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K Nazar A, Basu S. Radiolabeled Somatostatin Analogs for Cancer Imaging. Semin Nucl Med 2024:S0001-2998(24)00058-8. [PMID: 39122608 DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Somatostatin receptors (SSTR) are expressed by many tumours especially those related to neuro-endocrine origin and molecular functional imaging of SSTR expression using radiolabelled somatostatin analogs have revolutionized imaging of patients with these group of malignancies. Coming a long way from the first radiolabelled somatostatin analog 123I-Tyr-3-octreotide, there has been significant developments in terms of radionuclides used, the ligands and somatostatin derivatives. 111In-Pentetreotide extensively employed for imaging NETs at the beginning has now been replaced by 68Ga-SSA based PET-CT. SSA-PET/CT performs superior to conventional imaging modalities and has evolved in the mainframe for NET imaging. The advantages were multiple: (i) superior spatial resolution of PET versus SPECT, (ii) quantitative capabilities of PET aiding in disease activity and treatment response monitoring with better precision, (iii) shorter scan time and (iv) less patient exposure to radiation. The modality is indicated for staging, detecting the primary in CUP-NETs, restaging, treatment planning (along with FDG: the concept of dual-tracer PET-CT) as well as treatment response evaluation and follow-up of NETs. SSA PET/CT has also been incorporated in the guidelines for imaging of Pheochromocytoma-Paraganglioma, Medullary carcinoma thyroid, Meningioma and Tumor induced osteomalacia. At present, there is rising interest on (a) 18F-labelled SSA, (b) 64Cu-labelled SSA, and (c) somatostatin antagonists. 18F offers excellent imaging properties, 64Cu makes delayed imaging feasible which has implications in dosimetry and SSTR antagonists bind with the SST receptors with high affinity and specificity, providing high contrast images with less background, which can be translated to theranostics effectively. SSTR have been demonstrated in non-neuroendocrine tumours as well in the peer-reviewed literature, with studies demonstrating the potential of SSA PET/CT in Neuroblastoma, Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, carcinoma prostate (neuroendocrine differentiation) and lymphoma. This review will focus on the currently available SSAs and their history, different SPECT/PET agents, SSTR antagonists, comparison between the various imaging tracers, and their utility in both neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamir K Nazar
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, Mumbai; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai
| | - Sandip Basu
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, Mumbai; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai.
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Haidar MB, Abou Zeid FA, Meguerian ZZ, Al-Ibraheem AN, Noun PE. False-Negative 68 Ga-FAPI PET/CT in Pediatric Thyroid Medullary Carcinoma Seen With 68 Ga-DOTATOC PET/CT and 18 F-FDG PET/CT. Clin Nucl Med 2024; 49:690-692. [PMID: 38717245 DOI: 10.1097/rlu.0000000000005259] [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: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In adults, 68 Ga-FAP inhibitor ( 68 Ga-FAPI) PET/CT outperforms 68 Ga-radiolabeled somatostatin analog peptides ( 68 Ga PET/CT) and 18 F-FDG PET/CT in detecting thyroid lesions. This is the case of a 13-year-old boy newly diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer with high calcitonin level. 68 Ga PET/CT revealed the presence of only a primary thyroid lesion. Proven to be superior in detecting metastasis, 68 Ga-FAPI PET/CT was performed. The results came out negative for primary and potential metastatic lesions. This case sheds shed light on false-negatives reported in 68 Ga-FAPI PET/CT scans in pediatric patients, emphasizing the need for alternate radiotracers when a negative study is met.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad B Haidar
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Farah A Abou Zeid
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zarouhie Z Meguerian
- Department of Pathology, Saint George, Hospital University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Akram N Al-Ibraheem
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Peter E Noun
- Department of Pediatrics, Hematology Oncology, Saint George, Hospital University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Zoi V, Giannakopoulou M, Alexiou GA, Bouziotis P, Thalasselis S, Tzakos AG, Fotopoulos A, Papadopoulos AN, Kyritsis AP, Sioka C. Nuclear Medicine and Cancer Theragnostics: Basic Concepts. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3064. [PMID: 37835806 PMCID: PMC10572920 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13193064] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer theragnostics is a novel approach that combines diagnostic imaging and radionuclide therapy. It is based on the use of a pair of radiopharmaceuticals, one optimized for positron emission tomography imaging through linkage to a proper radionuclide, and the other bearing an alpha- or beta-emitter isotope that can induce significant damage to cancer cells. In recent years, the use of theragnostics in nuclear medicine clinical practice has increased considerably, and thus investigation has focused on the identification of novel radionuclides that can bind to molecular targets that are typically dysregulated in different cancers. The major advantages of the theragnostic approach include the elimination of multi-step procedures, reduced adverse effects to normal tissues, early diagnosis, better predictive responses, and personalized patient care. This review aims to discuss emerging theragnostic molecules that have been investigated in a series of human malignancies, including gliomas, thyroid cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, cholangiocarcinoma, and prostate cancer, as well as potent and recently introduced molecular targets, like cell-surface receptors, kinases, and cell adhesion proteins. Furthermore, special reference has been made to copper radionuclides as theragnostic agents and their radiopharmaceutical applications since they present promising alternatives to the well-studied gallium-68 and lutetium-177.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Zoi
- Neurosurgical Institute, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - George A. Alexiou
- Neurosurgical Institute, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Penelope Bouziotis
- Institute of Nuclear and Radiological Sciences and Technology, Energy and Safety, National Center for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, 15341 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Andreas G. Tzakos
- Department of Chemistry, Section of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Chrissa Sioka
- Neurosurgical Institute, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
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Patel R, Marano G, Joseph J, Chung J, Plata A, Vos JA. 18 F-fludeoxyglucose positron emission computed tomography ( 18 F-FDG-PET/CT) versus 68 Ga-DOTATATE-PET/CT in patients with head and neck cancer: Comparisons and implications for treatment. Head Neck 2023; 45:347-354. [PMID: 36591637 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27243] [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: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-specific molecular imaging in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is not well established. Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are found in solid tumors, including HNSCC. 68 Ga-DOTATATE, a commercially available radionuclide that binds SSTRs, may have utility in imaging HNSCC. METHODS Patients with HNSCC received pretreatment imaging with 18 F-FDG-PET/CT and 68 Ga-DOTATATE. Imaging was compared for concordance. When available, surgical resection specimens were compared to pretreatment imaging findings. Historic HNSCC tumor specimens were assessed for both SSTR and p16/human papilloma virus (HPV) expression. RESULTS Twenty patients were imaged. Fifteen had oropharyngeal cancer. Primary tumor site was concordant between imaging modalities for all patients. One of 45 lymph nodes was discordant. Retrospective specimen review showed a significant correlation with SSTR expression and HPV/p16 expression. No adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS 68 Ga-DOTATATE imaging is safe and effective in HNSCC. SSTR expression may be increased in HPV-mediated tumors. Targeted therapies to SSTR should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rusha Patel
- Department of Otolaryngology, Oklahoma University, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States
| | - Gary Marano
- Department of Radiology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Joe Joseph
- Department of Radiology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Jeffson Chung
- Department of Otolaryngology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Andrew Plata
- Department of Pathology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Vos
- Department of Pathology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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Dadgar H, Jafari E, Ahmadzadehfar H, Rekabpour SJ, Ravanbod MR, Kalantarhormozi M, Nabipour I, Assadi M. Feasibility and therapeutic potential of the 68Ga/177Lu-DOTATATE theranostic pair in patients with metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2023; 84:45-51. [PMID: 36126757 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed: 1) the clinical efficacy of imaging with 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT (SSTR (somatostatin receptor)-PET) to detect medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC); and 2) the therapeutic efficacy of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with 177Lu-DOTATATE in MTC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with histologically proven MTC and suspected recurrence following thyroidectomy, based on raised serum calcitonin levels, underwent SSTR-PET. In addition, to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of PRRT, the patients with intense uptake on SSTR-PET or 99mTc-octreotide scintigraphy underwent PRRT. The Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.03) was used to grade adverse events after PRRT. Treatment response was classified as complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), and progressive disease (PD). RESULTS Twenty MTC patients (10 male, 10 female) with a median age of 48.5 years underwent SSTR-PET. SSTR-PET was positive in 17/20 patients (85%). Four of the 17 patients with positive SSTR-PET were scheduled for PRRT. In addition, 2 patients had positive 99mTc-octreotide scintigraphy results (Krenning score ≥ 2) and were scheduled for PRRT. Two of the 6 patients who underwent PRRT showed PR, 2 SD and 2 PD. Two patients died during the follow-up period. Median overall survival was 19 months (95% CI: 5.52-29.48). There were no cases of significant toxicity. CONCLUSION Radiolabeled somatostatin analogs are contributive for the management of recurrent MTC. 68Ga-DOTATAE PET-CT showed a relatively high detection rate in recurrent MTC. In addition, PRRT with 177Lu-DOTATATE was found to be a safe alternative therapeutic option for MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habibollah Dadgar
- Cancer Research Center, Imam Reza International University, RAZAVI Hospital, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Esmail Jafari
- The Persian Gulf Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | | | | | - Mohammad Reza Ravanbod
- Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr Medical University Hospital, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Kalantarhormozi
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Endocrinology), Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Iraj Nabipour
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Endocrinology), Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Majid Assadi
- The Persian Gulf Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Thyroid cancers are endocrine neoplasms with diverse gene expression and behavior, for which constantly evolving anatomic and functional imaging/theranostic agents have an essential role for diagnosis, staging, and treatment. RECENT FINDINGS To achieve definitive diagnosis, neck ultrasound and associated risk stratification systems, notably Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS), allow improved thyroid nodule characterization and management guidance. Radioactive iodine-131 (RAI) has long played a role in management of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), with recent literature emphasizing its effectiveness for intermediate-high risk cancers, exploring use of dosimetry for personalized medicine, and potential for retreatment with RAI following tumor redifferentiation. Iodine-124 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has promising application for DTC staging and dosimetry. F18-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT is used for staging of high risk DTC and identification of noniodine-avid disease recurrences, with metabolic uptake consistently portending poor prognosis. Poorly differentiated and anaplastic thyroid cancers are best assessed with anatomic imaging and F18-FDG PET/ CT, though recent studies show a potential theranostic role for Ga68/Lu177-prostate-specific membrane antigen. Medullary thyroid cancers are evaluated with ultrasound, CT, magnetic resonance imaging, and various positron-emitting radiotracers for PET imaging (F18-DOPA, F18-FDG, and recently Ga68-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA)-octreotate (DOTATATE)); the latter may enable treatment with Lu177-DOTATATE. SUMMARY Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to streamline appropriate management, given the wide array of available imaging and new therapies for metabolic and genetically complex cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly E. Roseland
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Body Imaging, Department of Radiology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yuni K. Dewaraja
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ka Kit Wong
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Serfling SE, Zhi Y, Megerle F, Fassnacht M, Buck AK, Lapa C, Werner RA. Somatostatin receptor-directed molecular imaging for therapeutic decision-making in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma. Endocrine 2022; 78:169-176. [PMID: 35751778 PMCID: PMC9474330 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03116-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatostatin receptor (SSTR) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is increasingly deployed in the diagnostic algorithm of patients affected with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). We aimed to assess the role of SSTR-PET/CT for therapeutic decision making upon restaging. METHODS 23 pretreated MTC patients underwent SSTR-PET/CT and were discussed in our interdisciplinary tumor board. Treatment plans were initiated based on scan results. By comparing the therapeutic regimen before and after the scan, we assessed the impact of molecular imaging on therapy decision. SSTR-PET was also compared to CT portion of the SSTR-PET/CT (as part of hybrid imaging). RESULTS SSTR-PET/CT was superior in 9/23 (39.1%) subjects when compared to conventional CT and equivalent in 14/23 (60.9%). Those findings were further corroborated on a lesion-based level with 27/73 (37%) metastases identified only by functional imaging (equivalent to CT in the remaining 46/73 (63%)). Investigating therapeutic decision making, no change in treatment was initiated after PET/CT in 7/23 (30.4%) patients (tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), 4/7 (57.2%); surveillance, 3/7 (42.8%)). Imaging altered therapy in the remaining 16/23 (69.6%). Treatment prior to PET/CT included surgery in 6/16 (37.5%) cases, followed by TKI in 4/16 (25%), active surveillance in 4/16 (25%), and radiation therapy (RTx) in 2/16 (12.5%) subjects. After SSTR-PET/CT, the therapeutic regimen was changed as follows: In the surgery group, 4/6 (66.7%) patients underwent additional surgery, and 1/6 (16.7%) underwent surveillance and TKI, respectively. In the TKI group, 3/4 (75%) individuals received another TKI and the remaining subject (1/4, 25%) underwent peptide receptor radionuclide therapy. In the surveillance group, 3/4 (75%) underwent surgery (1/4, (25%), RTx). In the RTx group, one patient was switched to TKI and another individual was actively monitored (1/2, 50%, respectively). Moreover, in the 16 patients in whom treatment was changed by molecular imaging, control disease rate was achieved in 12/16 (75%) during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In patients with MTC, SSTR-PET/CT was superior to CT alone and provided relevant support in therapeutic decision-making in more than two thirds of cases, with most patients being switched to surgical interventions or systemic treatment with TKI. As such, SSTR-PET/CT can guide the referring treating physician towards disease-directed treatment in various clinical scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian E Serfling
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Yingjun Zhi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Felix Megerle
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Fassnacht
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas K Buck
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Constantin Lapa
- Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf A Werner
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, The Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Update on the Diagnosis and Management of Medullary Thyroid Cancer: What Has Changed in Recent Years? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153643. [PMID: 35892901 PMCID: PMC9332800 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a neoplasm originating from parafollicular C cells. MTC is a rare disease, but its prognosis is less favorable than that of well-differentiated thyroid cancers. To improve the prognosis of patients with MTC, early diagnosis and prompt therapeutic management are crucial. In the following paper, recent advances in laboratory and imaging diagnostics and also pharmacological and surgical therapies of MTC are discussed. Currently, a thriving direction of development for laboratory diagnostics is immunohistochemistry. The primary imaging modality in the diagnosis of MTC is the ultrasound, but opportunities for development are seen primarily in nuclear medicine techniques. Surgical management is the primary method of treating MTCs. There are numerous publications concerning the stratification of particular lymph node compartments for removal. With the introduction of more effective methods of intraoperative parathyroid identification, the complication rate of surgical treatment may be reduced. The currently used pharmacotherapy is characterized by high toxicity. Moreover, the main limitation of current pharmacotherapy is the development of drug resistance. Currently, there is ongoing research on the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), highly specific RET inhibitors, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. These new therapies may improve the prognosis of patients with MTCs.
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Adnan A, Raju S, Kumar R, Basu S. An Appraisal and Update of Fluorodeoxyglucose and Non-Fluorodeoxyglucose-PET Tracers in Thyroid and Non-Thyroid Endocrine Neoplasms. PET Clin 2022; 17:343-367. [PMID: 35717097 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpet.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine neoplasms and malignancies are a diverse group of tumors with varied clinical, histopathologic, and functional features. These tumors vary from sporadic to hereditary, isolated entities to multiple neoplastic syndromes, functioning and non functioning tumors, unifocal locally invasive, and advanced to multifocal tumors with disseminated distant metastases. The presence of various specific biomarkers and specific receptor targets serves as valuable tools for diagnosis, prognosis, and management. PET-CT with FDG and a multitude of novel and specific radiotracers towards specific therapeutic targets mandates personalization of their use, so as to ensure maximum clinical benefit in the management of these neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aadil Adnan
- Radiation Medicine Centre (B.A.R.C), Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, Parel, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Shobhana Raju
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandip Basu
- Radiation Medicine Centre (B.A.R.C), Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, Parel, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India.
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Walgama E, Busaidy N, Zafereo M. Novel Therapeutics and Treatment Strategies for Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2022; 51:379-389. [PMID: 35662447 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer is a rare thyroid malignancy with unique management considerations. In general, small intrathyroidal tumors are cured by total thyroidectomy with central compartment dissection, while large tumors and those with disease spread to regional lymph nodes and distant organs (most commonly lung, liver, and bone) are more difficult to cure. The last decade has seen significant progress in the treatment of advanced MTC, largely due to the discovery and availability of novel targeted therapies, including new drugs specifically targeting the RET protooncogone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Walgama
- Saint John's Cancer Institute & Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Providence Health System, 2125 Arizona Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Naifa Busaidy
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard #853, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mark Zafereo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard Unit 1445, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Giovanella L, Deandreis D, Vrachimis A, Campenni A, Petranovic Ovcaricek P. Molecular Imaging and Theragnostics of Thyroid Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1272. [PMID: 35267580 PMCID: PMC8909041 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular imaging plays an important role in the evaluation and management of different thyroid cancer histotypes. The existing risk stratification models can be refined, by incorporation of tumor-specific molecular markers that have theranostic power, to optimize patient-specific (individualized) treatment decisions. Molecular imaging with varying radioisotopes of iodine (i.e., 131I, 123I, 124I) is an indispensable component of dynamic and theragnostic risk stratification of differentiated carcinoma (DTC) while [18F]F-fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) helps in addressing disease aggressiveness, detects distant metastases, and risk-stratifies patients with radioiodine-refractory DTC, poorly differentiated and anaplastic thyroid cancers. For medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), a neuroendocrine tumor derived from thyroid C-cells, [18F]F-dihydroxyphenylalanine (6-[18F]FDOPA) PET/CT and/or [18F]FDG PET/CT can be used dependent on serum markers levels and kinetics. In addition to radioiodine therapy for DTC, some theragnostic approaches are promising for metastatic MTC as well. Moreover, new redifferentiation strategies are now available to restore uptake in radioiodine-refractory DTC while new theragnostic approaches showed promising preliminary results for advanced and aggressive forms of follicular-cell derived thyroid cancers (i.e., peptide receptor radiotherapy). In order to help clinicians put the role of molecular imaging into perspective, the appropriate role and emerging opportunities for molecular imaging and theragnostics in thyroid cancer are discussed in our present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Giovanella
- Clinic for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Imaging Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Desiree’ Deandreis
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Alexis Vrachimis
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Oncology Center, University Hospital of the European University, Limassol 4108, Cyprus;
| | - Alfredo Campenni
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho-Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98121 Messina, Italy;
| | - Petra Petranovic Ovcaricek
- Department of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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Jager EC, Broekman KE, Kruijff S, Links TP. State of the art and future directions in the systemic treatment of medullary thyroid cancer. Curr Opin Oncol 2022; 34:1-8. [PMID: 34669647 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic treatment is the only therapeutic option for patients with progressive, metastatic medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Since the discovery of the rearranged during transfection (RET) proto-oncogene (100% hereditary, 60-90% sporadic MTC), research has focused on finding effective systemic therapies to target this mutation. This review surveys recent findings. RECENT FINDINGS Multikinase inhibitors are systemic agents targeting angiogenesis, inhibiting growth of tumor cells and cells in the tumor environment and healthy endothelium. In the phase III EXAM and ZETA trials, cabozantinib and vandetanib showed progression-free survival benefit, without evidence of prolonged overall survival. Selpercatinib and pralsetinib are kinase inhibitors with high specificity for RET; phase I and II studies showed overall response rates of 73% and 71% in first line, and 69% and 60% in second line treatment, respectively. Although resistance mechanisms to mutation-driven therapy will be a challenge in the future, phase III studies are ongoing and neo-adjuvant therapy with selpercatinib is being studied. SUMMARY The development of selective RET-inhibitors has expanded the therapeutic arsenal to control tumor growth in progressive MTC, with fewer adverse effects than multikinase inhibitors. Future studies should confirm their effectiveness, study neo-adjuvant strategies, and tackle resistance to these inhibitors, ultimately to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Schelto Kruijff
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Asa S, Sonmezoglu K, Uslu-Besli L, Sahin OE, Karayel E, Pehlivanoglu H, Sager S, Kabasakal L, Ocak M, Sayman HB. Evaluation of F-18 DOPA PET/CT in the detection of recurrent or metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma: comparison with GA-68 DOTA-TATE PET/CT. Ann Nucl Med 2021; 35:900-915. [PMID: 33993425 DOI: 10.1007/s12149-021-01627-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE PET imaging with F-18 DOPA (FDOPA) and Ga-68 DOTATATE (TATE) shows the most promising results to detect medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) recurrence. We performed this comparative study to detect the site of recurrent or metastatic disease in MTC patients with elevated serum calcitonin (Ctn) and/or carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels. METHODS We studied 46 MTC patients (25 women, 21 men) with elevated Ctn and/or CEA levels during follow-up who had both FDOPA and TATE PET/CT scans for re-staging purposes. RESULTS FDOPA PET imaging yielded an overall sensitivity of 86.8%, specificity of 100%, PPV of 100%, NPV of 61.5%, and accuracy of 89.1%, while TATE PET scan had the same values as 84.2%, 87.5%, 96.9%, 53.8%, and 84.6%, respectively, and there was no statistically significant difference between the two modalities with the exception of the specificity value that was higher for FDOPA imaging. In a subgroup of patients with overt Ctn or CEA elevation, sensitivity of FDOPA increased significantly, whereas TATE sensitivity did not change. FDOPA PET imaging was significantly superior in detecting liver and regional lymph node (LN) metastases, while TATE PET scan was significantly better in the skeletal metastases. Early FDOPA demonstrated 11 invisible lesions on late FDOPA. CONCLUSION Both FDOPA and TATE PET/CT imaging are useful to localize recurrences in MTC patients. While TATE imaging is superior to reveal skeletal disease, FDOPA seems better in liver and regional LN metastases; therefore, the two modalities appear complementary in monitoring MTC patients with elevated serum Ctn and/or CEA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sertac Asa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kerim Sonmezoglu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Lebriz Uslu-Besli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Onur Erdem Sahin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emre Karayel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Pehlivanoglu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sait Sager
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Levent Kabasakal
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Meltem Ocak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Beyazit, 34116, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Haluk B Sayman
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
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