Subtotal Colectomy for Colon Cancer Reduces the Need for Subsequent Surgery in Lynch Syndrome

Risk of metachronous colorectal cancer after surgical resection of index rectal cancer in Lynch syndrome: a multicenter retrospective study in Japan

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the risk of metachronous colorectal cancer (CRC) after resection of index (first) rectal cancer in patients with Lynch syndrome (LS).

METHODS

Clinicopathological data of patients with genetically proven LS were retrospectively analyzed in this multicenter Japanese study. The cumulative incidence of metachronous CRC and the overall survival were compared between patients with index rectal cancer (rectal group) and those with index colon cancer (colon group).

RESULTS

The median age at index CRC surgery was lower in the rectal group than in the colon group (37 vs. 46 years old, P = 0.01). The cumulative 5-, 10-, and 20-year incidences of metachronous CRC were 3.5%, 13.9%, and 21.1%, respectively, in the rectal cancer group and 14.9%, 22.0%, and 57.9%, respectively, in the colon cancer group (P = 0.02). The overall survival curves were not significantly different between two groups (P = 0.23).

CONCLUSION

This is the first report from an East Asian country to report the risk of metachronous CRC after resection of index rectal cancer in patients with LS. Despite this study having several limitations, we cannot recommend extended resection, such as total proctocolectomy, for index rectal cancer as a standard surgical treatment in patients with LS.

Risk of metachronous colorectal cancer after colectomy for first colon cancer in Lynch syndrome: multicenter retrospective study in Japan

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the risk of metachronous colorectal cancer (mCRC) and explored the optimal extent of colectomy in patients with Lynch syndrome (LS) and first colon cancer (fCC) in Japan, where the extent of colectomy for colon cancer (CC) is shorter than that in Western countries.

METHODS

The clinicopathologic and survival data of patients with LS who developed CC were collected from a nationwide database and analyzed retrospectively. The cumulative incidence of mCRC after actual segmental colectomy was compared with that of mCRC when more extensive colectomy was assumed.

RESULTS

There were 142 eligible patients (65 female). The median age at fCC surgery was 46.5 (range: 14-80) years. The cumulative incidence of 5-, 10-, and 20-year mCRC rate was 13.4%, 20.8%, and 53.6%, respectively. The incidence was higher in the left-sided group (splenic flexure to rectosigmoid colon, n = 54) than in the right-sided group (cecum to transvers colon, n = 88) (66.3% vs. 45.3% in 20 years, P < 0.01). Assuming that all patients would have undergone hemicolectomy or total colectomy, the estimated mCRC risk was 41.5% and 9.4% (P < 0.01, vs. actual procedures), respectively. The 20-year overall survival rate of all the patients was 83.3% without difference by fCC sidedness (P = 0.38).

CONCLUSIONS

To reduce the incidence of mCRC, patients with genetically diagnosed LS and fCC, preferentially located in the left-sided colon, may need to undergo more extended colectomy than that usually performed in Japan. However, such extended colectomy should be counterbalanced with favorable overall survival and actual risk of mCRC development.

Metachronous colorectal cancer risk according to Lynch syndrome pathogenic variant after extensive versus partial colectomy in the Netherlands: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Extensive colectomy (subtotal or total colectomy) is often advised for carriers of Lynch syndrome with colorectal cancer. However, the risk of metachronous colorectal cancer might differ by Lynch syndrome variant, meaning that partial colectomy, which has better functional outcomes, might be adequate for some patients with low-risk variants. We aimed to assess the risk of metachronous colorectal cancer after partial colectomy and extensive colectomy in carriers of Lynch syndrome with different pathogenic variants.

METHODS

For this retrospective cohort study, carriers of Lynch syndrome with colorectal cancer in the Netherlands were identified by linkage of the Dutch Foundation for the Detection of Hereditary Tumors (StOET) database and the Dutch Nationwide Network and Registry of Histopathology and Cytopathology (PALGA) database. Data on demographics, Lynch syndrome variants, colorectal cancers, surgery types, mortality, and surveillance colonoscopies were extracted. Data on colorectal cancer and surveillance colonoscopies were updated until Feb 28, 2022. Data on survival status was updated until Feb 7, 2022. MLH1, MSH2, and EPCAM were classified as high-risk variants and MSH6 and PMS2 as low-risk variants. Patients for whom the type of surgery was unknown were excluded. Cox regression time-to-event analyses were done to assess the risk of metachronous colorectal cancer in four subgroups based on pathogenic variant (high-risk vs low-risk variants) and the extent of surgery (extensive colectomy vs partial colectomy). Sex, age at the time of primary colorectal cancer, primary colorectal cancer stage, performance of surveillance colonoscopies, adherence to the surveillance guidelines, and time period of primary colorectal cancer diagnosis were added to the model as possible confounders. Metachronous colorectal cancer was defined as colorectal cancer diagnosed more than 6 months after the primary colorectal cancer. Patients were censored at time of death or assembly of the database.

FINDINGS

Of 1908 carriers of Lynch syndrome registered in StOET, 532 with a history of colorectal cancer were identified after linkage with PALGA. Five carriers were excluded because of an unknown surgery type, leaving 527 in our sample (mean age at primary colorectal cancer 48·7 years [SD 12·1]; 274 [52%] male and 253 [48%] female). 121 (23%) patients developed metachronous colorectal cancer (median time from primary colorectal cancer to metachronous colorectal cancer 11·0 years [IQR 2·1-17·8]). Metachronous colorectal cancer occurred in 12 (12%) of 97 patients with high-risk variants and extensive colectomy, in 85 (32%) of 267 patients with high-risk variants and partial colectomy, in zero (0%) of 11 patients with low-risk variants and extensive colectomy, and in 24 (16%) of 152 patients with low-risk variants and partial colectomy. Partial colectomy was associated with a higher risk of metachronous colorectal cancer than extensive colectomy in the high-risk variant group (hazard ratio 1·97, 95% CI 1·04-3·73; p=0·039). The risk of metachronous colorectal cancer did not differ between carriers of low-risk variants who had partial colectomy and those of high-risk variants who had extensive colectomy (1·14, 0·55-2·36; p=0·72).

INTERPRETATION

The risk of metachronous colorectal cancer after partial colectomy in carriers of low-risk variants is similar to the risk after extensive colectomy in carriers of high-risk variants. This finding suggests that partial colectomy followed by endoscopic surveillance is an appropriate management approach to treat colorectal cancer in carriers of low-risk Lynch syndrome variants.

FUNDING

None.

Delphi Initiative for Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer (DIRECt) International Management Guidelines

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients with early-onset colorectal cancer (eoCRC) are managed according to guidelines that are not age-specific. A multidisciplinary international group (DIRECt), composed of 69 experts, was convened to develop the first evidence-based consensus recommendations for eoCRC.

METHODS

After reviewing the published literature, a Delphi methodology was used to draft and respond to clinically relevant questions. Each statement underwent 3 rounds of voting and reached a consensus level of agreement of ≥80%.

RESULTS

The DIRECt group produced 31 statements in 7 areas of interest: diagnosis, risk factors, genetics, pathology-oncology, endoscopy, therapy, and supportive care. There was strong consensus that all individuals younger than 50 should undergo CRC risk stratification and prompt symptom assessment. All newly diagnosed eoCRC patients should receive germline genetic testing, ideally before surgery. On the basis of current evidence, endoscopic, surgical, and oncologic treatment of eoCRC should not differ from later-onset CRC, except for individuals with pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline variants. The evidence on chemotherapy is not sufficient to recommend changes to established therapeutic protocols. Fertility preservation and sexual health are important to address in eoCRC survivors. The DIRECt group highlighted areas with knowledge gaps that should be prioritized in future research efforts, including age at first screening for the general population, use of fecal immunochemical tests, chemotherapy, endoscopic therapy, and post-treatment surveillance for eoCRC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The DIRECt group produced the first consensus recommendations on eoCRC. All statements should be considered together with the accompanying comments and literature reviews. We highlighted areas where research should be prioritized. These guidelines represent a useful tool for clinicians caring for patients with eoCRC.

Current Surgical Concepts in Lynch Syndrome and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Background

Approximately 5% of colorectal cancers (CRCs) are associated with hereditary cancer syndromes. The natural history of these syndromes differs from sporadic cancers, and due to their increased risk of metachronous carcinomas, surgical approaches also differ. This review focuses on the current recommendations for surgical treatment and what evidence has led to these recommendations in the most clinically relevant hereditary CRC syndromes: Lynch syndrome (LS) and (attenuated) familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

Summary

LS has no common phenotype and is caused by individual germline variants in one of the mismatch repair genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, or PMS2). Because each gene is associated with a different risk of metachronous cancer, guidelines now differentiate between genes in their recommendations for oncology interventions. Classical and attenuated FAP are caused by germline mutations in the APC gene and have a characteristic phenotype. Although correlations exist between phenotype and genotype, the indication for surgery is predominantly based on clinical manifestation rather than specific gene mutations.

Key Message

Currently, the recommendation on the two diseases tends to go in opposite directions: while some forms of FAP may require less extensive surgery, in some LS patients, more sophisticated knowledge of metachronous carcinoma risk leads to more extensive surgery.

Systemic circulating microRNA landscape in Lynch syndrome

Circulating microRNAs (c-miRs) are small noncoding RNA molecules that migrate throughout the body and regulate gene expression. Global c-miR expression patterns (c-miRnomes) change with sporadic carcinogenesis and have predictive potential in early detection of cancers. However, there are no studies that have assessed whether c-miRnomes display similar potential in carriers of inherited pathogenic mismatch-repair gene variants (path_MMR), known as Lynch syndrome (LS), who are predisposed to highly increased cancer risk. Using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic approaches, we conducted an exploratory analysis to characterize systemic c-miRnomes of path_MMR carriers, sporadic rectal cancer patients and non-LS controls. We showed for the first time that cancer-free path_MMR carriers have a systemic c-miRnome of 40 differentially expressed c-miRs that can distinguish them from non-LS controls. The systemic c-miRnome of cancer-free path_MMR carriers also resembles the systemic c-miRnomes of cancer patients with or without path_MMR. Our pathway analysis linked the found differentially expressed c-miRs to carcinogenesis. A total of 508 putative target genes were identified for 32 out of 40 differentially expressed c-miRs, and 238 of them were enriched in cancer-related pathways. The most enriched c-miR-target genes include well-known oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes such as BCL2, AKT3, PIK3CA, KRAS, NRAS, CDKN1A and PIK3R1. Taken together, our findings suggest that LS and sporadic carcinogenesis share common biological pathways and alterations in these pathways can produce a c-miR signature which can track potential oncogenic stress in cancer-free path_MMR carriers. Therefore, c-miRs hold potential in monitoring the LS risk stratification patterns during clinical surveillance or cancer management.

Lynch Syndrome Genetics and Clinical Implications

Lynch syndrome (LS) is one of the most prevalent hereditary cancer syndromes in humans and accounts for some 3% of unselected patients with colorectal or endometrial cancer and 10%-15% of those with DNA mismatch repair-deficient tumors. Previous studies have established the genetic basis of LS predisposition, but there have been significant advances recently in the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of LS tumors, which has important implications in clinical management. At the same time, immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of advanced cancers with DNA mismatch repair defects. We aim to review the recent progress in the LS field and discuss how the accumulating epidemiologic, clinical, and molecular information has contributed to a more accurate and complete picture of LS, resulting in genotype- and immunologic subtype-specific strategies for surveillance, cancer prevention, and treatment.

Survival outcomes associated with Lynch syndrome colorectal cancer and metachronous rate after subtotal/total versus segmental colectomy: Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Lynch syndrome is associated with the most common form of heritable bowel cancer. There remains limited level 1 evidence on survival outcomes and rate of metachronous tumor associated with Lynch syndrome colorectal cancer.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of original studies was performed on Ovid searching MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, American College of Physicians ACP Journal Club, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects DARE, and Clinical Trials databases from inception of database to February 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting guideline was followed. The data were pooled using a random-effects model. All of the P values were 2-tailed, and statistical analysis was performed using RevMan v. 5.3 Cochrane Collaboration.

RESULTS

From 1,942 studies, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included for qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The five-year overall survival was 89.5% (82.0-94.1%), P < .01; I² = 89%. The ten-year overall survival was 80.5% (68.7-88.6%), P < .01; I² = 81%. The fifteen-year overall survival was 70% (33.7%-91.5%), P < .01; I² = 93%. Univariate meta-regression analysis showed no statistically significant difference in 5-year overall survival by sex, age, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, nor tumor location (right versus left colon). The metachronous tumor rate was 12% to 33% with a follow-up period of up to 15 years, significantly lower in patients who underwent subtotal/total colectomy (0-6%).

CONCLUSION

The overall survival of patients with colorectal cancer with Lynch syndrome was approximately 90% at 5 years, 80% at 10 years, and 70% at 15 years. The metachronous tumor rate was approximately 10% to 30% at up to 15 years, significantly improved by subtotal/total colectomy.

Risk of Metachronous Colorectal Cancer in Lynch Syndrome: Who Needs an Extended Resection?

Lynch syndrome (LS) is the most common genetic condition associated with early-onset colorectal cancer. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. The increased cancer risk is due to a germline mutation in one of the mismatch repair (MMR) genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2) or the EPCAM gene. This leads to a deficient DNA mismatch repair mechanism, resulting in the accumulation of nucleotide changes and microsatellite instability, providing phenotypical evidence that MMR is not functioning normally. LS is associated with a high risk of early-onset colorectal cancer and recurrence. Thus, when undergoing surgery for primary colorectal cancer, extended resection should be discussed with the patient. This review provides an overview of current surgical risk-reducing strategies in LS-associated colorectal cancer. Surgical treatment for LS carriers with colorectal cancer needs to be highly individualized, based on patient and disease characteristics. Strategies are presented to guide decision making in pathologic MMR gene mutation carriers undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer.

Lynch syndrome; towards more personalized management?

Lynch syndrome is the most common inherited cause of colorectal (lifetime risk up to 70%) and endometrial cancer. The diagnosis of Lynch syndrome facilitates preventive measures aimed at reducing the incidence and mortality of cancer. Colonoscopic surveillance for colorectal cancer, aspirin, and prophylactic hysterectomy and bilateral salpo-oopherectomy for endometrial and/or ovarian cancer have demonstrated to effectively reduce cancer mortality in this population. However, the lifetime risk of each cancer in people with Lynch syndrome is gene-specific and may be modified by environmental factors. Furthermore, the benefits of surveillance strategies need to be balanced against the risk of over-diagnosis and be supported by evidence of improved outcomes from cancer diagnosis in surveillance. Therefore, people with Lynch syndrome may benefit from a personalized management approach.

Interval between the First Cancer and the Genetic Diagnosis in Lynch Syndrome Probands

Objective Little is known about the time from developing a first cancer to confirming the presence of a mismatch repair (MMR) gene mutation for Lynch syndrome (LS) probands. Methods This was a retrospective single center study. LS probands, who have an MMR gene mutation that was confirmed first in a pedigree and thereafter developed at least one cancer, were included in this study. Results There were 21 LS probands who had developed at least one cancer; 6 with MLH1 mutations, 9 with MSH2 mutations, 4 with MSH6 mutations, and 2 with EPCAM deletions. The median ages at the first cancer and the genetic diagnosis were 47 (34-71) and 62 (38-84) years old, respectively. The mean interval between the first cancer and the genetic diagnosis was 11.0 (0-25) years, and 20 years or longer interval was required for the 5 probands. Six (28.6%) probands were older than 70 years, and 3 (14.3%) were in their 80s when they were diagnosed to have LS. The genetic diagnosis was confirmed at the first, second, third, and fourth cancer or later in 5, 5, 6, and 5 probands, respectively. Of the 16 cancers examined, 2 (12.5%) were microsatellite stable (MSS), both of whom had germline MSH6 mutations. All 17 LS probands who developed colorectal cancer met the revised Bethesda guidelines at the genetic diagnosis, but only 7 of 11 (63.6%) met them at the first cancer. Twelve out of 21 (57.1%) met the revised Amsterdam criteria. Conclusion It took 11 years for the LS probands from the first cancer to the diagnostic confirmation by genetic tests. A quarter of the probands were in their 70s or 80s at genetic diagnosis.

Rate of dissemination and prognosis in early and advanced stage colorectal cancer based on microsatellite instability status: systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

For the past two decades, microsatellite instability (MSI) has been reported as a robust clinical biomarker associated with survival advantage attributed to its immunogenicity. However, MSI is also associated with high-risk adverse pathological features (poorly differentiated, mucinous, signet cell, higher grade) and exhibits a double-edged sword phenomenon. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the rate of dissemination and the prognosis of early and advanced stage colorectal cancer based on MSI status.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of original studies was performed on Ovid searching MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, American College of Physicians ACP Journal Club, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects DARE, Clinical Trials databases from inception of database to June 2019. Colorectal cancer, microsatellite instability, genomic instability and DNA mismatch repair were used as key words or MeSH terms. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline was followed. Data were pooled using a random-effects model with odds ratio (OR) as the effect size. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan ver 5.3 Cochrane Collaboration.

RESULTS

From 5288 studies, 136 met the inclusion criteria (n = 92,035; MSI-H 11,746 (13%)). Overall, MSI-H was associated with improved OS (OR, 0.81; 95% CI 0.73-0.90), DFS (OR, 0.73; 95% CI 0.66-0.81) and DSS (OR, 0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90). Importantly, MSI-H had a protective effect against dissemination with a significantly lower rate of lymph node and distant metastases. By stage, the protective effect of MSI-H in terms of OS and DFS was observed clearly in stage II and stage III. Survival in stage I CRC was excellent irrespective of MSI status. In stage IV CRC, without immunotherapy, MSI-H was not associated with any survival benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

MSI-H CRC was associated with an overall survival benefit with a lower rate of dissemination. Survival benefit was clearly evident in both stage II and III CRC, but MSI-H was neither a robust prognostic marker in stage I nor stage IV CRC without immunotherapy.

European guidelines from the EHTG and ESCP for Lynch syndrome: an updated third edition of the Mallorca guidelines based on gene and gender

BACKGROUND

Lynch syndrome is the most common genetic predisposition for hereditary cancer but remains underdiagnosed. Large prospective observational studies have recently increased understanding of the effectiveness of colonoscopic surveillance and the heterogeneity of cancer risk between genotypes. The need for gene- and gender-specific guidelines has been acknowledged.

METHODS

The European Hereditary Tumour Group (EHTG) and European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) developed a multidisciplinary working group consisting of surgeons, clinical and molecular geneticists, pathologists, epidemiologists, gastroenterologists, and patient representation to conduct a graded evidence review. The previous Mallorca guideline format was used to revise the clinical guidance. Consensus for the guidance statements was acquired by three Delphi voting rounds.

RESULTS

Recommendations for clinical and molecular identification of Lynch syndrome, surgical and endoscopic management of Lynch syndrome-associated colorectal cancer, and preventive measures for cancer were produced. The emphasis was on surgical and gastroenterological aspects of the cancer spectrum. Manchester consensus guidelines for gynaecological management were endorsed. Executive and layperson summaries were provided.

CONCLUSION

The recommendations from the EHTG and ESCP for identification of patients with Lynch syndrome, colorectal surveillance, surgical management of colorectal cancer, lifestyle and chemoprevention in Lynch syndrome that reached a consensus (at least 80 per cent) are presented.

Uptake of hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy in carriers of pathogenic mismatch repair variants: a Prospective Lynch Syndrome Database report

Purpose:

This study aimed to report the uptake of hysterectomy and/or bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) to prevent gynaecological cancers (risk-reducing surgery [RRS]) in carriers of pathogenic MMR (path_MMR) variants.

Methods:

The Prospective Lynch Syndrome Database (PLSD) was used to investigate RRS by a cross-sectional study in 2292 female path_MMR carriers aged 30–69 years.

Results:

Overall, 144, 79, and 517 carriers underwent risk-reducing hysterectomy, BSO, or both combined, respectively. Two-thirds of procedures before 50 years of age were combined hysterectomy and BSO, and 81% of all procedures included BSO. Risk-reducing hysterectomy was performed before age 50 years in 28%, 25%, 15%, and 9%, and BSO in 26%, 25%, 14% and 13% of path_MLH1, path_MSH2, path_MSH6, and path_PMS2 carriers, respectively. Before 50 years of age, 107 of 188 (57%) BSO and 126 of 204 (62%) hysterectomies were performed in women without any prior cancer, and only 5% (20/392) were performed simultaneously with colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery.

Conclusion:

Uptake of RRS before 50 years of age was low, and RRS was rarely undertaken in association with surgical treatment of CRC. Uptake of RRS aligned poorly with gene- and age-associated risk estimates for endometrial or ovarian cancer that were published recently from PLSD and did not correspond well with current clinical guidelines. The reasons should be clarified. Decision-making on opting for or against RRS and its timing should be better aligned with predicted risk and mortality for endometrial and ovarian cancer in Lynch syndrome to improve outcomes.

Compliance with mismatch repair testing in pT1 colorectal cancer diagnosed before the age of 70 years

Mismatch repair (MMR) testing is recommended in the Netherlands for all patients under 70 years of age with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer (CRC) in order to identify Lynch syndrome. T1 CRC can be removed by local excision or oncological surgical resection. We evaluated the frequency of MMR testing in pT1 lesions within the Dutch CRC screening cohort. pT1 CRC diagnosed within the Dutch population-based screening program from 2016-2018 were identified by the Dutch pathology registry (PALGA). Pathology reports were evaluated, including registration of MMR testing (by immunohistochemistry and/or microsatellite instability PCR). Frequency of MMR testing was compared between pT1 tumors that were treated by local (endoscopic or transanal) excision and oncological surgical resections. A total of 3.692 pT1 CRCs were diagnosed (median age 63 years, 61.4% males). MMR testing was performed in 83% and uptake increased over time (71% in 2016 to 92% in 2018, p<0.01). MMR testing was significantly more often performed in younger patients and in academic hospitals. When pT1 CRC was treated by oncological surgical resection (n=1.132), MMR testing was performed in 89% of cases and was known prior to oncological resection in 51% of cases. MMR testing occurred significantly less often in case of local excision (80% of n=2.560) compared to oncological surgical resection (p<0.01). MMR testing was performed in 83% of T1 CRCs and uptake increased over time. MMR testing was more frequently performed in pT1 CRC resected by oncological surgical resection compared with local excision.

Comparison of long-term outcomes between Lynch sydrome and sporadic colorectal cancer: a propensity score matching analysis

Background

Lynch syndrome (LS) is the most common hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) syndrome. Comparison of prognosis between LS and sporadic CRC (SCRC) were rare, with conflicting results. This study aimed to compare the long-term outcomes between patients with LS and SCRC.

Methods

Between June 2008 and September 2018, a total of 47 patients were diagnosed with LS by genetic testing at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. A 1:2 propensity score matching was performed to obtain homogeneous cohorts from SCRC group. Thereafter, 94 SCRC patients were enrolled as control group. All of enrolled patients received curative surgeries and standardized postoperative monitoring. The long-term survival rates between the two groups were compared, and the prognostic factors were also analyzed.

Results

The 5-year overall survival rate of LS group was 97.6%, which was significantly higher than of 82.6% for SCRC group (χ² = 4.745, p = 0.029). The 5-year recurrence free survival rate showed no significant differences between the two groups (78.0% for LS group vs. 70.6% for SCRC patients; χ² = 1.260, p = 0.262). The 5-year tumor free survival rates in LS group was 62.1% for LS patients, which were significantly lower than of 70.6% for SCRC group (χ² = 4.258, p = 0.039). Subgroup analysis of recurrent patients show that the LS group had longer overall survival than the SCRC group after combined chemotherapy. By multivariate analysis, we found that tumor recurrence of primary CRC [Risk ratio (95% (confidence interval): 48.917(9.866–242.539); p < 0.001] and late TNM staging [Risk ratio (95% (confidence interval): 2.968(1.478–5.964); p = 0.002] were independent risk factors for OS.

Conclusion

LS patients have better long-term survival prognosis than SCRC patients, even though the two groups have statistically comparable recurrence free survival. Combined chemotherapy is an effective treatment for LS patients who developed primary CRC recurrence. Standardized postoperative monitoring for LS patients may enable detection of metachronous tumors at earlier stages, which was a guarantee of a favorable prognosis despite lower tumor free survival.

Assessing Effectiveness of Colonic and Gynecological Risk Reducing Surgery in Lynch Syndrome Individuals

Simple Summary

Colorectal and endometrial cancers are the most important life-threating risk in Lynch syndrome subjects, with incidences at 75 years as high as 40–60%. However, surveillance has shown to be ineffective. Risk reducing surgeries are an option in Lynch Syndrome (LS) individuals to decrease incidence of this type of cancers. In this manuscript, we have analyzed the rates of colorectal and gynecological cancer in 976 LS individuals after a mean follow-up of 10.2 years (patients under regular surveillance or after a risk reducing surgery). We can confirm in the largest study published up to the present in a single-institution that risk reducing surgeries are effective in decreasing incidence of colorectal and gynecological cancer in all LS carriers. Moreover, is the first report showing a decrease in all-cause mortality cumulative incidence in females with Lynch syndrome that undergo gynecological risk reducing surgery.

Abstract

Background: Colorectal (CRC) and endometrial cancer (EC) are the most common types of cancer in Lynch syndrome (LS). Risk reducing surgeries (RRS) might impact cancer incidence and mortality. Our objectives were to evaluate cumulative incidences of CRC, gynecological cancer and all-cause mortality after RRS in LS individuals. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 976 LS carriers from a single-institution registry. Primary endpoints were cumulative incidence at 75 years of cancer (metachronous CRC in 425 individuals; EC and ovarian cancer (OC) in 531 individuals) and all-cause mortality cumulative incidence, comparing extended (ES) vs. segmental surgery (SS) in the CRC cohort and risk reducing gynecological surgery (RRGS) vs. surveillance in the gynecological cohort. Results: Cumulative incidence at 75 years of metachronous CRC was 12.5% vs. 44.7% (p = 0.04) and all-cause mortality cumulative incidence was 38.6% vs. 55.3% (p = 0.31), for ES and SS, respectively. Cumulative, incidence at 75 years was 11.2% vs. 46.3% for EC (p = 0.001) and 0% vs. 12.7% for OC (p N/A) and all-cause mortality cumulative incidence was 0% vs. 52.7% (p N/A), for RRGS vs. surveillance, respectively. Conclusions: RRS in LS reduces the incidence of metachronous CRC and gynecological neoplasms, also indicating a reduction in all-cause mortality cumulative incidence in females undergoing RRGS.

Prophylactic Gynecologic Surgery at Time of Colectomy Benefits Women with Lynch Syndrome and Colon Cancer: A Markov Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

BACKGROUND

Women with Lynch syndrome who have completed childbearing should be offered prophylactic hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for gynecologic cancer prevention. The benefit of prophylactic gynecologic surgery at the time of colon cancer resection is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the cost, quality of life, and likelihood of being alive and free from colon, endometrial, and ovarian cancer between operative choices for patients with Lynch syndrome undergoing surgery for colon cancer.

DESIGN

A Markov decision tree spanning 40 years was constructed for a hypothetical cohort of 30-year-old women with Lynch syndrome who had been diagnosed with colon cancer. Outcomes of 6 surgical strategies were compared, including segmental or total abdominal colectomy with or without hysterectomy alone or combined with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.

SETTINGS

A Markov cost-effectiveness analysis was performed at a single center.

PATIENTS

A literature search was performed identifying studies of patients with genetically diagnosed Lynch syndrome that described cost, risk of mortality, and quality of life after colon cancer resection and prophylactic gynecologic surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were quality-adjusted life-years and the likelihood of being alive and free from colon, endometrial, and ovarian cancer 40 years after surgery.

RESULTS

Women with Lynch syndrome who underwent a total abdominal colectomy and hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy had the highest likelihood of being alive and cancer free. Total abdominal colectomy with hysterectomy was a close second, but yielded the largest amount of quality-adjusted life-years and lowest cost.

LIMITATIONS

This study is limited by the statistical method and quality of studies used.

CONCLUSIONS

Total abdominal colectomy with prophylactic hysterectomy at 30 years of age was the most cost-effective surgical choice in women with Lynch syndrome and colon cancer. The addition of bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy offered the highest event-free survival and lowest mortality. However, the additional morbidity of premature menopause of prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy for younger women outweighed the benefit of ovarian cancer prevention. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B287. LA CIRUGÍA GINECOLÓGICA PROFILÁCTICA EN EL MOMENTO DE LA COLECTOMÍA BENEFICIA A LAS MUJERES CON SÍNDROME DE LYNCH Y CÁNCER DE COLON: UN ANÁLISIS DE COSTO-EFECTIVIDAD DE MARKOV: Las mujeres con síndrome de Lynch que han completado la maternidad deberían recibir histerectomía profiláctica y salpingooforectomía bilateral para la prevención del cáncer ginecológico. El beneficio de la cirugía ginecológica profiláctica en el momento de la resección del cáncer de colon no está claro.Comparar el costo, la calidad de vida y la probabilidad de estar viva y libre de cáncer de colon, endometrio y ovario entre las opciones quirúrgicas para pacientes con síndrome de Lynch sometidos a cirugía por cáncer de colon.Se construyó un árbol de decisión de Markov que abarca cuarenta años para una cohorte hipotética de mujeres de 30 años con síndrome de Lynch diagnosticadas con cáncer de colon. Se compararon los resultados de seis estrategias quirúrgicas, incluida la colectomía abdominal segmentaria o total con o sin histerectomía sola o combinada con salpingooforectomía bilateral.Se realizó un análisis de costo-efectividad de Markov en un solo centro.se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica para identificar estudios de pacientes con síndrome de Lynch con diagnóstico genético que describieron el costo, el riesgo de mortalidad y la calidad de vida después de la resección del cáncer de colon y la cirugía ginecológica profiláctica.años de vida ajustados por calidad y probabilidad de estar vivo y libre de cáncer de colon, endometrio y ovario 40 años después de la cirugía.Las mujeres con síndrome de Lynch que se sometieron a una colectomía e histerectomía abdominal total con salpingooforectomía bilateral tuvieron la mayor probabilidad de estar vivas y libres de cáncer. La colectomía abdominal total con histerectomía fue un segundo lugar cercano, pero produjo la mayor cantidad de años de vida ajustados por calidad y el costo más bajo.Este estudio está limitado por el método estadístico y la calidad de los estudios utilizados.La colectomía abdominal total con histerectomía profiláctica a los 30 años fue la opción quirúrgica más rentable en mujeres con síndrome de Lynch y cáncer de colon. La adición de salpingooforectomía bilateral ofreció la mayor supervivencia libre de eventos y la menor mortalidad. Sin embargo, la morbilidad adicional de la menopausia prematura de la salpingooforectomía profiláctica para las mujeres más jóvenes superó el beneficio de la prevención del cáncer de ovario. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B287. (Traducción-Dr. Yesenia Rojas-Khalil).

Analysis of metachronous colorectal neoplasms and survival following segmental or extended resection in patients with hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer

PURPOSE

The high incidence of metachronous colorectal tumours in patients with hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) encourages extended resection (ER); however, the optimal surgical approach remains unclear. We evaluated the incidences of metachronous colorectal neoplasms following curative colorectal cancer segmental resection (SR) vs ER in patients with HNPCC and investigated patients' oncologic outcomes according to surgical modality and mismatch repair status.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated medical records of patients with HNPCC (per the Amsterdam II criteria) treated for primary colon cancer at our institution between 2001 and 2017. All patients underwent intensive endoscopic surveillance.

RESULTS

We included 87 patients (36 who underwent SR and 51 who underwent ER). The cumulative incidence of metachronous adenoma was higher in the SR group. One patient in the SR group (2.8%) and 3 in the ER group (5.9%) developed metachronous colon cancer; the difference was not significant (P = 0.693). Four patients in the SR group (11.1%) and 1 in the ER group (2.0%) developed distant recurrences; again, the difference was not significant (P = 0.155). Moreover, no significant differences were observed in the 5-year overall survival rates of patients in the SR and ER groups (88.2% vs 95.5%, P = 0.446); the same was true for 5-year disease-free survival rates (79.5% vs 91.0%, P = 0.147).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of metachronous cancer was not significantly different between the ER and SR groups; however, that of cumulative metachronous adenoma was higher in the SR group. Hence, intensive surveillance colonoscopy may be sufficient for patients with HNPCC after non-extensive colon resection.

Analysis of morbidity and mortality, quality of life and bowel function after total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis versus right and left hemicolectomy: A study to optimise the treatment of lynch syndrome and attenuated polyposis coli

BACKGROUND

The optimal surgical treatment for colonic colorectal carcinoma (CRC) in Lynch Syndrome (LS) and attenuated polyposis coli (A-FAP phenotype) patients is still debated, since there is a high risk of metachronous colonic adenomas and carcinoma after primary surgery. The aim of this study was to compare surgical outcome, functional data, and Quality of Life (QoL) after total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (TC-IRA) compared to right (RH) or left hemicolectomy/sigmoidectomy (LH/SI).

METHODS

Patients who underwent TC-IRA (ileorectal anastomosis from 8 to 15 cm from the anal verge) for CRC and/or polyposis at our Surgical Department between 2001 and 2017 were included in the study group, and were matched one-to-one by baseline and clinical characteristics with a control group of RH and LH/SI. Morbidity and mortality data were collected (Clavien-Dindo classification). International validated questionnaires were used to investigate QoL and bowel function.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients were enrolled in each group. No differences were found on length of hospital stay, Clavien-Dindo grade III-IV complications and mortality (p > 0.05). TC-IRA showed a longer operative time than RH and LH/SI (p < 0.0001) and a major blood loss than RH (p < 0.0001). Worse bowel function and worse QoL, only for the bowel-related items, were recorded in TC-IRA group. The general QoL was similar among the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

TC-IRA and segmental resection have similar morbidity and mortality. The worse bowel function in TC-IRA group does not impact on the general QoL. These data can be useful in the setting of risk-reducing surgery decision in LS and A-FAP patients.

Risk factors for metachronous colorectal cancer in Lynch syndrome patients: a registry-based observational mono-institutional study cohort

BACKGROUND

Risk factors for metachronous colorectal cancer (mCRC) in Lynch Syndrome (LS) patients are essential for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment strategy to perform not only a curative but also preventive surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for mCRC development in LS patients to define the patient subset that may benefit an extended curative and preventive surgical resection.

METHODS

Patient's clinical history, oncological, molecular and follow-up were collected retrospectively from the Hereditary Digestive Tumors Registry at the National Cancer Institute of Milan. The age-related cumulative risk of mCRC was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Factors significantly associated with mCRC were analyzed with a Cox regression model. Overall and specific competitive risks were also calculated.

RESULTS

In a total of 1346 CRC patients, 159 (11.8%) developed a mCRC after a mean follow-up of 138 months from the primary tumor. The independent risk factors reported by a multivariate analysis were: pathogenetic variants in MLH1 and MSH2 (HR 2.96 and 1.91, respectively) and history of colorectal adenomas (HR 1.54); whereas female sex and extended surgery were protective (HR 0.59 and 0.79, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Among a high-risk population for CRC, in particular LS, an extended surgery may be considered in CRC patients with specific risk factors (MLH1 or MSH2 germline pathogenic variants, history of colorectal adenomas) to reduce the risk of mCRC development.

Guidelines for the management of hereditary colorectal cancer from the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG)/Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI)/United Kingdom Cancer Genetics Group (UKCGG)

Heritable factors account for approximately 35% of colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, and almost 30% of the population in the UK have a family history of CRC. The quantification of an individual's lifetime risk of gastrointestinal cancer may incorporate clinical and molecular data, and depends on accurate phenotypic assessment and genetic diagnosis. In turn this may facilitate targeted risk-reducing interventions, including endoscopic surveillance, preventative surgery and chemoprophylaxis, which provide opportunities for cancer prevention. This guideline is an update from the 2010 British Society of Gastroenterology/Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (BSG/ACPGBI) guidelines for colorectal screening and surveillance in moderate and high-risk groups; however, this guideline is concerned specifically with people who have increased lifetime risk of CRC due to hereditary factors, including those with Lynch syndrome, polyposis or a family history of CRC. On this occasion we invited the UK Cancer Genetics Group (UKCGG), a subgroup within the British Society of Genetic Medicine (BSGM), as a partner to BSG and ACPGBI in the multidisciplinary guideline development process. We also invited external review through the Delphi process by members of the public as well as the steering committees of the European Hereditary Tumour Group (EHTG) and the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE). A systematic review of 10 189 publications was undertaken to develop 67 evidence and expert opinion-based recommendations for the management of hereditary CRC risk. Ten research recommendations are also prioritised to inform clinical management of people at hereditary CRC risk.

Diagnosis and Management of Lynch Syndrome

A 56-year-old man with a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia was referred by gastroenterology for bleeding per rectum. Because of a family history of colon cancer, he had several prior colonoscopies, most recently 3 years ago, without evidence of pathology. His mother was diagnosed with colon cancer in her mid-40s. His current colonoscopy demonstrated a 2.4 × 1.5 cm cecal adenocarcinoma. Staging workup revealed no evidence of metastatic disease. Because of the patient's family history, the specimen was further evaluated and found to have high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). The patient was referred to a genetic counselor and found to have a germline pathogenic variant in MSH6 on gene panel testing. The patient did not have a family history of any extracolonic malignancies.The patient underwent an uncomplicated laparoscopic total abdominal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis, which revealed a T2N0Mx adenocarcinoma with abundant peritumoral lymphocytes. He was discharged on postoperative day 2, and recuperated appropriately from surgery. Follow-up surveillance proctoscopy showed no evidence of disease. His sole offspring, a 25-year-old man, was negative for a pathogenic variant in MSH6 and had no polyps on colonoscopy. His siblings did demonstrate a pathogenic variant in MSH6 and are currently opting for annual surveillance colonoscopy.

Total abdominal colectomy is cost-effective in treating colorectal cancer in patients with genetically diagnosed Lynch Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Lynch syndrome (LS) has a 80% lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer and metachronous cancer. No studies have examined the quality adjusted life expectancy after SEG or TAC for LS patients, which this study was aiming for. If TAC offers a higher quality adjusted life year (QALY) to SEG in LS patients, preoperative diagnosis of LS is critical as it alters the recommended surgical procedure.

METHODS

A Markov decision tree was constructed using Treeage software to compare QALY of LS patients following SEG or TAC. Probabilities, cost, and utility were obtained from literature. Cost-effectiveness analyses were performed.

RESULTS

TAC dominates SEG as both the life-saving and cost-saving strategy. TAC dominated SEG on QALY (17.80 vs 17.13 QALY) for a cohort of LS patients diagnosed at an average of 30 year old and followed every 2 years after initial surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that TAC as the primary surgical option for LS patients diagnosed with Stage I-III colon cancer is cost-effective. Further cost-effectiveness study is recommended to include extra-colonic malignancies in LS patients.