In real life, one-quarter of patients with hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer receive chemotherapy as initial palliative therapy: a study of the Southeast Netherlands Breast Cancer Consortium

Capecitabine monotherapy as first-line treatment in advanced HER2-normal breast cancer - a nationwide, retrospective study

Background and purpose: Capecitabine can be used as first-line treatment for advanced breast cancer. However, real-world data on efficacy of capecitabine in this setting is sparse. The purpose of the study is to evaluate outcomes of patients with Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (HER2)-normal advanced breast cancer treated with capecitabine monotherapy as first-line treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study utilized the Danish Breast Cancer Group (DBCG) database and was conducted retrospectively across all Danish oncology departments. Inclusion criteria were female patients, with HER2-normal advanced breast cancer treated with capecitabine monotherapy as the first-line treatment from 2010 to 2020. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

RESULTS

A total of 494 patients were included. Median OS was 16.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 14.5-18.0), and median PFS was 6.0 months (95% CI: 5.3-6.7). Patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive disease had significantly longer OS (median: 22.8 vs. 10.5 months, p < 0.001) and PFS (median: 7.4 vs. 4.9 months, p = 0.003), when compared to ER-negative patients. Stratifying by age, patients under 45 years displayed a median PFS of 4.1 months, while those aged 45-70 years and over 70 years had median PFS of 5.7 and 7.2 months, respectively (p = 0.01).

INTERPRETATION

 In this nationwide study, the efficacy of capecitabine as a first-line treatment for HER2-normal advanced breast cancer is consistent with other, mainly retrospective, studies. However, when assessed against contemporary and newer treatments, its effectiveness appears inferior to alternative chemotherapies or targeted therapies.

Preferences for the sequencing of first-line systemic treatments in metastatic hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer

Introduction

Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is a diverse disease. Therapeutic options include hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. The optimal treatment sequence for patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR-positive), HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer remains unknown.

Methods

This was a retrospective and prospective study. The data was collected from the medical records of patients in a tertiary healthcare center in Lebanon between the years 2016 and 2019, and patients were followed up for a 3-year duration. The main aim was to identify oncologists' preferences in the choice and sequence of treatment for newly diagnosed and/or recurrent cases of HR-positive, HER2-negative MBC.

Results

A total of 51 patients were included. 24 patients received chemotherapy, while 27 received endocrine therapy as first-line treatment after a diagnosis of MBC, with a median overall survival (OS) of 13 months and a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 12 months after first-line treatment with chemotherapy, compared to 27 months and 18 months with endocrine therapy. A higher percentage of patients have received chemotherapy in the first-line setting compared to the data reported in the literature, with the choice being multifactorial.

Conclusion

Factors to consider in MBC management include the choice of first-line treatment, the optimal sequence of treatment, and the combination of available treatment options.

Efficacy and clinical outcome of chemotherapy and endocrine therapy as first-line treatment in patients with hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Endocrine therapy (ET) and ET-based regimens are the preferred first-line treatment options for hormone receptor (HR)-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative metastatic breast cancer (HR+/HER2- MBC), while chemotherapy (CT) is commonly used in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and clinical outcome of ET and CT as first-line treatment in Chinese patients with HR+/HER2- MBC.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with HR+/HER2-MBC between January 1st, 1996 and September 30th, 2018 were screened from the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Breast Cancer database. The initial and maintenance first-line treatment, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 1877 included patients, 1215 (64.7%) received CT and 662 (35.3%) received ET as initial first-line treatment. There were no statistically significant differences in PFS and OS between patients receiving ET and CT as initial first-line treatment in the total population (PFS: 12.0 vs. 11.0 months, P = 0.22; OS: 54.0 vs . 49.0 months, P =0.09) and propensity score matched population. For patients without disease progression after at least 3 months of initial therapy, maintenance ET following initial CT (CT-ET cohort, n = 449) and continuous schedule of ET (ET cohort, n = 527) had longer PFS than continuous schedule of CT (CT cohort, n = 406) in the total population (CT-ET cohort vs. CT cohort: 17.0 vs . 8.5 months; P <0.01; ET cohort vs . CT cohort: 14.0 vs . 8.5 months; P <0.01) and propensity score matched population. OS in the three cohorts yielded the same results as PFS.

CONCLUSIONS

ET was associated with similar clinical outcome to CT as initial first-line treatment. For patients without disease progression after initial CT, switching to maintenance ET showed superiority in clinical outcome over continuous schedule of CT.

Clinicopathologic features, genomic profiles and outcomes of younger vs. older Chinese hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2-negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer patients

Background

Poor outcomes have been widely reported for younger vs. older breast cancer patients, but whether this is due to age itself or the enrichment of aggressive clinical features remains controversial. We have evaluated the clinicopathologic characteristics and genomic profiles of real-world hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2-negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients to examine the determinants of outcome for younger vs. older patients in a single clinical subtype undergoing treatment in the same clinic.

Patients and methods

This study included patients presenting at the Peking University Cancer Hospital with primary stage IV or first-line metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer who consented to an additional blood draw for genomic profiling prior to treatment. Plasma samples were analyzed with a targeted 152-gene NGS panel to assess somatic circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) alterations. Genomic DNA (gDNA) extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells was analyzed for germline variants using a targeted 600-gene NGS panel. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to analyze disease free survival (DFS), progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in association with clinicopathologic and genomic variables.

Results

Sixty-three patients presenting with HR+/HER2- MBC were enrolled in this study. Fourteen patients were < 40 years, 19 were 40-50 years, and 30 were > 50 years at the time of primary cancer diagnosis. No significant associations were observed between age and DFS, PFS or OS. Shorter OS was associated with de novo Stage IV disease (p = 0.002), Luminal B subtype (p = 0.006), high Ki67 index (p = 0.036), resistance to adjuvant endocrine therapy (p = 0.0001) and clinical stage (p = 0.015). Reduced OS was also observed in association with somatic alterations in FGFR1 (p = 0.008), CCND2 (p = 0.012), RB1 (p = 0.029) or TP53 (p = 0.029) genes, but not in association with germline variants.

Conclusion

In this group of real-world HR+/HER2- MBC breast cancer patients younger age was not associated with poor outcomes. While current guidelines recommend treatment decisions based on tumor biology rather than age, young HR+ breast cancer patients are more likely to receive chemotherapy. Our findings support the development of biomarker-driven treatment strategies for these patients.

Update Breast Cancer 2023 Part 2 - Advanced-Stage Breast Cancer

In recent years, a number of new therapies have led to advances in the treatment of patients with advanced breast carcinoma. These substances are mainly CDK4/6 inhibitors and other substances that can overcome endocrine resistance, oral selective estrogen receptor degraders, antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), and PARP inhibitors. This review summarizes and evaluates the latest study results that have been published in recent months. This includes the overall survival data of the Destiny-Breast03 study, the first analysis of the CAPItello-291 study, the comparison of CDK4/6 inhibitor treatment with chemotherapy in the first line of therapy (RIGHT Choice study), the first analysis of the Destiny-Breast02 study in the treatment setting after T-DM1 treatment, and the first analysis of the Serena-2 study. Most of these studies have the potential to significantly change the therapeutic landscape for patients with advanced breast carcinoma and show that the continued rapid development of new therapies is always producing new results.

Impact of CDK4/6 inhibitors on chemotherapy utilization in earlier therapy lines for HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer in the United States

PURPOSE

Delaying chemotherapy remains a vital goal in therapeutic management of HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer (MBC). However, recent reports continue to highlight substantially high chemotherapy utilization in earlier therapy lines. In this study, we explored the impact of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) inhibitor therapy class, introduced in 2015, on early chemotherapy utilization in an older population of patients with HR+/HER2- MBC in the United States (US).

METHODS

Using an interrupted time series design, patients with a confirmed diagnosis of MBC aged ≥ 65 years initiating systemic therapy during 2010-2019 were selected from the SEER-Medicare database. The proportion of chemotherapy use was summarized quarterly based on the date of treatment initiation separately in the first, second, and third lines. Segmented regression models adjusted for autocorrelation over time were fitted to estimate trends before and after the availability of CDK4/6 inhibitors in the first quarter of 2015.

RESULTS

Of the 3244 eligible women (median age at diagnosis: 74 years), all initiated first-line therapy; 47.9% (n = 1581) initiated second-line therapy, and 50.1% (n = 792) initiated third-line therapy. Overall utilization of chemotherapy (alone or in combination) during the study period was 15.7% for the first line, 19.6% for the second line, and 24.8% for the third line. Chemotherapy utilization in the period immediately after introduction of CDK4/6 inhibitor therapy decline by estimated 2.5% in the first line (P = 0.408), 15.5% in the second line (P = 0.005), and 16.3% in the third line (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

This population-based study illustrates that chemotherapy utilization in earlier therapy lines for HR+/HER2- MBC declined steadily between 2010 and 2019. These declines were significantly accelerated by the introduction of CDK4/6 therapy class in 2015, notably in the second- and third-line settings.

Regulatory Approval, Reimbursement, and Clinical Use of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4/6 Inhibitors in Metastatic Breast Cancer in the Netherlands

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study found that CDK4/6 inhibitors rapidly reached many eligible patients with metastatic breast cancer and were adopted gradually over time in the Netherlands. Adoption of innovative medicines may be further optimized, and better transparency of the availability of new medicines during different phases of the postapproval access pathway is needed.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study reviewed approval and reimbursement decisions of the CDK4/6 inhibitors palbociclib, ribociclib, and abemaciclib and estimated the number of patients with metastatic breast cancer who were eligible for these medicines compared with the actual use in clinical practice. The study used nationwide claims data that were obtained from the Dutch Hospital Data. Claims and early access data for patients with hormone receptor-positive and ERBB2 (formerly HER2)-negative metastatic breast cancer who were treated with CDK4/6 inhibitors from November 1, 2016, to December 31, 2021, were included.

IMPORTANCE

The number of new cancer medicines that are being approved by regulatory agents is increasing exponentially. Yet little is known about the pace at which these medicines reach eligible patients in daily clinical practice during different phases of the postapproval access pathway.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Description of the postapproval access pathway, monthly number of patients who were treated with CDK4/6 inhibitors in clinical practice, and estimated number of patients who were eligible for treatment. Aggregated claims data were used, and patient characteristics and outcomes data were not collected.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the entire postapproval access pathway of cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors in the Netherlands, from regulatory approval to reimbursement and to investigate the adoption of these medicines in clinical practice among patients with metastatic breast cancer.

RESULTS

Three CDK4/6 inhibitors have received European Union-wide regulatory approval for the treatment of HR-positive and ERBB2-negative metastatic breast cancer since November 2016. In the Netherlands, the number of patients who have been treated with these medicines increased to approximately 1847 (based on 1 624 665 claims over the entire study period) from approval to the end of 2021. Reimbursement for these medicines was granted between 9 and 11 months after approval. While awaiting reimbursement decisions, 492 patients received palbociclib, the first approved medicine of this class, via an expanded access program. By the end of the study period, 1616 patients (87%) were treated with palbociclib, whereas 157 patients (7%) received ribociclib, and 74 patients (4%) received abemaciclib. The CKD4/6 inhibitor was combined with an aromatase inhibitor in 708 patients (38%) and with fulvestrant in 1139 patients (62%). The pattern of use over time appeared to be somewhat lower compared with the estimated number of eligible patients (1847 vs 1915 in December 2021), especially in the first 2.5 years after approval.

Comparison of endocrine therapy and chemotherapy as different systemic treatment modes for metastatic luminal HER2-negative breast cancer patients —A retrospective study

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate endocrine therapy and chemotherapy for first-line, maintenance, and second-line treatment of hormone receptor-positive HER-2-negative metastatic breast cancer (HR+HER-2-MBC) and the relationship between different treatment options and survival.

Patients and methods

The patients included in this study were all diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) at Shandong Cancer Hospital from January 2013 to June 2017. Of the 951 patients with MBC, 307 patients with HR+HER-2-MBC were included in the analysis. The progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of the various treatment modes were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier analysis and the log-rank test. Because of the imbalance in data, we used the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) algorithm to oversample the data to increase the balanced amount of data.

Results

This retrospective study included 307 patients with HR+HER-2-MBC; 246 patients (80.13%) and 61 patients (19.87%) were treated with first-line chemotherapy and first-line endocrine therapy, respectively. First-line endocrine therapy was better than first-line chemotherapy in terms of PFS and OS. After adjusting for known prognostic factors, patients receiving first-line chemotherapy had poorer PFS and OS outcomes than patients receiving first-line endocrine therapy. In terms of maintenance treatment, the endocrine therapy-endocrine therapy maintenance mode achieved the best prognosis, followed by the chemotherapy-endocrine therapy maintenance mode and chemotherapy-chemotherapy maintenance mode, and the no-maintenance mode has resulted in the worst prognosis. In terms of first-line/second-line treatment, the endocrine therapy/endocrine therapy mode achieved the best prognosis, while the chemotherapy/chemotherapy mode resulted in the worst prognosis. The chemotherapy/endocrine therapy mode achieved a better prognosis than the endocrine therapy/chemotherapy mode. There were no significant differences in the KI-67 index (&lt;15%/15-30%/≥30%) among the patients receiving first-line treatment modes, maintenance treatment modes, and first-line/second-line treatment modes. There was no statistical evidence in this study to support that the KI-67 index affected survival. However, in the first-line/second-line model, after SMOTE, we could see that KI-67 ≥ 30% had a poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Different treatment modes for HR+HER-2-MBC were analyzed. Endocrine therapy achieved better PFS and OS outcomes than chemotherapy. Endocrine therapy should be the first choice for first-line, maintenance, and second-line treatment of HR+HER-2-MBC.

Chemotherapy Shows a Better Efficacy Than Endocrine Therapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients with a Heterogeneous Estrogen Receptor Expression Assessed by 18F-FES PET

Background: The heterogeneity of estrogen receptor (ER) expression has long been a challenge for the diagnosis and treatment strategy of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). A novel convenient method of ER detection using 18F-fluoroestradiol positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FES PET/CT) offers a chance to screen and analyze MBC patients with ER uncertainty. Methods: MBC patients who received 18F-FES PET/CT were screened and patients with both FES positive (FES+) and negative (FES-) lesions were enrolled in this study. Progression-free survival (PFS) was estimated using the Kaplan−Meier method and was compared using the log-rank test. Results: A total of 635 patients were screened and 75 of 635 (11.8%) patients showed ER uncertainty; 51 patients received further treatment and were enrolled in this study. Among them, 20 (39.2%) patients received chemotherapy (CT), 21 (41.2%) patients received endocrine-based therapy (ET), and 10 (19.6%) patients received combined therapy (CT + ET). CT showed a better progression-free survival (PFS) compared with ET (mPFS 7.1 vs. 4.6 months, HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.20−0.93, p = 0.03). CT + ET did not improve PFS compared with either CT or ET alone (mPFS 4.4 months, p > 0.2). All three treatment options were well tolerated. Conclusions: 18F-FES PET/CT could identify patients with ER heterogeneity. Patients with bone metastasis are more likely to have ER heterogeneity. Patients with ER heterogeneity showed better sensitivity to CT rather than ET. Combined therapy of CT + ET did not improve the treatment outcome.

Implementation of CDK4/6 Inhibitors and its Influence on the Treatment Landscape of Advanced Breast Cancer Patients - Data from the Real-World Registry PRAEGNANT

Background Comprehensive data from prospective clinical trials have led to a high level of evidence establishing CDK4/6 inhibitors in combination with endocrine treatment (CDK4/6i + ET) as a standard for the treatment of HER2-negative, hormone receptor-positive (HER2- HR+) breast cancer patients in the first-line advanced therapy setting. Data on patient populations that have been treated in the real-world setting may provide an insight into changes of patient characteristics and prognosis over time. Methods The data were extracted from the prospective real-world registry PRAEGNANT (NCT02338167). Patients had to have HER2- HR+ advanced breast cancer in the first-line metastatic setting. The chosen therapies were described as well as progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in relation to the given therapies and time periods during which they were indicated. Results CDK4/6 inhibitors have been rapidly implemented since their introduction in November 2016. In recent years (2018 - 2022), about 70 - 80% of the patient population have been treated with CDK4/6 inhibitors, while endocrine monotherapy was given to about 10% and chemotherapy to about 15% of all patients. The prognosis was worst in patients treated with chemotherapy. Recently, mainly patients with a good prognosis are being treated with endocrine monotherapy, and patients who are treated with chemotherapy have an unfavorable prognosis. The PFS and OS of patients treated with CDK4/6i + ET have remained similar over time despite changes in patient characteristics. Conclusion A treatment with CDK4/6i + ET has rapidly become the therapy standard for patients in the first-line advanced breast cancer setting. After the implementation of CDK4/6i + ET, endocrine monotherapy is only given to patients with a very favorable prognosis, while chemotherapy is provided to patients with a rather unfavorable prognosis. These changes in patient characteristics did not seem to influence the prognosis of patients treated with CDK4/6i + ET.

Major advancements in metastatic breast cancer treatment: when expanding options means prolonging survival

In the last years we have witnessed tremendous advancements in the treatment landscape of metastatic breast cancer (MBC), leading to a progressive prolongation of progression-free survival and, in some cases, also of overall survival. This led to a substantial increase of advanced disease treatability. In the present review we comprehensively and critically describe the most significant progresses in the therapeutic scenario of MBC according to BC subtype. In particular, we reviewed studies reporting practice-changing data in hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, HER2-positive and triple-negative BC, with also a hint to BRCA-related tumors and the emerging HER2-low-positive category.

Activators of the Anticipatory Unfolded Protein Response with Enhanced Selectivity for Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer

Approximately 75% of breast cancers are estrogen receptor alpha-positive (ERα+), and targeting ERα directly with ERα antagonists/degraders or indirectly with aromatase inhibitors is a successful therapeutic strategy. However, such treatments are rarely curative and development of resistance is universal. We recently reported ErSO, a compound that induces ERα-dependent cancer cell death through a mechanism distinct from clinically approved ERα drugs, via hyperactivation of the anticipatory unfolded protein response. ErSO has remarkable tumor-eradicative activity in multiple ERα+ tumor models. While ErSO has promise as a new drug, it has effects on ERα-negative (ERα-) cells in certain contexts. Herein, we construct modified versions of ErSO and identify variants with enhanced differential activity between ERα+ and ERα- cells. We report ErSO-DFP, a compound that maintains antitumor efficacy, has enhanced selectivity for ERα+ cancer cells, and is well tolerated in rodents. ErSO-DFP and related compounds represent an intriguing new class for the treatment of ERα+ cancers.

Real world initial palliative treatment patterns and clinical outcomes in premenopausal patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer: A study of the National Cancer Center, China

Background

To observe whether guideline non-adherence in initial palliative treatment choices for premenopausal hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients result in worse clinical outcomes in the Chinese population.

Methods

The China National Cancer Center database was used to identify 2194 patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2015. A total of 451 premenopausal patients with HR + HER2- MBC were included. Clinicopathological features and survival information were extracted. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using log-rank test.

Results

The number of patients receiving initial chemotherapy, endocrine therapy and chemo-endocrine therapy were 222 (49.2%), 80 (17.7%), and 149 (33.0%), respectively. Patients receiving initial chemotherapy were more likely to be luminal B subtype, had more de novo stage IV disease and more liver metastasis, compared with patients receiving initial endocrine therapy. Both PFS and OS were significantly longer for chemo-endocrine therapy group (median PFS 18.9 months and OS 75.0 months), than for endocrine therapy group (median PFS 11.7 months and OS 53.5 months), and chemotherapy group (median PFS 7.1 months and OS 43.9 months). In multivariate analysis, none of the three treatment strategies were independently associated with PFS or OS.

Conclusion

In real world, a high percentage of premenopausal patients with HR + HER2- disease received chemotherapy as initial palliative treatment in China, which was not associated with worsened survival. Further studies with larger sample size across China are needed to explore the relationship between this guideline non-adherence and clinical outcomes.

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Large retrospective analysis focusing on premenopausal patients with HR + HER2-metastatic breast cancer in China.

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A high percentage of the study patients received chemotherapy as initial palliative treatment.

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No differences in survival were observed on first-line chemotherapy or endocrine therapy.

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Further studies across China are needed to explore the relationship between guideline non-adherence and clinical outcomes.

The Place of Chemotherapy in The Evolving Treatment Landscape for Patients With HR-positive/HER2-negative MBC

Endocrine therapy (ET) for the treatment of patients with hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR-positive/HER2-negative) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has changed markedly over recent years with the emergence of new ETs and the use of molecularly targeted agents. Cytotoxic chemotherapy continues, however, to have an important role in these patients and it is important to maximize its efficacy while minimizing toxicity to optimize outcomes. This review examines current HR-positive/HER2-negative MBC clinical guidelines and addresses key questions around the use of chemotherapy in the face of emerging therapeutic options. Specifically, the indications for chemotherapy in patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative MBC and the choice of optimal chemotherapy are discussed.

Progression-free survival on endocrine therapy, before or after chemotherapy, in hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer

PURPOSE

A major question when treating HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is whether early introduction of chemotherapy (CT) increases endocrine resistance. We aimed to describe progression-free survival (PFS) under first endocrine therapy (ET) depending on whether given before or after CT in a large nationwide cohort, in the pre-CDK era.

METHODS

The real-life retrospective ESME database includes all patients with MBC whose first-line treatment was initiated between 2008 and 2014 in one of the 18 French Comprehensive Cancer Centres. Our primary objective was to compare PFS from start of first ET in patients with HR+/HER2- MBC who received ET or CT first.

RESULTS

We identified 6293 patients who received at least one ET line during their first two therapeutic lines for MBC. As first-line therapy, 3832 (60.9%) received ET alone (ET1 1st group), whilst 2461 (39.1%) received CT, including 2024 patients (32.2%) with maintenance ET after CT (ET1 after CT group). Median PFS under first ET was 12.4 months (95% CI 11.9-13.1) in ET 1st group vs. 12.6 months in ET1 after CT group (95% CI 12.1-13.4), HR 0.96 (95% CI 0.90-1.01, P = 0.1277).

CONCLUSIONS

PFS under first ET appears identical whether prescribed before or after chemotherapy. These data suggest chemotherapy does not promote endocrine resistance.

Real-World Efficacy of Fulvestrant Monotherapy as the First Treatment or Maintenance Treatment in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Background

Fulvestrant 500 mg monotherapy is recommended as the first-line endocrine treatment in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC). It is also used in MBC maintenance treatment. However, few studies have compared the efficacy of fulvestrant during the initial treatment with that during maintenance treatment.

Patients and Methods

MBC patients who were treated with fulvestrant either as initial therapy for metastatic disease or after progression following one line of chemotherapy between January 2016 and December 2017 were identified from the database of the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

The study included 135 MBC patients who were treated with fulvestrant; 116 patients who received fulvestrant as first-line treatment were divided into 2 groups: the no-chemotherapy treatment (NCT) group received fulvestrant as initial therapy during disease progression, and the chemotherapy treatment (CT) group received fulvestrant as maintenance following disease stabilization or response to previous chemotherapy. The median PFS was 16 months in NCT patients and 8 months in the CT group. Patients who had a longer disease-free survival, no visceral metastasis and one metastasis site, benefited from fulvestrant as first-line treatment during disease progression. Patients with 2 or more metastasis sites benefited from chemotherapy as first-line treatment and fulvestrant as maintenance treatment.

Conclusions

Fulvestrant monotherapy showed good clinical activity and safety in patients with MBC who were treated upon disease progression and in those receiving maintenance therapy.

Treatment and Monitoring Variability in US Metastatic Breast Cancer Care

PURPOSE

Treatment and monitoring options for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) are increasing, but little is known about variability in care. We sought to improve understanding of MBC care and its correlates by analyzing real-world claims data using a search engine with a novel query language to enable temporal electronic phenotyping.

METHODS

Using the Advanced Cohort Engine, we identified 6,180 women who met criteria for having estrogen receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative MBC from IBM MarketScan US insurance claims (2007-2014). We characterized treatment, monitoring, and hospice usage, along with clinical and nonclinical factors affecting care.

RESULTS

We observed wide variability in treatment modality and monitoring across patients and geography. Most women received first-recorded therapy with endocrine (67%) versus chemotherapy, underwent more computed tomography (CT) (76%) than positron emission tomography-CT, and were monitored using tumor markers (58%). Nearly half (46%) met criteria for aggressive disease, which were associated with receiving chemotherapy first, monitoring primarily with CT, and more frequent imaging. Older age was associated with endocrine therapy first, less frequent imaging, and less use of tumor markers. After controlling for clinical factors, care strategies varied significantly by nonclinical factors (median regional income with first-recorded therapy and imaging type, geographic region with these and with imaging frequency and use of tumor markers; P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

Variability in US MBC care is explained by patient and disease factors and by nonclinical factors such as geographic region, suggesting that treatment decisions are influenced by local practice patterns and/or resources. A search engine designed to express complex electronic phenotypes from longitudinal patient records enables the identification of variability in patient care, helping to define disparities and areas for improvement.

Prognostic Factors in Hormone Receptor-Positive/Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Negative (HR+/HER2-) Advanced Breast Cancer: A Systematic Literature Review

PURPOSE

Advanced breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with several well-defined subtypes, among which, hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR+/HER2-) is most prevalent. Determination of HR and HER2 status influences prognosis and, thus, disease management. Although literature on these prognostic factors exist, especially in the early breast cancer setting, it remains unclear to what extent these factors can guide clinical decision-making in the advanced disease setting. Therefore, we sought to identify the strength and consistency of evidence for prognostic factors in patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer.

METHODS

A systematic literature review (SLR) of the major electronic databases was conducted in November 2018 for primary research studies published since 2010. Endpoints of interest were tumor response, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS).

RESULTS

Seventy-nine studies were included wherein all patients were diagnosed with advanced breast cancer and ≥50% of the population were HR+/HER2-. OS was the most commonly assessed endpoint (n=67) followed by PFS (n=33), BCSS (n=5) and tumor response (n=3). The prognostic factors with strongest evidence of association with worse OS were negative progesterone receptor status, higher tumor grade, higher circulating tumor cell (CTC) count and higher Ki67 level, number of metastatic sites (eg multiple vs single) and sites of metastases (eg presence of liver metastases vs absence), shorter time to recurrence or progression to advanced breast cancer, poor performance status, prior therapy attributes in the early or metastatic setting (type of therapy, treatment line, response of prior therapy), and race (black vs white). The prognostic factors that had strongest evidence of association with PFS included CTC count, number and sites of metastases, and absence of prior therapy or higher lines of therapy in the early or metastatic setting. The directionality of association was consistent for all prognostic factors except between lymph node and OS, and de novo metastatic breast cancer and PFS.

CONCLUSION

Multiple disease, treatment, and patient-related prognostic factors impact survival, particularly OS, in patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer. Treatment outcomes can vary considerably due to these factors. Understanding poorer prognostic factors for patients can result in improved clinical decision-making.

A small-molecule activator of the unfolded protein response eradicates human breast tumors in mice

Metastatic estrogen receptor α (ERα)-positive breast cancer is presently incurable. Seeking to target these drug-resistant cancers, we report the discovery of a compound, called ErSO, that activates the anticipatory unfolded protein response (a-UPR) and induces rapid and selective necrosis of ERα-positive breast cancer cell lines in vitro. We then tested ErSO in vivo in several preclinical orthotopic and metastasis mouse models carrying different xenografts of human breast cancer lines or patient-derived breast tumors. In multiple orthotopic models, ErSO treatment given either orally or intraperitoneally for 14 to 21 days induced tumor regression without recurrence. In a cell line tail vein metastasis model, ErSO was also effective at inducing regression of most lung, bone, and liver metastases. ErSO treatment induced almost complete regression of brain metastases in mice carrying intracranial human breast cancer cell line xenografts. Tumors that did not undergo complete regression and regrew remained sensitive to retreatment with ErSO. ErSO was well tolerated in mice, rats, and dogs at doses above those needed for therapeutic responses and had little or no effect on normal ERα-expressing murine tissues. ErSO mediated its anticancer effects through activation of the a-UPR, suggesting that activation of a tumor protective pathway could induce tumor regression.

Everolimus plus aromatase inhibitors as maintenance therapy after first-line chemotherapy: Final results of the phase III randomised MAIN-A (MAINtenance Afinitor) trial

BACKGROUND

Despite endocrine therapy being the mainstay of treatment for hormone receptor positive (HR+)/HER2- metastatic breast cancer, patients at risk of visceral crisis or doubt for endocrine sensitivity are still offered first-line chemotherapy. Maintenance hormonal therapy is generally offered at the discontinuation of chemotherapy. The MAINtenance Afinitor study is a randomised, phase III trial comparing maintenance everolimus combined with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) versus AI monotherapy in patients with disease control after first-line chemotherapy.

METHODS

Patients with stable disease, partial response or complete response after first-line chemotherapy were randomised to everolimus plus AIs (exemestane or letrozole or anastrozole) or to AIs alone. Primary aim was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary aims included response rate, safety and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

In total, 110 patients were randomised to everolimus + AIs (n = 52) or to AIs (n = 58). Median PFS was 11.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.1-13.8) in the everolimus + AI arm and 7.2 months (95% CI 4.7-10.9) in the AI monotherapy arm (hazard ratio [HR] 0.71, 95% CI 0.47-1.06). Objective response rate was 22.4% in everolimus + AI arm and 19.2% in AI monotherapy arm. A higher proportion of disease progression as best response was reported in the AI monotherapy arm (28.8% versus 14.3%). Median OS was 35.7 months (95% CI 26.0-47.8) in the combination arm versus 33.5 (95% CI 26.4-42.7) in the AI alone arm (HR 1.0, 95% CI 0.61-1.62).

CONCLUSIONS

EVE + AIs did not significantly impact on the outcome of metastatic breast cancer patients deemed suitable for first-line chemotherapy. Also taking into account treatment tolerability, maintenance endocrine therapy remains the standard.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

EudraCT: 2013-004153-24.

Chemotherapy or endocrine therapy, first-line treatment for patients with hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer in China: a real-world study

Background

Although endocrine therapy (ET) is the preferred option for hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (HR+/HER2- MBC), chemotherapy (CT) is still commonly used. The objective of this real-world study was to present the actual choice of first-line treatment for patients with HR+/HER2- MBC and evaluate the consistency with guidelines in China.

Methods

Patients with HR+/HER2- MBC between 1996 and September 2018 were identified from of the database of Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Breast Cancer (CSCO BC). The statistical description was conducted to present the first-line treatment. Factors influencing the prescription of ET or CT were obtained using univariate and multivariate analysis. The consistency of the actual treatment with the guideline of Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Breast Cancer (CSCO BC guideline) was evaluated.

Results

Of 1,877 patients, 662 (35.3%) received ET, and 1,215 (64.7%) received CT. ET proportion was only 25.4% in 1996-2005 and gradually increased to 44.6% in 2016-2018. Aromatase inhibitors (69% of ET) and taxane-based regimens (66% of CT) were the most commonly used ET and CT, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that patients with age ≥60, distant relapse-free interval (DRFI) ≥24 months, ER+/PR+, bone metastasis only, or progression on (neo)adjuvant ET were preferably chosen for ET as first-line treatment. Factors associated with preferring CT were de novo stage IV, liver or lung metastasis. 17.2% of patients (322 cases) who had neither visceral metastasis nor progression on (neo)adjuvant ET wrongly received CT instead of ET, which is inconsistent with CSCO BC guideline. More than half of patients receiving CT discontinued their initial treatment due to adverse events and other non-disease progression reasons.

Conclusions

Although high proportion of HR+/HER2- MBC patients received CT as first-line treatment in China, it is gratifying to see that the proportion of patients receiving ET has gradually increased. Our study revealed that 17.2% of patients were over-treated according to CSCO BC guideline, which may provide data to promote guideline adherence. The clinical application for ET should be appropriately expanded in first-line treatment, especially for patients without visceral disease and proof of endocrine resistance.

Real-world Data on First-line Systemic Therapy for Hormone Receptor-positive HER2-negative Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Trend Shift in the Era of CDK 4/6 Inhibitors

Hormone receptor-positive (HR⁺) human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HER2^-) tumors represent the most common subtype of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). International guidelines clearly state that endocrine therapy (ET) should be considered the preferred first-line therapy for these patients in the absence of very symptomatic visceral disease or evidence of endocrine resistance. Nonetheless compliance with guidelines significantly vary worldwide for many different reasons. Historically, a substantial proportion of patients with HR⁺ HER2^- MBC have been treated with chemotherapy (CT) in first-line setting, jeopardizing patients' quality of life without a significant benefit in outcome. In 17 observational studies, including more than 63,000 patients, ET was most frequently used in first-line treatment of HR⁺/HER2^- MBC (range, 42%-87%), nonetheless a high proportion of patients received CT (13%-66%) as initial therapy. More recently, results of clinical trials with CDK 4/6 inhibitors improved response, progression-free and overall survival in this population and are currently the standard of care. There was a trend toward increased use of ET in recent years. This review article aims to evaluate real-world data on patterns of first-line treatment of HR⁺ HER2^- MBC with a special focus on the use of CT in this setting and the potential implications and perceived preliminary changes after the introduction of CDK 4/6 inhibitors.

Challenge of Incorporating New Drugs for Breast Cancer in Brazil: A Proposed Framework for Improving Access to Innovative Therapies

PURPOSE

The objective of this review is to address the barriers limiting access to treatment of advanced metastatic breast cancer (mBC) in Brazil, specifically for patients in the public health care system, arguably those with the least access to innovation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A selected panel of Brazilian experts in BC were provided with a series of relevant questions to address in a multiday conference. During the conference, responses were discussed and edited by the entire group through numerous drafts and rounds of discussion until a consensus was achieved.

RESULTS

The authors propose specific and realistic recommendations for implementing access to new drugs in cancer care in Brazil. Moreover, in creating these recommendations and framework, the authors strive to address the most important barriers and impediments for technology incorporation. A feasible and specific multidisciplinary process is proposed, which is based on the collective participation of all involved stakeholders.

CONCLUSION

Given the current benefits and likely future developments, there is a great need to expand treatments for mBC not only in Brazil but also in most other countries in the world where access issues remain an unresolved demand. Adapting the current framework is essential for accomplishing this goal. The recommendations in this review can serve as a framework for adoption of new technologies in countries with limited resources.

Endocrine-Based Treatments in Clinically-Relevant Subgroups of Hormone Receptor-Positive/HER2-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

A precise assessment of the efficacy of first-/second-line endocrine therapies (ET) ± target therapies (TT) in clinically-relevant subgroups of hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has not yet been conducted. To improve our current knowledge and support clinical decision-making, we thus conducted a systematic literature search to identify all first-/second-line phase II/III randomized clinical trials (RCT) of currently approved or most promising ET ± TT. Then, we performed a meta-analysis to assess progression-free (PFS) and/or overall survival (OS) benefit in several clinically-relevant prespecified subgroups. Thirty-five RCT were included (17,595 patients). Pooled results show significant reductions in the risk of relapse or death of 26-41% and 12-27%, respectively, depending on the clinical subgroup. Combination strategies proved to be more effective than single-agent ET (PFS hazard ratio (HR) range for combinations: 0.60-0.65 vs. HR range for single agent ET: 0.59-1.37; OS HR range for combinations: 0.74-0.87 vs. HR range for single agent ET: 0.68-0.98), with CDK4/6-inhibitors(i) + ET being the most effective regimen. Single agent ET showed comparable efficacy with ET+TT combinations in non-visceral (p = 0.63) and endocrine sensitive disease (p = 0.79), while mTORi-based combinations proved to be a valid therapeutic option in endocrine-resistant tumors, as well as PI3Ki + ET in PIK3CA-mutant tumors. These results strengthen international treatment guidelines and can aid therapeutic decision-making.

Survival before and after the introduction of pertuzumab and T-DM1 in HER2-positive advanced breast cancer, a study of the SONABRE Registry

Purpose

Immediate and proper implementation of a new and more potent therapy is important to ensure that the patient achieves the best possible outcome. This study aimed to examine whether the real-world overall survival (OS) has improved in patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2 +) advanced breast cancer (ABC) since the market release of pertuzumab and T-DM1. Furthermore, we aimed to assess the implementation and survival rates per hormone receptor (HR) subtype.

Patients and methods

We included 493 systemically treated patients consecutively diagnosed with HER2 + ABC in 2008–2017 from the SOutheast Netherlands Advanced BREast cancer (SONABRE) Registry. Median OS was obtained using the Kaplan–Meier method and differences between periods (2008–2012 versus 2013–2017) were tested using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression modeling. The 3-year implementation rates were estimated for any HER2-targeted therapy, pertuzumab, and T-DM1 by using the competing risk method and calculated from the date of diagnosis of ABC to start of HER2-targeted therapy of interest.

Results

The median OS in 2008–2012 versus 2013–2017 was 28.3 versus 39.7 months in all patients (adjusted hazard ratio (adjHR) 0.85, 95%CI 0.66–1.08), 29.9 versus 36.3 months in patients with HR + /HER2 + disease (adjHR 0.97, 95%CI 0.72–1.32), and 22.7 versus 40.9 months in patients with HR-/HER2 + disease (adjHR 0.59, 95%CI 0.38–0.92). Any HER2-targeted therapy was used in 79% of patients in 2008–2012 and in 84% in 2013–2017. The use of pertuzumab and T-DM1 in 2013–2017 was 48% and 29%, respectively. For patients diagnosed with HR + /HER2 + and HR-/HER2 + disease, implementation rates in 2013–2017 were , respectively, 77% and 99% for any HER2-targeted therapy, 38% and 69% for pertuzumab, and 24% and 40% for T-DM1.

Conclusion

The survival of patients with HER2 + ABC improved since the introduction of pertuzumab and T-DM1. There is room for improvement in implementation of these HER2-targeted therapies, especially in patients with HR + /HER2 + disease.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10549-021-06178-8.

Endocrine Therapy for Hormone Receptor-Positive Advanced Breast Cancer: A Nation-Wide Multicenter Epidemiological Study in China

Background

Clinical guidelines generally recommend endocrine therapy (ET) as first-line treatment of hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer (HR+ ABC) whereas chemotherapy (CT) should be considered in the presence of life-threatening disease or limited clinical benefit after three sequential ET regimens. However, it is unclear if real-world clinical practice is in accordance with the current guidelines. This study was to present the real-world treatment patterns and ET regimens among HR+ ABC patients in China.

Methods

Using data from the Nation-wide Multicenter Retrospective Clinical Epidemiology Study of Female Advanced Breast Cancer in China (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03047889), we investigated the clinicopathological characteristics, clinical profiles, and treatment patterns of HR+ ABC patients from January 2012 to December 2014.

Results

A total of 2,342 patients with HR+ ABC were included in this study. Our findings revealed that, in comparisons with those receiving initial CT (n = 1445), patients initiated ET (n =402) were significantly older, later recurrent after adjuvant treatment, with a lower rate of visceral involvement and a decreasing quantity of metastatic sites. A total of 1,308 patients received palliative ET while only 18.9% patients (n = 247) reached three lines of ET. Among patients completing more than one line of ET, the median treatment duration was 8 months for the first line, 6 months for the second line, and 3 months for the third line for patients receiving ET. In the advanced setting, the choices of palliative ET regimens were diverse, yet aromatase inhibitor (AI) monotherapy was still the overall mainstay of ET; in contrast, patients were less accessible to everolimus plus AI regimen in this population.

Conclusions

Less than one quarter of patients initiated palliative ET for HR+ ABC in routine clinical practice. Patients who received multi-lines of ET experienced successive shorter durations following each line of therapy. This real-life data provides a solid overview of ET for HR+ ABC from China, indicating unmet need for treatment options that improve the effectiveness of endocrine therapy.

Efficacy of Circulating Tumor Cell Count-Driven vs Clinician-Driven First-line Therapy Choice in Hormone Receptor-Positive, ERBB2-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer: The STIC CTC Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

The choice between chemotherapy and endocrine therapy as first-line treatment for hormone receptor-positive, ERBB2 (also known as HER2)-negative metastatic breast cancer is usually based on the presence of clinical features associated with a poor prognosis. In this setting, a high circulating tumor cell (CTC) count (≥5 CTCs/7.5 mL) is a strong adverse prognostic factor for overall survival and progression-free survival (PFS).

Objective

To compare the efficacy of a clinician-driven treatment choice vs a CTC-driven choice for first-line treatment.

Interventions

In the CTC arm, patients received chemotherapy or endocrine therapy according to the CTC count (chemotherapy if ≥5 CTCs/7.5 mL; endocrine therapy if <5 CTCs/7.5 mL), whereas in the control arm, the choice was left to the investigator.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In the STIC CTC randomized, open-label, noninferiority phase 3 trial, participants were randomized to a clinician-driven choice of first-line treatment or a CTC count-driven first-line treatment choice. Eligible participants were premenopausal and postmenopausal women 18 years or older diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive, ERBB2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Data were collected at 17 French cancer centers from February 1, 2012, to July 28, 2016, and analyzed June 2019 to October 2019.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary end point was the investigator-assessed PFS in the per-protocol population, with a noninferiority margin of 1.25 for the 90% CI of the hazard ratio.

Results

Among the 755 women in the per-protocol population, the median (range) age was 63 (30-88) years [64 (30-88) years for the 377 patients allocated to the CTC arm and 63 (31-87) years for the 378 patients allocated to the standard arm]; 138 (37%) and 103 (27%) received chemotherapy, respectively. Median PFS was 15.5 months (95% CI, 12.7-17.3) in the CTC arm and 13.9 months (95% CI, 12.2-16.3) in the standard arm. The primary end point was met, with a hazard ratio of 0.94 (90% CI, 0.81-1.09).

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial found that the CTC count may be a reliable biomarker method for guiding the choice between chemotherapy and endocrine therapy as the first-line treatment in hormone receptor-positive, ERBB2-negative metastatic breast cancer.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01710605.

Heregulin (HRG) assessment for clinical trial eligibility testing in a molecular registry (PRAEGNANT) in Germany

BACKGROUND

Eligibility criteria are a critical part of clinical trials, as they define the patient population under investigation. Besides certain patient characteristics, clinical trials often include biomarker testing for eligibility. However, patient-identification mostly relies on the trial site itself and is often a time-consuming procedure, which could result in missing out on potentially eligible patients. Pre-selection of those patients using a registry could facilitate the process of eligibility testing and increase the number of identified patients. One aim with the PRAEGNANT registry (NCT02338167) is to identify patients for therapies based on clinical and molecular data. Here, we report eligibility testing for the SHERBOC trial using the German PRAEGNANT registry.

METHODS

Heregulin (HRG) has been reported to identify patients with better responses to therapy with the anti-HER3 monoclonal antibody seribantumab (MM-121). The SHERBOC trial investigated adding seribantumab (MM-121) to standard therapy in patients with advanced HER2-negative, hormone receptor-positive (HR-positive) breast cancer and HRG overexpression. The PRAEGNANT registry was used for identification and tumor testing, helping to link potential HRG positive patients to the trial. Patients enrolled in PRAEGNANT have invasive and metastatic or locally advanced, inoperable breast cancer. Patients eligible for SHERBOC were identified by using the registry. Study aims were to describe the HRG positivity rate, screening procedures, and patient characteristics associated with inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Among 2769 unselected advanced breast cancer patients, 650 were HER2-negative, HR-positive and currently receiving first- or second-line treatment, thus potentially eligible for SHERBOC at the end of current treatment; 125 patients also met further clinical eligibility criteria (e.g. menopausal status, ECOG). In the first/second treatment lines, patients selected for SHERBOC based on further eligibility criteria had a more favorable prognosis than those not selected. HRG status was tested in 38 patients, 14 of whom (36.8%) proved to be HRG-positive.

CONCLUSION

Using a real-world breast cancer registry allowed identification of potentially eligible patients for SHERBOC focusing on patients with HER3 overexpressing, HR-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. This approach may provide insights into differences between patients eligible or non-eligible for clinical trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials, NCT02338167 , Registered 14 January 2015 - retrospectively registered.

Patient-Reported Outcomes of Palbociclib Plus Exemestane with GnRH Agonist versus Capecitabine in Premenopausal Women with Hormone Receptor-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Prospective, Open-Label, Randomized Phase ll Trial (KCSG-BR 15-10)

Simple Summary

We reported that palbociclib plus exemestane with ovarian function suppression (with leuprolide) led to significantly longer median progression-free survival compared with capecitabine in premenopausal metastatic breast cancer patients. We also evaluated differences of patient report outcomes (PROs) between palbociclib plus endocrine therapy (ET) and capecitabine as upfront therapy in this study population. All the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality of life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) were maintained from baseline to the end of treatment within each treatment arm. Patients with palbociclib plus ET arm experienced delay in time to deterioration of physical functioning, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea. There was a trend for worsening of insomnia in the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy (ET) arm and appetite loss in the capecitabine arm. Patients with palbociclib plus ET had significant overall improvement of quality of life and significant delay in time to deterioration without compromising treatment efficacy.

Abstract

In the era of CDK4/6 inhibitors in hormone receptor (HR)-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer, few trials have been specifically studied to compare quality of life between palbociclib plus endocrine therapy (ET) and cytotoxic chemotherapy exclusively in premenopausal women. We aimed to evaluate differences of patient report outcomes (PROs) between palbociclib plus ET and capecitabine. PROs were assessed using EORTC QLQ-C30 at baseline, every 6 weeks, and the end of treatment. All EORTC QLQ-30 scores were maintained from baseline to the end of treatment. Patients treated palbociclib plus ET arm experienced delay in time-to-deterioration of physical functioning (HR = 0.58, 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.84, p = 0.0058), nausea and vomiting (HR = 0.48; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.73, p = 0.0005), and diarrhea (HR = 0.42; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.65, p = 0.001). There was a numeric trend for worsening of insomnia (HR = 1.43; 95% CI, 0.96 to 2.16, p = 0.079) and favoring of appetite loss (HR = 0.69, 95% CI, 0.44 to 1.07, p = 0.09) in the palbociclib plus ET arm. Premenopausal patients with palbociclib plus ET maintained QoL without compromising treatment efficacy.

Survival in patients with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer treated with initial endocrine therapy versus initial chemotherapy. A French population-based study

BACKGROUND

According to international guidelines, endocrine therapy (ET) is the preferred option for hormone receptor-positive (HR+) HER2-negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer. In spite of clear recommendations, these are not strictly followed in daily practice. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of the first anti-metastatic treatment therapy choice on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

METHODS

In this population-based study, we included patients with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer recorded in the Côte d'Or Breast Cancer Registry. Differences in PFS and OS between patients initially treated with chemotherapy (CT) or ET were analysed in Cox proportional hazards models. In a sensitivity analysis, we used a propensity score (PS) to limit the indication bias.

RESULTS

Altogether, 557 cases were included, 280 received initial ET and 277 received initial CT. PFS and OS in patients initially treated with ET was improved significantly when compared to patients with initial CT (respectively, HR = 0.83 (95% CI 0.69-0.99) and HR = 0.71 (95% CI 0.58-0.86)). The results of the sensitivity analysis supported these findings.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that treating patients with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer with initial ET could provide a survival advantage in comparison with initial CT.

Initial experience with CDK4/6 inhibitor-based therapies compared to antihormone monotherapies in routine clinical use in patients with hormone receptor positive, HER2 negative breast cancer - Data from the PRAEGNANT research network for the first 2 years of drug availability in Germany

Purpose

Treatment with CDK4/6 inhibitors and endocrine therapy (CDK4/6i + ET) is a standard for patients with advanced hormone receptor–positive, HER2-negative (HR + HER2–) breast cancer (BC). However, real-world data on the implementation of therapy usage, efficacy, and toxicity have not yet been reported.

Methods

The PRAEGNANT registry was used to identify advanced HR + HER2– BC patients (n = 1136). The use of chemotherapy, ET, everolimus + ET, and CDK4/6i + ET was analyzed for first-line, second-line, and third-line therapy. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were also compared between patients treated with CDK4/6i + ET and ET monotherapy. Also toxicity was assessed.

Results

CDK4/6i + ET use increased from 38.5% to 62.7% in the first 2 years after CDK4/6i treatment became available (November 2016). Chemotherapy and ET monotherapy use decreased from 2015 to 2018 from 42.2% to 27.2% and from 53% to 9.5%, respectively. In this early analysis no statistically significant differences were found comparing CDK4/6i + ET and ET monotherapy patients with regard to PFS and OS. Leukopenia was was seen in 11.3% of patients under CDK4/6i + ET and 0.5% under ET monotherapy.

Conclusions

In clinical practice, CDK4/6i + ET has been rapidly implemented. A group of patients with a more unfavorable prognosis was possibly treated in the real-world setting than in the reported randomized clinical trials. The available data suggest that longer follow-up times and a larger sample size are required in order to identify differences in survival outcomes. Studies should be supported that investigate whether chemotherapy can be avoided or delayed in this patient population by using CDK4/6i + ET.

•

CDK4/6i + ET use increased from 39% to 63% after becoming available.

•

Chemotherapy and ET monotherapy use decreased from 42% to 27% and 53%–10%.

•

There was no difference between CDK4/6i + ET and ET monotherapy regarding PFS and OS.

Palbociclib and beyond for the treatment of HR + HER2- metastatic breast cancer: an Asian-Pacific perspective and practical management guide on the use of CDK4/6 inhibitors

Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer amongst women worldwide including in Asia where the incidence rate is rapidly increasing. Even with treatment, around 30% of patients with early breast cancer progress to metastatic disease, with hormone receptor positive (HR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-) breast cancer the most common phenotype. First-line endocrine therapy targeting the estrogen receptor signaling pathway provides a median progression-free survival or time to progression of 6-15 months in HR + HER2- metastatic breast cancer. Recently, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors, combined with endocrine therapy, have achieved more than two years median progression-free survival in HR + HER2- metastatic breast cancer. However, the characteristics of the Asian breast cancer population differ from those of Western populations and need to be considered when selecting a suitable treatment. Breast cancer is diagnosed at a younger age in Asian populations and late stage at presentation is generally more common in low-/middle-income countries than high-income countries. Consequently, the proportion of premenopausal women with metastatic breast cancer is higher in Asian compared with Western populations. While CDK4/6 inhibitors have been approved in the USA (FDA) since 2015, experience with them in Asia is more limited. We review the experience with the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib in Asian patients with HR + HER2- metastatic breast cancer and provide guidance on the use of palbociclib in these patients.

Hormone Receptor-Positive/Human Epidermal Growth Receptor 2-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer in Young Women: Emerging Data in the Era of Molecularly Targeted Agents

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in young women worldwide, accounting for an estimated 30% of new cancer diagnoses and 25% of cancer deaths. Approximately two thirds of young women with breast cancer have hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth receptor 2-negative (HER2-) tumors. Numerous studies, primarily in early-stage breast cancer, have demonstrated that young age is an independent risk factor for more aggressive disease and worse outcomes. Although more limited data are available regarding outcomes in young patients with advanced disease, these age-related disparities suggest that breast cancer in premenopausal women has distinct clinicopathologic and molecular features that can impact treatment outcomes. Until recently, limited data were available on the intrinsic molecular subtypes and genetics of young patients with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer (mBC). In this review, we explore insights into the clinical and pathologic features of HR+/HER2- mBC in younger women derived from recent clinical trials of the cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors palbociclib (PALOMA-3), ribociclib (MONALEESA-7), and abemaciclib (MONARCH 2) and the implications of these findings for clinical practice, guideline development, and future research. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This review provides clinicians with an overview of emerging data on the unique clinicopathologic and molecular features of hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth receptor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer (mBC) in premenopausal women, summarizes findings from the most recent clinical trials of endocrine-based treatment in this patient population, and explores the implications of these findings for clinical practice, guideline development, and future research. Improved understanding of the key factors influencing disease course and treatment response in premenopausal patients with mBC may lead to more timely incorporation of evidence-based treatment approaches, thereby improving patient care and outcomes.

Breast Cancer: A Molecularly Heterogenous Disease Needing Subtype-Specific Treatments

Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women. There were over two-million new cases in world in 2018. It is the second leading cause of death from cancer in western countries. At the molecular level, breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease, which is characterized by high genomic instability evidenced by somatic gene mutations, copy number alterations, and chromosome structural rearrangements. The genomic instability is caused by defects in DNA damage repair, transcription, DNA replication, telomere maintenance and mitotic chromosome segregation. According to molecular features, breast cancers are subdivided in subtypes, according to activation of hormone receptors (estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor), of human epidermal growth factors receptor 2 (HER2), and or BRCA mutations. In-depth analyses of the molecular features of primary and metastatic breast cancer have shown the great heterogeneity of genetic alterations and their clonal evolution during disease development. These studies have contributed to identify a repertoire of numerous disease-causing genes that are altered through different mutational processes. While early-stage breast cancer is a curable disease in about 70% of patients, advanced breast cancer is largely incurable. However, molecular studies have contributed to develop new therapeutic approaches targeting HER2, CDK4/6, PI3K, or involving poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors for BRCA mutation carriers and immunotherapy.

Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors in hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative advanced breast cancer: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Breakthrough progress has been made in Cyclin-Dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors when combined with endocrine therapy (ET) for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC). Though significant improvements of progression-free survival (PFS) for CDK4/6 inhibitors were demonstrated, however, the results of overall survival (OS) profile were not consistent. This study is conducted to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of CDK4/6 inhibitors for HR+ /HER2- ABC, and explore the prefer population through subgroup analysis.

METHOD

We identified relevant randomized controlled trials that compared CDK4/6 inhibitors plus ET to ET alone in HR+ /HER2- ABC. We calculated the hazard ratios (HRs) for PFS and OS, and risk ratios (RRs) for objective response rate (ORR), clinical benefit rate (CBR), adverse events (AEs). Statistical analysis was performed with the random-effects model.

RESULT

Eight trials and 4580 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Compared to ET alone, CDK4/6 inhibitors plus ET not only produced a significantly longer PFS (HR = 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50-0.59, p < 0.00001), but also manifested an extension of OS (HR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.67-0.93, p = 0.004) for HR+ /HER2- ABC. Similarly, the benefit was also manifested in ORR (RR = 1.47, 95% CI 1.30-1.67, p < 0.00001) and CBR (RR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.12-1.30, p < 0.00001). The improvements of PFS were observed in the combined treatment group as both the first-line (HR = 0.56) and the second-line therapy (HR = 0.53), and irrespective of menopausal status, the presence of visceral metastasis, previous treatment with chemotherapy, their race or age. Nevertheless, more hematologic and gastrointestinal adverse events were observed with CDK4/6 inhibitors. The most common Grade 3-4 AEs is neutropenia (RR 31.95).

CONCLUSION

Significant advantages of PFS and OS were observed for CDK4/6 inhibitors in HR+/HER2- ABC. Furthermore, the benefit of PFS was across all subgroups. Though associated with an increased occurrence of AEs, most of which are reversible, manageable, and acceptable. Therefore, CDK4/6 inhibitors could be recommended as a preferred options for patients with HR+ /HER2- ABC.

Systemic treatment of hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor 2 negative metastatic breast cancer: retrospective analysis from Leeds Cancer Centre

Background

Study aimed to characterise treatment and outcomes for patients with hormone receptor positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor 2 negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) within a large regional cancer centre, as a benchmark for evaluating real-world impact of novel therapies.

Methods

Retrospective longitudinal cohort, using electronic patient records of adult females with a first diagnosis of HR+/HER2- MBC January 2012–March 2018.

Results

One hundred ninety-six women were identified with HR+/HER2- MBC. Median age was 67 years, 85.2% were post-menopausal and median time between primary diagnosis and metastasis was 5.4 years. Most (75.1%) patients received endocrine therapy as first line systemic treatment (1st LoT); use of 1st LoT chemotherapy halved between 2012 and 2017. Patients receiving 1st LoT chemotherapy were younger and more likely to have visceral metastasis (p < 0.01). Median OS was 29.5 months and significantly greater for patients with exclusively non-visceral metastasis (p < 0.01). The adjusted hazard ratio for death of patients with visceral (or CNS) metastasis was 1.91 relative to those with exclusively non-visceral metastasis.

Conclusions

Diverse endocrine therapies predominate as 1st LoT for patients with HR+/HER2- MBC, chemotherapy being associated with more aggressive disease in younger patients, emphasising the importance of using effective and tolerable therapies early.

Endocrine therapy for hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer: extending endocrine sensitivity

Targeted agents have significantly prolonged survival and improved response rates in first- and second-line settings of hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Optimal sequencing of the available options may prolong endocrine sensitivity, slow disease progression and delay the need for chemotherapy. However, the optimal treatment sequence remains unclear and therapeutic decisions are complex. We review the latest recommendations and supporting evidence for endocrine therapy in women with hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer and discuss strategies for the optimal sequential therapy in scenarios of response to endocrine therapy. Although more data are needed to define the best sequence of endocrine treatments, more personalized sequential strategies, which take into account response to previous treatments as well as disease symptoms and safety issues, will be increasingly feasible.

Treatment of Advanced Hormone Receptor-Positive (HR+) HER2-negative Breast Cancer

The article gives an overview of current treatment options for metastatic hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer. The focus is on combined therapies, e.g., with CDK4/6 inhibition compared with purely endocrine-based therapies in the pre- and postmenopause, presenting the latest study results. The addition of a CDK4/6 inhibitor to endocrine-based therapy with an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant leads to a marked improvement in progression-free survival and is independently beneficial whether palbociclib, ribociclib or abemaciclib is involved. The particular clinical status of inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases argues for its use in the first-line treatment of women with metastatic, hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer compared with the available purely endocrine-based therapies.

Palbociclib plus exemestane with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist versus capecitabine in premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (KCSG-BR15-10): a multicentre, open-label, randomised, phase 2 trial

BACKGROUND

Endocrine treatment is recommended by clinical guidelines as the preferred treatment option for premenopausal as well as postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. In real-world clinical practice, however, a substantial number of patients are treated with chemotherapy. We aimed to compare the clinical antitumour activity and safety of palbociclib plus endocrine therapy with that of capecitabine chemotherapy in premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.

METHODS

This multicentre, open-label, randomised, phase 2 study was done in 14 academic institutions in South Korea. Premenopausal women aged 19 years or older with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that had relapsed or progressed during previous tamoxifen therapy and with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-2 were included. One line of previous chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer was allowed. Patients were randomly assigned, using a random permuted block design (with a block size of two), to receive palbociclib plus combination endocrine therapy (oral exemestane 25 mg per day for 28 days and oral palbociclib 125 mg per day for 21 days every 4 weeks plus leuprolide 3·75 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks) or chemotherapy (oral capecitabine 1250 mg/m² twice daily for 2 weeks every 3 weeks). Randomisation was stratified by previous chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer and visceral metastasis. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival. All analyses were done in a modified intention-to-treat population that excluded patients who did not receive study medication. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02592746, and is ongoing for follow-up of overall survival.

FINDINGS

Between June 15, 2016, and Dec 10, 2018, 189 patients were enrolled, of whom 184 were randomly assigned to the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy group (n=92) or the capecitabine group (n=92). Six patients in the capecitabine group withdrew from the study before drug administration; therefore, 92 patients in the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy group and 86 patients in the capecitabine group were included in the modified intention-to-treat analyses. 46 (50%) of 92 patients in the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy group and 45 (51%) of 92 in the capecitabine group were treatment naive for metastatic breast cancer. During a median follow-up of 17 months (IQR 9-22), median progression-free survival was 20·1 months (95% CI 14·2-21·8) in the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy group versus 14·4 months (12·1-17·0) in the capecitabine group (hazard ratio 0·659 [95% CI 0·437-0·994], one-sided log-rank p=0·0235). Treatment-related grade 3 or worse neutropenia was more common in the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy group than in the capecitabine group (69 [75%] of 92 vs 14 [16%] of 86 patients). 2 (2%) patients in the palbociclib plus endocrine therapy group and 15 (17%) patients in the capecitabine group had treatment-related serious adverse events. No treatment-related deaths occurred.

INTERPRETATION

Exemestane plus palbociclib with ovarian function suppression showed clinical benefit compared with capecitabine in terms of improved progression-free survival in premenopausal patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Palbociclib plus exemestane with ovarian suppression is an active treatment option in premenopausal patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer who have been pretreated with tamoxifen.

FUNDING

Pfizer, Shinpoong, and Daewoong Korea and Takeda.

Endocrine treatment versus chemotherapy in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative, metastatic breast cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although international guidelines support the administration of hormone therapies with or without targeted therapies in postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer, upfront use of chemotherapy remains common even in the absence of visceral crisis. Because first-line or second-line treatments, or both, based on chemotherapy and on hormone therapy have been scarcely investigated in head-to-head randomised controlled trials, we aimed to compare these two different approaches.

METHODS

We did a systematic review and network meta-analysis with a systematic literature search on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, Web of Science, and online archives of the most relevant international oncology conferences. We included all phase 2 and 3 randomised controlled trials investigating chemotherapy with or without targeted therapies and hormone therapies with or without targeted therapies as first-line or second-line treatments, or both, in postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer, published between Jan 1, 2000, and Dec 31, 2017. Additional recently published randomised controlled trials relevant to the topic were also subsequently added. No language restrictions were adopted for our search. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was done to compare hazard ratios (HRs) for progression-free survival (the primary outcome), and to compare odds ratios (ORs) for the proportion of patients achieving an overall response (the secondary outcome). All treatments were compared to anastrozole and to palbociclib plus letrozole. This study is registered in the Open Science Framework online public database, registration DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/496VR.

FINDINGS

We identified 2689 published results and 140 studies (comprising 50 029 patients) were included in the analysis. Palbociclib plus letrozole (HR 0·42; 95% credible interval [CrI] 0·25-0·70), ribociclib plus letrozole (0·43; 0·24-0·77), abemaciclib plus anastrozole or letrozole (0·42; 0·23-0·76), palbociclib plus fulvestrant (0·37; 0·23-0·59), ribociclib plus fulvestrant (0·48; 0·31-0·74), abemaciclib plus fulvestrant (0·44; 0·28-0·70), everolimus plus exemestane (0·42; 0·28-0·67), and, in patients with a PIK3CA mutation, alpelisib plus fulvestrant (0·39; 0·22-0·66), and several chemotherapy-based regimens, including anthracycline and taxane-containing regimens, were associated with better progression-free survival than was anastrozole alone. No chemotherapy or hormone therapy regimen was significantly better than palbociclib plus letrozole for progression-free survival. Paclitaxel plus bevacizumab was the only clinically relevant regimen that was significantly better than palbociclib plus letrozole in terms of the proportion of patients achieving an overall response (OR 8·95; 95% CrI 1·03-76·92).

INTERPRETATION

In the first-line or second-line setting, CDK4/6 inhibitors plus hormone therapies are better than standard hormone therapies in terms of progression-free survival. Moreover, no chemotherapy regimen with or without targeted therapy is significantly better than CDK4/6 inhibitors plus hormone therapies in terms of progression-free survival. Our data support treatment guideline recommendations involving the new combinations of hormone therapies plus targeted therapies as first-line or second-line treatments, or in both settings, in women with hormone-receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.

FUNDING

None.

Clinical considerations of the role of palbociclib in the management of advanced breast cancer patients with and without visceral metastases

Background

This report assesses the efficacy and safety of palbociclib plus endocrine therapy (ET) in women with hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative advanced breast cancer (ABC) with or without visceral metastases.

Patients and methods

Pre- and postmenopausal women with disease progression following prior ET (PALOMA-3; N = 521) and postmenopausal women untreated for ABC (PALOMA-2; N = 666) were randomized 2 : 1 to ET (fulvestrant or letrozole, respectively) plus palbociclib or placebo. Progression-free survival (PFS), safety, and patient-reported quality of life (QoL) were evaluated by prior treatment and visceral involvement.

Results

Visceral metastases incidence was higher in patients with prior resistance to ET (58.3%, PALOMA-3) than in patients naive to ET in the ABC setting (48.6%, PALOMA-2). In patients with prior resistance to ET and visceral metastases, median PFS (mPFS) was 9.2 months with palbociclib plus fulvestrant versus 3.4 months with placebo plus fulvestrant [hazard ratio (HR), 0.47; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.35–0.61], and objective response rate (ORR) was 28.0% versus 6.7%, respectively. In patients with nonvisceral metastases, mPFS was 16.6 versus 7.3 months, HR 0.53; 95% CI 0.36–0.77. In patients with visceral disease and naive to ET in the advanced disease setting, mPFS was 19.3 months with palbociclib plus letrozole versus 12.9 months with placebo plus letrozole (HR 0.63; 95% CI 0.47–0.85); ORR was 55.1% versus 40.0%; in patients with nonvisceral disease, mPFS was not reached with palbociclib plus letrozole versus 16.8 months with placebo plus letrozole (HR 0.50; 95% CI 0.36–0.70). In patients with prior resistance to ET with visceral metastases, palbociclib plus fulvestrant significantly delayed deterioration of QoL versus placebo plus fulvestrant, whereas patient-reported QoL was maintained with palbociclib plus letrozole in patients naive to endocrine-based therapy for ABC.

Conclusions

Palbociclib plus ET prolonged mPFS in patients with visceral metastases, increased ORRs, and in patients previously treated for ABC, delayed QoL deterioration, presenting a standard treatment option among patients with visceral metastases amenable to endocrine-based therapy.

Clinical trial registration

NCT01942135, NCT01740427

Treatment after Progression on Fulvestrant among Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients in Clinical Practice: a Multicenter, Retrospective Study

Fulvestrant (Ful) is an effective and widely used agent for first- and second-line treatment of hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-negative (HR+/HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC). However, there is no evidence of treatment after progression on Ful. Our study aimed to investigate the profile of daily practice regarding therapy after Ful. A consecutive series of 131 HR+, HER2- MBC patients who failed Ful 500 mg as first-line or second-line therapy from June 2014 to June 2017 in 6 institutions were included and analysed. Among 131 patients who failed Ful with similar baseline characteristics, 31 (23.7%) received endocrine therapy (ET), and 100 (76.3%) were treated with chemotherapy (CT). The most frequently applied CT regimen was capecitabine (32%), and the ET regimen was exemestane + everolimus (35.5%). Multivariate analysis showed that patients with bone-only metastasis were associated with lower CT use (OR = 7.97, 95% CI 1.51-41.84, P = 0.01). Among patients who received CT and ET as subsequent treatments, the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 7.5 months (95% CI 6.2-8.8) and 6.0 months (95% CI 4.1-7.9), respectively (p = 0.03). Among patients who were resistant to Ful (PFS < 6 months), the PFS on CT was significantly longer than that on ET (7.1 months vs 3.9 months, p = 0.024, HR = 0.5, 95% CI 0.26-0.97); however, among patients with a PFS ≥6 months on Ful, the efficacy of CT and ET was similar. Additionally, among patients with an older age, bone-only metastasis and ≥3 metastatic sites, no significant difference was observed between the CT and ET groups. Moreover, ET was much more tolerated than CT in terms of the incidence of grade 3/4 toxicities (9.6% vs 27%, P < 0.05). Median overall survival (OS) was not reached. Thus, our findings reveal the pattern of post-Ful treatment in current clinical practice and provide evidence on the efficacy, safety and choice of these treatments.

Epidemiological characteristics, clinical outcomes and management patterns of metastatic breast cancer patients in routine clinical care settings of Greece: Results from the EMERGE multicenter retrospective chart review study

BACKGROUND

The "EMERGE" study, aimed to capture real-life management patterns and outcomes in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) in Greece, also accounting for hormone (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status.

METHODS

"EMERGE" was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of adult MBC patients diagnosed between 01-Janaury-2010 and 30-June-2012, either de novo or having progressed from a non-metastatic state. Patient data, including treatment patterns and outcomes, were mainly abstracted through medical chart review.

RESULTS

386 patients were enrolled by 16 hospital-based oncologists between 12-March-2013 and 31-March-2015. The median look-back period was 29.1 months. At MBC diagnosis, 56.1% of the patients were HR⁺/HER2^-, 16.6% HR⁺/HER2⁺, 14.5% HR^-/HER2^-, and 12.8% HR^-/HER2⁺. In the first line setting, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and endocrine therapy were received by 76.7, 52.4, and 28.3% of the overall population, and by 66.5/36.2/42.0%, 80.4/80.4/28.6%, 88.4/90.7/0.0, and 95.6%/56.5/6.5% of the HR⁺/HER2^-, HR⁺/HER2⁺, HR^-/HER2⁺, HR^-/HER2^- subpopulations, respectively. In the overall population, the disease progression incidence rate was 0.57 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.48-0.67] per person-year; median progression-free survival (PFS) was 22.4 (95% CI: 20.4-24.7) and overall survival (OS) was 45.0 (95% CI: 40.9-55.0) months. Median PFS was 24.6 (95% CI: 21.3-27.9) in HR⁺/HER2^-, 19.7 (95% CI: 12.9-25.9) in HR⁺/HER2⁺, 23.0 (95% CI: 16.6-29.7) in HR^-/HER2⁺ and 18.3 (95% CI: 10.0-24.7) months in HR^-/HER2^- subpopulations. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model, adjusted among other factors for age and duration of diagnosis, HR and HER2 status, demonstrated that in the overall population PFS was better among those receiving first line endocrine therapy (hazard ratio: 0.70; 95%CI: 0.51-0.95; p = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

"EMERGE" demonstrates differences between HR/HER2 subtypes in clinical outcomes and divergence from evidence-based guideline recommendations for MBC management, especially as it pertains to the HR⁺/HER2^- patients in which chemotherapy was favored over endocrine therapy in the first line setting.

STUDY REGISTRATION

The study has been registered on the electronic Registry of Non-Interventional Studies (RNIS) posted on the website of the Hellenic Association of Pharmaceutical Companies (SFEE): https://www.dilon.sfee.gr/studiesp_d.php?meleti_id=NIS-OGR-XXX-2012/1.

Does guideline non-adherence result in worse clinical outcomes for hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer in premenopausal women?: result of an institution database from South Korea

Background

In this study, we observe the patterns initial palliative treatment for premenopausal patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative MBC and determine if nonadherence to clinical guidelines are associated with worse clinical outcomes in terms of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in the South Korean population.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed for premenopausal patients diagnosed with HR-positive/HER2-negative MBC between October 1997 and May 2016 who received palliative systemic treatments at a large tertiary medical center. Survival outcomes were analyzed according to the palliative treatment received prior to disease progression.

Results

The review identified a total of 272 premenopausal patients meeting study criteria, whose median age was 39 years. Endocrine therapy was the initial treatment in 137 patients (Group 1) with chemotherapy as initial treatment in 135 patients. In the latter group, chemotherapy was continued in 78 patients (Group 2), whereas chemotherapy was switched to endocrine treatment in 57 patients prior to any disease progression (Group 3). Both PFS and OS were significantly longer for chemotherapy-endocrine therapy (median PFS 18.2 months and OS 85.2 months) than for chemotherapy-alone (median PFS 12.6 months and OS 45.5 months) or endocrine therapy-alone (median PFS 7.0 months and OS 57.3 months) (all p values < 0.01). In multivariate analysis, chemotherapy-endocrine therapy was an independent predictive value for improved PFS and OS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.33, 95% CI 0.20–0.52, p <  0.001; HR 0.38, 95% CI 0.19–0.73, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

In our study population, chemotherapy alone was not objectively inferior to endocrine therapy as the initial palliative treatment. In addition, chemotherapy followed by endocrine therapy was associated with objective higher response rate than endocrine therapy alone. Further studies should explore the relationship between non-adherent treatment patterns and patient outcomes across the largely premenopausal breast cancer populations across Asian countries.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-018-5258-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer patients: towards an expert consensus on nab-paclitaxel treatment in HER2-negative tumours-the MACBETH project

INTRODUCTION

Despite the large use of nab-paclitaxel as a treatment option in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) across different countries, no definitive data are available in particular clinical situations.

AREAS COVERED

Efficacy, safety and schedule issues concerning available literature on nab-paclitaxel in advanced breast cancer and in specific subgroups of patients have been discussed and voted during an International Expert Meeting. Ten expert specialists in oncology, with extensive clinical experience on Nab-P and publications in the field of MBC have been identified. Six scientific areas of interest have been covered, generating 13 specific Statements for Nab-P, after literature review. For efficacy issues, a summary of research quality was performed adopting the GRADE algorithm for evidence scoring. The panel members were invited to express their opinion on the statements, in case of disagreement all the controversial opinions and the relative motivations have been made public.

EXPERT OPINION

Consensus was reached in 30.8% of the Nab-P statements, mainly those regarding safety issues, whereas ones regarding efficacy and schedule still remain controversial areas, requiring further data originated by the literature.

Targeted Therapy for Premenopausal Women with HR+, HER2- Advanced Breast Cancer: Focus on Special Considerations and Latest Advances

The incidence of advanced breast cancer in premenopausal women is increasing, and breast cancer in younger women is often more aggressive and has a worse prognosis compared with breast cancer in older women. Premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR⁺) breast cancer are frequently under-represented in clinical trials, and treatment strategies in the premenopausal setting are usually extrapolated from data from postmenopausal patients, with the addition of ovarian function suppression to endocrine therapy in HR⁺ disease. However, the underlying biology of breast cancer in premenopausal women can be different from postmenopausal women, and treatment strategies should ideally be specifically tested in premenopausal patients. Recent phase III trials have now investigated cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors in premenopausal patients with HR⁺, HER2^- advanced breast cancer: Palbociclib and abemaciclib have been tested in a subset of premenopausal patients in the PALOMA-3 and MONARCH-2 studies, and ribociclib has been tested in the phase III MONALEESA-7 trial, which was entirely dedicated to premenopausal women. This comprehensive review summarizes the differences in the biology of HR⁺, HER2^- breast cancer in the premenopausal population compared with the postmenopausal population; discusses special considerations for treatment of premenopausal women; and reviews the evidence from clinical trials investigating endocrine therapy, other targeted treatments, and ovarian function suppression in the HR⁺, HER2^- advanced breast cancer setting. Clin Cancer Res; 24(21); 5206-18. ©2018 AACR.