The Impact of Preoperative Severe Renal Insufficiency on Poor Postsurgical Oncological Prognosis in Patients with Urothelial Carcinoma

Perioperative renal function change and oncological outcomes of radical nephroureterectomy in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma: A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The effect of radical nephroureterectomy (RNUx) on postoperative renal function in patients diagnosed with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) has not been thoroughly explored.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis including 785 patients who underwent RNUx for UTUC. We assessed the preoperative and postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) and factors related to the decline in eGFR. Additionally, we examined the effect of comorbidities (diabetes or hypertension) on the postoperative eGFR at 1 year. Cox proportional hazard models were employed to investigate the clinical effect of RNUx on oncological outcomes, including non-urothelial tract recurrence-free survival (NUTRFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The median preoperative and postoperative eGFR levels were 54.7 and 40.6 ml/min/1.73 m2 respectively. The proportions of patients with preoperative and postoperative eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were 35.9% and 5.1%, respectively. The median decline in the eGFR after surgery was 26.8%. Patients with preoperative eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 demonstrated significantly lower odds of a postoperative decline in eGFR of 25% or more. The effect of comorbidities on postoperative eGFR at 1 year was significant (P = 0.048). The 3-year NUTRFS, CSS, and OS rates were 72.9%, 85.2%, and 81.5%, respectively. Preoperative chronic kidney disease was an independent factor associated with inferior NUTRFS, CSS, and OS.

CONCLUSION

Different degrees of impairment of renal function occur among UTUC patients. Only 5.1% of patients retain a postoperative eGFR ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Preoperative renal impairment was linked to reduced odds of postoperative eGFR decrease and associated with survival. In addition, the presence of comorbidities had a significant effect on the decline in eGFR. These findings emphasize the importance of developing evidence-based perioperative treatment strategies for UTUC patients with impaired renal function.

Impact of Preoperative Plasma Potassium Levels on Oncological Outcomes, Major Complications, and 30-Day Mortality in Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

We examined the impact of preoperative plasma potassium levels (PPLs) on outcomes in patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB), hypothesizing that potassium imbalances might influence outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, 501 UCB patients undergoing RC from 2009 to 2017 at a tertiary center were analyzed. Blood samples collected a week prior to surgery defined normal and abnormal PPL based on institutional standards. We assessed overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), postoperative complications, 30-day mortality, and non-organ confined disease. Kaplan-Meier estimates, Cox proportional hazards, logistic regression, and decision curve analyses (DCA) were employed.

RESULTS

63 (13%) patients had abnormal preoperative PPLs, with 50 (10%) elevated and 13 (2.5%) decreased. In a 59 months median follow-up, 152 (31%) had disease recurrence, 197 (39%) died from any cause, and 119 (24%) from UCB. Multivariable cox regression analyses adjusting for perioperative parameters demonstrated abnormal PPL was associated with worse OS (HR=1.9, P=0.009), CSS (HR=2.8, P<0.001) and RFS (HR=2.1; P=0.007). Elevated preoperative PPLs also demonstrated significant associations with adverse outcomes in OS, CSS, and RFS (all P<0.05). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, abnormal and elevated PPLs were not associated with 30-day mortality, major 30-day postoperative complications, positive nodal disease, pT3/4 stage, and non-organ confined disease (all P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Abnormal and elevated preoperative PPLs correlate with adverse oncologic outcomes in UCB patients treated with RC. Pending external validation, preoperative PPLs might be a cost-effective, easily obtainable supplemental biomarker for enriching accuracy of outcome prediction in this highly variable maladie.

Survival of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Treated with Radical Cystectomy and Risk Factors of Glomerular Filtration Rate Loss Following Radical Cystectomy: Two Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses of Interplay Between Radical Cystectomy and Renal Function

CONTEXT

There is no high-level evidence regarding the risk factors of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) loss following radical cystectomy (RC) and survival outcomes of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing RC.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the risk factors of CKD in patients treated with RC for bladder cancer and to assess overall and oncological survival of patients with CKD who underwent RC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement, two systematic reviews were performed for studies published before September 30, 2022, assessing (1) risk factors of renal function (RF) decline following RC and (2) overall and oncological outcomes of CKD patients treated with RC.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A total of 21 and 17 studies were included for qualitative and quantitative syntheses, respectively. The first meta-analysis of ten studies (15 502 patients) identified these factors to be significantly associated with GFR loss following RC: advanced age, lower baseline RF, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), diabetes mellitus, hypertension, postoperative hydronephrosis, ureteroenteric stricture, and locally advanced disease (hazard ratios [HRs] 1.03, 1.22, 1.5, 1.27, 1.24, 1.69, 1.92, and 5.13, respectively), while sex, preoperative hydronephrosis, perioperative chemotherapy, and diversion type were not. The second meta-analysis of seven studies (6900 patients) demonstrated significantly worse metastasis-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival in patients with higher CKD stages than in those with lower stages (HRs 1.54, 2.09, and 1.47, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that older age, lower baseline RF, higher CCI, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, postoperative hydronephrosis, ureteroenteric stricture, and locally advanced disease are associated with long-term GFR loss following RC. In addition, patients with higher stages of CKD have worse long-term overall and oncological outcomes following RC. These data may help in counseling and decision-making regarding therapy and preventive measures.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Several factors have been identified that can help identify patients at risk for glomerular filtration rate loss after radical cystectomy (RC). Chronic kidney disease is associated with poor cancer- and non-cancer-specific outcomes following RC.

The long-term outcome of nephron-sparing surgery versus radical nephroureterectomy for organ-localized upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma: a population-based study of 1969 patients

PURPOSE

To compare the long-term outcomes after nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) and radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) and investigate prognostic factors for organ-localized upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) as the role of NSS for UTUC remains unclear.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with organ-localized UTUC between 2004 and 2020 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The propensity score overlap weighting (PSOW) process, Cox regression analysis, Kaplan‒Meier analysis, competing-risks models, and subgroup analysis were employed to compare the outcomes and identify prognostic factors. The overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) nomograms were developed and evaluated using the concordance index (C-index) and calibration curve.

RESULTS

A total of 1969 patients were included. After the process of PSOW, baseline data were well balanced. RNU was associated with similar OS and CSS than NSS in the overall cohort. Age, T stage, and histologic grade were independent prognostic factors for OS and CSS, while marital status was an independent prognostic factor only for OS. Four and three predictors were identified for developing the OS and CSS nomograms, respectively. C-index (OS 0.637, CSS 0.670), calibration curve, and Kaplan-Meier analysis proved excellent predictive accuracy of nomograms.

CONCLUSION

Patients accepting RNU had a comparative or better outcome in each sample group. NSS achieved a similar oncologic control for selected patients with organ-localized UTUC.

Impact of nephroureterectomy on postoperative renal function in upper tract urothelial carcinoma: A multicenter retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of radical nephroureterectomy on postoperative renal function in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC).

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 645 patients with UTUC treated with radical nephroureterectomy between January 2000 and May 2022. The primary outcome was the rate of postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 . Secondary outcomes included the rate of eGFR decline, identification of factors related to eGFR decline, and the impact of comorbidities (diabetes or cardiovascular disease) on postoperative eGFR at 1 year.

RESULTS

The median preoperative and postoperative eGFR levels were 55.6 and 43.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 , respectively. The rate of patients with preoperative and postoperative eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was 40.9% and 9.0%, respectively. The median decline in eGFR after surgery was 25.1%. The presence of preoperative unilateral hydronephrosis and eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was significantly associated with a low decline of postoperative eGFR and poor survival. The impact of the presence of comorbidities on postoperative eGFR at 1 year was significant (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Impaired renal function is prevalent in patients with UTUC. The rate of patients with postoperative eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was 9.0%. The presence of preoperative renal impairment was significantly related to a low decline in postoperative eGFR and poor survival. The presence of comorbidities had a significant effect on eGFR decline 1 year after radical nephroureterectomy.

Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET)-computed tomography (CT) in the initial staging of bladder cancer: a single institution experience

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (¹⁸F-FDG PET)-computed tomography (CT) scan for staging urinary bladder cancer. The study also sought to determine the effect of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT on management decisions and its implications for patient care.

METHODS

A total of 133 patients with bladder cancer who had both conventional imaging and ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT for initial staging were identified. All ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT findings were classified as true positive, true negative, false positive, or false negative based on their potential to impact the intent of treatment. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated using the standard definition. Furthermore, the rate of change in therapy intent was determined for the entire sample and for subgroups with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients.

RESULTS

The overall concordance rate between PET/CT and conventional imaging was around 54%. On conventional images, 18% of patients had localized disease, which was upstaged in 6.8% of cases using ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT. Pelvic lymph node involvement was detected in 18.8% of cases using conventional imaging, which was downstaged to localized disease in 4.5% of cases using ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT. While 63.2% of patients had systemic disease on a CT scan, 24.7% of cases were downstaged using PET/CT. Overall, the rate of change in therapy intent was 26.3% for the entire sample, 24.5% for NMIBC subgroup, and 27.3% for MIBC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The study found that ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT is an effective and accurate tool for staging bladder cancer in newly diagnosed patients. Approximately one quarter of patients had a change in management intent based on ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT results. The study suggests that PET/CT should be used as a standard for newly diagnosed patients, but more research is needed to confirm this.

Effect of decreased renal function on poor oncological outcome after radical cystectomy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact of preoperative renal impairment on the oncological outcomes of patients with urothelial carcinoma who underwent radical cystectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with urothelial carcinoma who underwent radical cystectomy from 2004 to 2017. All patients who underwent preoperative ^99mTc-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid renal scintigraphy (DTPA) were identified. We divided the patients into two groups according to their glomerular filtration rates (GFRs): GFR group 1, GFR≥90 mL/min/1.73 m²; GFR group 2, 60≤GFR<90 mL/min/1.73 m². We included 89 patients in GFR group 1 and 246 patients in GFR group 2 and compared the clinicopathological characteristics and oncological outcomes between the two groups.

RESULTS

The mean time required for recurrence was 125.5±8.0 months in GFR group 1 and 85.7±7.4 months in GFR group 2 (p=0.030). The mean cancer-specific survival was 131.7±7.8 months in GFR group 1 and 95.5±6.9 months in GFR group 2 (p=0.051). The mean overall survival was 123.3±8.1 months in GFR group 1 and 79.5±6.6 months in GFR group 2 (p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative GFR values in the range of 60≤GFR<90 mL/min/1.73 m² are independent prognostic factors for poor recurrence-free survival, cancer-specific survival, and overall survival in patients after radical cystectomy compared with GFR values of ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m².

Segmental ureterectomy for high-risk ureteral carcinoma: a preliminary report

BACKGROUND

EAU guidelines strongly recommend kidney sparing surgery (KSS) as the primary treatment option for the low-risk UTUC patients. While there are few reports involving the KSS treated for the high-risk counterparts, especially the ureteral resection.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the segmental ureterectomy (SU) for the patients with high-risk ureteral carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included 20 patients from May 2017 to December 2021 who underwent segmental ureterectomy (SU) in Henan Provincial People's Hospital. The overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) were evaluated. Besides, the ECOG scores and postoperative complications were also included.

RESULTS

As of December 2022, the mean OS was 62.1months (95%CI:55.6-68.6months) and the mean PFS was 45.0months (95%CI:35.9-54.1months). The median OS and median PFS were not reached. The 3-year OS rate was 70% and the 3-year PFS rate was 50%. The percentage of Clavien I and II complications was 15%.

CONCLUSION

For the selected patients with high-risk ureteral carcinoma, the efficacy and safety of segmental ureterectomy were satisfactory. But we still need to conduct prospective or randomized study to validate the value of SU in patients with high-risk ureteral carcinoma.

Nephron-Sparing Approaches in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Current and Future Strategies

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is a relatively rare cancer, and much of the approach to treatment has been derived from strategies employed in treating bladder cancer. Radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) is regarded as the gold standard treatment for UTUC. However, due to potential complications, such as renal function impairment, that can affect oncologic outcomes, the demand for nephron-sparing treatment to effectively treat cancer while preserving renal function has increased. As a result, various treatment methods for low-grade, low-volume UTUC, such as segmental ureterectomy, endoscopic resection, and intraluminal therapy, have been attempted and reported. Although these treatment modalities have exhibited acceptable oncological results, further studies are required. In the future, the introduction of new technologies, such as improved diagnostic and surgical equipment, and new drug delivery systems, could enhance the effectiveness of nephron-sparing strategies in the treatment of UTUC. Additionally, understanding the biological and genetic characteristics of UTUC that distinguish it from those of bladder cancer will also aid in establishing strategies for nephron-sparing.

Clinical Implication of Preoperative Renal Function on Oncological Outcomes in Patients with Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma after Radical Nephroureterectomy

This study aims to evaluate the impact of preoperative renal function on oncological outcomes in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent RNU between 2000 and 2012 at six academic centers. The patients were stratified into two groups based on preoperative renal function: eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (chronic kidney disease; CKD) and eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (non-CKD). We investigated oncological outcomes, including overall survival, cancer-specific survival, and progression-free survival dichotomized by preoperative renal function. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to determine if preoperative CKD was associated with oncological outcomes. In total, 1733 patients were eligible for the present study (CKD = 707 and non-CKD = 1026). Significant differences were noted in the clinical and pathologic features among the two groups, including age, sex, tumor localization, pathological T stage, tumor grade, and number of patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy. The estimated five-year overall survival (79.4 vs. 67.5%, log-rank p < 0.001), cancer-specific survival (83.5 vs. 73.6%, log-rank p < 0.001), and progression-free survival (74.6 vs. 61.5%, log-rank p < 0.001) were significantly different between the two groups, longer in the non-CKD group. Upon multivariable analysis, preoperative CKD status was associated with increased risk of overall mortality, cancer-specific mortality, and progression (p = 0.010, p = 0.016, and p = 0.008, respectively). UTUC patients with preoperative CKD had a higher risk of poor overall survival, cancer-specific survival, and progression-free survival after RNU than those without CKD.

Association between preoperative serum Cystatin-C levels and postsurgical oncological prognosis in patients with PRCC: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Cystatin-C (Cys-C) is a predictor of several malignancies. However, whether Cys-C levels predict prognosis in patients with papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC) remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between Cys-C and clinical outcomes in patients with PRCC.

METHODS

The medical records of 137 patients with PRCC who underwent surgery at our institution from January 2008 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Data were divided into two subgroups based on cutoff values and the relationship between the Cys-C group and their clinical outcomes was assessed.

RESULTS

By the last follow-up, 62 patients had died of various causes, 53 of whom died from PRCC. Sixty patients suffered recurrence or metastasis during follow-up. Based on the cutoff value, the patients were divided into two groups: low Cys-C group (Cys-C < 1.25 mg/L, n = 92) and high Cys-C group (Cys-C ≥ 1.25 mg/L, n = 45). Pathological classification and serum Cys-C levels were shown to be independent prognostic factors affecting clinical outcomes, according to multivariate Cox regression analysis (p < 0.05). After adjusting the Cox proportional hazards model, the risk of death was elevated in the high Cys-C group. The results of the area under the curve for time-dependent receiver operating characteristics analysis indicated that Cys-C is a stable and reliable prognostic biomarker for predicting survival in patients with PRCC. Forest plots, constructed to better reflect the comparison of hazard ratios between the two groups, confirmed that Cys-C levels were significantly associated with worsening overall survival.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to examine the relationship between preoperative serum Cys-C levels and prognostic overall survival in patients with PRCC. Cys-C may be a useful biomarker for preoperative screening of high-risk patients who may require adjuvant therapy.

Renal Morbidity Following Radical Cystectomy in Patients with Bladder Cancer

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are poor candidates for standard treatments for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and may be more likely to experience adverse outcomes when diagnosed with MIBC.

Objective

To investigate factors associated with the development of advanced CKD following radical cystectomy.

Design setting and participants

Using national Veterans Health Administration utilization files, we identified 3360 patients who underwent radical cystectomy for MIBC between 2004 and 2018.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

We examined factors associated with the development of advanced CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of <30 ml/min/1.73 m²) after radical cystectomy using multivariable logistic and proportional hazard regression, with and without consideration of competing risks. We examined survival using Kaplan-Meier product limit estimates and proportional hazard regression.

Results and limitations

The median age at surgery was 67 yr and the mean preoperative eGFR was 69.1 ± 20.3 ml/min/1.73 m². Approximately three out of ten patients (n = 962, 29%) progressed to advanced CKD within 12 mo. Older age (hazard ratio [HR] per 5-yr increase 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-1.20), preoperative hydronephrosis (HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.29-1.76), adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.00-1.41), higher comorbidity index (HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.11-1.16 per point), and lower baseline kidney function (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.73-0.78) were associated with the development of advanced CKD. Baseline kidney function at the time of surgery was associated with survival. Generalizability is limited due to the predominantly male cohort.

Conclusions

Impaired kidney function at baseline is associated with progression to advanced CKD and mortality after radical cystectomy. Preoperative kidney function should be incorporated into risk stratification algorithms for patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

Patient summary

Impaired kidney function at baseline is associated with progression to advanced chronic kidney disease and mortality after radical cystectomy.

Prognostic value of the endothelial activation and stress index in patients with upper tract urothelial cancer undergoing radical nephroureterectomy

Purpose

The relationship with endothelial activation and stress index (EASIX), which represents the degree of endothelial dysfunction, is unwell known in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). The present study aims to assess the prognostic value of the EASIX for recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with UTUC who underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 627 patients with UTUC who underwent RNU without neoadjuvant chemotherapy at three hospitals between 2002 and 2019. EASIX scores were calculated using the formula “serum lactate dehydrogenase (U/L)×creatinine (mg/dL)/platelet count (10⁹/L)” and evaluated based on log₂-transformed values. We divided the patients according to the EASIX score (>1.27 vs. ≤1.27).

Results

Among 627 patients, 380 were finally analyzed. Using maximally selected log-rank statistics, the optimal EASIX cutoff value was 1.27 on the log₂ scale. The baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups except for age. The high EASIX score group had worse RFS and OS than the low EASIX score group (log-rank p=0.001 and p=0.006, respectively). At 5 years, the mean RFS and OS difference between the low and high EASIX score groups was 11.1 and 7.35 months, respectively. High EASIX score remained a key prognosticator of RFS and OS after RNU in multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

EASIX score may represent endothelial dysfunction in patients with UTUC and may serve as a readily available prognostic factor for oncologic outcomes.

Oncologic Outcomes of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Versus Urothelial Carcinoma With Squamous Differentiation After Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

In this study we aim to compare clinicopathological characteristics and cancer specific survival between patients treated with radical cystectomy for pure squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation (SqD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed data of 1737 consecutive patients treated with radical cystectomy and urinary diversion between January 2004 and February 2014. Only patients with pure SCC or SqD were included in the analysis. Squamous differentiation was defined as intercellular bridges or keratinization in the tumor. Clinicopathological data and recurrence free survival (RFS) were compared between patients diagnosed with SCC and SqD.

RESULTS

SCC and SqD were found in 318 and 223 patients, respectively. Mean age was 57 ± 8.3 years in SCC and 58.8 ± 7.8 in SqD (P = .008). A higher proportion of female patients was observed in SCC group compared to SqD (31.8% vs. 22% P < .0001). Patients with SqD were more likely to have extravesical (58.3% vs. 46.2%: P = .006) and nodal positive disease (34.5% vs. 14.5%: P < .0001) than pure SCC patients. Bilharzial eggs were found in 61% of SCC vs. 46% of SqD (P = .001).; The median (IQR) follow up period for SCC and SqD was 63 (12-112) months and 23 months (9-74.7), respectively. The 5-year RFS for SCC and SqD were 77% and 59.8 %, respectively (P < .0001).; Multivariate cox regression analysis identified advanced pT stage (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3-2.86, P = .0001), nodal positive disease (OR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1-2.48, P = .01) and SqD histology (OR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.14-2.31, P = .007 as independent predictors of 5-year RFS.

CONCLUSION

Patient with SCC had significantly higher 5-year RFS in comparison to SqD. The higher rate of extravesical disease and lymph node metastasis in SqD patients is indicative of aggressive behavior of this histologic type.

Multimodal kidney‐preserving approach in localised and locally advanced high‐risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Objectives

Multimodal kidney‐preserving (MKP) strategies may be an option for patients with localised or locally advanced high‐risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who have a relative contraindication for nephroureterectomy (NU).

Materials and methods

We studied patients with UTUC who were managed with MKP strategies, consisting of systemic anticancer therapy, with or without local/topical strategies after endoscopic control of intraluminal tumours. Primary end points were overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

Fourteen patients received MKP treatment between August 2013 and April 2020. Median baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate was 43 mL/min/1.73m². MKP was mainly pursued to avoid dialysis (10/14, 71%), followed by low performance status and/or comorbidities (2/14, 14%). All patients had received systemic therapy: chemotherapy (64%) and immunotherapy (36%). Endoscopic control and/or laser ablation was feasible in 7 (50%) patients. Calculated overall risk of non‐organ confined disease was 35%. Predicted 2‐year and 5‐year relapse‐free probability (RFP) was 74% (24–92%) and 62% (10–85%), respectively. Median follow‐up was 31 months (95% CI: 22.6, NE), median OS was 48.1 months (95% CI: 48.1, NE) and 2‐year OS probability was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.71, 1). Median metastases‐free survival was 48.1 months (95% CI: 26.8, NE), median PFS was 22.4 months (95% CI: 15.6, NE) and 2‐year PFS probability was 0.48 (0.26, 0.89).

Conclusion

Management of high‐risk localised or locally advanced UTUC with MKP strategies was associated with good tolerance, preservation of renal function, and comparable PFS and OS to predicted in vulnerable patients. Prospective studies with more patients are needed to evaluate these possible benefits relative to current standards.

Prognostic impact of eligibility for adjuvant immunotherapy in locally advanced urothelial cancer

Objective

To evaluate the effect of postoperative pathological findings related to the eligibility of adjuvant immunotherapy on oncologic outcomes in patients with localized and locally advanced muscle‐invasive bladder carcinoma (MIBC) and upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC).

Patients and methods

We retrospectively evaluated 1082 patients treated with radical cystectomy (n = 597) and nephroureterectomy (n = 485) between January 2000 and April 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: pT3‐4 or pN+ without neoadjuvant chemotherapy and ypT2‐4 or pN+ treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (trial‐eligible group) or others (trial‐ineligible group). The primary outcome was the effect of trial eligibility for adjuvant immunotherapy on disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes included the additional effect of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) status to the clinical trial criteria on prognosis and a risk model development.

Results

The median ages of the patients were 69 and 72 years in the MIBC and UTUC groups, respectively. Fifty‐two percent of patients met the trial inclusion criteria. Trial eligibility was significantly associated with poor DFS and OS among patients with MIBC and UTUC. LVI‐positive status was significantly associated with poor prognosis among patients in the trial‐eligible group. A very high risk (LVI+ or pN+ among the pT3‐4 or ypT2‐4) was significantly associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusion

A total of 52% of patients were eligible for adjuvant immunotherapy. Trial eligibility was significantly associated with a poor prognosis. LVI+ and pN+ may play a key role in candidate selection for adjuvant immunotherapy.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate as a Prognostic Factor in Urothelial Carcinoma of the Upper Urinary Tract: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Preoperative renal function is associated with worse outcomes in patients undergoing radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). The purpose of this systemic review and meta-analysis was to determine the association of preoperative renal function with oncological outcome in patients who underwent RNU. We searched articles published up to March 2021 in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase by combining "urothelial carcinoma", "radical nephroureterectomy", and "estimated glomerular filtration rate". We also manually screened the reference list for publications following general guidelines recommended by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. The relationship between preoperative renal function and survival was expressed as overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS). This review and meta-analysis included 13 studies involving a total of 4668 patients who received RNU. Pooled analysis showed significant negative association of preoperative renal function with PFS (HR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.23-1.80, p < 0.00001), CSS (HR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.38-1.92, p < 0.00001), and OS (HR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.10-1.35, p < 0.00001). Patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who received RNU showed a significant negative association of preoperative renal function with survival.

Does neoadjuvant chemotherapy have therapeutic benefit for node-positive upper tract urothelial carcinoma? Results of a multi-center cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The indications of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for lymph node-positive upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) have not been investigated regarding improved survival outcomes. Our specific aim was to compare the clinical outcomes of clinically node-positive UTUC patients who were treated by NAC followed by radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) or upfront RNU followed by adjuvant chemotherapy (AC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among 966 UTUC patients, we identified 89 with clinical nodal involvement who received either NAC before RNU nor AC after upfront RNU. Cox proportional hazard models were employed to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy modality on the oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the patient cohort, 36 (40.4%) received NAC followed by RNU, whereas 53 (59.6%) underwent RNU followed by AC. Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor size ≥3 cm, clinical T4, and gemcitabine and cisplatin regimen were independent risk factors for disease recurrence, whereas NAC followed by RNU was an independent factor for favorable RFS. Furthermore, regarding cancer-specific survival (CSS), NAC followed by RNU remained an independent factor for favorable CSS. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, the 1-year and 2-year RFS were 67.9% and 47.0%, respectively, in the NAC+RNU group, which were significantly higher than those in the RNU+AC group (43.9% and 24.6%, respectively, P = 0.006). Moreover, the 1-year and 2-year CSS were 80.5% and 64.2%, respectively, in the NAC+RNU group, which were higher than those in the RNU+AC group (68.6% and 48.2%, respectively, P = 0.016).

CONCLUSION

For node-positive UTUC patients, NAC followed by RNU was more clinically beneficial than RNU followed by AC.

Smaller decline of renal function after nephroureterectomy predicts poorer prognosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma: a multicentre retrospective study

PURPOSE

Renal function is frequently impaired in the patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma. We aimed to evaluate the impact of renal function and its change after surgery on survival rates in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma after nephroureterectomy.

METHODS

The study cohort comprised 755 patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma who underwent nephroureterectomy between 1995 and 2016 at nine hospitals in Japan. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated using the three-variable Japanese equation for glomerular filtration rate estimation from serum creatinine level and age. Outcomes were recurrence-free, cancer-specific and overall survivals. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used.

RESULTS

Median patients' age was 72 years old. Pre- and post-surgical median estimated glomerular filtration rate were 55.5 and 42.9 ml/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate decline after surgery, which represents function of the affected side kidney, was 13.1 ml/min/1.73 m2. The 5-year recurrence-free, cancer-specific and overall survivals were 68.3, 79.4 and 74.0%, respectively. Multivariate analysis indicated that lower preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate and estimated glomerular filtration rate decline were associated with poorer recurrence-free, cancer-specific and overall survivals, but post-operative estimated glomerular filtration rate was not. Estimated glomerular filtration rate decline was more significant poor-prognosticator than preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate. Proportions of the patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 before surgery were 50.6 and 73.2% in organ-confined disease and locally advanced disease, respectively (P < 0.0001). After surgery, they were 91.6 and 89.8%, respectively (P = 0.3896).

CONCLUSIONS

Lower preoperative renal function, especially of the affected side kidney, was significantly associated with poor prognosis after nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Many patients with locally advanced disease have reduced renal function at diagnosis and even more after surgery.

The effect of number of treatment cycles of platinum-based first-line chemotherapy on maximum radiological response in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

The number of cycles of platinum-based first-line chemotherapy associated with the maximum tumor response in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma is not yet established. We investigated the association between the number of cycles and the maximum radiological response of first-line chemotherapy.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 167 patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma treated with platinum-based first-line chemotherapy between May 2003 and December 2020. The primary outcome was estimating the number of cycles associated with the maximum radiological response and progression disease rate within the 6 cycles. The radiological response was evaluated by the RECIST v1.1. The secondary outcomes included the difference in radiological response rate and the impact on overall survival between the cisplatin-based and carboplatin-based regimens.

RESULTS

The maximum radiological response was -22% at Cycles 2. It was significantly decreased at Cycles 4 (-15%) compared with Cycles 2 (P < 0.001). The progression disease rate within the first 2, 4, and 6 cycles were 21% and 63%, and 84%, respectively. Radiological response was no significant difference between the cisplatin-based and carboplatin-based regimens. However, it was significantly decreased in the carboplatin-based regimen at Cycles 4 (-17%) compared with Cycles 2 (-22%; P = 0.004). Background-adjusted overall survival was not significantly different in between the cisplatin-based and carboplatin-based regimens (hazard rate 1.27; P = 0.337).

CONCLUSION

The maximum radiological response was -22% at Cycles 2. The radiological response was significantly different between Cycle 2 and 4. More than half of patients had disease progression within the first 4 cycles.

Comparison of oncologic and functional outcomes between radical nephroureterectomy and segmental ureterectomy for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma

This study aims to compare oncologic and functional outcomes after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) and segmental ureterectomy (SU) in patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). We retrospectively collected data on patients who underwent either RNU or SU of UTUC. Propensity score matching was performed among 394 cases to yield a final cohort of 40 RNU and 40 SU cases. Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log-rank test were used to compare overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), progression-free survival (PFS), and intravesical recurrence-free survival (IVRFS) between the groups. We also compared the change in postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). There was no significant difference in terms of CSS, PFS, and IVRFS between the RNU and SU groups, but the RNU group had a better OS than the SU group (p = 0.032). Postoperative eGFR was better preserved in the SU group than in the RNU group (p < 0.001). SU provides comparable CSS, PFS, and IVRFS for patients with UTUC compared to RNU, even in patients with advanced-stage and/or high-grade cancer. Further, SU achieves better preservation of renal function.

Prognostic significance of the Ki67 index and programmed death-ligand 1 expression after radical cystectomy in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the association between Ki67 index and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients after RC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 262 MIBC patients treated with RC between April 2004 and April 2020. The impact of Ki67 index and PD-L1 expression on prognosis was evaluated by univariate Cox regression analysis. In addition, a pathomolecular risk score, including Ki67 and PD-L1, was developed to predict prognosis and pathological factors. We also evaluated the link between the Ki67 index and PD-L1 under the IL-6 stimulation in the bladder cancer cell lines of T24 and 5637 cells.

RESULTS

The median age and follow-up period was 69 years and 52 months, respectively. Ki67 index and PD-L1 expression were significantly associated with tumor recurrence. Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that pT3-4, mixed histology, lymphovascular invasion positive (LVI+), pN+, Ki67-high (>17%), and PD-L1+ were significantly associated with recurrence-free survival (RFS). The pathomolecular risk score was developed using resection margin+ (1 point), mixed histology (1 point), LVI+ (1 point), pN+ (1 point), and Ki67-high (1 point). RFS and overall survival were significantly shorter in patients with higher pathomolecular risk scores (>1) than in those with lower risk scores (≤1). Cell proliferation was significantly increased in the T24 and 5637 cells under the IL-6 stimulation, while PD-L1 expression was not.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant effect of Ki67-high and PD-L1 expression on poor prognosis was observed in patients with MIBC. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the precise mechanisms of cell proliferation and PD-L1 expression in patients with MIBC.

Comparison of renal function after open radical cystectomy, extracorporeal robot assisted radical cystectomy, and intracorporeal robot assisted radical cystectomy

PURPOSE

Renal function outcomes following robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) have not been well established. We sought to compare long-term renal function outcomes between open radical cystectomy, RARC with extracorporeal urinary diversion and intracorporeal urinary diversion at a high volume institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our institutional bladder cancer database for patients who underwent RC from 2010 to 2019 with pre-operative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) > 45 ml/min/1.73m². Changes in renal function were assessed through locally weighted scatter plot smoothing and comparison of median eGFR between surgical groups. Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3B was defined as eGFR < 45 ml/min/1.73m². Renal function decline was defined as a ≥10 ml/min/1.73m² drop in eGFR. Kaplan Meier method with log-rank was used to compare CKD 3B-free survival and renal function decline. Cox Proportional Hazards model was used to identify predictors of CKD 3B.

RESULTS

Six hundred and forty four patients were included with median follow-up of 32 months (IQR 12-56). Preoperative characteristics were similar among the groups with no differences in median pre-operative eGFR (ORC: 74.6, extracorporeal urinary diversion: 74.3, intracorporeal urinary diversion: 71.6 ml/min/1.73m², P=0.15). Median postoperative eGFR on follow up was not different between groups (P=0.56). 33% of patients developed CKD 3B. There were no differences in CKD 3B-free survival by surgical approach (P = 0.23) or urinary diversion (P = 0.09). 64% of patients experienced renal function decline with a median time of 2.4 years (P 0.23). Predictors of CKD were pathologic T3 disease or greater (HR: 1.77, P = 0.01), ureteroenteric anastomotic stricture (HR: 2.80, P < 0.001), preoperative CKD Stage 2 (HR: 1.81, P =0.02), and preoperative CKD Stage 3A (HR: 5.56, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Renal function decline is common after RC. Tumor stage, pre-operative eGFR, and ureteral stricture development, not surgical approach, influence renal function decline.

Measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR) significantly and rapidly decreases after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer

Precise determination of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is essential for the management of patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). We aim to describe the early evolution of measured GFR (mGFR) after radical cystectomy and urinary diversion (RCUD) and to identify risk factors for GFR decline. GFR measurement using ⁵¹Cr-EDTA continuous infusion, estimated GFR (eGFR) from five published equations and renal scintigraphy with split renal function determination were performed before and 6 months after RCUD. Chronic Kidney Disease (mGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²) and GFR stages were defined according to the KDIGO guidelines using mGFR. Twenty-seven patients (men 85%, median age 65, IQR 59; 68 years) were included. A total of 20 (74%) patients experienced significant mGFR decline at 6 months postoperatively. Median mGFR decreased from 84.1 pre-operatively (IQR 65.3; 97.2) to 69.9 mL/min/1.73 m² (IQR 55.0; 77.9) 6 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Thirteen (48%) patients had a progression to a worse GFR stage. Of the 22 patients without pre-operative CKD, 5 (23%) developed post-operative CKD. Diabetes mellitus was more frequent in patients in the highest tertile of relative mGFR decline (44% vs. 11%, p = 0.02) and platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy tended to be more frequently used in these patients (44% vs. 17%, p = 0.06). Importantly, pre-operative weight was independently and negatively associated with post-operative mGFR and with mGFR slope in multivariable analyses. In this prospective series, we demonstrated that early and significant mGFR decline occurred after RCUD and perioperative platinum-based chemotherapy, especially in patients with diabetes mellitus and overweight.

The preoperative serum cystatin-C as an independent prognostic factor for survival in upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Cystatin-C (Cys-C) has been reported as a valuable prognostic biomarker in various malignancies. However, its effect on upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) patients has not been investigated before. Thus, to explore the impact of Cys-C on survival outcomes in patients undergoing radical nephroureterectomy (RNU), a total of 538 patients with UTUC who underwent RNU between 2005 and 2014 in our center (West China Hospital, Chengdu, China) were included in this study. Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between Cys-C and survival outcomes using SPSS version 22.0. The cutoff value of Cys-C was set as 1.4 mg l⁻¹ using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Youden index. The mean age of patients included was 66.1 ± 11.1 years, and the median follow-up duration was 38 (interquartile range: 19–56) months. Overall, 162 (30.1%) patients had elevated Cys-C, and they were much older and had worse renal function than those with Cys-C <1.4 mg l⁻¹ (both P < 0.001). Meanwhile, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the group with elevated Cys-C had worse cancer-specific survival (CSS, P = 0.001), disease recurrence-free survival (RFS, P = 0.003), and overall survival (OS, P < 0.001). Multivariable Cox analysis suggested that the elevated Cys-C was identified as an independent prognostic predictor of CSS (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.997, 95% confidential interval [CI]: 1.331–2.996), RFS (HR: 1.429, 95% CI: 1.009–2.023), and OS (HR: 1.989, 95% CI: 1.366–2.896). In conclusion, our result revealed that the elevated preoperative serum Cys-C was significantly associated with worse outcomes in UTUC patients undergoing RNU.

Unusual presentation of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma in Taiwan: Direct comparison from Taiwan-Japan UTUC Collaboration Cohort

OBJECTIVES

To carry out a comparison of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma characteristics and behavior between patients in Taiwan and Japan.

METHODS

A Taiwan urinary tract urothelial carcinoma cohort was obtained from Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and a Japan urinary tract urothelial carcinoma cohort from Hirosaki University Hospital. The inclusion criteria were urinary tract urothelial carcinoma patients who underwent radical nephroureterectomy. Those who received perioperative chemotherapy were excluded. Finally, 765 patients in the Taiwan cohort and 325 in the Japan cohort were analyzed. The end-point of this study was to study the natural course of urinary tract urothelial carcinoma within 5 years between these two groups.

RESULTS

The main finding was that urinary tract urothelial carcinoma patients in Taiwan were younger (P < 0.001), more were women (P < 0.001), with low-stage disease (P < 0.001), with more chronic kidney disease (P < 0.001), with less smoking history (P < 0.001), with more bladder cancer history (P = 0.002), with more multifocal (P < 0.001) and less high-grade disease (P = 0.015), as well as less lymphovascular invasion (P < 0.001) and more squamous differentiation (P < 0.001). However, the multivariate Cox regression analysis showed no racial difference in oncologic outcome, such as intravesical recurrence, systemic recurrence or cancer-specific death in primary and propensity-matched cohorts. Bladder cancer history was found to be the most important factor predicting intravesical recurrences, whereas stage was strongly associated with systemic recurrence and cancer specific mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical characteristics of urinary tract urothelial carcinoma in Taiwan are significantly different from those of urinary tract urothelial carcinoma in Japan. However, there is no racial difference in stage-specific oncologic outcome after standard nephroureterectomy.

Influence of pretreatment quality of life on prognosis in patients with urothelial carcinoma

BACKGROUND

We investigated the association between the pretreatment quality of life (QOL) and overall survival (OS) in patients with urothelial carcinoma (UC), as the influence of pretreatment QOL on prognosis remains unclear in patients with localized and metastatic UC.

METHODS

Between June 2013 and May 2019, we retrospectively investigated 205 patients with UC who received radical cystectomy or nephroureterectomy for non-metastatic UC (M0 group) or systemic chemotherapy for metastatic UC (M1 group). Patients answered the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire C30 (QLQ-C30) before the treatments. Patients were stratified into two groups: QOL high and low according to the optimal cutoff scores which were defined by receiver operating characteristic curve. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW)-adjusted multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to investigate the clinical implication of pretreatment QOL score on OS in patients with UC.

RESULTS

The number of patients in the M0 and M1 groups was 125 and 80, respectively. Optimal cutoff values in global, fatigue, pain, appetite loss, physical, and role scores were < 50, > 33, > 33, > 16, < 80, and < 67, respectively. IPTW-adjusted multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that appetite loss score indicated a significantly poorer OS in the M1 group. No significant association of QOL with OS was observed in the M0 group.

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment QOL of appetite loss may predict poor prognosis of patients with metastatic UC.

Multicenter prospective study validating the efficacy of a quantitative assessment tool for frailty in patients with urological cancers

We prospectively validate the efficacy of the frailty discriminant score (FDS) in individuals with urological cancers, as there has been growing importance in evaluating frailty in clinical practice. A prospective, multicenter study was conducted from February 2017 to April 2019. We enrolled 258 patients with urological cancers and 301 community-dwelling participants who were assessed for frailty. Frailty was assessed using FDS that includes ten items, such as physical, mental, and blood biochemical tests. The primary outcome was the non-inferiority (margin 5%) of FDS in discriminating patients with urological cancers from controls (Ctrl). The sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve for each predictive test were calculated. The secondary endpoints included the prediction of overall survival between patients with urological cancer who have high and low FDS. FDS was significantly higher in patients with urological cancers than that in the Ctrl. The AUROC curves for individuals with non-prostate cancers (such as bladder cancer, upper tract urothelial carcinoma, and renal cell carcinoma; 0.942) and those with prostate cancer (0.943) were within the non-inferior margin. The overall survival values were significantly lower in patients with higher FDS score than in those with lower FDS score. The study met its primary and secondary endpoints. The FDS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing frailty and prognosis in patients with urological cancers.

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy in a patient with muscle-invasive bladder cancer following radiotherapy for prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer following radiotherapy for prostate cancer is rare. We reported a case of muscle-invasive bladder cancer who underwent robot-assisted radical cystectomy following radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 72-year-old man was referred to our division with a muscle-invasive bladder cancer. He had a history of intensity-modulated radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer. After three courses of platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy, he obtained a radiologic complete response. He elected for robot-assisted radical cystectomy, standard lymph node dissection, and intracorporeal ileal conduit urinary diversion. Pathological findings revealed no residual tumor within the bladder and residual tumor in the prostate. He had discharged without any complications; and quality of life had improved.

CONCLUSION

A robot-assisted approach might be a potential option for well-selected patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer who have previously received radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer.

Postoperative weight loss followed by radical cystectomy predicts poor prognosis in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer

We aimed to investigate the impact of postoperative weight loss following radical cystectomy (RC) on patients' prognoses. RC and urinary diversion were performed in 512 consecutive patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer at our hospitals between May 1996 and July 2018. Demographic clinical information, pre- and postoperative serum albumin, hemoglobin, and weight were evaluated retrospectively at 1 month. We also evaluated the association of weight loss with complications and overall survival (OS) as estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Risk factors for poor OS were determined by Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighted (IPTW)-adjusted Cox regression analysis. In 385 patients who met the study search criteria, median postoperative weight loss from baseline at 1 week and 1 month was 1.1 (- 1.8%) and 3.2 (- 5.4%) kg, respectively. Patients with significant weight loss (defined as ≥ 7.5% at 1 month) had higher-grade complications within 1 month and had significantly shorter OS than those with weight loss of < 7.5%. Type of urinary diversion, loss of serum albumin, and loss of hemoglobin were not significantly associated with weight loss. IPTW-adjusted Cox regression analysis showed that such significant weight loss was an independent risk factor for poor OS. Weight loss followed by radical cystectomy was significantly associated with poor prognosis in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Asymptomatic recurrence detection and cost-effectiveness in urothelial carcinoma

For the management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer or upper tract urothelial carcinoma, the set guidelines recommend regular surveillance after radical cystectomy or radical nephroureterectomy. However, the prognostic benefit of regular oncological surveillance remains controversial in the absence of prospective studies although several retrospective studies with relatively large sample sizes have demonstrated the association between asymptomatic recurrence and better oncological outcomes. Seven out of eight studies reported that patients diagnosed with symptomatic recurrence showed significantly poorer prognosis in comparison to those diagnosed with asymptomatic recurrence. However, potential lead-time and length-time biases prevent the determination of any benefit of regular surveillance. In addition, an optimal surveillance protocol has yet to be established because conventional pathology-based protocols cannot identify the heterogenetic tumor biology of urothelial carcinoma, such as rapid- or slow-growing form of the disease. Several studies suggest that conventional pathology-based surveillance resulted in reduced cost-effectiveness. Recurrence risk-score stratified surveillance protocol including clinical and pathological factors may improve cost-effectiveness. The establishment of optimal risk stratification and surveillance strategies are required to improve the efficacy of regular oncological surveillance. Well-planned prospective studies are necessary to address the prognostic benefit of regular oncological surveillance and shared decision making.

Risk-stratified surveillance protocol improves cost-effectiveness after radical nephroureterectomy in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Objectives

To develop a surveillance protocol with improved cost-effectiveness after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU), as the cost-effectiveness of oncological surveillance after RNU remains unclear.

Results

Of 426 patients, 109 (26%) and 113 (27%) experienced visceral and intravesical recurrences, respectively. The pathology-based protocol found significant differences in recurrence-free survival in the visceral recurrence but not in the intravesical recurrence. The medical costs per visceral recurrence detected were high, especially in normal-risk (≤ pT2N0, LVI-, SM-) patients. We developed a risk score associated with visceral recurrence using Cox regression analysis. The risk score-based protocol was significantly more cost-effective than the pathology-based protocol. Estimated cost differences reached $747,929 per recurrence detected, a suggested 55% reduction.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 426 patients with RNU for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) without distant metastasis at 4 hospitals. Patients with routine oncological follow-up were stratified into normal-, high- and very high-risk groups according to a pathology-based protocol utilizing pathological stage, lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and surgical margin (SM). Cost-effectiveness of the pathology-based protocol was evaluated, and a risk score-based protocol was developed to optimize cost-effectiveness. Risk scores were calculated by summing up risk factors independently associated with recurrence-free survival. Patients were stratified by low-, intermediate- and high-risk score. Estimated cost per recurrence detected by pathology-based and risk score-based protocols was compared.

Conclusions

A risk score-stratified surveillance protocol has the potential to reduce over investigation during follow-up, making surveillance more cost-effective.