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Lawless AK, Kumar S, Bindra J, Sywak M, Chou A, Turchini J, Papachristos A, Wijewardene A, Sidhu S, Ahadi M, Tacon L, Glover A, Clark K, Tsang V, Pang L, Clifton-Bligh RJ, Robinson B, Gill AJ, Guminski A, Eade T, Gild ML. Anaplastic thyroid cancer: A review of recent evidence and summary of an Australian institutional protocol. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2024. [PMID: 39145924 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.14106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), a rare and highly aggressive malignancy, is characterized by an exceptionally poor prognosis, where the majority of patients present with extensive local invasion and/or distant metastases. 20-30% of ATCs harbor the BRAF-V600E mutation. Neoadjuvant BRAF-targeted therapy may have the potential to downstage and facilitate surgical resection for patients with locally advanced and unresectable primary tumors with BRAF mutation and may convey a survival advantage in those with metastatic disease. There is emerging evidence to support the use of other targeted agents, including multikinase inhibitors, as well as the incorporation of immunotherapy into the treatment regimen. Rapid molecular and pathological diagnosis and expert multidisciplinary discussion at specialized treatment centers are critical to expedite investigations and initiate treatment for this complex and rapidly progressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Lawless
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shejil Kumar
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessica Bindra
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Sywak
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Endocrine Surgical Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Angela Chou
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Turchini
- Anatomical Pathology, Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Pathology, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alexander Papachristos
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Endocrine Surgical Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ayanthi Wijewardene
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stanley Sidhu
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Endocrine Surgical Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mahsa Ahadi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lyndal Tacon
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Glover
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Endocrine Surgical Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Clark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Palliative Care, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Venessa Tsang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Leo Pang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of ENT Surgery, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Roderick J Clifton-Bligh
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bruce Robinson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony J Gill
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alexander Guminski
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas Eade
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Matti L Gild
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
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Monaghan NP, Duckett KA, Nguyen SA, Newman JG, Albergotti WG, Kejner AE. Vascular events in patients with head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Head Neck 2024; 46:1557-1572. [PMID: 38334324 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the incidence of vascular events in patients with head and neck cancer. REVIEW METHODS Primary studies identified through April 2023. Meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS There were 146 studies included in the systematic review. Rates of events were collected in the overall group, those with chemoprophylaxis, and those that underwent surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Of 1 184 160 patients, 4.3% had a vascular event. Radiation therapy had highest risk of overall events and stroke when compared to surgery and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy had a higher risk of stroke and overall events when compared to surgery. CONCLUSIONS Vascular events occur in 4%-5% of patients with head and neck cancer. Our data does not support the use of routine anticoagulation. Patients undergoing radiation therapy had the highest frequency of events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil P Monaghan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kelsey A Duckett
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Shaun A Nguyen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jason G Newman
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - W Greer Albergotti
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alexandra E Kejner
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Abdalla AS, Rahman M, Khan SA. Promising Therapeutic Targets for Recurrent/Metastatic Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2024; 25:869-884. [PMID: 38862695 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-024-01219-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Anaplastic thyroid cancer presents formidable challenges, particularly in cases of recurrence or metastasis. Timely BRAF V600E testing is imperative at diagnosis, initially through immunohistochemistry, followed by comprehensive genomic profiling encompassing genes such as NTRK, RET, ALK, and assessment of tumor mutation burden (TMB). FDA-approved treatment options include dabrafenib and trametinib for patients with BRAF mutations, while those exhibiting high TMB may benefit from pembrolizumab. Further therapeutic decisions hinge upon mutational profile, urgency of response required, airway integrity, and access to targeted therapies There is growing use of immunotherapy for ATC based on published reports of activity, but currently there is no FDA approved agent for ATC. The off-label utilization of "precision medicine" combinations imposes a considerable financial strain, underscoring the necessity for further clinical trials to elucidate promising therapeutic avenues for this orphan disease. There is a pressing need for the development and support of clinical trials investigating genomically driven and immune-based therapies for anaplastic thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mobeen Rahman
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Saad A Khan
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University, 780 Welch Road, CJ250L, Stanford, CA, 94304, USA.
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Wang BC, Lin GH, Kuang BH, Cao RB. Emerging chemotherapy-based treatments in anaplastic thyroid cancer: an updated analysis of prospective studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1385747. [PMID: 38988997 PMCID: PMC11234796 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1385747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background For patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) without mutational driver genes, chemotherapy is suggested to be the first-line treatment option. However, the benefits of chemotherapy in treating ATC are limited. In this analysis, we collected the prospective data reported since 2010 to analyze the emerging chemotherapy-based treatments in ATC comprehensively. Methods For this updated analysis, we searched PubMed (MEDLINE), Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases from 1 January 2010 to 7 February 2024 for prospective clinical studies that contained chemotherapy-based treatments. This analysis was done to pool overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rates (ORRs), disease control rates (DCRs), and grade 3 or worse treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs). Results Six prospective clinical trials with 232 patients were included. Chemotherapy was commonly combined with targeted therapy or radiotherapy. The pooled median OS was 6.0 months (95% CI 4.1-9.7), and the median PFS was 3.2 months (95% CI 1.9-6.0) in patients with ATC who received chemotherapy-based strategies. The integrated ORR and DCR were 21% (95% CI 15%-27%) and 64% (95% CI 55%-72%), respectively. Regarding the grade 3 or worse TRAE, the pooled incidence was 68% (95% CI 47%-86%). Conclusion Although the emerging chemotherapy-based treatments showed antitumor activity in patients with ATC, these strategies failed to prolong the survival time substantially. More practical, safe, and novel therapeutic regimens for patients with ATC warrant further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Cheng Wang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guo-He Lin
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bo-Hua Kuang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ru-Bo Cao
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Sekihara K, Himuro H, Toda S, Saito N, Hirayama R, Suganuma N, Sasada T, Hoshino D. Recent Trends and Potential of Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1286. [PMID: 38927493 PMCID: PMC11201408 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is a rare but highly aggressive malignancy characterized by advanced disease at diagnosis and a poor prognosis. Despite multimodal therapeutic approaches that include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, an optimal treatment strategy remains elusive. Current developments in targeted therapies and immunotherapy offer promising avenues for improved outcomes, particularly for BRAF-mutant patients. However, challenges remain regarding overcoming drug resistance and developing effective treatments for BRAF-wild-type tumors. This comprehensive review examines the clinical and biological features of ATC, outlines the current standards of care, and discusses recent developments with a focus on the evolving role of radiotherapy. Moreover, it emphasizes the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach and highlights the urgent need for further research to better understand ATC pathogenesis and identify new therapeutic targets. Collaborative efforts, including large-scale clinical trials, are essential for translating these findings into improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Sekihara
- Cancer Biology Division, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama 2418515, Japan; (K.S.); (S.T.); (N.S.)
- Biospecimen Center, Kanagawa Cancer Center, Yokohama 2418515, Japan
| | - Hidetomo Himuro
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama 2418515, Japan; (H.H.); (T.S.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kanagawa Cancer Center, Yokohama 2418515, Japan
| | - Soji Toda
- Cancer Biology Division, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama 2418515, Japan; (K.S.); (S.T.); (N.S.)
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama 2320024, Japan
| | - Nao Saito
- Cancer Biology Division, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama 2418515, Japan; (K.S.); (S.T.); (N.S.)
- Biospecimen Center, Kanagawa Cancer Center, Yokohama 2418515, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Hirayama
- Department of Charged Particle Therapy Research, QST Hospital, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba 2638555, Japan;
| | - Nobuyasu Suganuma
- Department of Surgery, Yokohama City University, Yokohama 2360004, Japan;
| | - Tetsuro Sasada
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama 2418515, Japan; (H.H.); (T.S.)
| | - Daisuke Hoshino
- Cancer Biology Division, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama 2418515, Japan; (K.S.); (S.T.); (N.S.)
- Biospecimen Center, Kanagawa Cancer Center, Yokohama 2418515, Japan
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6
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Hamidi S, Iyer PC, Dadu R, Gule-Monroe MK, Maniakas A, Zafereo ME, Wang JR, Busaidy NL, Cabanillas ME. Checkpoint Inhibition in Addition to Dabrafenib/Trametinib for BRAF V600E-Mutated Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma. Thyroid 2024; 34:336-346. [PMID: 38226606 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Background: The dabrafenib plus trametinib combination (DT) has revolutionized the treatment of BRAFV600E-mutated anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (BRAFm-ATC). However, patients eventually develop resistance and progress. Single-agent anti-PD-1 inhibitor spartalizumab has shown a median overall survival (mOS) of 5.9 months. Combination of immunotherapy with BRAF/MEK inhibitors (BRAF/MEKi) seems to improve outcomes compared with BRAF/MEKi alone, although no direct comparison is available. BRAF-targeted therapy before surgery (neoadjuvant approach) has also shown improvement in survival. We studied the efficacy and safety of DT plus pembrolizumab (DTP) compared with current standard-of-care DT alone as an initial treatment, as well as in the neoadjuvant setting. Methods: Retrospective single-center study of patients with BRAFm-ATC treated with first-line BRAF-directed therapy between January 2014 and March 2023. Three groups were evaluated: DT, DTP (pembrolizumab added upfront or at progression), and neoadjuvant (DT before surgery, and pembrolizumab added before or after surgery). The primary endpoint was mOS between DT and DTP. Secondary endpoints included median progression-free survival (mPFS) and response rate with DT versus DTP as initial treatments, and the exploratory endpoint was mOS in the neoadjuvant group. Results: Seventy-one patients were included in the primary analysis: n = 23 in DT and n = 48 in DTP. Baseline demographics were similar between groups, including the presence of metastatic disease at start of treatment (p = 0.427) and prior treatments with surgery (p = 0.864) and radiation (p = 0.678). mOS was significantly longer with DTP (17.0 months [confidence interval CI, 11.9-22.1]) compared with DT alone (9.0 months [CI, 4.5-13.5]), p = 0.037. mPFS was also significantly improved with DTP as the initial treatment (11.0 months [CI, 7.0-15.0]) compared with DT alone (4.0 months [CI, 0.7-7.3]), p = 0.049. Twenty-three patients were in the exploratory neoadjuvant group, where mOS was the longest (63.0 months [CI, 15.5-110.5]). No grade 5 adverse events (AEs) occurred in all three cohorts, and 32.4% had immune-related AEs, most frequently hepatitis and colitis. Conclusions: Our results show that in BRAFm-ATC, addition of pembrolizumab to dabrafenib/trametinib may significantly prolong survival. Surgical resection of the primary tumor after initial BRAF-targeted therapy in selected patients may provide further survival benefit. However, conclusions are limited by the retrospective nature of the study. Additional prospective data are needed to confirm this observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hamidi
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Priyanka C Iyer
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ramona Dadu
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maria K Gule-Monroe
- Department of Neuroradiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anastasios Maniakas
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mark E Zafereo
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer R Wang
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Naifa L Busaidy
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maria E Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Uppalapati SS, Guha L, Kumar H, Mandoli A. Nanotechnological Advancements for the Theranostic Intervention in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: Current Perspectives and Future Direction. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2024; 24:245-270. [PMID: 37424349 DOI: 10.2174/1568009623666230707155145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid cancer is the rarest, most aggressive, and undifferentiated class of thyroid cancer, accounting for nearly forty percent of all thyroid cancer-related deaths. It is caused by alterations in many cellular pathways like MAPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, ALK, Wnt activation, and TP53 inactivation. Although many treatment strategies, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, have been proposed to treat anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, they are usually accompanied by concerns such as resistance, which may lead to the lethality of the patient. The emerging nanotechnology-based approaches cater the purposes such as targeted drug delivery and modulation in drug release patterns based on internal or external stimuli, leading to an increase in drug concentration at the site of the action that gives the required therapeutic action as well as modulation in diagnostic intervention with the help of dye property materials. Nanotechnological platforms like liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, exosomes, and various nanoparticles are available and are of high research interest for therapeutic intervention in anaplastic thyroid cancer. The pro gression of the disease can also be traced by using magnetic probes or radio-labeled probes and quantum dots that serve as a diagnostic intervention in anaplastic thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Swetha Uppalapati
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Lahanya Guha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Hemant Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Amit Mandoli
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, India
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8
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Tan JSH, Tay TKY, Ong EHW, Fehlings M, Tan DSW, Sukma NB, Chen EX, Sng JH, Yip CSP, Lim KH, Lim DWT, Iyer NG, Hwang JSG, Chua MLK, Ang MK. Combinatorial Hypofractionated Radiotherapy and Pembrolizumab in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. Eur Thyroid J 2024; 13:ETJ-23-0144. [PMID: 38181007 PMCID: PMC10895326 DOI: 10.1530/etj-23-0144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is an aggressive disease associated with poor outcomes and resistance to therapies. Our study aim was to evaluate the activity of a combinatorial regimen of sandwich sequencing of pembrolizumab immunotherapy and hypofractionated radiotherapy (RT). Methods In this case series, patients with ATC received hypofractionated RT (QUAD-shot) and intravenous pembrolizumab 200mg every 3-4 weeks. Pembrolizumab was continued until disease progression or up till 24 months. Concurrent Lenvatinib treatment was allowed. Primary endpoint was best overall response (BOR) and progression-free survival (PFS). Additionally, we performed immune profiling of circulating T cells in a responder to investigate the immune response to our combinatorial treatment. Results At median follow-up of 32.6 months (IQR: 26.4-38.8), of a cohort of 5 patients, BOR was 80%; with 2 complete responses (CR) and 2 partial responses (PR). Patients who achieved CR remained disease-free at last follow-up. Median PFS was 7.6 months (IQR: 6.2-NR), and 1-year PFS and overall survival rate was 40% (95% CI: 13.7-100) for both. Treatment was well-tolerated, with mostly grade 1-2 adverse events. Immune profiling of one partial responder revealed an increase in activated CD4 and CD8 T cells post-QUAD-shot RT, which was further enhanced during the maintenance phase of pembrolizumab. Conclusions Herein, we reported a case series of 5 patients with ATC, with 2 long-term survivors who were treated with surgical debulking followed by QUAD-shot RT and pembrolizumab, possibly due to synergy of local and systemic treatments in activating anti-tumour immunogenic cytotoxicity. This regimen warrants further investigation in a larger cohort of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice Ser Huey Tan
- Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
| | | | - Enya Hui Wen Ong
- Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
| | | | - Daniel Shao-Weng Tan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
| | | | | | - Jen-Hwei Sng
- Department of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Connie Siew Poh Yip
- Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
| | - Kok Hing Lim
- Department of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Darren Wan-Teck Lim
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
| | | | | | - Melvin Lee Kiang Chua
- Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
| | - Mei-Kim Ang
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Hospital Boulevard, Singapore
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Ghosh A, Dagar A, Bharat RP, Sharma A, Sharma DN, Mallick S. The modern landscape of radiotherapy in thyroid malignancies. J Cancer Res Ther 2024; 20:1-8. [PMID: 38554291 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_816_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Thyroid carcinoma is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system and accounts for nearly 1.5% of all new cancer cases in India. The incidence of thyroid cancers is on the rise secondary to multiple factors including the widespread use of radiological imaging. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment, and radioactive iodine therapy plays a pivotal role in differentiated thyroid cancer. Radiation therapy appears to be an underutilized treatment modality. In this review, we have summarized the role of radiation in the treatment of thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrija Ghosh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Institute, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, India
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10
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Pavlidis ET, Galanis IN, Pavlidis TE. Update on current diagnosis and management of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. World J Clin Oncol 2023; 14:570-583. [PMID: 38179406 PMCID: PMC10762533 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v14.i12.570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma has a favorable prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of over 95%. However, the undifferentiated or anaplastic type accounting for < 0.2%, usually in elderly individuals, exhibits a dismal prognosis with rapid growth and disappointing outcomes. It is the most aggressive form of thyroid carcinoma, with a median survival of 5 mo and poor quality of life (airway obstruction, dysphagia, hoarseness, persistent pain). Early diagnosis and staging are crucial. Diagnostic tools include biopsy (fine needle aspiration, core needle, open surgery), high-resolution ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, [(18)F]fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomo-graphy/computed tomography, liquid biopsy and microRNAs. The BRAF gene (BRAF-V600E and BRAF wild type) is the most often found molecular factor. Others include the genes RET, KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS. Recent management policy is based on surgery, even debulking, chemotherapy (cisplatin or doxorubicin), radiotherapy (adjuvant or definitive), targeted biological agents and immunotherapy. The last two options constitute novel hopeful management modalities improving the overall survival in these otherwise condemned patients. Anti-programmed death-ligand 1 antibody immunotherapy, stem cell targeted therapies, nanotechnology achievements and artificial intelligence imple-mentation provide novel promising alternatives. Genetic mutations determine molecular pathways, thus indicating novel treatment strategies such as anti-BRAF, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor-A, and anti-epidermal growth factor receptor. Treatment with the combination of the BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib and the MEK inhibitor trametinib has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in cases with BRAF-V600E gene mutations and is currently the standard care. This neoadjuvant treatment followed by surgery ensures a two-year overall survival of 80%. Prognostic factors for improved outcomes have been found to be younger age, earlier tumor stage and radiation therapy. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary, and the therapeutic plan should be individualized based on surveillance and epidemiology end results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios T Pavlidis
- 2nd Propedeutic Department of Surgery, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Ioannis N Galanis
- 2nd Propedeutic Department of Surgery, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Theodoros E Pavlidis
- 2nd Propedeutic Department of Surgery, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
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Zhu L, Li XJ, Gangadaran P, Jing X, Ahn BC. Tumor-associated macrophages as a potential therapeutic target in thyroid cancers. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3895-3917. [PMID: 37796300 PMCID: PMC10992981 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03549-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are important precursor cell types of the innate immune system and bridge adaptive immune responses through the antigen presentation system. Meanwhile, macrophages constitute substantial portion of the stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) (referred to as tumor-associated macrophages, or TAMs) and exhibit conflicting roles in the development, invasion, and metastasis of thyroid cancer (TC). Moreover, TAMs play a crucial role to the behavior of TC due to their high degree of infiltration and prognostic relevance. Generally, TAMs can be divided into two subgroups; M1-like TAMs are capable of directly kill tumor cells, and recruiting and activating other immune cells in the early stages of cancer. However, due to changes in the TME, M2-like TAMs gradually increase and promote tumor progression. This review aims to discuss the impact of TAMs on TC, including their role in tumor promotion, gene mutation, and other factors related to the polarization of TAMs. Finally, we will explore the M2-like TAM-centered therapeutic strategies, including chemotherapy, clinical trials, and combinatorial immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Zhu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiu Juan Li
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, 271000, Shan-Dong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Prakash Gangadaran
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiuli Jing
- Center for Life Sciences Research, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shan-Dong Province, 271000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Byeong-Cheol Ahn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
- BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
- Department Nuclear Medicine, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize recent developments in the diagnosis and management of patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). RECENT FINDINGS An updated edition of the Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors was released by the World Health Organization (WHO), in which squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid are now a subtype of ATC. Broader access to next generation sequencing has allowed better understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving ATC and improved prognostication. BRAF-targeted therapies revolutionized the treatment of advanced/metastatic BRAFV600E -mutated ATC, offering significant clinical benefit and allowing better locoregional control of disease through the neoadjuvant approach. However, inevitable development of resistance mechanisms represents a major challenge. Addition of immunotherapy to BRAF/MEK inhibition has shown very promising results and significant improvement in survival outcomes. SUMMARY Major advancements took place in the characterization and management of ATC in recent years, especially in patients with a BRAF V600E mutation. Still, no curative treatment is available, and options are limited once resistance to currently available BRAF-targeted therapies develops. Additionally, there is still a need for more effective treatments for patients without a BRAF mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hamidi
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders
| | - Anastasios Maniakas
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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13
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Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Dysregulation of the Mycobiome and Archaeome and Distinct Oncogenic Characteristics according to Subtype and Gender in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043148. [PMID: 36834564 PMCID: PMC9967748 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC) is characterized by unique tumor morphology, treatment response, and patient outcomes according to subtype and gender. While previous studies have implicated the intratumor bacterial microbiome in the incidence and progression of PTC, few studies have investigated the potential role of fungal and archaeal species in oncogenesis. In this study, we aimed to characterize the intratumor mycobiome and archaeometry in PTC with respect to its three primary subtypes: Classical (CPTC), Follicular Variant (FVPTC), and Tall Cell (TCPTC), and also with respect to gender. RNA-sequencing data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), including 453 primary tumor tissue samples and 54 adjacent solid tissue normal samples. The PathoScope 2.0 framework was used to extract fungal and archaeal microbial read counts from raw RNA-sequencing data. Overall, we found that the intratumor mycobiome and archaeometry share significant similarities in CPTC, FVPTC, and TCPTC, although most dysregulated species in CPTC are underabundant compared to normal. Furthermore, differences between the mycobiome and archaeometry were more significant between males and females, with a disproportionate number of fungal species overabundant in female tumor samples. Additionally, the expression of oncogenic PTC pathways was distinct across CPTC, FVPTC, and TCPTC, indicating that these microbes may uniquely contribute to PTC pathogenesis in each subtype. Furthermore, differences in the expression of these pathways were observed between males and females. Finally, we found a specific panel of fungi to be dysregulated in BRAF V600E-positive tumors. This study demonstrates the potential importance of microbial species to PTC incidence and oncogenesis.
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