Treatment options for malignant pleural effusion

Efficacy and safety of intrapleural perfusion with hyperthermic chemotherapy for malignant pleural effusion: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrapleural perfusion with hyperthermic chemotherapy (IPHC) in treating malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journal Full-text Database (VP-CSJFD), and Wanfang database were searched by computer from database establishment to January 17, 2024. Relevant randomized controlled articles with IPHC as the observational group and intrapleural perfusion chemotherapy (IPC) as the control group for MPE were included. Then, the methodological quality of the included articles was evaluated and statistically analyzed using Stata 16.0.

RESULTS

Sixteen trials with 647 patients receiving IPHC and 661 patients receiving IPC were included. The meta-analysis found that MPE patients in the IPHC group had a more significant objective response rate [RR = 1.31, 95%CI (1.23, 1.38), P < 0.05] and life quality improvement rate [RR = 2.88, 95%CI (1.95, 4.24), P < 0.05] than those in the IPC group. IPHC and IPC for MPE patients had similar incidence rates of asthenia, thrombocytopenia, hepatic impairment, and leukopenia.

CONCLUSION

Compared with IPC, IPHC has a higher objective response rate without significantly increasing adverse reactions. Therefore, IPHC is effective and safe. However, this study is limited by the quality of the literature. Therefore, more high-quality, multi-center, large-sample, rigorously designed randomized controlled clinical studies are still needed for verification and evaluation.

Treatment of malignant pleural effusion in non-small cell lung cancer with VEGF-directed therapy

BACKGROUND

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a critical regulator of malignant pleural effusion (MPE) in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Bevacizumab (BEV) and apatinib (APA) are novel VEGF blockers that inhibit lung cancer cell proliferation and the development of pleural effusion.

METHODS

In this study, we established Lewis lung cancer (LLC) xenograft mouse models to compare the therapeutic effect of APA and BEV in combination with cisplatin (CDDP) against MPE. The anti-tumour and anti-angiogenic effects of this combination therapy were evaluated by ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT imaging, TUNEL assay and Immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The triple drug combination significantly prolonged the overall survival of the tumour-bearing mice by reducing MPE and glucose metabolism and was more effective in lowering VEGF/soluble VEGFR-2 levels in the serum and pleural exudates compared to either of the monotherapies. Furthermore, CDDP + APA + BEV promoted in vivo apoptosis and decreased microvessel density.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanistically, LLC-induced MPE was inhibited by targeting the VEGF-MEK/ERK pathways. Further studies are needed to establish the synergistic therapeutic effect of these drugs in NSCLC patients with MPE.KEY MESSAGESCombined treatment of MPE with apatinib, bevacizumab and cisplatin can prolong the survival time of mice, reduce the content of MPE, decrease the SUV_max of thoracic tumour tissue, down-regulate the content of VEGF and sVEGFR-2 in serum and pleural fluid, and promote the apoptosis of tumour cells. Angiogenesis and MPE formation can be inhibited by down-regulation of HIF-1α, VEGF, VEGFR-2, MEK1 and MMP-2 molecular signalling pathway proteins.

Albumin Paclitaxel Combined with Intrapleural Infusion of Bevacizumab + Lobaplatin for the Second-Line Treatment of Patients with Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Objective

To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of albumin paclitaxel combined with intrapleural bevacizumab + lobaplatin for patients with non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NS-NSCLC) with malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and analyze prognostic factors.

Methods

A total of 126 NS-NSCLC patients were included in the study. Control group with 64 cases received intrapleural infusion of lobaplatin + intravenous albumin paclitaxel, and treatment group with 62 cases received additional intrapleural bevacizumab perfusion. Analysis was performed by collecting data about MPE, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and scores of quality of life.

Results

In the treatment and control groups, objective response rate (ORR) was 51.6% and 31.3% (χ² = 5.39, P=0.02), and disease control rate (DCR) was 91.9% and 71.9% (χ² = 8.49, P=0.004), respectively. The main adverse reactions (≥grade 3) in the treatment group were thrombocytopenia, peripheral neurotoxicity, proteinuria, neutropenia, and nausea/vomiting, and in the control group, they were weakness, nausea/vomiting, anemia, and peripheral neurotoxicity. In the control and treatment groups, the median PFS was 6.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 5.86–6.56) and 5.1 (95% CI: 4.956–5.191), and the median OS was 14.4 (95% CI: 12.681–16.113) and 10.6 months (95% CI: 8.759–12.391). The score of quality of life for treated patients was significantly higher than those before treatment and the control group, and the parameters included general health status (GH), role physical (RP), body pain (BP), social function (SF), and vitality (VT); pH, CD4+/CD8+ values, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pleural effusion significantly affected the PFS and OS (P < 0.05). Bevacizumab administration in patients with bloody pleural effusion did not increase the risk of pleural hemorrhage.

Conclusion

The combination of albumin paclitaxel and intrapleural bevacizumab + lobaplatin is effective and may reverse the adverse events in patients with NS-NSCLC and MPE. The change of CD4+/CD8+ ratio before and after treatment is an independent and prognostic factor for patients with NS-NSCLC and MPE.

Clinical course of asymptomatic malignant pleural effusion in non-small cell lung cancer patients: A multicenter retrospective study

The British Thoracic Society guidelines recommend observation for patients with asymptomatic malignant pleural effusion (MPE). However, asymptomatic MPE can become symptomatic. This study examined the clinical course of asymptomatic MPE in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including the incidence and timing of symptom development of asymptomatic MPE and the associated factors.Retrospective data of 4822 NSCLC patients between January 2012 and December 2017 were reviewed. Symptom development of asymptomatic MPE was defined as the development of symptoms requiring additional treatment, such as insertion of a chest tube, within 1 year in patients who lacked MPE symptoms at the time of diagnosis. Clinical information, pathological parameters, and radiological characteristics were reviewed. Patient data up to 1 year from the initial diagnosis were reviewed.Of 113 patients with asymptomatic MPE, 46 (41%) became symptomatic within 1 year despite appropriate anticancer treatment. The median time to symptom development was 4 months, and 38 patients (83%) developed symptoms within 6 months. Multivariate logistic regression showed that female sex (odds ratio [OR], 0.256; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.101-0.649; P = .004) and the depth of pleural effusion on initial computed tomography (CT) (OR, 0.957; 95% CI, 0.932-0.982; P = .001) were independently associated with symptom development of asymptomatic MPE.A fraction of 41% of patients with asymptomatic MPE became symptomatic within 1 year. Female sex and larger MPE on initial CT were independently associated with symptom development of asymptomatic MPE.

Elevated Hsp90-beta contributes to differential diagnosis of pleural effusion caused by lung cancer and correlates with malignant biological behavior of lung cancer

Background

Hsp90-beta has been investigated to be correlated with the occurrence and development of tumor. The intention of this research was to test the level of Hsp90-beta in malignant pleural effusion (MPE) of patients with lung cancer and disclose the clinical significance of Hsp90-beta as a potential tumor marker for differential diagnosis of pleural effusion caused by lung cancer.

Methods

The level of Hsp90-beta was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Calculations of the Hsp90-beta threshold, the sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing MPE from benign pleural effusion were performed using receiver operator characteristic curve.

Results

The level of Hsp90-beta in MPE of lung cancer patients was higher than that in control individuals (P < 0.05) and increased MPE Hsp90-beta was correlated with the pathological differentiation, tumor size and lymphatic metastasis (P < 0.05). The cutoff value of Hsp90-beta produced by receiver operator characteristic curve for distinguishing lung cancer from control individuals were 1.659 ng/mL and the sensitivity and specificity were 93.46 and 79%.

Conclusions

Increased Hsp90-beta in MPE was correlated with malignant biological behavior of lung cancer patients, indicating that the level of Hsp90-beta could be a tool of referential value for differential diagnosis of pleural effusion caused by lung cancer.

The clinical efficacy and safety of paclitaxel combined with avastin for NSCLC patients diagnosed with malignant pleural effusion

OBJECTIVE

The current study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of paclitaxel combined with avastin for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients diagnosed with malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

METHOD

Total of 33 patients diagnosed with NSCLC as well as malignant pleural effusion were included. All of them received paclitaxel (175 mg/m2) and avastin (5 mg/kg). Clinical efficacy was evaluated using the total response rate, overall survival, progression-free survival and changes in MPE volume. Adverse events and rates of toxicities were examined as well.

RESULTS

The total response rate reached 77% while the overall survival and the median progression-free survival were respectively 22.2 months and 8.4 months. Toxicities of grade 3-4 consisted of neutropenia in 57% of patients, anemia in 17% of them, febrile neutropenia in 11%, as well as anorexia in 7%. No treatment-correlated deaths were found.

CONCLUSION

Paclitaxel combined with avastin decreased MPE volume and increased survival rate of NSCLC patients via inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor expression.

Tunneled pleural catheter use for pleural palliation does not increase infection rate in patients with treatment-related immunosuppression

PURPOSE

Concerns for infections resulting from antineoplastic therapy-associated immunosuppression may deter referral for symptom palliation with a tunneled pleural catheter (TPC) in patients with malignant/para-malignant pleural effusions (MPE/PMPE). While rates of TPC-related infections range from 1 to 21%, those in patients receiving antineoplastic therapy with correlation to immune status has not been established. We aimed to assess TPC-related infection rates in patients on antineoplastic therapy, determine relation to immune system competency, and assess impact on the patient.

METHODS

Patients with a MPE/PMPE undergoing TPC management associated with antineoplastic therapy, from 2008 to 2016, were reviewed and categorized into those with an immunocompromised versus immunocompetent immune status.

RESULTS

Of the 150 patients, a TPC-related infection developed in 13 (9%): pleural space in 11 (7%) and superficial in 2 (1%). Ninety-three percent (139/150) were identified to be immunocompromised during their antineoplastic therapy. No difference in TPC-related infections was seen in patients with an immunocompromised (9%, 12/139) versus immunocompetent status (9%, 1/11); p = 0.614. The presence of a catheter-related infection did not negatively impact overall survival over a median follow-up of 144 days (interquartile range 41-341); p = 0.740.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that antineoplastic therapy may not significantly increase the overall risk of TPC-related infections, as the rate remains low and comparable to rates in patients not undergoing antineoplastic therapy. Regardless of immune status, the presence of a catheter-related infection did not negatively impact overall survival. These results should reassure clinicians that the need to initiate antineoplastic therapy should not delay definitive pleural palliation with a TPC.

Addition of bevacizumab for malignant pleural effusion as the manifestation of acquired EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC patients

This study aimed to investigate the role of bevacizumab in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who had developed acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs therapy that manifested as malignant pleural effusion (MPE). In total, 86 patients were included. 47 patients received bevacizumab plus continued EGFR-TKIs and 39 patients received bevacizumab plus chemotherapy. The curative efficacy rate for MPE in bevacizumab plus EGFR-TKIs group was significantly higher than that in bevacizumab plus chemotherapy group (89.4% vs. 64.1%, respectively; P = 0.005). Patients in bevacizumab plus EGFR-TKIs group had longer progression-free survival (PFS) than those in bevacizumab plus chemotherapy group (median PFS 6.3 vs. 4.8 months, P = 0.042). While patients with acquired T790M mutation in bevacizumab plus EGFR-TKIs group had a significantly longer PFS than those in bevacizumab plus chemotherapy group (median PFS 6.9 vs. 4.6 months, P = 0.022), patients with negative T790M had similar PFS (median PFS 6.1 vs. 5.5 months, P = 0.588). Overall survival (OS) was similar between two groups (P = 0.480). In multivariate analysis, curative efficacy was an independent prognostic factor (HR 0.275, P = 0.047). In conclusion bevacizumab plus EGFR-TKIs could be a valuable treatment for NSCLC patients presenting with MPE upon resistant to EGFR-TKIs therapy, especially for those with acquired T790M mutation.

Reactive oxygen species modulator 1, a novel protein, combined with carcinoembryonic antigen in differentiating malignant from benign pleural effusion

The differential diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion and benign pleural effusion remains a clinical problem. Reactive oxygen species modulator 1 is a novel protein overexpressed in various human tumors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of joint detection of reactive oxygen species modulator 1 and carcinoembryonic antigen in the differential diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion and benign pleural effusion. One hundred two consecutive patients with pleural effusion (including 52 malignant pleural effusion and 50 benign pleural effusion) were registered in this study. Levels of reactive oxygen species modulator 1 and carcinoembryonic antigen were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and radioimmunoassay, respectively. Results showed that the concentrations of reactive oxygen species modulator 1 both in pleural fluid and serum of patients with malignant pleural effusion were significantly higher than those of benign pleural effusion (both p < 0.05). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of pleural fluid reactive oxygen species modulator 1 were 61.54% and 82.00%, respectively, with the optimized cutoff value of 589.70 pg/mL. However, the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of serum reactive oxygen species modulator 1 were only 41.38% and 86.21%, respectively, with the cutoff value of 27.22 ng/mL, indicating that serum reactive oxygen species modulator 1 may not be a good option in the differential diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion and benign pleural effusion. The sensitivity and specificity of pleural fluid carcinoembryonic antigen were 69.23% and 88.00%, respectively, at the cutoff value of 3.05 ng/mL, while serum carcinoembryonic antigen were 80.77% and 72.00% at the cutoff value of 2.60 ng/mL. The sensitivity could be raised to 88.17% in parallel detection of plural fluid reactive oxygen species modulator 1 and carcinoembryonic antigen concentration, and the specificity could be improved to 97.84% in serial detection.

Combination use of paclitaxel and avastin enhances treatment effect for the NSCLC patients with malignant pleural effusion

The current study is conducted to investigate efficacy of the chemotherapy drug paclitaxel in combination with Avastin (Roche Diagnostics GmbH., Mannheim, Germany) (antiangiogenic agent) in treatment of malignant pleural effusions (MPEs).Twenty-four patients with non-small cell lung cancer were randomly assigned for 2 treatment approaches. Ten patients received paclitaxel (175 mg/m) alone, and 14 patients took a combination therapy of paclitaxel and Avastin (5 mg/kg). Efficacy of the treatment approaches in the patients was validated with the change in the MPE volume. Pharmacokinetic (PK) profile and urinary excretion rate of paclitaxel were analyzed with serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level, and adverse events were examined as well.The combination therapy reduced the MPE level with a successful rate of 29% and a survival rate of 25% over the single paclitaxel treatment in the study cohort (both P < 0.05). PKs for the combined treatment displayed a rapid distribution of the anticancer drug paclitaxel with an obvious increase in its elimination half-life in the pleural fluid (both P < 0.01). Mean residence time of paclitaxel increased in the presence of Avastin (P < 0.01). Serum VEGF levels significantly reduced in the Avastin-treated patients as compared to the paclitaxel-treated ones (P < 0.01). The urinary excretion rate was similar in the study cohort. Incidence of adverse events for the 2 treatment approaches was similar in the patients.Intervention of Avastin enhances potency of paclitaxel in treatment of MPEs with the increased survival rate of the patients through inhibiting VEGF production and prolonging time of ongoing interaction between the chemotherapy drug and the tumor tissues.

Review: Cell Dynamics in Malignant Pleural Effusions

Malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) are a common manifestation found in patients with lung cancer. After cytological and histological confirmation of malignancy, talc pleurodesis still remains the treatment of choice in patients with MPEs resistant to chemotherapy. Despite this, primary challenges include reduced quality of life and life expectancy in general. Therefore, a better understanding of the cell biology of MPEs, along with improvements in treatment is greatly needed. It has recently been demonstrated that MPEs may represent an excellent source for identification of molecular mechanisms within the tumor and its environment. The present review summarizes the current understanding of MPEs cells and tumor microenvironment, and particularly focuses on dissecting the cross-talk between MPEs and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation and cancer stem cells.

A modified experimental model of malignant pleural disease induced by lung Lewis carcinoma (LLC) cells

Background

Malignant pleural effusion resulting mainly from pleural metastases of lung adenocarcinoma has clinical relevance, being a sign of poor prognosis and low life expectancy. Experimental models can mimic the human condition, contributing to advances in current understanding of the mechanisms patients’ pleural fluid accumulation and possible therapeutic strategies. The objective of this study is to evaluate the role of different concentrations of Lewis lung carcinoma cells (LLC cells) at the time of induction of experimental MPE and the main effects on survival of animals.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice received intrapleural injection of 0.1, 0.5 or 1.5 × 10⁵ LLC cells and survival curve, biochemical and pathological analyses of pleural fluid and tissue were analyzed.

Results

Evaluation of weight loss, mobility and survival showed that animals that received 0.5 × 10⁵ cells maintained more stable condition up to day 14 and a gain of 6 days survival over mice that received the highest concentration.

Conclusion

This study may allow a better understanding the mechanisms involved in the development of malignant pleural effusion and it may be promising in evaluating therapy to avoid recurrence, as the best time to indicate pleurodesis or target therapies.

Silver nitrate versus tetracycline in pleurodesis for malignant pleural effusions; a prospective randomized trial

BACKGROUND

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of silver nitrate (SN) versus tetracycline in pleurodesis among patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

METHODS

In this prospective randomized clinical trial, patients with unilateral MPE candidate for pleurodesis were enrolled. The patients randomly allocated in two groups for receiving 20 mL 0.5% SN or 2.5 g tetracycline diluted in 30 cc normal saline and 0.1% lidocaine, through the chest tube. Patients were followed-up immediately (during 24 h) and 1-month after the procedure for evaluating recurrence of the pleural effusion using chest radiograph. They were clinically evaluated for chest pain and/or dyspnea and fever using a questionnaire that completed by the surgeon. The results were compared with two groups.

RESULTS

During this trial, 50 patients with MPE candidate for pleurodesis were selected and randomized into two interventional groups (25 patients in each group). Immediate and late recurrence of pleural effusion after pleurodesis were similar in two groups (P > 0.05). All patients in tetracycline group had fever and chest pain, but in SN group fever and chest pain were reported in 3 (12%) and 12 (48%) of patients, respectively (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

SN is at least as effective as tetracycline for MPE treatment. In addition, its side effects were lower than tetracycline. Other advantages of SN are its low cost, availability, and safety. For more accurate results, it is recommended to design further trials with larger sample size and with lower doses of both SN and tetracycline.

Response to bevacizumab combination chemotherapy of malignant pleural effusions associated with non-squamous non-small-cell lung cancer

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication of lung cancer with devastating consequences. Since vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been implicated in MPE, we hypothesized that bevacizumab, an anti-VEGF antibody, may be effective against MPE in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We analysed the records of 21 patients treated for NSCLC-associated MPE between February, 2010 and August, 2013 who consequently underwent bevacizumab combination chemotherapy at the Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation Hospital. The results were retrospectively analysed using case records and radiographic imaging records. Three patients exhibited complete response of the pleural effusion to bevacizumab treatment, 8 patients achieved a partial response (PR) and 6 patients showed no response. When efficacy was assessed by the response of the measurable primary or metastatic lesions to the treatment, 5 patients achieved a PR, 13 patients had stable disease and 3 patients exhibited progressive disease. The response rate (RR) of the pleural effusion to the antibody treatment was 71.4% and the overall RR of measurable lesions was 23.8%. The median time-to-response for pleural effusion was 132 days. In conclusion, this study demonstrated a high R R to bevacizumab combination therapy for the MPE associated with non-squamous NSCLC. Therefore, bevacizumab therapy may be considered a therapeutic option for patients with non-squamous NSCLC who develop MPE.

Extracellular vesicles shed from gefitinib-resistant nonsmall cell lung cancer regulate the tumor microenvironment

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), including gefitinib, are the first-line treatment of choice for nonsmall cell lung cancer patients who harbor activating EGFR mutations, however, acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs is inevitable. The main objective of this study was to identify informative protein signatures of extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from gefitinib-resistant nonsmall cell lung cancer cells using proteomics analysis. Nano-LC-MS/MS analysis identified with high confidence (false discovery rate < 0.05, fold change ≥2) 664 EV proteins enriched in PC9R cells, which are resistant to gefitinib due to EGFR T790M mutation. Computational analyses suggested components of several signal transduction mechanisms including the AKT (also PKB, protein kinase B)/mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) pathway are overrepresented in EV from PC9R cells. Treatment of recipient cells with EV harvested from PC9R cells increased phosphorylation of signaling molecules, and enhanced proliferation, invasion, and drug resistance to gefitinib-induced apoptosis. Dose- and time-dependent pharmaceutical inhibition of AKT/mTOR pathway overcame drug resistance of PC9R cells and those of H1975 exhibiting EGFR T790M mutation. Our findings provide new insight into an oncogenic EV protein signature regulating tumor microenvironment, and will aid in the development of novel diagnostic strategies for prediction and assessment of gefitinib resistance.

Successful use of indwelling tunneled catheters for the management of effusions in children with advanced cancer

BACKGROUND

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and ascites (MA) negatively impact quality of life of palliative patients. Treatment options are limited. This study's purpose is to examine the experience with indwelling tunneled catheters (ITCs) for management of MPE/MA in children with advanced cancer.

METHODS

Children with MPE/MA who underwent ITC insertion (2007-2012) were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical, procedural, complication and outcome details were analyzed.

RESULTS

PleurX® ITCs (n = 12) were inserted in eight patients (5-18 years) with sarcoma (11 MPE, 1 MA), achieving symptom relief and facilitating discharge home post ITC (median 2 days). Median survival following ITC was 51 days. There were two major complications: pain (n = 1), late site infection (n = 1), and five minor complications. Drainage ceased in four patients (pleurodesis/tumor progression). At time of death, six ITCs (five patients) were still in situ.

CONCLUSIONS

ITC appears to be a safe, effective treatment for MPE/MA in advanced pediatric cancer, achieving symptomatic relief and discharge home.

Malignant pleural effusion: medical approaches for diagnosis and management

Malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) are the second leading cause of exudative pleural effusions after parapneumonic effusions. In the vast majority of cases, a MPE signifies incurable disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. Considerable advances have been made for the diagnosis of MPEs, through the development of improved methods in the specialized cytological and imaging studies. The cytological or histological confirmation of malignant cells is currently important in establishing a diagnosis. Furthermore, despite major advancements in cancer treatment for the past two decades, management of MPE remains palliative. This article presents a comprehensive review of the medical approaches for diagnosis and management of MPE.

Clinical outcomes of indwelling pleural catheter-related pleural infections: an international multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs) offer effective control of malignant pleural effusions (MPEs). IPC-related infection is uncommon but remains a major concern. Individual IPC centers see few infections, and previous reports lack sufficient numbers and detail. This study combined the experience of 11 centers from North America, Europe, and Australia to describe the incidence, microbiology, management, and clinical outcomes of IPC-related pleural infection.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective review of 1,021 patients with IPCs. All had confirmed MPE.

RESULTS

Only 50 patients (4.9%) developed an IPC-related pleural infection; most (94%) were successfully controlled with antibiotics (62% IV). One death (2%) directly resulted from the infection, whereas two patients (4%) had ongoing infectious symptoms when they died of cancer progression. Staphylococcus aureus was the causative organism in 48% of cases. Infections from gram-negative organisms were associated with an increased need for continuous antibiotics or death (60% vs 15% in gram-positive and 25% mixed infections, P = .02). The infections in the majority (54%) of cases were managed successfully without removing the IPC. Postinfection pleurodesis developed in 31 patients (62%), especially those infected with staphylococci (79% vs 45% with nonstaphylococcal infections, P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of IPC-related pleural infection was low. The overall mortality risk from pleural infection in patients treated with IPC was only 0.29%. Antibiotics should cover S aureus and gram-negative organisms until microbiology is confirmed. Postinfection pleurodesis is common and often allows removal of IPC. Heterogeneity in management is common, and future studies to define the optimal treatment strategies are needed.

Malignant pleural effusions: a review

Malignant pleural effusions are a cause of significant symptoms and distress in patients with end-stage malignancies and portend a poor prognosis. Management is aimed at symptom relief, with minimally invasive interventions and minimal requirement for hospital length of stay. The management options include watchful waiting if no symptoms are present, repeat thoracentesis, medical or surgical thoracoscopic techniques to achieve pleurodesis, pleuroperitoneal shunts, placement of tunneled pleural catheters, or a combination of modalities. To determine the best modality for management, patients must be assessed individually with concern for symptoms, functional status, prognosis, and their social and financial situations.

Diagnostic value of interleukin 21 and carcinoembryonic antigen levels in malignant pleural effusions

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of interleukin 21 (IL-21) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in tuberculous pleural effusions (TPEs) and malignant pleural effusions (MPEs). Pleural effusion samples from 103 patients were classified on the basis of diagnosis as TPE (n=51) and MPE (n=52). The concentration of IL-21 was determined by ELISA. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), adenosine dehydrogenase (ADA) and CEA levels were also determined in all patients. A significant difference was observed in the levels of ADA and CEA (P<0.01), but not in the levels of LDH (P>0.05) between TPE and MPE. The concentration of IL-21 in MPE was significantly higher compared to TPE (P<0.01). With a threshold value of 4.32 pg/ml, IL-21 had a sensitivity of 76.9% (40/52) and a specificity of 80.4% (41/51). Combined detection of IL-21 and CEA had a sensitivity of 69.2% (36/52) and a specificity of 92.2% (47/51). These two markers can contribute to the differential diagnosis of MPEs.

Intrapleural combination therapy with bevacizumab and cisplatin for non-small cell lung cancer‑mediated malignant pleural effusion

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), has been shown to be efficient in suppressing the accumulation of pleural fluid. However, whether intrapleural delivery of bevacizumab can be used to treat MPE remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined intrapleural therapy with bevacizumab and cisplatin, an antineoplastic agent, in controlling MPE. A total of 72 NSCLC study subjects with MPE were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The first group received intrapleural bevacizumab (300 mg) with cisplatin (30 mg) therapy and the second group received intrapleural cisplatin (30 mg) therapy alone. Pleural fluid was collected from both groups prior to and following treatment. The levels of VEGF and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in the pleural fluid were determined by ELISA. In 70 evaluable study subjects, the curative efficacy in the bevacizumab group was significantly higher than that found in the cisplatin group (83.33 vs. 50.00%, respectively; p<0.05). Therapy with combined bevacizumab plus cisplatin significantly reduced VEGF levels in the pleural fluid (p<0.01). In the bevacizumab group, the levels of VEGF in the pleural fluid were significantly lower compared to those of the cisplatin group after treatment, which showed greater efficacy (p<0.01). In addition, combination therapy showed greater efficacy in the patients with high levels of VEGF expression (p<0.01). There was no significant difference in grade III/IV adverse events between the two groups. All procedures were well tolerated by the patients. Combined intrapleural therapy with bevacizumab and cisplatin was effective and safe in managing NSCLC-mediated MPE. We propose that VEGF expression levels in MPE could serve as a prognostic marker for bevacizumab therapy.

Tube thoracostomy: a review for the interventional radiologist

Small-caliber tube thoracostomy is a valuable treatment for various pathologic conditions of the pleural space. Smaller caliber tubes placed under image guidance are becoming increasingly useful in numerous situations, are less painful than larger surgical tubes, and provide more accurate positioning when compared with tubes placed without image guidance. Basic anatomy and physiology of the pleural space, indications, and contraindications of small caliber tube thoracostomy, techniques for image-guided placement, complications and management of tube thoracostomy, and fundamental principles of pleurodesis are discussed in this review.

Management of pleural effusion, empyema, and lung abscess

Pleural effusion is an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space that is classified as transudate or exudate according to its composition and underlying pathophysiology. Empyema is defined by purulent fluid collection in the pleural space, which is most commonly caused by pneumonia. A lung abscess, on the other hand, is a parenchymal necrosis with confined cavitation that results from a pulmonary infection. Pleural effusion, empyema, and lung abscess are commonly encountered clinical problems that increase mortality. These conditions have traditionally been managed by antibiotics or surgical placement of a large drainage tube. However, as the efficacy of minimally invasive interventional procedures has been well established, image-guided small percutaneous drainage tubes have been considered as the mainstay of treatment for patients with pleural fluid collections or a lung abscess. In this article, the technical aspects of image-guided interventions, indications, expected benefits, and complications are discussed and the published literature is reviewed.

To drain or not to drain: an evidence-based approach to palliative procedures for the management of malignant pleural effusions

Malignant pleural effusions are often symptomatic and diagnosed late in the course of cancer. The optimal management strategy is controversial and includes both invasive and non-invasive strategies. Practitioners have the option of invasive procedures such as intermittent drainage or more permanent catheter drainage to confirm malignancy and to palliate symptoms. Because these effusions are often detected late in the course of disease in patients who may have limited life expectancy, procedural management may be associated with harms that outweigh benefits. We performed a literature review to examine the available evidence for catheter drainage of malignant pleural effusions in advanced cancer and reviewed alternative management strategies for the management of dyspnea. We provide a clinical case within the context of the research evidence for invasive and non-invasive management strategies. Our intent is to help inform decision making of patients and families in collaboration with their health care practitioners and interventionists by weighing the risks and benefits of catheter drainage versus alternative medical management strategies for malignant pleural effusions.

Role of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 in the control of malignant pleural effusion and survival in patients with primary lung adenocarcinoma

This study aimed at assessing the role of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the control of pleural effusion (PE) and survival in patients with primary lung adenocarcinoma. The concentrations of the 3 cytokines were measured in PE from 79 lung adenocarcinoma patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and 23 patients with tuberculosis. Data were correlated with the efficacy of MPE control and patient survival. The level of MCP-1 in PE was significantly higher in patients with lung adenocarcinoma than those with tuberculosis. By contrast, the levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 were significantly lower in patients with lung adenocarcinoma than those with tuberculosis. An MCP-1 level greater than 3,187 pg/mL (which was used as a cutoff point) indicated failure to control MPE (odds ratio [OR]=2.82, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.02-7.82, p=0.04). In multivariate analysis, MCP-1 was confirmed as an independent prognostic factor for progression-free survival (hazard ratio [HR]=2.02, 95% CI=1.24-3.30, p=0.01). The level of MCP-1 in PE appears to be a reliable surrogate marker for evaluating the therapeutic efficacy in the control of MPE and predicting survival in lung adenocarcinoma patients with MPE.

Expression of immunomodulatory neutrophil-activating protein of Helicobacter pylori enhances the antitumor activity of oncolytic measles virus

Helicobacter pylori neutrophil-activating protein (NAP) is a major virulence factor and powerful inducer of inflammatory reaction and Th1-polarized immune response. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of measles virus (MV) strains engineered to express secretory NAP forms against metastatic breast cancer. Recombinant viruses encoding secretory NAP forms (MV-lambda-NAP and MV-s-NAP) efficiently infect and destroy breast cancer cells by cell-to-cell viral spread and large syncytia formation independently of hormone receptor status. Intrapleural administration of MV-s-NAP doubled the median survival in a pleural effusion xenograft model: 65 days as compared to 29 days in the control group (P < 0.0001). This therapeutic effect correlated with a brisk Th1 type cytokine response in vivo. Secretory NAP was expressed at high levels by infected tumor cells and increased tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-12/23 cytokine concentrations were detected in the pleural effusion. In an aggressive model of lung metastatic breast cancer, MV-lambda-NAP and MV-s-NAP also significantly improved survival of the treated animals (P < 0.05) as compared to the control MV strain. These data suggest that potent immunomodulators of bacterial origin, such as H. pylori NAP, can enhance the antitumor effect of oncolytic viruses and support the feasibility and potential of a combined viroimmunotherapy approach.

A randomized controlled trial of the efficacy of cosmetic talc compared with iodopovidone for chemical pleurodesis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Talc is an effective and widely used agent for chemical pleurodesis. However, limited availability and high cost hamper the routine use of talc in resource poor countries. In this study, we compared the efficacy and safety of iodopovidone with that of cosmetic talc, for chemical pleurodesis.

METHODS

Patients with recurrent pleural effusions and/or spontaneous pneumothorax were prospectively randomized to undergo pleurodesis with cosmetic talc (5g) or iodopovidone (20mL of a 10% solution) by tube thoracostomy. The cosmetic talc was pretested for impurities (asbestos-free) and particle size (20-60µm), using energy dispersive analysis by X-ray and scanning electron microscopy. The success rate (complete or partial), time to pleurodesis and safety of these two agents was compared.

RESULTS

Pleurodesis was performed in 73 patients (39 with iodopovidone, 34 with cosmetic talc; 56 men, 17 women; mean age 51.7 years; 38 pleural effusions, 35 pneumothoraces). A complete response was obtained in all patients with pneumothorax in both the iodopovidone and talc groups. Among patients with pleural effusions, a complete response was observed in 16/19 and 15/19 patients in the iodopovidone and talc groups, respectively. A partial response was observed in two additional patients from each group. The time to pleurodesis was similar in the two groups. Minor side-effects (fever, chest pain) were observed with similar frequencies in the two groups. None of the patients experienced hypotension or ARDS.

CONCLUSIONS

Iodopovidone and cosmetic talc are equally efficacious and safe agents for chemical pleurodesis.

Intrapleural chemo- and hyperthermotherapies for malignant pleural effusion: a randomized prospective study

OBJECTIVE

The current prospective randomized study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combined intrapleural cisplatin and OK-432 (picibanil) plus hyperthermotherapy in patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

METHODS

A total of 358 patients with MPE due to end-stage malignancies were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups, A and B: the intrapleural combination of cisplatin and OK-432 with hyperthermotherapy (n = 179) or without hyperthermotherapy (n = 179), respectively. Mild toxicities such as nausea, vomiting or anorexia, bone marrow depression, and pyrexia were similar in both groups.

RESULT

Patients in Group A (with hyperthermotherapy) showed a significantly higher overall response (93.4%) compared to those in Group B (79.8%, χ(2) = 43.11, p < .05). The median survival time for patients in Group A and Group B were 8.9 and 6.2 months, respectively (p > .05). After treatment, the quality of life scores were significantly increased in both groups as compared to prior treatment (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study suggests that combined intrapleural cisplatin and OK-432 followed by hyperthermotherapy are more effective in the control of MPE and improve patients' quality of life.

The pulmonologist's diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in lung cancer

Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for lung cancer have improved with advancing technology and the acquisition of the necessary skills by bronchoscopists to fully use these advanced techniques. The diagnostic yield for lung cancer has significantly increased with the advent of technologies such as endobronchial ultrasound, navigational systems, and improved imaging modalities. Similarly, the therapeutic benefit of bronchoscopy in advanced lung cancer has begun to be understood for its impact on quality and quantity of life. This article highlights the pulmonologists' diagnostic advances and therapeutic options, with an emphasis on outcomes.

Diagnostic value of interleukin 22 and carcinoembryonic antigen in tuberculous and malignant pleural effusions

The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value of interleukin 22 (IL-22) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in tuberculous pleural effusions (TPEs) and malignant pleural effusions (MPEs). Pleural effusion samples from 56 patients were classified on the basis of diagnosis as TPE (n=28) and MPE (n=28). The concentration of IL-22 was determined by ELISA. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), adenosine dehydrogenase (ADA) and CEA levels were also determined in all patients. A significant difference was observed in the levels of ADA and CEA (P<0.01), but not in the levels of LDH (P>0.05) between TPE and MPE. The concentration of IL-22 in TPE was significantly higher compared to MPE (P<0.01). With a threshold value of 49 pg/ml, IL-22 had a sensitivity of 82.14% (23/28) and a specificity of 96.43% (27/28) for differential diagnosis. The combined detection of IL-22 and CEA had a sensitivity of 100% (28/28) and a specificity of 96.43% (27/28) to distinguish TPE from MPE. TPEs showed significantly higher levels of IL-22 compared to MPEs. The combined detection of IL-22 and CEA may be more valuable in the differential diagnosis between TPE and MPE.

Efficacy and safety of tunneled pleural catheters in adults with malignant pleural effusions: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Malignant pleural effusions (MPE) are a frequent cause of dyspnea and discomfort at the end of cancer patients' lives. The tunneled indwelling pleural catheter (TIPC) was approved by the FDA in 1997 and has been investigated as a treatment for MPE.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review published data on the efficacy and safety of the TIPC for treatment of MPE.

DESIGN

We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ISI Web of Science databases to identify studies published through October 2009 that reported outcomes in adult patients with MPE treated with a TIPC. Data were aggregated using summary statistics when outcomes were described in the same way among multiple primary studies.

MAIN MEASURES

Symptomatic improvement and complications associated with use of the TIPC.

KEY RESULTS

Nineteen studies with a total of 1,370 patients met criteria for inclusion in the review. Only one randomized study directly compared the TIPC with the current gold standard treatment, pleurodesis. All other studies were case series. Symptomatic improvement was reported in 628/657 patients (95.6%). Quality of life measurements were infrequently reported. Spontaneous pleurodesis occurred in 430/943 patients (45.6%). Serious complications were rare and included empyema in 33/1168 patients (2.8%), pneumothorax requiring a chest tube in 3/51 (5.9%), and unspecified pneumothorax in 17/439 (3.9%). Minor complications included cellulitis in 32/935 (3.4%), obstruction/clogging in 33/895 (3.7%) and unspecified malfunction of the catheter in 11/121 (9.1%). The use of the TIPC was without complication in 517/591 patients (87.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on low-quality evidence in the form of case series, the TIPC may improve symptoms for patients with MPE and does not appear to be associated with major complications. Prospective randomized studies comparing the TIPC to pleurodesis are needed before the TIPC can be definitively recommended as a first-line treatment of MPE.

Inhibition of pleural metastasis of collecting duct carcinoma of the kidney by modified cytokine-induced killer cells: A case report and review of the literature

Collecting duct carcinoma (CDC) or Bellini duct carcinoma of the kidney is a rare, but highly aggressive renal epithelial malignancy, with an extremely poor prognosis. Modified cytokine-induced killer (mCIK) cells were injected into the pleural cavity to treat pleural metastasis of CDC. The patient, a 33-year-old male, was admitted to hospital for further treatment for severe pleural metastasis of CDC. We cured the pleural metastasis through intrapleural infusion with mCIK cells. After receiving this innovative treatment, the patient exhibited a positive response: the cough, dyspnea, chest distress and thoracalgia were evidently relieved, while the pleural fluid became clear after exhibiting haematodes and its level decreased significantly. The patient achieved partial success. This novel immunotherapy method is a promising treatment for patients with refractory pleural metastasis.

Early and late morbidity and mortality and life expectancy following thoracoscopic talc insufflation for control of malignant pleural effusions: a review of 400 cases

BACKGROUND

Malignant pleural effusion is a common sequelae in patients with certain malignancies. It represents a terminal condition with short median survival (in terms of months) and the goal is palliation. Aim of our study is to analyze morbidity, mortality and life expectancy following videothoracoscopic talc poudrage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From September 2004 to October 2009, 400 patients underwent video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for malignant pleural effusion. The conditions of patients were assessed and graded before and after treatment concerning morbidity, mortality, success rate of pleurodesis and median survival.

RESULTS

The median duration of follow up was 40 months (range 4-61 months). All patients demonstrated notable improvement in dyspnea. Intraoperative mortality was zero. The procedure was well tolerated and no significant adverse effects were observed. In hospital mortality was 2% and the pleurodesis success rate was 85%. A poor Karnofsky Performance Status and delay between diagnosis of pleural effusion and pleurodesis were statistically significant factors for in-hospital mortality. The best survival was seen in breast cancer, followed by ovarian cancer, lymphoma and pleural mesothelioma.

CONCLUSIONS

Video-assisted thoracoscopic talc poudrage is an effective and safe procedure that yields a high rate of successful pleurodesis and achieves long-term control with marked dyspnea decrease.