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Meertens A, Van Coile L, Van Iseghem T, Brochez L, Verhaeghe N, Hoorens I. Cost-of-Illness of Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2024; 42:751-765. [PMID: 38755518 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-024-01389-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin cancer's rising incidence demands understanding of its economic impact. The current understanding is fragmented because of the various methodological approaches applied in skin cancer cost-of-illness studies. OBJECTIVE This study systematically reviews melanoma and keratinocyte carcinoma cost-of-illness studies to provide an overview of the applied methodological approaches and to identify the main cost drivers. METHODS This systematic review was conducted adhering to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from December 2022 until December 2023 using a search strategy with entry terms related to the concepts of skin cancer and cost of illness. The records were screened on the basis of the title and abstract and subsequently on full text against predetermined eligibility criteria. Articles published before 2012 were excluded. A nine-item checklist adapted for cost-of-illness studies was used to assess the methodological quality of the articles. RESULTS This review included a total of 45 studies, together evaluating more than half a million patients. The majority of the studies (n = 36) focused on melanoma skin cancer, a few (n = 3) focused on keratinocyte carcinomas, and 6 studies examined both. Direct costs were estimated in all studies, while indirect costs were only estimated in nine studies. Considerable heterogeneity was observed across studies, mainly owing to disparities in study population, methodological approaches, included cost categories, and differences in healthcare systems. In melanoma skin cancer, both direct and indirect costs increased with progressing tumor stage. In advanced stage melanoma, systemic therapy emerged as the main cost driver. In contrast, for keratinocyte carcinoma no obvious cost drivers were identified. CONCLUSIONS A homogeneous skin cancer cost-of-illness study design would be beneficial to enhance between-studies comparability, identification of cost drivers, and support evidence-based decision-making for skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annick Meertens
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Ghent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Interuniversity Centre for Health Economics Research (I-CHER), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laura Van Coile
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Ghent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tijs Van Iseghem
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Interuniversity Centre for Health Economics Research (I-CHER), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lieve Brochez
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Ghent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nick Verhaeghe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Interuniversity Centre for Health Economics Research (I-CHER), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health, Interuniversity Centre for Health Economics Research (I-CHER), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Hoorens
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Ghent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
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Greene AC, Ziegler O, Quattrone M, Stack MJ, Becker B, Pameijer CR, Shen C. Association between Medicaid Expansion and Cutaneous Melanoma Diagnosis and Outcomes: Does Where You Live Make a Difference? Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:4584-4593. [PMID: 38553653 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-15214-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early detection and standardized treatment are crucial for enhancing outcomes for patients with cutaneous melanoma, the commonly diagnosed skin cancer. However, access to quality health care services remains a critical barrier for many patients, particularly the uninsured. Whereas Medicaid expansion (ME) has had a positive impact on some cancers, its specific influence on cutaneous melanoma remains understudied. METHODS The National Cancer Database identified 87,512 patients 40-64 years of age with a diagnosis of non-metastatic cutaneous melanoma between 2004 and 2017. In this study, patient demographics, disease characteristics, and treatment variables were analyzed, and ME status was determined based on state policies. Standard univariate statistics were used to compare patients with a diagnosis of non-metastatic cutaneous melanoma between ME and non-ME states. The Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests were used to evaluate overall survival (OS) between ME and non-ME states. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to examine associations with OS. RESULTS Overall, 28.6 % (n = 25,031) of the overall cohort was in ME states. The patients in ME states were more likely to be insured, live in neighborhoods with higher median income quartiles, receive treatment at academic/research cancer centers, have lower stages of disease, and receive surgery than the patients in non-ME states. Kaplan-Meier analysis found enhanced 5-year OS for the patients in ME states across all stages. Cox regression showed improved survival in ME states for stage II (hazard ratio [HR], 0.84) and stage III (HR, 0.75) melanoma. CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the positive association between ME and improved diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for patients with non-metastatic cutaneous melanoma. These findings advocate for continued efforts to enhance health care accessibility for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia C Greene
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Olivia Ziegler
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - McKell Quattrone
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Michael J Stack
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin Becker
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Colette R Pameijer
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Chan Shen
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA.
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA.
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van Duin IAJ, Schuiveling M, Ter Maat LS, van Amsterdam WAC, van den Berkmortel F, Boers-Sonderen M, de Groot JWB, Hospers GAP, Kapiteijn E, Labots M, Piersma D, Schrader AMR, Vreugdenhil G, Westgeest H, Veta M, Blokx WAM, van Diest PJ, Suijkerbuijk KPM. Baseline tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte patterns and response to immune checkpoint inhibition in metastatic cutaneous melanoma. Eur J Cancer 2024; 208:114190. [PMID: 38991284 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2024.114190] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in melanoma has been linked to survival. Their predictive capability for immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) response remains uncertain. Therefore, we investigated the association between treatment response and TILs in the largest cohort to date and analyzed if this association was independent of known clinical predictors. METHODS In this multicenter cohort study, patients who received first-line anti-PD1 ± anti-CTLA4 for advanced melanoma were identified. TILs were scored on hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) slides of primary melanoma and pre-treatment metastases using the validated TILs-WG, Clark and MIA score. The primary outcome was objective response rate (ORR), with progression free survival and overall survival being secondary outcomes. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard were performed, adjusting for known clinical predictors. RESULTS Metastatic melanoma specimens were available for 650 patients and primary specimens for 565 patients. No association was found in primary melanoma specimens. In metastatic specimens, a 10-point increase in the TILs-WG score was associated with a higher probability of response (aOR 1.17, 95 % CI 1.07-1.28), increased PFS (HR 0.93, 95 % CI 0.87-0.996), and OS (HR 0.94, 95 % CI 0.89-0.99). When categorized, patients in the highest tertile TILs-WG score (15-100 %) compared to the lowest tertile (0 %) had a longer median PFS (13.1 vs. 7.3 months, p = 0.04) and OS (49.4 vs. 19.5 months, p = 0.003). Similar results were noted using the MIA and Clark scores. CONCLUSION In advanced melanoma patients, TIL patterns on H&E slides of pre-treatment metastases, regardless of measurement method, are independently associated with ICI response. TILs are easily scored on readily available H&Es, facilitating the use of this biomarker in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella A J van Duin
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mark Schuiveling
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Laurens S Ter Maat
- Image Sciences Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter A C van Amsterdam
- Department of Data Science and Biostatistics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Franchette van den Berkmortel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zuyderland Medical Center Sittard, Dr. H. van der Hoffplein 1, Sittard-Geleen 6162 BG, the Netherlands
| | - Marye Boers-Sonderen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, Nijmegen 6525 GA, the Netherlands
| | | | - Geke A P Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen 9713 GZ, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden 2333ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Mariette Labots
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, Amsterdam 1081 Hz, the Netherlands
| | - Djura Piersma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Koningsplein 1, Enschede 7512 KZ, the Netherlands
| | - Anne M R Schrader
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Gerard Vreugdenhil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Center, De Run 4600, Eindhoven 5504 DB, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Westgeest
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amphia Hospital, Molengracht 21, Breda 4818 CK, the Netherlands
| | - Mitko Veta
- Medical Image Analysis, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Willeke A M Blokx
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Paul J van Diest
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Karijn P M Suijkerbuijk
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Shimizu MR, van de Langerijt ON, Torres D, de Groot T, Groot OQ. Incidence, Risk Factors, and Survival of Bone Metastases and Skeletal-Related Events in Melanoma Patients: A Systematic Review and Quality Assessment of 29 Studies. J Bone Oncol 2024; 46:100603. [PMID: 38765703 PMCID: PMC11098944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2024.100603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Skeletal metastases make up 17% of all metastases from advanced-stage melanoma. Bone metastases are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and decreased quality of life due to their association with skeletal-related events (SREs), including pathological fracture, spinal cord compression, hypercalcemia, radiotherapy, and surgery. The study aimed to determine the incidence of bone metastases and SREs in melanoma, identify possible risk factors for the development of bone metastases and SREs, and investigate survival rates in this patient population. Methods A computer-based literature search was conducted using Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to July 2023. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was utilized for quality assessment. Study characteristics, patient information, risk factors for developing bone metastases and SREs, and characteristics for survival were recorded. Results We included 29 studies. The average bone metastasis-free interval ranged from four to 72 months. Incidence of bone metastases varied from 2 % to 49 % across 14 studies. 69 % (20/29) of studies described the location of bone metastases, with 24 % (7/29) focusing solely on spinal metastases. In one study, 129 SREs were recorded in 71 % (59/83) of the patient cohort, with various manifestations. The use of bone-directed agents was independently associated with lower risk of SREs. Survival after detection of bone metastasis ranged from three to 13 months. Factors associated with survival included clinical, tumor-related, and treatment features. Conclusion This review highlights the notable prevalence and risk factors of developing bone metastases and subsequent SREs in patients with melanoma. The surge in bone metastases poses a challenge in complication management, given the high prevalence of SREs. While this study offers a comprehensive overview of the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with bone metastases and SREs in melanoma patients that may guide patient and physician decision-making, a notable gap lies in the limited availability of high-quality data and the heterogeneous design of the existing literature. Future research should address predictive factors for bone metastases and SREs in melanoma to facilitate patient and physician decision-making and ultimately improve outcomes in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniel Torres
- Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Tom de Groot
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Olivier Q. Groot
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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van Duin IAJ, Verheijden RJ, van Diest PJ, Blokx WAM, El-Sharouni MA, Verhoeff JJC, Leiner T, van den Eertwegh AJM, de Groot JWB, van Not OJ, Aarts MJB, van den Berkmortel FWPJ, Blank CU, Haanen JBAG, Hospers GAP, Piersma D, van Rijn RS, van der Veldt AAM, Vreugdenhil G, Wouters MWJM, Stevense-den Boer MAM, Boers-Sonderen MJ, Kapiteijn E, Suijkerbuijk KPM, Elias SG. A prediction model for response to immune checkpoint inhibition in advanced melanoma. Int J Cancer 2024; 154:1760-1771. [PMID: 38296842 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Predicting who will benefit from treatment with immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) in patients with advanced melanoma is challenging. We developed a multivariable prediction model for response to ICI, using routinely available clinical data including primary melanoma characteristics. We used a population-based cohort of 3525 patients with advanced cutaneous melanoma treated with anti-PD-1-based therapy. Our prediction model for predicting response within 6 months after ICI initiation was internally validated with bootstrap resampling. Performance evaluation included calibration, discrimination and internal-external cross-validation. Included patients received anti-PD-1 monotherapy (n = 2366) or ipilimumab plus nivolumab (n = 1159) in any treatment line. The model included serum lactate dehydrogenase, World Health Organization performance score, type and line of ICI, disease stage and time to first distant recurrence-all at start of ICI-, and location and type of primary melanoma, the presence of satellites and/or in-transit metastases at primary diagnosis and sex. The over-optimism adjusted area under the receiver operating characteristic was 0.66 (95% CI: 0.64-0.66). The range of predicted response probabilities was 7%-81%. Based on these probabilities, patients were categorized into quartiles. Compared to the lowest response quartile, patients in the highest quartile had a significantly longer median progression-free survival (20.0 vs 2.8 months; P < .001) and median overall survival (62.0 vs 8.0 months; P < .001). Our prediction model, based on routinely available clinical variables and primary melanoma characteristics, predicts response to ICI in patients with advanced melanoma and discriminates well between treated patients with a very good and very poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella A J van Duin
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rik J Verheijden
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J van Diest
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Willeke A M Blokx
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mary-Ann El-Sharouni
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joost J C Verhoeff
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Leiner
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alfonsus J M van den Eertwegh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Olivier J van Not
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maureen J B Aarts
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW-School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Christian U Blank
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John B A G Haanen
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geke A P Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Djura Piersma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Rozemarijn S van Rijn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid A M van der Veldt
- Department of Medical Oncology and Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Vreugdenhil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Centre, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Michel W J M Wouters
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marye J Boers-Sonderen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karijn P M Suijkerbuijk
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd G Elias
- Department of Epidemiology, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Verkerk K, Voest EE. Generating and using real-world data: A worthwhile uphill battle. Cell 2024; 187:1636-1650. [PMID: 38552611 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.012] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The precision oncology paradigm challenges the feasibility and data generalizability of traditional clinical trials. Consequently, an unmet need exists for practical approaches to test many subgroups, evaluate real-world drug value, and gather comprehensive, accessible datasets to validate novel biomarkers. Real-world data (RWD) are increasingly recognized to have the potential to fill this gap in research methodology. Established applications of RWD include informing disease epidemiology, pharmacovigilance, and healthcare quality assessment. Currently, concerns regarding RWD quality and comprehensiveness, privacy, and biases hamper their broader application. Nonetheless, RWD may play a pivotal role in supplementing clinical trials, enabling conditional reimbursement and accelerated drug access, and innovating trial conduct. Moreover, purpose-built RWD repositories may support the extension or refinement of drug indications and facilitate the discovery and validation of new biomarkers. This perspective explores the potential of leveraging RWD to advance oncology, highlights its benefits and challenges, and suggests a path forward in this evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Verkerk
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - E E Voest
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands.
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Hipólito A, Xavier R, Brito C, Tomás A, Lemos I, Cabaço LC, Silva F, Oliva A, Barral DC, Vicente JB, Gonçalves LG, Pojo M, Serpa J. BRD9 status is a major contributor for cysteine metabolic remodeling through MST and EAAT3 modulation in malignant melanoma. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:166983. [PMID: 38070581 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166983] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is the most aggressive skin cancer, showing globally increasing incidence. Hereditary CM accounts for a significant percentage (5-15 %) of all CM cases. However, most familial cases remain without a known genetic cause. Even though, BRD9 has been associated to CM as a susceptibility gene. The molecular events following BRD9 mutagenesis are still not completely understood. In this study, we disclosed BRD9 as a key regulator in cysteine metabolism and associated altered BRD9 to increased cell proliferation, migration and invasiveness, as well as to altered melanin levels, inducing higher susceptibility to melanomagenesis. It is evident that BRD9 WT and mutated BRD9 (c.183G>C) have a different impact on cysteine metabolism, respectively by inhibiting and activating MPST expression in the metastatic A375 cell line. The effect of the mutated BRD9 variant was more evident in A375 cells than in the less invasive WM115 line. Our data point out novel molecular and metabolic mechanisms dependent on BRD9 status that potentially account for the increased risk of developing CM and enhancing CM aggressiveness. Moreover, our findings emphasize the role of cysteine metabolism remodeling in melanoma progression and open new queues to follow to explore the role of BRD9 as a melanoma susceptibility or cancer-related gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Hipólito
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Renato Xavier
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Cheila Brito
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Tomás
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Isabel Lemos
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Tecnológica (ITQB) António Xavier da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Luís C Cabaço
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Silva
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Abel Oliva
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Tecnológica (ITQB) António Xavier da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Duarte C Barral
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João B Vicente
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Tecnológica (ITQB) António Xavier da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Luís G Gonçalves
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Tecnológica (ITQB) António Xavier da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Marta Pojo
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jacinta Serpa
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG), Rua Prof Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal.
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Teppert K, Winter N, Herbel V, Brandes C, Lennartz S, Engert F, Kaiser A, Schaser T, Lock D. Combining CSPG4-CAR and CD20-CCR for treatment of metastatic melanoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1178060. [PMID: 37901209 PMCID: PMC10603253 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1178060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for patients with metastatic melanoma is poor and treatment options are limited. Genetically-engineered T cell therapy targeting chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4), however, represents a promising treatment option, especially as both primary melanoma cells as well as metastases uniformly express CSPG4. Aiming to prevent off-tumor toxicity while maintaining a high cytolytic potential, we combined a chimeric co-stimulatory receptor (CCR) and a CSPG4-directed second-generation chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) with moderate potency. CCRs are artificial receptors similar to CARs, but lacking the CD3ζ activation element. Thus, T cells expressing solely a CCR, do not induce any cytolytic activity upon target cell binding, but are capable of boosting the CAR T cell response when both CAR and CCR engage their target antigens simultaneously. Here we demonstrate that co-expression of a CCR can significantly enhance the anti-tumor response of CSPG4-CAR T cells in vitro as well as in vivo. Importantly, this boosting effect was not dependent on co-expression of both CCR- and CAR-target on the very same tumor cell, but was also achieved upon trans activation. Finally, our data support the idea of using a CCR as a powerful tool to enhance the cytolytic potential of CAR T cells, which might open a novel therapeutic window for the treatment of metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dominik Lock
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
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9
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Fu K, Montesino B, Seetharamaiah R. Ileocecal Intussusception and Obstruction Secondary to Metastatic Melanoma: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e46036. [PMID: 37900408 PMCID: PMC10603218 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Intussusception is an uncommon cause of bowel obstruction in adults. Most cases are associated with a pathologic lead point, commonly attributable to benign or malignant tumors. Malignant skin melanoma can metastasize to the gastrointestinal tract and lead to significant morbidity and mortality if left undiagnosed or untreated. In this article, we present the case of a 43-year-old Hispanic female with a history of stage III melanoma on her neck removed four years ago who presented with three weeks of lower abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Abdominal and pelvic imaging showed a high-grade small bowel obstruction with a transition point at the mid-ileum. Diagnostic laparoscopy confirmed an ileocecal intussusception secondary to a 5 cm mass at the lead point. The patient underwent successful resection of the ileum 5 cm from the intussusception and the ascending colon due to the high risk of malignancy. Pathology of the mass was found to be malignant melanoma, but the resected lymph nodes and omentum did not contain any malignancy. The patient tolerated the procedure well and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. This case demonstrates metastatic melanoma as a rare cause of intussusceptions in adults. It emphasizes the importance of considering intussusception when evaluating adult patients with classic lower abdominal pain. Prompt surgical intervention is recommended in suspected cases to address the significant likelihood of malignancy, especially in patients with an oncological history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Fu
- General Surgery, Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Brittany Montesino
- General Surgery, Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Rupa Seetharamaiah
- Surgery, Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, USA
- Surgery, Baptist Hospital of Miami, Miami, USA
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10
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van Not OJ, Wind TT, Ismail RK, Bhattacharya A, Jalving M, Blank CU, Aarts MJB, van den Berkmortel FWPJ, Boers-Sonderen MJ, van den Eertwegh AJM, de Groot JWB, Haanen JB, Kapiteijn E, Bloem M, Piersma D, van Rijn RS, Stevense-den Boer M, van der Veldt AAM, Vreugdenhil G, Wouters MWJM, Blokx WAM, Suijkerbuijk KPM, Fehrmann RSN, Hospers GAP. A Survival Tree of Advanced Melanoma Patients with Brain Metastases Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112922. [PMID: 37296885 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in patients with advanced melanoma that develop brain metastases (BM) remains unpredictable. In this study, we aimed to identify prognostic factors in patients with melanoma BM who are treated with ICIs. Data from advanced melanoma patients with BM treated with ICIs in any line between 2013 and 2020 were obtained from the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry. Patients were included from the time of the treatment of BM with ICIs. Survival tree analysis was performed with clinicopathological parameters as potential classifiers and overall survival (OS) as the response variable. In total, 1278 patients were included. Most patients were treated with ipilimumab-nivolumab combination therapy (45%). The survival tree analysis resulted in 31 subgroups. The median OS ranged from 2.7 months to 35.7 months. The strongest clinical parameter associated with survival in advanced melanoma patients with BM was the serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. Patients with elevated LDH levels and symptomatic BM had the worst prognosis. The clinicopathological classifiers identified in this study can contribute to optimizing clinical studies and can aid doctors in giving an indication of the patients' survival based on their baseline and disease characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier J van Not
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs T Wind
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rawa K Ismail
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Arkajyoti Bhattacharya
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde Jalving
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian U Blank
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maureen J B Aarts
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW-School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marye J Boers-Sonderen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alfonsus J M van den Eertwegh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Willem B de Groot
- Department of Medical Oncology, Isala Oncology Center, Dokter van Heesweg 2, 8025 AB Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - John B Haanen
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Manja Bloem
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Djura Piersma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Koningsplein 1, 7512 KZ Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Rozemarijn S van Rijn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Henri Dunantweg 2, 8934 AD Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Marion Stevense-den Boer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amphia Hospital, Molengracht 21, 4818 CK Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid A M van der Veldt
- Department of Medical Oncology and Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, 's-Gravendijkwal 230, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Vreugdenhil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, 5504 DB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Michel W J M Wouters
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willeke A M Blokx
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Karijn P M Suijkerbuijk
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rudolf S N Fehrmann
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Geke A P Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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11
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Ellingsen EB, Bjørheim J, Gaudernack G. Therapeutic cancer vaccination against telomerase: clinical developments in melanoma. Curr Opin Oncol 2023; 35:100-106. [PMID: 36700456 PMCID: PMC9894137 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) have revolutionized treatment outcomes for patients with malignant melanoma. Long-term follow-up shows that a substantial subset of patients who exhibit clinical responses achieve extended overall survival. Nevertheless, most patients do not achieve durable benefit from CPIs, and improvements are urgently needed. The clinical efficacy of CPIs depends on highly variable preexisting spontaneous T-cell immune responses. Cancer vaccines represent an independent treatment modality uniquely capable of expanding the repertoire of tumor-specific T cells in cancer patients and thus have the capacity to compensate for the variability in spontaneous T-cell responses. Vaccines are, therefore, considered attractive components in a CPI-combination strategy. RECENT FINDINGS Here we discuss recent results obtained through therapeutic vaccination against telomerase human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT). Recent publications on translational research and clinical results from phase I trials indicate that vaccination against telomerase in combination with CPIs provides relevant immune responses, negligible added toxicity, and signals of clinical efficacy. CONCLUSION In the near future, randomized data from clinical trials involving therapeutic cancer vaccines and checkpoint inhibitors will be available. Positive readout may spark broad development and allow cancer vaccines to find their place in the clinic as an important component in multiple future CPI combinations.
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12
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Gautron Moura B, Gerard CL, Testart N, Caikovski M, Wicky A, Aedo-Lopez V, Berthod G, Homicsko K, Prior JO, Dromain C, Kandalaft LE, Cuendet MA, Michielin O. Estimated Costs of the Ipilimumab-Nivolumab Therapy and Related Adverse Events in Metastatic Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010031. [PMID: 36612030 PMCID: PMC9817856 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Combined ipilimumab and nivolumab significantly improve outcomes in metastatic melanoma patients but bear an important financial impact on the healthcare system. Here, we analyze the treatment costs, focusing on irAE. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 62 melanoma patients treated with ipilimumab-nivolumab at the Lausanne University Hospital between 1 June 2016 and 31 August 2019. The frequency of irAEs and outcomes were evaluated. All melanoma-specific costs were analyzed from the first ipilimumab-nivolumab dose until the therapy given subsequently or death. A total of 54/62 (87%) patients presented at least one irAE, and 31/62 (50%) presented a grade 3-4 irAE. The majority of patients who had a complete response 12/14 (86%) and 21/28 (75%) of overall responders presented a grade 3-4 toxicity, and there were no responses in patients without toxicity. Toxicity costs represented only 3% of the total expenses per patient. The most significant contributions were medication costs (44%) and disease costs (39%), mainly disease-related hospitalization costs, not toxicity-related. Patients with a complete response had the lowest global median cost per week of follow up (EUR 2425) and patients who had progressive disease (PD), the highest one (EUR 8325). Except for one patient who had a Grade 5 toxicity (EUR 6043/week), we observe that less severe toxicity grades (EUR 9383/week for Grade 1), or even the absence of toxicity (EUR 9922/week), are associated with higher median costs per week (vs. EUR 3266/week for Grade 4 and EUR 2850/week for Grade 3). The cost of toxicities was unexpectedly low compared to the total costs, especially medication costs. Patients with higher toxicity grades had better outcomes and lower total costs due to treatment discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Gautron Moura
- Service of Oncology, Cantonal Hospital Fribourg (HFR), Chemin des Pensionnats 1-6, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (B.G.M.); (O.M.)
| | - Camille L. Gerard
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Testart
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon 46, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marian Caikovski
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Wicky
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Veronica Aedo-Lopez
- Department of Oncology, Monash Medical Centre, 823-865 Centre Road, East Bentleigh, Melbourne, VIC 3165, Australia
| | - Grégoire Berthod
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Service of Oncology, Valais Hospital (CHVR), Avenue Grand Champsec 80, 1951 Sion, Switzerland
| | - Krisztian Homicsko
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - John O. Prior
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon 46, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Clarisse Dromain
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon 46, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lana E. Kandalaft
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michel A. Cuendet
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Av., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, UNIL Sorge, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Michielin
- Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and Agora Translational Cancer Research Center, Rue du Bugnon, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, UNIL Sorge, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (B.G.M.); (O.M.)
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13
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van Breeschoten J, Ismail RK, Wouters MW, Hilarius DL, de Wreede LC, Haanen JB, Blank CU, Aarts MJ, van den Berkmortel FW, de Groot JWB, Hospers GA, Kapiteijn E, Piersma D, van Rijn RS, Stevense-den Boer MA, van der Veldt AA, Vreugdenhil G, Boers-Sonderen MJ, Suijkerbuijk KP, van den Eertwegh AJ. End-of-Life Use of Systemic Therapy in Patients With Advanced Melanoma: A Nationwide Cohort Study. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e1611-e1620. [DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE: The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies improved the overall survival of patients with advanced melanoma. It is not known how often these costly treatments with potential serious side effects are ineffectively applied in the last phase of life. This study aimed to investigate the start of a new systemic therapy within 45 and 90 days of death in Dutch patients with advanced melanoma. METHODS: We selected patients who were diagnosed with unresectable IIIC or stage IV melanoma, registered in the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry, and died between 2013 and 2019. Primary outcome was the probability of starting a new systemic therapy 45 and 90 days before death. Secondary outcomes were type of systemic therapy started, grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs), and the total costs of systemic therapies. RESULTS: Between 2013 and 2019, 3,797 patients with unresectable IIIC or stage IV melanoma were entered in the registry and died. The percentage of patients receiving a new systemic therapy within 45 and 90 days before death was significantly different between Dutch melanoma centers (varying from 6% to 23% and 20% to 46%, respectively). Thirteen percent of patients (n = 146) developed grade 3/4 AEs in the last period before death. The majority of patients with an AE required hospital admission (n = 102, 69.6%). Mean total costs of systemic therapy per cohort year of the patients who received a new systemic therapy within 90 days before death were 2.3%-2.8% of the total costs spent on melanoma therapies. CONCLUSION: The minority of Dutch patients with metastatic melanoma started a new systemic therapy in the last phase of life. However, the percentages varied between Dutch melanoma centers. Financial impact of these therapies in the last phase of life is relatively small.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper van Breeschoten
- Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rawa K. Ismail
- Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Michel W.J.M. Wouters
- Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Liesbeth C. de Wreede
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - John B. Haanen
- Department of Medical Oncology and Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Christian U. Blank
- Department of Medical Oncology and Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maureen J.B. Aarts
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology. Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Geke A.P. Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Djura Piersma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Gerard Vreugdenhil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Center, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Marye J. Boers-Sonderen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Alfons J.M. van den Eertwegh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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