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Roets E, van der Graaf W, van Riet BHG, Haas RL, Younger E, Sparano F, Wilson R, van der Mierden S, Steeghs N, Efficace F, Husson O. Patient-reported outcomes in randomized clinical trials of systemic therapy for advanced soft tissue sarcomas in adults: A systematic review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 197:104345. [PMID: 38582227 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review evaluates reporting of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) within randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) patients. METHODS A systematic literature search from January 2000 - August 2022 was conducted for phase II/III RCTs evaluating systemic treatments in adult patients with advanced STS. Quality of PRO reporting was assessed using the CONSORT PRO extension. RESULTS Out of 7294 abstracts, 59 articles were included; comprising 43 RCTs. Only 15 RCTs (35%) included PROs, none as primary endpoints. Only 10 of these RCTs reported PROs, either in the primary (6/10) or secondary publication (1/10) or in both (3/10), with a median time interval of 23 months. The median CONSORT PRO adherence score was 5.5/14, with higher scores in publications focusing exclusively on PROs. CONCLUSION These results highlight the need for improved and more consistent PRO reporting to inform patient care in the setting of advanced STS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyne Roets
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands
| | - Winette van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam 3015 GD, the Netherlands
| | - Bauke H G van Riet
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands
| | - Rick L Haas
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands; Department of Radiotherapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Eugenie Younger
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JJ, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Sparano
- Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Hematologic Diseases (GIMEMA) Data Center, Rome, Italy
| | - Roger Wilson
- Sarcoma Patients Advocacy Global Network, Untergasse 36, Wölfersheim D-61200, Germany; Sarcoma UK, 17/18 Angel Gate, City Road, London, UK
| | - Stevie van der Mierden
- Scientific information service, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands
| | - Neeltje Steeghs
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands
| | - Fabio Efficace
- Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Hematologic Diseases (GIMEMA) Data Center, Rome, Italy
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066 CX, the Netherlands; Department of Surgical Oncology, ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam 3015 GD, the Netherlands.
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Podda MG, Schiavello E, Nigro O, Clerici CA, Simonetti F, Luksch R, Terenziani M, Ferrari A, Casanova M, Spreafico F, Meazza C, Chiaravalli S, Biassoni V, Gattuso G, Puma N, Bergamaschi L, Sironi G, Massimino M. Palliative sedation in paediatric solid tumour patients: choosing the best drugs. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e1141-e1148. [PMID: 36418035 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2022-003534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer remains the leading cause of mortality by disease in childhood in high-income countries. For terminally ill children, care focuses on quality of life, and patient management fundamentally affects grieving families. This paper describes our experience of palliative sedation (PS) for children with refractory symptoms caused by solid tumours, focusing on the drugs involved. METHODS We retrospectively collected data on all children treated for cancer who died at the pediatric oncology unit of the Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori between January 2016 and December 2020. RESULTS Of the 29 patients eligible for the study, all but 4 received PS. Midazolam was always used, combined in 16 cases with other drugs (mainly classic neuroleptics, alpha-2 agonists and antihistamines). Throughout the period of PS and on the day of death, patients with sarcoma were given higher doses of midazolam and morphine, and more often received combinations of drugs than patients with brain tumours. Sarcoma causes significant symptoms, while brain tumours require less intensive analgesic-sedative therapies because they already impair a patient's state of consciousness. CONCLUSIONS Optimising pharmacological treatments demands a medical team that knows how drugs (often developed for other indications) work. Emotional and relational aspects are important too, and any action to lower a patient's consciousness should be explained to the family and justified. Parents should not feel like helpless witnesses. Guidelines on PS in paediatrics could help, providing they acknowledge that a child's death is always a unique case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Giorgia Podda
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Schiavello
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Olga Nigro
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Carlo Alfredo Clerici
- Psychology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Simonetti
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Luksch
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Terenziani
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Ferrari
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Michela Casanova
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Filippo Spreafico
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Cristina Meazza
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Chiaravalli
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Biassoni
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanna Gattuso
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Nadia Puma
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Bergamaschi
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Givanna Sironi
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Maura Massimino
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
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Košir U, van de Wal D, Husson O, Zablith N, Turcotte RE. Patient-physician agreement on function and pain is associated with long-term outcomes in sarcoma: findings from a longitudinal study. J Cancer Surviv 2023:10.1007/s11764-023-01473-3. [PMID: 37847463 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01473-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to describe the level of agreement between patients and physicians on the ratings of daily functioning and pain in a cohort of sarcoma patients and assess how (dis)agreement and its change over time predicted patient-reported outcomes in survivorship. METHOD We performed secondary analysis of longitudinal data from a sarcoma-specialty clinic in Montreal, Canada. Demographics, clinical characteristics and patient-physician agreement were summarized descriptively. Linear mixed models were used to assess the effects of time, baseline agreement, change in agreement over time, interaction of time and change in agreement and 12-month daily functioning, quality of life, and fatigue. RESULTS Data were available for 806 patients (57.7% male, x̄ = 53.3 years) who completed at least one questionnaire. Patient-physician disagreement was common on the level of function (43.4%) and pain (45.7%). Baseline physician-patient agreement was associated with better 12-month outcomes. Improvement in agreement on function over time was significantly associated with daily functioning (F(2, 212) = 3.18, p = 0.043) and quality of life (F(2, 212) = 3.17, p < 0.044). The pattern was similar though less pronounced for the agreement on pain. CONCLUSIONS Our study offers novel insights into the importance of patient-physician agreement and communication's role in long-term patient-reported outcomes in sarcoma. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The results emphasize the importance of mutual understanding of symptoms and patients' needs and suggest that further consultation in cases of discordance of ratings and opinions might be beneficial for optimal survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urška Košir
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Deborah van de Wal
- Medical Oncology Department, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Medical Oncology Department, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nadine Zablith
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Robert E Turcotte
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada
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Kokkali S, Boukovinas I, Samantas E, Papakotoulas P, Athanasiadis I, Andreadis C, Makrantonakis P, Samelis G, Timotheadou E, Vassilopoulos G, Papadimitriou C, Tzanninis D, Ardavanis A, Kotsantis I, Karvounis-Marolachakis K, Theodoropoulou T, Psyrri A. A Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Study to Assess the Clinical Activity and Impact on Symptom Burden and Patients' Quality of Life in Patients with Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcomas Treated with Trabectedin in a Real-World Setting in Greece. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1879. [PMID: 35454787 PMCID: PMC9031293 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This non-interventional, multicenter, prospective study aimed to evaluate the real-world activity of trabectedin, and its impact on symptom burden and quality of life in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (aSTS) treated in routine clinical settings in Greece. Patients with histologically confirmed aSTS newly initiated on trabectedin were enrolled. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) rate at 6 months. Secondary endpoints included PFS rate at 3 months, median PFS, objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and an assessment of the impact of treatment on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), cancer-related symptom burden and symptom interference with function, as well as all-cause treatment discontinuation rate. A total of 64 eligible patients from 13 Greek centers were evaluated. Patients received a median of three trabectedin cycles per patient (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.0-6.0). Median PFS was 6.6 months with 67.9% and 51.2% of patients free from progression at 3 and 6 months, respectively. ORR was 7.8% and DCR 21.9%. Median OS was 13.1 months. No significant changes from enrolment were noted in HRQoL scores. In total, 30 patients (46.9%) had at least one trabectedin-related adverse drug reaction (ADR) and 9 (14.1%) at least one serious ADR. The treatment discontinuation rate due to toxicity was 9.4%. These results suggest that trabectedin is an active treatment with clinically meaningful benefits in patients with aSTS with no new safety signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Kokkali
- First Department of Medical Oncology, Agios Savvas Athens General Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Boukovinas
- Medical Oncology, Bioclinic of Thessaloniki, 54622 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Epaminondas Samantas
- Third Oncology Clinic, Agioi Anargiroi Athens General Hospital, 14564 Athens, Greece;
| | - Pavlos Papakotoulas
- First Chemotherapeutic Oncology Department, Theagenion Anti-Cancer Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54639 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Ilias Athanasiadis
- Oncology Department, Hygeia Athens Private Hospital, 15123 Maroussi, Greece;
| | - Charalampos Andreadis
- Third Department of Clinical Oncology and Chemotherapy, Theagenion Anti-Cancer Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54639 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Parisis Makrantonakis
- Second Department of Clinical Oncology and Chemotherapy, Theagenion Anti-Cancer Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54639 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Georgios Samelis
- Oncology Department, Hippocration General Hospital of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Eleni Timotheadou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Papageorgiou Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54629 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | | | - Christos Papadimitriou
- Oncology Unit, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Alexandros Ardavanis
- First Department of Medical Oncology, Agios Savvas Athens General Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Kotsantis
- Division Medical Oncology, Attikon University General Hospital of Athens, 12462 Haidari, Greece; (I.K.); (A.P.)
| | | | | | - Amanda Psyrri
- Division Medical Oncology, Attikon University General Hospital of Athens, 12462 Haidari, Greece; (I.K.); (A.P.)
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Younger E, Jones RL, den Hollander D, Soomers VLMN, Desar IME, Benson C, Young RJ, Oosten AW, de Haan JJ, Miah A, Zaidi S, Gelderblom H, Steeghs N, Husson O, van der Graaf WTA. Priorities and preferences of advanced soft tissue sarcoma patients starting palliative chemotherapy: baseline results from the HOLISTIC study. ESMO Open 2021; 6:100258. [PMID: 34509803 PMCID: PMC8441156 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2021.100258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Palliative chemotherapy is the principal treatment of patients with advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STS); however prognosis is limited (median overall survival 12-19 months). In this setting, patient values and priorities are central to personalised treatment decisions. PATIENTS AND METHODS The prospective HOLISTIC study was conducted in the UK and the Netherlands assessing health-related quality of life in STS patients receiving palliative chemotherapy. Participants completed a questionnaire before starting chemotherapy, including attitudes towards quality of life (QoL) versus length of life (LoL), decisional control preferences, and decisional conflict. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to evaluate associations between patient characteristics and preferences. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-seven patients with advanced STS participated (UK: n = 72, the Netherlands: n = 65). Median age was 62 (27-79) years. Preference for extended LoL (n = 66, 48%) was slightly more common than preference for QoL (n = 56, 41%); 12 patients (9%) valued LoL and QoL equally (missing: n = 3). Younger patients (age <40 years) prioritised LoL, whereas two-thirds of older patients (aged ≥65 years) felt that QoL was equally or more important than LoL (P = 0.020). Decisional conflict was most common in patients who prioritised QoL (P = 0.024). Most patients preferred an active (n = 45, 33%) or collaborative (n = 59, 44%) role in treatment decisions. Gender, performance status, and country were significantly associated with preferred role. Concordance between preferred and actual role in chemotherapy decision was high (n = 104, 76%). CONCLUSIONS Heterogeneous priorities and preferences among advanced STS patients support personalised decisions about palliative treatment. Considering individual differences during treatment discussions may enhance communication and optimise patient-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Younger
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - R L Jones
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - D den Hollander
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - V L M N Soomers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - I M E Desar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - C Benson
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - R J Young
- Academic Unit of Clinical Oncology, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - A W Oosten
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J J de Haan
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - A Miah
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - S Zaidi
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - H Gelderblom
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - N Steeghs
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - O Husson
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - W T A van der Graaf
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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6
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Gulia A, Arora RS, Panda PK, Raja A, Tiwari A, Bakhshi S, Salins N, Goel V, Janu A. Adapting Management of Sarcomas in COVID-19: An Evidence-Based Review. Indian J Orthop 2021; 55:1-13. [PMID: 32836361 PMCID: PMC7261215 DOI: 10.1007/s43465-020-00143-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
With the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) being declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization, the Indian healthcare sector is at the forefront to deliver optimal care. Patients with cancer especially are at serious risk for increased chances of morbidity and mortality due to their immunocompromised state. Currently there is a paucity of definitive guidelines for the management of sarcomas during the pandemic in a resource-constrained and diverse population setting like India. Health care professionals from various specialties involved in the management of sarcomas have collaborated to discuss various aspects of evidence-based sarcoma management during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article provides structured recommendations for HCP to adapt to the situation, optimize treatment protocols with judicious use of all resources while providing evidence-based treatment for sarcoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Gulia
- Bone and Soft Tissue Services, Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, and Homi Bhabha National Institure (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | | | - Pankaj Kumar Panda
- Department of Clinical Research, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, India
| | - Anand Raja
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar, Chennai, India
| | - Akshay Tiwari
- Musculoskeletal Oncology, Max Institute of Cancer Care, Saket, New Delhi, India
| | - Sameer Bakhshi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dr. B. R. A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Naveen Salins
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE, Manipal, India
| | - Vineeta Goel
- Radiation Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Janu
- Department of Radiology, Tata Memorial Hospital, and Homi Bhabha National Institure (HBNI), Mumbai, India
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Gounder M, Abdul Razak AR, Gilligan AM, Leong H, Ma X, Somaiah N, Chawla SP, Martin-Broto J, Grignani G, Schuetze SM, Vincenzi B, Wagner AJ, Chmielowski B, Jones RL, Shah J, Shacham S, Kauffman M, Riedel RF, Attia S. Health-related quality of life and pain with selinexor in patients with advanced dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Future Oncol 2021; 17:2923-2939. [PMID: 33855868 PMCID: PMC9344436 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Compare health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of selinexor versus placebo in patients with dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Materials & methods: HRQoL was assessed at baseline and day 1 of each cycle using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer 30-item core quality of life questionnaire. Results were reported from baseline to day 169 (where exposure to treatment was maximized while maintaining adequate sample size). Results: Pain scores worsened for placebo versus selinexor across all postbaseline visits, although differences in HRQoL at some visits were not significant. Other domains did not exhibit significant differences between arms; however, scores in both arms deteriorated over time. Conclusion: Patients treated with selinexor reported lower rates and slower worsening of pain compared with patients who received placebo. The goal of this study was to compare the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with advanced unresectable dedifferentiated liposarcoma treated with selinexor compared with those treated with placebo. HRQoL was measured prior to treatment initiation and at the first day of each cycle of their treatment using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer 30-item core quality of life questionnaire. Pain scores worsened for placebo compared with selinexor across all visits after treatment, but differences at some visits were not significant. Other domains did not exhibit significant differences between arms; however, scores in both arms worsened over time reflecting the progressive disease burden in this patient population. As pain is one of the most devastating symptoms associated with advanced and progressing cancers, the significant reduction in pain in the selinexor arm, according to patient perception, represent a relevant added value of this drug in dedifferentiated liposarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrinal Gounder
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, NY 10021, USA
| | | | | | - Hoyee Leong
- Karyopharm Therapeutics, Newton, MA 02459, USA
| | - Xiwen Ma
- Karyopharm Therapeutics, Newton, MA 02459, USA
| | - Neeta Somaiah
- Department of Sarcoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sant P Chawla
- Sarcoma Oncology Center, Santa Monica, CA 90403, USA
| | - Javier Martin-Broto
- Institute of Biomedicine Research (IBIS)/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Calle Antonio Maura Montaner, 41013, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Giovanni Grignani
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060, Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Scott M Schuetze
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Bruno Vincenzi
- Policlinico Universitario Campus, Bio-Medico, Via Álvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128, Roma, Italy
| | - Andrew J Wagner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Bartosz Chmielowski
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Robin L Jones
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust & The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5PT, UK
| | - Jatin Shah
- Karyopharm Therapeutics, Newton, MA 02459, USA
| | | | | | - Richard F Riedel
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Steven Attia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
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8
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Maggi G, Terrenato I, Giacomelli L, Bifano V, Gravili A, Faltyn W, Ferraresi V, Favale L, Petrongari MG, Salducca N, Vari S, Falcicchio C, Rossi B, Biagini R, Pugliese P. Symptoms and their implications on quality of life and psychological distress in sarcoma patients. Future Oncol 2021; 17:817-823. [PMID: 33508959 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate symptoms, their variation over time and their relationship with quality of life (QoL)/psychological distress in sarcoma patients, as few data regarding QoL and psychological distress in this set of patients are currently available. A total of 188 sarcoma patients from an Italian referral center were involved. Symptoms and financial difficulties were evaluated with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire from the first treatment and over the follow-up period, up to 6 years. The authors found that patients with sarcoma experience several symptoms, especially fatigue and pain, which may dramatically worsen QoL and psychological distress. In conclusion, patients with sarcoma often experience fatigue, pain and financial difficulties, which negatively impacts QoL and psychological distress. To ameliorate overall QoL, proper control of symptoms is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Maggi
- Psychology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Terrenato
- Biostatistic Unit - Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Giacomelli
- Polistudium SRL, Milan, Italy.,Department of Surgical Sciences & Integrated Diagnostics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Viviana Bifano
- Psychology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gravili
- Psychology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Wioletta Faltyn
- Sarcoma Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Ferraresi
- First Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Favale
- Orthopaedics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Petrongari
- Deptartment of Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Salducca
- Orthopaedics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Vari
- First Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Falcicchio
- Psychology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Rossi
- Orthopaedics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Biagini
- Orthopaedics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pugliese
- Psychology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
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Brandes F, Striefler JK, Dörr A, Schmiester M, Märdian S, Koulaxouzidis G, Kaul D, Behzadi A, Thuss-Patience P, Ahn J, Pelzer U, Bullinger L, Flörcken A. Impact of a specialised palliative care intervention in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma - a single-centre retrospective analysis. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:16. [PMID: 33446180 PMCID: PMC7809873 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00702-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) account for less than 1% of all malignancies. Approximately 50% of the patients develop metastases with limited survival in the course of their disease. For those patients, palliative treatment aiming at symptom relief and improvement of quality of life is most important. However, data on symptom burden and palliative intervention are limited in STS patients. AIM Our study evaluates the effectiveness of a palliative care intervention on symptom relief and quality of life in STS patients. DESIGN/SETTING We retrospectively analysed 53 inpatient visits of 34 patients with advanced STS, admitted to our palliative care unit between 2012 and 2018. Symptom burden was measured with a standardised base assessment questionnaire at admission and discharge. RESULTS Median disease duration before admission was 24 months, 85% of patients had metastases. The predominant indication for admission was pain, weakness and fatigue. Palliative care intervention led to a significant reduction of pain: median NRS for acute pain was reduced from 3 to 1 (p < 0.001), pain within the last 24 h from 5 to 2 (p < 0.001) and of the median MIDOS symptom score: 18 to 13 (p < 0.001). Also, the median stress level, according to the distress thermometer, was reduced significantly: 7.5 to 5 (p = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS Our data underline that specialised palliative care intervention leads to significant symptom relief in patients with advanced STS. Further efforts should aim for an early integration of palliative care in these patients focusing primarily on the identification of subjects at high risk for severe symptomatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Brandes
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - J K Striefler
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Dörr
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Schmiester
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - S Märdian
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Centre for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - G Koulaxouzidis
- Department of Surgery, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Berlin, Germany
| | - D Kaul
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Behzadi
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - P Thuss-Patience
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - J Ahn
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - U Pelzer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - L Bullinger
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Berlin, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - A Flörcken
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
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10
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Hindi N, Carrasco García I, Sánchez-Camacho A, Gutierrez A, Peinado J, Rincón I, Benedetti J, Sancho P, Santos P, Sánchez-Bustos P, Marcilla D, Encinas V, Chacon S, Muñoz-Casares C, Moura D, Martin-Broto J. Trabectedin Plus Radiotherapy for Advanced Soft-Tissue Sarcoma: Experience in Forty Patients Treated at a Sarcoma Reference Center. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123740. [PMID: 33322663 PMCID: PMC7764328 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Active therapeutic options in advanced sarcomas, able to induce durable objective responses, are scarce beyond first line. New strategies for disease and symptomatic control are thus needed. Our aim was to analyze the activity of the combination of trabectedin and palliative radiotherapy in the real-life setting, in patients with pretreated metastatic sarcoma. Our findings on 40 pretreated metastatic soft-tissue sarcoma patients, in terms of objective responses (overall response rate by RECIST of 32.5%) and outcome (median progression-free survival of 7.5 months and median overall survival of 23.5 months), confirm the activity of this regimen, which is a valuable option to consider, especially in patients in which a dimensional response could help for symptomatic control. Abstract Symptomatic control and tumoral shrinkage is an unmet need in advanced soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) patients beyond first-line. The combination of trabectedin and radiotherapy showed activity in a recently reported clinical trial in this setting. This retrospective series aims to analyze our experience with the same regimen in the real-life setting. We retrospectively reviewed advanced sarcoma patients treated with trabectedin concomitantly with radiotherapy with palliative intent. Growth-modulation index (GMI) was calculated as a surrogate of efficacy. Forty metastatic patients were analyzed. According to RECIST, there was one (2.5%) complete response, 12 (30%) partial responses, 18 (45%) disease stabilizations, and nine (22.5%) progressions. After a median follow-up of 15 months (range 2–38), median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 7.5 months (95% CI 2.8–12.2) and 23.5 months (95% CI 1.1–45.8), respectively. Median GMI was 1.42 (range 0.19–23.76), and in 16 (53%) patients, it was >1.33. In patients with GMI >1.33, median OS was significantly longer than in those with GMI 0–1.33 (median OS 52.1 months (95% CI not reached) vs. 8.9 months (95% CI 6.3–11.6), p = 0.028). The combination of trabectedin plus radiotherapy is an active therapeutic option in patients with advanced STS, especially when tumor shrinkage for symptomatic relief is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Hindi
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- TERABIS Group, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (P.S.-B.); (D.M.)
| | - Irene Carrasco García
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- TERABIS Group, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (P.S.-B.); (D.M.)
| | - Alberto Sánchez-Camacho
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Antonio Gutierrez
- Hematology Department, University Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Mallorca, Spain;
| | - Javier Peinado
- Radiation Oncology Department, University Hospital Virgen del Rocio, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (J.P.); (I.R.)
- Biología Molecular del Cáncer, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Rincón
- Radiation Oncology Department, University Hospital Virgen del Rocio, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (J.P.); (I.R.)
| | - Johanna Benedetti
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Pilar Sancho
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Paloma Santos
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- TERABIS Group, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (P.S.-B.); (D.M.)
| | - Paloma Sánchez-Bustos
- TERABIS Group, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (P.S.-B.); (D.M.)
| | - David Marcilla
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Victor Encinas
- Musculoskeletal Unit, Radiology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Sara Chacon
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Unit, Orthopedics Surgery Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Cristobal Muñoz-Casares
- Surgery Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain;
| | - David Moura
- TERABIS Group, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (P.S.-B.); (D.M.)
| | - Javier Martin-Broto
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Av Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (N.H.); (I.C.G.); (A.S.-C.); (J.B.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- TERABIS Group, IBiS (Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla), 41013 Sevilla, Spain; (P.S.-B.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-629-108-979
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11
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The Health-Related Quality of Life of Sarcoma Patients and Survivors in Germany-Cross-Sectional Results of a Nationwide Observational Study (PROSa). Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123590. [PMID: 33266287 PMCID: PMC7759994 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sarcomas are a rare cancer with many different subtypes. They can occur anywhere in the body and are treated in a multi-disciplinary manner. Large studies on the quality of life of sarcoma patients are rare, so little is known about how patients are doing compared to the general population and which groups of sarcoma patients are particularly affected by quality of life limitations. We assessed the quality of life of 1113 sarcoma patients from Germany. The majority were particularly restricted in their emotional functioning, physical functioning, and the exercise of everyday demands (role function). Many of them experienced pain (56%) and fatigue (51%). We found that patients with leg or bone sarcomas were especially affected by quality of life limitations. We also found that patients who received a retirement pension were less affected by quality of life restrictions than patients who had not retired. Abstract Sarcomas are rare cancers with high heterogeneity in terms of type, location, and treatment. The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of sarcoma patients has rarely been investigated and is the subject of this analysis. Adult sarcoma patients and survivors were assessed between September 2017 and February 2019 in 39 study centers in Germany using standardized, validated questionnaires (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30)). Associated factors were analyzed exploratively using multivariable linear regressions. Among 1113 patients, clinically important limitations and symptoms were most pronounced in emotional (63%, 95% CI 60–66%), physical (60%, 95% CI 57–62%), role functioning (51%, 95% CI 48–54%), and pain (56%, 95% CI 53–59%) and fatigue (51%, 95% CI 48–54%). HRQoL differed between tumor locations with lower extremities performing the worst and sarcoma types with bone sarcoma types being most affected. Additionally, female gender, higher age, lower socioeconomic status, recurrent disease, not being in retirement, comorbidities, and being in treatment were associated with lower HRQoL. Sarcoma patients are severely restricted in their HRQoL, especially in functioning scales. The heterogeneity of sarcomas with regard to type and location is reflected in HRQoL outcomes. During treatment and follow-up, close attention has to be paid to the reintegration of the patients into daily life as well as to their physical abilities and emotional distress.
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12
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Kosir U, Bowes L, Taylor RM, Gerrand C, Windsor R, Onasanya M, Martins A. Psychological adaptation and recovery in youth with sarcoma: a qualitative study with practical implications for clinical care and research. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038799. [PMID: 33234628 PMCID: PMC7684813 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study explored factors that play a role in psychological adaptation and recovery of young people with sarcoma. DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING National Health Service hospitals in the UK. METHODS Using purposive sampling, participants were recruited for semistructured interviews over the telephone or face to face in order to answer questions about how cancer impacted various domains of their life. Data were analysed using a framework approach. RESULTS Thirty participants, aged 15-39 years with primary sarcoma diagnosis provided in-depth accounts of their experience. Emerging themes from the interviews were grouped into two overarching themes that relate to one's adaptation to illness: individual level and environmental level. The qualitative nature of our study sheds light on meaningful connections between various factors and their role in one's psychological adaptation to sarcoma. We devised a visual matrix to illustrate how risk and protective factors in adaptation vary between and within individuals. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that young people with sarcoma report an array of both positive and negative factors related to their illness experience. The route to recovery is a multifactorial process and a one-size-fits-all approach to psychosocial care proves inadequate. We propose that moving beyond the latent constructs of resilience and psychopathology towards a dynamic model of psychological adaptation and recovery in this population can result in optimisation of care. We offer some recommendations for professionals working with young people with sarcoma in clinic and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urska Kosir
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Oxford University, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Lucy Bowes
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Oxford University, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Rachel M Taylor
- Cancer Clinical Trials, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and AHP Led Research (CNMAR), University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Craig Gerrand
- Sarcoma Service, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Stanmore, UK
| | - Rachael Windsor
- Paediatric & Adolescent Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria Onasanya
- Paediatric & Adolescent Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ana Martins
- Paediatric & Adolescent Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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13
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Hentschel L, Richter S, Kopp HG, Kasper B, Kunitz A, Grünwald V, Kessler T, Chemnitz JM, Pelzer U, Schuler U, Freitag J, Schilling A, Hornemann B, Arndt K, Bornhäuser M, Schuler MK. Quality of life and added value of a tailored palliative care intervention in patients with soft tissue sarcoma undergoing treatment with trabectedin: a multicentre, cluster-randomised trial within the German Interdisciplinary Sarcoma Group (GISG). BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035546. [PMID: 32859662 PMCID: PMC7454199 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The choice of drug treatment in advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) continues to be a challenge regarding efficacy, quality of life (QoL) and toxicity. Unlike other cancer types, where integrating patient-reported outcomes (PRO) has proven to be beneficial for QoL, there is no such evidence in patients with STS as of now. The YonLife trial aimed to explore the effect of a tailored multistep intervention on QoL, symptoms and survival in patients with advanced STS undergoing treatment with trabectedin as well as identifying predictors of QoL. DESIGN YonLife is a cluster-randomised, open-label, proof-of-concept study. The intervention incorporates electronic PRO assessment, a case vignette and expert-consented treatment recommendations. PARTICIPANTS Six hospitals were randomised to the control arm (CA) or interventional arm (IA). Seventy-nine patients were included of whom 40 were analysed as per-protocol analysis set. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The primary end point was the change of Functional Assessment for Cancer Therapy (FACT-G) total score after 9 weeks. Secondary outcomes included QoL (FACT-G subscales), anorexia and cachexia (Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT)), symptoms (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI)), anxiety and depression (HADS), pain intensity and interference (Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)) and survival assessment. RESULTS After 9 weeks of treatment, QoL declined less in the IA (ΔFACT-G total score: -2.4, 95% CI: -9.2 to 4.5) as compared with CA (ΔFACT-G total score: -3.9; 95% CI:-11.3 to 3.5; p=0.765). In almost all FACT-G subscales, average declines were lower in IA, but without reaching statistical significance. Smaller adverse trends between arms were observed for MDASI, FAACT, HADS and BPI scales. These trends failed to reach statistical significance. Overall mean survival was longer in IA (648 days) than in CA (389 days, p=0.110). QoL was predicted by symptom severity, symptom interference, depression and anxiety. CONCLUSION Our data suggest a potentially favourable effect of an electronic patient-reported outcomes based intervention on QoL that needs to be reappraised in confirmatory studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT02204111).
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Affiliation(s)
- Leopold Hentschel
- Department of Psychooncology of the University Cancer Center (NCT/UCC), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stephan Richter
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Kopp
- Interdisciplinary Center for Soft-Tissue-Sarcoma, GIST and Bone-Tumor, Robert-Bosch-Center of Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Bernd Kasper
- Sarcoma Unit, Interdisciplinary Tumor Center, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Viktor Grünwald
- Interdisciplinary Genitourinary Oncology/West-German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Torsten Kessler
- Hematology Oncology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Uwe Pelzer
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schuler
- University Palliative Center, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Sachsen, Germany
| | - Janet Freitag
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andrea Schilling
- Department of Social Work, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Sachsen, Germany
| | - Beate Hornemann
- Department of Psychooncology of the University Cancer Center (NCT/UCC), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Karin Arndt
- Patient Advocacy, Das Lebenshaus e.V, Wölfersheim, Germany
| | - Martin Bornhäuser
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Markus Kajo Schuler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Oncology, HELIOS Hospital Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Lim HJ, Ong CAJ, Skanthakumar T, Mak LYH, Wasudevan SD, Tan JWS, Chia CS, Tan GHC, Teo MCC. Retrospective quality of life study in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma in an Asian population. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:270. [PMID: 32762683 PMCID: PMC7409714 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01491-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retroperitoneal sarcoma represents 15% of sarcomas. The mainstay of treatment is surgery where a majority of patients require multi-visceral resections that may significantly impact their quality of life (QOL) following surgery. Studies in other cancers have shown that QOL may not be significantly impacted after radical or extensive surgery. However, there are limited studies examining the QOL specifically in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. In this pilot study, we retrospectively evaluated the QOL of patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. METHODS 32 out of 90 patients who underwent surgical intervention for retroperitoneal sarcoma in National Cancer Centre Singapore from January 1999 to August 2018 who were alive and on follow-up were included in this study. EORTC-QLQ-C30 was administered to the patients. RESULTS The median age of our patients was 59 years (range, 35-84), and median time from surgery to the implementation of questionnaire was 2.5 years (range, 0.05-9.6). Younger patients had significantly better differences in global health, physical and role functioning scores as compared to older individuals. Female patients reported higher global health, physical, emotional and social functioning scores than males. Patients who were more than 2 years post-surgery exhibited better QOL scores as compared to those who had more recent surgery. Our patients had comparable global health and functioning scores compared to a reference group of outpatient cancer patients at our institution. CONCLUSIONS Our pilot study investigating the QOL of patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma has shown that patients need to be followed up for at least 2 years following surgery to evaluate their QOL. In general, they achieved better functioning scores when compared with other cancer patients. These findings support the need for larger-scale prospective studies to further evaluate the QOL of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Jun Lim
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore
| | - Chin-Ann Johnny Ong
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore ,grid.428397.30000 0004 0385 0924Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, S169857 Singapore ,grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Laboratory of Applied Human Genetics, Division of Medical Sciences, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, S169610 Singapore ,grid.418812.60000 0004 0620 9243Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR Research Entities, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, S138673 Singapore
| | - Thakshayeni Skanthakumar
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore
| | - Lisa Yuen Hong Mak
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore
| | - Seettha Devi Wasudevan
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore
| | - Joey Wee-Shan Tan
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore ,grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Laboratory of Applied Human Genetics, Division of Medical Sciences, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, S169610 Singapore
| | - Claramae Shulyn Chia
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore ,grid.428397.30000 0004 0385 0924Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, S169857 Singapore
| | - Grace Hwei Ching Tan
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore ,grid.428397.30000 0004 0385 0924Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, S169857 Singapore
| | - Melissa Ching Ching Teo
- grid.410724.40000 0004 0620 9745Department of Sarcoma, Peritoneal and Rare Tumours (SPRinT), Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore, 169610 Singapore ,grid.428397.30000 0004 0385 0924Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, S169857 Singapore
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15
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Younger E, Jones RL, Desar IME, Peckitt C, van der Graaf WTA, Husson O. Health-related quality Of Life In patients with advanced Soft TIssue sarcomas treated with Chemotherapy (The HOLISTIC study): protocol for an international observational cohort study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035171. [PMID: 32487574 PMCID: PMC7265010 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STS). Treatment intent is usually palliative, aiming to improve symptoms, stabilise or reduce tumour burden and extend life. Clinical trials have traditionally used radiological response, time to progression and survival as measures of treatment efficacy. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is at least equally important or more important than survival for many patients with advanced cancer. Systematically collecting HRQoL data during chemotherapy can provide greater insight into treatment efficacy from the patient perspective.The primary aims of this study are to evaluate HRQoL in patients with advanced STS treated with chemotherapy over time, explore the decision-making process and patient reflection post-treatment. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is an observational, international cohort study for 132 patients aged ≥18 years with advanced STS treated at eight centres (three in the UK, five in the Netherlands). Patients will be recruited prior to starting first-line or third-line chemotherapy and invited to complete questionnaires using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Initial treatment and Long-term Evaluation of Survivorship registry (PROFILES); an established international registry for collection of cancer patient-reported outcomes. Online (or paper) questionnaires will be completed at baseline, each cycle of chemotherapy and 2-3 monthly during follow-up. The questionnaire package includes the Decisional Conflict Scale, Control Preferences Scale, Quality-Quantity Questionnaire, treatment expectations, European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC-QLQ-C30), EORTC financial toxicity items, Work Ability Index, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) items and Decisional Regret Scale. Clinical data will be extracted from patient records and linked with questionnaire responses. The primary outcome measure is the change in global HRQoL from baseline to after cycle 4 of first-line chemotherapy (based on published data showing that patients with advanced STS complete a median number of four cycles of first-line chemotherapy). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Heath Research Authority and Research Ethics Committee (REC 17/NI/0197). Results from the Health-related quality Of Life In patients with advanced Soft TIssue sarcomas treated with Chemotherapy (HOLISTIC) study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated at local, national and international conferences. We will also present our findings at any appropriate patient meetings and involve patients in study-related publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03621332.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenie Younger
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
- Medical Oncology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Robin L Jones
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Ingrid M E Desar
- Medical Oncology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Clare Peckitt
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
- Medical Oncology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
- Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
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Skin and Soft Tissue Lesions in a District Hospital in Central Nigeria: A Histopathological Study. Dermatol Res Pract 2019; 2019:8143680. [PMID: 32089672 PMCID: PMC7012205 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8143680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Skin and soft tissue diseases form a large and heterogeneous group of mesenchymal extraskeletal and dermatologic lesions in humans. Diseases of the skin and soft tissue can develop virtually anywhere in the body, extremities, the trunk, the retroperitoneum, the head, and the neck. Our study aims to review skin and soft tissue specimens from our centre describing the histopathological patterns.
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Does palliative chemotherapy really palliate and are we measuring it correctly? A mixed methods longitudinal study of health related quality of life in advanced soft tissue sarcoma. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210731. [PMID: 31557183 PMCID: PMC6762058 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is a rare cancer type that when locally advanced or metastatic, is predominantly treated with palliative chemotherapy with the aim of improving both quantity and quality of life. Given modest survival data after commencing first line chemotherapy, this study examines (i) what constitutes health related quality of life (HRQoL), (ii) whether the most commonly used HRQoL assessment tool measures this and (iii) to what extent HRQoL, and its components, change during and after treatment. Design Mixed-methods longitudinal study of 66 sarcoma patients living with STS (42 commencing chemotherapy, 24 under surveillance after completing chemotherapy) involving serial EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaires and nested-qualitative semi-structured interviews with a sub-sample of participants. EORTC QLQ-C30 score change from baseline to primary evaluation point was examined using a paired t-test. Interviews were analysed using the framework approach before both datasets were integrated. Results Five main factors, including control of pain, were identified by study participants as important components of HRQoL; these are examined within the EORTC QLQ-C30. However, others e.g. independence loss and common causes of anxiety, are not. Whilst social and psychological domains are addressed by the EORTC QLQ-C30, the quantitative change over time did reflect qualitative descriptions of decline. The mean overall EORTC QLQ-C30 HRQoL score deteriorated from baseline (60.4) to the primary evaluation point (50.2) [change of -10.2, t-test: -2.70, p = 0.01] for those receiving chemotherapy; this was in concordance with patients’ qualitative accounts. Baseline overall HRQoL scores were higher in the surveillance group suggesting a correlation with chemotherapy response and longer-term improvement in HRQoL. The evidence from both HRQoL scores and qualitative accounts indicated that the presence and control of physical symptoms were particularly important in maintaining HRQoL. Whilst fatigue deteriorated on chemotherapy (baseline 41.7 to 52.8; change of +11.1, t-test +2.51, p<0.05), pain (baseline 41.5 to 32.1; change -9.4, t-test -2.06 p<0.05) and sleep disturbance (43.1 to 28.5; change -14.6, t-test –3.05, p<0.05) both improved. Conclusion A key finding was that the EORTC QLQ-C30 assesses some but not all of the patient-reported components of HRQoL in sarcoma patients highlighting the need for either STS specific modules within the EORTC QLQ-C30 or a completely new STS specific HRQoL tool. First line palliative chemotherapy improves specific symptoms known to be prevalent and to influence HRQoL in this patient group which in some patients may translate to sustained improvement in HRQoL: further exploration and validation of these findings in larger prospective studies are warranted.
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Cheng CS, Chen L, Xie J, Chen Z. Multimodality palliative treatment with transarterial chemoembolization and high-intensity focused ultrasound for gastric leiomyosarcoma multiple liver metastasis pain: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17328. [PMID: 31574868 PMCID: PMC6775330 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gastric leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare malignancy with minimal therapeutic options and has poor prognosis once metastasis develops. PATIENT CONCERNS A case of gastric LMS with multiple metastases, pain, and progressive anemia 13 months after the initial diagnosis in a 43-year-old woman. DIAGNOSIS Gastric LMS with liver metastases and multiple retroperitoneal lymphatic metastases. INTERVENTIONS Minimally invasive therapies of repeated tetrahydropalmatine and oxaliplatin-based transarterial chemoembolization and high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment were performed. OUTCOMES The treatments resulted in significant pain relief (numerical rating scale from 8-2 points) after the initial treatment, improvement in performance status and quality of life, and a progression-free survival of 4 months after treatment. CONCLUSION This combined modality palliative treatment approach was well tolerated with noticeable pain relief.
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Kawashima H, Ariizumi T, Yamagishi T, Ogose A, Ikoma M, Hotta T, Endo N. Symptom Burden and End-of-Life Palliative Treatments during the Last Two Weeks of Life in Patients with Advanced Musculoskeletal Sarcoma. J Palliat Med 2019; 22:908-914. [PMID: 30762454 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal sarcomas (MSSs) are rare cancers and often aggressive tumors that originate from mesenchymal tissue. Patients with advanced MSS often report difficulties with symptom burden, which can reduce their health-related quality-of-life. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the patterns of the physical symptoms of MSS patients in the palliative setting and to detail the palliative treatment used in the last two weeks of life. Design: Retrospective study using the electronic patient records from a single institution. Setting/Subjects: A retrospective study was carried out in a sample of 46 consecutive MSS patients with locally advanced/metastatic disease, who were hospitalized and died in our department. The median age of these patients was 56 years at death. Measurements: Symptom burden and medical intervention during the last two weeks of life were collected. Results: The most frequent physical symptoms were pain and dyspnea in 93% and 78% of patients, respectively, while only 17% of patients suffered from nausea. A total of 98% of patients required opioids, and most patients were treated with morphine through either subcutaneous or intravenous continuous injection. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen were administered to 79% of patients. Corticosteroids were administered for the relief of dyspnea to 83% of patients. Of the patients, 46% received palliative chemotherapy within the last two weeks of life, and the oral treatment was continued until a median of 5.6 days before death. In addition, 39% of patients received a sedative treatment during the last two weeks of life for uncontrolled refractory symptoms. Conclusions: The symptom burden experienced by advanced MSS patients is profound at the end of life for all palliative approaches. Therefore, palliative medicine is an important and even crucial component of the continuum of care, allowing for aggressive symptom management with a variety of medical interventions, including palliative sedation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Kawashima
- 1Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,2Palliative Care Team, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takashi Ariizumi
- 1Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Yamagishi
- 1Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akira Ogose
- 3Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Uonuma Kikan Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Miho Ikoma
- 2Palliative Care Team, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata, Japan.,4Division of Palliative Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Hotta
- 1Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Naoto Endo
- 1Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
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Hewitt L, Powell R, Zenginer K, Coyle C, Murray H, Cooper L, Gregory J. Patient Perceptions of the Impact of Treatment (Surgery and Radiotherapy) for Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Sarcoma 2019; 2019:9581781. [PMID: 31049021 PMCID: PMC6462335 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9581781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Treatment for soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is challenging for patients. This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of patients' experiences of STS treatment, including whether the sequence of treatment (preoperative or postoperative radiotherapy) influences patient perceptions. METHODS Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with nineteen patients who had been treated for STS with surgery and radiotherapy between 2011 and 2016. Topics discussed included perceptions of treatment, social support, and coping mechanisms. Qualitative, inductive, thematic analysis was conducted and structured using the Framework approach. RESULTS Treatment sequence itself did not appear to cause concern, but uncertainty regarding treatment and side effects could negatively impact participants. Social relationships and individual coping strategies influenced participants' experiences of treatment. CONCLUSIONS Participants' perceptions of the treatment process varied; the experience was highly individual. It is important to ensure individual psychosocial and information needs are met. In particular, the removal of uncertainty regarding treatment is important in supporting patients undergoing treatment for soft tissue sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Hewitt
- School of Health Sciences & Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachael Powell
- School of Health Sciences & Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kaan Zenginer
- School of Health Sciences & Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Helen Murray
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Lisa Cooper
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Jonathan Gregory
- The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Molecular and Clinical Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Devlin SM, Murphy JD, Yeung HN. A Retrospective Analysis of Pain Burden in Hospitalized Young Adult Cancer Patients Compared with Their Older Adult Counterpart. J Palliat Med 2018; 22:307-309. [PMID: 30383470 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Research shows an increased symptom burden in young adult (YA) cancer patients compared with their older adult counterpart. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to identify differences in clinical characteristics and related outcomes between YA and older adult cancer patients admitted for cancer-related pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively identified 190 hospitalized patients in a single academic center with admissions for cancer-related pain. Patients were grouped into either "young adult" (18-39) or "older adult" (>40) cohorts. We compared differences in patient characteristics and pain regimens. RESULTS Median oral morphine equivalent per 24 hours was higher in the YA group (194 mg vs. 70 mg, p = 0.010). Younger patients received patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) more frequently (p = 0.023). The number of palliative care consults and adjuvants prescribed did not differ between groups (p > 0.05), although YAs more frequently had an inpatient pain anesthesia consult (p = 0.047). CONCLUSION Findings show increased opioid requirements and PCA use in YAs being treated for malignancy compared with their older adult counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Devlin
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, California
| | - James D Murphy
- 2 Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, California
| | - Heidi N Yeung
- 3 Division of Palliative Medicine and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, California
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Younger E, Husson O, Bennister L, Whelan J, Wilson R, Roast A, Jones RL, van der Graaf WT. Age-related sarcoma patient experience: results from a national survey in England. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:991. [PMID: 30333006 PMCID: PMC6192120 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4866-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sarcomas are rare, heterogeneous tumours affecting patients of any age. Previous surveys describe that sarcoma patients report a significantly worse experience than those with common cancers. Consequently, Sarcoma UK conducted a national survey and these data were examined for age- and tumour-related differences in patients’ experiences. Methods Patients were randomly selected from respondents to National Cancer Patient Experience Surveys (n = 900). Differences between patient groups according to age (Adolescents and Young Adults [AYA] 18–39 years, middle-aged 40–64 years, elderly 65 + years) and tumour type (soft-tissue [STS] vs. bone]) were analysed with t-tests or chi-square tests. Results Survey response rate was 62% (n = 558; STS 75%, bone sarcoma 25%). Delay in diagnosis was reported; 27% patients (n = 150) waited > 3 months and initial symptoms were incorrectly interpreted; AYA STS patients were significantly more likely to be treated for another condition, or advised that their symptoms were not serious, than older STS patients. Clinical trial participation was low (6%, n = 35). Symptom burden was high, most commonly daytime fatigue (48%, n = 277) and pain (44%, n = 248). AYAs were significantly more likely to report most side-effects and post-treatment concerns than older patients. Elderly patients were more satisfied with the information and emotional support provided than younger patients, however were significantly less likely to be referred to rehabilitation services. Conclusions This study identifies significant age-related differences in the sarcoma patient journey, which are not only related to variation in tumour-types. These results provide rationale for adopting an age-specific approach to the management of sarcoma patients in order to improve overall patient experience. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-018-4866-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olga Husson
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK.,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | | | - Jeremy Whelan
- University College London Hospital (UCLH), London, NW1 2BU, UK
| | - Roger Wilson
- Sarcoma UK Registered Cancer Charity, London, N1 6AH, UK
| | - Andy Roast
- Sarcoma UK Registered Cancer Charity, London, N1 6AH, UK
| | - Robin L Jones
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK.,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Winette Ta van der Graaf
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK. .,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK.
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23
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Health Care Resource Utilization and Costs among Adult Patients with Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Retrospective Medical Record Review in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and France. Sarcoma 2018; 2018:2020591. [PMID: 30297977 PMCID: PMC6157208 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2020591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe health care resource utilization and costs for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) in the United Kingdom (UK), Spain, Germany, and France. Methods Physicians abstracted data for adult patients with a diagnosis of advanced STS (other than Kaposi's sarcoma or gastrointestinal stromal tumor) who received ≥1 lines of systemic therapy. Health care resource utilization related to advanced STS treatment was recorded; associated costs were estimated by applying unit costs. Results A total of 130 physicians provided data for 807 patients (UK: 199; Spain: 203; Germany: 204; and France: 201). The site of care during active treatment varied based on differences in the health care systems of these four countries. Total mean per-patient health care cost in the UK was £19,457; in Spain, €26,814; in Germany, €20,468; and in France, €24,368. Advanced STS-related systemic treatment costs were driven primarily by drug acquisition and administration costs. Treatment-related costs increased during later lines of therapy for all countries except France, where they decreased after first-line therapy. Pain control and antiemetics were the most common supportive care medications. Conclusions This study provides real-world data on resource utilization and estimated costs in advanced STS and could inform policymakers about treatment burden.
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Brodowicz T, Mir O, Wallet J, Italiano A, Blay JY, Bertucci F, Eisterer W, Chevreau C, Piperno-Neumann S, Bompas E, Ryckewaert T, Liegl-Antzwager B, Thery J, Penel N, Le Cesne A, Le Deley MC. Efficacy and safety of regorafenib compared to placebo and to post-cross-over regorafenib in advanced non-adipocytic soft tissue sarcoma. Eur J Cancer 2018; 99:28-36. [PMID: 29902612 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The placebo-controlled phase-2 REGOSARC trial demonstrated the efficacy of regorafenib in patients with leiomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma and other non-adipocytic sarcoma but not in liposarcoma. Patients initially allocated to placebo were allowed to receive regorafenib after progression. We report here an updated analysis of the trial including evaluation of regorafenib activity after cross-over. METHODS From June 2013 to December 2014, 139 patients were enrolled in the non-adipocytic sarcoma cohorts. Median follow-up is now 32.4 months. Benefit of regorafenib versus placebo in terms of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) from randomisation was estimated by hazard ratio (HR) in Cox models. In the placebo arm, intra-patient benefit of regorafenib after cross-over was evaluated by the growth modulation index (GMI) (GMI was here, for each patient, PFS after cross-over regorafenib divided by PFS with placebo). Furthermore, the activity of delayed (after cross-over) versus early (at study entry) regorafenib was evaluated by comparing PFS after cross-over to regorafenib to PFS after randomisation in the regorafenib arm. RESULTS PFS benefit of regorafenib as compared to placebo was confirmed with longer follow-up (HR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.35-0.71; p < .0001). OS was not statistically significant different (HR = 0.78; 0.54-1.12; p = .18). This finding may partially be explained by the fact that 55/68 patients who progressed on placebo (81%) received cross-over Regorafenib after progression: 59% of them had a GMI ≥ 1.3 (95% CI, 45-71%). Delayed start of regorafenib was associated with a statistically non-significant shorter PFS as compared to early treatment (HR = 1.21; 0.84-1.73; p = .30) without impact on OS. CONCLUSIONS Observed PFS confirms that regorafenib warrants further clinical investigation in refractory non-adipocytic sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Brodowicz
- Department of Medicine /Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, General Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center - MusculoSkeletalTumorUnit, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Sarcoma Platform Austria, Austria.
| | - Olivier Mir
- Department of Medical Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, 94800 Villejuif, France.
| | - Jennifer Wallet
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Oscar Lambret, 3 rue Combemale, 59000 Lille, France.
| | - Antoine Italiano
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, 229 Cours de l'Argonne, 33000 Bordeaux, France; Department of Medicine, Institut Bergonié, 229 Cours de l'Argonne, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
| | - Jean-Yves Blay
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, 28 rue Laennec, 69008, Lyon, France; Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, 43 boulevard du 11 novembre 1918, 69622, Villeurbanne cedex, France.
| | - François Bertucci
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Paoli Calmette, 232 Boulevard de Sainte-Marguerite, 13009 Marseille, France.
| | - Wolfgang Eisterer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Feschnigstraße 11, 9020 Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria; Sarcoma Platform Austria, Austria.
| | - Christine Chevreau
- Department of Medical Oncology, IUCT Oncopole, 1 Av. Irène Joliot-Curie, 31100 Toulouse, France.
| | | | - Emmanuelle Bompas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre René Gauducheau, St. Herblain, Saint-Herblain, France.
| | - Thomas Ryckewaert
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Oscar Lambret, Lille, France.
| | - Bernadette Liegl-Antzwager
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; Sarcoma Platform Austria, Austria.
| | - Julien Thery
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Oscar Lambret, 3 rue Combemale, 59000 Lille, France.
| | - Nicolas Penel
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Oscar Lambret, 3 rue Combemale, 59000 Lille, France; Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Oscar Lambret, Lille, France; Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital, 3 rue Combemale, 59000 Lille, France.
| | - Axel Le Cesne
- Department of Medical Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, 94800 Villejuif, France.
| | - Marie-Cécile Le Deley
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Oscar Lambret, 3 rue Combemale, 59000 Lille, France; Paris-Saclay University, Univ. Paris-Sud, CESP, INSERM, Gustave Roussy, 94805 Villejuif, France.
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Treatment Patterns and Survival among Adult Patients with Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Retrospective Medical Record Review in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and France. Sarcoma 2018; 2018:5467057. [PMID: 29977133 PMCID: PMC5994280 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5467057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe real-world treatment patterns and outcomes for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) not amenable to surgery or radiotherapy in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and France. Methods Physicians completed a web-based medical record abstraction for adult patients with advanced STS (other than Kaposi's sarcoma or gastrointestinal stromal tumor) who received ≥1 line of systemic therapy. Clinical characteristics, treatments, tumor responses, and mortality data were recorded. Results A total of 130 physicians provided data for 807 patients. Patients' mean age at advanced STS diagnosis was 57.1 (±12.3) years; 59% were male. The most commonly identified histologic categories were leiomyosarcoma (28%), liposarcoma (13%), and rhabdomyosarcoma (11%). Overall, 57% of patients received only 1 line of therapy, 32% received 2 lines of therapy, and 11% received ≥3 lines of therapy. The most common first-line regimens were doxorubicin alone (41%), doxorubicin plus ifosfamide (19%), docetaxel plus gemcitabine (9%), paclitaxel alone (4%), and ifosfamide (4%). Median overall survival from start of treatment was estimated to be 17.6 months (95% confidence interval, 15.6–19.0 months). Conclusions In real-world clinical practice, advanced STS is most commonly treated with older therapies in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and France. New therapies that improve overall survival in advanced STS are needed.
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Jones RL, Cesne AL. Quality of life and patients’ expectations in soft tissue sarcoma. Future Oncol 2018; 14:51-62. [DOI: 10.2217/fon-2018-0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is essential for holistic care. Greater efforts are required to incorporate HRQoL measures into clinical trials and daily practice. Considerable HRQoL data are available for localized soft tissue sarcomas (STS), particularly in the orthopedic setting. In future, HRQoL is expected to become increasingly important in the evaluation of palliative therapy in advanced STS. A patient-centric approach is advocated for STS management. Greater awareness of STS by nonspecialist clinicians, and timely referral to specialized sarcoma reference centers, is crucial for patient welfare. The patient is central to shared decision-making during consultations and during case review in tumor boards. The management approach to STS should be collaborative, involving a multidisciplinary team, multiple centers and patient advocacy groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin L Jones
- Royal Marsden Hospital, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Axel Le Cesne
- Department of Medical Oncology, Gustave Roussy, 114 Rue Edouard Vaillant, 94805 Villejuif, France
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Using PROMs in Healthcare: Who Should Be in the Driving Seat-Policy Makers, Health Professionals, Methodologists or Patients? PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2018; 9:495-498. [PMID: 27646693 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-016-0197-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Winnette R, Hess LM, Nicol SJ, Tai DF, Copley-Merriman C. The Patient Experience with Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Systematic Review of the Literature. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2017; 10:153-162. [PMID: 27744499 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-016-0200-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a heterogenous group of rare tumors that involve the connective tissue in the body (e.g. muscle, tendons). As with many rare tumors, little is known about the impact of STS on patient well-being. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to better understand current knowledge related to patient experience and quality of life (QOL) following diagnosis of STS. METHODS A systematic review of English-language articles published from 2005 to 2015 was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, and Evidence-Based Medicine databases. The review included recent conference proceedings and advocacy websites. Articles were eligible if they included adult STS patient-reported outcomes (PROs) or details on patient experience. RESULTS Overall, 3430 articles were identified and 20 were eligible for inclusion. Of these, 14 were clinical studies that included PRO measures, 1 summarized PRO measures used in STS studies, and 5 described the STS patient experience. Patients with STS report a range of impacts on QOL, including emotional well-being, body image, functional deficit following surgery, and practical considerations such as child care and work. CONCLUSIONS Few studies have published either qualitative or quantitative data on the patient experience with STS. While STS has a measurable impact on QOL, there is a lack of detailed information in the published literature. Although PROs are used in clinical studies of STS, they are not STS-specific and may not capture the unique needs of this population. There is a need for qualitative research to better understand both patient and caregiver experiences in STS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa M Hess
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Schuler M, Richter S, Ehninger G, Bornhäuser M, Hentschel L. A cluster-randomised, controlled proof-of-concept study to explore the feasibility and effect of a patient-directed intervention on quality of life in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e014614. [PMID: 28667207 PMCID: PMC5734294 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-014614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Even with evolving and expanding therapeutical options for the treatment of advanced sarcomas over recent years, the balance between efficacy and toxicity still remains a major concern. Moreover, the symptom burden in patients with sarcoma remains high compared with other malignant diseases. It is, therefore, crucial to assess treatment effectiveness not only in terms of disease-related outcomes (eg, overall survival) but also from an individual and patient-centred perspective using the assessment of patient-reported outcomes (PROs). By focusing on PROs as a primary study endpoint, we aim to address key issues for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) undergoing palliative treatment. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The protocol of the YonLife study describes a multicentre, cluster-randomised, controlled, open-label proof-of-concept study conducted in patients with advanced or metastatic STS treated with trabectedin in seven German hospitals. The primary objective of the study is to exploratively compare overall quality of life between the patients receiving a multidimensional intervention based on individual PROs and those receiving usual supportive treatment. This complex intervention consists of the (1) electronic assessment of PRO, (2) creation of a case vignette based on PRO and clinical data and (3) treatment suggestions based on the discussion of these vignettes in a regularly meeting expert panel. Additionally, the YonLife trial assesses the applicability of a tablet-based assessment of PROs. Patients' and physicians' acceptance and challenges concerning the implementation process will be evaluated. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The YonLife trial has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the University Hospital Dresden as well as by the relevant institutions of each participating centre before patient enrolment. The findings will be reported via relevant peer-reviewed journals as well as through presentation at international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02204111, pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Schuler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Helios Hospital Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephan Richter
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerhard Ehninger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Bornhäuser
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Leopold Hentschel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Olaratumab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that blocks the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα). Its antagonistic behavior inhibits the receptor's tyrosine kinase activity, thereby, turning off the downstream signaling cascades responsible for soft tissue sarcoma tumorigenesis. In October 2016, olaratumab received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its use in combination with doxorubicin for treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcoma. Areas covered: This drug profile takes a comprehensive look at the clinical studies leading to FDA approval of olaratumab as well as its safety and efficacy as a front-line treatment option for sarcoma patients. The literature search was primarily conducted using PubMed. Expert commentary: The combination of olaratumab plus doxorubicin has provided a new front-line therapeutic option for soft tissue sarcoma patients. An open-label phase Ib and randomized phase II trial in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma demonstrated that the addition of olaratumab to doxorubicin prolonged progression-free survival by 2.5 months and overall survival by 11.8 months when compared to doxorubicin alone. Of importance, this clinically meaningful increase in overall survival did not come at the expense of a significantly greater number of toxicities. A phase III confirmatory trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02451943) will be completed in 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Tobias
- a Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science , North Chicago , IL , USA
| | | | - Mark Agulnik
- c Division of Hematology/Oncology , Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
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Berry V, Basson L, Bogart E, Mir O, Blay JY, Italiano A, Bertucci F, Chevreau C, Clisant-Delaine S, Liegl-Antzager B, Tresch-Bruneel E, Wallet J, Taieb S, Decoupigny E, Le Cesne A, Brodowicz T, Penel N. REGOSARC: Regorafenib versus placebo in doxorubicin-refractory soft-tissue sarcoma-A quality-adjusted time without symptoms of progression or toxicity analysis. Cancer 2017; 123:2294-2302. [PMID: 28295221 PMCID: PMC5485075 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.30661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a placebo‐controlled, randomized phase 2 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01900743), regorafenib improved progression‐free survival (PFS) for patients with doxorubicin‐pretreated advanced nonadipocytic sarcoma. A quality‐adjusted time without symptoms of progression or toxicity (Q‐TWiST) post hoc exploratory analysis was applied to provide an integrated measure of its clinical benefit. METHODS In the base‐case analysis, each patient's overall survival (OS) was partitioned into 3 mutually exclusive health states: the time with a grade 3 or 4 adverse event (TOX), the time without symptoms of disease or grade 3 or 4 toxicity from treatment, and the time after tumor progression or relapse. The time spent in each state was weighted with a health‐state utility associated with that state and was summed to calculate the Q‐TWiST. The stability of the base‐case analysis was explored with several sensitivity analyses. RESULTS In nonadipocytic sarcoma, the PFS was (4.0 months [2.6‐5.5 months] with regorafenib vs 1.0 month [0.9‐1.8 months] with a placebo; hazard ratio, 0.36 [0.25‐0.53]; P < .0001); the OS was 13.4 months (8.6‐17.3 months) with regorafenib and 9.0 months (6.8‐12.5 months) with a placebo (hazard ratio, 0.67 [0.44‐1.02]). With the classic definition of TOX (including all grade 3 and 4 clinical adverse events), the Q‐TWiSTs were 8.0 months (7.0‐9.0 months) with regorafenib and 5.7 months (4.9‐6.4 months) with a placebo (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS For patients with doxorubicin‐pretreated soft‐tissue sarcoma, regorafenib significantly improved quality‐adjusted survival in comparison with a placebo. Cancer 2017;123:2294–2302. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes. In patients with doxorubicin‐pretreated nonadipocytic soft‐tissue sarcoma, regorafenib significantly improves quality‐adjusted survival in comparison with a placebo (8.0 vs 5.7 mo; P < .001). See also pages 2200‐2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Berry
- Medical Oncology Department, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France.,Methodology and Clinical Research Platform, SIRIC OncoLille, Lille, France
| | - Laurent Basson
- Biostatisitics and Methodology Unit, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France
| | - Emilie Bogart
- Biostatisitics and Methodology Unit, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France
| | - Olivier Mir
- Medical Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Jean-Yves Blay
- Medical Oncology Department, Léon Bérard Center, Lyon, France
| | - Antoine Italiano
- Medical Oncology Department, Bergonié Institute, Bordeaux, France
| | - François Bertucci
- Medical Oncology Department, Paoli-Calmette Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Christine Chevreau
- Medical Oncology Department, University Cancer Institute of Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphanie Clisant-Delaine
- Methodology and Clinical Research Platform, SIRIC OncoLille, Lille, France.,Clinical Research Unit, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France
| | | | | | - Jennifer Wallet
- Biostatisitics and Methodology Unit, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France
| | - Sophie Taieb
- Radiology Department, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France
| | - Emilie Decoupigny
- Methodology and Clinical Research Platform, SIRIC OncoLille, Lille, France.,Clinical Research Unit, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France
| | - Axel Le Cesne
- Medical Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Nicolas Penel
- Medical Oncology Department, Oscar Lambret Center, Lille, France.,Methodology and Clinical Research Platform, SIRIC OncoLille, Lille, France
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Husson O, Jones RL. Q-TWiST: What really matters to the cancer patient? Cancer 2017; 123:2200-2202. [PMID: 28294292 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.30662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Husson
- Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Robin L Jones
- Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
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Gough N, Koffman J, Ross JR, Riley J, Judson I. Symptom Burden in Advanced Soft-Tissue Sarcoma. J Pain Symptom Manage 2017; 53:588-597. [PMID: 28042077 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2016.10.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT There is little information on symptom prevalence and severity in advanced soft-tissue sarcoma (STS). Understanding symptom burden will aid clinical consultations, clarify which symptom interventions are needed, and better define optimum timings of palliative and supportive care referrals. OBJECTIVES To describe symptom prevalence and severity in patients undergoing different treatment options for advanced STS: 1) first-line palliative chemotherapy (FLC), 2) active surveillance (AS) pre- and post-FLC, and 3) palliative care (PC) alone. METHODS Cross-sectional survey in one sarcoma center using the patient-reported Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale-Short Form (MSAS-SF). Symptom prevalence, severity, and MSAS-SF subscales were recorded before commencing a new treatment. Our results were compared with other MSAS-SF cancer and noncancer data. RESULTS One-hundred and thirteen patients (mean age, 59 years) were recruited. Forty-two commenced FLC, 27 started AS pre-FLC, 24 AS post-FLC, and 20 PC alone. Median overall number of reported symptoms was 11 (range 1-31): which when stratified by treatment meant AS pre-FLC < AS post-FLC < FLC < PC alone (most symptomatic). The commonest physical symptoms were pain (77%; 95% CI 68-84), lack of energy (73%; CI 63-81) difficulty sleeping (56%; CI 46-65), feeling bloated (49%; CI 39-58), and dyspnea (49%; CI 39-58). Distress levels were commensurated with prevalence except for dyspnea, which was disproportionally less distressing. Psychological distress was moderate (mean MSAS-PSYCH: 1.39) but higher than comparative cancer data. CONCLUSION Advanced STS patients have a clinically important symptom burden comparable to other cancers. Common symptoms should be screened and addressed appropriately, including timely PC involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Gough
- Royal Marsden and Royal Brompton Palliative Care Service, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.
| | - Jonathan Koffman
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Kings College London, Cicely Saunders Institute, London, UK
| | - Joy R Ross
- Royal Marsden and Royal Brompton Palliative Care Service, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Julia Riley
- Royal Marsden and Royal Brompton Palliative Care Service, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Ian Judson
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Barata PC, Cardoso A, Custodio MP, Alves M, Papoila AL, António B, Lawlor PG. Symptom clusters and survival in Portuguese patients with advanced cancer. Cancer Med 2016; 5:2731-2739. [PMID: 27624994 PMCID: PMC5083726 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 07/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify clusters of symptoms, to determine the patient characteristics associated with identified, and determine their strength of association with survival in patients with advanced cancer (ACPs). Consecutively eligible ACPs not receiving cancer‐specific treatment, and referred to a Tertiary Palliative Care Clinic, were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. At first consultation, patients rated 9 symptoms through the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (0–10 scale) and 10 others using a Likert scale (1–5). Principal component analysis was used in an exploratory factor analysis to identify. Of 318 ACPs, 301 met eligibility criteria with a median (range) age of 69 (37–94) years. Three SCs were identified: neuro‐psycho‐metabolic (NPM) (tiredness, lack of appetite, lack of well−being, dyspnea, depression, and anxiety); gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting, constipation, hiccups, and dry mouth) and sleep impairment (insomnia and sleep disturbance). Exploratory factor analysis accounted for 40% of variance of observed variables in all SCs. Shorter survival was observed for patients with the NPM cluster (58 vs. 23, P < 0.001), as well as for patients with two or more SCs (45 vs. 21, P = 0.005). In a multivariable model for survival at 30‐days, age (HR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97–0.99; P = 0.008), hospitalization at inclusion (HR: 2.27; 95% CI: 1.47–3.51; P < 0.001), poorer performance status (HR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.24–2.89; P = 0.003), and NPM (HR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.17–2.31; P = 0.005), were associated with worse survival. Three clinically meaningful SC in patients with advanced cancer were identifiable. The NPM cluster and the presence of two or more SCs, had prognostic value in relation to survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro C Barata
- Medical Oncology, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Alice Cardoso
- Palliative Care, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria P Custodio
- Medical Oncology, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Alves
- Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana L Papoila
- Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Barbosa António
- Centre of Bioethics, Faculty of Medicine, Lisbon University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Peter G Lawlor
- Bruyere Continuing Care, Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Bruyere and Ottawa Hospital Research Institutes, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Abstract
Patients in advanced stages of illness trajectories with local and widespread musculoskeletal incurable malignancies, either treatment naive or having recurrence are referred to the palliative care clinic to relieve various disease-related symptoms and to improve the quality of life. Palliative care is a specialized medicine that offers treatment to the disease-specific symptoms, places emphasis on the psychosocial and spiritual aspects of life and help the patients and their family to cope with advance stage cancer in a stronger and reasonable way. The overall outcome of musculoskeletal malignancies has improved with the advent of multidisciplinary management. Even then these tumors do relapse and leads to organ failures and disease-specific deaths in children and young adults in productive age group thus requiring an integrated approach to improve the supportive/palliative care needs in end-stage disease. In this article, we would like to discuss the spectrum of presentation of advanced musculoskeletal malignancies, skeletal metastasis, and their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Gulia
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology (Bone and Soft Tissue Services), Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Suman Byregowda
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology (Bone and Soft Tissue Services), Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Pankaj Kumar Panda
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology (Bone and Soft Tissue Services), Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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van den Beuken-van Everdingen MHJ, Hochstenbach LMJ, Joosten EAJ, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Janssen DJA. Update on Prevalence of Pain in Patients With Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pain Symptom Manage 2016; 51:1070-1090.e9. [PMID: 27112310 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2015.12.340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 956] [Impact Index Per Article: 119.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Revised: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Cancer pain has a severe impact on quality of life and is associated with numerous psychosocial responses. Recent studies suggest that treatment of cancer pain has improved during the last decade. OBJECTIVES The aim of this review was to examine the present status of pain prevalence and pain severity in patients with cancer. METHODS A systematic search of the literature published between September 2005 and January 2014 was performed using the databases PubMed, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane. Articles in English or Dutch that reported on the prevalence of cancer pain in an adult population were included. Titles and abstracts were screened by two authors independently, after which full texts were evaluated and assessed on methodological quality. Study details and pain characteristics were extracted from the articles with adequate study quality. Prevalence rates were pooled with meta-analysis; meta-regression was performed to explore determinants of pain prevalence. RESULTS Of 4117 titles, 122 studies were selected for the meta-analyses on pain (117 studies, n = 63,533) and pain severity (52 studies, n = 32,261). Pain prevalence rates were 39.3% after curative treatment; 55.0% during anticancer treatment; and 66.4% in advanced, metastatic, or terminal disease. Moderate to severe pain (numerical rating scale score ≥5) was reported by 38.0% of all patients. CONCLUSION Despite increased attention on assessment and management, pain continues to be a prevalent symptom in patients with cancer. In the upcoming decade, we need to overcome barriers toward effective pain treatment and develop and implement interventions to optimally manage pain in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke H J van den Beuken-van Everdingen
- Center of Expertise for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Laura M J Hochstenbach
- School for Public Health and Primary Care (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Health Services Research, Maastricht University (UM), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elbert A J Joosten
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; School of Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Vivianne C G Tjan-Heijnen
- School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daisy J A Janssen
- Center of Expertise for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Research and Education, Center of Expertise for Chronic Organ Failure, CIRO+, Horn, The Netherlands
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Gough N, Ross JR, Riley J, Judson I, Koffman J. ‘When something is this rare … how do you know bad really is bad…?’—views on prognostic discussions from patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2015; 9:100-107. [DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2015-000898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
ObjectivesPrognostic disclosure among patients with cancer permits open informed discussion about treatment preferences and encourages advance care planning. In rare cancers such as soft tissue sarcoma, discussions regarding prognostication are challenging. Little is known about the consequences of this for patients or their preferences for such information. This qualitative study explores patient-centered accounts of the value and timing of prognostic discussions.Methods24 semistructured interviews were conducted with soft tissue sarcoma patients attending one London cancer centre: 66% female, median age 53 (range 19–82). The study was cross-sectional and participants were at different stages of the advanced disease trajectory. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using the framework approach.ResultsAll participants understood the incurable nature of advanced sarcoma. However, prognostic discussions were rare, always patient initiated and did not include known survival data, despite direct participant enquiry. Most participants did not wish to discuss prognosis at initial diagnosis but wished to be offered the opportunity to discuss this at intervals of disease progression, despite reservations it may not be helpful. Participants expected discussions to be clinician initiated. Three themes emerged to explain this position and included (1) Rarity causing prognostic uncertainty referring to patient belief that prognostication in rare cancers was less likely to be accurate than for common tumours; (2) Avoiding the negatives referring to a wish not to hear unfavourable information and (3) Physical symptoms a better prognostic indicator than ‘physician guess’.ConclusionsAlthough 17/24 participants preferred not to discuss prognosis at initial diagnosis, they wished to have the opportunity to revisit prognostic discussions at intervals of disease progression. This may facilitate better advance care planning and end of life care.
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Chan A, Lim E, Ng T, Shih V, Quek R, Cheung YT. Symptom burden and medication use in adult sarcoma patients. Support Care Cancer 2014; 23:1709-17. [PMID: 25430481 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-014-2533-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Limited data are available on how symptom burden affects health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with sarcoma. This study aims to describe the symptom burden, HRQoL, and medication use in adult sarcoma patients. METHODS A single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted, and 79 patients were evaluated using three tools: the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist (RSCL), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy scale-General (FACT-G). Patients' demographic and clinical information, medication history, and use of concomitant medications were recorded. The proportion of patients with clinically significant RSCL score for a particular symptom was compared with the percentage of patients receiving medication for that symptom. RESULTS The mean age was 57.3 ± 15.2 years, with majority of the patients diagnosed with stromal tumor (46.8 %), leiomyosarcoma (15.2 %), and liposarcoma (10.1 %). The most prevalent physical symptoms experienced were tiredness (2.38 ± 1.00), lack of energy (2.04 ± 1.02), and difficulty sleeping (2.00 ± 1.15). The most common psychological symptoms experienced were irritability (1.92 ± 1.01), worrying (1.86 ± 0.90), and anxiety (1.68 ± 0.74). Few (6.3 %) patients received hypnotics while 33.0 % of patients reported difficulty sleeping. A proportion of patients (27.9 %) reported experiencing lack of appetite with only 1.3 % received appetite stimulants. CONCLUSION Adult sarcoma patients experience significant physiological and psychological symptom burden, which has a strong negative impact on HRQoL, with a number of physiological symptoms undertreated with pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Chan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, 18 Science 4, Block S4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore,
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Ratnavelu K, Subramani B, Pullai CR, Krishnan K, Sugadan SD, Rao MS, Veerakumarasivam A, Deng X, Hiroshi T. Autologous immune enhancement therapy against an advanced epithelioid sarcoma: A case report. Oncol Lett 2013; 5:1457-1460. [PMID: 23761810 PMCID: PMC3678875 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2013.1247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare types of cancer are often not effectively treated by approaches such as chemotherapy and radio-therapy, although their side-effects persist. Immunotherapy has been gaining attention worldwide with growing examples of its anticancer activity demonstrated in vivo. This case report describes a 35-year-old male who suffered from advanced epithelioid sarcoma and underwent 18 cycles of chemotherapy without any significant response, who suffered adverse effects that caused lung collapse. A notable response was observed following the administration of autologous immune enhancement therapy (AIET), which involves a process of isolation, activation and expansion of natural killer (NK) and T cells, which were obtained from the patient’s own (autologous) peripheral blood. With the present data and the response of the patient to AIET, it may be proposed that AIET is beneficial for patients suffering from advanced epithelioid sarcoma without producing adverse effects.
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