Primary cytoreductive surgery for advanced stage endometrial cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Lymph node dissection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy improves overall survival in clinical stage III endometrial cancer

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether performing a lymph node dissection during hysterectomy improves overall survival in patients with clinical stage III endometrial cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried to identify all patients with clinical stage III endometrial cancer who had undergone pre-operative chemotherapy as first course of treatment followed by hysterectomy with or without lymph node dissection between the years 2004 and 2020. Univariable and multivariable models were performed to investigate prognostic factors on overall survival.

RESULTS

This study analyzed 2882 patients with clinical stage III endometrial cancer who received upfront chemotherapy. Among those who underwent lymph node dissection, 38% had positive lymph nodes. Factors found to be independently associated with improved survival included lymph node dissection (p<0.001), adjuvant radiation (p<0.001), histology (p<0.001), tumor grade (p<0.001), pathologic node status (p<0.001), age (p<0.001), type of insurance (p=0.027), and race (p<0.001). Patients who underwent lymph node dissection at time of hysterectomy had a significantly better overall survival (107 vs 85 months; p<0.001). Multivariate and propensity score analyses robustly demonstrated that lymph node dissection significantly improved overall survival (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.84, p<0.001), even among patients with pathologically negative lymph nodes.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that performing lymph node dissection at the time of hysterectomy is associated with improved overall survival in all patients with stage III endometrial cancer who receive upfront chemotherapy, regardless of age, race, insurance status, histologic subtype, tumor grade, pathologic node status, adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy. Notably, patients with high-risk disease may particularly benefit from this approach.

Translating biological insights into improved management of endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynaecological cancer among women in high-income countries, with both incidence and mortality continuing to increase. The complexity of the management of patients with EC has evolved with greater comprehension of the underlying biology and heterogeneity of this disease. With a growing number of novel therapeutic agents available, emerging treatment regimens seem to have the potential to help to address the concerning trends in EC-related mortality. In this Review, we describe the epidemiology, histopathology and molecular classification of EC as well as the role of the new (2023) International Federation of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (FIGO) staging model. Furthermore, we provide an overview of disease management in the first-line and recurrent disease settings. With increasing use of molecular profiling and updates in treatment paradigms, we also summarize new developments in this rapidly changing treatment landscape.

Survival benefit of cytoreductive surgery in patients with primary stage IV endometrial cancer: a systematic review & meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the survival outcomes following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in patients with primary stage IV endometrial cancer (EC).

METHODS

We systematically searched the Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Web of Science for original studies reporting survival outcomes of primary stage IV EC after complete, optimal, and incomplete CRS. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) comparing optimal CRS with incomplete CRS were calculated using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and the Q-test.

RESULTS

Twelve studies, including 748 patients, were analysed. 187 patients underwent complete CRS, and 146 patients optimal CRS. Ten studies reported a significant OS benefit after complete (18-48 months) and optimal CRS (13-34 months) compared to incomplete CRS (7-19 months). A benefit was also observed in patients with serous EC or extra- abdominal metastasis. Meta-analysis showed improved OS after complete/optimal vs. incomplete CRS (HR = 0.38, 95% CI 0.21-0.69, p = 0.0016). Heterogeneity was substantial between studies (I2 = 76.7%, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Our study supports considering CRS in all patients with primary stage IV EC if complete resection is deemed feasible, while also emphasizing the importance of weighing the harms and benefits of this extensive treatment and adopting shared decision-making.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

CRD42022302968 on May 10th, 2022.

Modified posterior pelvic exenteration combined with ileocecal resection for locally advanced endometrial cancer

There are several retrospective studies which have suggested that optimal cytoreductive surgery for stage IV endometrial cancer improves survival [1-3]. In addition, some investigators have reported that achieving maximal cytoreduction to a visibly disease-free outcome in the abdominal cavity for endometrial cancer with distant metastases can extend patients' survival [4]. Due to the anatomic proximity of the rectosigmoid colon to the female pelvic organs and its involvement in locally advanced endometrial cancer, an en bloc resection of the uterus, adnexa, and rectosigmoid, also known as a modified posterior pelvic exenteration (MPPE), is performed to achieve optimal cytoreduction [5,6]. Additionally, if the tumor has infiltrated the ileal end and/or cecum, ileocecal resection can be added. I report the details of the technique for this surgery requiring intestinal reconstruction. We routinely placed a transanal drainage tube after a MPPE to decrease the rate of anastomotic leakage and the need for a diverting stoma [7]. No visible tumors were observed after surgery. No intraoperative or early postoperative complications occurred. The patient did not have an impediment in her postoperative bladder and bowel function. Concerning the extent of hysterectomy during surgery, the procedure was performed as described in that of a class II hysterectomy [8]. This might partly explain the preservation of these function. Subsequently, she was treated with 6 cycles of doxorubicin and cisplatin chemotherapy. Two years after surgery, she is alive with no evidence of recurrence. The patient provided informed consent for use of this video.

Controversies in the Surgical Management of Gynecologic Cancer: Balancing the Decision to Operate or Hesitate

Cancer outcomes are largely measured in terms of disease-free survival or overall survival, which is highly dependent on timely diagnosis and access to treatment methods available within the country's existing health care system. Although cancer survival rates have markedly led in the past few decades, any improvement in the 5-year survival of gynecologic cancers has been modest, as in the case of ovarian and cervical cancers, or has declined, as in the case of endometrial cancer. The lack of effective screening options contributes to many women presenting with advanced-stage disease and the need for radical approaches to treatment. Although treatment for early-stage disease can lead to a cure, advanced-stage disease is fraught with a high potential for morbidity and mortality, and recent clinical trials have aimed to assess the noninferiority of minimally invasive options versus aggressive surgical approaches. Of particular interest is fertility-sparing treatments for endometrial and cervical cancers, which have recently been on the rise among younger women. Balancing morbidity with the risk of mortality, and loss of fertility and quality of life requires a targeted patient-centered approach to treatment. This is an ongoing area of intense research and sometimes may challenge current treatment paradigms. In this two-part review, we present an overview of current approaches to gynecologic cancer treatment and the need to de-escalate radical surgical approaches and preserve fertility. We also review the intricacies of ovarian and advanced endometrial cancer treatment, exploring the nuances in surgical debulking timing and its impact on outcomes.

Range of Resection in Endometrial Cancer-Clinical Issues of Made-to-Measure Surgery

Endometrial cancer (EC) poses a significant health issue among women, and its incidence has been rising for a couple of decades. Surgery remains its principal treatment method and may have a curative, staging, or palliative aim. The type and extent of surgery depends on many factors, and the risks and benefits should be carefully weighed. While simple hysterectomy might be sufficient in early stage EC, modified-radical hysterectomy is sometimes indicated. In advanced disease, the evidence suggests that, similarly to ovarian cancer, optimal cytoreduction improves survival rate. The role of lymphadenectomy in EC patients has long been a controversial issue. The rationale for systematic lymphadenectomy and the procedure of the sentinel lymph node biopsy are thoroughly discussed. Finally, the impact of the molecular classification and new International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system on EC treatment is outlined. Due to the increasing knowledge on the pathology and molecular features of EC, as well as the new advances in the adjuvant therapies, the surgical management of EC has become more complex. In the modern approach, it is essential to adjust the extent of the surgery to a specific patient, ensuring an optimal, made-to-measure personalized surgery. This narrative review focuses on the intricacies of surgical management of EC and aims at summarizing the available literature on the subject, providing an up-to-date clinical guide.

Incidence, risk factors, and a prognostic nomogram for distant metastasis in endometrial cancer: A SEER-based study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the metastatic pattern, identify the risk factors, and establish a nomogram for predicting prognosis of endometrial cancer (EC) with distant metastasis.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of women diagnosed with EC was conducted according to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database during 2010-2017. Multivariate logistic analysis and Cox analysis were performed to identify the risk factors in promoting distant metastasis and predictors associated with overall survival (OS) in this particular subpopulation. A nomogram was then constructed and validated by the concordance index (C-index), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration plots, and decision curve analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 2799 cases of distant metastasis in EC patients were identified, with an overall incidence rate of 3.74% from 2010 to 2017. Black race, unmarried status, non-endometrioid histologic types, and grade IV were significant risk factors for distant metastasis in EC patients. Meanwhile, race, histology, grade, metastasis status, surgery, lymphadenectomy, and chemotherapy were identified as independent prognostic factors for OS. A nomogram to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS was established, and presented favorable accuracy and clinical applicability. Patients were further divided into high- and low-risk groups according to the model.

CONCLUSION

The nomogram was developed as a highly accurate, individualized tool to better predict the prognosis of EC patients with distant metastasis, which would help clinicians to identify high-risk patients, and adjust and tailor their treatment strategies.

Role of endometrial sampling to differentiate between advanced endometrial versus ovarian malignancy: retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Distinguishing between advanced stage endometrial and ovarian cancer at diagnosis can be challenging, especially when patients do not present with abnormal uterine bleeding. Given emerging systemic therapies specific for ovarian versus endometrial cancers, it has become increasingly critical to establish the correct diagnosis at presentation to ensure appropriate treatment. This study evaluates the frequency with which advanced endometrial cancer is mistakenly presumed to be ovarian cancer.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of patients with a final diagnosis of advanced endometrial cancer treated consecutively at a single academic institution between 2013 and 2022. Variables abstracted included abnormal uterine bleeding, endometrial sampling, and timing of endometrial cancer diagnosis. We quantified incorrect diagnoses made after 2018, when frontline targeted treatments differentiating advanced endometrial from advanced ovarian cancer became available.

RESULTS

We identified 270 patients with an ultimate diagnosis of stage III or IV endometrial cancer. The most common presenting symptom was abnormal uterine bleeding (219/270, 81%), followed by abdominal or pelvic pain (48/270, 18%) and bloating (27/270, 10%). Forty-eight patients (18%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, of whom 11 (23%) had an incorrect diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Since 2018, six patients have received neoadjuvant chemotherapy for presumed ovarian cancer, three of whom received a systemic regimen specific for ovarian cancer when they, in fact, had endometrial cancer.

CONCLUSION

In patients with presumed advanced ovarian cancer dispositioned to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, endometrial sampling can identify some cases that are actually primary endometrial cancers. Correct diagnosis guides the use of appropriate antineoplastic therapies, optimizing response and survival outcomes while minimizing toxicity and cost of unindicated therapies.

An analysis of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy versus chemotherapy on the survival rates for patients with stage IB-III uterine serous carcinoma

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether a combination of chemotherapy plus radiotherapy was able to increase the overall survival rates compared with chemotherapy alone in stage IB-III uterine serous carcinoma. A total of 1096 patients (593 who had not received radiotherapy, and 503 who had) with primary stage IB-III uterine serous carcinoma who underwent surgery and received chemotherapy were included in the present study. The Kaplan-Meier method and Log-Rank tests showed that radiotherapy did not increase 5-year overall survival rates compared with the no-radiotherapy groups (52.3 cf. 50.8%, respectively; P = 0.641). Cox regression analysis subsequently corroborated that radiotherapy did not affect the 5-year overall survival rate (P = 0.635). Patients who were aged ≥ 60 years had a higher mortality rate [hazard ratio (HR), 1.712; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.385-2.117; P < 0.05]. The 5-year overall survival rates were found to be lower in the groups where the regional lymph nodes had not been removed (HR 0.645; 95% CI 0.508-0.821; P < 0.05). Chemotherapy plus radiotherapy was found to not be associated with improved 5-year overall survival rates. However, chemotherapy may be a better treatment option for patients with primary stage IB-III uterine serous carcinoma who have undergone surgery.

Recent Advances in Endometrial Cancer Prevention, Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Endometrial cancer is the sixth commonest cancer in women worldwide, with over 417,000 diagnoses in 2020. The disease incidence has increased by 132% over the last 30 years and is set to continue to rise in response to an ageing population and increasing global rates of obesity and diabetes. A greater understanding of the mechanisms driving endometrial carcinogenesis has led to the identification of potential strategies for primary disease prevention, although prospective evaluation of their efficacy within clinical trials is still awaited. The early diagnosis of endometrial cancer is associated with improved survival, but has historically relied on invasive endometrial sampling. New, minimally invasive tests using protein and DNA biomarkers and cytology have the potential to transform diagnostic pathways and to allow for the surveillance of high-risk populations. The molecular classification of endometrial cancers has been shown to not only have a prognostic impact, but also to have therapeutic value and is increasingly used to guide adjuvant treatment decisions. Advanced and recurrent disease management has also been revolutionised by increasing the use of debulking surgery and targeted treatments, particularly immunotherapy. This review summarises the recent advances in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of endometrial cancer and seeks to identify areas for future research.

Robotic-assisted para-aortic lymphadenectomy: Technique and indications in gynecological oncology

The benefits of minimally-invasive surgeries have been documented, and they have been established as the preferred approach for gynecological surgeries. With the development of robotic surgery, many highly complex surgeries can benefit from these advantages. Due to the complexity of aortocaval lymphadenectomy, surgical technique protocols have been described to reduce risks by maximizing benefits. We describe the technique using five ports (4 robotic arms and an assistant) to work the upper abdominal field, and different instruments recommended in each of their positions to reduce errors and optimize surgical time. After the "step by step" description, we summarize indications of aortocaval lymphadenectomy for every gynecological cancer in different stages.

Comparison of Single-Port Laparoscopy with Other Surgical Approaches in Endometrial Cancer Surgical Staging: Propensity-Score-Matched Analysis

This single-institution, retrospective study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of single-port, multi-port, and robot-assisted laparoscopy, as well as laparotomy, in patients with endometrial cancer who underwent surgical staging between January 2006 and December 2017. This study evaluated various parameters, including disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), recurrence rate (RR), recurrence site, and intra- and postoperative complications. Propensity score matching was performed to account for baseline characteristics, and a total of 881 patients were included in the analysis. The 3-year DFS of single-port laparoscopy was similar to that of the other groups, but laparotomy exhibited a lower 3-year DFS compared to multi-port (p = 0.001) and robot-assisted (p = 0.031) laparoscopy. Single-port laparoscopy resulted in a significantly higher 3-year OS than laparotomy (p = 0.013). After propensity score matching, the four groups demonstrated similar survival outcomes (3-year DFS: p = 0.533; 3-year OS: p = 0.328) and recurrence rates (10.3%, 12.1%, 10.3%, and 15.9% in the single-port, multi-port, and robot-assisted laparoscopy and laparotomy groups, respectively, p = 0.552). Recurrence most commonly occurred in distant organs. The single-port laparoscopy group had the longest operative time (205.1 ± 76.9 min) but the least blood loss (69.5 ± 90.8 mL) and the shortest postoperative hospital stay (5.2 ± 2.3 days). In contrast, the laparotomy group had the shortest operative time (163.4 ± 51.0 min) but the highest blood loss (368.3 ± 326.4 mL) and the longest postoperative hospital stay (10.3 ± 4.6 days). The transfusion rate was 0% in the single-port laparoscopy group and 3.7% in the laparotomy group. Notably, the laparotomy group had the highest wound complication rate (p = 0.001), whereas no wound hernias were observed in the three minimally invasive approaches. In conclusion, the survival outcomes were comparable between the methods, with the benefit of lower blood loss and shorter hospital stay observed in the single-port laparoscopy group. This study suggests that single-port laparoscopy is a feasible approach for endometrial cancer surgical staging.

Optimal Management for Stage IVB Endometrial Cancer: A Systematic Review

(1) Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common gynecological malignancy, often diagnosed at an early stage with a high overall survival rate. Surgical treatment is the primary approach, guided by pathological and molecular characteristics. Stage IVB EC, characterized by intra and/or extra-abdominal metastasis, presents a significant challenge with no clear consensus on optimal management. (2) Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted from January to May 2023, covering studies from 2000 to 2023. Eligible studies included retrospective case series, prospective trials, and randomized clinical trials. (3) Results: Of 116 studies identified, 21 were deemed relevant: 7 on primary surgery, 10 on neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT), and 4 on adjuvant treatment. Notably, the impact of residual tumor after primary surgery was a critical factor affecting survival. The use of NACT followed by interval debulking surgery showed promise, particularly in cases deemed unresectable. Adjuvant treatment, combining radiotherapy and chemotherapy, demonstrated improved survival but lacked consensus regarding its role. (4) Conclusions: Stage IVB EC poses a complex challenge with limited evidence to guide management. Optimal cytoreduction remains crucial, and NACT should be considered for unresectable cases. Multimodality adjuvant therapy may benefit patients, even with disease spread beyond the pelvis. Future advances in molecular classification and targeted therapies are expected to enhance treatment strategies.

Therapeutic approaches in patients with bone metastasis due to endometrial carcinoma - A systematic review

Background

Bone metastases (BM) are uncommon in endometrial carcinoma (EC), without information on the optimal oncologic management of patients with BM in EC. Here, we systematically review clinical characteristics, treatment approaches and prognosis in patients with BM in EC.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search until 27th March 2022 on PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and clinicaltrials.gov. Outcomes included treatment frequency and survival after BM with comparators being treatment approaches (local cytoreductive bone surgery, systemic therapy, and local radiotherapy). Risk of bias was assessed using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool and Navigation Guide methodology.

Results

We retrieved 1096 records of which 112 retrospective studies (12 cohort studies, 12/12 fair quality; 100 case studies, 100/100 low quality) with a total of 1566 patients were included. The majority had a primary diagnosis of FIGO stage IV, grade 3 endometrioid EC. Singular BM were present in a median of 39.2%, multiple BM in 60.8% and synchronous additional distant metastases in 48.1% of patients respectively. In patients with secondary BM median time to bone recurrence was 14 months. Median survival after BM was 12 months. Local cytoreductive bone surgery was assessed in 7/13 cohorts and performed in a median of 15.8% (interquartile range [IQR] 10.3-43.0) of patients. Chemotherapy was assessed in 11/13 cohorts and administered in a median of 55.5% (IQR 41.0-63.9), hormonal therapy (7/13 cohorts) in 24.7% (IQR 16.3-36.0), and osteooncologic therapy (4/13 cohorts) in 2.7% (IQR 0.0-7.5) of patients respectively. Local radiotherapy was assessed in 9/13 cohorts and performed in a median of 66.7% (IQR 55.6-70.0) of patients. Survival benefits were seen in 2/3 cohorts after local cytoreductive bone surgery, and in 2/7 cohorts after chemotherapy without survival benefits in the remaining cohorts and investigated therapies. Limitations include the lack of controlled intervention studies, the heterogeneity and retrospective nature of the investigated populations.

Conclusions

This systematic review shows heterogenous therapeutic approaches in clinical practice without clear evidence for optimal oncologic management for patients with BM in EC.

Targeted Treatment of Advanced Endometrial Cancer: Focus on Pembrolizumab

Endometrial cancer (EC) accounts for 2% of all new cancers. Advanced forms have a poor prognosis with barely 17% 5-year survival. The last few years improved our knowledge of EC with a new molecular classification derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). They are now divided between POLE mutant, Microsatellite Instability High (MSI-H) or deficient in Mismatch Repair System (dMMR), TP53 mutant and no specific molecular profile. Until now, treatments for advanced EC have included conventional platinum-based chemotherapy or hormonotherapy. The revolution in oncology represented by the advent of immune checkpoints inhibitors (ICI) has also led to a major advance in the management of recurrent and metastatic EC. Pembrolizumab, a well-known anti PD-1, has firstly been approved as monotherapy in the second-line setting for dMMR/MSI-H advanced EC. More recently, a combination of lenvatinib with pembrolizumab offered a new effective option in the second line setting irrespectively of the MMR status, giving a new opportunity for these patients who had no actual standard of care before. This combination is currently being evaluated as frontline therapy. Despite exciting results, the main problem in identifying solid biomarkers remains unresolved and further investigations are required. New original combinations of pembrolizumab with other drugs including chemotherapy, poly ADPribose polymerase inhibitors (PARP-i) or tyrosine kinase inhibitors are being tested and promise exciting new therapeutic evolutions in a close future.

Recommandations pour la pratique clinique Nice/Saint-Paul-de-Vence 2022–2023 : prise en charge du cancer de l'endomètre localisé

Recommendations for clinical practice, Nice/Saint-Paul-de-Vence 2022-2023: Management of localized endometrial cancer Endometrial cancer is the most frequent gynecological cancers in industrialized countries and its incidence increases. The newmolecularclassification allows determination of the risk of recurrence and helps orienting therapeutic management. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment. Minimally invasive approach must be preferred for stages I and II. Surgery includes hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy, sentinel lymph node biopsy even in high risk diseases and omentectomy for non-endometrioid tumors (except in case of clear cells tumors). Fertility preservation can be proposed in low grade, stage I tumors without myometrial involvement. In stage III/IV disease, lymph node debulking without totallymphadenectomy is indicated. In case of peritoneal carcinomatosis, first-line cytoreductive surgery is recommended if complete resection can be achieved. Adjuvant therapy is not recommended in low risk tumors. In intermediate risk tumors, curietherapy is indicated. In tumors with high-intermediate risk, curietherapy and external radiotherapy are indicated according to prognostic factors (stage II, lymphovascular invasion); adjuvant chemotherapy can be considered on a case-by-case basis. In high risk tumors, chemotherapy and external radiotherapy are recommended using a concomitant or sequential approach.

Uterine Neoplasms, Version 1.2023, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Adenocarcinoma of the endometrium (also known as endometrial cancer, or more broadly as uterine cancer or carcinoma of the uterine corpus) is the most common malignancy of the female genital tract in the United States. It is estimated that 65,950 new uterine cancer cases will have occurred in 2022, with 12,550 deaths resulting from the disease. Endometrial carcinoma includes pure endometrioid cancer and carcinomas with high-risk endometrial histology (including uterine serous carcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, carcinosarcoma [also known as malignant mixed Müllerian tumor], and undifferentiated/dedifferentiated carcinoma). Stromal or mesenchymal sarcomas are uncommon subtypes accounting for approximately 3% of all uterine cancers. This selection from the NCCN Guidelines for Uterine Neoplasms focuses on the diagnosis, staging, and management of pure endometrioid carcinoma. The complete version of the NCCN Guidelines for Uterine Neoplasms is available online at NCCN.org.

ROMA Index Is an Effective Predictor for Advanced Endometrial Cancer before Surgery

There is a high rate of inconformity between clinical staging and surgical-pathologic staging in endometrial cancer. Many patients with advanced endometrial cancer are preoperatively understaged and thereby do not receive the optimal therapy. Here, we aimed to develop a predictive model or biomarker for preoperative diagnosis of advanced endometrial cancer via multivariate logistic regression analysis. In this study, 259 eligible patients were included, and 195 patients were assigned to the training dataset and 64 patients to validation dataset. Age, menopause status, sterilization situation, parity, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tumor size, and ovarian malignancy algorithm (ROMA) index were included as predictive variables, and the binary outcome was advanced endometrial cancer or not. When the P value was set as less than 0.01 in forward stepwise regression, only ROMA index was retained. The odds ratio of being positive ROMA index was 15.531 times that of negative value. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.790 in the training dataset and 0.776 in the validation dataset. The decision curve analysis curve showed that the prediction by ROMA index added more net benefits for almost all threshold probabilities. Therefore, ROMA index is an effective predictor for advanced endometrial cancer before surgery. Since ROMA index is a standard, measurable, and reliable laboratory test, it can be used as a reference tool for gynecologists to design the appropriate therapeutic schedule for patients with high-stage endometrial cancer before surgery.

Factors That Affect Survival Outcomes in Patients with Endometrial Clear Cell Carcinoma

Background: Clear cell carcinoma (CCC) is a rare aggressive histologic subtype of endometrial cancer with a high relapse rate. In the present study, we sought to evaluate the prognostic factors of disease relapse and overall survival. Methods: We conducted retrospective cohort studies that included endometrial CCC patients treated at our institution. Predictive variables of survival outcomes were evaluated considering factors that determine the survival of patients with endometrioid carcinoma. Results: Fifty-five patients with a median age of 68 years and a median follow-up period of 31 months were included in the present study. Recurrence-free and overall survival rates did not differ among patients with early-stage and advanced-stage disease (RFS HR 1.51 (95% CI 0.63, 3.61), OS HR 1.36 (0.56, 3.31)). Patients with upper abdominal metastases had significantly shorter progression-free and overall survival intervals (log-rank < 0.001). The Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon analysis indicated worse survival rates for patients with advanced disease (p = 0.040); however, the log-rank test that gave equal weight to all time points did not reveal significant differences (log-rank = 0.576). Conclusion: Clear cell carcinoma is an aggressive histologic subtype of endometrial cancer that seems to be moderately affected by known predictors of survival rates in endometrioid carcinoma patients, except for the disease stage. Further research is needed to evaluate whether the molecular profiling of these patients may help predict survival outcomes.

A Case of Malignant Pleural Effusion Secondary to Endometrial Cancer After One Year of Hysterectomy

Endometrial cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the female genital tract. It can rarely metastasize to the lung, presenting as a pulmonary nodule and pleural effusion. Here we present a case of a 76-year-old female with a history of endometrial cancer who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy and came one year later for evaluation of shortness of breath. She was found to have pleural effusion. Diagnostic and therapeutic thoracentesis was positive for malignant cells originating from endometrial cancer. The patient could not tolerate chemotherapy due to poor functional status, and a tunnel pleural catheter was placed for symptomatic relief. In conclusion, it is a rare finding of malignant pleural effusion to have an origin as endometrial cancer. Pleura is the rare distant site of involvement from endometrial cancer.

Novel approaches for treatment of endometrial carcinoma

Endometrial cancer (EC) is common malignancy in women and its incidence is slowly on the rise. Accurate surgical staging, with aggressive cytoreduction when indicated, remains the most critical step in the treatment. Careful pathological evaluation and/or molecular risk stratification guides for proper systemic adjuvant radiotherapy ± chemotherapy. Recurrent and metastatic EC has dismal prognosis and palliative therapies (chemotherapy, hormonal therapy or radiation) forms the backbone of treatment. There is an unmet need of newer therapies to improve survival in such cases. A number of tyrosine kinase inhibitors are currently under evaluation. Recent data on therapeutic targeting of HER2 positive serous EC is exciting. Data on check point inhibitors particularly based on biomarker select population has raised hope for potentially effective treatment for women with high risk endometrial cancer .

Uptake in sentinel lymph node biopsy for endometrial cancer with T3 classification

OBJECTIVE

The current clinical practice guidelines for endometrial cancer specify sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy to be performed in apparent uterine-confined disease. However, a recent population-based analysis found that the utilization of SLN biopsy is increasing in extra-uterine disease such as T2 classification. The objective of this study was to examine trends and outcomes related to SLN biopsy for endometrial cancer with T3 classification, another extra-uterine disease.

METHODS

A population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine 7004 women with T3 endometrial cancer who underwent primary surgery between 2010 and 2018, identified in the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. Trends and characteristics related to SLN biopsy were assessed by multinomial regression analysis, and inverse probability of treatment weighting propensity score was used to assess overall survival related to SLN biopsy.

RESULTS

Nodal evaluation type included lymphadenectomy (n = 5276, 75.3%), SLN biopsy (n = 287, 4.1%), and none (n = 1441, 20.6%). The utilization of SLN biopsy increased from 0.4% to 12.9% between 2010 and 2018 (P < 0.001) that this association remained independent in multivariable analysis (adjusted-odds ratio compared to 2010-2012, 2.63 [95% confidence interval 1.57-4.42] for 2013-2015 and 10.1 [95% confidence interval 6.30-16.2] for 2016-2018). When compared to the lymphadenectomy group, the SLN biopsy group was less likely to have T3b disease (adjusted-odds ratio 0.69, 95% confidence interval 0.51-0.94) but had similar postoperative chemotherapy and radiotherapy (both, P > 0.05). In a weighted model, the 3-year overall survival rate was 66.3% for the SLN biopsy group and 64.7% for the lymphadenectomy group (hazard ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.69-1.05). Similar association was observed in subcohorts for young, old, endometrioid, non-endometrioid, T3a, T3b, and N0 cases.

CONCLUSION

Utilization of SLN biopsy in T3 endometrial cancer is increasing in the United States.

Population-level uptake of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for stage IVB endometrial cancer

OBJECTIVE

To examine population-level trends, characteristics, and outcomes of patients with stage IVB endometrial cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) prior to surgery.

METHODS

The National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program was retrospectively queried by examining 5505 patients with stage IVB endometrial cancer from 2010 to 2018. Exposure allocation was per treatment: primary surgery followed by chemotherapy (n = 3052, 55.4%), NACT followed by surgery (n = 930, 16.9%), and chemotherapy alone (n = 1523, 27.7%). Main outcomes measured were (i) the trend of utilization of NACT and patient characteristics related to NACT assessed with multinomial regression analysis and (ii) overall survival (OS) assessed with multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model.

RESULTS

The number of patients receiving NACT prior to surgery increased from 11.6% to 21.7% whereas those undergoing primary surgery followed by chemotherapy decreased from 62.7% to 48.3% (P < 0.001). Increasing utilization of NACT remained independent in multivariable analysis (adjusted-odds ratio per one-year increments 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.15). Increasing utilization of NACT was observed in several sub-cohorts including patients aged <65 years, ≥65 years, White, non-White, endometrioid, non-endometrioid, and cases with non-distant organ metastasis (P < 0.05). In a multivariable analysis, NACT followed by surgery and primary surgery followed by chemotherapy had comparable OS (median 25 versus 26 months, adjusted-hazard ratio [HR] 1.03, 95%CI 0.93-1.15). When examined for metastatic extent, NACT followed by surgery was associated with decreased OS compared to primary surgery followed by chemotherapy in the non-distant organ metastasis group (adjusted-HR 1.20, 95%CI 1.05-1.36) whereas it was associated with improved OS in the distant organ metastasis group (adjusted-HR 0.79, 95%CI 0.66-0.95).

CONCLUSION

The treatment of stage IVB endometrial cancer is shifting from primary surgery to NACT in the United States.

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer in high income countries and its incidence is rising globally. Although an ageing population and fewer benign hysterectomies have contributed to this trend, the growing prevalence of obesity is the major underlying cause. Obesity poses challenges for diagnosis and treatment and more research is needed to offer primary prevention to high-risk women and to optimise endometrial cancer survivorship. Early presentation with postmenopausal bleeding ensures most endometrial cancers are cured by hysterectomy but those with advanced disease have a poor prognosis. Minimally invasive surgical staging and sentinel-lymph-node biopsy provides a low morbidity alternative to historical surgical management without compromising oncological outcomes. Adjuvant radiotherapy reduces loco-regional recurrence in intermediate-risk and high-risk cases. Advances in our understanding of the molecular biology of endometrial cancer have paved the way for targeted chemotherapeutic strategies, and clinical trials will establish their benefit in adjuvant, advanced, and recurrent disease settings in the coming years.

Risk Stratification of Endometrial Cancer Patients: FIGO Stage, Biomarkers and Molecular Classification

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynaecologic malignancy in developed countries. The main challenge in EC management is to correctly estimate the risk of metastases at diagnosis and the risk to develop recurrences in the future. Risk stratification determines the need for surgical staging and adjuvant treatment. Detection of occult, microscopic metastases upstages patients, provides important prognostic information and guides adjuvant treatment. The molecular classification subdivides EC into four prognostic subgroups: POLE ultramutated; mismatch repair deficient (MMRd); nonspecific molecular profile (NSMP); and TP53 mutated (p53abn). How surgical staging should be adjusted based on preoperative molecular profiling is currently unknown. Moreover, little is known whether and how other known prognostic biomarkers affect prognosis prediction independent of or in addition to these molecular subgroups. This review summarizes the factors incorporated in surgical staging (i.e., peritoneal washing, lymph node dissection, omentectomy and peritoneal biopsies), and its impact on prognosis and adjuvant treatment decisions in an era of molecular classification of EC. Moreover, the relation between FIGO stage and molecular classification is evaluated including the current gaps in knowledge and future perspectives.