Bevacizumab decreases vestibular schwannomas growth rate in children and teenagers with neurofibromatosis type 2

NF2: An underestimated player in cancer metabolic reprogramming and tumor immunity

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a tumor suppressor gene implicated in various tumors, including mesothelioma, schwannomas, and meningioma. As a member of the ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM) family of proteins, merlin, which is encoded by NF2, regulates diverse cellular events and signalling pathways, such as the Hippo, mTOR, RAS, and cGAS-STING pathways. However, the biological role of NF2 in tumorigenesis has not been fully elucidated. Furthermore, cross-cancer mutations may exert distinct biological effects on tumorigenesis and treatment response. In addition to the functional inactivation of NF2, the codeficiency of other genes, such as cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A/B (CDKN2A/B), BRCA1-associated protein-1 (BAP1), and large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2), results in unique tumor characteristics that should be considered in clinical treatment decisions. Notably, several recent studies have explored the metabolic and immunological features associated with NF2, offering potential insights into tumor biology and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. In this review, we consolidate the current knowledge on NF2 and examine the potential connection between cancer metabolism and tumor immunity in merlin-deficient malignancies. This review may provide a deeper understanding of the biological roles of NF2 and guide possible therapeutic avenues.

Bevacizumab Treatment for Patients with NF2-Related Schwannomatosis: A Single Center Experience

(1) Background: NF2-related schwannomatosis, characterized by the development of bilateral vestibular schwannomas, often necessitates varied treatment approaches. Bevacizumab, though widely utilized, demonstrates variable effectiveness on hearing and tumor growth. At the same time, (serious) adverse events have been frequently reported. (2) Methods: A single center retrospective study was conducted, on NF2-related schwannomatosis patients treated with bevacizumab from 2013 to 2023, with the aim to assess treatment-related and clinical outcomes. Outcomes of interest comprised hearing, radiologic response, symptoms, and adverse events. (3) Results: Seventeen patients received 7.5 mg/kg bevacizumab for 7.1 months. Following treatment, 40% of the patients experienced hearing improvement, 53%, stable hearing, and 7%, hearing loss. Vestibular schwannoma regression occurred in 31%, and 69% remained stable. Further symptomatic improvement was reported by 41%, stable symptoms by 47%, and worsened symptoms by 12%. Treatment discontinuation due to adverse events was observed in 29% of cases. Hypertension (82%) and fatigue (29%) were most frequently reported, with no occurrences of grade 4/5 toxicities. (4) Conclusion: Supporting previous studies, bevacizumab demonstrated positive effects on hearing, tumor control, and symptoms in NF2-related schwannomatosis, albeit with common adverse events. Therefore, careful consideration of an appropriate management strategy is warranted.

Brazilian Society of Otology task force - Vestibular Schwannoma ‒ evaluation and treatment

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular schwannoma.

METHODS

Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on vestibular schwannoma were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions.

RESULTS

The topics were divided into 2 parts: (1) Diagnosis - audiologic, electrophysiologic tests, and imaging; (2) Treatment - wait and scan protocols, surgery, radiosurgery/radiotherapy, and systemic therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Decision making in VS treatment has become more challenging. MRI can diagnose increasingly smaller tumors, which has disastrous consequences for the patients and their families. It is important to develop an individualized approach for each case, which highly depends on the experience of each surgical team.

Multicenter, prospective, phase II study of maintenance bevacizumab for children and adults with NF2-related schwannomatosis and progressive vestibular schwannoma

BACKGROUND

Prospective data on maintenance therapy with bevacizumab for persons with NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2-SWN) is lacking. In this prospective multicenter phase II study, we evaluated the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of bevacizumab for maintenance therapy in children and adults with NF2-SWN and hearing loss due to vestibular schwannomas (VS).

METHODS

Following induction therapy, participants received bevacizumab 5 mg/kg every 3 weeks for 18 months. Participants were monitored for changes in hearing, tumor size, and quality of life (QOL), and for adverse events. Hearing loss was defined as a statistically significant decline in word recognition score (WRS) or pure-tone average compared to the study baseline; tumor growth was defined as >20% increase in volume compared to baseline.

RESULTS

Twenty participants with NF2-SWN (median age 23.5 years; range, 12.5-62.5 years) with hearing loss in the target ear (median WRS 70%, range 2%-94%) received maintenance bevacizumab. Freedom from hearing loss in the target ear was 95% after 48 weeks, 89% after 72 weeks, and 70% after 98 weeks. Freedom from tumor growth in the target VS was 94% after 48 weeks, 89% after 72 weeks, and 89% after 98 weeks. NF2-related QOL remained stable for 98 weeks whereas tinnitus-related distress decreased. Maintenance bevacizumab was well tolerated, with 3 participants (15%) discontinuing treatment due to adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Maintenance bevacizumab (5 mg/kg every 3 weeks) is associated with high rates of hearing and tumor stability during 18 months of follow-up. No new unexpected adverse events related to bevacizumab were identified in this population.

A systematic review of targeted therapy for vestibular schwannoma in patients with NF2-related schwannomatosis

Background

One of the hallmarks of NF2-related Schwannomatosis (NF2-related SWN) is bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS) that can cause progressive hearing impairment in patients. This systematic review was performed to investigate the efficacy and toxicity of tested targeted agents.

Methods

The systematic search was conducted on PubMed and EMBASE Ovid databases from inception to October 2022, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The incidence of outcomes in studies involving bevacizumab and other targeted therapies was extracted. The bevacizumab results were pooled, and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.

Results

Sixteen studies (8 prospective and 8 retrospective) testing 6 drugs were selected out of 721 search results. There were 10 studies concerning bevacizumab, with a total of 200 patients. The pooled radiographic response rate (RR) was 38% (95% CI: 31 - 45%) and the pooled hearing response rate (HR) was 45% (95% CI: 36 - 54%). The most frequent bevacizumab-related toxicities were hypertension and menorrhagia. Of other targeted therapies showing activity, lapatinib had a RR of 6% and a HR of 31%. A VEGFR vaccine showed RR in 29% and HR in 40% of patients. Both agents had a manageable safety profile.

Conclusions

Bevacizumab, in comparison to other targeted agents, showed the highest efficacy. Lower dosage of bevacizumab shows comparable efficacy and may reduce toxicity. Other targeted agents, administered alone or as combination therapy, have the potential to improve outcomes for VS in patients with NF2-related SWN, but future clinical studies are needed.

Withdrawal of bevacizumab is associated with rebound growth of vestibular schwannomas in neurofibromatosis type 2-related schwannomatosis patients

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2)-related schwannomatosis is an autosomal dominant tumor-predisposition syndrome characterized by bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS). In patients with VS associated with NF2, vascular endothelial growth factor A inhibitor, bevacizumab, is a systemic treatment option. The aim of this study is to retrospectively evaluate NF2 patient responses to bevacizumab on VS growth and symptom progression.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of patients seen at the Mayo Clinic Rochester Multidisciplinary NF2 Clinic.

Results

Out of 76 patients with NF2 evaluated between 2020 and 2022, we identified 19 that received treatment with bevacizumab. Thirteen of these patients discontinued bevacizumab after median treatment duration of 12.2 months. The remaining 6 patients are currently receiving bevacizumab treatment for a median duration of 9.4 months as of March, 2023. Fifteen patients had evaluable brain MRI data, which demonstrated partial responses in 5 patients, stable disease in 8, and progression in 2. Within 6 months of bevacizumab discontinuation, 5 patients had rebound growth of their VS greater than 20% from their previous tumor volume, while 3 did not. Three patients with rebound growth went on to have surgery or irradiation for VS management.

Conclusions

Our single-institution experience confirms prior studies that bevacizumab can control progression of VS and symptoms associated with VS growth. However, we note that there is the potential for rapid VS growth following bevacizumab discontinuation, for which we propose heightened surveillance imaging and symptom monitoring for at least 6 months upon stopping anti-VEGF therapy.

[New classification and approaches to the treatment of schwannomatosis]

Schwannomatoses is a new classification unit for all the hereditary diseases caused by chromosome 22 damage followed by multiple benign neoplasms of the peripheral and central nervous system. Schwannomatosis occurs as a result of damage to different genes: NF2, SMARCB1, LZRT1, loss of heterozygosity of the long arm of chromosome 22. Nevertheless, clinical manifestations are similar. Molecular diagnostics not only confirms the diagnosis, but also predicts the course of disease. Thus, the most severe clinical manifestations are observed in patients with violation of semantic sequences and reading frame shift in exons 2-13 of the NF2 gene. A more favorable course with less number of tumors is observed in patients with somatic mosaicism. Stereotactic irradiation and surgery are the main treatment options for schwannomatosis. However, there is evidence of effective targeted therapy with bevacizumab (inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor). Bevacizumab is used in patients with bilateral vestibular schwannomas and high risk of hearing loss, as well as for intramedullary tumor growth control.

Targeting tumor microenvironment and metastasis in children with solid tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The prognosis of pediatric patients with metastatic solid tumors remains poor, necessitating development of novel therapeutic strategies. The biology of the pediatric tumor microenvironment (TME) presents obstacles for the efficacy of current therapeutic approaches including immunotherapies. Targeting various aspects of the TME in pediatric patients with solid tumors represents a therapeutic opportunity that may improve outcomes. Here we will discuss recent advances in characterization of the TME, and clinical advances in targeting the immune, vascular, and stromal aspects of the TME.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although immunotherapies have shown limited success in the treatment of pediatric solid tumor patients thus far, optimization of these approaches to overcome the TME shows promise. In addition, there is increasing focus on the myeloid compartment as a therapeutic target. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) targeting has resulted in responses in some refractory pediatric solid tumors. There has been relatively little focus on stromal targeting; however, emerging preclinical data are improving our understanding of underlying biology, paving the way for future therapies.

SUMMARY

Although translation of TME-targeting therapies for pediatric solid tumors is in the early stages, we are optimistic that continued exploration of approaches aimed at rebalancing the TME will lead to improved outcomes for this population.

Reliability and toxicity of bevacizumab for neurofibromatosis type 2-related vestibular schwannomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The anti-angiogenic agent bevacizumab is currently the only drug used clinically for neurofibromatosis type 2-related vestibular schwannomas (NF2-VS). Though benefits have been demonstrated in several cases, the standardized dosage remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

Our meta-analysis was performed to systematically and comprehensively investigate the reliability and toxicity of bevacizumab in the treatment of NF2-VS, with particular emphasis on the impact of dosage.

METHODS

The literature search was conducted for studies providing data on patients treated with bevacizumab for NF2-VS across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library until December 31, 2020. Two reviewers extracted the incidence rate of results independently. Then we calculated and pooled unadjusted incidence rate with 95% CIs for each study. The subgroups analyzed were conducted.

RESULTS

Fourteen citations (prospective or retrospective observational cohort studies) were eligible based on data from a total of 247 patients with NF2 and 332 related VSs. The pooled results showed that the radiographic response rate (RRR) was 30% [95% CI (20%-42%)], the hearing response rate (HRR) was 32% [95% CI (21%-45%)]. The incidence of major complications was: hypertension 29% [95% CI (23%-35%)], proteinuria 30% [95% CI (18%-44%)], menstrual disorders 44% [95% CI (16%-73%)], hemorrhage 14% [95% CI (4%-26%)], grade3/4 events 12% [95% CI (4%-22%)].

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly one-third of NF2-VS patients may benefit significantly from bevacizumab due to hearing improvement and tumor reduction. Menstrual disorders were the most common adverse events. The high-dose regimen didn't show better efficacy, but results varied considerably according to age.

Biological Treatments of Neurofibromatosis Type 2 and Other Skull Base Disorders

Studies of genomic alterations that occur in skull base tumors have provided information regarding biological aberrations that are necessary for the growth and maintenance of these tumors. This has led to the development and initiation of clinical trials incorporating biological treatments for many skull base tumors. The exciting developments of molecularly targeted therapy for the treatment of skull base tumors may provide noninvasive therapeutic options for patients that can be used either alone or in combination with surgery and/or radiation therapy. Future analysis and continued scientific discovery of treatments for skull base tumors can lead to improved outcomes in patients.

The biological underpinnings of radiation therapy for vestibular schwannomas: Review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

Radiation therapy is a mainstay in the treatment of numerous neoplasms. Numerous publications have reported good clinical outcomes for primary radiation therapy for Vestibular Schwannomas (VS). However, there are relatively few pathologic specimens of VSs available to evaluate post-radiation, which has led to a relative dearth in research on the cellular mechanisms underlying the effects of radiation therapy on VSs.

METHODS

Here we review the latest literature on the complex biological effects of radiation therapy on these benign tumors-including resistance to oxidative stress, mechanisms of DNA damage repair, alterations in normal growth factor pathways, changes in surrounding vasculature, and alterations in immune responses following radiation.

RESULTS

Although VSs are highly radioresistant, radiotherapy is often successful in arresting their growth.

CONCLUSION

By better understanding the mechanisms underlying these effects, we could potentially harness such mechanisms in the future to potentiate the clinical effects of radiotherapy on VSs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A.

A Review of Drug Therapy in Vestibular Schwannoma

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs, also known as acoustic neuromas) are benign intracranial tumors commonly managed with observation, surgery, and radiotherapy. There is currently no approved pharmacotherapy for VS patients, which is why we conducted a detailed search of relevant literature from PubMed and Web of Science to explore recent advances and experiences in drug therapy. VSs feature a long course of disease that requires treatment to have minimal long-term side effects. Conventional chemotherapeutic agents are characterized by neurotoxicity or ototoxicity, poor effect on slow-growing tumors, and may induce new mutations in patients who have lost tumor suppressor function, and therefore are unsuitable for treating VSs. Along with the well-investigated molecular pathophysiology of VS and the increasingly accessible technology such as drug repositioning platform, many molecular targeted inhibitors have been identified and shown certain therapeutic effects in preclinical experiments or clinical trials.

MRI-based diagnosis and treatment of pediatric brain tumors: is tissue sample always needed?

Traditional management of newly diagnosed pediatric brain tumors (PBTs) consists of cranial imaging, typically magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and is frequently followed by tissue diagnosis, through either surgical biopsy or tumor resection. Therapy regimes are typically dependent on histological diagnosis. To date, many treatment regimens are based on molecular biology. The scope of this article is to discuss the role of diagnosis and further treatment of PBTs based solely on MRI features, in light of the latest treatment protocols. Typical MRI findings and indications for surgical biopsy of these lesions are described.

Molecular-Targeted Therapy for Childhood Brain Tumors: A Moving Target

Molecular-targeted therapy is an attractive therapeutic approach for childhood brain tumors. Unfortunately, with some notable exceptions, such treatment has not yet made a major impact on survival or for that matter quality-of-life for children with brain tumors. Limitations include the specificity of any single agent to inhibit the target, the presence of multiple genetic abnormalities within a tumor, the likely presence of escape mechanisms and the frequent use of molecular-targeted therapies in relatively biologically unselected patient populations. Despite these limitations, the MEK inhibitors and the BRAF V600E inhibitors have already demonstrated efficacy and are being compared to standard therapy in trials of treatment-naïve patients. There is also great enthusiasm for molecular-targeted therapies that target selective gene fusions. Given the plasticity of epigenetic changes, the targeting of epigenetic aberrations is also a promising avenue of therapy. Because molecular-targeted therapies frequently target genes and pathways that are critical in normal brain development, the acute, subacute long-term sequelae of molecular-targeted therapies need to be carefully monitored.

Long-term therapy with Bevacizumab in a young patient affected by NF2. Stop or continue treatment? An update of a case report and review of the literature

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is an autosomal dominant condition caused by pathogenic variants in the NF2 gene. To date, cytotoxic chemotherapy has no established role in the treatment of NF-2. Historical case reports of malignant schwannomas have documented responses to chemotherapies with cyclophosphamide, vincristine and doxorubicin, in patients who develop pulmonary metastases. Recently, several studies proposed the use of anti-HER2, anti-EGFR, anti-platelet-derived growth factor receptors. As reported in our previous review of the literature, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor VEGFR-1 have been detected in schwannomas with the best results. We described the case of a young patient with NF2 treated for long time with Bevacizumab. Here, we report the update of the previous case report.

Pathomechanisms in schwannoma development and progression

Schwannomas are tumors of the peripheral nervous system, consisting of different cell types. These include tumorigenic Schwann cells, axons, macrophages, T cells, fibroblasts, blood vessels, and an extracellular matrix. All cell types involved constitute an intricate “tumor microenvironment” and play relevant roles in the development and progression of schwannomas. Although Nf2 tumor suppressor gene-deficient Schwann cells are the primary tumorigenic element and principle focus of current research efforts, evidence is accumulating regarding the contributory roles of other cell types in schwannoma pathology. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of intra- and intercellular mechanisms contributing to schwannoma formation.

“Genes load the gun, environment pulls the trigger.”

-George A. Bray

An update on the CNS manifestations of neurofibromatosis type 2

Neurofibromatosis type II (NF2) is a tumor predisposition syndrome characterized by the development of distinctive nervous system lesions. NF2 results from loss-of-function alterations in the NF2 gene on chromosome 22, with resultant dysfunction of its protein product merlin. NF2 is most commonly associated with the development of bilateral vestibular schwannomas; however, patients also have a predisposition to development of other tumors including meningiomas, ependymomas, and peripheral, spinal, and cranial nerve schwannomas. Patients may also develop other characteristic manifestations such as ocular lesions, neuropathies, meningioangiomatosis, and glial hamartia. NF2 has a highly variable clinical course, with some patients exhibiting a severe phenotype and development of multiple tumors at an early age, while others may be nearly asymptomatic throughout their lifetime. Despite the high morbidity associated with NF2 in severe cases, management of NF2-associated lesions primarily consists of surgical resection and treatment of symptoms, and there are currently no FDA-approved systemic therapies that address the underlying biology of the syndrome. Refinements to the diagnostic criteria of NF2 have been proposed over time due to increasing understanding of clinical and molecular data. Large-population studies have demonstrated that some features such as the development of gliomas and neurofibromas, currently included as diagnostic criteria, may require further clarification and modification. Meanwhile, burgeoning insights into the molecular biology of NF2 have shed light on the etiology and highly variable severity of the disease and suggested numerous putative molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. Here, we review the clinicopathologic features of NF2, current understanding of the molecular biology of NF2, particularly with regard to central nervous system lesions, ongoing therapeutic studies, and avenues for further research.

Contribution of mTOR and PTEN to Radioresistance in Sporadic and NF2-Associated Vestibular Schwannomas: A Microarray and Pathway Analysis

The use of radiation treatment has increased for both sporadic and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2)-associated vestibular schwannoma (VS). However, there are a subset of radioresistant tumors and systemic treatments that are seldom used in these patients. We investigated molecular alterations after radiation in three NF2-associated and five sporadically operated recurrent VS after primary irradiation. We compared these findings with 49 non-irradiated (36 sporadic and 13 NF2-associated) VS through gene-expression profiling and pathway analysis. Furthermore, we stained the key molecules of the distinct pathway by immunohistochemistry. A total of 195 differentially expressed genes in sporadic and NF2-related comparisons showed significant differences based on the criteria of p value < 0.05 and a two-fold change. These genes were involved in pathways that are known to be altered upon irradiation (e.g., mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling). We observed a combined downregulation of PTEN signaling and an upregulation of mTOR signaling in progressive NF2-associated VS after irradiation. Immunostainings with mTOR and PTEN antibodies confirmed the respective molecular alterations. Taken together, mTOR inhibition might be a promising therapeutic strategy in NF2-associated VS progress after irradiation.

Managing NF2-associated vestibular schwannomas in children and young adults: review of an institutional series regarding effects of surgery and bevacizumab on growth rates, tumor volume, and hearing quality

We reviewed our experience in managing of NF2-associated vestibular schwannoma (VS) in children and young adults regarding the effect of surgery and postoperative bevacizumab treatment. A total of 579 volumetric and hearing data sets were analyzed. The effect of surgery on tumor volume and growth rate was investigated in 46 tumors and on hearing function in 39 tumors. Long-term hearing follow-up behavior was compared with 20 non-operated ears in additional 15 patients. Sixteen operated VS were treated with bevacizumab. Mutation analysis of the NF2 gene was performed in 25 patients. Surgery significantly slowed down VS growth rate. Factors associated with a higher growth rate were increasing patient age, tumor volume, and constitutional truncating mutations. Immediately after surgery, functional hearing was maintained in 82% of ears. Deterioration of hearing was associated with initial hearing quality, larger tumor volumes, and larger resection amounts. Average hearing scores were initially better in the group of non-operated VS. Over time, hearing scores in both groups worsened with a similar dynamic. During bevacizumab treatment of residual tumors, four different patterns of growth were observed. Decompression of the internal auditory canal with various degrees of tumor resection decreases the postoperative tumor growth rates. Carefully tailored BAEP-guided surgery does not cause additional hearing deterioration. Secondary bevacizumab treatment showed heterogenous effects both regarding tumor size and hearing preservation. It seems that postoperative tumor residuals, that grow slower, behave differently to bevacizumab than reported for not-operated faster growing VS.

Minimal Effect of Bevacizumab Treatment on Residual Vestibular Schwannomas after Partial Resection in Young Neurofibromatosis Type 2 Patients

Hearing-preserving partial resection of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) associated vestibular schwannomas (VS) is a preferred treatment strategy, particularly for children and adolescents. However, the residual tumors do grow and lead at some point to continued hearing deterioration. An adjuvant bevacizumab treatment may provide an option for slowing down this process. In this retrospective study, we reviewed tumor volume and hearing data of 16 operated VS in nine patients younger than 30 years over a period of 63 to 142 months. All these patients had one or more bevacizumab treatment periods and most of them had a non-treatment period after surgery. Four different patterns of growth were observed for the residual tumors: (1) growth in the non-treatment periods, which slowed down in the treatment periods; (2) growth slowed down in one but not in another on-period; (3) unaffected growth; (4) no or minimal growth regardless of the treatment. Neither radiological regression of tumor volume nor hearing improvement were observed in the treatment periods. Accelerated hearing deterioration was observed in several non-treatment periods, but also in some treatment periods. No straightforward correlation can be drawn between tumor growth and hearing scores. Tumor growth and worsening of hearing between two measurement points were slightly less in the treatment periods; however, the differences were not significant, because variations were large. In conclusion, our comprehensive follow-up on 16 VS in nine NF2 patients did show heterogenous effects of bevacizumab on small residual vestibular schwannomas after surgery both regarding tumor size and hearing preservation. Thus, smaller and slower growing tumor residuals seem to behave differently to bevacizumab than reported for not-operated faster growing VS.

Multicenter, Prospective, Phase II and Biomarker Study of High-Dose Bevacizumab as Induction Therapy in Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 2 and Progressive Vestibular Schwannoma

PURPOSE

Bevacizumab treatment at 7.5 mg/kg every 3 weeks results in improved hearing in approximately 35%-40% of patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and progressive vestibular schwannomas (VSs). However, the optimal dose is unknown. In this multicenter phase II and biomarker study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of high-dose bevacizumab in pediatric and adult patients with NF2 with progressive VS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Bevacizumab was given for 6 months at 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks, followed by 18 months at 5 mg/kg every 3 weeks. The primary end point was hearing response defined by word recognition score (WRS) at 6 months. Secondary end points included toxicity, radiographic response, quality of life (QOL), and plasma biomarkers.

RESULTS

Twenty-two participants with NF2 (median age, 23 years) with progressive hearing loss in the target ear (median baseline WRS, 53%) were enrolled. Nine (41%) of 22 participants achieved a hearing response at 6 months (1 of 7 children and 8 of 15 adults; P = .08). Radiographic response was seen in 7 (32%) of 22 patients with VS at 6 months (7 of 15 adults and 0 of 7 children; P = .05). Common mild to moderate adverse events included hypertension, fatigue, headache, and irregular menstruation. Improvement in NF2-related QOL and reduction in tinnitus-related distress were reported in 30% and 60% of participants, respectively. Paradoxically, high-dose bevacizumab treatment was not associated with a significant decrease in free vascular endothelial growth factor but was associated with increased carbonic anhydrase IX, hepatocyte growth factor, placental growth factor, stromal cell-derived factor 1α, and basic fibroblast growth factor concentrations in plasma.

CONCLUSION

High-dose bevacizumab seems to be no more effective than standard-dose bevacizumab for treatment of patients with NF2 with hearing loss. In contrast to adults, pediatric participants did not experience tumor shrinkage. However, adult and pediatric participants reported similar improvement in QOL during induction. Novel approaches using bevacizumab should be considered for children with NF2.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Pediatric Vestibular Schwannomas

OBJECTIVE

To review the demographics, treatment modalities, and survival of children with vestibular schwannomas.

STUDY DESIGN

Analysis using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Pediatric patients from birth to 18 years in the SEER database were included from 2004 to 2014 based on a diagnosis of vestibular schwannoma using the primary site International Classification of Diseases (ICD) O-3 code of C72.4: acoustic nerve and the ICD O-3 histology codes of 9540/1: neurofibromatosis, Not Otherwise Specified (NOS); 9560/0: neurilemoma, NOS; or 9570/0: neuroma, NOS.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-eight pediatric vestibular schwannomas (VSs) cases were identified. The mean age at diagnosis was 13.9 years (range, 4.0-18.0). Eighty-five (57.4%) patients were women. Seventy-seven (52.0%) patients had isolated unilateral VSs while 71 (48.0%) patients had either bilateral VSs or unilateral VSs with other brain, spinal cord, or cranial nerve tumors. Eighty two (55.4%) patients received surgical resection only, 45 (30.4%) received no treatment, 6 (4.1%) received radiation only, and 12 (8.1%) received surgery and radiation. The median tumor size for patients who received no treatment was 9.5 mm (interquartile range [IQR]: 8.0) compared with 33.5 mm (IQR: 23.0) for patients who received surgical care and 41.0 mm (IQR: 1.5) for patients who received both surgery and radiation (p < 0.001). The 5-year overall survival rate was 97%.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric VSs tend to be diagnosed in adolescence. No men or women predominance was appreciated. Treatment varied according to tumor size. Survival rates for children with vestibular schwannomas are excellent. These data may assist healthcare providers when counseling children with vestibular schwannomas and their families.

Efficacy and safety of bevacizumab for vestibular schwannoma in neurofibromatosis type 2: a systematic review and meta-analysis of treatment outcomes

BACKGROUND

Individual evidence suggests that the anti-angiogenic agent bevacizumab may control vestibular schwannoma (VS) growth and promote hearing preservation in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). However, such metadata has yet to be consolidated, as well as its side-effect profile yet to be fully understood. Our aim was to pool systematically-identified metadata in the literature and substantiate the clinical efficacy and safety of bevacizumab with respect to radiographic tumor response, hearing, and treatment outcomes.

METHODS

Searches of seven electronic databases from inception to March 2019 were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Articles were screened against pre-specified criteria. The incidence of outcomes was then extracted and pooled by random-effects meta-analysis of proportions.

RESULTS

Eight articles reporting 161 NF2 patients with 196 assessable VS met satisfied all criteria. Radiographic response to bevacizumab was partial regression in 41% (95% CI 31-51%), no change in 47% (95% CI 39-55%), and tumor progression in 7% (95% CI 1-15%). In patients with assessable audiometric data, bevacizumab treatment resulted in hearing improvement in 20% (95% CI 9-33%), stability in 69% (95% CI 51-85%) and additional loss in 6% (95% CI 1-15%) Serious bevacizumab toxicity was observed in 17% (95% CI 10-26%). Subsequent surgical intervention was required in 11% (95% CI 2-20%).

CONCLUSIONS

Bevacizumab may arrest both tumor progression and hearing loss in select NF2 patients presenting with VS lesions. However, a considerable proportion of patients are anticipated to experience serious adverse events; correspondingly, judicious use of bevacizumab for symptomatic management of VS in NF2 is recommended.

Hearing Response Following Internal Auditory Canal Decompression in Neurofibromatosis Type 2

BACKGROUND

Hearing response following an osteodural decompression of the internal auditory canal (IAC) is controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the course of auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and the early hearing response during the first year following IAC decompression for small to medium-sized vestibular schwannomas occurring in neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2).

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of middle fossa craniotomy for IAC osteodural decompression in NF2-related vestibular schwannomas.

RESULTS

Twelve NF2 patients were operated on from 2011 to 2016 for IAC decompression. All had NF2 according to the Manchester criteria. All had a progressive change of their ABRs documented from the diagnosis of NF2 over a mean period of 6.25 [0.36;10.9] yr. Treatment was proposed to stop hearing progression based on the speech discrimination scores (SDSs; n = 4) or for hearing maintenance (n = 8). In patients with prior hearing progression, hearing responses were observed in 3 of the 4 patients during the first year. One patient kept on progressing. In the hearing maintenance group, the SDSs remained stable. SDSs improved from 85% [20-100] to 92.5% [60-100] on average (n = 12) and from 55% [20-80] to 77.5% [50-100] in the hearing progression group (n = 4). ABRs improved in 4 patients following decompression.

CONCLUSION

IAC decompression allows early objective hearing responses in select patients. We suggest that the procedure should be offered to patients with hearing progression based on their SDSs and/or associated progressive increases in their wave III and V latencies on ABRs.

Long-term therapy with bevacizumab in a young patient affected by NF-2: a case report and review of the literature

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2) is an autosomal dominant inherited disease caused by heterozygous mutations in the NF-2 tumor suppressor gene. It is characterized by the development of multiple benign tumors in the central nervous system. A majority of these tumors can be treated with surgery or radiotherapy in the case of the symptomatic disease. Cytotoxic chemotherapy has no established role in the treatment of NF-2. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a critical mediator of tumor angiogenesis and vessel permeability. VEGF and its receptor VEGFR-1 have been detected in schwannomas, and increased levels of these factors correlate with increased rates of tumor growth. The use of bevacizumab has made many progresses in recent years in NF-2 patients. We report a case of a young patient treated with more than 100 administration of bevacizumab, with clinical and instrumental benefits.

Bevacizumab for Hearing Preservation in Neurofibromatosis Type 2: Emphasis on Patient-Reported Outcomes and Toxicities

Objective

Bevacizumab for hearing preservation in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is an emerging practice. We set out to characterize the effectiveness and toxicity of bevacizumab in our patient group.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Seventeen consecutive patients with NF2 received bevacizumab treatment for vestibular schwannomas, including 2 patients treated to maintain cochlear implant performance. Volumetric analysis of serial magnetic resonance imaging scans was used to evaluate radiographic response, and hearing response was evaluated with serial audiograms. Patient-reported outcomes were also assessed, including subjective hearing improvement, changes in tinnitus, vertigo, headaches, ear pain, and improvement in ability to communicate via telephone.

Results

A positive radiographic response occurred in 8 of 17 (47%) patients and the median tumor volume change was a tumor decrease of 19%. A positive hearing response was recorded in 5 of 9 (56%) patients. Two patients had a word recognition score improvement over 40%. There was an approximately 40% improvement in patient-reported outcomes. Primary toxicities included hypertension, proteinuria, dysgeusia, and amenorrhea.

Conclusion

Bevacizumab treatment was followed by hearing improvement in 56% of patients, while decreased tumor volume was noted in 47%. These outcomes agree favorably with prior reported series. There were significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes that have not been described previously.

Diagnosis of sporadic neurofibromatosis type 2 in the paediatric population

OBJECTIVE

Onset of symptoms in severe sporadic neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is typically within childhood; however, there is poor awareness of presenting features in young children, potentially resulting in delayed diagnosis and poorer outcome. We have reviewed presentation of sporadic paediatric NF2 to raise awareness of early features, highlighting those requiring further investigation.

DESIGN

Patients diagnosed with NF2 at age ≤16 and seen between 2012 and 2015 were notified via the British Paediatric Neurology Surveillance Unit or identified through the English NF2 service.

RESULTS

Epidemiological data estimate that 1 in 110 611 births are affected with childhood-onset NF2. Notes of 32 patients with sporadic NF2 were reviewed. Of those presenting under the age of 5, 89% (17/19) had ocular, 74% (14/19) dermatological and 58% (11/19) neurological signs; in 84% (16/19) features were multisystemic. Sixty-six per cent (21/32) had ≥1 atypical feature, including cerebellar hypoplasia in three cases (9%) and focal cortical dysplasia in five out of seven seizure-related presentations. Five cases presented with a sometimes transient or intermittent cranial nerve mononeuropathy. The mean delay to diagnosis was 3.16 years; in eight cases (25%) this exceeded 6 years. Most significant delay occurred in mononeuropathy, ophthalmological and/or seizure presentations, with a mean delay of 3, 4.5 and 6 years, respectively. Eighty-four per cent (27/32) of cases needed intervention in childhood.

CONCLUSIONS

All non-vestibular schwannoma NF2 presentations in childhood had significant diagnostic delay. We emphasise the importance of detailed assessment of skin and eyes in unusual presentations and propose an aide to prompt timely referral to specialist services.

Childhood neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and related disorders: from bench to bedside and biologically targeted therapies

Neurofibromatosis type 2 [NF2; MIM # 101000] is an autosomal dominant disorder characterised by the occurrence of vestibular schwannomas (VSs), schwannomas of other cranial, spinal and cutaneous nerves, cranial and spinal meningiomas and/or other central nervous system (CNS) tumours (e.g., ependymomas, astrocytomas). Additional features include early onset cataracts, optic nerve sheath meningiomas, retinal hamartomas, dermal schwannomas (i.e., NF2-plaques), and (few) café-au-lait spots. Clinically, NF2 children fall into two main groups: (1) congenital NF2 - with bilateral VSs detected as early as the first days to months of life, which can be stable/asymptomatic for one-two decades and suddenly progress; and (2) severe pre-pubertal (Wishart type) NF2- with multiple (and rapidly progressive) CNS tumours other-than-VS, which usually present first, years before VSs [vs. the classical adult (Gardner type) NF2, with bilateral VSs presenting in young adulthood, sometimes as the only disease feature]. Some individuals can develop unilateral VS associated with ipsilateral meningiomas or multiple schwannomas localised to one part of the peripheral nervous system [i.e., mosaic NF2] or multiple non-VS, non-intradermal cranial, spinal and peripheral schwannomas (histologically proven) [schwannomatosis]. NF2 is caused by mutations in the NF2 gene at chromosome 22q12.1, which encodes for a protein called merlin or schwannomin, most similar to the exrin-readixin-moesin (ERM) proteins; mosaicNF2 is due to mosaic phenomena for the NF2 gene, whilst schwannomatosis is caused by coupled germ-line and mosaic mutations either in the SMARCB1 gene [SWNTS1; MIM # 162091] or the LZTR1 gene [SWNTS2; MIM # 615670] both falling within the 22q region and the NF2 gene. Data driven from in vitro and animal studies on the merlin pathway [e.g., post-translational and upstream/downstream regulation] allowed biologically targeted treatment strategies [e.g., Lapatinib, Erlotinib, Bevacizumab] aimed to multiple tumour shrinkage and/or regression and tumour arrest of progression with functional improvement.

Combination Therapy with c-Met and Src Inhibitors Induces Caspase-Dependent Apoptosis of Merlin-Deficient Schwann Cells and Suppresses Growth of Schwannoma Cells

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a nervous system tumor disorder caused by inactivation of the merlin tumor suppressor encoded by the NF2 gene. Bilateral vestibular schwannomas are a diagnostic hallmark of NF2. Mainstream treatment options for NF2-associated tumors have been limited to surgery and radiotherapy; however, off-label uses of targeted molecular therapies are becoming increasingly common. Here, we investigated drugs targeting two kinases activated in NF2-associated schwannomas, c-Met and Src. We demonstrated that merlin-deficient mouse Schwann cells (MD-MSC) treated with the c-Met inhibitor, cabozantinib, or the Src kinase inhibitors, dasatinib and saracatinib, underwent a G₁ cell-cycle arrest. However, when MD-MSCs were treated with a combination of cabozantinib and saracatinib, they exhibited caspase-dependent apoptosis. The combination therapy also significantly reduced growth of MD-MSCs in an orthotopic allograft mouse model by greater than 80% of vehicle. Moreover, human vestibular schwannoma cells with NF2 mutations had a 40% decrease in cell viability when treated with cabozantinib and saracatinib together compared with the vehicle control. This study demonstrates that simultaneous inhibition of c-Met and Src signaling in MD-MSCs triggers apoptosis and reveals vulnerable pathways that could be exploited to develop NF2 therapies. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(11); 2387-98. ©2017 AACR.

The role of the immune system in neurofibromatosis type 1-associated nervous system tumors

With the recent development of new anticancer therapies targeting the immune system, it is important to understand which immune cell types and cytokines play critical roles in suppressing or promoting tumorigenesis. The role of mast cells in promoting neurofibroma growth in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) patients was hypothesized decades ago. More recent experiments in mouse models have demonstrated the causal role of mast cells in neurofibroma development and of microglia in optic pathway glioma development. We review here what is known about the role of NF1 mutation in immune cell function and the role of immune cells in promoting tumorigenesis in NF1. We also review the therapies targeting immune cell pathways and their promise in NF1 tumors.

Pediatric neurofibromatosis type 2: clinical and molecular presentation, management of vestibular schwannomas, and hearing rehabilitation

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe the clinical and molecular presentation of pediatric neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and the subsequent management of vestibular schwannomas (VS) and hearing rehabilitation.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study of neurofibromatosis type 2 diagnosed before the age of 18 years old from 1997. Natural history of vestibular schwannomas and surgical outcomes were evaluated using volumetric MRI, hearing, and facial nerve assessment. Patients included in chemotherapy protocols were excluded.

RESULTS

From a database of 80 patients followed up for NF2 on a regular basis, 25 patients were eligible (11 sporadic cases, 14 inherited in five families). The mean age at diagnosis was 11.6 years old. The average clinical follow-up was 6.5 years. NF2 mutation was identified in 81 % of the probands. The average growth rate based on the maximum linear diameter (DGR) was 1.68 mm/year (n = 33, average follow-up 4.22 years) and 545 mm³/year in volumetric assessment (VGR) for VS larger than 1 cm (n = 21, average follow-up 3.4 years). In unoperated ears, hearing was stable in about 50 % of ears. The mean change in dB HL was 9.5 dB/year for pure-tone average and 3.5 for speech-recognition threshold (n = 34, 5.5 years 1-12). Eight children required removal through a translabyrinthine approach (mean follow-up was 4.5 years), six patients were operated on for hearing preservation (mean postoperative follow-up 4.3 years). Six patients were eligible for hearing rehabilitation with cochlear implantation (I), and five received placement of an auditory brainstem implant.

CONCLUSION

Early diagnosis and treatment of small growing VS should be carefully discussed considering familial history and possible rehabilitation with a CI.

Comparing the sensitivity of linear and volumetric MRI measurements to detect changes in the size of vestibular schwannomas in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 on bevacizumab treatment

OBJECTIVE

To compare the sensitivity of linear and volumetric measurements on MRI in detecting schwannoma progression in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 on bevacizumab treatment as well as the extent to which this depends on the size of the tumour.

METHODS

We compared retrospectively, changes in linear tumour dimensions at a range of thresholds to volumetric tumour measurements performed using Brainlab iPlan(®) software (Feldkirchen, Germany) and classified for tumour progression according to the Response Evaluation in Neurofibromatosis and Schwannomatosis (REiNS) criteria.

RESULTS

Assessment of 61 schwannomas in 46 patients with a median follow-up of 20 months (range 3-43 months) was performed. There was a mean of 7 time points per tumour (range 2-12 time points). Using the volumetric REiNS criteria as the gold standard, a sensitivity of 86% was achieved for linear measurement using a 2-mm threshold to define progression.

CONCLUSION

We propose that a change in linear measurement by 2 mm (particularly in tumours with starting diameters 20-30 mm, the majority of this cohort) could be used as a filter to identify cases of possible progression requiring volumetric analysis. This pragmatic approach can be used if stabilization of a previously growing schwannoma is sufficient for a patient to continue treatment in such a circumstance.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

We demonstrate the real-world limitations of linear vs volumetric measurement in tumour response assessment and identify limited circumstances where linear measurements can be used to determine which patients require the more resource-intensive volumetric measurements.

Bevacizumab in neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) related vestibular schwannomas: a nationally coordinated approach to delivery and prospective evaluation

Background

NF2 patients develop multiple nervous system tumors including bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS). The tumors and their surgical treatment are associated with deafness, neurological disability, and mortality.Medical treatment with bevacizumab has been reported to reduce VS growth and to improve hearing. In addition to evaluating these effects, this study also aimed to determine other important consequences of treatment including patient-reported quality of life and the impact of treatment on surgical VS rates.

Methods

Patients treated with bevacizumab underwent serial prospective MRI, audiology, clinical, CTCAE-4.0 adverse events, and NFTI-QOL quality-of-life assessments. Tumor volumetrics were classified according to the REiNs criteria and annual VS surgical rates reviewed.

Results

Sixty-one patients (59% male), median age 25 years (range, 10-57), were reviewed. Median follow-up was 23 months (range, 3-53). Partial volumetric tumor response (all tumors) was seen in 39% and 51% had stabilization of previously growing tumors. Age and pretreatment growth rate were predictors of response. Hearing was maintained or improved in 86% of assessable patients. Mean NFTI-QOL scores improved from 12.0 to 10.7 (P < .05). Hypertension was observed in 30% and proteinuria in 16%. Twelve treatment breaks occurred due to adverse events. The rates of VS surgery decreased after the introduction of bevacizumab.

Conclusion

Treatment with bevacizumab in this large, UK-wide cohort decreased VS growth rates and improved hearing and quality of life. The potential risk of surgical iatrogenic damage was also reduced due to an associated reduction in VS surgical rates. Ongoing follow-up of this cohort will determine the long-term benefits and risks of bevacizumab treatment.

Diagnosis, Management, and New Therapeutic Options in Childhood Neurofibromatosis Type 2 and Related Forms

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2; MIM # 101000) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the development of vestibular schwannomas (VSs); schwannomas of other cranial, spinal, and cutaneous nerves; cranial and spinal meningiomas or other central nervous system tumors (eg, ependymomas and astrocytomas) or both. Additional features include eye (eg, early onset cataracts, optic nerve sheath meningiomas, retinal or pigment epithelial hamartomas or both, and epithelial retinal membranes) and skin abnormalities (eg, flat dermal [NF2 plaques] or spherical subcutaneous nodular schwannomas or both, and few, atypical café-au-lait spots). Clinically, children with NF2 fall into 2 main groups: (1) congenital NF2 with bilateral VSs detected as early as the first days to months of life, which can be stable or asymptomatic for 1-2 decades and suddenly progress; and (2) severe prepubertal (Wishart type) NF2 with multiple (and rapidly progressive) central nervous system tumors other-than-VS, which usually presents first, years before VSs, both associated with more marked skin and eye involvement (vs the classical mild adult [Gardner type] NF2, with bilateral VSs presenting in young adulthood, sometimes as the only disease feature). Individuals manifesting unilateral VS associated with ipsilateral meningiomas or multiple schwannomas localized to a part of the peripheral nervous system have mosaic or segmental NF2; individuals developing multiple nonVS, nonintradermal cranial, spinal, and peripheral schwannomas (histologically proven) have schwannomatosis (SWNTS). NF2 is caused by mutations in the NF2 gene at chromosome 22q12.1, which encodes for a protein called merlin or schwannomin, most similar to the exrin-readixin-moesin proteins; mosaic or segmental NF2 is because of mosaic phenomena for the NF2 gene, whereas SWNTS is caused by germline and possibly mosaic mutations either in the SMARCB1 gene (SWNTS1; MIM # 162091) or the LZTR1 gene (SWNTS2; MIM # 615670), both falling within the 22q region. Data driven from in vitro and animal studies on the merlin pathway allowed biologically targeted treatment strategies (employing Lapatinib, Erlotinib, Everolimus, Picropodophyllin, OSU.03012, Imatinib, Sorafenib, and Bevacizumab) aimed at multiple tumor shrinkage or regression or both and tumor arrest of progression with functional improvement.