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Serra E, Abarzua-Araya Á, Arance A, Martin-Huertas R, Aya F, Olondo ML, Rizo-Potau D, Malvehy J, Puig S, Carrera C, Podlipnik S. Predictive and Prognostic Factors in Melanoma Central Nervous System Metastases-A Cohort Study. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2272. [PMID: 38927977 PMCID: PMC11201698 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is the cancer with the highest risk of dissemination to the central nervous system (CNS), one of the leading causes of mortality from this cancer. OBJECTIVE To identify patients at higher risk of developing CNS metastases and to evaluate associated prognostic factors. METHODS A cohort study (1998-2023) assessed patients who developed CNS melanoma metastases. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictive factors at melanoma diagnosis for CNS metastasis. Cox regression analysis evaluated the CNS-independent metastasis-related variables impacting survival. RESULTS Out of 4718 patients, 380 (8.05%) developed CNS metastases. Multivariate logistic regression showed that a higher Breslow index, mitotic rate ≥ 1 mm2, ulceration, and microscopic satellitosis were significant risk factors for CNS metastasis development. Higher patient age and the location of the primary tumor in the upper or lower extremities were protective factors. In survival analysis, post-CNS metastasis, symptomatic disease, prior non-CNS metastases, CNS debut with multiple metastases, elevated LDH levels, and leptomeningeal involvement correlated with poorer survival. CONCLUSION Predictive factors in the primary tumor independently associated with brain metastases include microscopic satellitosis, ulceration, higher Breslow index, and trunk location. Prognostic factors for lower survival in CNS disease include symptomatic disease, multiple CNS metastases, and previous metastases from different sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefania Serra
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Álvaro Abarzua-Araya
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
- Melanoma and Skin Cancer Unit, Dermatology Department, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8320165, Chile
| | - Ana Arance
- Oncology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (A.A.); (R.M.-H.)
| | - Roberto Martin-Huertas
- Oncology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (A.A.); (R.M.-H.)
| | - Francisco Aya
- Oncology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (A.A.); (R.M.-H.)
| | | | - Daniel Rizo-Potau
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Josep Malvehy
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomediques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER on Rare Disease, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Puig
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomediques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER on Rare Disease, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Carrera
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomediques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER on Rare Disease, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sebastian Podlipnik
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (E.S.); (Á.A.-A.); (D.R.-P.); (J.M.); (S.P.); (S.P.)
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomediques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Pellerino A, Davidson TM, Bellur SS, Ahluwalia MS, Tawbi H, Rudà R, Soffietti R. Prevention of Brain Metastases: A New Frontier. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2134. [PMID: 38893253 PMCID: PMC11171378 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the topic of prevention of brain metastases from the most frequent solid tumor types, i.e., lung cancer, breast cancer and melanoma. Within each tumor type, the risk of brain metastasis is related to disease status and molecular subtype (i.e., EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer, HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancer, BRAF and NRAF-mutant melanoma). Prophylactic cranial irradiation is the standard of care in patients in small cell lung cancer responsive to chemotherapy but at the price of late neurocognitive decline. More recently, several molecular agents with the capability to target molecular alterations driving tumor growth have proven as effective in the prevention of secondary relapse into the brain in clinical trials. This is the case for EGFR-mutant or ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer inhibitors, tucatinib and trastuzumab-deruxtecan for HER2-positive breast cancer and BRAF inhibitors for melanoma. The need for screening with an MRI in asymptomatic patients at risk of brain metastases is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Pellerino
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Tara Marie Davidson
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.M.D.); (H.T.)
| | - Shreyas S. Bellur
- Department of Medical Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute, Miami, FL 33176, USA; (S.S.B.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Manmeet S. Ahluwalia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute, Miami, FL 33176, USA; (S.S.B.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Hussein Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.M.D.); (H.T.)
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy;
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Neff C, Price M, Cioffi G, Liu Z, Walsh R, Barnholtz-Sloan JS, Walsh KM, Salama AKS, Anders CK, Fecci PE, Ostrom QT. Atopy improves survival and decreases risk of brain metastasis in cutaneous melanoma. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.05.15.24307061. [PMID: 38798534 PMCID: PMC11118623 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.15.24307061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Importance Development of new therapies in melanoma has increased survival, and as a result more patients are living to develop brain metastasis (BrM). Identifying patients at increased risk of BrM is therefore of significant public health importance. Objective To determine whether history of atopy is associated with improved survival or reduced incidence of BrM in cutaneous melanoma. Design A retrospective cohort study conducted from June 2022 to March 2024. Setting Population-based in states with Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) supported cancer registries. Participants Individuals (≥65 years) diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2017 that are participants in traditional Medicare. Exposures Individuals were compared that had history of atopy (allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, asthma, and/or allergic/atopic conjunctivitis) diagnosed prior to melanoma diagnosis, ascertained using ICD-9 or ICD-10 codes in Medicare claims. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary endpoints were diagnosis with a BrM or death during the follow-up period. Associations between atopy and endpoints were assessed using cox proportional hazards models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and p-values. Results A total of 29,956 cutaneous melanoma cases were identified (median age 76, 60% male and 97% non-Hispanic White). Overall, 7.1% developed BrM during follow up. Among the 35% that had history of atopy, the most common condition was atopic dermatitis (19%). After adjustment for demographic and prognostic factors, atopy was associated with a 16% decrease in death (HR=0.84 [95%CI:0.80-0.87], pFDR<0.001). Among those with non-metastatic disease at time of diagnosis, atopy conferred a 15% decrease in cumulative incidence BrM (HR=0.85 [95%CI: 0.76-0.94], pFDR=0.006), with a 25% decrease associated with atopic dermatitis (HR=0.75 [95%CI:0.65-0.86], pFDR<0.001). Among those with metastatic disease at diagnosis (any metastatic site), only those who received immune checkpoint inhibitors had a survival benefit associated with atopy (HR=0.31, [95%CI:0.15-0.64], p=0.001 vs HR=1.41, [95%CI:0.87-2.27], p=0.165). Conclusions and Relevance Atopy, particularly atopic dermatitis, was significantly associated with improved survival and decreased incidence of BrM. The improved survival associated with these conditions in the context of immunotherapy suggests that these conditions in the elderly may identify those with more robust immune function that may be more responsive to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey Neff
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mackenzie Price
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gino Cioffi
- Trans Divisional Research Program (TDRP) Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Rabina Walsh
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jill S. Barnholtz-Sloan
- Department of Biostatistics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for Biomedical Informatics & Information Technology (CBIIT), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kyle M. Walsh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - April K. S. Salama
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Carey K. Anders
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Peter E. Fecci
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Quinn T. Ostrom
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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Kalantari F, Mirshahvalad SA, Hoellwerth M, Schweighofer-Zwink G, Huber-Schönauer U, Hitzl W, Rendl G, Koelblinger P, Pirich C, Beheshti M. Prognostic Value of Baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT to Predict Brain Metastasis Development in Melanoma Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:127. [PMID: 38201554 PMCID: PMC10778001 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To investigate the value of 18F-FDG-PET/CT in predicting the occurrence of brain metastases in melanoma patients, in this retrospective study 201 consecutive patients with pathology-proven melanoma, between 2008 and 2021, were reviewed. Those who underwent 18F-FDG-PET/CT for initial staging were considered eligible. Baseline assessment included histopathology, 18F-FDG-PET/CT, and brain MRI. Also, all patients had serial follow-ups for diagnosing brain metastasis development. Baseline 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters were analysed using competing risk regression models to analyze their correlation with the occurrence of brain metastases. Overall, 159 patients entered the study. The median follow-up was six years. Among clinical variables, the initial M-stage and TNM-stage were significantly correlated with brain metastasis. Regarding 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters, regional metastatic lymph node uptake values, as well as prominent SULmax (pSULmax) and prominent SUVmean (pSUVmean), were significantly correlated with the outcome. Cumulative incidences were 10% (6.3-16%), 31% (24.4-38.9%), and 35.2% (28.5-43.5%) after 1, 5, and 10 years. There were significant correlations between pSULmax (p-value < 0.001) and pSULpeak (p-value < 0.001) and the occurrence of brain metastases. The higher these values, the sooner the patient developed brain metastases. Thus, baseline 18F-FDG-PET/CT may have the potential to predict brain metastasis in melanoma patients. Those with high total metabolic activity should undergo follow-up/complementary evaluations, such as brain MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forough Kalantari
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, 1461884513 Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Mirshahvalad
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
- Joint Department of Medical Imaging (University Medical Imaging Toronto (UMIT)), University Health Network, Mount Sinai Hospital–Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada
| | - Magdalena Hoellwerth
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (M.H.); (P.K.)
| | - Gregor Schweighofer-Zwink
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
| | - Ursula Huber-Schönauer
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Biostatistics and Publication of Clinical Trial Studies, Research and Innovation Management (RIM), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology & Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Gundula Rendl
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
| | - Peter Koelblinger
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (M.H.); (P.K.)
| | - Christian Pirich
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
| | - Mohsen Beheshti
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.K.); (S.A.M.); (G.S.-Z.); (U.H.-S.); (G.R.); (C.P.)
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Chen BT, Jin T, Ye N, Chen SW, Rockne RC, Yoon S, Mambetsariev I, Daniel E, Salgia R. Differential Distribution of Brain Metastases from Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Based on Mutation Status. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1057. [PMID: 37508989 PMCID: PMC10377121 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13071057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a high rate of brain metastasis. The purpose of this study was to assess the differential distribution of brain metastases from primary NSCLC based on mutation status. Brain MRI scans of patients with brain metastases from primary NSCLC were retrospectively analyzed. Brain metastatic tumors were grouped according to mutation status of their primary NSCLC and the neuroimaging features of these brain metastases were analyzed. A total of 110 patients with 1386 brain metastases from primary NSCLC were included in this study. Gray matter density at the tumor center peaked at ~0.6 for all mutations. The median depths of tumors were 7.9 mm, 8.7 mm and 9.1 mm for EGFR, ALK and KRAS mutation groups, respectively (p = 0.044). Brain metastases for the EGFR mutation-positive group were more frequently located in the left cerebellum, left cuneus, left precuneus and right precentral gyrus. In the ALK mutation-positive group, brain metastases were more frequently located in the right middle occipital gyrus, right posterior cingulate, right precuneus, right precentral gyrus and right parietal lobe. In the KRAS mutation-positive patient group, brain metastases were more frequently located in the posterior left cerebellum. Our study showed differential spatial distribution of brain metastases in patients with NSCLC according to their mutation status. Information regarding distribution of brain metastases is clinically relevant as it could be helpful to guide treatment planning for targeted therapy, and for predicting prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bihong T Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Taihao Jin
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Ningrong Ye
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Sean W Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Russell C Rockne
- Division of Mathematical Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Stephanie Yoon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Isa Mambetsariev
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Ebenezer Daniel
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Ravi Salgia
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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Burden and Risk Factors of Brain Metastases in Melanoma: A Systematic Literature Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246108. [PMID: 36551594 PMCID: PMC9777047 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma can frequently metastasize to the brain with severe consequences. However, variation of melanoma brain metastases (MBM) development among populations is not well studied, and underlying mechanisms and risk factors for MBM development are not consistently documented. We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) including a total of 39 articles to evaluate the proportion of melanoma patients who are diagnosed with, or develop, brain metastases, and summarize the risk factors of MBM. The average proportion of MBM was calculated and weighted by the sample size of each study. Meta-analyses were conducted for the selected risk factors using a random-effects model. The proportion of MBM at diagnosis was 33% (975 with MBM out of 2948 patients) among patients with cutaneous melanoma (excluding acral) and 23% (651/2875) among patients with cutaneous mixed with other types of melanoma. The proportion at diagnosis was lower among populations with mucosal (9/96, 9%) or uveal (4/184, 2%) melanoma and among populations outside the United States and Europe. Meta-analysis demonstrated that male vs. female gender and left-sided tumors vs. right-sided were significantly associated with increased risk of melanoma brain metastases. These data may help clinicians to assess an individual patient's risk of developing melanoma brain metastases.
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Johannet P, Simons M, Qian Y, Azmy N, Mehnert JM, Weber JS, Zhong J, Osman I. Risk and tropism of central nervous system (CNS) metastases in patients with stage II and III cutaneous melanoma. Cancer 2022; 128:3620-3629. [PMID: 36006879 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent data suggest that patients with stage III melanoma are at high risk for developing central nervous system (CNS) metastases. Because a subset of patients with stage II melanoma experiences worse survival outcomes than some patients with stage III disease, the authors investigated the risk of CNS metastasis in stage II melanoma to inform surveillance guidelines for this population. METHODS The authors examined clinicopathologic data prospectively collected from 1054 patients who had cutaneous melanoma. The χ2 test, the cumulative incidence, and Cox multivariable regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between baseline characteristics and the development of CNS metastases. RESULTS Patients with stage III melanoma had a higher rate of developing brain metastases than those with stage II melanoma (100 of 468 patients [21.4%] vs. 82 of 586 patients [14.0%], respectively; p = .002). However, patients who had stage IIC melanoma had a significantly higher rate of isolated first recurrences in the CNS compared with those who had stage III disease (12.1% vs. 3.6%; p = .002). The risk of ever developing brain metastases was similarly elevated for patients who had stage IIC disease (hazard ratio [HR], 3.16; 95% CI, 1.77-5.66), stage IIIB disease (HR, 2.83; 95% CI, 1.63-4.91), and stage IIIC disease (HR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.81-4.74), and the risk was highest in patients who had stage IIID disease (HR, 8.59; 95% CI: 4.11-17.97). CONCLUSIONS Patients with stage IIC melanoma are at elevated risk for first recurrence in the CNS. Surveillance strategies that incorporate serial neuroimaging should be considered for these individuals until more accurate predictive markers can be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Johannet
- Department of Medicine, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Morgan Simons
- Department of Medicine, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yingzhi Qian
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nadine Azmy
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Janice M Mehnert
- Department of Medicine, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Weber
- Department of Medicine, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Judy Zhong
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Iman Osman
- Department of Medicine, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.,Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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8
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Li AT, Miin Yip J, Choksi H, London K, Potter AJ, Lo SN, Saw RPM, Shannon KF, Pires da Silva I, Varey AHR, Menzies AM, Long GV, Shivalingam B, Scolyer RA, Thompson JF, Ch'ng S. Lack of association between anatomical sites of scalp melanomas and brain metastases does not support direct vascular spread. Melanoma Res 2022; 32:260-268. [PMID: 35579680 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Primary scalp melanomas are associated with a higher rate of brain metastasis than primary cutaneous melanomas occurring at other head and neck and body sites, but the reason is unclear. Spread to brain parenchyma via emissary veins draining from the scalp to dural sinuses has been suggested. We sought to examine the locations of metastases from primary scalp and nonscalp head and neck melanomas to determine whether there was anatomical evidence supporting direct venous spread to the brain. Data from patients who developed distant metastases from cutaneous head and neck melanomas (CHNMs) between 2000 and 2018 were analyzed. Anatomical sites of primary scalp melanomas and their respective intracranial metastases were compared. Times to first brain and nonbrain metastases were investigated for scalp and nonscalp primary CHNMs. Of 693 patients with CHNMs, 244 developed brain metastases: 109 (44.7%) had scalp primaries and 135 (55.3%) had nonscalp primaries. There was no significant association between anatomical sites of scalp primary melanomas and brain metastases (Cramer's V = 0.21; Chi-square P = 0.63). Compared with nonscalp CHNMs, scalp melanomas had no greater propensity for the brain as the first distant metastatic site ( P = 0.52) but had a shorter time to both brain metastasis (76.3 vs. 168.5 months; P < 0.001) and nonbrain metastasis (22.6 vs. 35.8 months; P < 0.001). No evidence was found to support a direct vascular pathway for metastatic spread of scalp melanomas to the brain. The increased incidence of brain metastases from scalp melanomas is probably driven by aggressive biological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Li
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
| | - Jia Miin Yip
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
| | - Harsham Choksi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
| | - Kevin London
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
- Alfred Nuclear Medicine and Ultrasound, Sydney
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead
| | - Alison J Potter
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- NSW Health Pathology
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney
| | - Serigne N Lo
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
| | - Robyn P M Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
| | - Kerwin F Shannon
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown
| | - Ines Pires da Silva
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown
| | - Alexander H R Varey
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead
| | - Alexander M Menzies
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
- Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgina V Long
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
- Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Brindha Shivalingam
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown
| | - Richard A Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
- NSW Health Pathology
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney
| | - John F Thompson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
| | - Sydney Ch'ng
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown
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9
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Jandova J, Park SL, Corenblum MJ, Madhavan L, Snell JA, Rounds L, Wondrak GT. Mefloquine induces ER stress and apoptosis in BRAFi-resistant A375-BRAF V600E /NRAS Q61K malignant melanoma cells targeting intracranial tumors in a bioluminescent murine model. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:603-614. [PMID: 35417045 PMCID: PMC9133119 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Molecularly targeted therapeutics have revolutionized the treatment of BRAFV600E -driven malignant melanoma, but the rapid development of resistance to BRAF kinase inhibitors (BRAFi) presents a significant obstacle. The use of clinical antimalarials for the investigational treatment of malignant melanoma has shown only moderate promise, attributed mostly to inhibition of lysosomal-autophagic adaptations of cancer cells, but identification of specific antimalarials displaying single-agent antimelanoma activity has remained elusive. Here, we have screened a focused library of clinically used artemisinin-combination therapeutic (ACT) antimalarials for the apoptotic elimination of cultured malignant melanoma cell lines, also examining feasibility of overcoming BRAFi-resistance comparing isogenic melanoma cells that differ only by NRAS mutational status (BRAFi-sensitive A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61 vs. BRAFi-resistant A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61K ). Among ACT antimalarials tested, mefloquine (MQ) was the only apoptogenic agent causing melanoma cell death at low micromolar concentrations. Comparative gene expression-array analysis (A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61 vs. A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61K ) revealed that MQ is a dual inducer of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and redox stress responses that precede MQ-induced loss of viability. ER-trackerTM DPX fluorescence imaging and electron microscopy indicated ER swelling, accompanied by rapid induction of ER stress signaling (phospho-eIF2α, XBP-1s, ATF4). Fluo-4 AM-fluorescence indicated the occurrence of cytosolic calcium overload observable within seconds of MQ exposure. In a bioluminescent murine model employing intracranial injection of A375-Luc2 (BRAFV600E /NRASQ61K ) cells, an oral MQ regimen efficiently antagonized brain tumor growth. Taken together, these data suggest that the clinical antimalarial MQ may be a valid candidate for drug repurposing aiming at chemotherapeutic elimination of malignant melanoma cells, even if metastasized to the brain and BRAFi-resistant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Jandova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Sophia L. Park
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Mandi J. Corenblum
- Department of Neurology, Evelyn F McKnight Brain Institute and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Lalitha Madhavan
- Department of Neurology, Evelyn F McKnight Brain Institute and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Jeremy A. Snell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Liliana Rounds
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Georg T. Wondrak
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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Melanoma Brain Metastases: An Update on the Use of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Molecularly Targeted Agents. Am J Clin Dermatol 2022; 23:523-545. [PMID: 35534670 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-022-00678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastases from melanoma are no longer uniformly associated with dismal outcomes. Impressive tumor tissue-based (craniotomy) translational research has consistently shown that distinct patient subgroups may have a favorable prognosis. This review provides a historical overview of the standard-of-care treatments until the early 2010s. It subsequently summarizes more recent advances in understanding the biology of melanoma brain metastases (MBMs) and treating patients with MBMs, mainly focusing upon prospective clinical trials of BRAF/MEK and PD-1/CTLA-4 inhibitors in patients with previously untreated MBMs. These additional systemic treatments have provided effective complementary treatment approaches and/or alternatives to radiation and craniotomy. The current role of radiation therapy, especially in conjunction with systemic therapies, is also discussed through the lens of various retrospective studies. The combined efficacy of systemic treatments with radiation has improved overall survival over the last 10 years and has sparked considerable research interest regarding optimal dosing and sequencing of radiation treatments with systemic treatments. Finally, the review describes ongoing clinical trials in patients with MBMs.
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11
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Guddati AK, Picon H. Analysis of Demographics and Outcomes of Surgical Resection in the Central Nervous System of Patients With Metastatic Melanoma. World J Oncol 2022; 12:225-231. [PMID: 35059082 PMCID: PMC8734505 DOI: 10.14740/wjon1408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with melanoma frequently develop central nervous system metastases. Oligometastatic disease is often treated either by surgical resection or by stereotactic radiotherapy. This study investigates the trends and clinical outcomes of patients with melanoma who have undergone surgical procedures on the central nervous system during their hospitalization. Methods A retrospective study was performed based on admissions of adult patients who underwent craniotomy for metastatic melanoma from 2000 to 2014 using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. The primary outcome measure was all-cause in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay (LOS) and discharge disposition (home/home with health care and skilled nursing facilities/long-term acute care (SNFs/LTAC)). Factors associated with in-hospital mortality were examined by multivariable logistic regression. We adjusted for patient and hospital characteristics, payer, and comorbid conditions. We also examined trends of mortality for the study years. Results There were an estimated 1,216 discharges of patients with melanoma undergoing craniotomy during the study period. Patients undergoing surgical interventions were typically males (69%) and whites (79%). Ninety-eight percent of procedures were performed at teaching hospitals. Unadjusted all-cause in-hospital mortality was 3.1%. There was no significant difference in mortality over 13 years. Age, gender, and race were not associated with increased in-hospital mortality. LOS was longer in elderly and those with higher Charlson Comorbidity Index. Of the survivors, 76% were discharged to home or with home healthcare while 24% were discharged to SNFs/LTAC. Patients with age > 65 (odds ratio (OR): 2.9; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.2 - 3.9, P < 0.001) and those with higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1 - 1.3) had higher odds for being discharged to SNFs/LTAC. Conclusions Patients who undergo craniotomy for metastatic melanoma have a low in-hospital mortality rate. One quarter of patients were discharged to SNFs/LTAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achuta Kumar Guddati
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Hector Picon
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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12
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Abstract
Imaging of brain metastases (BMs) has advanced greatly over the past decade. In this review, we discuss the main challenges that BMs pose in clinical practice and describe the role of imaging.Firstly, we describe the increased incidence of BMs of different primary tumours and the rationale for screening. A challenge lies in selecting the right patients for screening: not all cancer patients develop BMs in their disease course.Secondly, we discuss the imaging techniques to detect BMs. A three-dimensional (3D) T1W MRI sequence is the golden standard for BM detection, but additional anatomical (susceptibility weighted imaging, diffusion weighted imaging), functional (perfusion MRI) and metabolic (MR spectroscopy, positron emission tomography) information can help to differentiate BMs from other intracranial aetiologies.Thirdly, we describe the role of imaging before, during and after treatment of BMs. For surgical resection, imaging is used to select surgical patients, but also to assist intraoperatively (neuronavigation, fluorescence-guided surgery, ultrasound). For treatment planning of stereotactic radiosurgery, MRI is combined with CT. For surveillance after both local and systemic therapies, conventional MRI is used. However, advanced imaging is increasingly performed to distinguish true tumour progression from pseudoprogression.FInally, future perspectives are discussed, including radiomics, new biomarkers, new endogenous contrast agents and theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie H A E Derks
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid A M van der Veldt
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marion Smits
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Van Herck Y, Feyaerts A, Alibhai S, Papamichael D, Decoster L, Lambrechts Y, Pinchuk M, Bechter O, Herrera-Caceres J, Bibeau F, Desmedt C, Hatse S, Wildiers H. Is cancer biology different in older patients? THE LANCET HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2021; 2:e663-e677. [DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(21)00179-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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14
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Incidence and characteristics of metastatic intracranial lesions in stage III and IV melanoma: a single institute retrospective analysis. J Neurooncol 2021; 154:197-203. [PMID: 34351544 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03813-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The study aimed to describe the brain metastases (BM) incidence, at diagnosis and follow-up, in patients initially presenting with stage III or IV melanoma and characterize their metastatic brain lesions. We also sought to describe the association of common genetic mutations and immunotherapy with BM development in advanced melanoma. METHODS Using our institution's tumor registry, we identified patients with initial diagnoses of stage III and stage IV melanoma. In this cohort, we obtained BM incidence at diagnosis and follow-up, characterized the metastatic brain lesions and primary tumor's genetic profile. RESULTS During the follow-up period, 22.9% of patients with an initial diagnosis of stage III developed BM. In this cohort, the median time for BM occurrence was 20 months; [95% CI (14-29)]. Likewise, 37.7% of patients with Stage IV melanoma presented with BM at the time of diagnosis, and 22.7% of remaining patients developed BM at follow-up over a median duration of 6 months [95% CI (4-11)]. Therefore, suggesting an overall incidence of 51.9% in stage IV melanoma. Next, we observed that the incidence of BM development during the follow-up period significantly decreased from 2012 to 2017 (p < 0.001). Lastly, we found a significantly higher frequency of mutational BRAF in the primary tumor of patients with BM (68.7% vs. 31.2%; p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS While the overall incidence of BM remains high, the decreasing incidence of BM over the follow-up period is promising. Similar BM incidence in patients with an initial diagnosis of stage III or stage IV warrants appropriate imaging surveillance regimen for stage III patients.
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Makawita S, Tawbi HA. Nonsurgical Management of Melanoma Brain Metastasis: Current Therapeutics, Challenges, and Strategies for Progress. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2021; 41:79-90. [PMID: 34010041 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_321137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to provide an overview of nonsurgical treatment strategies for central nervous system metastases in melanoma as well as discuss treatment challenges and future directions. Recent strategies for melanoma brain metastases have involved proving the intracranial activity of approved therapies as well as identifying novel drug targets. BRAF/MEK combination therapy has intracranial activity in those with BRAF V600 mutations, though disease control is shorter for intracranial than extracranial metastases. Immunotherapy and combination immunotherapies have emerged as providing durable responses in melanoma, and newer studies combining immunotherapy with targeted therapies are emerging. Continued challenges include penetration through the blood-brain barrier and development of resistance mechanisms. Novel therapeutic targets and methods to improve central nervous system penetrance are being identified through the application of deep DNA- and RNA-sequencing analyses. Radiation therapy approaches, especially stereotactic radiosurgery in combination or in sequence with systemic therapies, are also being investigated. Both targeted therapies and immunotherapies have revolutionized the field of melanoma treatment. Multimodality approaches with multidisciplinary teams will pave the way for the future of central nervous system disease treatment in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Makawita
- Department of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Hussein A Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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16
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D'Andrea MA, Reddy GK. Brain Radiation Induced Extracranial Abscopal Effects in Metastatic Melanoma. Am J Clin Oncol 2021; 43:836-845. [PMID: 33044231 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Historically, the brain has been viewed as a specialized neurovascular inert organ with a distinctive immune privilege. Therefore, radiation-induced extracranial abscopal effects would be considered an unusual phenomenon due to the difficulty of the immunogenic signaling molecules to travel across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). However, it is now possible that localized central nervous system radiation has the ability to disrupt the structural integrity of the BBB and increase its endothelial permeability allowing the free passage of immunogenic responses between the intracranial and extracranial compartments. Thus, the nascent tumor-associated antigens produced by localized brain radiation can travel across the BBB into the rest of the body to modulate the immune system and induce extracranial abscopal effects. In clinical practice, localized brain radiation therapy-induced extracranial abscopal effects are a rarely seen phenomenon in metastatic melanoma and other advanced cancers. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of the current state of knowledge and clinical experience of central nervous system radiation-induced extracranial abscopal effects in patients with malignant melanoma. Emerging data from a small number of case reports and cohort studies of various malignancies has significantly altered our earlier understanding of this process by revealing that the brain is neither isolated nor passive in its interactions with the body's immune system. In addition, these studies provide clinical evidence that the brain is capable of interacting actively with the extracranial peripheral immune system. Thus, localized radiation treatment to 1 or more locations of brain metastases can induce extracranial abscopal responses. Collectively, these findings clearly demonstrate that localized brain radiation therapy-induced abscopal effects traverses the BBB and trigger tumor regression in the nonirradiated extracranial locations.
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17
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Trembath DG, Davis ES, Rao S, Bradler E, Saada AF, Midkiff BR, Snavely AC, Ewend MG, Collichio FA, Lee CB, Karachaliou GS, Ayvali F, Ollila DW, Krauze MT, Kirkwood JM, Vincent BG, Nikolaishvilli-Feinberg N, Moschos SJ. Brain Tumor Microenvironment and Angiogenesis in Melanoma Brain Metastases. Front Oncol 2021; 10:604213. [PMID: 33552976 PMCID: PMC7860978 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.604213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and hemorrhage are important prognostic factors in patients who have undergone craniotomy for melanoma brain metastases (MBM) before 2011 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). We have investigated the prognostic or predictive role of these histopathologic factors in a more contemporary craniotomy cohort from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH). We have also sought to understand better how various immune cell subsets, angiogenic factors, and blood vessels may be associated with clinical and radiographic features in MBM. METHODS Brain tumors from the UPMC and UNC-CH patient cohorts were (re)analyzed by standard histopathology, tumor tissue imaging, and gene expression profiling. Variables were associated with overall survival (OS) and radiographic features. RESULTS The patient subgroup with high TILs in craniotomy specimens and subsequent treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs, n=7) trended to have longer OS compared to the subgroup with high TILs and no treatment with ICIs (n=11, p=0.059). Bleeding was significantly associated with tumor volume before craniotomy, high melanoma-specific expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and high density of CD31+αSMA- blood vessels. Brain tumors with high versus low peritumoral edema before craniotomy had low (17%) versus high (41%) incidence of brisk TILs. Melanoma-specific expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was comparable to VEGF expression by TILs and was not associated with any particular prognostic, radiographic, or histopathologic features. A gene signature associated with gamma delta (gd) T cells was significantly higher in intracranial than same-patient extracranial metastases and primary melanoma. However, gdT cell density in MBM was not prognostic. CONCLUSIONS ICIs may provide greater clinical benefit in patients with brisk TILs in MBM. Intratumoral hemorrhage in brain metastases, a significant clinical problem, is not merely associated with tumor volume but also with underlying biology. bFGF may be an essential pathway to target. VEGF, a factor principally associated with peritumoral edema, is not only produced by melanoma cells but also by TILs. Therefore, suppressing low-grade peritumoral edema using corticosteroids may harm TIL function in 41% of cases. Ongoing clinical trials targeting VEGF in MBM may predict a lack of unfavorable impacts on TIL density and/or intratumoral hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri G. Trembath
- Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Eric S. Davis
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Shanti Rao
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Evan Bradler
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Angelica F. Saada
- State University of New York Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Bentley R. Midkiff
- Translational Pathology Laboratory, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Anna C. Snavely
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Matthew G. Ewend
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Frances A. Collichio
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Carrie B. Lee
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Georgia-Sofia Karachaliou
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Fatih Ayvali
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - David W. Ollila
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Surgery, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Michal T. Krauze
- Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - John M. Kirkwood
- Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Benjamin G. Vincent
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Nana Nikolaishvilli-Feinberg
- Translational Pathology Laboratory, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Stergios J. Moschos
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Li W, Xiao Y, Xu X, Zhang Y. A Novel Nomogram and Risk Classification System Predicting the Cancer-Specific Mortality of Patients with Initially Diagnosed Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2020; 28:3490-3500. [PMID: 33191484 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-020-09341-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous melanoma and distant organ metastasis has varying outcomes. Considering all prognostic indicators in a prediction model might assist in selecting cases who could benefit from a personalized therapy strategy. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop and validate a prognostic model for patients with metastatic melanoma. METHODS A total of 1535 cases diagnosed with metastatic cutaneous melanoma (stage IV) were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Patients were randomly divided into the training (n = 1023) and validation (n = 512) cohorts. A prognostic nomogram was established based predominantly on results from the competing-risk regression model for predicting cancer-specific death (CSD). The area under the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curves, and decision curve analyses (DCAs) were used to evaluate the nomogram. RESULTS No significant differences were observed in the clinical characteristics between the training and validation cohorts. In the training cohort, patient-, tumor-, and treatment-related predictors of CSD for metastatic melanoma included age, sex, race, marital status, insurance, American Joint Committee on Cancer T and N stage, number of metastatic organs, surgical treatment, and chemotherapy. All these factors were used for nomogram construction. The time-dependent AUC values of the training and validation cohorts suggested a favorable performance and discrimination of the nomogram. The 6-, 12-, and 18-month AUC values were 0.706, 0.700, and 0.706 in the training cohort, and 0.702, 0.670, and 0.656 in the validation cohort, respectively. The calibration curves for the probability of death at 6, 12, and 18 months showed acceptable agreement between the values predicted by the nomogram and the observed outcomes in both cohorts. DCA curves showed good positive net benefits in the prognostic model among most of the threshold probabilities at different time points (death at 6, 12, and 18 months). Based on the total nomogram scores of each case, all patients were divided into the low-risk (n = 511), intermediate-risk (n = 512), and high-risk (n = 512) groups, and the risk classification could identify cases with a high risk of death in both cohorts. CONCLUSIONS A predictive nomogram and a corresponding risk classification system for CSD in patients with metastatic melanoma were developed in this study, which may assist in patient counseling and in guiding clinical decision making for cases with metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuewen Xu
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yange Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Metastases to the central nervous system: Molecular basis and clinical considerations. J Neurol Sci 2020; 412:116755. [PMID: 32120132 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastatic tumors are the most common malignancies of the central nervous system (CNS) in adults. CNS metastases are associated with unfavorable prognosis, high morbidity and mortality. Lung cancer is the most common source of brain metastases, followed by breast cancer and melanoma. Rising incidence is primarily due to improvements in systemic control of primary malignancies, prolonged survival and advances in cancer detection. PURPOSE To provide an overview of the metastatic cascade and the role of angiogenesis, neuroinflammation, metabolic adaptations, and clinical details about brain metastases from different primary tumors. METHODS A review of the literature on brain metastases was conducted, focusing on the pathophysiology and clinical aspects of the disease. PubMed was used to search for relevant articles published from January 1975 through December 2019 using the keywords brain metabolism, brain metastasis, metastatic cascade, molecular mechanisms, incidence, risk factors, and prognosis. 146 articles met the criteria and were included in this review. DISCUSSION Some primary tumors have a higher tendency to metastasize to the CNS. Establishing a suitable metastatic microenvironment is important in maintaining tumor cell growth and survival. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a widely used tool for diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Available treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and systemic targeted therapies. CONCLUSIONS Prevention of metastases to the CNS remains a difficult challenge. Advances in screening of high-risk patients and future development of novel treatments may improve patient outcomes.
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Liu H, Xu YB, Guo CC, Li MX, Ji JL, Dong RR, Zhang LL, He XX. Predictive value of a nomogram for melanomas with brain metastases at initial diagnosis. Cancer Med 2019; 8:7577-7585. [PMID: 31657530 PMCID: PMC6912053 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimation of incidence and prognosis of melanomas with brain metastases (MBM) at initial diagnosis based on a large cohort is lacking in current research. This study aims to construct an effective prognostic nomogram for newly diagnosed MBM. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients diagnosed with melanomas from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program between 2010 and 2014 were enrolled in our study. Risk factors predicting brain metastases (BM) were identified using logistic regression analysis. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors of overall survival (OS). Nomogram for estimating 6-, 9-, and 12-month OS was established based on Cox regression analysis. The discriminative ability and calibration of the nomogram were tested using C statistics, calibration plots, and Kaplan-Meier curves. RESULTS Sixty-two thousand three hundred and sixty-nine melanoma patients were enrolled, including 928 with BM. Sex, marital status, insurance status, subsite, surgery of primary sites, radiation, chemotherapy, bone metastases, liver metastases, and lung metastases were associated with MBM at initial diagnosis. On multivariable Cox regression, the following eight variables were incorporated in the prediction of OS: age, unmarried status, absence of surgery to primary sites or unknown, absence of radiation or unknown, absence of chemotherapy or unknown, with bone metastases, with liver metastases, and with lung metastases. The nomogram showed good predictive ability as indicated by discriminative ability and calibration, with the C statistics of 0.716 (95% CI, 0.695-0.737). CONCLUSIONS The incidence and prognosis of MBM patients were well estimated in this study based on a large cohort. The nomogram performed well and could be a useful tool to predict prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan-Bo Xu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Department of Neurosurgical Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ming-Xin Li
- College of Medicine, Upstate Medical University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jia-Li Ji
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong-Rong Dong
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ling-Ling Zhang
- Department of Oncology, International Hospital of Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Xin He
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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21
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Incidence and prognosis of brain metastases in cutaneous melanoma patients: a population-based study. Melanoma Res 2019; 29:77-84. [PMID: 30379726 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastases (BM) from cutaneous melanoma are associated with poor prognosis. Population-based data describing the associated factors of incidence and prognosis of BM from melanoma are still lacking. We identified 121 255 melanoma patients diagnosed during 2010-2015 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program, and identified predictive factors for incidence and survival of BM patients by using multivariable logistic and Cox's proportional hazard regression, respectively. We identified 1547 patients with BM at the time of diagnosis of malignant cutaneous melanoma, representing 1.3% of the entire cohort and 35.4% of the subset with metastatic disease. The characteristics associated with higher BM incidence were male sex, age 40-60 years, melanoma location of face/head/neck, histologic type of nodular, higher T-stage, ulceration and extracranial metastases. The median overall survival and median cutaneous melanoma specific survival of patients with BM was 5 and 6 months, respectively. The relative factors of poor survival were older age and more extracranial metastatic sites. In summary, we provided insight into the epidemiology of BM from cutaneous melanoma. These results may provide significant help to improve the screening strategy of BM strategy and update the existing prognosis evaluation system.
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22
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Klapperich ME, Bowen GM, Grossman D. Current controversies in early-stage melanoma: Questions on management and surveillance. J Am Acad Dermatol 2019; 80:15-25. [PMID: 30553299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.03.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There are a number of controversies and uncertainties relating to the management and surveillance of patients with early-stage, localized (ie, stage 0, I, and II) cutaneous melanoma. While tumor stage is a critical predictor of clinical outcome and guides treatment, accurate determination of stage may be affected by the biopsy technique used and the method of sectioning before histologic review. A new molecular prognostic test is available but has not been formally incorporated into staging or treatment guidelines. There are no randomized controlled clinical trials to support guidelines for surveillance following the treatment of early-stage melanoma. In the second article in this continuing medical education series, we review the controversies and uncertainties relating to these issues. The questions we address are controversial because they speak to clinical scenarios for which there are no evidence-based guidelines or randomized clinical trials with the consequence of considerable variability in clinical practice. Our goal is to provide the clinician with up-to-date contextual knowledge to appreciate the multiple sides of each controversy and to suggest pathways to resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marki E Klapperich
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Glen M Bowen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Douglas Grossman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah.
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23
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Redmer T. Deciphering mechanisms of brain metastasis in melanoma - the gist of the matter. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:106. [PMID: 30053879 PMCID: PMC6064184 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0854-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis to distant organs and particularly the brain still represents the most serious obstacle in melanoma therapies. Melanoma cells acquire a phenotype to metastasize to the brain and successfully grow there through complex mechanisms determined by microenvironmental than rather genetic cues. There do appear to be some prerequisites, including the presence of oncogenic BRAF or NRAS mutations and a loss of PTEN. Further mediators of the brain metastatic phenotype appear to be the high activation of the PI3K/AKT or STAT3 pathway or high levels of PLEKHA5 and MMP2 in metastatic cells. A yet undefined subset of brain metastases exhibit a high level of expression of CD271 that is associated with stemness, migration and survival. Hence, CD271 expression may determine specific properties of brain metastatic melanoma cells. Environmental cues - in particular those provided by brain parenchymal cells such as astrocytes - seem to help specifically guide melanoma cells that express CCR4 or CD271, potential "homing receptors". Upon entering the brain, these cells interact with brain parenchyma cells and are thereby reprogrammed to adopt a neurological phenotype. Several lines of evidence suggest that current therapies may have a negative effect by activating a program that drives tumor cells toward stemness and metastasis. Yet significant improvements have expanded the therapeutic options for treating brain metastases from melanoma, by combining potent BRAF inhibitors such as dabrafenib with checkpoint inhibitors or stereotactic surgery. Further progress toward developing new therapeutic strategies will require a more profound understanding of the mechanisms that underlie brain metastasis in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torben Redmer
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany. .,Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
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24
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinhard Buettner
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Medical Center Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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