Stomach cancer risk after treatment for hodgkin lymphoma

Response-adapted ultra-low-dose 4 Gy radiation as definitive therapy of gastric MALT lymphoma: a single-centre, pilot trial

BACKGROUND

Given the favourable prognosis of patients with gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, treatment-related toxicity should be minimised. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of 4 Gy radiotherapy given in a response-adapted approach.

METHODS

We conducted a single-centre, single-arm, prospective trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA) of response-adapted ultra-low-dose radiotherapy. Eligible patients were 18 years or older and had newly diagnosed or relapsed Helicobacter pylori-negative gastric MALT lymphoma, with stage I-IV disease. Given the expected low toxicity profile of treatment, performance status was not an exclusion criterion. Patients received external beam photon-based radiotherapy for a total dose of 4 Gy in two fractions. Patients with a complete response to 4 Gy via endoscopy and imaging at 3-4 months were observed; patients with a partial response were re-evaluated in 6-9 months. Residual disease at 9-13 months or stable or progressive disease at any time required additional treatment with 20 Gy. The primary endpoint was gastric complete response at 1 year (second evaluation timepoint) after 4 Gy treatment. All analyses were performed as intention to treat. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03680586) and is complete and closed to enrolment.

FINDINGS

Between March 27, 2019, and Oct 12, 2021, we enrolled 24 eligible patients. The median age of participants was 67 years (IQR 58-74; range 40-85); 15 (63%) were female and nine (37%) male; 18 (75%) were White, four (17%) Asian, and two (8%) Hispanic; 20 (83%) had stage I disease, one (4%) stage II, and three (13%) stage IV. Median follow-up time was 36 months (IQR 26-42). 20 patients (83%) had a complete response to 4 Gy (16 at 3-4 months, four at 9-13 months); two patients received 20 Gy for symptomatic stable disease at 3-4 months and two for residual disease at 9-13 months; all had a complete response. The 3-year local control rate was 96% (95% CI 88-100), with one local relapse at 14 months after 4 Gy radiotherapy salvaged successfully with 20 Gy. One patient with stage IV disease had a distant relapse. The most common adverse events were grade 1 nausea (nine [38%] of 24 patients who received 4 Gy and two [50%] of four patients who received 20 Gy) and grade 1 abdominal pain (five [21%] of 24 and zero of four, respectively). No grade 3 or worse adverse events were noted, including no treatment-related deaths.

INTERPRETATION

Most patients had a complete response after 4 Gy radiotherapy; all who required an additional 20 Gy had a complete response within 12 months. This response-adapted strategy could be used to select patients who would benefit from additional radiotherapy and spare others potential associated toxicity.

FUNDING

National Cancer Institute.

Therapy-Associated Polyposis, Late Presentation of a Childhood-Treated Disease

Therapy-associated polyposis (TAP), an acquired gastrointestinal polyposis in childhood cancer survivors, poses diagnostic challenges resembling hereditary syndromes. Four TAP patients were studied, revealing upper gastrointestinal lesions after radiotherapy in 2 patients, managed by endoscopic resection. Two underwent total colectomy; 1 had adenocarcinoma from a polyp. Next-generation sequencing on diseased tissue revealed no alteration in mismatch repair genes with stable microsatellite status; however, there was somatic mutation in APC gene altering Wnt signaling pathway in all 3 precancerous lesions. Integrating endoscopic and surgical interventions is crucial, although ongoing studies aim to elucidate pathophysiology for potential targeted therapies in TAP management.

Finite-Sample Bias of the Linear Excess Relative Risk in Cohort Studies of Computed Tomography-Related Radiation Exposure and Cancer

The linear excess relative risk (ERR) is the most commonly reported measure of association in radiation epidemiological studies, when individual dose estimates are available. While the asymptotic properties of the ERR estimator are well understood, there is evidence of small sample bias in case-control studies of treatment-related radiation exposure and second cancer risk. Cohort studies of cancer risk after exposure to low doses of radiation from diagnostic procedures, e.g., computed tomography (CT) examinations, typically have small numbers of cases and risks are small. Therefore, understanding the properties of the estimated ERR is essential for interpretation and analysis of such studies. We present results of a simulation study that evaluates the finite-sample bias of the ERR estimated by time-to-event analyses and its confidence interval using simulated data, resembling a retrospective cohort study of radiation-related leukemia risk after CT examinations in childhood and adolescence. Furthermore, we evaluate how the Firth-corrected estimator reduces the finite-sample bias of the classical estimator. We show that the ERR is overestimated by about 30% for a cohort of about 150,000 individuals, with 42 leukemia cases observed on average. The bias is reduced for higher baseline incidence rates and for higher values of the true ERR. As the number of cases increases, the ERR is approximately unbiased. The Firth correction reduces the bias for all cohort sizes to generally around or under 5%. Epidemiological studies showing an association between radiation exposure from pediatric CT and cancer risk, unless very large, may overestimate the magnitude of the relationship, while there is no evidence of an increased chance for false-positive results. Conducting large studies, perhaps by pooling individual studies to increase the number of cases, should be a priority. If this is not possible, Firth correction should be applied to reduce small-sample bias.

Management of limited-stage Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a rare type of B-cell malignancy with bimodal age distribution targeting young adults and elderly. Prognostic models are available to identify risk of recurrence and response to treatment. Currently, positron emission tomography scanning is most useful in optimizing therapy. Outcomes are generally excellent with standard chemotherapy or combined modality therapy. Balancing efficacy and the risk of late effects in Hodgkin lymphoma is essential, including early detection of potential complications. Incorporation of novel therapies such as brentuximab vedotin and checkpoint inhibitors are being explored in the frontline setting, having already demonstrated improved survival and tolerable toxicity in advanced HL. Furthermore, the addition of these agents have the potential to transform treatment paradigms for early-stage HL and may result in improved outcomes with decreased risks of late toxicities that continue to afflict long-term survivors. However, the patient population, sequencing, and combinations with cytotoxic chemotherapy all remain still standing questions as results of current and upcoming randomized trials are awaited. In this article, we discuss the current data on the approach to initial treatment of early-stage classical HL, review toxicity profiles, and examine upcoming novel therapy trials.

Individualised Estimation of Quality-adjusted Survival Benefit and Cost-effectiveness of Proton Beam Therapy in Intermediate-stage Hodgkin Lymphoma

AIMS

Radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma leads to the irradiation of organs at risk (OAR), which may confer excess risks of late effects. Comparative dosimetry studies show that proton beam therapy (PBT) may reduce OAR irradiation compared with photon radiotherapy, but PBT is more expensive and treatment capacity is limited. The purpose of this study is to inform the appropriateness of PBT for intermediate-stage Hodgkin lymphoma (ISHL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A microsimulation model simulating the course of ISHL, background mortality and late effects was used to estimate comparative quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) lived and healthcare costs after consolidative pencil beam scanning PBT or volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), both in deep-inspiration breath-hold. Outcomes were compared for 606 illustrative patients covering a spectrum of clinical presentations, varying by two age strata (20 and 40 years), both sexes, three smoking statuses (never, former and current) and 61 pairs of OAR radiation doses from a comparative planning study. Both undiscounted and discounted outcomes at 3.5% yearly discount were estimated. The maximum excess cost of PBT that might be considered cost-effective by the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence was calculated.

RESULTS

OAR doses, smoking status and discount rate had large impacts on QALYs gained with PBT. Current smokers benefited the most, averaging 0.605 undiscounted QALYs (range -0.341 to 2.171) and 0.146 discounted QALYs (range -0.067 to 0.686), whereas never smokers benefited the least, averaging 0.074 undiscounted QALYs (range -0.196 to 0.491) and 0.017 discounted QALYs (range -0.030 to 0.086). For the gain in discounted QALYs to be considered cost-effective, PBT would have to cost at most £4812 more than VMAT for current smokers and £645 more for never smokers. This is below preliminary National Health Service cost estimates of PBT over photon radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

In a UK setting, PBT for ISHL may not be considered cost-effective. However, the degree of unquantifiable uncertainty is substantial.

Association of Radiation and Procarbazine Dose With Risk of Colorectal Cancer Among Survivors of Hodgkin Lymphoma

Importance

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors have higher rates of colorectal cancer, which may be associated with subdiaphragmatic radiation therapy and/or alkylating chemotherapy. Although radiation dose-response associations with breast, lung, stomach, pancreatic, and esophageal cancer after HL have been demonstrated, the association of radiation therapy with colorectal cancer remains unclear.

Objective

To quantify the rate of colorectal cancer according to radiation dose to the large bowel and procarbazine dose among HL survivors.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A nested case-control study examined 5-year HL survivors at 5 hospital centers in the Netherlands. Participants had been diagnosed with HL in 1964 to 2000, when they were 15 to 50 years of age, and were followed for a median of approximately 26 years. Survivors of HL who developed colorectal cancer and survivors who were selected as controls were individually matched on sex, age at HL diagnosis, and date of HL diagnosis. Data were analyzed from July 2021 to October 2022.

Exposures

Mean radiation doses to the large bowel were estimated by reconstructing individual radiation therapy treatments on representative computed tomography data sets.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Excess rate ratios (ERRs) were modeled to evaluate the excess risk associated with each 1-gray increase in radiation dose, and potential effect modification by procarbazine was explored.

Results

The study population included 316 participants (mean [SD] age at HL diagnosis, 33.0 [9.8] years; 221 [69.9%] men), 78 of whom were HL survivors who developed colorectal cancer (cases) and 238 who did not (controls). The median (IQR) interval between HL and colorectal cancer was 25.7 (18.2-31.6) years. Increased colorectal cancer rates were seen for patients who received subdiaphragmatic radiation therapy (rate ratio [RR], 2.4; 95% CI, 1.4-4.1) and those who received more than 8.4 g/m2 procarbazine (RR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.3-5.0). Overall, colorectal cancer rate increased linearly with mean radiation dose to the whole large bowel and dose to the affected bowel segment. The association between radiation dose and colorectal cancer rate became stronger with increasing procarbazine dose: the ERR per gray to the whole bowel was 3.5% (95% CI, 0.4%-12.6%) for patients who did not receive procarbazine, and increased 1.2-fold (95% CI, 1.1-1.3) for each 1-g/m2 increase in procarbazine dose.

Conclusions and Relevance

This nested case-control study of 5-year HL survivors found a dose-response association between radiation therapy and colorectal cancer risk, and modification of this association by procarbazine. These findings may enable individualized colorectal cancer risk estimations, identification of high-risk survivors for subsequent screening, and optimization of treatment strategies.

Cost-Effectiveness of PET Directed Versus Combined Modality Therapy for Early-Stage Favorable Hodgkin's Lymphoma

INTRODUCTION

The standard of care for early-stage Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) is combined modality therapy (CMT) consisting of chemotherapy and involved site radiation therapy (ISRT). Recent treatment de-escalation trials have assessed the impact of omitting radiation with the use of positron emission tomography (PET) and have suggested a detriment in progression free survival (PFS) for patients who do not receive radiation therapy (RT) but similar overall survival. The purpose of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness of PET-directed therapy versus standard of care CMT.

METHODS

This study used a cost-effectiveness Markov model simulating 5 year outcomes for 1 million patients with early-stage HL treated with either PET-directed therapy consisting of 2 cycles of ABVD chemotherapy ± ISRT or CMT consisting of 2 cycles of ABVD + ISRT. Patients progressed to no evidence of disease, progression of disease (PD), or death. Patients with PD underwent salvage therapy with high dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplant (HDC-SCT). The primary outcome measured was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Deterministic sensitivity analyses were performed.

RESULTS

We found that PET-directed therapy and CMT strategies were associated with costs of $47,362 and $41,167, respectively. The CMT strategy was equally as effective as the PET-directed therapy strategy with QALYs of 3.4. On 1-way sensitivity analyses, the model was most sensitive to CMT and HDC-SCT costs. Two-way sensitivity analyses showed the model was sensitive to the relative costs of these treatments.

CONCLUSION

For patients with early-stage HL, CMT is the cost-effective strategy as compared with PET-directed therapy.

Role of Radiation Therapy in Mortality among Adolescents and Young Adults with Lymphoma: Differences According to Cause of Death

Simple Summary

Despite its efficacy, emerging concerns exist regarding radiation therapy (RT)-associated toxicity in adolescent and young adult (AYA) lymphoma patients. However, the most current research studying the association between RT and outcome is based only on groups of lymphoma patients and is not compared with the general population, which could more accurately reveal the impact of RT on outcomes. This population-based analysis showed that after adjusting for potential confounders, RT administration is associated with a low risk of cause-specific mortality, including death due to the original diagnosis, second malignant neoplasms (SMNs), and noncancer causes, among AYA patients with lymphoma. This analysis may play a guiding role in the design of future lymphoma studies and the formulation of healthcare policies regarding the widespread use of RT, especially for AYA survivors.

Abstract

Background: Despite its efficacy, emerging concerns exist regarding radiation therapy (RT)-associated toxicity in adolescent and young adult (AYA) lymphoma patients. Few long-term follow-up studies have examined the association between RT and outcomes. Methods: Lymphoma patients aged 15–39 years were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database from 1992 to 2016. Mortality was assessed by comparing those with and without RT using the Fine–Gray competing risk model. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were used to assess the relative risk of death compared with the general U.S. population. Results: In total, 29,686 patients were included; 10,708 (36.07%) received RT. Cause-specific mortality was compared between patients with and without RT while considering other competing events, including death due to index cancer, second malignant neoplasms (SMNs), and noncancer causes. Patients with RT had a lower probability of death and crude 5-year cumulative incidence of death. Moreover, there were significantly lower SMRs in patients with RT than in patients without RT. Differences between the two groups were greatest for mortality due to hematological malignancies and infections. Additionally, in the RT cohort, the SMR for index-cancer-related death was highest in the first year after diagnosis and gradually decreased. Hematological malignancies and infections were the most common specific SMN and noncancer causes of death, respectively. Conclusions: RT did not increase mortality from index cancer, SMNs, or noncancer causes in AYA patients with lymphoid malignancies. The current analysis may serve as a reference for healthcare providers monitoring RT application for AYA lymphoid malignancy survivors.

Molecular characterization of gastric adenocarcinoma diagnosed in patients previously treated for Hodgkin lymphoma or testicular cancer

Introduction

The risk of developing gastric cancer is increased in patients treated with radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) or testicular cancer (TC). This study aims to assess if gastric adenocarcinoma after treatment for HL/TC (t-GC) is molecularly different from gastric adenocarcinoma in the general population.

Methods

Patients were diagnosed with t-GC ≥5 years after treatment for HL/TC. Four molecular subtypes were identified using immunohistochemical and molecular analyses: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency or microsatellite instability (MSI), aberrant p53 staining as surrogate for chromosomal instability (sCIN), and a surrogate for genomic stability (sGS) without these aberrations. Results were compared with gastric cancer in the general population (p-GC) described in literature.

Results

Molecular subtyping of 90 t-GCs resulted in 3% EBV, 8% MSI, 36% sCIN and 53% sGS. 3/6 of MSI t-GCs had MLH1 promoter methylation and 2/6 were explained by double somatic mutations in MMR genes. T-GCs were more frequently sGS than p-GCs (53% vs. 38%, p = 0.04). T-GC was more frequently sGS in HL/TC patients diagnosed before 1990, than after 1990 (63% vs. 38%, p = 0.03). T-GCs located in the antrum, an area that receives high irradiation doses, were more frequently sGS (61% vs. 28% in p-GCs, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that t-GCs are more frequently of the sGS subtype than p-GCs. An association of t-GC of the sGS subtype with prior anticancer treatment is suggested by the high frequency in HL/TC patients who were treated before 1990, a time period in which HL/TC treatments were more extensive.

A Proposed Link Between Acute Thymic Involution and Late Adverse Effects of Chemotherapy

Epidemiologic data suggest that cancer survivors tend to develop a protuberant number of adverse late effects, including second primary malignancies (SPM), as a result of cytotoxic chemotherapy. Besides the genotoxic potential of these drugs that directly inflict mutational burden on genomic DNA, the precise mechanisms contributing to SPM development are poorly understood. Cancer is nowadays perceived as a complex process that goes beyond the concept of genetic disease and includes tumor cell interactions with complex stromal and immune cell microenvironments. The cancer immunoediting theory offers an explanation for the development of nascent neoplastic cells. Briefly, the theory suggests that newly emerging tumor cells are mostly eliminated by an effective tissue immunosurveillance, but certain tumor variants may occasionally escape innate and adaptive mechanisms of immunological destruction, entering an equilibrium phase, where immunologic tumor cell death "equals" new tumor cell birth. Subsequent microenvironmental pressures and accumulation of helpful mutations in certain variants may lead to escape from the equilibrium phase, and eventually cause an overt neoplasm. Cancer immunoediting functions as a dedicated sentinel under the auspice of a highly competent immune system. This perspective offers the fresh insight that chemotherapy-induced thymic involution, which is characterized by the extensive obliteration of the sensitive thymic epithelial cell (TEC) compartment, can cause long-term defects in thymopoiesis and in establishment of diverse T cell receptor repertoires and peripheral T cell pools of cancer survivors. Such delayed recovery of T cell adaptive immunity may result in prolonged hijacking of the cancer immunoediting mechanisms, and lead to development of persistent and mortal infections, inflammatory disorders, organ-specific autoimmunity lesions, and SPMs. Acknowledging that chemotherapy-induced thymic involution is a potential risk factor for the emergence of SPM demarcates new avenues for the rationalized development of pharmacologic interventions to promote thymic regeneration in patients receiving cytoreductive chemotherapies.

Second Malignancies in Patients with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Half a Century of Experience

Purpose

Therapeutic improvements for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL) has resulted in excellent survival outcomes. Thus, patients are increasing susceptible to developing secondary malignancy (SM) a feared iatrogenic complication.

Materials & Methods

We evaluated the SM risk in a cohort of patients with HL treated over a 50-year period. In total, 1653 patients were treated for HL from 1956 to 2009 at a tertiary-cancer-center. A cumulative incidence function was used to quantify SM risk and the Fine and Gray competing risk model was used to identify disease and treatment related correlates.

Results

Two-hundred-ninety patients (19%) developed SMs. Paradoxically, SM risk was higher in the modern era with 20-year cumulative incidence rates of 11.1%, 11.9%, 17% and 21.8%, for patients treated <1970, 1971–1986, 1986–1995 and 1996–2009, respectively. We hypothesized that the disproportionately high rate of early deaths in the early era may skew the assessment of SM risks, a much-delayed event. When the analysis was restricted to patients with early-stage favorable HL treated >1980, we found a reversal of the trend, especially on the risk of solid tumor, with a hazard ratio of 0.57 (p = 0.0651) in patients treated after 1996.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the limitations of comparing the risk of a late event between groups with disparate rates of early deaths, despite the use of a competing risk model. When partially corrected for, patients treated in the more recent time period experienced a lower solid tumor risk.

Body region-specific 3D age-scaling functions for scaling whole-body computed tomography anatomy for pediatric late effects studies

Purpose.Radiation epidemiology studies of childhood cancer survivors treated in the pre-computed tomography (CT) era reconstruct the patients' treatment fields on computational phantoms. For such studies, the phantoms are commonly scaled to age at the time of radiotherapy treatment because age is the generally available anthropometric parameter. Several reference size phantoms are used in such studies, but reference size phantoms are only available at discrete ages (e.g.: newborn, 1, 5, 10, 15, and Adult). When such phantoms are used for RT dose reconstructions, the nearest discrete-aged phantom is selected to represent a survivor of a specific age. In this work, we (1) conducted a feasibility study to scale reference size phantoms at discrete ages to various other ages, and (2) evaluated the dosimetric impact of using exact age-scaled phantoms as opposed to nearest age-matched phantoms at discrete ages.Methods.We have adopted the University of Florida/National Cancer Institute (UF/NCI) computational phantom library for our studies. For the feasibility study, eight male and female reference size UF/NCI phantoms (5, 10, 15, and 35 years) were downscaled to fourteen different ages which included next nearest available lower discrete ages (1, 5, 10 and 15 years) and the median ages at the time of RT for Wilms' tumor (3.9 years), craniospinal (8.0 years), and all survivors (9.1 years old) in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) expansion cohort treated with RT. The downscaling was performed using our in-house age scaling functions (ASFs). To geometrically validate the scaling, Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), mean distance to agreement (MDA), and Euclidean distance (ED) were calculated between the scaled and ground-truth discrete-aged phantom (unscaled UF/NCI) for whole-body, brain, heart, liver, pancreas, and kidneys. Additionally, heights of the scaled phantoms were compared with ground-truth phantoms' height, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 50th percentile height. Scaled organ masses were compared with ground-truth organ masses. For the dosimetric assessment, one reference size phantom and seventeen body-size dependent 5-year-old phantoms (9 male and 8 female) of varying body mass indices (BMI) were downscaled to 3.9-year-old dimensions for two different radiation dose studies. For the first study, we simulated a 6 MV photon right-sided flank field RT plan on a reference size 5-year-old and 3.9-year-old (both of healthy BMI), keeping the field size the same in both cases. Percent of volume receiving dose ≥15 Gy (V₁₅) and the mean dose were calculated for the pancreas, liver, and stomach. For the second study, the same treatment plan, but with patient anatomy-dependent field sizes, was simulated on seventeen body-size dependent 5- and 3.9-year-old phantoms with varying BMIs. V₁₅, mean dose, and minimum dose received by 1% of the volume (D₁), and by 95% of the volume (D₉₅) were calculated for pancreas, liver, stomach, left kidney (contralateral), right kidney, right and left colons, gallbladder, thoracic vertebrae, and lumbar vertebrae. A non-parametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test was performed to determine if the dose to organs of exact age-scaled and nearest age-matched phantoms were significantly different (p < 0.05).Results.In the feasibility study, the best DSCs were obtained for the brain (median: 0.86) and whole-body (median: 0.91) while kidneys (median: 0.58) and pancreas (median: 0.32) showed poorer agreement. In the case of MDA and ED, whole-body, brain, and kidneys showed tighter distribution and lower median values as compared to other organs. For height comparison, the overall agreement was within 2.8% (3.9 cm) and 3.0% (3.2 cm) of ground-truth UF/NCI and CDC reported 50th percentile heights, respectively. For mass comparison, the maximum percent and absolute differences between the scaled and ground-truth organ masses were within 31.3% (29.8 g) and 211.8 g (16.4%), respectively (across all ages). In the first dosimetric study, absolute difference up to 6% and 1.3 Gy was found for V₁₅and mean dose, respectively. In the second dosimetric study, V₁₅and mean dose were significantly different (p < 0.05) for all studied organs except the fully in-beam organs. D₁and D₉₅were not significantly different for most organs (p > 0.05).Conclusion.We have successfully evaluated our ASFs by scaling UF/NCI computational phantoms from one age to another age, which demonstrates the feasibility of scaling any CT-based anatomy. We have found that dose to organs of exact age-scaled and nearest aged-matched phantoms are significantly different (p < 0.05) which indicates that using the exact age-scaled phantoms for retrospective dosimetric studies is a better approach.

Childhood Cancer: Occurrence, Treatment and Risk of Second Primary Malignancies

Cancer represents the leading cause of disease-related death and treatment-associated morbidity in children with an increasing trend in recent decades worldwide. Nevertheless, the 5-year survival of childhood cancer patients has been raised impressively to more than 80% during the past decades, primarily attributed to improved diagnostic technologies and multiagent cytotoxic regimens. This strong benefit of more efficient tumor control and prolonged survival is compromised by an increased risk of adverse and fatal late sequelae. Long-term survivors of pediatric tumors are at the utmost risk for non-carcinogenic late effects such as cardiomyopathies, neurotoxicity, or pneumopathies, as well as the development of secondary primary malignancies as the most detrimental consequence of genotoxic chemo- and radiotherapy. Promising approaches to reducing the risk of adverse late effects in childhood cancer survivors include high precision irradiation techniques like proton radiotherapy or non-genotoxic targeted therapies and immune-based treatments. However, to date, these therapies are rarely used to treat pediatric cancer patients and survival rates, as well as incidences of late effects, have changed little over the past two decades in this population. Here we provide an overview of the epidemiology and etiology of childhood cancers, current developments for their treatment, and therapy-related adverse late health consequences with a special focus on second primary malignancies.

Subsequent Primary Cancers of the Digestive System Among Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors From 1975 to 2015 in the United States

INTRODUCTION

Among survivors from first primary cancers that occurred during childhood and adolescence, their risks of developing subsequent primary digestive system cancers are not well understood. Therefore, we conducted the largest and most comprehensive analysis examining risks for diverse types of digestive system cancers after survival from a wide variety of first primary childhood and adolescent cancers.

METHODS

We identified 41,249 patients diagnosed with first primary cancer from 1975 to 2015 before 20 years of age from 9 Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program registries. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs) for digestive system cancers were calculated controlling for age, sex, race, and calendar year.

RESULTS

Among 41,249 cancer survivors, 133 developed subsequent primary digestive system cancer, with a median digestive system cancer diagnosis age of 37 years. The SIR and AER for any digestive system cancer were highest among survivors of bone cancer, lymphoma, and neuroblastoma. Among survivors from any first primary cancer, the SIR was significantly elevated for cancer of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, and pancreas, whereas the AER was highest for large intestine cancer.

DISCUSSION

Childhood and adolescent cancer survivors diagnosed from 1975 to 2015 have significantly elevated risks of digestive system cancers compared with the US general population. Our detailed findings may contribute to surveillance recommendations of childhood and adolescent cancer survivors and promote future studies to further understand mechanisms by which having various first primary cancers lead to subsequent primary digestive system cancers.

Impact of Risk-Adapted Therapy for Pediatric Hodgkin Lymphoma on Risk of Long-Term Morbidity: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of serious chronic health conditions among survivors of pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), compare by era of therapy and by selected cancer therapies, and provide estimates of risks associated with contemporary therapy.

METHODS

Assessing 2,996 5-year HL survivors in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study diagnosed from 1970 to 1999, we examined the cumulative incidence of severe to fatal chronic conditions (grades 3-5) using self-report conditions, medically confirmed subsequent malignant neoplasms, and cause of death based on the National Death Index. We used multivariable regression models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) per decade and by key treatment exposures.

RESULTS

HL survivors were of a mean age of 35.6 years (range, 12-58 years). The cumulative incidence of any grade 3-5 condition by 35 years of age was 31.4% (95% CI, 29.2 to 33.5). Females were twice as likely (HR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.8 to 2.4) to have a grade 3-5 condition compared with males. From the 1970s to the 1990s, there was a 20% reduction (HR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.7 to 0.9) in decade-specific risk of a grade 3-5 condition (P trend = .002). In survivors who had a recurrence and/or hematopoietic cell transplant, the risk of a grade 3-5 condition was substantially elevated, similar to that of survivors treated with high-dose, extended-field radiotherapy (HR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.9 to 1.5). Compared with survivors treated with chest radiotherapy ≥ 35 Gy in combination with an anthracycline or alkylator, a contemporary regimen for low-intermediate risk HL was estimated to lead to a 40% reduction in risk of a grade 3-5 condition (HR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4 to 0.8).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that risk-adapted therapy for pediatric HL has resulted in a significant reduction in serious long-term outcomes.

Piperine Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis of Human Gastric Cancer Cells by Downregulating Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K)/Akt Pathway

Background

Piperine has been reported to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in various cancer cells. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and underlying mechanism of piperine in human gastric cancer.

Material/Methods

MTT assay was performed to examine the effect of piperine (concentrations of 0–300 μM) on the proliferation of human gastric cancer SNU-16 cells and normal human gastric epithelial GES-1 cells. Flow cytometry and Western blot were used to determine cell apoptosis and the expression level of protein (Cyto C, cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, Bad, Bcl-xl, PI3K, pPI3K, Akt, and pAkt), respectively. To further investigate the anti-tumor mechanism of piperine in SNU-16 cells, we used a small-molecule Akt activator SC79 in this study. The in vivo mechanism of piperine against gastric cancer was evaluated using a xenograft tumor model.

Results

The results showed that piperine inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of SNU-16 cells. Piperine upregulated the protein expression of Bax, Bad, Cyto C, cleaved PARP, and cleaved caspase-3, but downregulated the protein expression of Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, pPI3k, and pAkt. However, SC79 reversed the function of piperine on the apoptosis-related proteins. An in vivo study revealed that, compared with the control group, the tumor volume of mice treated with piperine was significantly reduced. Piperine enhanced cleaved caspase-3 expression but decreased Ki-67 expression in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the nontoxicity effect of piperine was confirmed by H&E staining analysis in kidney and heart tissues of mice.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that piperine inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of human gastric cancer cells through inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Long-Term Cause-Specific Mortality in Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients

Background

Few studies have examined the impact of treatment-related morbidity on long-term, cause-specific mortality in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients.

Methods

This multicenter cohort included 4919 HL patients, treated before age 51 years between 1965 and 2000, with a median follow-up of 20.2 years. Standardized mortality ratios, absolute excess mortality (AEM) per 10 000 person-years, and cause-specific cumulative mortality by stage and primary treatment, accounting for competing risks, were calculated.

Results

HL patients experienced a 5.1-fold (AEM = 123 excess deaths per 10 000 person-years) higher risk of death due to causes other than HL. This risk remained increased in 40-year survivors (standardized mortality ratio = 5.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.2 to 6.5, AEM = 619). At age 54 years, HL survivors experienced similar cumulative mortality (20.0%) from causes other than HL to 71-year-old individuals from the general population. Whereas HL mortality statistically significantly decreased over the calendar period (P < .001), solid tumor mortality did not change in the most recent treatment era. Patients treated in 1989-2000 had lower 25-year cardiovascular disease mortality than patients treated in 1965-1976 (4.3% vs 5.7%; subdistribution hazard ratio = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.46 to 0.93). Infectious disease mortality was not only increased after splenectomy but also after spleen irradiation (hazard ratio = 2.81, 95% CI = 1.55 to 5.07). For stage I-II, primary treatment with chemotherapy (CT) alone was associated with statistically significantly higher HL mortality (P < .001 for CT vs radiotherapy [RT]; P = .04 for CT vs RT+CT) but lower 30-year mortality from causes other than HL (15.8%, 95% CI = 9.7% to 23.3%) compared with RT alone (36.9%, 95% CI = 34.0% to 39.8%, P = .001) and RT and CT combined (29.8%, 95% CI = 26.8% to 32.9%, P = .02).

Conclusions

Compared with the general population, HL survivors have a substantially reduced life expectancy. Optimal selection of patients for primary CT is crucial, weighing risks of HL relapse and long-term toxicity.

Subsequent Primary Neoplasms: Risks, Risk Factors, Surveillance, and Future Research

The authors' objective is to provide a brief update on recent advances in knowledge relating to subsequent primary neoplasms developing in survivors of childhood cancer. This includes a summary of established large-scale cohorts, risks reported, and contrasts with results from recently established large-scale cohorts of survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer. Recent evidence is summarized concerning the role of radiotherapy and chemotherapy for childhood cancer and survivor genomics in determining the risk of subsequent primary neoplasms. Progress with surveillance, screening, and clinical follow-up guidelines is addressed. Finally, priorities for future research are outlined.

Risk of digestive cancers in a cohort of 69 460 five-year survivors of childhood cancer in Europe: the PanCareSurFup study

BACKGROUND

Survivors of childhood cancer are at risk of subsequent primary neoplasms (SPNs), but the risk of developing specific digestive SPNs beyond age 40 years remains uncertain. We investigated risks of specific digestive SPNs within the largest available cohort worldwide.

METHODS

The PanCareSurFup cohort includes 69 460 five-year survivors of childhood cancer from 12 countries in Europe. Risks of digestive SPNs were quantified using standardised incidence ratios (SIRs), absolute excess risks and cumulative incidence.

RESULTS

427 digestive SPNs (214 colorectal, 62 liver, 48 stomach, 44 pancreas, 59 other) were diagnosed in 413 survivors. Wilms tumour (WT) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors were at greatest risk (SIR 12.1; 95% CI 9.6 to 15.1; SIR 7.3; 95% CI 5.9 to 9.0, respectively). The cumulative incidence increased the most steeply with increasing age for WT survivors, reaching 7.4% by age 55% and 9.6% by age 60 years (1.0% expected based on general population rates). Regarding colorectal SPNs, WT and HL survivors were at greatest risk; both seven times that expected. By age 55 years, 2.3% of both WT (95% CI 1.4 to 3.9) and HL (95% CI 1.6 to 3.2) survivors had developed a colorectal SPN-comparable to the risk among members of the general population with at least two first-degree relatives affected.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonoscopy surveillance before age 55 is recommended in many European countries for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, but not for WT and HL survivors despite a comparable risk profile. Clinically, serious consideration should be given to the implementation of colonoscopy surveillance while further evaluation of its benefits, harms and cost-effectiveness in WT and HL survivors is undertaken.

[General and particular issues of etiopathogenesis of peptic ulcer and gastric cancer: current status of the problem]

The development of peptic ulcer (PU) and gastric cancer (GC) is the result of the interaction of various internal and external factors. Moreover, if the role ofHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori) in the development of diseases of the stomach is fully established, the significance of many other factors continues to be discussed. Serious controversy is caused by the participation of various strains ofH. pyloriin the development of PU and GC. First of all, these are Vac- and Cag-positive strains ofH. pylori. The role of genetic human polymorphism in the development of this pathology is debatable. Especially the interleukin genes and necrotizing tumor factor alpha. The role of environmental factors in the formation of PU and GC is not fully understood. So, the role of alcohol, occupational hazards and drugs in the development of these diseases continues to be discussed. Further study of risk factors for various diseases of the stomach will optimize their prevention and treatment. The review presents a modern view of individual issues in the pathogenesis of PU and GC.

Risk of stomach cancer incidence in a cohort of Mayak PA workers occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation

Stomach cancer is a widespread health condition associated with environmental and genetic factors. Contribution of ionizing radiation to stomach cancer etiology is not sufficiently studied. This study was aimed to assess an association of the stomach cancer incidence risk with doses from occupational radiation exposure in a cohort of workers hired at main Mayak production association facilities in 1948–1982 taking into account non-radiation factors including digestive disorders. The study cohort comprised 22,377 individuals and by 31.12.2013 343 stomach cancer diagnoses had been reported among the cohort members. Occupational stomach absorbed doses were provided by the Mayak Worker Dosimetry System– 2008 (MWDS–2008) for external gamma ray exposure and by the Mayak Worker Dosimetry System– 2013 (MWDS–2013) for internal exposure to plutonium. Excess relative risks (ERR) per Gy for stomach cancer were estimated using the Poisson’s regression. Analyses were run using the AMFIT module of the EPICURE software. The stomach cancer incidence risk in the study cohort was found to be significantly associated with the stomach absorbed dose of gamma rays: ERR/Gy = 0.19 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.44) with a 0 year lag, and ERR/Gy = 0.20 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.45) with a 5 year lag. To estimate the baseline risk, sex, attained age, smoking status and alcohol consumption, chronic diseases (peptic ulcer, gastritis and duodenitis) were taken into account. No modifications of the radiogenic risk by non-radiation factors were found in the study worker cohort. No association of the stomach cancer incidence risk with internal exposure to incorporated plutonium was observed.

Association between Long-Term Second Malignancy Risk and Radiation: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Entire Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database (1973-2014)

Purpose

Second malignancies (SMs) after radiation therapy are rare but serious sequelae of treatment. This study investigates whether radiation therapy use is associated with changes in baseline SM risk.

Methods and Materials

We extracted all patients with cancer, with or without SM, in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 1973 to 2014. Cumulative incidence of SM for patients stratified by radiation therapy status was calculated using a competing risk model, both for the entire cohort and for subgroups based on the primary tumor's anatomic location.

Results

We identified 2,872,063 patients with cancer, including 761,289 patients who received radiation therapy and 2,110,774 who did not. The SM rate at 20 years for patients receiving radiation therapy versus no radiation therapy was 21.4% versus 18.8%. The relative risk for SM associated with radiation therapy for the overall group was 1.138 at 20 years. The relative risks for SM associated with radiation therapy to malignancies arising from central nervous system and orbits, head and neck, thorax, abdomen, and pelvis at 20 years were 0.704, 1.011, 0.559, 0.646, and 1.106 for men and 0.792, 1.298, 1.265, 0.780, and 0.988 for women, respectively.

Conclusions

The association between SM and radiation therapy varies with both sex and disease anatomic location, with the largest increase in SM seen in females irradiated to the head and neck region. Overall, the absolute change in SM rates associated with radiation therapy remains small, with differences in various clinical contexts.

Schisantherin A induces cell apoptosis through ROS/JNK signaling pathway in human gastric cancer cells

Gastric cancer is one of the most lethal cancers with unmet clinical treatment and low 5-year survival rate. Schisantherin A is a major compound derived from Fructusschisandrae while its anti-tumor role remains nearly unknown. Here, we reported that schisantherin A had an anti-proliferation effect on gastric cancer cell lines MKN45 and SGC-7901. Schisantherin A induced cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell migration in gastric cancer MKN45 and SGC7901 cells. Meanwhile, upregulation of cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP were accompanied with the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Moreover, schisantherin A induced ROS-dependent JNK phosphorylation with higher ROS production. The JNK inhibitor and ROS scavenger NAC rescued the cell apoptosis and cycle inhibition elicited by schisantherin A. Furthermore, the expression level of antioxidant factor Nrf2 was suppressed by schisantherin A. These findings suggest that schisantherin A possesses an anti-tumor activity via activation of ROS/JNK with Nrf2 inhibition, indicating that schisantherin A is a promising chemotherapeutic candidate for gastric cancer.

Radiation-Related Risk of Cancers of the Upper Digestive Tract among Japanese Atomic Bomb Survivors

As a follow-up to the comprehensive work on solid cancer incidence in the Life Span Study (LSS) cohort of atomic bomb survivors between 1958 and 1998, we report here on updated radiation risk estimates for upper digestive tract cancers. In this study, we added 11 years of follow-up (1958-2009), used improved radiation dose estimates, considered effects of smoking and alcohol consumption and performed dose-response analyses by anatomical sub-site. In examining 52 years'worth of data, we ascertained the occurrence of 394 oral cavity/pharyngeal cancers, 486 esophageal cancers and 5,661 stomach cancers among 105,444 subjects. The radiation risk for oral cavity/pharyngeal cancer, other than salivary gland, was elevated but not significantly so. In contrast, salivary gland cancer exhibited a strong linear dose response with excess relative risk (ERR) of 2.54 per Gy [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69 to 6.1]. Radiation risk decreased considerably with increasing age at time of exposure (-66% per decade, 95% CI: -88% to -32%). The dose response for esophageal cancer was statistically significant under a simple linear, linear-quadratic and quadratic model. Both linear-quadratic and quadratic models described the data better than a simple linear model and, of the two, the quadratic model showed a marginally better fit based on the Akaike Information Criteria. Sex difference in linear ERRs was not statistically significant; however, when the dose-response shape was allowed to vary by sex, statistically significant curvature was found among males, with no evidence of quadratic departure from linearity among females. The risk for stomach cancer increased significantly with dose and there was little evidence for quadratic departure from linearity among either males or females. The sex-averaged ERR at age 70 was 0.33 per Gy (95% CI: 0.20 to 0.47). The ERR decreased significantly (-1.93 power of attained age, 95% CI: -2.94 to -0.82) with increasing attained age, but not with age at exposure, and was higher in females than males (P = 0.02). Our results are largely consistent with the results of prior LSS analyses. Salivary gland, esophageal and stomach cancers continue to show significant increases in risk with radiation dose. Adjustment for lifestyle factors had almost no impact on the radiation effect estimates. Further follow-up of the LSS cohort is important to clarify the nature of radiation effects for upper digestive tract cancers, especially for oral cavity/pharyngeal and esophageal cancers, for which detailed investigation for dose-response shape could not be conducted due to the small number of cases.

Adaptations to a Generalized Radiation Dose Reconstruction Methodology for Use in Epidemiologic Studies: An Update from the MD Anderson Late Effect Group

Epidemiologic studies that include patients who underwent radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer aim to quantify the relationship between radiotherapy and the risk of subsequent late effects. Because of the long follow-up period required to observe late effects, these studies are conducted retrospectively. The studies routinely include patients treated across numerous institutions using a wide range of technologies and represent treatments over several decades. As a result, determining the dose throughout the patient's body is uniquely challenging. Therefore, estimating doses throughout the patient's body for epidemiologic studies requires special methodologies that are generally applied to a wide range of radiotherapy techniques. Over ten years ago, the MD Anderson Late Effects Group described various dose reconstruction methods for therapeutic and diagnostic radiation exposure for epidemiologic studies. Here we provide an update to the most widely used dose reconstruction methodology for epidemiologic studies, analytical model calculations combined with a 3D age-specific computational phantom. In particular, we describe the various adaptations (and enhancements) of that methodology, as well as how they have been used in radiation epidemiology studies and may be used in future studies.

Colorectal Adenomas and Cancers After Childhood Cancer Treatment: A DCOG-LATER Record Linkage Study

Background

Although colorectal adenomas serve as prime target for colorectal cancer (CRC) surveillance in other high-risk groups, data on adenoma risk after childhood cancer are lacking. We evaluated the risk of histologically confirmed colorectal adenomas among childhood cancer survivors. A secondary aim was to assess CRC risk.

Methods

The DCOG-LATER cohort study includes five-year Dutch childhood cancer survivors and a sibling comparison group (n = 883). Colorectal tumors were identified from the population-based Dutch Pathology Registry (PALGA). We calculated cumulative incidences of adenomas/CRCs for survivors and siblings. For adenomas, multivariable Cox regression models were used to evaluate potential risk factors. All statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

Among 5843 five-year survivors (median follow-up = 24.9 years), 78 individuals developed an adenoma. Cumulative incidence by age 45 years was 3.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.2% to 5.6%) after abdominopelvic radiotherapy (AP-RT; 49 cases) vs 2.0% (95% CI = 1.3% to 2.8%) among survivors without AP-RT (28 cases; Pdifference = .07) and vs 1.0% (95% CI = 0.3% to 2.6%) among siblings (6 cases) (Pdifference = .03). Factors associated with adenoma risk were AP-RT (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.12, 95% CI = 1.24 to 3.60), total body irradiation (TBI; HR = 10.55, 95% CI = 5.20 to 21.42), cisplatin (HR = 2.13; 95% CI = 0.74 to 6.07 for <480 mg/m²; HR = 3.85, 95% CI = 1.45 to 10.26 for ≥480 mg/m²; Ptrend = .62), a hepatoblastoma diagnosis (HR = 27.12, 95% CI = 8.80 to 83.58), and family history of early-onset CRC (HR = 20.46, 95% CI = 8.10 to 51.70). Procarbazine was statistically significantly associated among survivors without AP-RT/TBI (HR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.28 to 5.74). Thirteen CRCs occurred.

Conclusion

We provide evidence for excess risk of colorectal adenomas and CRCs among childhood cancer survivors. Adenoma risk factors include AP-RT, TBI, cisplatin, and procarbazine. Hepatoblastoma (familial adenomatous polyposis-associated) and family history of early-onset CRC were confirmed as strong risk factors. A full benefit-vs-harm evaluation of CRC screening among high-risk childhood cancer survivors warrants consideration.

Response-Adapted Treatment Strategies in Hodgkin Lymphoma Using PET Imaging

Hodgkin lymphoma, a B-cell malignancy, is most common in patients younger than 55 years. Between 70% and 90% are cured with standard approaches. The high cure rate and long-term survival resulted in a need to minimize therapy toxicity. Response-adapted approaches have been developed to de-escalate therapy in those likely to be cured and intensifying therapy in those not responding to initial treatment. FDG-PET after chemotherapy is highly predictive of outcome. Thus, FDG-PET has been incorporated into response-adapted treatments. Use of FDG-PET to guide treatment in Hodgkin lymphoma has been recommended. We summarize literature and discuss challenges and future directions.

Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer After Mantle Radiation: A Case Report and Brief Review

Survivors of childhood and young adult cancer are at risk for developing subsequent malignant neoplasms, including lung cancer. As survival rates in this group continue to improve and patients enter later decades in life, determining the optimal surveillance and counseling strategies with regards to subsequent cancers remains a challenge. In this case report, we present a non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivor who was incidentally found to have non-small-cell lung cancer 30 years after undergoing treatment that included mantle radiation. We discuss the treatment-related risk factors for lung cancer in this population and potential implications for long-term follow-up.

Overall and disease-specific survival of Hodgkin lymphoma survivors who subsequently developed gastrointestinal cancer

Background

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors have an increased risk of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. This study aims to evaluate whether survival of patients who survived HL and developed GI cancer differs from survival of first primary GI cancer patients.

Methods

Overall and cause‐specific survival of GI cancer patients in a HL survivor cohort (GI‐HL, N = 104, including esophageal, gastric, small intestinal, and colorectal cancer) was compared with survival of a first primary GI cancer patient cohort (GI‐1, N = 1025, generated by case matching based on tumor site, gender, age, and year of diagnosis). Cox proportional hazards regression was used for survival analyses. Multivariable analyses were adjusted for GI cancer stage, grade of differentiation, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

Results

GI‐HL cancers were diagnosed at a median age of 54 years (interquartile range 45‐60). No differences in tumor stage or frequency of surgery were found. GI‐HL patients less often received radiotherapy (8% vs 23% in GI‐1 patients, P < 0.001) and chemotherapy (28% vs 41%, P = 0.01) for their GI tumor. Compared with GI‐1 patients, overall and disease‐specific survival of GI‐HL patients was worse (univariable hazard ratio (HR) 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03‐1.65, P = 0.03; and HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.00‐1.67, P = 0.049, respectively; multivariable HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.05‐1.68, P = 0.02; and HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.03‐1.72, P = 0.03, respectively).

Conclusions

Long‐term overall and disease‐specific survival of GI cancer in HL survivors is worse compared with first primary GI cancer patients. Differences in tumor stage, grade of differentiation, or treatment could not explain this worse survival.

Epidemiology of gastric cancer: global trends, risk factors and prevention

Gastric cancer remains one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide, especially among older males. Based on GLOBOCAN 2018 data, stomach cancer is the 5^th most common neoplasm and the 3^rd most deadly cancer, with an estimated 783,000 deaths in 2018. Gastric cancer incidence and mortality are highly variable by region and highly dependent on diet and Helicobacter pylori infection. While strides in preventing and treating H. pylori infection have decreased the overall incidence of gastric cancer, they have also contributed to an increase in the incidence of cardia gastric cancer, a rare subtype of the neoplasm that has grown 7-fold in the past decades. A better understanding of the etiology and risk factors of the disease can help reach a consensus in approaching H. pylori infection. Dietary modification, smoking cessation, and exercise hold promise in preventing gastric cancer, while genetic testing is enabling earlier diagnosis and thus greater survival.

Radiogenomic Predictors of Adverse Effects following Charged Particle Therapy

Radiogenomics is the study of genomic factors that are associated with response to radiation therapy. In recent years, progress has been made toward identifying genetic risk factors linked with late radiation-induced adverse effects. These advances have been underpinned by the establishment of an international Radiogenomics Consortium with collaborative studies that expand cohort sizes to increase statistical power and efforts to improve methodologic approaches for radiogenomic research. Published studies have predominantly reported the results of research involving patients treated with photons using external beam radiation therapy. These studies demonstrate our ability to pool international cohorts to identify common single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with risk for developing normal tissue toxicities. Progress has also been achieved toward the discovery of genetic variants associated with radiation therapy-related subsequent malignancies. With the increasing use of charged particle therapy (CPT), there is a need to establish cohorts for patients treated with these advanced technology forms of radiation therapy and to create biorepositories with linked clinical data. While some genetic variants are likely to impact toxicity and second malignancy risks for both photons and charged particles, it is plausible that others may be specific to the radiation modality due to differences in their biological effects, including the complexity of DNA damage produced. In recognition that the formation of patient cohorts treated with CPT for radiogenomic studies is a high priority, efforts are underway to establish collaborations involving institutions treating cancer patients with protons and/or carbon ions as well as consortia, including the Proton Collaborative Group, the Particle Therapy Cooperative Group, and the Pediatric Proton Consortium Registry. These important radiogenomic CPT initiatives need to be expanded internationally to build on experience gained from the Radiogenomics Consortium and epidemiologists investigating normal tissue toxicities and second cancer risk.

Review of risk factors of secondary cancers among cancer survivors

Improvements in cancer survival have made the long-term risks from treatments more important, in particular among the children, adolescents and young adults who are more at risk particularly due to a longer life expectancy and a higher sensitivity to treatments. Subsequent malignancies in cancer survivors now constitute 15 to 20% of all cancer diagnoses in the cancer registries. Lots of studies are published to determine risk factors, with some controversial findings. Just data from large cohorts with detailed information on individual treatments and verification of what is called "secondary cancers" can add some knowledge, because their main difficulty is that the number of events for most second cancer sites are low, which impact the statistical results. In this review of the literature, we distinguish second and secondary cancers and discuss the factors contributing to this increased risk of secondary cancers. The article concludes with a summary of current surveillance and screening recommendations.

Carcinoma in the Remnant Stomach During Long-Term Follow-up After Distal Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: Analysis of Cumulative Incidence and Associated Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

The number of patients with remnant gastric cancer following resection of gastric cancer may increase. The aims of this study were to investigate the development of remnant gastric cancer after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer and to examine its cumulative incidence, clinicopathological characteristics, and risk factors.

METHODS

We examined 437 patients with relapse-free survival for 5 years or more after distal gastrectomy with Billroth I reconstruction for gastric cancer performed between 1985 and 2005.

RESULTS

A total of 17 patients suffered from remnant gastric cancer. The cumulative incidence was 3.7% at 10 years and 5.4% at 20 years. The median time until development of remnant gastric cancer was 79 months (range 30-209 months). The presence of synchronous multiple gastric cancers was a significant independent risk factor for remnant gastric cancer (hazard ratio 4.036; 95% confidence interval 1.478-11.02; P = 0.006). Of the 17 patients, the 13 whose remnant gastric cancer was detected via regular endoscopy showed better prognoses than the patients detected by other means (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The cumulative incidence of remnant gastric cancer was 5.4% at 20 years. In particular, patients who had multiple gastric cancers at initial gastrectomy were at higher risk for remnant gastric cancer. Therefore, long-term endoscopic surveillance is important.

Risk, Risk Factors, and Surveillance of Subsequent Malignant Neoplasms in Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Review

Subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) in childhood cancer survivors cause substantial morbidity and mortality. This review summarizes recent literature on SMN epidemiology, risk factors, surveillance, and interventions. Survivors of childhood cancer experience long-term increased SMN risk compared with the general population, with a greater than twofold increased solid tumor risk extending beyond age 40 years. There is a dose-dependent increased risk for solid tumors after radiotherapy, with the highest risks for tumors occurring in or near the treatment field (eg, greater than fivefold increased risk for breast, brain, thyroid, skin, bone, and soft tissue malignancies). Alkylating and anthracycline chemotherapies increase the risk for development of several solid malignancies in addition to acute leukemia/myelodysplasia, and these risks may be modified by other patient characteristics, such as age at exposure and, potentially, inherited genetic susceptibility. Strategies for identifying survivors at risk and initiating long-term surveillance have improved and interventions are underway to improve knowledge about late-treatment effects among survivors and caregivers. Better understanding of treatment-related risk factors and genetic susceptibility holds promise for refining surveillance strategies and, ultimately, upfront cancer therapies.

Comparison of normal tissue dose calculation methods for epidemiological studies of radiotherapy patients

Radiation dosimetry is an essential input for epidemiological studies of radiotherapy patients aimed at quantifying the dose-response relationship of late-term morbidity and mortality. Individualised organ dose must be estimated for all tissues of interest located in-field, near-field, or out-of-field. Whereas conventional measurement approaches are limited to points in water or anthropomorphic phantoms, computational approaches using patient images or human phantoms offer greater flexibility and can provide more detailed three-dimensional dose information. In the current study, we systematically compared four different dose calculation algorithms so that dosimetrists and epidemiologists can better understand the advantages and limitations of the various approaches at their disposal. The four dose calculations algorithms considered were as follows: the (1) Analytical Anisotropic Algorithm (AAA) and (2) Acuros XB algorithm (Acuros XB), as implemented in the Eclipse treatment planning system (TPS); (3) a Monte Carlo radiation transport code, EGSnrc; and (4) an accelerated Monte Carlo code, the x-ray Voxel Monte Carlo (XVMC). The four algorithms were compared in terms of their accuracy and appropriateness in the context of dose reconstruction for epidemiological investigations. Accuracy in peripheral dose was evaluated first by benchmarking the calculated dose profiles against measurements in a homogeneous water phantom. Additional simulations in a heterogeneous cylinder phantom evaluated the performance of the algorithms in the presence of tissue heterogeneity. In general, we found that the algorithms contained within the commercial TPS (AAA and Acuros XB) were fast and accurate in-field or near-field, but not acceptable out-of-field. Therefore, the TPS is best suited for epidemiological studies involving large cohorts and where the organs of interest are located in-field or partially in-field. The EGSnrc and XVMC codes showed excellent agreement with measurements both in-field and out-of-field. The EGSnrc code was the most accurate dosimetry approach, but was too slow to be used for large-scale epidemiological cohorts. The XVMC code showed similar accuracy to EGSnrc, but was significantly faster, and thus epidemiological applications seem feasible, especially when the organs of interest reside far away from the field edge.

Trends in the Risks of Secondary Cancers in Patients With Hodgkin Lymphoma

INTRODUCTION

The present study analyzed the trends in secondary cancer (SC) risks among Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients in the United States.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with HL diagnosed from 1973 to 2014 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. We compared the risk of SCs in HL patients relative to the risk in the US general population across 3 periods: 1973 to 1986, 1987 to 2000, and 2001 to 2014 to study the effect of treatment practices on the development of SCs.

RESULTS

In a follow-up study of 23,864 HL survivors for 284,730 person-years, 3260 SCs were diagnosed with a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of 1.97 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9-2.04). A statistically significant decrease was found in the overall SIRs of SCs diagnosed in HL patients from 1987 to 2000 (SIR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.72-1.93) and from 2001 to 2014 (SIR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.51-1.82) relative to patients with SCs diagnosed from 1973 to 1986 (SIR, 2.24; 95% CI, 2.13-2.35). The decline in the overall SIR mostly resulted from declines in digestive tract and breast cancers. The SIRs of most other solid tumors and hematologic malignancies did not decrease. After adjusting for age, gender, and race, patients with a diagnosis from 1973 to 1986 had a 12% greater risk of developing SCs (hazard ratio, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.03-1.23; P = .01) compared with the patients with a diagnosis from 1987 to 2000.

CONCLUSION

Although the overall risk of SCs in patients with HL declined after modifications in HL treatment, the risk did not change significantly at most individual sites. Thus, close follow-up with active surveillance for SCs is crucial for long-term survivors of HL.

High burden of subsequent malignant neoplasms and cardiovascular disease in long-term Hodgkin lymphoma survivors

Background:

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients are at an increased risk of late adverse treatment effects. While published studies focussed on the risk of either subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) or cardiovascular disease (CVD), we examined the combined burden from SMN and CVD.

Methods:

In 2908 5-year HL survivors treated between 1965 and 2000, the burden from SMN and/or CVD was assessed using cumulative incidences (CIs) and the mean cumulative count (MCC).

Results:

We identified 888 SMNs and 1153 CVDs in 1247 patients (median follow-up 22 years). At 40 years, the CI for developing either SMN or CVD was 68% and the CI for developing both SMN and CVD was 17%, and an average of 1.2 events per patient (MCC) was observed. HL patients who developed a solid malignancy had similar 15-year risks to develop another subsequent malignancy or CVD (15%), whereas patients who developed a CVD after HL had a higher 15-year risk to develop another CVD compared with a subsequent malignancy (46 vs 15%). Radiotherapy was the strongest risk factor for developing both SMN and CVD in multivariable Cox regression models.

Conclusions:

Treating physicians should be aware of the increased risk of both SMN and CVD in patients treated for HL until 2000.

Synchronous Hodgkin lymphoma and gastric adenocarcinoma: A rare case report and literature review

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a lymphoproliferative disease arising in the lymphoid tissue, which is characterized by Reed-Sternberg cells. Adenocarcinoma is the most frequent pathological type of stomach cancer. Improved survival in HL patients leads to the development of secondary malignancies. However, synchronous occurrence of these 2 malignancies is extremely rare. Here, we present a 45-year-old male complaining of a lymph node mass in the neck, without any abdominal symptoms, diagnosed as HL and gastric adenocarcinoma with hepatitis B carrier status. We treated the patient with 8 courses of pirarubicin bleomycin, vincristine, and dacarbazine (modified ABVD), and 4 courses of capecitabine therapy concurrently along with oral entecavir, as the patient survived longer than 20 months.The prognosis of multiple primary malignancies is poor because therapy is difficult, without a standard treatment. The frequency of multiple primary malignancies is increasing in recent years, and second malignancies in patients with cancer should be taken into consideration.

Cholangiocarcinoma following external beam radiotherapy: A report of two cases

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a relatively rare primary malignancy, with established risk factors that include primary sclerosing cholangitis, choledochal cysts and hepatolithiasis. In the present study, two cases of CCA, which occurred following abdominal external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, are reported. Case 1 and 2 were diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma 30 and 4 years following treatment with combined chemotherapy and abdominal radiotherapy treatment, respectively. The patients received chemotherapy as treatment of cholangiocarcinoma; however, whilst their symptoms improved, they succumbed within 12 and 2 months respectively following the diagnosis with cholangiocarcinoma. Currently, the association between radiation exposure and hepatobiliary malignancy remains unclear, however, we hypothesize that biliary epithelium sensitivity to ionizing radiation may have contributed to the etiology of the secondary malignancies observed in these two patients. This study indicates that patients treated with abdominal EBRT may benefit from a heightened index of suspicion and more intensive surveillance for secondary biliary malignancies.

Infradiaphragmatic irradiation and high procarbazine doses increase colorectal cancer risk in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors

BACKGROUND

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors are at increased risk of second malignancies, but few studies have assessed colorectal cancer (CRC) risk after HL treatment. We assessed long-term, subsite-specific CRC risk associated with specific radiation fields and chemotherapy regimens.

METHODS

In a Dutch cohort of 3121 5-year HL survivors treated between 1965 and 1995, subsite-specific CRC incidence was compared with general population rates. Treatment effects were quantified by Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 22.9 years, 55 patients developed CRC. The standardized incidence ratios (SIR) was 2.4-fold increased (95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.8-3.2), leading to 5.7 excess cases per 10 000 patient-years. Risk was still increased 30 years after HL treatment (SIR: 2.8; 95%CI: 1.6-4.6). The highest (SIR: 6.5, 95%CI: 3.3-11.3) was seen for transverse colon cancer (15.0 (95%CI: 4.3-40.8) after inverted-Y irradiation). A prescribed cumulative procarbazine dose >4.2 g m^-2 was associated with a 3.3-fold higher CRC risk (95%CI: 1.8-6.1) compared to treatment without procarbazine. Patients receiving >4.2 g m^-2 procarbazine and infradiaphragmatic radiotherapy had a hazard ratio of 6.8 (95%CI: 3.0-15.6) compared with patients receiving neither treatment, which is significantly higher than an additive joint effect (P_additivity=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Colorectal cancer surveillance should be considered for HL survivors who received Infradiaphragmatic radiotherapy and a high cumulative procarbazine dose.

Long-Term Risk of Subsequent Malignant Neoplasms After Treatment of Childhood Cancer in the DCOG LATER Study Cohort: Role of Chemotherapy

Purpose Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) are at increased risk for subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs). We evaluated the long-term risk of SMNs in a well-characterized cohort of 5-year CCSs, with a particular focus on individual chemotherapeutic agents and solid cancer risk. Methods The Dutch Childhood Cancer Oncology Group-Long-Term Effects After Childhood Cancer cohort includes 6,165 5-year CCSs diagnosed between 1963 and 2001 in the Netherlands. SMNs were identified by linkages with the Netherlands Cancer Registry, the Dutch Pathology Registry, and medical chart review. We calculated standardized incidence ratios, excess absolute risks, and cumulative incidences. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were used to evaluate treatment-associated risks for breast cancer, sarcoma, and all solid cancers. Results After a median follow-up of 20.7 years (range, 5.0 to 49.8 years) since first diagnosis, 291 SMNs were ascertained in 261 CCSs (standardized incidence ratio, 5.2; 95% CI, 4.6 to 5.8; excess absolute risk, 20.3/10,000 person-years). Cumulative SMN incidence at 25 years after first diagnosis was 3.9% (95% CI, 3.4% to 4.6%) and did not change noticeably among CCSs treated in the 1990s compared with those treated earlier. We found dose-dependent doxorubicin-related increased risks of all solid cancers ( P_trend < .001) and breast cancer ( P_trend < .001). The doxorubicin-breast cancer dose response was stronger in survivors of Li-Fraumeni syndrome-associated childhood cancers (leukemia, CNS, and non-Ewing sarcoma) versus survivors of other cancers ( P_difference = .008). In addition, cyclophosphamide was found to increase sarcoma risk in a dose-dependent manner ( P_trend = .01). Conclusion The results strongly suggest that doxorubicin exposure in CCSs increases the risk of subsequent solid cancers and breast cancer, whereas cyclophosphamide exposure increases the risk of subsequent sarcomas. These results may inform future childhood cancer treatment protocols and SMN surveillance guidelines for CCSs.

A review of uncertainties in radiotherapy dose reconstruction and their impacts on dose-response relationships

Proper understanding of the risk of radiation-induced late effects for patients receiving external photon beam radiotherapy requires the determination of reliable dose-response relationships. Although significant efforts have been devoted to improving dose estimates for the study of late effects, the most often questioned explanatory variable is still the dose. In this work, based on a literature review, we provide an in-depth description of the radiotherapy dose reconstruction process for the study of late effects. In particular, we focus on the identification of the main sources of dose uncertainty involved in this process and summarise their impacts on the dose-response relationship for radiotherapy late effects. We provide a number of recommendations for making progress in estimating the uncertainties in current studies of radiotherapy late effects and reducing these uncertainties in future studies.

Stomach Cancer Following Hodgkin Lymphoma, Testicular Cancer and Cervical Cancer: A Pooled Analysis of Three International Studies with a Focus on Radiation Effects

To further understand the risk of stomach cancer after fractionated high-dose radiotherapy, we pooled individual-level data from three recent stomach cancer case-control studies. These studies were nested in cohorts of five-year survivors of first primary Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), testicular cancer (TC) or cervical cancer (CX) from seven countries. Detailed data were abstracted from patient records and radiation doses were reconstructed to the site of the stomach cancer for cases and to the corresponding sites for matched controls. Among 327 cases and 678 controls, mean doses to the stomach were 15.3 Gy, 24.7 Gy and 1.9 Gy, respectively, for Hodgkin lymphoma, testicular cancer and cervical cancer survivors, with an overall mean dose of 10.3 Gy. Risk increased with increasing radiation dose to the stomach cancer site (P < 0.001) with no evidence of nonlinearity or of a downturn at the highest doses (≥35 Gy). The pooled excess odds ratio per Gy (EOR/Gy) was 0.091 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.036-0.20] with estimates of 0.049 (95% CI: 0.007-0.16) for Hodgkin lymphoma, 0.27 (95% CI: 0.054-1.44) for testicular cancer and 0.096 (95% CI: -0.002-0.39) for cervical cancer (P homogeneity = 0.25). The EOR/Gy increased with time since exposure (P trend = 0.004), with an EOR/Gy of 0.38 (95% CI: 0.12-1.04) for stomach cancer occurring ≥20 years postirradiation corresponding to odds ratios of 4.8 and 10.5 at radiation doses to the stomach of 10 and 25 Gy, respectively. Of 111 stomach cancers occurring ≥20 years after radiotherapy, 63.8 (57%) could be attributed to radiotherapy. Our findings differ from those based on Japanese atomic-bomb survivors, where the overall EOR/Gy was higher and where there was no evidence of an increase with time since exposure. By pooling data from three studies, we demonstrated a clear increase in stomach cancer risk over a wide range of doses from fractionated radiotherapy with the highest risks occurring many years after exposure. These findings highlight the need to directly evaluate the health effects of high-dose fractionated radiotherapy rather than relying on the data of persons exposed at low and moderate acute doses.