a faster and cheaper manner than sequential single gene analysis. As we move into the era of personalized medicine, there is evidence that poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors exploit homologous recombination (HR) deficiency, especially in breast cancer gene 1 and 2 (BRCA1/2) mutation carriers. Furthermore, extensive preclinical data supported the development of aurora kinase (AURK) inhibitors in specific tumor types, including EOC. Their efficacy may be optimized in combination with chemotherapeutic or other molecular agents. The efficacy of metformin in ovarian cancer prevention is under investigation. Certain mutations, such as ARID1A mutations, and alterations in the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTOR pathway, which are specific in ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) and endometrioid ovarian carcinoma (EnOC), may offer additional therapeutic targets in these clinical entities. Malignant ovarian germ cell tumors (MOGCTs) are rare and randomized trials are extremely challenging for the improvement of the existing management and development of novel strategies. This review attempts to offer an overview of the main aspects of ovarian cancer, catapulted from the molecular mechanisms to therapeutic considerations.

Management of Late Relapses After Chemotherapy in Testicular Cancer: Optimal Outcomes with Dose-intense Salvage Chemotherapy and Surgery

BACKGROUND

Late relapse (LR) in testicular cancer is defined as disease recurrence more than 2yr after primary treatment. Optimal management for this rare group is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To identify prognostic factors relevant to outcomes in a large LR series following primary treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients treated for advanced testicular cancer within the Anglian Germ Cell Cancer Network between 1995 and 2016. We identified 53 cases of LR following initial treatment for metastatic disease with platinum-based chemotherapy, and collected data on patient and tumour characteristics, treatments, and outcomes.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated for all patients. Survival curves were plotted according to the Kaplan-Meier method and univariate analysis of descriptive variables was performed using the log-rank method.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Across the cohort, PFS at 36 mo was 41% and OS was 61%. Multiple factors were correlated with PFS. Use of dose-intense or high-dose chemotherapy was associated with better PFS compared to conventional-dose chemotherapy (PFS 48 vs 9.8 mo; p=0.0036). Resection of residual disease post-relapse chemotherapy was associated with better PFS (hazard ratio 3.46; p=0.0076). There was a nonsignificant trend towards worse PFS in very late (>7 yr) relapses. The study is limited by its retrospective nature and selection bias cannot be excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides new insight into prognostic factors in LR. It confirms that surgery is critical to optimal outcomes, and suggests that dose-intense or high-dose chemotherapy in multisite nonresectable disease should be considered wherever feasible.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We studied patients with testicular cancer that recurred at least 2yr after initial treatment with chemotherapy. We found that patients who are able to have surgery to remove cancer and who have more intensive chemotherapy may be more likely to live longer.

Adjuvant Chemotherapy With Etoposide Plus Cisplatin for Patients With Pathologic Stage II Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors

PURPOSE

The relapse rate after primary retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) for patients with pathologic stage (PS) IIA nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCTs) is 10%-20% but increases to ≥ 50% for PS IIB disease. We report our experience with 2 cycles of adjuvant etoposide plus cisplatin (EP×2) after therapeutic primary RPLND.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients with PS II NSGCT seen at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center from March 1989 to April 2016 and who were planned to receive EP×2 were included. Each cycle consisted of cisplatin 20 mg/m2 and etoposide 100 mg/m2 on days 1 through 5 at 21-day intervals. Demographic characteristics, histopathologic features, therapeutic and survival outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Of 156 patients, 30 (19%) had pathologic N1, 122 (78%) had pathologic N2 (pN2), and 4 (3%) had pathologic N3 (pN3) disease. The median number of involved lymph nodes was 3 (range, 1-37 nodes), and the median size of the largest involved node was 2.0 cm (range, 0.4-7.0 cm); extranodal extension was present in 69 patients (45%). Embryonal carcinoma was the most frequent RPLND histology, present in 143 patients (92%). One hundred fifty patients (96%) received EP×2, five received EP×1 and one received EP×4. With a median follow-up of 9 years, 2 patients (1.3%; 1 patient each with pN2 and pN3 disease) experienced relapse; both patients remain continuously disease free at more than 5 and 22 years after salvage chemotherapy. Three patients died, all unrelated to NSGCT, yielding 10-year disease-specific, relapse-free, and overall survival rates of 100%, 98%, and 99%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant EP×2 for PS II NSGCT is highly effective, has acceptable toxicity, and incurs less drug cost than 2 cycles of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin. Inclusion of bleomycin in this setting is not necessary.

A promising treatment option for refractory male primary choriocarcinoma: report of two cases

Male primary choriocarcinoma is a rare and invasive malignant neoplasm for which traditional chemotherapy has limited efficacy. Pembrolizumab is a humanized monoclonal anti-programmed death-1 antibody that has antitumor activity in numerous malignancies. The diagnosis and treatment of two cases of advanced male primary choriocarcinoma were retrospectively analyzed and relevant literature was reviewed to discuss the prognosis and the efficacy of different treatments, including pembrolizumab. The first patient, who presented with cough and hemoptysis, was diagnosed with primary mediastinal choriocarcinoma. He initially responded to the first-line chemotherapy of etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide and vincristine, but eventually developed brain metastases. The patient did not respond to the second-line chemotherapy comprising paclitaxel and cisplatin, and he died 6.5 months after diagnosis. The second patient experienced repeated episodes of abdominal pain and was diagnosed with primary neck choriocarcinoma. He received chemotherapy regimens similar to those of the first patient. However, imaging showed no significant changes and his clinical symptoms were not improved. Immunohistochemistry showed that the expression of programmed death ligand 1 on the tumor cells was 40%, and he was administered pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy. He achieved complete response and was subsequently switched to pembrolizumab maintenance monotherapy. He is still alive without evidence of disease 36 months after diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is the first case of advanced male primary choriocarcinoma successfully treated with pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy. Advanced male primary choriocarcinoma is highly aggressive and insensitive to chemotherapy. Pembrolizumab may provide a promising treatment option to improve patient outcomes.

Predictors of venous thromboembolism development before and during chemotherapy for advanced germ cell tumor

OBJECTIVE

We retrospectively analyzed the incidence and localization of venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing chemotherapy for advanced germ cell tumor and separately evaluated the risk factors for venous thromboembolism development before and during chemotherapy.

METHODS

We included 121 patients treated with cisplatin-based chemotherapy between 2005 and 2018. Venous thromboembolism was defined as venous thrombosis diagnosed using radiological imaging with or without thromboembolic symptoms. We analyzed the clinical parameters for identifying the possible venous thromboembolism risk factors. Khorana score was used to calculate the venous thromboembolism risk.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients showed prechemotherapy venous thromboembolism and 13 developed venous thromboembolism during chemotherapy. The most common venous thromboembolism was deep vein thrombosis (10 patients), followed by inferior vena cava thrombus (eight patients) and pulmonary thrombus (six patients). Compared to the group without venous thromboembolism, the group with prechemotherapy venous thromboembolism showed higher proportion of patients with tumors originating in the right testis (10 out of 13), significantly higher lactate dehydrogenase levels (828 IU/L versus 436 IU/L, P = 0.013), significantly higher proportion of patients with retroperitoneal lymph node (RPLN) metastases >5 cm in diameter (76.9% versus 33.7%, P = 0.003) and slightly higher proportion of patients with high-risk Khorana score (≥ 3; 30.8% versus 11.6%). No significant differences were observed between the clinical characteristics of patients with venous thromboembolism developed during chemotherapy and patients without venous thromboembolism.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that both RPLN mass > 5 cm and high lactate dehydrogenase levels are significant risk factors for prechemotherapy venous thromboembolism but not for venous thromboembolism development during chemotherapy.

Taxanes – The Backbone of Medical Oncology

Drug development in oncology has witnessed a revolutionary growth from its humble beginning with nitrogen mustard in 1940 to immunotherapy in 1986 (Interferon alpha). The arsenal of cytotoxics is ever increasing, contributing to better survival outcomes and improved quality of life. Over the years, many cytotoxics have fallen out of favor too, due to its side effects and availability of drugs with better efficacy and toxicity profile. Taxane, a microtubule stabilizing agent extracted from the poisonous Yew tree, was discovered in 1964 and came into clinical use in 1992 with its approval for ovarian cancer. This group has grown into a cornerstone of many treatment protocols, spanning multiple tumor types. This review discusses in brief the salient features of cytotoxic agents in this drug group, its history, physico-chemical properties, mechanism of action, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics. Though the benefits of taxanes are well understood, there are unique problems associated with the use of taxanes and there is an expanding literature on taxane resistance. We briefly look at the resistance mechanisms. There have been significant efforts to circumvent the problems related to conventional taxanes, with an attempt at creating newer carrier molecules and adjunct drugs with taxanes, which is slowly gaining traction in clinical practice.

Testicular Metastasis from Urothelial Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis: A Rare Case and Review of the Literature

This paper presents an extremely rare case of testicular metastasis arising from renal pelvis carcinoma. The testicle is a rare site of clinically detectable tumor metastasis, originating rarely from upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). There are only two cases concerning UTUC metastasis to the testis available in the literature. In this report, we presented a patient who developed serial testicle, lung, liver and retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis from primary urothelial carcinoma of the renal pelvis within one year after surgery and chemotherapy. In conclusion, for patients with a history of UTUC who present with testicular symptoms, clinicians should be highly alert for the possibility of malignant involvement at this site.

Current management and management controversies in early- and intermediate-stage of nonseminoma germ cell tumors

Early stage nonseminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) remains a treatable disease, with stage I cancer specific survival exceeding 95%. Using a risk-adapted approach; active surveillance (AS), adjuvant chemotherapy, and retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) all options for treatment; with surveillance being increasingly used. With persistently elevated markers (stage IS), chemotherapy remains the hallmark of treatment. Management of stage II NSGCT varies based on status of tumor markers. With negative markers, both induction chemotherapy and upfront RPLND remain options. Management of a residual mass <1 cm after chemotherapy remains controversial, with AS and nerve-sparing RPLND considered options. The development of miR-371a-3p microRNA shows promise a novel biomarker for testicular cancer (GCT). Despite controversies in management, cures for NSGCT are achievable in 95-99% of patients.

ESMO Consensus Conference on testicular germ cell cancer: diagnosis, treatment and follow-up

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) consensus conference on testicular cancer was held on 3-5 November 2016 in Paris, France. The conference included a multidisciplinary panel of 36 leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular cancer (34 panel members attended the conference; an additional two panel members [CB and K-PD] participated in all preparatory work and subsequent manuscript development). The aim of the conference was to develop detailed recommendations on topics relating to testicular cancer that are not covered in detail in the current ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) and where the available level of evidence is insufficient. The main topics identified for discussion related to: (1) diagnostic work-up and patient assessment; (2) stage I disease; (3) stage II-III disease; (4) post-chemotherapy surgery, salvage chemotherapy, salvage and desperation surgery and special topics; and (5) survivorship and follow-up schemes. The experts addressed questions relating to one of the five topics within five working groups. Relevant scientific literature was reviewed in advance. Recommendations were developed by the working groups and then presented to the entire panel. A consensus vote was obtained following whole-panel discussions, and the consensus recommendations were then further developed in post-meeting discussions in written form. This manuscript presents the results of the expert panel discussions, including the consensus recommendations and a summary of evidence supporting each recommendation. All participants approved the final manuscript.

Less nephrotoxicity of paclitaxel and ifosfamide plus nedaplatin for refractory or relapsed germ cell tumors in patients with impaired renal function

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety and efficacy of the combined regimen of paclitaxel and ifosfamide plus nedaplatin for patients with refractory or relapsed germ cell tumors and impaired renal function.

METHODS

Of a total of 68 patients who received paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin chemotherapy for germ cell tumors, those with an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m² before paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin treatment were defined as having renal dysfunction. The combination chemotherapy regimen included paclitaxel (210 mg/m² on day 1) and ifosfamide (1.2 g/m² on days 2-6) with nedaplatin (100 mg/m² on day 2) on a 3-week cycle.

RESULTS

A total of 10 patients had renal dysfunction with a median estimated glomerular filtration rate of 49.97 mg/mL/1.73 m² (range 31.7-57.5 mg/mL/1.73 m² ). Paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin chemotherapy was given as second-line therapy in four patients, third-line in four and fourth-line or later in two. Patients with impaired renal function received pretreatment of a median of 5.5 cycles of platinum-based chemotherapy (range 3-11 cycles) with a median cisplatin dose of 550 mg/m² . The patients were given two to six cycles of paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin chemotherapy with no dose reduction, with an overall response rate of 60%. Chemotherapy-induced kidney dysfunction was not observed in any patient with decreased renal function. Furthermore, there was no difference in the frequency of adverse events between patients with renal dysfunction (estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m² ) and those with normal renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m² ).

CONCLUSIONS

Paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin chemotherapy can be considered a safe and effective regimen that results in less nephrotoxicity in germ cell tumor patients with renal dysfunction.

Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia, Version 2.2019, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), a subset of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), occurs when tumors develop in the cells that would normally form the placenta during pregnancy. The NCCN Guidelines for Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia provides treatment recommendations for various types of GTD including hydatidiform mole, persistent post-molar GTN, low-risk GTN, high-risk GTN, and intermediate trophoblastic tumor.

Liquid biopsy in germ cell tumors: biology and clinical management

Introduction: Liquid biopsy is an increasingly studied approach for optimal and minimally invasive diagnostics of malignant tumors. The aim of this review is to provide evidence and discuss the utility of liquid biopsy in the management of germ cell tumors (GCTs).Areas covered: Herein, we summarize the evidence on liquid biopsy in GCTs including serum tumor markers, circulating tumor cells, microRNA and cell-free DNA. The search of literature was conducted from Pubmed/Medline, ASCO-meeting library searching for terms 'liquid biopsy', 'germ cell tumors', 'circulating tumor cells', 'microRNA', 'cell-free DNA'. Obtained original studies were included. Reference lists of review articles and key original articles were searched for additional original studies. We included articles published between1990 and 2019.Expert opinion: Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive tool using body fluids for diagnostic purposes in cancer. The established value of serum tumor markers may be already considered a liquid biopsy technique in diagnosis of GCTs. Possible near-future refinements in diagnosis of GCTs are emerging. Further information on diagnosis, prognosis and resistance is added with recently described microRNAs, circulating tumor cells and cell-free DNA. While great promise is shown, further large-scale validation is needed to incorporate these novel liquid biopsies into clinical practice.

Therapeutic Challenges for Cisplatin-Resistant Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors

The majority of patients with advanced ovarian germ cell cancer are treated by cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Despite adequate first-line treatment, nearly one third of patients relapse and almost half develop cisplatin-resistant disease, which is often fatal. The treatment of cisplatin-resistant disease is challenging and prognosis remains poor. There are limited data on the efficacy of specific chemotherapeutic regimens, high-dose chemotherapy with autologous progenitor cell support and targeted therapies. The inclusion of patients in clinical trials is strongly recommended, especially in clinical trials on the most frequent male germ cell tumors, to offer wider therapeutic opportunities. Here, we provide an overview of current and potential new treatment options including combination chemotherapy, high-dose chemotherapy and molecular targeted therapies, for patients with cisplatin-resistant ovarian germ cell tumors.

Management of Stage II Germ Cell Tumors

There are several treatment approaches for stage II germ cell tumors (GCTs), and a thorough understanding of the staging classification and histologic differences in tumor biology and therapeutic responsiveness is critical to determine an effective, multimodal management strategy that involves urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. This article discusses contemporary management strategies for stage II GCTs, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND), and surveillance. Patient selection, histology, and extent of lymphadenopathy drive management, and, as both treatment and detection strategies continue to emerge and be refined, the management of patients with stage II GCT continues to evolve.

A case of malignant rhabdoid tumor mimicking yolk sac tumor

Malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRTs) are rare, highly aggressive embryonal neoplasms caused by biallelic alterations of the SMARCB1 gene. MRTs may occur in any soft tissue, but extracranial extrarenal MRTs are extremely rare. Diagnosis of MRTs in unusual locations and with an uncharacteristic cytomorphology that mimics other tumors is difficult. This was an atypical case of MRT in a 15-year-old female with tumors that closely resembled yolk sac tumors. It was extremely challenging to diagnose the tumors without confirming the SMARCB1 status.

Immune mechanisms and possible immune therapy in testicular germ cell tumours

BACKGROUND

Testicular germ cell tumours (GCTs) are the only universally curable solid malignancy. The long-term cure rate of >95% is attributed to the extraordinary sensitivity to cisplatin-based treatment but a proportion of patients die due to a progression of the chemotherapy-refractory disease. While treatment of a variety of solid cancers was significantly improved with recent immune therapies, the immunology and immunotherapy remained underinvestigated in GCTs.

OBJECTIVES

In this narrative review, we summarize evidence about immune-related mechanisms and possible immune therapies in GCTs and provide insights and implications for future research and clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE to identify original and review articles reporting on immune mechanisms and immunotherapy in GCTs. Review articles were further searched for additional original articles.

RESULTS

Clear link of immune surveillance and the presence of GCT have been identified with several novel immune-related prognostic biomarkers published recently. Several case reports, case series, and preliminary results from phase I-II studies are emerging to report on the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors.

DISCUSSION

Newly discovered immune biomarkers provide an evidence supporting the role of immune environment in the GCT biology. While these discoveries provide only an initial insight into the immunobiology, strong correlation with prognosis is evident. This provided a premise to investigate the treatment efficacy of novel immunotherapy. Some efficacy of these treatments has been reported in clinical setting; however, the results of published studies with immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy seem to be disappointing.

CONCLUSION

Immune-related mechanisms and efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in GCTs should be further investigated in preclinical and clinical studies.

Phase II study of avelumab in multiple relapsed/refractory germ cell cancer

Background Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are highly curable diseases; however, not all patients can be cured. Patients in their second relapse have especially poor prognoses. PD-L1 expression is significantly higher in GCTs than in normal testicular tissue, and high PD-L1 expression is associated with a poor prognosis. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of avelumab, a PD-L1 inhibitor, in patients with GCTs. Methods In this phase 2 study, patients with multiple relapsed and/or refractory GCTs were treated with avelumab at a dose of 10 mg/kg administered biweekly until progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was 12-week progression-free survival (PFS). Fifteen evaluable patients had to be enrolled in the first cohort, and if <8 of 15 patients had 12-week PFS, the study was to be terminated. Here, we report the results of the first stage of the trial. Results From November 2017 to January 2018, 8 patients with a median age of 29 years (range, 22 to 52 months) were enrolled. Patients were pretreated with a median of 5 (range, 1 to 6) previous lines of platinum-based therapies; 5 tumors (62.5%) were absolutely refractory to cisplatin, and 5 patients (62.5%) had visceral nonpulmonary metastases. At a median follow-up period of 2.6 months (range, 0.3 to 14.4), all the patients experienced disease progression, and 7 patients (87.5%) died. The twelve-week PFS was 0%, median PFS was 0.9 months (95% CI 0.5-1.9), and median OS was 2.7 months (95% CI 1.0-3.3). Avelumab was well tolerated, and no severe adverse events were observed. Conclusions This study failed to achieve its primary endpoint. Our data suggest a lack of avelumab efficacy in unselected multiple relapsed/refractory GCTs.

Cyclophosphamide and isophosphamide - DFT conformational studies in the gas phase and solution

Cyclophosphamide and isophosphamide have been subjected to comprehensive conformational studies in the vacuum and solution using the SMD solvation model. Vacuum calculations were conducted using the B3LYP, M05-2X, M06-2X and ωB97XD functionals. Natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis has been performed for selected geometries. A preference for a chair conformation with the axial P=O bond is shown (¹C₄). The ⁵S₀ conformation is 1.25-2.31 kcal/mol and 1.72-2.92 kcal/mol higher in energy than the global minimum conformations of cyclophosphamide and isophosphamide, respectively. In the gas phase, the chair conformation with the equatorial P=O bond (⁴C₁) is of comparable stability or less stable than the skew form, depending on the method used, while it is slightly more favored than the ⁵S₀ conformation in solution. The stereoelectronic effects do not differentiate the ring conformer stability. The steric strains between N(EtCl)_1-2 and the C4 and C6 carbon atoms mainly influence the stability of cyclophosphamide and isophosphamide conformers.

Managing seminomatous and nonseminomatous germ cell tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In the present review, we summarize the recent developments in the management of germ cell tumors (GCTs).

RECENT FINDINGS

Treatment-related acute and late-onset toxicity remains a key challenge in the management of GCTs, with recent evidence showing that the adverse health outcomes of etoposide and cisplatin for four cycles in comparison to bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin for three cycles appear to be similar. Recent data showed that multidisciplinary clinic approach and management in experienced academic centers were associated with improved overall survival in GCT patients. There are currently multiple conventional-dose chemotherapy options for salvage therapy in patients with refractory or recurrent disease. In addition, more efficacious high-dose chemotherapy regimens continue to be developed. The role of salvage conventional-dose chemotherapy versus high-dose chemotherapy is currently being investigated prospectively. Recent reports suggested that brentuximab vedotin could be a potential salvage option for cluster of differentiation 30 positive refractory GCTs. On the other hand the results of the first phase II clinical trial investigating pembrolizumab in refractory GCTs were disappointing showing no clinical activity.Finally, deep exploration of the immune profile of GCTs using immunohistochemistry and gene expression profiling has identified that advanced GCT stage was associated with decreased T-cell and Natural killer-cell signatures, whereas T regulatory, neutrophil, mast cell, and macrophage signatures increased with advanced stage. Even though these results indicated that activated T-cell infiltration correlated with seminoma histology and good prognosis, and could be used in the future as a biomarker, this approach needs to be validated in a large cohort.

SUMMARY

Remaining challenges to be addressed include minimizing therapeutic toxicity, and improving outcomes in patients with refractory/recurrent GCTs.

Multidisciplinary clinic approach improves overall survival outcomes of patients with metastatic germ-cell tumors

Background

To report our experience utilizing a multidisciplinary clinic (MDC) at Indiana University (IU) since the publication of the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group (IGCCCG), and to compare our overall survival (OS) to that of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program.

Patients and methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients with metastatic germ-cell tumor (GCT) seen at IU from 1998 to 2014. A total of 1611 consecutive patients were identified, of whom 704 patients received an initial evaluation by our MDC (including medical oncology, pathology, urology and thoracic surgery) and started first-line chemotherapy at IU. These 704 patients were eligible for analysis. All patients in this cohort were treated with cisplatin-etoposide-based combination chemotherapy. We compared the progression-free survival (PFS) and OS of patients treated at IU with that of the published IGCCCG cohort. OS of the IU testis cancer primary cohort (n = 622) was further compared with the SEER data of 1283 patients labeled with 'distant' disease. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate PFS and OS.

Results

With a median follow-up of 4.4 years, patients with good, intermediate, and poor risk disease by IGCCCG criteria treated at IU had 5-year PFS of 90%, 84%, and 54% and 5-year OS of 97%, 92%, and 73%, respectively. The 5-year PFS for all patients in the IU cohort was 79% [95% confidence interval (CI) 76% to 82%]. The 5-year OS for the IU cohort was 90% (95% CI 87% to 92%). IU testis cohort had 5-year OS 94% (95% CI 91% to 96%) versus 75% (95% CI 73% to 78%) for the SEER 'distant' cohort between 2000 and 2014, P-value <0.0001.

Conclusion

The MDC approach to GCT at high-volume cancer center associated with improved OS outcomes in this contemporary dataset. OS is significantly higher in the IU cohort compared with the IGCCCG and SEER 'distant' cohort.

Current pharmacotherapy for testicular germ cell cancer

INTRODUCTION

With the implementation of platinum-based chemotherapy, germ cell tumors (GCTs) became a model for a curable solid tumor, with survival rates of 95% in all patients with >80% survival in metastatic stages.

AREAS COVERED

Herein, the authors review the current standards of adjuvant chemotherapy for stage I GCTs as well as first-line and salvage treatments for metastatic disease. Novel approaches for refractory disease are also reviewed.

EXPERT OPINION

Active surveillance should be considered for all stage I patients and is the preferred approach for stage I seminoma. In stage I non-seminomas with vascular invasion, one cycle of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) substantially reduces the relapse risk. For most advanced GCTs, BEP remains the first-line standard of care. For poor prognosis disease treatment, stratification according to tumor marker decline is recommended. The role of primary high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) for selected very high-risk patients remains to be prospectively evaluated. Salvage HDCT at relapse seems superior to conventional chemotherapy, retrospectively. The treatment of multiply relapsed disease remains challenging. The gemcitabine/oxaliplatin/paclitaxel (GOP) protocol is considered the standard for refractory disease. However, overall, outcomes are poor and new treatment approaches are urgently needed with targeted therapies so far failing to yield relevant clinical activity.

Palonosetron on Days 1 and 5 Versus Granisetron Daily (Days 1-5) in Germ Cell Tumour Therapy

BACKGROUND/AIM

The control of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting during bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) treatment is important for maintaining treatment intensity. The effects of palonosetron and granisetron were compared in BEP chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The administration of palonosetron on days 1 and 5 (Pal method) and granisetron daily (days 1-5, Gra method) were compared in terms of their efficacy and cost-effectiveness.

RESULTS

Additional rescue antiemetic agents were used in 15 of 32 and 30 of 30 cycles in the Pal and Gra method groups, respectively (p<0.05). The complete response rate, defined as no vomiting and no rescue agent usage, in each cycle, was 50% and 0% in the Pal and Gra method groups, respectively (p<0.05). The average cost of antiemetic agents in a cycle was 50,759 and 54,555 yen in the Pal and Gra method groups, respectively (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The Pal method may be the standard method in BEP.

Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Male Germ Cell Tumors: Improved Outcomes Over 3 Decades

The curative potential of autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (autoHCT) for male germ cell tumors (GCTs) is well established. The optimal timing and number (single transplant [ST] versus tandem transplants [TT] versus triple transplants) of autoHCT are controversial, with wide practice variations. We examined survival trends among 2395 recipients of autoHCT for male GCTs between 1990 and 2015 reported to the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research. Trends and outcomes were analyzed by year of transplantation for intervals 1990 to 1994 (N = 288), 1995 to 1999 (N = 351), 2000 to 2004 (N = 376), 2005 to 2009 (N = 509), and 2010 to 2015 (N = 871). Multivariate analysis was restricted to the subset from 2000 to 2015 with research-level data (n = 267). The median duration of follow-up was 51 months. The median age at autoHCT was 31 years; 633 patients (26%) had primary extragonadal GCT, and 1167 (49%) underwent TT. The 3-year progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) improved from 24% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18% to 31%) and 35% (95% CI, 29% to 40%), respectively, in 1990 to 1994 to 47% (95% CI, 43% to 50%) and 54% (95% CI, 50% to 57%), respectively, in 2010 to 2015 (P < .0001). TT recipients were more likely than ST recipients to undergo autoHCT as first salvage treatment. The proportion of TTs increased from 38% of all autoHCTs in 2000 to 2004 to 77% in 2010 to 2015. Nonseminoma histology, residual disease at autoHCT, >1 line of pretransplantation chemotherapy, and ST versus TT were associated with inferior PFS and OS. Post-transplantation survival has improved significantly over time for relapsed/refractory male GCT and is associated with the increased use of TTs (compared with STs) and performance of autoHCT earlier in the disease course.

Implementation of a pharmacy-managed program for the transition of chemotherapy to the outpatient setting

PURPOSE

Implementation of a pharmacy-managed program for the transition of chemotherapy to the outpatient setting is described.

SUMMARY

The University of Arizona Cancer Center and Banner-University Medical Center Tucson are affiliated not-for-profit academic medical centers in Tucson, Arizona, whose facilities include a hospital and ambulatory care clinics that maintain 3 outpatient infusion centers. The cancer center pharmacy currently employs 25 pharmacists, with 4 clinical pharmacists serving both the inpatient and outpatient treatment sites. A multidisciplinary team of staff members was assembled to address the transition of chemotherapy from inpatient to outpatient that included physicians, ambulatory clinical oncology pharmacists, finance, social workers, pharmacy staff, nursing staff, and information technology. The program was initiated in May 2014, with a 2-year postimplementation evaluation of our transition of chemotherapy to the outpatient setting. Chemotherapy order sets were developed in our electronic medical record for transitioning rituximab to the outpatient setting for inpatient chemotherapy orders as well as transitioning leukemia, lymphoma, and solid tumor chemotherapy regimens to be administered in the outpatient setting. Eighteen rituximab-containing regimens and 14 chemotherapy protocols were switched to the outpatient setting, with numerous variants of these regimens also created for outpatient only administration. The realized savings for high-cost chemotherapy transitioned to the outpatient setting with rituximab and clofarabine was $1,902,890. Over 747 inpatient bed days were saved, with an approximated cost savings to the health system of $1,402,866, with a cumulative cost savings to our health system of $3,305,756.

CONCLUSION

This model for transitioning chemotherapy from the hospital to the outpatient setting enhanced access to care, decreased bed utilization in the hospital, and improved clinical and financial metrics.

Caregiver Emotional Burden in Testicular Cancer Patients: From Patient to Caregiver Support

Testicular cancer is the most common tumor in young males aged 15-40 years. The overall cure rate for men with testicular cancer is >90%, so a huge number of these patients will become testicular cancer survivors. These people may feel some stress in the experience of diagnosis, treatment, and consequences that affects the quality of life, and during follow-up, especially when new issues and emotional distresses appear over time, such as late side-effects of treatments and emotional challenges including fear of tumor relapse, fertility and sexuality concerns, and social and workplace issues. The cancer experience has an impact not only on patients, but also on their relatives (e.g., spouses, parents, or siblings), who often have to assume a caregiving role for the duration of and following treatment for cancer. Moreover, the caregiver plays an important role in supporting a man with a testicular cancer, providing physical and emotional care. This review presents a summary of existing knowledge regarding the impact and the burden of testicular cancer on caregivers.

Salvage Chemotherapy With Gemcitabine, Paclitaxel, Ifosfamide, and Cisplatin for Relapsed Germ Cell Cancer

BACKGROUND

Metastatic germ cell tumors remain potentially curable when treated with salvage chemotherapy at first relapse. In the present phase I/II study, we sought to improve on the response rate and duration of the TIP (paclitaxel, ifosfamide, cisplatin) regimen by adding gemcitabine (Gem-TIP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients were recruited after failure of first-line cisplatin-containing chemotherapy. The primary objectives were to determine the maximum tolerated dose of gemcitabine when combined with TIP and to establish the dose intensity of the TIP drugs in this combination. The secondary objectives were the response rates, failure-free survival, and overall survival.

RESULTS

The maximum tolerated dose of gemcitabine was 1200 mg/m2. The mean relative dose intensity was 95% (95% confidence interval [CI], 90.2%-99.2%) for gemcitabine, 96% (95% CI, 92.9%-98.7%) for paclitaxel, 92% (95% CI, 84.5%-98.8%) for ifosfamide, and 94% (95% CI, 89.3%-99.0%) for cisplatin. The overall complete response rate was 50%; another 30% of the patients achieved a partial response. The 1-year failure-free survival and overall survival rates were 68% (95% CI, 43%-84%) and 89.5% (95% CI, 64%-97%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Gemcitabine can be added to TIP chemotherapy at the full dose, with manageable toxicity and no detrimental effect on the dose intensity of the TIP drugs. The response rate and duration were improved compared with those reported from the Medical Research Council TIP trial; further evaluation is warranted.

Emerging Prognostic Biomarkers in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Looking Beyond Established Practice

Testicular germ cell tumors are unique among solid cancers. Historically, this disease was deadly if progressed beyond the stage I. The implementation of cisplatin-based chemotherapy regimens has drastically changed the clinical outcome of metastatic testicular cancer. Several biomarkers were established to refine the prognosis by International Germ Cell Collaborative Group in 1997. Among these, the most significant were primary tumor site; metastatic sites, such as non-pulmonary visceral metastases; and the amplitude of serum tumor markers α-fetoprotein, β-chorionic gonadotropin, and lactate dehydrogenase. Since then, oncology has experienced discoveries of various molecular biomarkers to further refine the prognosis and treatment of malignancies. However, the ability to predict the prognosis and treatment response in germ cell tumors did not improve for many years. Clinical trials with novel targeting agents that were conducted in refractory germ cell tumor patients have proven to have negative outcomes. With the recent advances and developments, novel biomarkers emerge in the field of germ cell tumor oncology. This review article aims to summarize the current knowledge in the research of novel prognostic biomarkers in testicular germ cell tumors.

Malignant mixed ovarian germ cell tumor composed of immature teratoma, yolk sac tumor and embryonal carcinoma harboring an EGFR mutation: a case report

Malignant mixed ovarian germ cell tumors are very rare, accounting for ~5.3% of all malignant ovarian germ cell tumors (MOGCTs), with a very high degree of malignancy. The treatment of patients with persistent, refractory, or platinum-resistant MOGCT is not well defined. The objective of this case report was to analyze the importance of chemotherapy, salvage surgery and target therapy in the treatment of a patient with refractory OGCT after first-line chemotherapy failure. We reported a 34 year-old woman suffered from advanced refractory MOGCT after first-line chemotherapy, cytoreductive surgery, and a series of chemotherapy. The genetic test shows she is a carrier of EGFR: p.L858R mutation. Based on genetic testing result, she received icotinib which targeted for EGFR mutation, but the tumor progressed. After a secondary cytoreductive surgery, she exhibited a partial response and continued to receive chemotherapy. This suggests that salvage surgery may be considered for patients with persistent or refractory MOGCTs when no effective systemic treatment option is available. Targeted therapies based on gene sequencing may provide a new option; however, its efficacy and related resistance mechanisms still need to be verified by further study.

Management of extraretroperitoneal masses in germ cell tumor

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Management of extraretroperitoneal (ERP) germ cell tumor (GCT) is a complex clinical scenario faced by urologic oncologists. This article reviews the indications and approach to management of ERP GCT masses.

RECENT FINDINGS

ERP GCT management starts with chemotherapy, and for any residual masses, a careful consideration of surgical intervention versus salvage chemotherapy. Decision-making regarding residual ERP masses hinges on tumor markers, and also the anatomical location. These factors should be contextualized by the patient's risk for teratoma or active GCT, which will impact outcome and thus weigh on decision-making conversations with patients who have advanced disease. Technical challenges of surgical management in the postchemotherapy setting also apply in ERP mass resection. The risks of surgical management in the lung and liver, in particular, add special considerations for morbidity. Surgical resection is often the only recourse for a patient who may have chemoresistant disease and may be an important step in achieving cure.

SUMMARY

Surgical management of ERP GCT requires multidisciplinary input, and the urologic oncologist can help guide management with particular emphasis on the indication, timing, and approach to surgical resection.

Surgical Management of Patients with Advanced Germ Cell Tumors Following Salvage Chemotherapy: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) Experience

OBJECTIVE

To characterize clinical and pathologic outcomes of cisplatin-refractory or relapsed germ cell tumor (GCT) patients who underwent retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) following salvage chemotherapy with either conventional or high dose regimens.

METHODS

Data were reviewed to identify all patients treated with TIP or TICE salvage chemotherapy between 1994 and 2011(n = 184) at our institution. We report clinicopathologic and outcomes data on 131 patients who were further managed with surgical resection. Using Cox-proportional hazards models, predictors of disease-specific survival (DSS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 7.3 years. Of the 112 patients who underwent postsalvage chemotherapy RPLND, histology was reported as viable GCT in 30 (27%), teratoma only in 26 (23%) and fibrosis in 56 (50%). 5-year DSS for the entire cohort was 74% (95% confidence interval 63%-80%). On multivariable analysis, viable GCT histology at RPLND or extra-RPLND resection predicted for worse DSS (hazard ratio 7.37, P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that approximately half of the patient with cisplatin-refractory or relapsed GCT salvaged with TIP or TICE chemotherapy and evidence of residual disease are at risk of harboring either viable GCT or teratoma. This finding underlines the critical role of surgery in the multimodality approach to the management of this advanced disease entity. If retroperitoneal disease exists prior to salvage chemotherapy, we recommend postchemotherapy resection in all eligible patients.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy among men between 14 and 44 years of age, and its incidence has risen over the past two decades in Western countries. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of testicular cancer, for which cryptorchidism is the most common risk factor. Progress has been made in our understanding of the disease since the initial description of carcinoma in situ of the testis in 1972 (now referred to as germ cell neoplasia in situ), which has led to improved treatment options. The combination of surgery and cisplatin-based chemotherapy has resulted in a cure rate of >90% in patients with testicular cancer, although some patients become refractory to chemotherapy or have a late relapse; an improved understanding of the molecular determinants underlying tumour sensitivity and resistance may lead to the development of novel therapies for these patients. This Primer provides an overview of the biology, epidemiology, diagnosis and current treatment guidelines for testicular cancer, with a focus on germ cell tumours. We also outline areas for future research and what to expect in the next decade for testicular cancer.