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Le Rhun E, Weller M, Anders C, Larkin J, Li J, Moss NS, Tawbi H, Dummer R. "Symptomatic" melanoma brain metastases: A call for clear definitions and adoption of standardized tools. Eur J Cancer 2024; 208:114202. [PMID: 38991283 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2024.114202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
With improved systemic treatment and prolonged survival even with metastatic disease, diagnosing, treating, and monitoring brain metastases has become a central topic in the care of patients with melanoma. Patients with brain metastases from melanoma are typically excluded from pivotal clinical trials. When allowed, inclusion and exclusion criteria are rather selective and do not reflect the larger population of melanoma patients with brain metastases who frequently present with neurological symptoms and signs and require steroid medications. Moreover, the lack of consensus on reporting symptomatic brain involvement complicates the interpretation and implications of trial results for the overall population of patients with melanoma and brain metastasis. Here, we review the evidence regarding brain metastasis from melanoma and discuss the challenges of longitudinal neurological clinical assessments, including tools to capture cognition and quality of life. Finally, we propose the adoption of standardized tools to interpret neurological deficits in patients with melanoma and brain metastases and to assess the neurological status in the context of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Le Rhun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Weller
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C Anders
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - J Larkin
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - J Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - N S Moss
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Metastasis Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - H Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R Dummer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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2
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Knox A, Wang T, Shackleton M, Ameratunga M. Symptomatic brain metastases in melanoma. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e15075. [PMID: 38610093 DOI: 10.1111/exd.15075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Although clinical outcomes in metastatic melanoma have improved in recent years, the morbidity and mortality of symptomatic brain metastases remain challenging. Response rates and survival outcomes of patients with symptomatic melanoma brain metastases (MBM) are significantly inferior to patients with asymptomatic disease. This review focusses upon the specific challenges associated with the management of symptomatic MBM, discussing current treatment paradigms, obstacles to improving clinical outcomes and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Knox
- Department of Medical Oncology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tim Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Shackleton
- Department of Medical Oncology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Malaka Ameratunga
- Department of Medical Oncology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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3
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Avino A, Ion DE, Gheoca-Mutu DE, Abu-Baker A, Țigăran AE, Peligrad T, Hariga CS, Balcangiu-Stroescu AE, Jecan CR, Tudor A, Răducu L. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Particularities of Symptomatic Melanoma Brain Metastases from Case Report to Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:688. [PMID: 38611601 PMCID: PMC11011469 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent introduction of immunotherapy and targeted therapy has substantially enriched the therapeutic landscape of metastatic melanoma. However, cerebral metastases remain unrelenting entities with atypical metabolic and genetic profiles compared to extracranial metastases, requiring combined approaches with local ablative treatment to alleviate symptoms, prevent recurrence and restore patients' biological and psychological resources for fighting malignancy. This paper aims to provide the latest scientific evidence about the rationale and timing of treatment, emphasizing the complementary roles of surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic therapy in eradicating brain metastases, with a special focus on the distinct response of intracranial and extracranial disease, which are regarded as separate molecular entities. To illustrate the complexity of designing individualized therapeutic schemes, we report a case of delayed BRAF-mutant diagnosis, an aggressive forearm melanoma, in a presumed psychiatric patient whose symptoms were caused by cerebral melanoma metastases. The decision to administer molecularly targeted therapy was dictated by the urgency of diminishing the tumor burden for symptom control, due to potentially life-threatening complications caused by the flourishing of extracranial disease in locations rarely reported in living patients, further proving the necessity of multidisciplinary management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelaida Avino
- Discipline of Plastic Surgery, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.A.); (C.-R.J.); (L.R.)
- Doctoral School, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
| | - Daniela-Elena Ion
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
| | - Daniela-Elena Gheoca-Mutu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
- Discipline of Anatomy, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Abdalah Abu-Baker
- Doctoral School, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
| | - Andrada-Elena Țigăran
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
| | - Teodora Peligrad
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
| | - Cristian-Sorin Hariga
- Discipline of Plastic Surgery, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.A.); (C.-R.J.); (L.R.)
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Clinical Emergency Hospital Bucharest, 014461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andra-Elena Balcangiu-Stroescu
- Discipline of Physiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian-Radu Jecan
- Discipline of Plastic Surgery, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.A.); (C.-R.J.); (L.R.)
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
| | - Adrian Tudor
- Discipline of Anatomy and Embriology, University of Medicine, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade”, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania;
- Department of General Surgery I, Targu Mures Emergency Clinical Hospital, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Laura Răducu
- Discipline of Plastic Surgery, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.A.); (C.-R.J.); (L.R.)
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu’ Clinical Emergency Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania; (D.-E.G.-M.); (A.-E.Ț.); (T.P.)
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Tsetlina V, Stanford RA, Syrkin G, Ibanez K. Steroid myopathy and rehabilitation in patients with cancer. PM R 2024. [PMID: 38381659 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Steroids are broadly used in oncology, despite known adverse events such as glucocorticosteroid-induced myopathy (SM). To date there are no accepted guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of SM. The purpose of this review is to provide up-to-date information regarding SM with emphasis on neuro-oncology and hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients, given they are at high risk of experiencing SM following routine treatment with steroids. Our work is a combination of a comprehensive narrative review regarding etiology, pathogenesis, incidence, clinical presentation and treatment options for SM and a scoping review on the exercise therapy for SM. We have identified 24 in vivo studies of different exercise modalities in the settings of glucocorticosteroid treatment. Twenty of 24 studies demonstrated decreased muscle catabolism with exercise training. Both endurance and resistance exercises at mild to moderate intensity were beneficial. The value of high-intensity activities remains questionable as it may worsen muscle atrophy. Rehabilitation interventions, along with pharmacologic and dietary considerations, may be beneficial in preventing or reversing SM. Potential adverse events of some of these interventions and expected caveats in translating findings in preclinical models to human settings warrant caution and demand controlled clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Tsetlina
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, NewYork-Presbyterial Columbia Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ray A Stanford
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Grigory Syrkin
- Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Katarzyna Ibanez
- Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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5
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Welch MR. Management of Complications in Neuro-oncology Patients. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2023; 29:1844-1871. [PMID: 38085901 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this article is to familiarize the reader with the spectrum of neurologic and medical complications relevant to the care of patients with neurologic cancer while highlighting best practices to prevent morbidity and mortality. Topics include tumor-related epilepsy, vasogenic edema, complications of corticosteroid use, disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, venous thromboembolism, and opportunistic infection. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS In 2021, a joint guideline from the Society for Neuro-Oncology and the European Association of Neuro-Oncology reaffirmed recommendations first established in 2000 that patients with newly diagnosed brain tumors should not be prescribed an antiseizure medication prophylactically. For those with tumor-related epilepsy, monotherapy with a non-enzyme-inducing anticonvulsant is the preferred initial treatment, and levetiracetam remains the preferred first choice. Surveys of physician practice continue to demonstrate excessive use of glucocorticoids in the management of patients with both primary and metastatic central nervous system malignancy. This is particularly concerning among patients who require checkpoint inhibitors as the efficacy of these agents is blunted by concomitant glucocorticoid use, resulting in a reduction in overall survival. Finally, direct oral anticoagulants have been shown to be safe in patients with brain tumors and are now favored as first-line treatment among those who require treatment for venous thromboembolism. ESSENTIAL POINTS Medical care for patients impacted by primary and secondary central nervous system malignancy is complex and requires a committed team-based approach that routinely calls upon the expertise of physicians across multiple fields. Neurologists have an important role to play and should be familiar with the spectrum of complications impacting these patients as well as the latest recommendations for management.
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6
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Yan X, Qu F, Zhou Y. Progress of immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy for non-small cell lung cancer with brain metastases. Lung Cancer 2023; 184:107322. [PMID: 37611495 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2023.107322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
About 40% of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) develop brain metastases (BMs) throughout the disease, and the occurrence of BMs is considered to have a fairly high mortality rate. Therefore, the management of brain metastases in NSCLC patients is a clinical challenge. Currently, multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment methods are often used to achieve effective control of intracranial disease and prolong survival. Immunotherapy (IT) is one of the core therapies for NSCLC. Single or combined IT represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs) of programmed death-1(PD-1)/ programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) can significantly improve the prognosis of patients with advanced NSCLC.ICIs has been shown to be safe and effective in patients with BMs, although patients with BMs are mostly underrepresented in randomized clinical trials. In this review, we summarized the mechanism of ICIs in the treatment of BMs, and the clinical research and treatment progress of ICIs and their combination with other therapies in patients with BMs s from NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yan
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Dalian Third People's Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 116033, China
| | - Fanjie Qu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Dalian Third People's Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 116033, China.
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Dalian Third People's Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 116033, China
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7
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Zeng Y, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Jian W, Li R, Fu Q. Atypical primary malignant melanoma originating in the spinal canal: A case report and literature review. Oncol Lett 2023; 26:433. [PMID: 37664668 PMCID: PMC10472031 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.14020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) malignant melanomas are rare tumors of the CNS that are thought to arise from aberrant changes in melanocytes of the neural crest or melanocytic elements of the pia mater during early embryonic development. As a rare type of CNS malignant melanoma, only a few cases of primary malignant melanoma in the spinal canal have been reported thus far. The majority of these studies have reported on the diagnosis, radiographic features and gross total resection of primary spinal canal malignant melanoma; however, the prognosis and ideal treatment of patients with residual tumors remain elusive. The current study presented the rare case of a patient with primary malignant melanoma originating from the thoracic spinal canal, without any history of irradiation exposure and with an incompletely resected tumor. Disease-free survival of >2.5 years was observed in this patient who was treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by adjuvant chemotherapy with temozolomide and bevacizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zeng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Wei Jian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Rongqing Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Qiaofen Fu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
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8
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Webb MJ, Breen WG, Laack NN, Leventakos K, Campian JL, Sener U. Proton craniospinal irradiation with bevacizumab and pembrolizumab for leptomeningeal disease: a case report. CNS Oncol 2023; 12:CNS101. [PMID: 37491842 PMCID: PMC10410687 DOI: 10.2217/cns-2023-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) remains a challenging condition with a dismal prognosis. In this case study, we report partial response of LMD in a patient with metastatic large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma following treatment with proton craniospinal irradiation (CSI), bevacizumab, and pembrolizumab. Two years after the initial diagnosis, he presented with LMD. He underwent proton CSI with bevacizumab followed by combination therapy with pembrolizumab and bevacizumab. He had a partial disease response with progression-free survival after LMD diagnosis of 4.6 months. He unfortunately developed pembrolizumab induced hypophysitis, after which he experienced rapid neurologic clinical progression. Overall, this novel combination led to a durable partial response which warrants prospective evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mason J Webb
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - William G Breen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Nadia N Laack
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | | | - Jian L Campian
- Department of Oncology, Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Ugur Sener
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Ahmad A, Khan P, Rehman AU, Batra SK, Nasser MW. Immunotherapy: an emerging modality to checkmate brain metastasis. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:111. [PMID: 37454123 PMCID: PMC10349473 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of brain metastasis (BrM) has historically been a dooming diagnosis that is nothing less than a death sentence, with few treatment options for palliation or prolonging life. Among the few treatment options available, brain radiotherapy (RT) and surgical resection have been the backbone of therapy. Within the past couple of years, immunotherapy (IT), alone and in combination with traditional treatments, has emerged as a reckoning force to combat the spread of BrM and shrink tumor burden. This review compiles recent reports describing the potential role of IT in the treatment of BrM in various cancers. It also examines the impact of the tumor microenvironment of BrM on regulating the spread of cancer and the role IT can play in mitigating that spread. Lastly, this review also focuses on the future of IT and new clinical trials pushing the boundaries of IT in BrM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aatiya Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Parvez Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Asad Ur Rehman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Surinder Kumar Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
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10
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Goodman RS, Johnson DB, Balko JM. Corticosteroids and Cancer Immunotherapy. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:2580-2587. [PMID: 36648402 PMCID: PMC10349688 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-3181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite revolutionizing cancer management, immunotherapies dysregulate the immune system, leading to immune-mediated adverse events. These common and potentially dangerous toxicities are often treated with corticosteroids, which are among the most prescribed drugs in oncology for a wide range of cancer and noncancer indications. While steroids exert several mechanisms to reduce immune activity, immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), are designed to enhance the immune system's inherent antitumor activity. Because ICI requires an intact and robust immune response, the immunosuppressive properties of steroids have led to a widespread concern that they may interfere with antitumor responses. However, the existing data of the effect of systemic steroids on immunotherapy efficacy remain somewhat conflicted and unclear. To inform clinical decision-making and improve outcomes, we review the impact of steroids on antitumor immunity, recent advances in the knowledge of their impact on ICI efficacy in unique populations and settings, associated precautions, and steroid-sparing treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas B. Johnson
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Justin M. Balko
- Department of Medicine, Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Tran TT, Caulfield J, Zhang L, Schoenfeld D, Djureinovic D, Chiang VL, Oria V, Weiss SA, Olino K, Jilaveanu LB, Kluger HM. Lenvatinib or anti-VEGF in combination with anti-PD-1 differentially augments antitumor activity in melanoma. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e157347. [PMID: 36821392 PMCID: PMC10132152 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.157347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting tumor-associated blood vessels to increase immune infiltration may enhance treatment effectiveness, yet limited data exist regarding anti-angiogenesis effects on the tumor microenvironment (TME). We hypothesized that dual targeting of angiogenesis with immune checkpoints would improve both intracranial and extracranial disease. We used subcutaneous and left ventricle melanoma models to evaluate anti-PD-1/anti-VEGF and anti-PD-1/lenvatinib (pan-VEGFR inhibitor) combinations. Cytokine/chemokine profiling and flow cytometry were performed to assess signaling and immune-infiltrating populations. An in vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB) model was utilized to study intracranial treatment effects on endothelial integrity and leukocyte transmigration. Anti-PD-1 with either anti-VEGF or lenvatinib improved survival and decreased tumor growth in systemic melanoma murine models; treatment increased Th1 cytokine/chemokine signaling. Lenvatinib decreased tumor-associated macrophages but increased plasmacytoid DCs early in treatment; this effect was not evident with anti-VEGF. Both lenvatinib and anti-VEGF resulted in decreased intratumoral blood vessels. Although anti-VEGF promoted endothelial stabilization in an in vitro BBB model, while lenvatinib did not, both regimens enabled leukocyte transmigration. The combined targeting of PD-1 and VEGF or its receptors promotes enhanced melanoma antitumor activity, yet their effects on the TME are quite different. These studies provide insights into dual anti-PD-1 and anti-angiogenesis combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy T. Tran
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jasmine Caulfield
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - David Schoenfeld
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Dijana Djureinovic
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Veronica L. Chiang
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Victor Oria
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sarah A. Weiss
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kelly Olino
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lucia B. Jilaveanu
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Harriet M. Kluger
- Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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12
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Wilmott JS, Tawbi H, Engh JA, Amankulor N, Shivalingam B, Banerjee H, Vergara IA, Lee H, Johansson PA, Ferguson PM, Saiag P, Robert C, Grob JJ, Butterfield LH, Scolyer RA, Kirkwood JM, Long GV, Davies MA. Clinical Features Associated with Outcomes and Biomarker Analysis of Dabrafenib plus Trametinib Treatment in Patients with BRAF-Mutant Melanoma Brain Metastases. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:521-531. [PMID: 36477181 PMCID: PMC9898142 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-2581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to identify baseline clinical features associated with the outcomes of patients enrolled in the COMBI-MB phase II study of dabrafenib and trametinib treatment in patients with V600 BRAF-mutant metastatic melanoma with melanoma brain metastases (MBM). Exploratory biomarker analysis was also conducted as part of the synergistic COMBI-BRV trial (BRV116521), to identify molecular and immunologic changes associated with dabrafenib in MBMs and extracranial metastases (ECM). PATIENTS AND METHODS Post hoc analysis was performed for baseline features of patients (n = 125) enrolled in COMBI-MB. Analyses were performed to identify baseline clinical features associated with intracranial response rate (ICRR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Exploratory biomarker analysis was performed on biospecimen collected in the COMBI-BRV trial in which patients with BRAF-mutant, resectable MBM were treated with dabrafenib for 10 to 14 days prior to craniotomy. Accessible ECM were resected or biopsied at the time of craniotomy. Biospecimens underwent molecular and immunologic profiling for comparative analyses. RESULTS In COMBI-MB baseline treatment with corticosteroids was independently associated with lower ICRR [39% vs. 63%; OR, 0.323; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 0.105-0.996; P = 0.049] and shorter PFS (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.06-3.51; P = 0.031). Additional significant associations identified in the multivariate analysis were improved PFS in patients with a BRAFV600E genotype (HR, 0.565; 95% CI, 0.321-0.996; P = 0.048) and improved OS in patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 0 (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.25-0.78; P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Corticosteroid treatment was associated with reduced ICRR and PFS in COMBI-MB, similar to results with immunotherapy for MBMs. Baseline corticosteroid treatment is a key factor to consider in MBM patient management and clinical trial design/interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S. Wilmott
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hussein Tawbi
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Johnathan A Engh
- The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nduka Amankulor
- The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brindha Shivalingam
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, NSW, Australia
| | - Hiya Banerjee
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ismael A. Vergara
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hansol Lee
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter A. Johansson
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter M Ferguson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philippe Saiag
- Dermatology Department, Ambroise Paré Hospital, APHP, Versailles University – Paris-Saclay, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Caroline Robert
- Gustave Roussy and Paris Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Lisa H. Butterfield
- The Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Richard A. Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John M Kirkwood
- The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Georgina V. Long
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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13
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Admojo L, Korte J, Anderson N, Phillips C, Caspersz L, Lasocki A. Investigating the role of delayed contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to differentiate radiation necrosis from tumour recurrence in brain metastases after stereotactic radiosurgery. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2023; 67:292-298. [PMID: 36650724 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incidence of radionecrosis (RN) after stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) to brain metastases is increasing. An overlap in the conventional MRI appearances of RN and tumour recurrence (TR) is diagnostically challenging. Delayed contrast MRI compares contrast enhancement over two time periods to create treatment response assessment maps (TRAMs). We aim to assess the utility of TRAMs in brain metastases patients. METHODS Delayed contrast MRI scans were performed on ten brain metastases patients, previously treated with SRS, who developed equivocal lesion(s) on routine MRI follow-up. T1-weighted images were obtained five minutes and 60-75 min after contrast injection, followed by Brain Lab software analysis to create TRAMs. TRAMs patterns were then compared with the patient's clinical status, subsequent imaging, and histology results. RESULTS We identified three regions on TRAMs: central, peripheral, and surrounding. Each region could be described either as contrast accumulation (red colour and representing non-tumour tissue) or contrast clearance (blue colour and representing tumour tissue). Our analysis demonstrated similarities in the TRAMs pattern between TR and RN, though to varying degrees. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the TRAMs appearances of RN and TR overlap. Our findings suggest that the previously-described correlation between contrast clearance and TR is at least partially attributable to more solid initial enhancement, rather than convincingly a difference in the underlying tissue properties, and the additional diagnostic value of TRAMs may be limited. Thus, further research on TRAMs is necessary prior to incorporating it into routine clinical management after SRS for brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenztino Admojo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Korte
- Department of Physical Science, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nigel Anderson
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Radiation Therapy Services, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claire Phillips
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lauren Caspersz
- Department of Cancer Imaging, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Arian Lasocki
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Cancer Imaging, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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14
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The Analysis of Trends in Survival for Patients with Melanoma Brain Metastases with Introduction of Novel Therapeutic Options before the Era of Combined Immunotherapy-Multicenter Italian-Polish Report. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235763. [PMID: 36497248 PMCID: PMC9737166 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Stage IV melanoma patients develop melanoma brain metastases (MBM) in 50% of cases. Their prognosis is improving, and its understanding outside the context of clinical trials is relevant. We have retrospectively analyzed the clinical data, course of treatment, and outcomes of 531 subsequent stage IV melanoma patients with BM treated in five reference Italian and Polish melanoma centers between 2014 and 2021. Patients with MBM after 2017 had a better prognosis, with a significantly improved median of overall survival (OS) after 2017 in the worst mol-GPA prognostic groups (mol-GPA ≤ 2): a median OS >6 months and HR 0.76 vs. those treated before 2017 (CI: 0.60−0.97, p = 0.027). In our prognostic model, mol-GPA was highly predictive for survival, and symptoms without steroid use did not have prognostic significance. Local therapy significantly improved survival regardless of the year of diagnosis (treated before or after 2017), with median survival >12 months. Systemic therapy improved outcomes when it was combined with local therapy. Local surgery was associated with improved OS regardless of the timing related to treatment start (i.e., before or after 30 days from MBM diagnosis). Local and systemic treatment significantly prolong survival for the poorest mol-GPA prognosis. Use of modern treatment modalities is justified in all mol-GPA prognostic groups.
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15
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Karz A, Dimitrova M, Kleffman K, Alvarez-Breckenridge C, Atkins MB, Boire A, Bosenberg M, Brastianos P, Cahill DP, Chen Q, Ferguson S, Forsyth P, Glitza Oliva IC, Goldberg SB, Holmen SL, Knisely JPS, Merlino G, Nguyen DX, Pacold ME, Perez-Guijarro E, Smalley KSM, Tawbi HA, Wen PY, Davies MA, Kluger HM, Mehnert JM, Hernando E. Melanoma central nervous system metastases: An update to approaches, challenges, and opportunities. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2022; 35:554-572. [PMID: 35912544 PMCID: PMC10171356 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Brain metastases are the most common brain malignancy. This review discusses the studies presented at the third annual meeting of the Melanoma Research Foundation in the context of other recent reports on the biology and treatment of melanoma brain metastases (MBM). Although symptomatic MBM patients were historically excluded from immunotherapy trials, efforts from clinicians and patient advocates have resulted in more inclusive and even dedicated clinical trials for MBM patients. The results of checkpoint inhibitor trials were discussed in conversation with current standards of care for MBM patients, including steroids, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. Advances in the basic scientific understanding of MBM, including the role of astrocytes and metabolic adaptations to the brain microenvironment, are exposing new vulnerabilities which could be exploited for therapeutic purposes. Technical advances including single-cell omics and multiplex imaging are expanding our understanding of the MBM ecosystem and its response to therapy. This unprecedented level of spatial and temporal resolution is expected to dramatically advance the field in the coming years and render novel treatment approaches that might improve MBM patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alcida Karz
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA.,Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
| | - Maya Dimitrova
- Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Kevin Kleffman
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA.,Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
| | | | - Michael B Atkins
- Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Adrienne Boire
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Marcus Bosenberg
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research NCI, NIH, USA
| | - Priscilla Brastianos
- MGH Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel P Cahill
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qing Chen
- Immunology, Microenvironment and Metastasis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sherise Ferguson
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Peter Forsyth
- Department of Neuro-Oncology and Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Isabella C Glitza Oliva
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sarah B Goldberg
- Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sheri L Holmen
- Huntsman Cancer Institute and Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jonathan P S Knisely
- Meyer Cancer Center and Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Glenn Merlino
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research NCI, NIH, USA
| | - Don X Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael E Pacold
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Langone Health and NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eva Perez-Guijarro
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research NCI, NIH, USA
| | - Keiran S M Smalley
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Hussein A Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Patrick Y Wen
- Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, United States, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael A Davies
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Harriet M Kluger
- Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Janice M Mehnert
- Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Eva Hernando
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA.,Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
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16
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Marx S, Godicelj A, Wucherpfennig KW. A Conceptual Framework for Inducing T Cell-Mediated Immunity Against Glioblastoma. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:697-707. [PMID: 35505129 PMCID: PMC9942346 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00945-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain tumor with limited treatment options. Several major challenges have limited the development of novel therapeutics, including the extensive heterogeneity of tumor cell states within each glioblastoma and the ability of glioma cells to diffusely infiltrate into neighboring healthy brain tissue, including the contralateral hemisphere. A T cell-mediated immune response could deal with these challenges based on the ability of polyclonal T cell populations to recognize diverse tumor antigens and perform surveillance throughout tissues. Here we will discuss the major pathways that inhibit T cell-mediated immunity against glioblastoma, with an emphasis on receptor-ligand systems by which glioma cells and recruited myeloid cells inhibit T cell function. A related challenge is that glioblastomas tend to be poorly infiltrated by T cells, which is not only caused by inhibitory molecular pathways but also currently utilized drugs, in particular high-dose corticosteroids that kill activated, proliferating T cells. We will discuss innovative approaches to induce glioblastoma-directed T cell responses, including neoantigen-based vaccines and sophisticated CAR T cell approaches that can target heterogeneous glioblastoma cell populations. Finally, we will propose a conceptual framework for the future development of T cell-based immunotherapies for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha Marx
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anze Godicelj
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Program in Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kai W. Wucherpfennig
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Program in Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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17
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Melanoma Brain Metastases: An Update on the Use of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Molecularly Targeted Agents. Am J Clin Dermatol 2022; 23:523-545. [PMID: 35534670 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-022-00678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastases from melanoma are no longer uniformly associated with dismal outcomes. Impressive tumor tissue-based (craniotomy) translational research has consistently shown that distinct patient subgroups may have a favorable prognosis. This review provides a historical overview of the standard-of-care treatments until the early 2010s. It subsequently summarizes more recent advances in understanding the biology of melanoma brain metastases (MBMs) and treating patients with MBMs, mainly focusing upon prospective clinical trials of BRAF/MEK and PD-1/CTLA-4 inhibitors in patients with previously untreated MBMs. These additional systemic treatments have provided effective complementary treatment approaches and/or alternatives to radiation and craniotomy. The current role of radiation therapy, especially in conjunction with systemic therapies, is also discussed through the lens of various retrospective studies. The combined efficacy of systemic treatments with radiation has improved overall survival over the last 10 years and has sparked considerable research interest regarding optimal dosing and sequencing of radiation treatments with systemic treatments. Finally, the review describes ongoing clinical trials in patients with MBMs.
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18
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Eisemann T, Wechsler-Reya RJ. Coming in from the cold: overcoming the hostile immune microenvironment of medulloblastoma. Genes Dev 2022; 36:514-532. [PMID: 35680424 PMCID: PMC9186392 DOI: 10.1101/gad.349538.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is an aggressive brain tumor that occurs predominantly in children. Despite intensive therapy, many patients die of the disease, and novel therapies are desperately needed. Although immunotherapy has shown promise in many cancers, the low mutational burden, limited infiltration of immune effector cells, and immune-suppressive microenvironment of medulloblastoma have led to the assumption that it is unlikely to respond to immunotherapy. However, emerging evidence is challenging this view. Here we review recent preclinical and clinical studies that have identified mechanisms of immune evasion in medulloblastoma, and highlight possible therapeutic interventions that may give new hope to medulloblastoma patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Eisemann
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Robert J Wechsler-Reya
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92161, USA
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19
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Strickland MR, Alvarez-Breckenridge C, Gainor JF, Brastianos PK. Tumor Immune Microenvironment of Brain Metastases: Toward Unlocking Antitumor Immunity. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:1199-1216. [PMID: 35394521 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastasis (BrM) is a devastating complication of solid tumors associated with poor outcomes. Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the treatment of cancer, but determinants of response are incompletely understood. Given the rising incidence of BrM, improved understanding of immunobiologic principles unique to the central nervous system (CNS) and dissection of those that govern the activity of ICIs are paramount toward unlocking BrM-specific antitumor immunity. In this review, we seek to discuss the current clinical landscape of ICI activity in the CNS and CNS immunobiology, and we focus, in particular, on the role of glial cells in the CNS immune response to BrM. SIGNIFICANCE There is an urgent need to improve patient selection for and clinical activity of ICIs in patients with cancer with concomitant BrM. Increased understanding of the unique immunobiologic principles that govern response to ICIs in the CNS is critical toward identifying targets in the tumor microenvironment that may potentiate antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Justin F Gainor
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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20
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Wang J, Tawbi HA. Emergent immunotherapy approaches for brain metastases. Neurooncol Adv 2021; 3:v43-v51. [PMID: 34859232 PMCID: PMC8633738 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases from solid tumors are increasing in incidence, especially as outcomes of systemic therapies continue to extend patients’ overall survival. The long-held notion that the brain is an immune sanctuary has now been largely refuted with increasing evidence that immunotherapy can induce durable responses in brain metastases. Single agent immune checkpoint inhibition with anti-CTLA4 and anti-PD1 antibodies induces durable responses in 15%–20% in melanoma brain metastases as long as patients are asymptomatic and do not require corticosteroids. The combination of anti-CTLA4 with anti-PD-1 antibodies induces an intracranial response in over 50% of asymptomatic melanoma patients, and much lower rate of otherwise durable responses (20%) in symptomatic patients or those on steroids. Data in other cancers, such as renal cell carcinoma, are accumulating indicating a role for immunotherapy. Emerging immunotherapy approaches will have to focus on increasing response rates, decreasing toxicity, and decreasing steroid dependency. The path to those advances will have to include a better understanding of the mechanisms of response and resistance to immunotherapy in brain metastases, the use of novel agents such as anti-LAG3 checkpoint inhibitors, targeted therapy (oncogene directed or TKIs), and possibly surgery and SRS to improve the outcomes of patients with brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbo Wang
- Department of Genitourinary Malignancies, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hussein A Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to cover current MRI techniques for assessing treatment response in brain tumors, with a focus on radio-induced lesions. RECENT FINDINGS Pseudoprogression and radionecrosis are common radiological entities after brain tumor irradiation and are difficult to distinguish from real progression, with major consequences on daily patient care. To date, shortcomings of conventional MRI have been largely recognized but morphological sequences are still used in official response assessment criteria. Several complementary advanced techniques have been proposed but none of them have been validated, hampering their clinical use. Among advanced MRI, brain perfusion measures increase diagnostic accuracy, especially when added with spectroscopy and susceptibility-weighted imaging. However, lack of reproducibility, because of several hard-to-control variables, is still a major limitation for their standardization in routine protocols. Amide Proton Transfer is an emerging molecular imaging technique that promises to offer new metrics by indirectly quantifying intracellular mobile proteins and peptide concentration. Preliminary studies suggest that this noncontrast sequence may add key biomarkers in tumor evaluation, especially in posttherapeutic settings. SUMMARY Benefits and pitfalls of conventional and advanced imaging on posttreatment assessment are discussed and the potential added value of APT in this clinicoradiological evolving scenario is introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Nichelli
- Department of Neuroradiology, Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, boulevard de l’Hôpital, Paris
| | - Stefano Casagranda
- Department of Research & Innovation, Olea Medical, avenue des Sorbiers, La Ciotat, France
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22
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Medical and Neurological Management of Brain Tumor Complications. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2021; 21:53. [PMID: 34545509 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-021-01142-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The diagnosis of brain tumors often leads to complications that are either related to the tumor itself or the tumor-directed and supportive therapies, increasing the burden on the patients' quality of life and even survival. This article reviews the medical and neurological conditions that commonly complicate the disease course of brain tumors patients. RECENT FINDINGS Various mechanisms have been newly identified to be involved in the pathophysiology of seizures and brain edema and can help advance the treatment of such complications. There have also been new developments in the management of thromboembolic disease and cognitive impairment. Medical and neurological complications are being identified more often in brain tumor patients with the improved survival provided by therapeutic advances. Early and proper identification and management of such complications are crucial for a better survival and quality of life.
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23
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Jessurun CAC, Hulsbergen AFC, de Wit AE, Tewarie IA, Snijders TJ, Verhoeff JJC, Phillips JG, Reardon DA, Mekary RA, Broekman MLD. The combined use of steroids and immune checkpoint inhibitors in brain metastasis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Neuro Oncol 2021; 23:1261-1272. [PMID: 33631792 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noab046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have been a breakthrough for selected cancer patients, including those with brain metastases (BMs). Likewise, steroids have been an integral component of symptomatic management of BM patients. However, clinical evidence on the interaction between ICI and steroids in BM patients is conflicting and has not adequately been summarized thus far. Hence, the aim of this study was to perform a systematic literature review and meta-analysis on the association between steroid use and overall survival (OS) in BM patients receiving ICI. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using random-effects models across included studies. RESULTS After screening 1145 abstracts, 15 observational studies were included. Fourteen studies reported sufficient data for meta-analysis, comprising 1102 BM patients of which 32.1% received steroids. In the steroid group, median OS ranged from 2.9 to 10.2 months. In the nonsteroid group, median OS ranged from 4.9 to 25.1 months. Pooled results demonstrated significantly worse OS (HR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.22-2.77) and systemic progression-free survival (PFS; HR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.37-2.91) in the steroid group. Stratified analysis showed a consistent effect across the melanoma subgroup; not in the lung cancer subgroup. No significant association was shown between steroid use and intracranial PFS (HR = 1.31, 95% CI 0.42-4.07). CONCLUSIONS Administration of steroids was associated with significantly worse OS and PFS in BM patients receiving ICI. Further research on dose, timing, and duration of steroids is needed to elucidate the cause of this association and optimize outcomes in BM patients receiving ICI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charissa A C Jessurun
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center (CNOC), Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Alexander F C Hulsbergen
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center (CNOC), Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Anouk E de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ishaan A Tewarie
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center (CNOC), Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Tom J Snijders
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joost J C Verhoeff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - John G Phillips
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David A Reardon
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rania A Mekary
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center (CNOC), Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Business and Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marike L D Broekman
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center (CNOC), Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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24
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Makawita S, Tawbi HA. Nonsurgical Management of Melanoma Brain Metastasis: Current Therapeutics, Challenges, and Strategies for Progress. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2021; 41:79-90. [PMID: 34010041 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_321137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to provide an overview of nonsurgical treatment strategies for central nervous system metastases in melanoma as well as discuss treatment challenges and future directions. Recent strategies for melanoma brain metastases have involved proving the intracranial activity of approved therapies as well as identifying novel drug targets. BRAF/MEK combination therapy has intracranial activity in those with BRAF V600 mutations, though disease control is shorter for intracranial than extracranial metastases. Immunotherapy and combination immunotherapies have emerged as providing durable responses in melanoma, and newer studies combining immunotherapy with targeted therapies are emerging. Continued challenges include penetration through the blood-brain barrier and development of resistance mechanisms. Novel therapeutic targets and methods to improve central nervous system penetrance are being identified through the application of deep DNA- and RNA-sequencing analyses. Radiation therapy approaches, especially stereotactic radiosurgery in combination or in sequence with systemic therapies, are also being investigated. Both targeted therapies and immunotherapies have revolutionized the field of melanoma treatment. Multimodality approaches with multidisciplinary teams will pave the way for the future of central nervous system disease treatment in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Makawita
- Department of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Hussein A Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Sepúlveda-Sánchez JM, Pérez-Núñez A. The ESMO-EANO clinical practice guidelines for neurological and vascular complications of primary and secondary brain tumours: a valuable tool for clinicians. Ann Oncol 2020; 32:139-141. [PMID: 33316363 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J M Sepúlveda-Sánchez
- Neuro-oncology Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.
| | - A Pérez-Núñez
- Neuro-oncology Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Patients with brain tumors are susceptible to multiple complications that can affect their survival or quality of life. The scope of these complications is widening due to prolonged overall survival and improved therapies. In this review, we discuss the most common complications in this patient population focusing on the recent literature. We specifically concentrated on tumor-related epilepsy, vasogenic edema, infectious, vascular, chemotherapeutic, radiation, endocrine, and cognitive complications. RECENT FINDINGS Molecular biomarkers play a role in epileptogenicity in brain tumor patients, and anti-epileptic drugs may cause neuro-cognitive side effects independent of other factors. The pathophysiology of vasogenic edema remains complex and poorly understood. Limited data suggest that newer oral anticoagulants appear to be safe and effective in venous and arterial thromboembolic complications. Brain tumor patients are prone to a wide variety of complications, including some related to new therapies. Optimal management of these complications improves quality of life, and in some cases overall survival.
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Tran TT, Jilaveanu LB, Omuro A, Chiang VL, Huttner A, Kluger HM. Complications associated with immunotherapy for brain metastases. Curr Opin Neurol 2019; 32:907-916. [PMID: 31577604 PMCID: PMC7398556 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Median survival after the diagnosis of brain metastases has historically been on the order of months. With the recent development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, intracranial activity and durable responses have been observed in brain metastases on multiple phase 2 clinical trials, which have primarily been conducted in patients with melanoma. Immune-related adverse events related to checkpoint inhibitor therapy of brain metastasis can present unique challenges for the clinician and underscore the need for a multidisciplinary team in the care of these patients. The goal of this review is to address the current knowledge, limitations of understanding, and future directions in research regarding immune therapy trials and neurologic toxicities based on retrospective, prospective, and case studies. RECENT FINDINGS Immune therapy has the potential to exacerbate symptomatic edema and increase the risk of radiation necrosis in previously irradiated lesions. Neurologic toxicities will likely increase in prevalence as more patients with brain metastatic disease are eligible for immune therapy. SUMMARY An improved understanding and heightened awareness of the unique neurologic toxicities that impact this patient group is vital for mitigating treatment-related morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy T. Tran
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Brain Tumor Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lucia B. Jilaveanu
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Brain Tumor Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Antonio Omuro
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Brain Tumor Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Veronica L. Chiang
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Brain Tumor Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anita Huttner
- Yale Brain Tumor Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Harriet M. Kluger
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Brain Tumor Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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