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Saberian C, Milton DR, Simon J, Amaria RN, Diab A, McQuade J, Patel SP, Tawbi H, Yee C, Wong MK, McCutcheon IE, Davies MA, Ferguson SD, Glitza Oliva IC. Survival and treatment outcomes in patients with leptomeningeal disease from metastatic melanoma. Neurooncol Pract 2024; 11:452-463. [PMID: 39006528 PMCID: PMC11241361 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npae026] [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: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Melanoma leptomeningeal disease (LMD) has a poor prognosis. However, the management of patients with advanced melanoma has evolved with time, including those with LMD. We reviewed a large cohort of melanoma LMD patients to assess factors associated with survival. Methods Retrospective clinical data was collected on patients diagnosed with LMD at MD Anderson Cancer Center from 2015 to 2020. Overall survival (OS) was determined from LMD diagnosis to date of death or last follow-up. The Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to estimate OS and to assess univariate group differences, respectively. Multivariable associations of survival with variables of interest were determined using Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results A total of 172 patients were identified. The median age at LMD diagnosis was 53 (range 20-79) years, and all patients had radiographic evidence of LMD on magnetic resonance imaging of either brain or spine. In total 143 patients previously received systemic therapy (83%), with a median of 2 prior treatments (range 0-5). 81 patients (47%) had concurrent uncontrolled systemic disease and 80 patients (53%) had elevated serum LDH at the time of diagnosis. With a median follow-up of 4.0 months (range 0.1-65.3 months), median OS for all patients from LMD diagnosis was 4.9 months. Patients (n = 45) who received intrathecal therapy or systemic immunotherapy for LMD had a median OS of 8.0 months and 10.2 months, respectively. On multivariable analysis, decreased performance status, positive CSF cytology, elevated LDH, and whole brain radiation were associated with worse OS. Conclusions Despite many advances in therapeutic options, the outcomes of melanoma patients with LMD remains poor. However, a subset of patients appears to derive benefit from LMD-directed treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Saberian
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Denái R Milton
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Julie Simon
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rodabe N Amaria
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Adi Diab
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer McQuade
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sapna P Patel
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hussein Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Cassian Yee
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael K Wong
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ian E McCutcheon
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael A Davies
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sherise D Ferguson
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Isabella C Glitza Oliva
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Lochrin SE, Buonocore DJ, Young RJ, Kaley TJ, Postow MA, Wolchok JD, Shoushtari AN, Momtaz P, Betof Warner AS, Callahan MK. Durable complete response in a patient with leptomeningeal melanoma after treatment with dabrafenib, trametinib, and nivolumab. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2024. [PMID: 38960393 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13179] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a devastating complication of melanoma with a dismal prognosis. We present the case of a young man with stage IV BRAF V600E mutant melanoma with lung, lymph node, and brain metastases initially treated with ipilimumab and nivolumab, who subsequently developed LMD. Upon change to BRAF/MEK targeted therapy with nivolumab, a durable complete response was achieved and remains ongoing, off treatment, 7 years from diagnosis. Management of symptomatic LMD remains a critical unmet clinical challenge, with limited clinical trial data. This exceptional case is instructive, as the first published case of the use of the triplet, and the first durable response with therapy discontinuation, in melanoma LMD. The triple-drug regimen may be considered a viable option in fit patients. This case highlights the potential for long-term disease control and the critical and urgent need to develop clinical trials inclusive of patients with LMD to define the best treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Lochrin
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Darren J Buonocore
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Robert J Young
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Thomas J Kaley
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Michael A Postow
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Jedd D Wolchok
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Alexander N Shoushtari
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Parisa Momtaz
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Allison S Betof Warner
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Margaret K Callahan
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
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3
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Remsik J, Boire A. The path to leptomeningeal metastasis. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:448-460. [PMID: 38871881 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00700-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The leptomeninges, the cerebrospinal-fluid-filled tissues surrounding the central nervous system, play host to various pathologies including infection, neuroinflammation and malignancy. Spread of systemic cancer into this space, termed leptomeningeal metastasis, occurs in 5-10% of patients with solid tumours and portends a bleak clinical prognosis. Previous, predominantly descriptive, clinical studies have provided few insights. Recent development of preclinical leptomeningeal metastasis models, alongside genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic sequencing efforts, has provided groundwork for mechanistic understanding and identification of long-needed therapeutic targets. Although previously understood as an anatomically isolated compartment, the leptomeninges are increasingly appreciated as a major conduit of communication between the systemic circulation and the central nervous system. Despite the unique nature of the leptomeningeal microenvironment, the general principles of metastasis hold true: cells metastasizing to the leptomeninges must gain access to the new environment, survive within the space and evade the immune system. The study of leptomeningeal metastasis has the potential to uncover novel site-specific metastatic principles and illuminate the physiology of the leptomeningeal space. In this Review, we provide a biology-focused overview of how metastatic cells reach the leptomeninges, thrive in this nutritionally sparse environment and evade the detection of the omnipresent immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Remsik
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Laboratory for Immunology of Metastatic Ecosystems, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adrienne Boire
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Brain Tumour Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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4
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Nakagawa K, Takano K, Nishino K, Ohe S, Nakayama T, Arita H. Prognostic impact of clinical and radiological factors on leptomeningeal metastasis from solid cancers. J Neurooncol 2024; 167:397-406. [PMID: 38430420 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-024-04616-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The number of leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) patients has increased in recent years, as the cancer survival rates increased. An optimal prediction of prognosis is essential for selecting an appropriate treatment. The European Association of Neuro-Oncology-European Society for Medical Oncology (EANO-ESMO) guidelines for LM proposed a classification based on the cerebrospinal fluid cytological findings and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pattern. However, few studies have validated the utility of this classification. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic factors of LM, including the radiological and cytological types. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the data of 240 adult patients with suspected LM who had undergone lumbar puncture between April 2014 and September 2021. RESULTS The most common primary cancer types were non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (143 (60%)) and breast cancer (27 (11%)). Positive cytology results and the presence of leptomeningeal lesions on contrast-enhanced MRI correlated with decreased survival in all patients. Nodular lesions detected on contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance were a poor prognostic factor in cytology-negative patients, while contrast-enhanced patterns had no prognostic significance in cytology-positive patients. Systemic therapy using cytotoxic agents and molecular-targeted therapy after LM diagnosis correlated with prolonged survival, regardless of the cytology results. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment and systemic chemotherapy after LM improved the survival of EGFR-mutated and wild-type NSCLC patients with positive cytology results. CONCLUSIONS This study validated the efficacy of prognostication according to the EANO-ESMO guidelines for LM. Systemic therapy after LM diagnosis improves the survival of NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanji Nakagawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-Ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Koji Takano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-Ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Kazumi Nishino
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shuichi Ohe
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nakayama
- Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Arita
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-Ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan.
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5
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Dan X, Huang M, Sun Z, Chu X, Shi X, Chen Y. Case report: Concurrent intrathecal and intravenous pembrolizumab for metastatic melanoma with leptomeningeal disease. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1344829. [PMID: 38665955 PMCID: PMC11043509 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1344829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a serious cancer complication associated with poor prognosis. Approximately 5%-25% of patients with melanoma develop LMD. Currently, no standard treatment protocol exists and very few cases have been reported. Despite ongoing advances in new therapies, treatment options for LMD remain limited. Herein, we report a case of intrathecal pembrolizumab administration in a patient with melanoma and LMD. Intrathecal pembrolizumab administration was feasible and safe at the doses tested. Drawing from this case, along with our expertise and the existing evidence on systemic immunotherapy, we propose that an immunotherapy approach involving intrathecal administration for patients with LMD from melanoma warrants additional exploration in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Dan
- Affiliated Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengxi Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaochen Sun
- Affiliated Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Shi
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Yitian Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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6
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Pellerino A, Bertero L, Pronello E, Rudà R, Soffietti R. The early recognition and diagnosis of neoplastic meningitis. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:105-116. [PMID: 38145502 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2295999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The diagnosis and monitoring of leptomeningeal metastases (LM) from solid tumors are challenging, and the combination of neurological symptoms, MRI findings, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology does not always allow to achieve a definitive diagnosis. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the studies that have investigated CSF liquid biopsy to improve the initial diagnosis of LM in case the CSF cytology is negative or only suspicious for tumor cells, and monitoring of tumor response following targeted therapies or immunotherapy. In this regard, the early detection of LM recurrence and the development of resistant mutations are critical issues. Moreover, the early identification of subgroups of patients with a higher risk of LM progression, as well as the correlation of LM burden with survival, are discussed. EXPERT OPINION There is an urgent need of prospective studies to monitor longitudinally LM using CSF liquid biopsy and investigate the role of CTC, ctDNA or novel assays. The optimal setting for the longitudinal CSF and blood collection can be clinical trials focused on the molecular diagnosis of LM as well as the response and monitoring following targeted agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Pellerino
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University and City of Health and Science Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Bertero
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pronello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University and City of Health and Science Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Riccardo Soffietti
- Department of Oncology, Candiolo Institute for Cancer Research, FPO-IRCCS, Turin, Candiolo, Italy
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7
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Smalley I, Boire A, Brastianos P, Kluger HM, Hernando-Monge E, Forsyth PA, Ahmed KA, Smalley KSM, Ferguson S, Davies MA, Glitza Oliva IC. Leptomeningeal disease in melanoma: An update on the developments in pathophysiology and clinical care. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2024; 37:51-67. [PMID: 37622466 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) remains a major challenge in the clinical management of metastatic melanoma patients. Outcomes for patient remain poor, and patients with LMD continue to be excluded from almost all clinical trials. However, recent trials have demonstrated the feasibility of conducting prospective clinical trials in these patients. Further, new insights into the pathophysiology of LMD are identifying rational new therapeutic strategies. Here we present recent advances in the understanding of, and treatment options for, LMD from metastatic melanoma. We also annotate key areas of future focus to accelerate progress for this challenging but emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inna Smalley
- Department of Metabolism and Physiology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Adrienne Boire
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Priscilla Brastianos
- Department of Medicine, MGH Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Harriet M Kluger
- Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Eva Hernando-Monge
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Peter A Forsyth
- Department of Neuro-Oncology and Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Kamran A Ahmed
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Immunology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Keiran S M Smalley
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Sherise Ferguson
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael A Davies
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Isabella C Glitza Oliva
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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8
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Le Rhun E, Weller M, van den Bent M, Brandsma D, Furtner J, Rudà R, Schadendorf D, Seoane J, Tonn JC, Wesseling P, Wick W, Minniti G, Peters S, Curigliano G, Preusser M. Leptomeningeal metastasis from solid tumours: EANO-ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. ESMO Open 2023; 8:101624. [PMID: 37863528 PMCID: PMC10619142 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.101624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
•This Clinical Practice Guideline provides recommendations for managing leptomeningeal metastases from solid tumours. •The guideline covers clinical, imaging and cytological diagnosis, staging and risk assessment, treatment and follow-up. •A treatment and management algorithm is provided. •The author panel encompasses a multidisciplinary group of experts from different institutions and countries in Europe. •Recommendations are based on available scientific data and the authors’ collective expert opinion.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Le Rhun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Weller
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M van den Bent
- Department of The Brain Tumour Center at the Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam
| | - D Brandsma
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Furtner
- Research Center for Medical Image Analysis and Artificial Intelligence (MIAAI), Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Krems, Austria
| | - R Rudà
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - D Schadendorf
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen; University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - J Seoane
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J-C Tonn
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University School of Medicine, Munich; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - P Wesseling
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers/VUmc and Brain Tumour Center, Amsterdam; Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - W Wick
- Neurology Clinic, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg; Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuro-Oncology, German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - G Minniti
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Sapienza University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome; IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli IS, Italy
| | - S Peters
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - G Curigliano
- European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - M Preusser
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine 1, Medical University, Vienna, Austria
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9
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Ahmad A, Khan P, Rehman AU, Batra SK, Nasser MW. Immunotherapy: an emerging modality to checkmate brain metastasis. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:111. [PMID: 37454123 PMCID: PMC10349473 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of brain metastasis (BrM) has historically been a dooming diagnosis that is nothing less than a death sentence, with few treatment options for palliation or prolonging life. Among the few treatment options available, brain radiotherapy (RT) and surgical resection have been the backbone of therapy. Within the past couple of years, immunotherapy (IT), alone and in combination with traditional treatments, has emerged as a reckoning force to combat the spread of BrM and shrink tumor burden. This review compiles recent reports describing the potential role of IT in the treatment of BrM in various cancers. It also examines the impact of the tumor microenvironment of BrM on regulating the spread of cancer and the role IT can play in mitigating that spread. Lastly, this review also focuses on the future of IT and new clinical trials pushing the boundaries of IT in BrM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aatiya Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Parvez Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Asad Ur Rehman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Surinder Kumar Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
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10
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Steininger J, Gellrich FF, Engellandt K, Meinhardt M, Westphal D, Beissert S, Meier F, Glitza Oliva IC. Leptomeningeal Metastases in Melanoma Patients: An Update on and Future Perspectives for Diagnosis and Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11443. [PMID: 37511202 PMCID: PMC10380419 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a devastating complication of cancer with a particularly poor prognosis. Among solid tumours, malignant melanoma (MM) has one of the highest rates of metastasis to the leptomeninges, with approximately 10-15% of patients with advanced disease developing LMD. Tumour cells that metastasise to the brain have unique properties that allow them to cross the blood-brain barrier, evade the immune system, and survive in the brain microenvironment. Metastatic colonisation is achieved through dynamic communication between metastatic cells and the tumour microenvironment, resulting in a tumour-permissive milieu. Despite advances in treatment options, the incidence of LMD appears to be increasing and current treatment modalities have a limited impact on survival. This review provides an overview of the biology of LMD, diagnosis and current treatment approaches for MM patients with LMD, and an overview of ongoing clinical trials. Despite the still limited efficacy of current therapies, there is hope that emerging treatments will improve the outcomes for patients with LMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Steininger
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Frank Friedrich Gellrich
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kay Engellandt
- Department of Neuroradiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Matthias Meinhardt
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Dana Westphal
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan Beissert
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Friedegund Meier
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Skin Cancer Center at the University Cancer Center, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT/UCC), 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Isabella C Glitza Oliva
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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11
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Nguyen A, Nguyen A, Dada OT, Desai PD, Ricci JC, Godbole NB, Pierre K, Lucke-Wold B. Leptomeningeal Metastasis: A Review of the Pathophysiology, Diagnostic Methodology, and Therapeutic Landscape. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:5906-5931. [PMID: 37366925 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30060442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review aimed to establish an understanding of the pathophysiology of leptomeningeal disease as it relates to late-stage development among different cancer types. For our purposes, the focused metastatic malignancies include breast cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, primary central nervous system tumors, and hematologic cancers (lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma). Of note, our discussion was limited to cancer-specific leptomeningeal metastases secondary to the aforementioned primary cancers. LMD mechanisms secondary to non-cancerous pathologies, such as infection or inflammation of the leptomeningeal layer, were excluded from our scope of review. Furthermore, we intended to characterize general leptomeningeal disease, including the specific anatomical infiltration process/area, CSF dissemination, manifesting clinical symptoms in patients afflicted with the disease, detection mechanisms, imaging modalities, and treatment therapies (both preclinical and clinical). Of these parameters, leptomeningeal disease across different primary cancers shares several features. Pathophysiology regarding the development of CNS involvement within the mentioned cancer subtypes is similar in nature and progression of disease. Consequently, detection of leptomeningeal disease, regardless of cancer type, employs several of the same techniques. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in combination with varied imaging (CT, MRI, and PET-CT) has been noted in the current literature as the gold standard in the diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastasis. Treatment options for the disease are both varied and currently in development, given the rarity of these cases. Our review details the differences in leptomeningeal disease as they pertain through the lens of several different cancer subtypes in an effort to highlight the current state of targeted therapy, the potential shortcomings in treatment, and the direction of preclinical and clinical treatments in the future. As there is a lack of comprehensive reviews that seek to characterize leptomeningeal metastasis from various solid and hematologic cancers altogether, the authors intended to highlight not only the overlapping mechanisms but also the distinct patterning of disease detection and progression as a means to uniquely treat each metastasis type. The scarcity of LMD cases poses a barrier to more robust evaluations of this pathology. However, as treatments for primary cancers have improved over time, so has the incidence of LMD. The increase in diagnosed cases only represents a small fraction of LMD-afflicted patients. More often than not, LMD is determined upon autopsy. The motivation behind this review stems from the increased capacity to study LMD in spite of scarcity or poor patient prognosis. In vitro analysis of leptomeningeal cancer cells has allowed researchers to approach this disease at the level of cancer subtypes and markers. We ultimately hope to facilitate the clinical translation of LMD research through our discourse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Nguyen
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Alexander Nguyen
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | | | - Persis D Desai
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Jacob C Ricci
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Nikhil B Godbole
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Kevin Pierre
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Khaled ML, Tarhini AA, Forsyth PA, Smalley I, Piña Y. Leptomeningeal Disease (LMD) in Patients with Melanoma Metastases. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061884. [PMID: 36980770 PMCID: PMC10047692 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a devastating complication caused by seeding malignant cells to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the leptomeningeal membrane. LMD is diagnosed in 5-15% of patients with systemic malignancy. Management of LMD is challenging due to the biological and metabolic tumor microenvironment of LMD being largely unknown. Patients with LMD can present with a wide variety of signs and/or symptoms that could be multifocal and include headache, nausea, vomiting, diplopia, and weakness, among others. The median survival time for patients with LMD is measured in weeks and up to 3-6 months with aggressive management, and death usually occurs due to progressive neurologic dysfunction. In melanoma, LMD is associated with a suppressive immune microenvironment characterized by a high number of apoptotic and exhausted CD4+ T-cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and a low number of CD8+ T-cells. Proteomics analysis revealed enrichment of complement cascade, which may disrupt the blood-CSF barrier. Clinical management of melanoma LMD consists primarily of radiation therapy, BRAF/MEK inhibitors as targeted therapy, and immunotherapy with anti-PD-1, anti-CTLA-4, and anti-LAG-3 immune checkpoint inhibitors. This review summarizes the biology and anatomic features of melanoma LMD, as well as the current therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Lotfy Khaled
- Metabolism and Physiology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 12613, Egypt
| | - Ahmad A Tarhini
- Departments of Cutaneous Oncology and Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Peter A Forsyth
- Neuro-Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Inna Smalley
- Metabolism and Physiology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Yolanda Piña
- Neuro-Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Neoplastic Meningitis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010119. [PMID: 36612116 PMCID: PMC9817816 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) metastasis from systemic cancers can involve the brain parenchyma, leptomeninges, or the dura. Neoplastic meningitis (NM), also known by different terms, including leptomeningeal carcinomatosis and carcinomatous meningitis, occurs due to solid tumors and hematologic malignancies and is associated with a poor prognosis. The current management paradigm entails a multimodal approach focused on palliation with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, which may be administered systemically or directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This review focuses on novel therapeutic approaches, including targeted and immunotherapeutic agents under investigation, that have shown promise in NM arising from solid tumors.
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Akatsuka T, Toyama T, Morimura S, Komuta M, Mori I, Tanaka T, Tabei Y, Kawashima M, Matsuno A, Sugaya M. A case of primary meningeal melanocytosis treated with combination therapy with nivolumab and ipilimumab. J Dermatol 2022; 50:e125-e126. [PMID: 36440954 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.16658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Taro Akatsuka
- Department of Dermatology International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Tetsuo Toyama
- Department of Dermatology International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Sohshi Morimura
- Department of Dermatology International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Mina Komuta
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Ichiro Mori
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Tatsuya Tanaka
- Department of Neurosurgery International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Yusuke Tabei
- Department of Neurosurgery International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Masatou Kawashima
- Department of Neurosurgery International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Akira Matsuno
- Department of Neurosurgery International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
| | - Makoto Sugaya
- Department of Dermatology International University of Health and Welfare Narita Japan
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Pedersen S, Møller S, Donia M, Persson GF, Svane IM, Ellebaek E. Real-world data on melanoma brain metastases and survival outcome. Melanoma Res 2022; 32:173-182. [PMID: 35256571 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Novel medical therapies have revolutionized outcome for patients with melanoma. However, patients with melanoma brain metastases (MBM) still have poor survival. Data are limited as these patients are generally excluded from clinical trials, wherefore real-world data on clinical outcome may support evidence-based treatment choices for patients with MBM. Patients diagnosed with MBM between 2008 and 2020 were included retrospectively. Patient characteristics, treatment, and outcome data were recorded from The Danish Metastatic Melanoma Database, pathology registries, electronic patient files, and radiation plans. Anti-programmed cell death protein 1 antibodies and the combination of BRAF/MEK-inhibitors were introduced in Denmark in 2015, and the cohort was split accordingly for comparison. A total of 527 patients were identified; 148 underwent surgical excision of MBM, 167 had stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), 270 received whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT), and 343 received systemic therapies. Median overall survival (mOS) for patients diagnosed with MBM before and after 2015 was 4.4 and 7.6 months, respectively. Patients receiving surgical excision as first choice of treatment had the best mOS of 10.9 months, whereas patients receiving WBRT had the worst outcome (mOS, 3.4 months). Postoperative SRS did not improve survival or local control after surgical excision of brain metastases. Of the 40 patients alive >3 years after diagnosis of MBM, 80% received immunotherapy at some point after diagnosis. Patients with meningeal carcinosis did not benefit from treatment with CPI. Outcome for patients with MBM has significantly improved after 2015, but long-term survivors are rare. Most patients alive >3 years after diagnosis of MBM received immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sidsel Pedersen
- Department of Oncology, National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
| | - Søren Møller
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen
| | - Marco Donia
- Department of Oncology, National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gitte Fredberg Persson
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Inge Marie Svane
- Department of Oncology, National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Ellebaek
- Department of Oncology, National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev
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16
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Melanoma Brain Metastases: An Update on the Use of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Molecularly Targeted Agents. Am J Clin Dermatol 2022; 23:523-545. [PMID: 35534670 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-022-00678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastases from melanoma are no longer uniformly associated with dismal outcomes. Impressive tumor tissue-based (craniotomy) translational research has consistently shown that distinct patient subgroups may have a favorable prognosis. This review provides a historical overview of the standard-of-care treatments until the early 2010s. It subsequently summarizes more recent advances in understanding the biology of melanoma brain metastases (MBMs) and treating patients with MBMs, mainly focusing upon prospective clinical trials of BRAF/MEK and PD-1/CTLA-4 inhibitors in patients with previously untreated MBMs. These additional systemic treatments have provided effective complementary treatment approaches and/or alternatives to radiation and craniotomy. The current role of radiation therapy, especially in conjunction with systemic therapies, is also discussed through the lens of various retrospective studies. The combined efficacy of systemic treatments with radiation has improved overall survival over the last 10 years and has sparked considerable research interest regarding optimal dosing and sequencing of radiation treatments with systemic treatments. Finally, the review describes ongoing clinical trials in patients with MBMs.
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Ferguson SD, Fomchenko EI, Guerrieri RA, Glitza Oliva IC. Challenges and Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment of Leptomeningeal Disease (LMD). Front Oncol 2022; 11:800053. [PMID: 35096602 PMCID: PMC8789647 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.800053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a devastating category of CNS metastasis with a very poor prognosis and limited treatment options. With maximal aggressive therapy, survival times remain short and, without treatment, prognosis is measured in weeks. Both LMD diagnosis and treatment are challenging topics within neuro-oncology. In this review, we discuss the advances in LMD diagnosis with a focus on the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and discuss the role of targeted and immunotherapy in LMD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherise D Ferguson
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Elena I Fomchenko
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Renato A Guerrieri
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Isabella C Glitza Oliva
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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18
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Leptomeningeal Disease. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2021; 36:189-215. [PMID: 34756800 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2021.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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