RTOG 97-06: Initial report of a Phase I–II trial of selective bladder conservation using TURBT, twice-daily accelerated irradiation sensitized with cisplatin, and adjuvant MCV combination chemotherapy

Benefit of Whole-Pelvis Radiation for Patients With Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: An Inverse Probability Treatment Weighted Analysis

PURPOSE

The value of pelvic lymph node irradiation is debated for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) undergoing curative-intent radiation therapy (RT). We sought to compare the oncological outcomes between bladder-only (BO)-RT and whole-pelvis (WP)-RT using a large Canadian multicenter collaborative database.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study cohort consisted of 809 patients with MIBC (cT2-4aN0-2M0) who underwent curative RT at academic centers across Canada. Patients were divided into two groups on the basis of the RT volume: WP-RT versus BO-RT. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) and absolute standardized differences (ASDs) were used to balance covariates across treatment groups. Regression models were used to assess the effect of the RT volume on the rates of complete response (CR), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

After exclusion criteria, 599 patients were included, of whom 369 (61.6%) underwent WP-RT. Patients receiving WP-RT were younger (ASD, 0.41) and more likely to have an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-1 (ASD, 0.21), clinical node-positive disease (ASD, 0.40), and lymphovascular invasion (ASD, 0.25). In addition, WP-RT patients were more commonly treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (ASD, 0.29) and concurrent chemotherapy (ASD, 0.44). In the IPTW cohort, BO-RT and WP-RT groups were well balanced (all pretreatment parameters with an ASD <0.10). In multivariable analysis, WP-RT was not associated with CR rates post-RT (odds ratio, 1.14 [95 CI, 0.76 to 1.72]; P = .526) but was associated with both CSS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.66 [95% CI, 0.47 to 0.93]; P = .016) and OS (HR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.54 to 0.87]; P = .002), independent of other prognostic factors.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that WP radiation was associated with better survival compared with bladder radiation alone after adjusted analysis. Additional randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm our findings.

Novel bladder-sparing approaches in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer

The pursuit of surgeons and oncologists in fulfilling the inherent desire of patients to retain their urinary bladder despite having muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) has sparked years of research and multiple debates, given its aggressive nature and the high risk of fatal metastatic recurrence. Historically, several approaches to bladder-sparing treatment have been explored, ranging from radical transurethral resection to concurrent chemoradiation. A less well-established approach involves a risk-adapted approach with local therapy deferred based on the clinical response to transurethral resection followed by systemic therapy. Each approach is associated with potential risks, benefits, and trade-offs. In this review, we aim to understand, navigate, and suggest future perspectives on bladder-sparing approaches in patients with MIBC.

Organ preservation in muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The most common definitive treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is radical cystectomy. However, removing the bladder and surrounding organs poses risks of morbidity that can reduce quality of life, and raises the risk of death. Treatment strategies that preserve the organs can manage the local tumor and mitigate the risk of distant metastasis. Recent data have demonstrated promising outcomes in several bladder-preservation strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Bladder preservation with trimodality therapy (TMT), combining maximal transurethral resection of the bladder tumor, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy (RT), was often reserved for nonsurgical candidates for radical cystectomy. Recent meta-analyses show that outcomes of TMT and radical cystectomy are similar. More recent bladder-preservation approaches include combining targeted RT (MRI) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), ICIs and chemotherapy, and selecting patients based on genomic biomarkers and clinical response to systemic therapies. These are all promising strategies that may circumvent the need for radical cystectomy.

SUMMARY

MIBC is an aggressive disease with a high rate of systemic progression. Current management includes neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy and radical cystectomy with lymph node dissection. Novel alternative strategies, including TMT approaches, combinations with RT, chemotherapy, and/or ICIs, and genomic biomarkers, are in development to further advance bladder-preservation options for patients with MIBC.

Comparison of sequential versus concurrent chemoradiation regimens in non-metastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer

PURPOSE

The treatment approach for non-metastatic bladder cancer is guided by an invasion of the muscular layer of the bladder wall. Radical cystectomy is the recommended treatment for muscle-invasive disease. However, it has considerable morbidity and mortality and is not suited for many patients. Trimodality therapy consisting of chemoradiation after transurethral resection of bladder tumor offers a definitive approach with bladder-sparing potential. However, there is a lack of research defining the optimal combination of chemotherapy and radiation in this setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We extracted patient data from the National Cancer Database to compare survival outcomes and demographic factors in 2,227 non-metastatic bladder cancer patients who were treated with chemotherapy sequential to or concurrently with radiation. Sequential treatment was defined as chemotherapy beginning >14 days before radiation, and concurrent was defined as beginning within 14 days of the first radiation.

RESULTS

The sequential treatment group patients were younger (mean age, 74 vs. 78 years; p < 0.001) with more advanced disease. We found no difference in overall survival between patients who received chemotherapy sequential to radiation and those who received concurrent chemoradiation only (p = 0.533).

CONCLUSION

Our data are concordant with a previous prospective study, and support that chemotherapy prior to radiation does not decrease survival outcomes relative to patients receiving only concurrent chemoradiation. Given that the sequential group had an overall higher stage but no difference in survival, downstaging chemotherapy prior to radiation may be helpful in these patients. Further studies including a larger, multi-institutional clinical trial are indicated to support clinical decision-making.

Bladder only versus bladder plus pelvic lymph node chemoradiation for muscle-invasive bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Bladder-sparing chemoradiation therapy (CRT) is a definitive first-line treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The optimal radiotherapy target volume, either bladder-only (BO) or bladder plus pelvic lymph nodes (BPN), remains unclear.

METHODS

We identified 2,104 patients in the National Cancer Database with cT2-4N0M0 urothelial cell carcinoma of the bladder treated with CRT following maximal transurethral resection of bladder tumor from 2004 to 2016. The exposure of interest was BO vs. BPN treatment volume. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), compared between groups using Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional hazards. Sensitivity analysis tested an interaction term for clinical T stage (T2 vs. T3-4) and radiation modality (3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy vs. intensity modulated radiotherapy or proton therapy). Annual use of BO vs. BPN from 2004 to 2016 was compared using Cochran-Armitage test.

RESULTS

A total of 578 patients were treated with BO and 1,526 patients treated with BPN CRT. There was a significant increase in BPN use from 2004 to 2016 (66.9%-76.8%, P < 0.0001). With a median follow-up of 6.2 years, there was no survival difference between groups: 5- and 10-year OS 27.4% (95% CI 23.4%-31.4%) in the BO group vs. 31.9% (95% CI 29.3%-34.6%) in the BPN group, and 13.1% (95% CI 9.7%-17.1%) in the BO group vs. 13.2% (95% CI 10.6%-16.0%) in the BPN group, respectively (log-rank P = 0.10). On multivariable analysis, there was no significant association between BPN and OS (adjusted HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.81-1.02, P = 0.09). On sensitivity analysis, we found no differential effect by T stage or radiation modality.

CONCLUSION

Use of pelvic lymph node radiation has risen in the US but may not impact long-term survival outcomes for patients with node-negative muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Optimizing radiation treatment volumes for CRT for MIBC will be important to study under prospective trials, such as the SWOG/NRG 1806.

The Legacy of RTOG/NRG Protocols in Shaping Current Bladder Preservation Therapy in North America

For muscle-invasive bladder cancer, the historical, gold standard treatment was radical cystectomy. However, the notion of organ preservation using trimodality therapy (TMT, consisting of maximal transurethral resection of bladder tumor followed by chemoradiation) has been established as a viable treatment alternative to complete removal of the bladder. Despite the lack of direct head-to-head randomized comparisons of TMT to radical cystectomy, the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG)/NRG has spearheaded the use of radiation therapy as part of bladder preservation for years, with prospective data demonstrating similar long-term clinical outcomes to cystectomy series, particularly with contemporary treatment. We summarize these trials and discuss the evolution of bladder preservation throughout the decades, culminating in our current TMT protocols. We further discuss the future of organ-preservation therapy in MIBC, with continued improvement in radiation techniques, incorporation of novel therapies, and personalization of treatment to optimize benefit for bladder cancer patients.

Analysis of MRE11 and Mortality Among Adults With Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Managed With Trimodality Therapy

IMPORTANCE

Bladder-preserving trimodality therapy can be an effective alternative to radical cystectomy for treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), but biomarkers are needed to guide optimal patient selection. The DNA repair protein MRE11 is a candidate response biomarker that has not been validated in prospective cohorts using standardized measurement approaches.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate MRE11 expression as a prognostic biomarker in MIBC patients receiving trimodality therapy using automated quantitative image analysis.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This prognostic study analyzed patients with MIBC pooled from 6 prospective phase I/II, II, or III trials of trimodality therapy (Radiation Therapy Oncology Group [RTOG] 8802, 8903, 9506, 9706, 9906, and 0233) across 37 participating institutions in North America from 1988 to 2007. Eligible patients had nonmetastatic MIBC and were enrolled in 1 of the 6 trimodality therapy clinical trials. Analyses were completed August 2020.

EXPOSURES

Trimodality therapy with transurethral bladder tumor resection and cisplatin-based chemoradiation therapy.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

MRE11 expression and association with disease-specific (bladder cancer) mortality (DSM), defined as death from bladder cancer. Pretreatment tumor tissues were processed for immunofluorescence with anti-MRE11 antibody and analyzed using automated quantitative image analysis to calculate a normalized score for MRE11 based on nuclear-to-cytoplasmic (NC) signal ratio.

RESULTS

Of 465 patients from 6 trials, 168 patients had available tissue, of which 135 were analyzable for MRE11 expression (median age of 65 years [minimum-maximum, 34-90 years]; 111 [82.2%] men). Median (minimum-maximum) follow-up for alive patients was 5.0 (0.6-11.7) years. Median (Q1-Q3) MRE11 NC signal ratio was 2.41 (1.49-3.34). Patients with an MRE11 NC ratio above 1.49 (ie, above first quartile) had a significantly lower DSM (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.26-0.93; P = .03). The 4-year DSM was 41.0% (95% CI, 23.2%-58.0%) for patients with an MRE11 NC signal ratio of 1.49 or lower vs 21.0% (95% CI, 13.4%-29.8%) for a ratio above 1.49. MRE11 NC signal ratio was not significantly associated with overall survival (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.49-1.44).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Higher MRE11 NC signal ratios were associated with better DSM after trimodality therapy. Lower MRE11 NC signal ratios identified a poor prognosis subgroup that may benefit from intensification of therapy.

Role of radiotherapy in the management of bladder cancer: Recommendations of the French society for radiation oncology

We present the recommendations of the French society of oncological radiotherapy on the indications and techniques for external beam radiotherapy for bladder cancer.

Survival and oncologic outcomes of complete transurethral resection of bladder tumor prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer

OBJECTIVES

Prior studies have shown that pathologic complete response at radical cystectomy, a significant prognostic factor, can be attributed to both neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and high-quality transurethral resections (TURBT) prior to NAC. It remains unclear whether the visual completeness of TURBT prior to NAC plays an important role in subsequent outcomes. We sought to assess the association of completeness of TURBT prior to NAC with response and survival outcomes.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with clinically localized muscle-invasive bladder cancer at our institution who received NAC from 2000 to 2017. Complete TURBT was defined as resection of all visible tumor in entirety, resection to normal-appearing muscle, and/or repeat pre-NAC TURBT revealing cT0. Patients who were restaged as cT0 after NAC and refused cystectomy were placed on an active surveillance/delayed intervention (ASDI) protocol. The primary endpoints were overall and cancer-specific survival. The secondary endpoints were recurrence-free and muscle-invasive recurrence-free survival.

RESULTS

Of 93 patients, 62 (67%) underwent complete TURBT prior to chemotherapy. Compared to patients with incomplete TURBT, those with complete TURBT had lower rates of variant histology (13% vs. 32%) and hydronephrosis (15% vs. 39%). Also, 36% of patients with incomplete TURBT had ≥cT3 disease prior to NAC, compared to none in the complete TURBT cohort. Patients with complete TURBT were more likely to defer RC and pursue ASDI (61% vs. 32%). Those with complete TURBT had lower rates of pT2 or higher disease at cystectomy (48% vs. 75%), with a lower rate of N+ disease trending towards significance (17% vs. 37%). Patients with complete TURBT had higher 5-year overall (77% vs. 46%, P = 0.003) and cancer-specific (85% vs. 50%, P = 0.001) survival. On Cox regression analysis, complete TURBT was significantly associated with superior cancer-specific, recurrence-free, and muscle-invasive recurrence-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

A complete TURBT prior to NAC is associated with improved survival and oncologic outcomes in this cohort with muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The extent to which complete TURBT simply represents a proxy for less aggressive disease or is actually a beneficial therapeutic intervention which improves response to chemotherapy is difficult to define retrospectively.

Recommendations for planning and delivery of radical radiotherapy for localized urothelial carcinoma of the bladder

PURPOSE

Curative radio-chemotherapy is recognized as a standard treatment option for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Nevertheless, the technical aspects for MIBC radiotherapy are heterogeneous with a lack of practical recommendations.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In 2018, a workshop identified the need for two cooperative groups to develop consistent, evidence-based guidelines for irradiation technique in the delivery of curative radiotherapy. Two radiation oncologists performed a review of the literature addressing several topics relative to radical bladder radiotherapy: planning computed tomography acquisition, target volume delineation, radiation schedules (total dose and fractionation) and dose delivery (including radiotherapy techniques, image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) and adaptive treatment modalities). Searches for original and review articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases were conducted from January 1990 until March 2020. During a meeting conducted in October 2020, results on 32 topics were presented and discussed with a working group involving 15 radiation oncologists, 3 urologists and one medical oncologist. We applied the American Urological Association guideline development's method to define a consensus strategy.

RESULTS

A consensus was obtained for all 34 except 4 items. The group did not obtain an agreement on CT enhancement added value for planning, PTV margins definition for empty bladder and full bladder protocols, and for pelvic lymph-nodes irradiation. High quality evidence was shown in 6 items; 8 items were considered as low quality of evidence.

CONCLUSION

The current recommendations propose a homogenized modality of treatment both for routine clinical practice and for future clinical trials, following the best evidence to date, analyzed with a robust methodology. The XXX group formulates practical guidelines for the implementation of innovative techniques such as adaptive radiotherapy.

Radical Cystectomy vs. Multimodality Treatment in T2N0M0 Bladder Cancer: A Population-based, Age-matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

Controversy still exists regarding efficacy of multimodality treatment (MMT) vs. radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder (UCUB).

METHODS

Within the SEER database (2004-2016), we retrospectively identified patients with stage T2N0M0 UCUB. Competing risks regression (CRR) tested cancer-specific mortality (CSM) and adjusted for other-cause mortality after MMT vs. RC. Exact matching for age was applied. Subgroup analyses focused on differences in chemotherapy or lymph node dissection rates. In sensitivity analyses, we accounted for 40% understaging rate in patients who underwent MMT.

RESULTS

Of 9862 patients with T₂N₀M₀ UCUB, 2675 (27.1%) underwent MMT vs. 5751 (58.3%) RC vs. 1436 (14.6%) radiotherapy (RT) without chemotherapy. MMT rate increased (annually +3.0%, P < .01) and MMT patient age was significantly higher (median 77 years) than RC patient age (68 years). In exact age-matched analyses, 10-year CSM rates were 44.3% vs. 25.9% for MMT vs. RC (multivariate hazard ratio [HR] 0.48); 44.1% vs. 22.8% for MMT vs. RC with chemotherapy (HR 0.43); 40.5% vs. 31.1% for MMT vs. RC without lymph node dissection (HR 0.66), and 55.6% vs. 27.3% for RT without chemotherapy vs. RC (HR 0.37, all P < .001). Sensitivity analyses that addressed understaging of patients who underwent MMT resulted in virtually the same CSM rates.

CONCLUSION

In patents with T₂N₀M₀, MMT or even more so RT alone may be associated with higher CSM than RC, even in exact age-matched multivariate CRR analyses, which adjust for other-cause mortality. In consequence, patients with T2 UCUB should be informed of this possible CSM disadvantage outside of highly specialized centers.

Trimodal therapy in muscle invasive bladder cancer management

INTRODUCTION

Radical cystectomy (RC) is the current mainstay for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Concerns regarding morbidity, mortality and quality of life have favored the introduction of bladder sparing strategies. Trimodal therapy, combining transurethral resection, chemotherapy and radiotherapy is the current standard of care for bladder preservation strategies in selected patients with MIBC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A comprehensive search of the Medline and Embase databases was performed. A total of 19 studies were included in a systematic review of bladder sparing strategies in MIBC management was carried out following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA).

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The overall median complete response rate after trimodal therapy (TMT) was 77% (55-93). Salvage cystectomy rate with TMT was 17% on average (8-30). For TMT, the 5-year cancer-specific survival and overall survival rates range from 42-82% and 32-74%, respectively. Currently data supporting neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy in bladder sparing approaches are emerging, but robust definitive conclusions are still lacking. Gastrointestinal toxicity rates are low around 4% (0.5-16), whereas genitourinary toxicity rates reached 8% (1-24). Quality of life outcomes are still underreported.

CONCLUSIONS

Published data and clinical experience strongly support trimodal therapy as an acceptable bladder sparing strategy in terms of oncological outcomes and quality of life in selected patients with MIBC. A strong need exists for specialized centers, to increase awareness among urologists, to discuss these options with patients and to stress the increased participation of patients and their families in treatment path decision-making.

Bladder-sparing protocols in the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Bladder-sparing protocols (BSP) have been gaining widespread popularity as an attractive alternative to radical cystectomy (RC) for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Unimodal therapies are inferior to multimodal regimens. The most promising regimen is trimodal therapy (TMT), which is a combination of maximal transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. In appropriately selected patients (low volume unifocal T2 disease, complete TURBT, no hydronephrosis and no carcinoma-in-situ), comparable oncological outcomes to RC have been reported in large retrospective studies, with a potential improvement in overall quality of life (QOL). TMT also offers the possibility for definitive therapy for patients who are not surgically fit to undergo RC. Routine biopsy of previous tumor resection is recommended to assess response. Prompt salvage RC is required in non-responders and for recurrent muscle-invasive disease, while non-muscle-invasive recurrence can be managed conservatively with TURBT +/- intravesical BCG. Long-term follow-up consisting of routine cystoscopy, urine cytology, and cross-section imaging is required. Further studies are warranted to better define the role of neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy in the setting of TMT. Finally, future research on predictive markers of response to TMT and on the integration of immunotherapy in bladder sparing protocols is ongoing and is highly promising.

Gemcitabine based trimodality treatment in patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer: May neutrophil lymphocyte and platelet lymphocyte ratios predict outcomes?

PURPOSE

Cisplatin based chemoradiation has been commonly used as a definitive treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The aim of the current study is to evaluate oncologic results and toxicity profile of bladder-sparing treatment with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and gemcitabine chemotherapy (ChT) in patients with MIBC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between April 2005 and November 2018 44 patients with nonmetastatic and N0 MIBC were treated with transurethral resection of bladder (TURB), EBRT and concurrent gemcitabine. All patients were staged using thorax-abdomen-pelvic CT and pelvic MRI. EBRT was delivered using 3D conformal technique or intensity modulated radiotherapy. Patients received 50 Gy in 25 to 28 fractions to full bladder followed by a boost dose of 10 Gy in 5 fractions to empty bladder with weekly concurrent gemcitabine of 50 mg/m². All patients were evaluated for age, gender, smoking status, neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR) at diagnosis, presence of hydroureteronephrosis (HUN), preoperative tumor size, tumor multifocality, presence of CIS, clinical tumor stage. Acute/late genitourinary (GUS) and gastrointestinal (GIS) toxicity, recurrence status, cancer specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v21.0. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were calculated to describe CSS and OS. The effect of different parameters on survival was investigated using the log rank test.

RESULTS

Median age of the patients was 72 years (interquartile [IQR]; 66-80). The median tumor size was 30 mm (IQR, 15-59 mm). Thirty-two (77%) patients had T2, 6 (14%) patients had T3, and 4 (9%) patients had T4a disease. Median NLR was 2.6 (IQR, 1.7-3.8) and median PLR was 126.47 (IQR, 77.4-184.8). Median follow-up time was 21 months (range, 6-153 months). At the first TURB performed 6 weeks after CRT, complete response, partial response, stable disease, and progression was detected in 37 (84%), 3 (7%), 1 (2%), and 3 (7%) patients, respectively. One- and 2-year OS, CSS, LRFS, and DMFS rates were 86% and 64%; 88% and 66%; 65% and 44%; 68% and 48%, respectively. In univariate analysis; prognostic factors were age and presence of HUN for OS and DMFS; age, HUN, presence of CIS, NLR, and PLR for DSS; HUN, NLR, and PLR for LRFS, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the independent predictor was the presence of HUN for OS, LRFS, and DMFS; NLR for DSS; PLR for LRFS and age for DMSF. For a subgroup of 17 patients with complete TURB and no CIS and HUN symptoms, 2-year OS, DSS, LRFS, and DMFS rates were 88%, 88%, 72%, and 79%, respectively. The treatment was well-tolerated and all patients completed the planned EBRT and ChT. No acute or late ≥ grade 3 toxicity was observed. Grade II acute GIS toxicity was detected in 3 (7%) patients and grade II acute GUS toxicity was detected in 9 (21%) patients, respectively. Grade II late GUS toxicity was observed in 2 (5%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Gemcitabine based trimodality treatment is well-tolerated with similar oncologic outcomes reported in the literature. Older age, presence of CIS and high NLR and PLR values seem to deteriorate DSS.

Bladder preservation therapy for muscle invasive bladder cancer: the past, present and future

Radical cystectomy is the gold standard treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer, but some patients have medically inoperable disease or refuse cystectomy to preserve their bladder function. Bladder preservation therapy with transurethral resection of the bladder tumor and concurrent chemoradiotherapy, known as trimodal treatment, is regarded to be a curative-intent alternative to radical cystectomy for patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer during the past decade. After the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, a world-changing breakthrough occurred in the field of metastatic urothelial carcinoma and many clinical trials have been conducted against non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Interestingly, preclinical and clinical studies against other malignancies have shown that immune checkpoint inhibitors interact with the radiation-induced immune reaction. As half of the patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer are elderly, and some have renal dysfunction, not only as comorbidity but also because of hydronephrosis caused by their tumors, immune checkpoint inhibitors are expected to become part of a new therapeutic approach for combination treatment with radiotherapy. Accordingly, clinical trials testing immune checkpoint inhibitors have been initiated to preserve bladder for muscle invasive bladder cancer patients using radiation and immune checkpoint inhibitors with/without chemotherapy. The objective of this review is to summarize the evidence of trimodal therapy for muscle invasive bladder cancer during the past decade and to discuss the future directions of bladder preservation therapy in immuno-oncology era.

Executive Summary of the American Radium Society Appropriate Use Criteria for Radiation Treatment of Node-Negative Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

PURPOSE

Definitive radiation therapy (RT), with or without concurrent chemotherapy, is an alternative to radical cystectomy for patients with localized, muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who are either not surgical candidates or prefer organ preservation. We aim to synthesize an evidence-based guideline regarding the appropriate use of RT.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We performed a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses literature review using the PubMed and Embase databases. Based on the literature review, critical management topics were identified and reformulated into consensus questions. An expert panel was assembled to address key areas of both consensus and controversy using the modified Delphi framework.

RESULTS

A total of 761 articles were screened, of which 61 were published between 1975 and 2019 and included for full review. There were 7 well-designed studies, 20 good quality studies, 28 quality studies with design limitations, and 6 references not suited as primary evidence. Adjuvant radiation therapy after cystectomy was not included owing to lack of high-quality data or clinical use. An expert panel consisting of 14 radiation oncologists, 1 medical oncologist, and 1 urologist was assembled. We identified 4 clinical variants of MIBC: surgically fit patients who wish to pursue organ preservation, patients surgically unfit for cystectomy, patients medically unfit for cisplatin-based chemotherapy, and borderline cystectomy candidates based on age with unilateral hydronephrosis and normal renal function. We identified key areas of controversy, including use of definitive radiation therapy for patients with negative prognostic factors, appropriate radiation therapy dose, fractionation, fields and technique when used, and chemotherapy sequencing and choice of agent.

CONCLUSIONS

There is limited level-one evidence to guide appropriate treatment of MIBC. Studies vary significantly with regards to patient selection, chemotherapy use, and radiation therapy technique. A consensus guideline on the appropriateness of RT for MIBC may aid practicing oncologists in bridging the gap between data and clinical practice.

Palliative Radiation Therapy for Macroscopic Hematuria Caused by Urothelial Cancer

Background: To assess the efficacy and toxicity profiles of palliative radiation therapy (RT) for macroscopic hematuria (MH) caused by urothelial cancer.

Methods: A total of 25 urothelial cancer patients with MH who underwent palliative RT between 2008 and 2018 were analyzed in this retrospective study. The hematuria-free survival (HFS) time was defined as the period from complete resolution of MH to the recurrence of MH, death, or the last follow-up examination. Adverse events were classified according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0.

Results: By the end of the median follow-up duration of 90 days (11–886 days), complete resolution of MH had been achieved in 22 patients (88%), and the median interval between the start of RT and resolution of MH was 9 days (2–179 days). Of the 22 patients in whom the symptom resolved, 9 (41%) developed recurrent MH, and the median time to relapse of MH was 129 days (30–692 days). The median RT dose was 30 Gy (20–40 Gy). Nine (36%) patients received a blood transfusion before the RT. The three-month HFS rate was 52.1%. There was a significant difference in the three-month HFS rate between patients with and without a history of pretreatment blood transfusion (HFS rate: 34.6% vs. 61.5%, p = 0.03). Grade 2 urinary tract pain and grade 3 diarrhea were seen in one patient each.

Conclusion: Palliative RT appeared to be effective with limited toxicities for urothelial cancer patients with MH.

Current Management of Localized Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Consensus Guideline from the Genitourinary Medical Oncologists of Canada

BACKGROUND: Despite recent advances in the management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), treatment outcomes remain suboptimal, and variability exists across current practice patterns. OBJECTIVE: To promote standardization of care for MIBC in Canada by developing a consensus guidelines using a multidisciplinary, evidence-based, patient-centered approach who specialize in bladder cancer. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Medline, and Embase was performed; and most recent guidelines from national and international organizations were reviewed. Recommendations were made based on best available evidence, and strength of recommendations were graded based on quality of the evidence. RESULTS: Overall, 17 recommendations were made covering a broad range of topics including pathology review, staging investigations, systemic therapy, local definitive therapy and surveillance. Of these, 10 (59% ) were level 1 or 2, 7 (41% ) were level 3 or 4 recommendations. There were 2 recommendations which did not reach full consensus, and were based on majority opinion. This guideline also provides guidance for the management of cisplatin-ineligible patients, variant histologies, and bladder-sparing trimodality therapy. Potential biomarkers, ongoing clinical trials, and future directions are highlighted. CONCLUSIONS: This guideline embodies the collaborative expertise from all disciplines involved, and provides guidance to further optimize and standardize the management of MIBC.

Urothelial carcinoma in situ response to cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy, or lack thereof: Impact on patient selection for organ preservation in muscle-invasive disease?

INTRODUCTION

Neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy (NACT) followed by radical cystectomy improves urothelial bladder cancer survival [1]. Complete pathological response on cystectomy pathology (pT0N0) is associated with the best survival outcomes [2]. Rates of complete response have increased with improved adoption of NACT calling into question the need for radical cystectomy or perhaps use of organ preservation protocols. In patients with papillary bladder tumors, carcinoma in situ (CIS) has been shown to influence progression and develop into invasive urothelial carcinoma [3]. Furthermore, in patients with invasive urothelial carcinoma, concurrent CIS has been reported in roughly 45% to 65% of cases [4]. Thus, we sought to determine the response rate of CIS to NACT to determine if the presence of CIS should factor into excluding patients from organ preservation.

METHODS

A review of our prospectively maintained bladder cancer database was performed among patients undergoing preoperative cisplatin-based chemotherapy followed by cystectomy between 2007 and 2017. Presence of CIS before and after radical cystectomy was assessed. Random bladder biopsies or transurethral resection (TUR) with enhanced imaging for CIS (Cysview) were not routinely utilized in the preoperative setting.

RESULTS

One-hundred eighty-three patients were identified that underwent preoperative cisplatin chemotherapy. A total of 96 (52.4%) unique patients had documented CIS in the entire cohort. Forty-eight (50%) patients were noted to have CIS on TUR. Of these 48 patients, 26 (54.1%) were noted to have residual CIS on final pathology. An additional 48 patients were found to have CIS on final pathology that was not diagnosed on TUR, making a total of 74 (77.1%) patients with CIS refractory to NACT on cystectomy pathology.

CONCLUSIONS

CIS seems to respond poorly to cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy. If organ preservation protocols are considered, a thorough assessment for CIS with enhanced photodynamic detection cystoscopy or random bladder biopsies should be considered. Residual cisplatin-refractory disease, even if noninvasive CIS, may lead to poor outcomes. Future molecular classifiers may assist in disease signatures to help guide treatment protocols.

Trimodality Therapy for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Recent Advances and Unanswered Questions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Bladder-sparing trimodality therapy (TMT) has become an accepted alternative to cystectomy for selected muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients unfit for cystectomy or opting for bladder preservation. This review will summarize recent advances in TMT for MIBC.

RECENT FINDINGS

A growing body of literature has emerged which supports the use of TMT. However, its delivery is yet to be standardized. The role of chemotherapy and predictive biomarkers remain to be elucidated. Novel bladder-sparing approaches, drug combinations including immunotherapy and targeted therapies are under investigation in clinical trials, with the goal of ultimately enhancing survival and quality of life outcomes. Recent advances in TMT have made bladder preservation possible for MIBC patients seeking an alternative local therapy to cystectomy. With careful patient selection, TMT offers comparable survival outcomes to cystectomy, and improved quality of life as patients are able to successfully retain their bladder.

The Challenge of Managing Bladder Cancer and Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: A Review with Treatment Recommendations from the Spanish Oncology Genitourinary Group (SOGUG)

Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the ninth most common in women in the Western world. The management of bladder carcinoma requires a multidisciplinary approach. Optimal treatment depends on several factors, including histology, stage, patient status, and possible comorbidities. Here we review recent findings on the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma, advanced urothelial carcinoma, upper tract urothelial carcinoma, non-urothelial carcinoma, and urologic complications arising from the disease or treatment. In addition, we present the recommendations of the Spanish Oncology Genitourinary Group for the treatment of these diseases, based on a focused analysis of clinical management and the potential of current research, including recent findings on the potential benefit of immunotherapy. In recent years, whole-genome approaches have provided new predictive biomarkers and promising molecular targets that could lead to precision medicine in bladder cancer. Moreover, the involvement of other specialists in addition to urologists will ensure not only appropriate therapeutic decisions but also adequate follow-up for response evaluation and management of complications. It is crucial, however, to apply recent molecular findings and implement clinical guidelines as soon as possible in order to maximize therapeutic gains and improve patient prognosis.

Comparison of Outcomes in Patients With Muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer Treated With Radical Cystectomy Versus Bladder Preservation

PURPOSE

Radical cystectomy currently remains the standard of care for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. However, surgery can be associated with considerable morbidity and mortality, including the removal of the bladder. An alternative strategy is to preserve the bladder through concurrent chemoradiation following a maximal transurethral resection of the tumor. National protocols using a bladder-preservation approach have demonstrated disease-specific outcomes comparable to radical cystectomy in selected patients, but these results have not been replicated in previously reported population-based series. Here, we describe an outcomes analysis of patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer treated with either radical surgery or bladder-preserving chemoradiation (BPCRT) for those patients meeting BPCRT criterion using the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using the NCDB, patients with American Joint Commission on Cancer clinical T2-3, N0, M0 urothelial carcinoma diagnosed between 2004 and 2013 were included for analysis. Only patients treated with definitive intent with either radical cystectomy or concurrent chemotherapy and radiation after a maximal transurethral tumor resection were included. Propensity-score matching was used.

RESULTS

Among 8454 eligible patients, 7276 (86%) underwent radical cystectomy, and 1178 (14%) underwent BPCRT. Patients undergoing BPCRT were significantly older (median age, 77 vs. 68 y; P<0.001) and had higher Charlson-Deyo comorbidity scores (P=0.002). Using propensity-matched analysis, 1002 patients remained in each cohort, and there was no significant difference in survival found between the 2 cohorts (median overall survival, 2.7 vs. 3.0 y [P=0.20]; 4-year overall survival, 39.1% and 42.6% [P=0.15], for BPCRT and surgery, respectively). In addition, the hazard ratio (HR) of surgery versus BPCRT decreased over time, with an initial HR of 1.27 favoring BPCRT which decreased by a factor of 0.85 per year.

CONCLUSIONS

From 2004 to 2013, ∼14% of patients from the NCDB who potentially met bladder-preservation criteria underwent the procedure. Our propensity-matched analysis is the only report of its kind to demonstrate similar survival outcomes with bladder preservation when patients are properly selected. This study is also the first to demonstrate a dynamic HR between radical surgery and BPCRT over time.

Organ-sparing procedures in GU cancer: part 3-organ-sparing procedures in urothelial cancer of upper tract, bladder and urethra

PURPOSE

The impact of radical surgery for urothelial carcinoma is significant on patient's quality of life. Organ-sparing surgery (OSS) can provide comparable oncological outcomes and with improved quality of life. In this review, we summarize the indications, techniques and outcomes of OSS for these tumors.

METHODS

PubMed^® was searched for relevant articles. Keywords used were: for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC): endoscopic, ureteroscopic/percutaneous management, laser ablation; for urothelial bladder cancer: bladder preservation, trimodal therapy, muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC); for urethral cancer: urethra/penile-sparing, urethral carcinoma.

RESULTS

Kidney-sparing surgery is an option in patients with low-risk UTUC with better renal function preservation and comparable oncological control to radical nephroureterectomy. In select patients with MIBC, trimodal therapy has better quality of life and comparable oncological control to radical cystectomy. In distal male urethral cancer, penile conserving surgery is feasible and offers acceptable survival outcomes. In female urethral cancer, organ preservation can be achieved, in addition to OSS, through radiation.

CONCLUSIONS

In the appropriately selected patient, OSS in upper tract, bladder and urethral carcinoma has comparable oncological outcomes to radical surgery and with the additional benefit of improved quality of life.

Trimodality therapy for bladder cancer: modern management and future directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review examines both trimodality therapy (TMT) in the definitive management of bladder cancer as well as the use of adjuvant radiotherapy for bladder cancer with a specific focus on publications from the last 2 years.

RECENT FINDINGS

TMT is an effective management strategy for muscle invasive bladder cancer with outcomes similar to radical cystectomy. Effectiveness of this strategy exists in variant histologies and can be personalized with use of biomarkers. There is a role for adjuvant radiotherapy in locally advanced bladder cancer, especially in the age of improved imaging and modern radiotherapy techniques.

SUMMARY

This review should provide the reader data necessary to support use of TMT and adjuvant radiation therapy in their clinic.

A multi-institutional study of bladder-preserving therapy for stage II-IV bladder cancer: A Korean Radiation Oncology Group Study (KROG 14-16)

Background

Although radical cystectomy is a standard treatment in muscle-invasive bladder cancer, bladder preservation therapy including transurethral resection of bladder tumor, radiotherapy, and concurrent chemotherapy has been widely adopted, recently. This retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate the survival rates and prognostic factors related to treatment outcomes following bladder-preserving therapy including radiotherapy (RT) in bladder cancer with a curative intent.

Materials and methods

We conducted a multi-institutional retrospective study of 152 patients with stage II-IV bladder cancer treated with curative RT between 2000 and 2010. There were 72 patients in stage II, 49 in stage III, and 31 in stage IV. Ninety-seven patients were treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy and fifty-five with RT alone. Radiation was delivered to the pelvis (median 63 Gy), mainly with cisplatin. The median follow-up time was 35.5 months.

Results

Sixty-nine patients (45.4%) showed a complete response to RT. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 45.8%, the 5-year cause-specific survival (CSS) rate was 48.9%, and the 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate was 20.8%. Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in the following factors according to the survival rates: patient age, initial hemoglobin level, clinical T stage, clinical N stage, clinical stage group, tumor response to RT, hydronephrosis, and concurrent chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis also revealed a significant difference in patient age (p = 0.003 in OS, p<0.017 in CSS) and tumor response to RT (p = 0.002 in OS, p<0.001 in CSS). Concurrent chemotherapy was significantly different in the DFS rates (p = 0.046).

Conclusions

The survival rates reported herein are comparable to those from other studies, and tumor response and concurrent chemoradiotherapy were significant prognostic factors for better survival rates. Further randomized studies are needed to elucidate the impact of RT in bladder cancer.

Bladder Preservation Therapy: Review of Literature and Future Directions of Trimodal Therapy

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

This review targets the latest literature on bladder preservation therapy with emphasis on trimodal therapy (TMT), highlighting its role in the management of muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and outlining future directions in bladder preservation research.

RECENT FINDINGS

TMT is the most promising bladder preservation treatment modality. Comparable results to contemporary radical cystectomy series are seen in properly selected patients. A multidisciplinary team approach is critical in the management of these patients. Future research is directed at the integration of immunotherapy into the treatment protocol. TMT, involving maximal transurethral resection followed by chemoradiation, is an attractive alternative to radical cystectomy with urinary diversion in carefully selected patients with muscle invasive disease. In the absence of randomized trial (RCT), comparison between TMT and cystectomy, based on retrospective data from large centers, suggests comparable oncological outcomes, with a favorable impact on quality of life.

Increased utilization of external beam radiotherapy relative to cystectomy for localized, muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a SEER analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess recent utilization patterns of radiotherapy (RT) relative to cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and evaluate survival trends over time in patients receiving RT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The surveillance, epidemiology, and end results program (SEER) was used to identify patients diagnosed between 1992 and 2013 with localized MIBC. Patients with a prior history of non-bladder malignancy, who received no treatment, or did not have available treatment information, were excluded. Treatment utilization patterns were assessed using Cochran-Armitage tests for trend, and patient characteristics were compared using chi-square tests. Overall survival (OS) and cause-specific survival (CSS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. All-cause (ACM) and cause-specific mortality (CSM) were evaluated with multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

Of 16175 patients analyzed, 11917 (74%) underwent cystectomy, and 4258 (26%) were treated with RT. Patients who received RT were older (median age 79 vs. 68, P < 0.01). Over time, the proportion of patients receiving RT relative to cystectomy increased (24% 1992–2002 vs. 28% 2003–2013, P < 0.01), despite median patient age throughout the study period remaining unchanged (71 for each 1992–2002 and 2003–2013, P = 0.41). For RT, compared with patients diagnosed earlier, those diagnosed from 2010–2013 showed improved OS (64% vs. 60% at 1 year, P < 0.01; 38% vs. 29% at 3 years, P < 0.01) and CSS (71% vs. 67% at 1 year, P = 0.01; 51% vs. 40% at 3 years, P < 0.01). On multivariable analysis, diagnosis from 2010–2013 was associated with a lower estimated risk of ACM (hazard ratio 0.77; 95% confidence interval 0.66–0.89, P < 0.001) and CSM (hazard ratio 0.81; 95% confidence interval 0.67–0.97, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Utilization of RT for localized MIBC increased relative to cystectomy from 1992 to 2013, despite the median age of treated patients remaining unchanged. More recent survival outcomes for patients receiving RT were improved, supporting continued use of bladder preservation strategies utilizing RT.

Bladder Preserving Trimodality Therapy for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Here, we will review and summarize the current status and emerging data supporting the use of trimodality therapy as an alternative to cystectomy for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are no randomized-controlled data comparing radical cystectomy with bladder preserving trimodality therapy available for comparison. However, observational data suggests acceptable bladder preservation and functional outcomes in patients receiving bladder preserving trimodality therapy as well as similar oncologic outcomes in select patients compared to radical cystectomy. Future trials are focusing on new techniques and novel therapeutics in patients with bladder cancer. Bladder preserving trimodality therapy results in satisfactory quality of life and comparable disease outcomes for select patients with muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder compared to cystectomy.

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer organ-preserving therapy: systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To determine the effectiveness and harms of bladder-preserving trimodal therapy (TMT) as a first-line treatment versus radical cystectomy (RC) plus radical pelvic lymphadenectomy in the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer in terms of overall survival.

METHODS

We included parallel clinical trials and prospective and retrospective cohort studies that included patients older than 18 years old, diagnosed with muscle-invasive bladder cancer, who underwent TMT compared with RC. The planned comparison was TMT versus RC plus pelvic lymphadenectomy as first-line treatment. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS) and secondary outcomes were salvage cystectomy and cancer-specific survival and progression-free survival. A search strategy was designed for MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Embase, and LILACS. We saturated information with conference abstracts, in progress clinical trials, literature published in non-indexed journals, and other sources of gray literature. Standardized tools assessed the risk of bias independently. We performed the statistical analysis in R v3.4.1 and effect sizes were reported in terms of hazard ratios (HR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Accordingly, we used a random effect model due to the statistical heterogeneity found in included studies.

RESULTS

We found 2682 records with the search strategies and, finally, 11 studies were included in the quantitative analysis. The summary HR for OS was 1.06 95%CI (0.85-1.31) I² = 77%, showing no statistical difference. Regarding cancer-specific survival, the summary HR was 1.23 95%CI (1.04-1.46) I² = 14%. On the other side, for the progression-free survival, the summary HR was 1.11 95%CI (0.63-1.95) I² = 78%. Only one study described HR for adverse events (1.37 95%CI 1.16-1.59).

CONCLUSION

We found no differences in overall survival and progression-free survival between these two interventions. Nonetheless, we found that cancer-specific survival favored patients who received radical cystectomy.

[Radiochemotherapy for invasive bladder cancer : An update]

BACKGROUND

The standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer is radical cystectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy. Primary organ-preservation by means of multimodal therapy, however, can be a viable alternative to radical surgery.

OBJECTIVES

The concept and results of multimodal therapy, consisting of initial transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TUR-B), followed by simultaneous radiochemotherapy (RCT), are presented.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Evaluation of retrospective cohorts and prospective therapy optimization studies on organ-preservation treatment regimens. Comparative meta-analyses comparing cystectomy with multimodal treatment are presented.

RESULTS

Complete TUR-B, including bladder mapping and tumor biopsy, should precede simultaneous RCT. Radiosensitization should be cisplatin-based or consist of a combination of 5‑fluorouracil and mitomycin C. Complete response rates after TUR-B plus RCT are generated in 60-90% of patients along with 5‑year survival rates of 40-75% and preservation of the bladder in approximately 80% of surviving patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Multimodal therapy by means of TUR-B followed by simultaneous RCT is a viable alternative to radical cystectomy for patients with muscle-invasive urinary bladder carcinoma. Patients with early tumors (cT2/3N0) are particularly suitable in whom initial TUR-B leads to complete tumor resection (R0).

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Efficacy of Chemotherapy with Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors as Definitive Therapy for Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

Background:

Bladder-sparing treatment of muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) with systemic chemotherapy plus transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) is increasingly seen in the literature –both in case series and subanalyses of patients who opt out of or are unfit for radical cystectomy (RC). Survival outcomes among these patients are often impressive, but these are typically small retrospective studies from single institutions and therefore of limited clinical value.

Objectives:

Our aim is to summarize the literature regarding definitive treatment of MIBC with systemic chemotherapy plus TURBT and provide a meta-analysis of survival outcomes for patients who received this treatment.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed consistent with the Prisma statement to identify publications reporting the outcomes of patients treated with TURBT and systemic chemotherapy as definitive treatment for locally confined MIBC. Identified studies were screened in a two-stage process: first by title and abstract; then by full-text reading. 18 publications (518 patients) were included in the qualitative systematic review and 10 publications (266 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. The primary objective was overall survival (OS).

Results:

Overall survival ranged from 20% to 87.5% across studies at median follow-up ranging 4 to 120 months. 5-year survival rate for all patients included in the meta-analysis was estimated to be 72% [95% CI: 64%, 82%].

Conclusions:

Definitive treatment with systemic chemotherapy plus TURBT can lead to favorable survival outcomes in select patients. Further study to improve patient selection for this method of treatment is needed.

Phase I Clinical Trial of Everolimus Combined with Trimodality Therapy in Patients with Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

Background: Local control following trimodality therapy (TMT) for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) requires further optimization.

Objective: Evaluating the biologic endpoint, feasibility, and toxicity of integrating everolimus to TMT in patients with MIBC.

Methods: This was a phase I trial in patients with MIBC who were not surgical candidates or who refused cystectomy. Following maximal transurethral tumor resection, patients were treated by radiotherapy (50 Gy/20 fractions), gemcitabine (100 mg/m2/weekly) and escalating doses of everolimus (2.5–5.0 mg/day). Everolimus was given daily for one month prior to radiation, during treatment, and one month post-radiation. Toxicity assessment followed the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Acute Radiation Morbidity Scoring Criteria. Biologic endpoint with downregulation of phospho-S6 (pS6) was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Local response was evaluated with imaging and bladder biopsy post-therapy.

Results: 10 patients were recruited; 8 males, 2 females. Median age was 78 years (range: 63–85). Four patients entered everolimus 2.5 mg cohort. Six other patients entered everolimus 5.0 mg cohort. Toxicities were encountered in 2 patients (Grade I), 6 patients (Grade II), 9 patients (Grade III) and 1 patient (Grade IV), with some experiencing more than one toxicity. Most Grade III and IV toxicities were encountered from everolimus alone prior to combination testing. Trial was terminated early due to toxicity. Interestingly, 6/10 patients (60%) achieved a complete response with negative post-treatment biopsies. Significant decrease of pS6 was demonstrated post-therapy (p = 0.03).

Conclusions: Although combining everolimus with TMT achieved a biological endpoint and complete response in a significant number of patients with MIBC and negative prognostic factors, it was associated with unacceptable increased toxicity.

Where are we with bladder preservation for muscle-invasive bladder cancer in 2017?

INTRODUCTION

In 2017, neoadjuvant, cisplatin-based chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy (RC) is considered the gold standard therapy for muscle-invasive bladder based on randomized controlled trials. Across all tumor stages, this approach has been associated with the highest rates of disease-specific survival. However, RC is one of the most challenging procedures performed by urologic surgeons and carries with it significant risks of complications, hospital readmission, and even a small risk of mortality, in addition to lifestyle changes that can have long-term effects on well-being. For these reasons, bladder-sparing approaches are utilized in some highly selected patients. We reviewed the most recent evidence for bladder-sparing modalities for muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer and summarize those findings in this review article.

METHODS

We performed a PubMed literature review utilizing the key words "bladder preservation," "trimodal therapy," "muscle-invasive bladder cancer," and "partial cystectomy" written in English, dating back to 1990. We excluded case reports.

RESULTS

Our search yielded more than 2000 articles which we screened. Some articles were then rejected due to inappropriate topic. In addition, we reviewed the most recent American Urological Association, National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), and European guidelines on muscle-invasive bladder cancer. We identified fifty relevant articles which are summarized in this text. In some rare instances, recommendations are based on expert opinion.

CONCLUSIONS

Bladder preservation is often considered for quality of life considerations or in the setting of multiple medical comorbidities, and this remains oncologically appropriate even in 2016 in highly selected patients with muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder.

Bladder cancer cell viability inhibition and apoptosis induction by baicalein through targeting the expression of anti-apoptotic genes

The study was aimed to investigate the effect of baicalein, a flavonoid molecule isolated from the plant Oroxylum indicum on bladder cancer cell viability. The results revealed that baicalein treatment of T24 and 253J bladder cancer cells targeted the expression of mRNA and proteins corresponding to the anti-apoptotic genes. RT-PCR assay showed that anti-apoptotic genes were markedly over-expressed in the bladder cancer cells. Exposure of the bladder cancer cells to baicalein at 5 mg/mL doses for 72 h led to reduction in the expression of mRNA levels of antiapoptotic genes. In T24 cells, the levels of BCL2, Bcl-xL, XIAP and surviving was reduced by 65, 69, 58 and 72%, respectively. In T24 and 253J cells exposure to baicalein for 72 h resulted respectively in 39 and 46% reduction in cell viability. Baicalein treatment also induced apoptosis in the bladder cancer cells. In T24 and 253J cells baicalein treatment at 5 mg/mL for 72 h induced apoptosis in 79 and 86% cells respectively. Thus, baicalein mediated reduction in antiapoptotic gene expression inhibits viability and induces apoptosis in bladder cancer cells. Therefore, baicalein is of therapeutic importance for the development of bladder cancer treatment strategy.

Long-term Outcomes After Bladder-preserving Tri-modality Therapy for Patients with Muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer: An Updated Analysis of the Massachusetts General Hospital Experience

BACKGROUND

Tri-modality therapy (TMT) is a recognized treatment strategy for selected patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

OBJECTIVE

Report long-term outcomes of patients with MIBC treated by TMT.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Four hundred and seventy-five patients with cT2-T4a MIBC were enrolled on protocols or treated as per protocol at the Massachusetts General Hospital between 1986 and 2013.

INTERVENTION

Patients underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor followed by concurrent radiation and chemotherapy. Patients with less than a complete response (CR) to chemoradiation or with an invasive recurrence were recommended to undergo salvage radical cystectomy.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Median follow-up for surviving patients was 7.21 yr. Five- and 10-yr DSS rates were 66% and 59%, respectively. Five- and 10-yr OS rates were 57% and 39%, respectively. The risk of salvage cystectomy at 5 yr was 29%. In multivariate analyses, T2 disease (OS hazard ratio [HR]: 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.44-0.75, DSS HR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.36-0.73), CR to chemoradiation (OS HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.46-0.81, DSS HR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.34-0.71), and presence of tumor-associated carcinoma in situ (OS HR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.17-2.08, DSS HR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.03-2.17) were significant predictors for OS and DSS. When evaluating our cohort over treatment eras, rates of CR improved from 66% to 88% and 5-yr DSS improved from 60% to 84% during the eras of 1986-1995 to 2005-2013, while the 5-yr risk of salvage radical cystectomy rate decreased from 42% to 16%.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate high rates of CR and bladder preservation in patients receiving TMT, and confirm DSS rates similar to modern cystectomy series. Contemporary results are particularly encouraging, and therefore TMT should be discussed and offered as a treatment option for selected patients.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Tri-modality therapy is an alternative to radical cystectomy for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and is associated with comparable long-term survival and high rates of bladder preservation.

A role of multimodality bladder-preserving therapy in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer plus hydronephrosis with or without pelvic nodal involvement

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

To retrospectively evaluate the failure patterns of multimodality bladder-preserving therapy in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

METHODS

Patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer underwent maximal transurethral resection of bladder tumor and induction chemotherapy, followed by concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Radiotherapy was given with 45 Gy to the pelvis, 50.4 Gy to the bladder, and 64.8 Gy to the tumor bed. Three protocols of trimodality treatment were used: Protocol A, three cycles of cisplatin and fluorouracil (CF), followed by CCRT with 6 weekly cisplatin; Protocol B, three cycles of weekly paclitaxel plus CF, followed by CCRT with 6 weekly paclitaxel and cisplatin; Protocol C, three cycles of gemcitabine and cisplatin, followed by CCRT with 6 weekly cisplatin. Interval cystoscopy confirmed complete response (CR) after induction chemotherapy and 40-50 Gy of radiotherapy. Patients without CR were referred for salvage cystectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 60 patients were enrolled, including 11 patients with unfavorable factors defined as hydronephrosis and/or pelvic nodal involvement. After a median follow-up of 86.7 months, the 5-year overall, progression-free, and bladder preservation-specific survival rates were 76.3%, 62.9%, and 71.5%, respectively. Three patients underwent salvage cystectomy for invasive bladder recurrence. Of 45 surviving patients, 42 patients (93.3%) retained functioning bladders. Patients with unfavorable factors had significantly lower metastasis-free survival (p=0.002), but not bladder preservation-specific survival (p=0.25).

CONCLUSION

With trimodality treatment involving visually complete transurethral resection of bladder tumor, cisplatin-based induction chemotherapy, and CCRT, patients with unfavorable factors maintained satisfactory bladder preservation but not systemic control.

Bladder Sparing Approaches for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancers

Organ preservation has been increasingly utilised in the management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Multiple bladder preservation options exist, although the approach of maximal TURBT performed along with chemoradiation is the most favoured. Phase III trials have shown superiority of chemoradiotherapy compared to radiotherapy alone. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy gives local control outcomes comparable to those of radical surgery, but seemingly more superior when considering quality of life. Bladder-preserving techniques represent an alternative for patients who are unfit for cystectomy or decline major surgical intervention; however, these patients will need lifelong rigorous surveillance. It is important to emphasise to the patients opting for organ preservation the need for lifelong bladder surveillance as risk of recurrence remains even years after radical chemoradiotherapy treatment. No randomised control trials have yet directly compared radical cystectomy with bladder-preserving chemoradiation, leaving the age-old question of superiority of one modality over another unanswered. Radical cystectomy and chemoradiation, however, must be seen as complimentary treatments rather than competing treatments. Meticulous patient selection is vital in treatment modality selection with the success of recent trials within the field of bladder preservation only being possible through this application of meticulous selection criteria compared to previous decades. A multidisciplinary approach with radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and urologists is needed to closely monitor patients who undergo bladder preservation in order to optimise outcomes.

Genomic characterization of response to chemoradiation in urothelial bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

The authors characterized the genetic landscape of chemoradiation-treated urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) with the objective of identifying potential correlates of response.

METHODS

Primary tumors with (n = 8) or without (n = 40) matched recurrent tumors from 48 patients who had non-metastatic, high-grade UCB and received treatment primarily with chemoradiation were analyzed using a next-generation sequencing assay enriched for cancer-related and canonical DNA damage response (DDR) genes. Protein expression of meiotic recombination 11 homolog (MRE11), a previously suggested biomarker, was assessed in 44 patients. Recurrent tumors were compared with primary tumors, and the clinical impact of likely deleterious DDR gene alterations was evaluated.

RESULTS

The profile of alterations approximated that of prior UCB cohorts. Within 5 pairs of matched primary-recurrent tumors, a median of 92% of somatic mutations were shared. A median 33% of mutations were shared between 3 matched bladder-metastasis pairs. Of 26 patients (54%) who had DDR gene alterations, 12 (25%) harbored likely deleterious alterations. In multivariable analysis, these patients displayed a trend toward reduced bladder recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.32; P = .070) or any recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.37; P = .070). The most common of these alterations, ERCC2 (excision repair cross-complementation group 2) mutations, were associated with significantly lower 2-year metastatic recurrence (0% vs 43%; log-rank P = .044). No impact of MRE11 protein expression on outcome was detected.

CONCLUSIONS

A similar mutation profile between primary and recurrent tumors suggests that pre-existing, resistant clonal populations represent the primary mechanism of chemoradiation treatment failure. Deleterious DDR genetic alterations, particularly recurrent alterations in ERCC2, may be associated with improved chemoradiation outcomes in patients with UCB. A small sample size necessitates independent validation of these observations. Cancer 2016;122:3715-23. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

The Role of Transurethral Resection in Trimodal Therapy for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

While radical cystectomy (RC) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) represents the accepted gold standard for the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer, this treatment approach is associated with significant morbidity. As such, bladder preservation strategies are often utilized in patients who are either deemed medically unfit due to significant comorbidities or whom decline management with RC and PLND secondary to its associated morbidity. In a select group of patients, meeting strict criteria, bladder preservation approaches may be employed with curative intent. Trimodal therapy, consisting of complete transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy has demonstrated durable oncologic control and long-term survival in a number of studies. The review presented here provides a description of trimodal therapy and the role of TURBT in bladder preservation for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Comparison between standard and reduced volume radiotherapy in bladder preservation trimodality protocol for muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients

Aim

Our aim is to compare the toxicity, pelvic nodal relapse, and overall survival of whole bladder irradiation only to the standard technique of whole pelvis irradiation followed by bladder boost in patients with muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma undergoing bladder preservation protocol.

Material and method

A total of 60 patients with transitional cell carcinoma, stage T2-3, N0, M0 bladder cancer were subjected to maximal transurethral resection bladder tumour (TURB). Then, the patients were randomised into two groups: group I (30 patients) to receive whole pelvis radiotherapy 44 Gy followed by 20 Gy bladder boost. While group II (30 patients) were randomised to receive whole bladder radiotherapy alone for a total dose of 64 Gy. In both groups, concomitant cisplatin and paclitaxel were given weekly throughout the whole course of radiotherapy where conventional 2 Gy/fraction were used. Additionally, four cycles of adjuvant cisplatin and paclitaxel were given after the end of the chemoradiotherapy induction course.

Results

The first assessment after the induction chemoradiotherapy showed that complete response was achieved in 73.3% of patients in group I and 76.7% of the patients in group II. After a median follow-up of 2 years, regional relapse occurred in 7.1% of patients in group I and 10.3% in group II. (p = 1). Distant metastases were detected in 17.9% of patient in group I and 13.8% in group II (p = 0.73). The 2-year disease-free survival was 60% in group I and 63.3% in group II (p = 0.79). The whole 2-year overall survival was 75% in group I and 79.3% in group II (p = 0.689). Radiation gastrointestinal (GI) acute toxicity was higher in group I than in group II (p = 0.001), while late GI radiation toxicity was comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

Treating the bladder only, without elective pelvic nodal irradiation, did not compromise pelvic control rate, but significantly decreased the acute radiation toxicity.

Bladder Preservation Therapy: A Review of the Literature and Future Directions

Trimodal bladder preservation therapy (ie, transurethral resection followed by chemoradiotherapy) may be an acceptable treatment alternative to radical cystectomy with urinary diversion in the carefully selected patient with muscle invasive bladder cancer. Although no head-to-head randomized controlled trials have been performed, large retrospective cohort reviews and observational data analyses suggest comparable oncologic outcomes in select patients with the additional benefit of maximizing quality of life and maintaining the patient's native bladder. In this review, we discuss the evolution and clinical outcomes of bladder preservation therapy, highlighting its role in the contemporary management of muscle invasive bladder cancer.