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Ng IAT, Tan HJ, Chiow AKH, Nita T. Surgical management of rare hepatobiliary sarcomas in a regional teaching hospital: a collaborative model for optimal care with case studies. BMJ Case Rep 2024; 17:e260975. [PMID: 39266040 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-260975] [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] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are challenging and conventionally referred to sarcoma specialist centres. In select cases with required surgical expertise, collaboration with a quaternary sarcoma centre rather than an upfront transfer of care may reduce logistic challenges without compromising patient care.We present a case series of three rare tumours of hepatobiliary origin-two cases of undifferentiated embryonal liver sarcoma in adults and one case of follicular dendritic sarcoma of the cystic lymph node.All three patients underwent surgery in a non-sarcoma specialist centre by hepatobiliary specialist surgeons with concurrent remote referrals to a sarcoma specialist quaternary centre. Both centres belong to the same cluster. R0 resection and no significant postoperative morbidity were achieved. All three patients currently remain disease-free.The unique and integrated healthcare systems within Singapore render cross-institution management possible. This case series suggests that an established setup for cross-centre collaboration facilitates wholistic patient care with good outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ai Ting Ng
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Hiang Jin Tan
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Adrian Kah Heng Chiow
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Thiruchelvam Nita
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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Syros A, Baron MC, Adalbert J, Remer HB, Heng M, Crawford B. Barriers to care for musculoskeletal sarcoma patients: a public health perspective. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1399471. [PMID: 39234070 PMCID: PMC11373356 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1399471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study seeks to investigate the barriers to care that exist for patients presenting with sarcomas of musculoskeletal origin. Understanding the roots of delays in care for patients with musculoskeletal sarcoma is particularly important given the necessity of prompt treatment for oncologic diagnoses. Investigators reviewed relevant studies of publications reporting barriers to care in patients undergoing diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal tumors. Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and PubMed-MEDLINE. Twenty publications were analyzed, including a total of 114,056 patients. Results Four barrier subtypes were identified: Socioeconomic Status, Geographic Location, Healthcare Quality, Sociocultural Factors. Socioeconomic status included access to health insurance and income level. Geographic location included distance traveled by patients, access to referral centers, type of hospital system and resource-challenged environments. Healthcare quality included substandard imaging, access to healthcare resources, and healthcare utilization prior to diagnosis. Sociocultural factors included psychological states, nutrition, education and social support. Conclusion After identifying the most significant barriers in this study, we can target specific public health issues within our community that may reduce delays in care. The assessment of barriers to care is an important first step for improving the delivery of oncologic patient care to this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Syros
- Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Residency Program, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Max C Baron
- Department of Education, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Jenna Adalbert
- Department of Orthopedics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Hallie B Remer
- Department of Education, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Marilyn Heng
- Department of Orthopedics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Brooke Crawford
- Department of Orthopedics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
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3
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Holthuis EI, van der Graaf WTA, Drabbe C, van Houdt WJ, Schrage YM, Hartman TCO, Uijen AA, Bos I, Heins M, Husson O. The prediagnostic general practitioner care of sarcoma patients: A real-world data study. J Surg Oncol 2024; 130:265-275. [PMID: 38946219 DOI: 10.1002/jso.27757] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited understanding exists regarding early sarcoma symptoms presented during general practitioner (GP) consultations. The study explores GP visit patterns and recorded diagnoses in the 12 months preceding sarcoma diagnosis. METHODS Sarcoma cases diagnosed from 2010 to 2020 were identified through the Netherlands Cancer Registry alongside general practice data. Sarcoma cases were age and gender matched to cancer-free controls (2:1 or 1:1 ratio). RESULTS A total of 787 individuals with soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) and 188 individuals with bone sarcoma (BS) were identified. There was a significant difference in monthly GP contacts from 4 months to the last month before STS diagnosis, and 2 months before BS diagnosis between cases and controls. Most prevalent diagnoses recorded by the GP for STS cases included musculoskeletal neoplasm (26.6%), uncomplicated hypertension (15.6%), and cystitis/other urinary infections (12.2%). For BS cases, musculoskeletal neoplasm (42.8%), knee symptoms/complaints (9.7%), and shoulder symptoms/complaints (9.7%) were most frequent. CONCLUSIONS AND DISCUSSION A significant difference in GP contacts between cases and controls preceding sarcoma diagnosis. STS cases were predominantly diagnosed with nonspecific symptoms, whereas BS cases with diagnoses more suggestive of BS. Better understanding of the prediagnostic trajectory could aid GPs in early identification of sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily I Holthuis
- Medical Oncology Department, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Medical Oncology Department, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cas Drabbe
- Medical Oncology Department, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute of Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Winan J van Houdt
- Surgical Oncology Department, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne M Schrage
- Surgical Oncology Department, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim C Olde Hartman
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute of Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie A Uijen
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute of Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Bos
- Department of Primary Care, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Heins
- Department of Primary Care, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Medical Oncology Department, NKI-AVL - Netherlands Cancer Institute/Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Rafiq M, de Boer J, Mar J, Desai J, Bae S, Gyorki DE, Di Bella C, Lyratzopoulos G, Lewin JH, Emery J. Clinical activity in general practice before sarcoma diagnosis: an Australian cohort study. Br J Gen Pract 2024; 74:e508-e516. [PMID: 38527792 PMCID: PMC11221489 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2023.0610] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased time to diagnosis in sarcoma is associated with poor prognosis and patient outcomes. Research is needed to identify whether opportunities to expedite the diagnosis of sarcoma in general practice exist. AIM To examine pre-diagnostic GP clinical activity before sarcoma diagnosis. DESIGN AND SETTING An Australian retrospective cohort study using hospital registry data (Australian Comprehensive Cancer Outcomes and Research Database [ACCORD]) linked to two primary care datasets (Patron and MedicineInsight). METHOD The frequency of general practice healthcare utilisation events (general practice attendances, prescriptions, blood test, and imaging requests) were compared in 377 patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) and 64 patients with bone sarcoma (BS) in the year pre-diagnosis. Poisson regression models were used to calculate monthly incidence rate ratios (IRR) for the 24 months pre-diagnosis and estimate inflection points for when healthcare use started to increase from baseline. RESULTS In the 6 months pre-diagnosis, patients with sarcoma had a median of 3-4 general practice attendances, around one-third had a GP imaging request (33% [n = 21] BS and 36% [n = 134] STS), and approximately one in five had multiple imaging requests (19% [n = 12] BS and 21% [n = 80] STS). GP imaging requests progressively increased up to eight-fold from 6 months before sarcoma diagnosis (IRR 8.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.92 to 18.15, P<0.001) and general practice attendances increased from 3 months pre-diagnosis. CONCLUSION Patients with sarcoma have increased GP clinical activity from 6 months pre-diagnosis, indicating a diagnostic window where potential opportunities exist for earlier diagnosis. Interventions to help identify patients and promote appropriate use of imaging and direct specialist centre referrals could improve earlier diagnosis and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meena Rafiq
- Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia, and Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care (IECH), UCL, London, UK
| | - Jasper de Boer
- Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC), VCCC Alliance, and Australian and New Zealand Children's Haematology/Oncology Group (ANZCHOG), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jasmine Mar
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZSA), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jayesh Desai
- VCCC Alliance, and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susie Bae
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David E Gyorki
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Jeremy H Lewin
- VCCC Alliance, and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and ANZSA, and Victorian AYA Cancer Service, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Moore SF, Abel GA, Mounce LT. Challenges of diagnosing rare cancers in primary care. Br J Gen Pract 2024; 74:340-341. [PMID: 39054086 PMCID: PMC11299691 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp24x738789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah F Moore
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter
| | - Gary A Abel
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter
| | - Luke Ta Mounce
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter
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Evans D, Rothschild S, Tordella C, Chacón M. Leveraging Patient Engagement Through Collaboration for Improved Global Health Outcomes in Sarcoma. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2024; 44:e438934. [PMID: 38862132 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_438934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of oncology, collaborative efforts between the medical community and patient advocacy groups are pivotal in shaping standards of care and advancing research. Nowhere is this collaboration more evident than in sarcoma, a group of rare cancers posing unique challenges to diagnosis, management, and treatment, which profoundly affect patient outcomes. Here, we explore the vital role of patient-centric collaboration in improving global health outcomes in sarcoma, emphasizing the transformative power of collective action and shared expertise. Challenges in sarcoma care, including diagnostic complexities, disparities in access to care, and genomic tumor heterogeneity, underscore the urgent need for collaborative solutions. Initiatives like the Sarcoma European and Latin American Network (SELNET) and The Life Raft Group (LRG) exemplify successful models of collaborative research and patient advocacy, driving advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and disease understanding. Stakeholders across disciplines are uniting to improve sarcoma care and outcomes through the development of clinical practice guidelines, continuous medical education, patient registries, virtual tumor boards, and consortium-driven research endeavors, all of which foster the growth of global collaborative groups. The success of these collaborative efforts serves as a model for other rare diseases, highlighting the potential of collective action to drive progress and innovation in health care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Matías Chacón
- Instituto Alexander Fleming, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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7
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Jena SR, Watts A, Aggarwal P, Bachhal V, Kaur H, Dhingra K, Singh H, Bal A, Singh B. 68 Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT for in-vivo mapping of CXCR4 receptors as potential radiotheranostic targets in soft tissue and bone sarcoma: preliminary results. Nucl Med Commun 2024; 45:229-235. [PMID: 38165171 DOI: 10.1097/mnm.0000000000001803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the diagnostic utility of 68 Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT for in vivo imaging of CXCR4 receptors in soft tissue/bone sarcoma. METHODS Ten (7M: 3F; mean age = 24.7 ± 14.2 years) consecutive patients with clinical and radiological evidence of bone/soft tissue sarcoma were recruited prospectively whole body 68 Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT imaging was performed at 60-min after tracer administration. After performing standard CT, PET acquisition from head to toe was done (3 min/bed position) in a caudocranial direction. PET/CT data was reconstructed and SUV max , SUV mean values, target-to-background ratio (TBR) and active tumor volume (cc) were computed for the tracer avid lesions. Histopathological and IHC analysis was performed on the surgically excised primary tumors. CXCR4 receptors' intensity was evaluated by visual scoring. RESULTS The mean SUV max and SUV mean values in the primary tumors were 4.80 ± 1.0 (3.9-7.7) and 2.40 ± 0.60 (0.9-4.0). The mean TBR and tumor volume (cc) were 1.84 ± 1.3 and 312.2 ± 285. Diagnosis of osteosarcoma in 7, chondrosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma and synovial sarcoma in 1 patient each was confirmed on HP analysis. Distant metastatic lesions were seen in 3/10 patients. Nuclear CXCR4 receptors' positivity was seen in 5, cytoplasmic in 4 and both pattern seen in 1 patient. The mean CXCR4 receptors' intensity was found to be 7.6 ± 2. The highest SUV max value of 7.7 was observed in the patient having both cytoplasmic and nuclear CXCR4 expression. SUV max was found to be poorly correlated ( r = 0.441) with CXCR4 expression. CONCLUSION 68 Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT detects CXCR4 receptors over-expressed in sarcoma, its radio-theranostics potential needs detailed evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Amanjit Bal
- Histopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
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8
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Rummel KA, Gao RW, Francis LN, Petersen IA, Mutter RW, Corbin KS. Secondary breast angiosarcoma following accelerated partial breast irradiation with intracavitary multicatheter applicator brachytherapy. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:487-490. [PMID: 37217416 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2023.04.007] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Secondary angiosarcoma of the breast is a rare complication of breast radiotherapy and is associated with a poor prognosis. There are many reported cases of secondary angiosarcoma following whole breast irradiation (WBI), however development of secondary angiosarcoma following brachytherapy-based accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is not as well characterized. METHODS AND MATERIALS We reviewed and reported a case of a patient who developed secondary angiosarcoma of the breast following intracavitary multicatheter applicator brachytherapy APBI. RESULTS A 69-year-old female was originally diagnosed with T1N0M0 invasive ductal carcinoma of the left breast and treated with lumpectomy followed by adjuvant intracavitary multicatheter applicator brachytherapy APBI. Seven years following her treatment, she developed secondary angiosarcoma. However, the diagnosis of secondary angiosarcoma was delayed due to nonspecific imaging findings and a negative biopsy. CONCLUSIONS Our case highlights the need for secondary angiosarcoma to be considered in the differential diagnosis when patients present with symptoms such as breast ecchymosis and skin thickening following WBI or APBI. Prompt diagnosis and referral to a high-volume sarcoma treatment center for multidisciplinary evaluation is vital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keaton A Rummel
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bismarck, ND.
| | - Robert W Gao
- Mayo Clinic Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN
| | - Leah N Francis
- Mayo Clinic Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN
| | - Ivy A Petersen
- Mayo Clinic Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN
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9
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Strönisch A, Märdian S, Flörcken A. Centralized and Interdisciplinary Therapy Management in the Treatment of Sarcomas. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13040979. [PMID: 37109507 PMCID: PMC10144040 DOI: 10.3390/life13040979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcoma treatment requires a high level of expertise due to its rarity and heterogeneity. Sarcoma patients should, therefore, be referred to an expert centre as early as possible to ensure optimal treatment. Numerous studies have been carried out to provide evidence for this strategy. In compliance with the 2020 PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Ovid Medline, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Library databases. The subject of these studies was the centralised treatment of adult sarcoma patients at expert centres and the use of interdisciplinary tumour boards. Uncertainty in therapy, delays in referral to expert centres, and limited access to therapeutic modalities continue to be a challenge in sarcoma therapy. At expert centres, diagnostic procedures were more frequently and adequately performed, and treatment was associated with an improvement in outcomes in the majority of studies: patients benefited from longer survival, lower local recurrence rates and a better postoperative outcome. The implementation of an interdisciplinary tumour board was associated with discrepant results. In a greater number of studies, it was associated with a lower local relapse rate, better overall survival and surgical outcome. In two studies, however, a shorter overall survival was observed. The establishment of expert centres and the consistent use of interdisciplinary tumour boards are important structures for ensuring multidisciplinary therapy approaches. There is growing evidence that this holds great potential for optimising sarcoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Strönisch
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Märdian
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Flörcken
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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10
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Towards the Search for Potential Biomarkers in Osteosarcoma: State-of-the-Art and Translational Expectations. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314939. [PMID: 36499267 PMCID: PMC9740676 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma represents a rare cause of cancer in the general population, accounting for <1% of malignant neoplasms globally. Nonetheless, it represents the main cause of malignant bone neoplasm in children, adolescents and young adults under 20 years of age. It also presents another peak of incidence in people over 50 years of age and is associated with rheumatic diseases. Numerous environmental risk factors, such as bone diseases, genetics and a history of previous neoplasms, have been widely described in the literature, which allows monitoring a certain group of patients. Diagnosis requires numerous imaging tests that make it possible to stratify both the local involvement of the disease and its distant spread, which ominously determines the prognosis. Thanks to various clinical trials, the usefulness of different chemotherapy regimens, radiotherapy and surgical techniques with radical intent has now been demonstrated; these represent improvements in both prognosis and therapeutic approaches. Osteosarcoma patients should be evaluated in reference centres by multidisciplinary committees with extensive experience in proper management. Although numerous genetic and rheumatological diseases and risk factors have been described, the use of serological, genetic or other biomarkers has been limited in clinical practice compared to other neoplasms. This limits both the initial follow-up of these patients and screening in populations at risk. In addition, we cannot forget that the diagnosis is mainly based on the direct biopsy of the lesion and imaging tests, which illustrates the need to study new diagnostic alternatives. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to review the natural history of the disease and describe the main biomarkers, explaining their clinical uses, prognosis and limitations.
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11
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Popova E, Tkachev S, Reshetov I, Timashev P, Ulasov I. Imaging Hallmarks of Sarcoma Progression Via X-ray Computed Tomography: Beholding the Flower of Evil. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205112. [PMID: 36291896 PMCID: PMC9600487 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205112] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sarcomas represent the largest group of rare solid tumors that arise from mesenchymal stem cells and are a leading cause of cancer death in individuals younger than 20 years of age. There is an immediate need for the development of an algorithm for the early accurate diagnosis of sarcomas due to the high rate of diagnostic inaccuracy, which reaches up to 30%. X-ray computed tomography is a non-invasive imaging technique used to obtain detailed internal images of the human or animal body in clinical practice and preclinical studies. We summarized the main imaging features of soft tissue and bone sarcomas, and noted the development of new molecular markers to reach tumor type-specific imaging. Also, we demonstrated the possibility of the use X-ray computed microtomography for non-destructive 3D visualization of sarcoma progression in preclinical studies. Finding correlations between X-ray computed tomography modalities and the results of the histopathological specimen examination may significantly increase the accuracy of diagnostics, which leads to the initiation of appropriate management in a timely manner and, consequently, to improved outcomes. Abstract Sarcomas are a leading cause of cancer death in individuals younger than 20 years of age and represent the largest group of rare solid tumors. To date, more than 100 morphological subtypes of sarcomas have been described, among which epidemiology, clinical features, management, and prognosis differ significantly. Delays and errors in the diagnosis of sarcomas limit the number of effective therapeutic modalities and catastrophically worsen the prognosis. Therefore, the development of an algorithm for the early accurate diagnosis of sarcomas seems to be as important as the development of novel therapeutic advances. This literature review aims to summarize the results of recent investigations regarding the imaging of sarcoma progression based on the use of X-ray computed tomography (CT) in preclinical studies and in current clinical practice through the lens of cancer hallmarks. We attempted to summarize the main CT imaging features of soft-tissue and bone sarcomas. We noted the development of new molecular markers with high specificity to antibodies and chemokines, which are expressed in particular sarcoma subtypes to reach tumor type-specific imaging. We demonstrate the possibility of the use of X-ray computed microtomography (micro-CT) for non-destructive 3D visualization of solid tumors by increasing the visibility of soft tissues with X-ray scattering agents. Based on the results of recent studies, we hypothesize that micro-CT enables the visualization of neovascularization and stroma formation in sarcomas at high-resolution in vivo and ex vivo, including the novel techniques of whole-block and whole-tissue imaging. Finding correlations between CT, PET/CT, and micro-CT imaging features, the results of the histopathological specimen examination and clinical outcomes may significantly increase the accuracy of soft-tissue and bone tumor diagnostics, which leads to the initiation of appropriate histotype-specific management in a timely manner and, consequently, to improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Popova
- World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Tkachev
- World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Reshetov
- University Clinical Hospital No. 1, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter Timashev
- World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostic, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-901-797-5406
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Ballhause TM, Reiter A, Korthaus A, Frosch KH, Schlickewei CW, Priemel MH. Diagnostic delay in soft tissue tumors: a single-center study of a university cancer center with a focus on health services research. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:452. [PMID: 35387642 PMCID: PMC8988367 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07891-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lumps and soft tissue tumors (STT) are frequent reasons for consulting a physician. Most STT are benign, and lumps are not always associated with a tumor. MRI is the most advanced imaging modality to assist a provisional diagnosis of STT. Only a small fraction of STT is malignant, these soft tissue sarcomas are known for their aggressive growth. The study aims to analyze the influence of the MRI report on the speed of treatment of patients with suspected STT. Methods This was a retrospective, longitudinal, single-center study from 2011–2020. We included adult patients who had biopsies or resections of masses suspicious for STT in MRI exams. MRI reports were classified as benign (I), intermediate/unclear (II), or malignant (III). For these cohorts, time was statistically analyzed from MRI scan to first contact with the University cancer center (UCC) and surgery. Furthermore, distance in kilometers from the patients´ home to the UCC was examined and compared to age and suspected malignancy. Results Three hundred two patients (♀130; ♂172) were included. Histologic analyses revealed 286 tumors. The average age of the patients was 54.7(SD: 16.2) years. Malignant tumors were more often suspected in older patients (p = 0.0098). Patients with a benign diagnosed tumor in MRI contacted the UCC after an average of 31.3 (SD: 47.8) days. In contrast, patients with suspicion of a malignant tumor contacted the UCC significantly earlier, after 14.1 days (SD: 17.1); p = 0.0098. Likewise, the time between first contact and biopsy/resection was 32.8 days (SD: 35.7) for suspiciously benign tumors, and potentially malignant tumors were treated significantly faster 14.8 (SD: 16.0) days; (p = 0.028). Patients traveled on average 47.5 km (range: 0.5–483) to contact a specialized physician at the UCC. Suspected degree of malignancy or patient´s age had no statistical influence on traveled distance. Discussion The treatment speed depended to a great extent on the suspected malignancy of the STT in the MRI report. The provisional diagnoses from the radiologist highly influenced the time delay between MRI scan and first contact to the UCC and surgical treatment. No discrimination of age or distance to the UCC was observed in this study. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07891-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias M Ballhause
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Alonja Reiter
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Korthaus
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karl-Heinz Frosch
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Trauma Surgery, Orthopedics and Sports Traumatology, BG Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten W Schlickewei
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias H Priemel
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
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13
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Maleki Z, Saoud C, Viswanathan K, Kilic I, Tommola E, Griffin DT, Heider A, Petrone G, Jo VY, Centeno BA, Saieg M, Mikou P, Fadda G, Ali SZ, Kholová I, Wojcik EM, Barkan GA, Eisele DW, Bellevicine C, Vigliar E, Wiles AB, Al-Ibraheemi A, Allison DB, Dixon GR, Chandra A, Walsh JM, Baloch ZW, Faquin WC, Krane JF, Rossi ED, Pantanowitz L, Troncone G, Callegari FM, Klijanienko J. Application of the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology in pediatric patients: An international, multi-institutional study. Cancer Cytopathol 2022; 130:370-380. [PMID: 35081269 DOI: 10.1002/cncy.22556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric salivary gland fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is uncommon with a higher frequency of inflammatory lesions and a small proportion of malignancies. This international, multi-institutional cohort evaluated the application of the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) and the risk of malignancy (ROM) for each diagnostic category. METHODS Pediatric (0- to 21-year-old) salivary gland FNA specimens from 22 international institutions of 7 countries, including the United States, England, Italy, Greece, Finland, Brazil, and France, were retrospectively assigned to an MSRSGC diagnostic category as follows: nondiagnostic, nonneoplastic, atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), benign neoplasm, salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential (SUMP), suspicious for malignancy (SM), or malignant. Cytology-histology correlation was performed where available, and the ROM was calculated for each MSRSGC diagnostic category. RESULTS The cohort of 477 aspirates was reclassified according to the MSRSGC as follows: nondiagnostic, 10.3%; nonneoplastic, 34.6%; AUS, 5.2%; benign neoplasm, 27.5%; SUMP, 7.5%; SM, 2.5%; and malignant, 12.4%. Histopathologic follow-up was available for 237 cases (49.7%). The ROMs were as follows: nondiagnostic, 5.9%; nonneoplastic, 9.1%; AUS, 35.7%; benign neoplasm, 3.3%; SUMP, 31.8%; SM, 100%; and malignant, 100%. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the most common malignancy (18 of 237; 7.6%), and it was followed by acinic cell carcinoma (16 of 237; 6.8%). Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common benign neoplasm (95 of 237; 40.1%). CONCLUSIONS The MSRSGC can be reliably applied to pediatric salivary gland FNA. The ROM of each MSRSGC category in pediatric salivary gland FNA is relatively similar to the ROM of each category in adult salivary gland FNA, although the reported rates for the different MSRSGC categories are variable across institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Maleki
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carla Saoud
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kartik Viswanathan
- Department of Pathology, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Irem Kilic
- Department of Pathology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Erkka Tommola
- Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Daniel T Griffin
- Department of Pathology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Amer Heider
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Gianluigi Petrone
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart University, Rome, Italy
| | - Vickie Y Jo
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Mauro Saieg
- Department of Pathology, A. C. Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Guido Fadda
- Department of Pathology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Syed Z Ali
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ivana Kholová
- Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Eva M Wojcik
- Department of Pathology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Güliz A Barkan
- Department of Pathology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois
| | - David W Eisele
- Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Claudio Bellevicine
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Vigliar
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Austin B Wiles
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Alyaa Al-Ibraheemi
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Derek B Allison
- Department of Pathology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Glen R Dixon
- HCA Laboratories, HCA Healthcare, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ashish Chandra
- Department of Pathology, Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan M Walsh
- Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zubair W Baloch
- Department of Pathology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - William C Faquin
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeffrey F Krane
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Esther Diana Rossi
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart University, Rome, Italy
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Giancarlo Troncone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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"We're on a Merry-Go-Round": Reflections of Patients and Carers after Completing Treatment for Sarcoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:3003-3014. [PMID: 34436029 PMCID: PMC8395482 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28040263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Sarcoma is a rare cancer that has a significant impact on patients’ and carers’ quality of life. Despite this, there has been a paucity of research exploring the diverse experiences of patients and carers following sarcoma treatment. The aim of this study was to explore patients’ and carers’ reflections on life after treatment for sarcoma. A qualitative research design with a social constructionist epistemology was used. Participants included patients previously treated for sarcoma (n = 21) and family carers of patients treated for sarcoma (n = 16). Participants completed semi-structured interviews which were analysed using thematic analysis. Three primary themes were identified: “This journey is never going to be over”, “But what happens when I am better?”, and finding a silver lining. Participants represented sarcoma as having a long-term, and sometimes indefinite, threat on their life that they had limited control over. Conclusions: This study highlight the heterogeneous and ongoing needs of sarcoma survivors and their families. Patients and carers strove to translate their experiences in a meaningful way, such as by improving outcomes for other people affected by sarcoma. Parental carers in particular attempted to protect the patient from the ongoing stress of managing the disease.
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15
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Weaver R, O'Connor M, Ngune I, Smith RC, Phillips J, Halkett G. Perspectives of the sarcoma clinical nurse consultant role: A qualitative study. Collegian 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colegn.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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16
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"It's Always Been a Second Class Cancer": An Exploration of the Experiences and Journeys of Bereaved Family Carers of People with Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112670. [PMID: 34071478 PMCID: PMC8198001 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a group of rare and aggressive cancers, which develop in bones and connective tissue throughout the body. Sarcomas account for only 1-2% of all cancers worldwide; however, mortality rates for sarcoma are high with approximately two in four sarcoma patients dying following a diagnosis. Delays in diagnosis, poor management of symptoms, patients' high symptom loads and high carer burden are all associated with carer distress, which may lead to complications after bereavement. The experience of having a family member referred for palliative care is also distressing for carers, with the realisation that their family member is dying. This study aimed to explore the experiences of bereaved family carers of people diagnosed with sarcoma. A qualitative descriptive design using a social constructionist framework was adopted. Interviews were conducted with sixteen participants, and thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in the data. Four overarching themes emerged: beginning the journey; moving through treatment; transitioning to palliative care; and experiencing bereavement. The narratives were coherent and potent, and people reflected on their journeys. Interventions and supports for bereaved carers could include opportunities for counselling to support reflections, supports for developing a narrative such as writing therapy, and preparation for the death of the family member.
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17
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Weaver R, O'Connor M, Halkett GK, Carey Smith R. The unmet needs of carers of patients diagnosed with sarcoma: A qualitative study. Psychooncology 2021; 30:1095-1103. [PMID: 33544399 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sarcoma is a rare cancer that may result in reduced mobility, social isolation, poorer mental health, and ongoing medical issues for patients. Family carers play a crucial role in supporting patients throughout their sarcoma journey. Despite the aggressive and debilitating nature of the disease, the unmet needs of these carers are yet to be explored. The aim of this study was to explore the unmet needs of carers of patients diagnosed with sarcoma. METHODS An exploratory qualitative research design with a social constructionist epistemology was used. Participants were carers of patients diagnosed with a sarcoma (n = 33). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with carers of patients who completed treatment for sarcoma and also bereaved carers (BC). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. FINDINGS Four overarching themes were identified: support with medical aspects of caregiving, support for self, needing information about the patient, and financial support. Participants recognised that they needed psychosocial support, however, many were reluctant to access support as they perceived this to be prioritising their own needs instead of the patients'. They also needed more information about the patients' disease and how to navigate the health system. CONCLUSIONS Family carers for patients with sarcoma have onerous responsibilities that affect their ability to access care for themselves and their family. Providing more holistic patient care and carer-specific information and training could reduce carer burden. Establishing support groups specific to carers and BC of patients diagnosed with sarcoma could provide opportunities for social interaction and psychosocial support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhys Weaver
- Curtin School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- Curtin School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,WA Centre for Cancer Prevention Research Unit (WACPRU), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Georgia Kb Halkett
- Curtin School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,WA Centre for Cancer Prevention Research Unit (WACPRU), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Richard Carey Smith
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Perth Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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18
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Drabbe C, Grünhagen DJ, Van Houdt WJ, Braam PM, Soomers VLMN, Van der Hage JA, De Haan JJ, Keymeulen KBMI, Husson O, Van der Graaf WTA. Diagnosed with a Rare Cancer: Experiences of Adult Sarcoma Survivors with the Healthcare System-Results from the SURVSARC Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040679. [PMID: 33567553 PMCID: PMC7914609 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Patients with rare cancers face obstacles including delays in diagnosis, inadequate treatments and limited scientific evidence to guide decision making. These obstacles may have a unique impact on their experience with the healthcare system and might be different at various ages. Some aspects of care that shape the experience with the healthcare system include information needs, satisfaction with care and supportive care. Very little is known about these aspects of care, specifically for rare cancer patients. Sarcomas are prime examples of rare cancers and are diagnosed at all ages. In this study, we explored the experience of sarcoma patients (N = 1099) with the healthcare system and looked into detail at whether differences in experience existed between age groups. The results of this nationwide study showed that healthcare experiences differ per age group and we identified needs related to the rarity of these tumors, such as improvements concerning (non-)medical guidance and diagnostic intervals. Abstract The aim of this study was to explore the experience of rare cancer patients with the healthcare system and examine differences between age groups (adolescents and young adults (AYA, 18–39 years), older adults (OA, 40–69 years) and elderly (≥70 years)). Dutch sarcoma patients, 2–10 years after diagnosis, completed a questionnaire on their experience with the healthcare system, satisfaction with care, information needs, patient and diagnostic intervals (first symptom to first doctor’s visit and first doctor’s visit to diagnosis, respectively) and received supportive care. In total, 1099 patients completed the questionnaire (response rate 58%): 186 AYAs, 748 OAs and 165 elderly. Many survivors experienced insufficient medical and non-medical guidance (32% and 38%), although satisfaction with care was rated good to excellent by 94%. Both patient and diagnostic intervals were >1 month for over half of the participants and information needs were largely met (97%). AYAs had the longest patient and diagnostic intervals, experienced the greatest lack of (non-)medical guidance, had more desire for patient support groups and used supportive care most often. This nationwide study among sarcoma survivors showed that healthcare experiences differ per age group and identified needs related to the rarity of these tumors, such as improvements concerning (non-)medical guidance and diagnostic intervals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cas Drabbe
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.D.); (W.T.A.V.d.G.)
- Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk J. Grünhagen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Winan J. Van Houdt
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Pètra M. Braam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Vicky L. M. N. Soomers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Jos A. Van der Hage
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Jacco J. De Haan
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Kristien B. M. I. Keymeulen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.D.); (W.T.A.V.d.G.)
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, Sutton, London SM2 5NG, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Winette T. A. Van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.D.); (W.T.A.V.d.G.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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