Risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms in long-term hereditary retinoblastoma survivors after chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Risk of Subsequent Neoplasms in Childhood Cancer Survivors After Radiation Therapy: A PENTEC Comprehensive Review

PURPOSE

A Pediatric Normal Tissue Effects in the Clinic (PENTEC) analysis of published investigations of central nervous system (CNS) subsequent neoplasms (SNs), subsequent sarcomas, and subsequent lung cancers in childhood cancer survivors who received radiation therapy (RT) was performed to estimate the effect of RT dose on the risk of SNs and the modification of this risk by host and treatment factors.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A systematic literature review was performed to identify data published from 1975 to 2022 on SNs after prior RT in childhood cancer survivors. After abstract review, usable quantitative and qualitative data were extracted from 83 studies for CNS SNs, 118 for subsequent sarcomas, and 10 for lung SNs with 4 additional studies (3 for CNS SNs and 1 for lung SNs) later added. The incidences of SNs, RT dose, age, sex, primary cancer diagnosis, chemotherapy exposure, and latent time from primary diagnosis to SNs were extracted to assess the factors influencing risk for SNs. The excess relative ratio (ERR) for developing SNs as a function of dose was analyzed using inverse-variance weighted linear regression, and the ERR/Gy was estimated. Excess absolute risks were also calculated.

RESULTS

The ERR/Gy for subsequent meningiomas was estimated at 0.44 (95% CI, 0.19-0.68); for malignant CNS neoplasms, 0.15 (95% CI, 0.11-0.18); for sarcomas, 0.045 (95% CI, 0.023-0.067); and for lung cancer, 0.068 (95% CI, 0.03-0.11). Younger age at time of primary diagnosis was associated with higher risk of subsequent meningioma and sarcoma, whereas no significant effect was observed for age at exposure for risk of malignant CNS neoplasm, and insufficient data were available regarding age for lung cancer. Females had a higher risk of subsequent meningioma (odds ratio, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.22-1.76; P < .0001) relative to males, whereas no statistically significant sex difference was seen in risk of malignant CNS neoplasms, sarcoma SNs, or lung SNs. There was an association between chemotherapy receipt (specifically alkylating agents and anthracyclines) and subsequent sarcoma risk, whereas there was no clear association between specific chemotherapeutic agents and risk of CNS SNs and lung SNs.

CONCLUSIONS

This PENTEC systematic review shows a significant radiation dose-response relationship for CNS SNs, sarcomas, and lung SNs. Given the linear dose response, improved conformality around the target volume that limits the high dose volume might be a promising strategy for reducing the risk of SNs after RT. Other host- and treatment-related factors such as age and chemotherapy play a significant contributory role in the development of SNs and should be considered when estimating the risk of SNs after RT among childhood cancer survivors.

Design, Synthesis, Docking Studies and Molecular Dynamics Simulation of New 1,3,5-Triazine Derivatives as Anticancer Agents Selectively Targeting Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma (Capan-1)

On the basis of remarkable anticancer profile of s-triazine nucleus, a new series of 2-methoxy-4-(3-morpholino-5-(arylamino)phenoxy)benzaldehyde derivatives 11 a-u was prepared and evaluated for in vitro antiproliferative activity against eight diverse human cancer cell lines (Capan-1, HCT-116, LN229, NCI-H460, DND-41, HL-60, K562 and Z138). Compounds 11 o, 11 r and 11 s were the most potent anticancer agents on pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Capan-1) cell line with IC50 value of 1.4, 5.1 and 5.3 μM, respectively, while compounds 11 f, 11 g, 11 k, 11 l and 11 n displayed selective activity against the pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Capan-1) cell line with IC50 values of 7.3-11.5 μM. These results indicate that derivative 11 o may serve as a promising lead compound for the ongoing development of novel antiproliferative agents. The docking studies were conducted to predict the interactions of derivative 11 o with putative protein targets in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Capan-1) cell line, specifically the prenyl-binding protein PDEδ. Furthermore, the analysis of the molecular dynamics simulation results demonstrated that complex 11 o promoted a higher stability to the prenyl-binding protein PDEδ.

Incidence of second primary cancers in patients with retinoblastoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the risk of second primary cancers (SPCs) among retinoblastoma (Rb) patients, both hereditary and nonhereditary. Previous studies have reported on the long-term risk of SPCs in these patient populations, but a comprehensive synthesis of the existing evidence is lacking.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library from inception to 12 March 2023, supplemented by manual screening. Eligible studies were identified, and data were extracted. The primary outcome measure was the standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of SPCs in Rb patients. Summary estimates were calculated using random or fixed effects models. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

Ten studies, including nine high-quality studies, were included in this review. The summary estimate of SIR for SPCs among hereditary Rb patients was 17.55 (95% CI=13.10-23.51), while the pooled estimate of SIR for SPCs among nonhereditary Rb patients was 1.36 (95% CI=0.90-2.04). Significant differences in SIRs for different SPC types were observed (P=0.028), including nasal cavity tumor (SIR=591.06, 95% CI=162.79-2146.01), bone tumor (SIR=442.91, 95% CI=191.63-1023.68), soft tissue sarcoma (SIR=202.93, 95% CI=114.10-360.93), CNS (SIR=12.84, 95% CI=8.80-18.74), and female breast cancer (SIR=3.68, 95% CI=2.52-5.37). Chemotherapy and radiation therapy were associated with an increased risk of SPCs among hereditary Rb patients.

Discussion

The findings of this review indicate that hereditary Rb patients have a significantly elevated risk of developing SPCs, whereas nonhereditary Rb patients do not show the same risk. Furthermore, significant differences were observed in the SIRs of different SPC types. Treatment techniques, specifically chemotherapy and radiation therapy, were associated with an increased risk of SPCs among hereditary Rb patients. These findings highlight the importance of radiation protection for Rb patients and the need for further research and tailored management strategies for this high-risk population.

Ocular and orbital tumors in childhood

Pediatric tumors of the eye and orbit can be benign or malignant as well as congenital or acquired and are usually distinctively different than those seen in adults. Although most of these neoplasms are benign (eg, dermoid cyst, chalazion, molluscum), their location near and within a vital organ can result in serious dermatologic and ophthalmologic sequelae. Lesions discussed include vascular lesions, retinoblastomas (the most common primary pediatric intraocular malignancy), rhabdomyosarcoma (the most common primary pediatric orbital malignancy), Langerhans cell histiocytosis, and metastatic lesions to the orbit (neuroblastoma, Ewing sarcoma). Although cysts and ocular melanoma can occur within the pediatric population, these conditions are covered in other contributions in this issue of Clinics in Dermatology.

Progress of Cancer Stem Cells in Retinoblastoma

The theory of cancer stem cells is a breakthrough discovery that offers exciting possibilities for comprehending the biological behavior of tumors. More and more evidence suggests that retinoblastoma cancer stem cells promote tumor growth and are likely to be the origin of tumor formation, drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. At present, some progress has been made in the verification, biological behavior, and drug resistance mechanism of retinoblastoma cancer stem cells. This article aims to review the relevant research and explore future development direction.

Neuroimaging of Ocular Abnormalities in Children

In this article, we will discuss the essential MR imaging protocol required for the assessment of ocular abnormalities including malignancies. Then we will describe relevant anatomy, ocular embryogenesis, and genetics to establish a profound understanding of pathophysiology of the congenital ocular malformations. Finally, we will discuss pediatric ocular malignancies, benign mimics, and the most common congenital ocular malformations with case examples and illustrations and give tips on how to distinguish these entities on neuroimaging.

Does the Clinical Presentation of Secondary Osteosarcoma in Patients Who Survive Retinoblastoma Differ From That of Conventional Osteosarcoma and How Do We Detect Them?

BACKGROUND

Osteosarcoma is the most common secondary malignancy among survivors of retinoblastoma. Most previous reports on secondary malignancy of retinoblastoma included all types of secondary malignancies without a focus on osteosarcoma, owing to its rarity. In addition, there are few studies suggesting tools for regular surveillance for early detection.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) What are the radiologic and clinical characteristics of secondary osteosarcoma after retinoblastoma? (2) What is the clinical survivorship? (3) Is a radionuclide bone scan a reasonable imaging modality for early detection in patients with retinoblastoma?

METHODS

Between February 2000 and December 2019, we treated 540 patients for retinoblastoma. Twelve patients (six male, six female) subsequently developed an osteosarcoma in the extremities; two of these patients had two sites of osteosarcoma (10 femurs, four tibiae) . A Technetium-99m bone scan image was examined annually in all patients for regular surveillance after the treatment of retinoblastoma as per our hospital's policy. All patients were treated with the same strategy as that used for primary conventional osteosarcoma, namely neoadjuvant chemotherapy, wide excision, and adjuvant chemotherapy. The median follow-up period was 12 years (range 8 to 21 years). The median age at the time of diagnosis of osteosarcoma was 9 years (range 5 to 15 years), and the median interval from retinoblastoma diagnosis to osteosarcoma diagnosis was 8 years (range 5 to 15 years). Radiologic characteristics were assessed with plain radiographs and MRI, while clinical characteristics were assessed through a retrospective review of medical records. For clinical survivorship, we evaluated overall survival, local recurrence-free survival, and metastasis-free survival. We reviewed the results of bone scans and clinical symptoms at the time of diagnosis for osteosarcoma after retinoblastoma.

RESULTS

In nine of 14 patients, the tumor had a diaphyseal center, and five of the tumors were located at the metaphysis. The femur was the most common site (n = 10), followed by the tibia (n = 4). The median tumor size was 9 cm (range 5 to 13 cm). There was no local recurrence after surgical resection of the osteosarcoma, and the 5-year overall survival rate after the diagnosis of osteosarcoma was 86% (95% CI 68% to 100%). In all 14 tumors, the Technetium bone scan showed increased uptake in the lesions. Ten of 14 tumors were examined in clinic because of patient complaints of pain in the affected limb. Four patients showed no clinical symptoms detected by abnormal uptake on bone scan.

CONCLUSION

For unclear reasons, secondary osteosarcomas in patients who were alive after the treatment of retinoblastoma had a slight predilection for the diaphysis of the long bone compared with patients with spontaneous osteosarcoma in other reports. The clinical survivorship of osteosarcoma as a secondary malignancy after retinoblastoma may not be inferior to that of conventional osteosarcoma. Close follow-up with at least yearly clinical assessment and bone scans or other imaging modalities appears to be helpful in detecting secondary osteosarcoma after the treatment of patients with retinoblastoma. Larger multi-institutional studies will be needed to substantiate these observations.Level of Evidenc e Level IV, therapeutic study.

Causes of death and survival analysis for patients with retinoblastoma in Jordan

Purpose

To analyze causes and prognostic factors for death among Retinoblastoma (Rb) patients treated at a single specialized tertiary cancer center in Jordan.

Methods

We reviewed the mortality causes for all Rb patients who have been treated at the King Hussein Cancer Center between 2003 and 2019 and were followed for at least 3 years after diagnosis. The main outcome measures included demographics, laterality, tumor stage, treatment modalities, metastasis, survival, and causes of death.

Results

Twenty-four (5%) of the 478 patients died from retinoblastoma and 5-year survival was 94%. The mean age at diagnosis was 15 months (median, 18 months; range, 4-38 months); eight (33%) received diagnoses within the first year of life. Eleven (46%) were boys, 16 (67%) had bilateral disease, and 3 (13%) had a positive family history. The stage for the worst eye was C for 1 (4%) patient, D in 6 (25%) patients, and E (T3) in 15 (63%) patients. Two patients had extraocular Rb at diagnosis, and four of the patients who had intraocular Rb at diagnosis refused treatment and then came back with extraocular Rb. In total, extraocular disease was encountered in six eyes (six patients). After a 120-month median follow-up period, 24 patients (5%) died of second neoplasms (n = 3) or metastases (n = 21). Significant predictive factors for metastasis and death included advanced IIRC tumor stage (p < 0.0001), the presence of high-risk pathological features in the enucleated eyes (p = 0.013), parental refusal of the recommended primary treatment plan (p < 0.0001), and extraocular extension (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The 5-year survival rates of Rb patients in Jordan are as high as those in high-income countries. However, 5% are still dying from metastatic disease, prompting the need for awareness campaigns to educate the public about the high cure rates and to prevent treatment abandonment.

Pharmacokinetics of Orbital Topotecan After Ophthalmic Artery Chemosurgery and Intravenous Infusion in the Swine Model

Purpose

Surgery, multiagent systemic chemotherapy, and radiation are used for patients with orbital retinoblastoma but are associated with unacceptable short- and long-term toxicity (including death). We studied orbital and systemic exposure of topotecan in the swine model after ophthalmic artery chemosurgery (OAC) and intravenous (IV) delivery.

Methods

Landrace pigs (n = 3) underwent 30-minute OAC of topotecan (4 mg), and samples were serially obtained from the femoral artery and from a microdialysis probe inserted into the lateral rectus muscle sheath of the infused eye as a surrogate of the orbital irrigation. Animals were recovered, and, after a wash-out period, plasma and microdialysate samples from the contralateral eye were collected after a 30-minute IV infusion of topotecan (4 mg). Samples were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography, and population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted using MonolixSuite.

Results

After OAC, median topotecan exposure in the orbit was 5624 ng × h/mL (range 3922-12531) compared to 23 ng × h/mL (range 18-75) after IV infusion. Thus, topotecan exposure in the orbit was 218-fold (range 75-540) higher after OAC than after IV infusion despite comparable systemic exposure (AUCpl) between routes (AUCpl, OAC: 141 ng × h/mL [127-191] versus AUCpl, IV: 139 ng × h/mL [126-186]). OAC was more selective to target the orbit because the median (range) orbital-to-plasma exposure ratio was 44 (28-65) after OAC compared to 0.18 (0.13-0.40) after IV infusion.

Conclusions

OAC of topotecan resulted in higher orbital exposure than after IV infusion and was a more selective route for local drug delivery. Patients with orbital retinoblastoma may benefit from a multimodal treatment strategy including OAC therapy.

Camouflage Nanoparticles Enable in Situ Bioluminescence-Driven Optogenetic Therapy of Retinoblastoma

Optogenetic therapy has emerged as a promising technique for the treatment of ocular diseases; however, most optogenetic tools rely on external blue light to activate the photoswitch, whose relatively strong phototoxicity may induce retinal damage. Herein, we present the demonstration of camouflage nanoparticle-based vectors for in situ bioluminescence-driven optogenetic therapy of retinoblastoma. In biomimetic vectors, the photoreceptor CRY2 and its interacting partner CIB1 plasmid are camouflaged with folic acid ligands and luciferase NanoLuc-modified macrophage membranes. To conduct proof-of-concept research, this study employs a mouse model of retinoblastoma. In comparison to external blue light irradiation, the developed system enables an in situ bioluminescence-activated apoptotic pathway to inhibit tumor growth with greater therapeutic efficacy, resulting in a significant reduction in ocular tumor size. Furthermore, unlike external blue light irradiation, which causes retinal damage and corneal neovascularization, the camouflage nanoparticle-based optogenetic system maintains retinal structural integrity while avoiding corneal neovascularization.

Retinoblastoma: Review and new insights

Retinoblastoma (Rb), the most frequent malignant intraocular tumor in childhood, is caused by mutations in the retinoblastoma gene (RB1) situated on chromosome 13q14.2. The incidence of retinoblastoma is approximately 1 in 17,000 live births with approximately 8,000 new cases diagnosed each year worldwide. Rb is the prototypical hereditary cancer in humans. Autosomal dominant inheritance is seen in 30-40% of cases whereas the non-inherited sporadic type accounts for the remaining 60-70%. Rb arises due to inactivation of both alleles of the Rb tumor suppressor gene, which results in a defective Rb protein (pRB) with subsequent cell cycle impairment and uncontrolled cell proliferation. Patients with Rb have survival rates higher than 95-98% in industrialized countries but mortality remains high in developing countries. For example, the mortality rate in Africa is 70%. In all cases of intraocular and extraocular retinoblastoma, there is a need for new therapies that are more effective and carry less risk of toxicity. The Bruckner test is a practical and easy test for the detection of Rb, this test consists of assessing the fundus reflex through the pupil (red reflex) in both eyes simultaneously with a bright coaxial light produced with the direct ophthalmoscope. Rb can be detected by the Bruckner test showing a pupil that shines white or “Leukocoria”. Although the diagnosis of Rb remains essentially clinical, the newly identified biomarkers could contribute to early molecular detection, timely detection of micrometastases and establish new therapeutic options for Rb.

Subsequent malignant neoplasms in the pediatric age in retinoblastoma survivors in Argentina

BACKGROUND

Retinoblastoma survivors in low- and middle-income countries are exposed to high-intensity treatments that potentially place them at higher risk of early subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs).

METHODS

We followed 714 (403 [56.4%] nonhereditary and 311 [43.5%] hereditary) retinoblastoma survivors diagnosed from August 1987 to December 2016, up to the age of 16 years. We quantified risk of SMNs with cumulative incidence (CI) and standardized incidence ratios (SIR) analysis. Multivariate regression Cox model was used to determine the association of treatments and risk of SMNs.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was of 9 years (range: 0.18-16.9) and 24 survivors (3.36%) developed 25 SMNs (n = 22 hereditary, n = 2 nonhereditary). SMNs included sarcomas (osteosarcomas, Ewing sarcomas, rhabdomyosarcomas; n = 12), leukemias (n = 5), and central nervous system tumors (CNS; n = 3). All cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and most of Ewing sarcomas occurred within 5 years of retinoblastoma diagnosis. The type of SMN was the main indicator of mortality (five of five patients with leukemias, six of 12 with sarcomas, and zero of three with CNS tumors died). Compared to the general population, radiation increased the risk of Ewing sarcoma in hereditary survivors by 700-fold (95% CI = 252-2422.6) and chemotherapy increased the risk of AML by 140-fold (95% CI = 45.3-436). The CI of SMNs for hereditary survivors was 13.7% (95% CI = 8.4-22.1) at 15 years.

CONCLUSION

Retinoblastoma survivors from Argentina are at higher risk of developing SMNs early in life compared to the general Argentinean population, especially those treated with radiation plus chemotherapy. AML and Ewing sarcoma presented within 5 years of retinoblastoma diagnosis are associated with chemotherapy and radiation exposure.

Treatment of Retinoblastoma: What Is the Latest and What Is the Future

The management of retinoblastoma, the most common intraocular malignancy in children, has changed drastically over the last decade. Landmark developments in local drug delivery, namely, safer techniques for intravitreal chemotherapy injection and ophthalmic artery chemosurgery, have resulted in eye globe salvages that were not previously attainable using systemic chemotherapy or external beam irradiation. Novel drugs, oncolytic viruses, and immunotherapy are promising approaches in the treatment of intraocular retinoblastoma. Importantly, emerging studies of the pattern of tumor dissemination and local drug delivery may provide the first steps toward new treatments for metastatic disease. Here, we review recent advances in retinoblastoma treatment, especially with regard to local drug delivery, that have enabled successful conservative management of intraocular retinoblastoma. We also review emerging data from preclinical and clinical studies on innovative approaches that promise to lead to further improvement in outcomes, namely, the mechanisms and potential uses of new and repurposed drugs and non-chemotherapy treatments, and discuss future directions for therapeutic development.

Analysis of Cause-Specific Mortality in Patients with Retinoblastoma

Background. Retinoblastoma (RB) is a rare pediatric tumor with a relatively favorable prognosis. However, RB is associated with cause-specific mortality, some of that should be of great importance to clinicians. In this study, we summarize the characteristics of cause-specific mortality from nontumor disease in patients with RB. Methods. This retrospective case series study identified and analyzed cause-specific mortality in patients with RB. The information of cause-specific mortality of RB patients, including detailed clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment process, cause-specific mortality classification, and lag time, was assessed. Results. A total of 12 eligible patients were selected from 264 patients who died among 3780 patients diagnosed with RB. The cause-specific mortality rate was 4.5% for all patients with RB who died and 0.3% for all patients with RB. The main nontumor cause-specific mortalities were diseases of the nervous, circulatory, and respiratory systems, which specifically included intracranial infection, cerebral hemorrhage, paraplegia, and respiratory failure. The longest lag time was 42 days from the last chemoradiotherapy or surgery. Conclusion. Nontumor cause-specific mortality is an essential outcome of RB. Thus, intensive care and differentiation during management need to be taken seriously.

New Benzimidazole-, 1,2,4-Triazole-, and 1,3,5-Triazine-Based Derivatives as Potential EGFRWT and EGFRT790M Inhibitors: Microwave-Assisted Synthesis, Anticancer Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Study

A new series of benzimidazole, 1,2,4-triazole, and 1,3,5-triazine derivatives were designed and synthesized using a microwave irradiation synthetic approach utilizing 2-phenylacetyl isothiocyanate (1) as a key starting material. All the new analogues were evaluated as anticancer agents against a panel of cancer cell lines utilizing doxorubicin as a standard drug. Most of the tested derivatives exhibited selective cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 and A-549 cancer cell lines. Furthermore, the new target compounds 5, 6, and 7 as the most potent antiproliferative agents have been assessed as in vitro EGFR^WT and EGFR^T790M inhibitors compared to the reference drugs erlotinib and AZD9291. They represented more potent suppression activity against the mutated EGFR^T790M than the wild-type EGFR^WT. Moreover, the compounds 5, 6, and 7 down-regulated the oncogenic parameter p53 ubiquitination. A docking simulation of compound 6b was carried out to correlate its molecular structure with its significant EGFR inhibition potency and its possible binding interactions within the active site of EGFR^WT and the mutant EGFR^T790M.

Comparing efficacy and side effects of two systemic chemotherapy regimens for eye-preserving therapy in children with retinoblastoma

BACKGROUND

Eye-preserving therapy in retinoblastoma comprises systemic chemotherapy, but studies analyzing the efficacy of different chemotherapy regimens are scarce.

METHODS

The efficacy and side effects of two different eye-preserving chemotherapy regimens containing either vincristine, etoposide, and carboplatin (VEC) or cyclophosphamide, vincristine, etoposide, and carboplatin (CyVEC) were compared in a prospective non-interventional observational study including children diagnosed with retinoblastoma between 2013 and 2019 in Germany and Austria. Event-free eye survival (EFES) and overall eye survival (OES) of all 164 eyes treated with both regimens and risk factors were investigated.

RESULTS

The EFES after VEC (2-year EFES 72.3%) was higher than after CyVEC (2-year EFES 50.4%) (p_logrank  < .001). The OES did not differ significantly between the two treatment groups (p_logrank  = .77; 2-year OES VEC: 82.1% vs. CyVEC: 84.8%). Advanced International Classification of Retinoblastoma (ICRB) group was prognostic for a lower EFES (p_logrank  < .0001; 2-year EFES ICRB A/B/C 71.3% vs. ICRB D/E 43.0%) and OES (p_logrank  < .0001; 2-year OES ICRB A/B/C 93.1% vs. ICRB D/E 61.5%). The multivariate analysis showed that age at diagnosis older than 12 months and ICRB A/B/C were associated with better EFES. No second malignancies or ototoxicities were reported after a follow-up of median 3.1 years after diagnosis of retinoblastoma (range 0.1-6.9 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite omitting cyclophosphamide, the EFES was higher after VEC chemotherapy that contains higher doses of carboplatin compared to CyVEC. The major risk factor for enucleation was advanced ICRB tumor grouping. Randomized clinical trials on efficacy and side effects of eye-preserving chemotherapy are required to tailor treatment protocols for retinoblastoma patients.

Long-term Follow-up Care for Childhood, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Survivors

Progress in therapy has made survival into adulthood a reality for most children, adolescents, and young adults with a cancer diagnosis today. Notably, this growing population remains vulnerable to a variety of long-term therapy-related sequelae. Systematic ongoing follow-up of these patients is, therefore, important to provide for early detection of and intervention for potentially serious late-onset complications. In addition, health counseling and promotion of healthy lifestyles are important aspects of long-term follow-up care to promote risk reduction for physical and emotional health problems that commonly present during adulthood. Both general and subspecialty health care providers are playing an increasingly important role in the ongoing care of childhood cancer survivors, beyond the routine preventive care, health supervision, and anticipatory guidance provided to all patients. This report is based on the guidelines that have been developed by the Children's Oncology Group to facilitate comprehensive long-term follow-up of childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors (www.survivorshipguidelines.org).

Hydrogel implants for transscleral diffusion delivery of topotecan: In vivo proof of concept in a rabbit eye model

Treatment of retinoblastoma (Rb) has greatly improved in recent years in terms of survival and eye salvage rates, using mainly intra-arterial or intravitreal chemotherapy. However, the treatment of vitreous tumor seeding still represents a challenge and it is of great interest to develop new strategies to deliver pharmacologically sufficient drug amounts to the vitreous humor. In the present work, we present a lens-shaped bi-layered hydrogel implant for delivery of topotecan (TPT) via transscleral diffusion. The implant consists of an inner TPT-loaded poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) layer adjacent to the sclera and an outer covering poly(2-ethoxyethyl methacrylate) (pEOEMA) layer impermeable to TPT. TPT-loaded pHEMA samples exhibit long-lasting in vitro cytotoxicity against the Rb cell line Y79. In an in vivo experiment, pHEMA/pEOEMA implants are successfully surgically administered to the posterior segment of rabbit eyes. The determination of TPT pharmacokinetics demonstrates the attainment of promising levels of TPT (10 ng/ml) in vitreous humor 8 h after implant placement. The results from the pilot experiment constitute the proof of principle for the use of the proposed implants as a drug delivery system for the local treatment of intraocular diseases.

Adjuvant therapy of histopathological risk factors of retinoblastoma in Europe: A survey by the European Retinoblastoma Group (EURbG)

INTRODUCTION

Advanced intraocular retinoblastoma can be cured by enucleation, but spread of retinoblastoma cells beyond the natural limits of the eye is related to a high mortality. Adjuvant therapy after enucleation has been shown to prevent metastasis in children with risk factors for extraocular retinoblastoma. However, histological criteria and adjuvant treatment regimens vary and there is no unifying consensus on the optimal choice of treatment.

METHOD

Data on guidelines for adjuvant treatment in European retinoblastoma referral centres were collected in an online survey among all members of the European Retinoblastoma Group (EURbG) network. Extended information was gathered via personal email communication.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 26 centres in 17 countries. Guidelines for adjuvant treatment were in place at 92.3% of retinoblastoma centres. There was a consensus on indication for and intensity of adjuvant treatment among more than 80% of all centres. The majority of centres use no adjuvant treatment for isolated focal choroidal invasion or prelaminar optic nerve invasion. Patients with massive choroidal invasion or postlaminar optic nerve invasion receive adjuvant chemotherapy, while microscopic invasion of the resection margin of the optic nerve or extension through the sclera are treated with combined chemo- and radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Indications and adjuvant treatment regimens in European retinoblastoma referral centres are similar but not uniform. Further biomarkers in addition to histopathological risk factors could improve treatment stratification. The high consensus in European centres is an excellent foundation for a common European study with prospective validation of new biomarkers.

Eye Tumors in Childhood as First Sign of Tumor Predisposition Syndromes: Insights from an Observational Study Conducted in Germany and Austria

Simple Summary

Eye tumors in children are very rare. In Europe, these eye tumors are nearly always diagnosed early and cure rates are high. However, eye tumors in childhood often occur as the first sign of a genetic tumor predisposition syndrome. This study collected data of children with malignant eye tumors diagnosed in five years in Germany and Austria to learn about the association of eye tumors in childhood with tumor predisposition syndrome. The study recruited 300 children with malignant eye tumors in childhood. In the here-presented cohort, more than 40% of eye tumors were associated with rare tumor predisposition syndromes. For this reason, all children with eye tumors and their families should receive genetic counseling for a tumor predisposition syndrome. Children with a genetic predisposition to cancer should receive a tailored surveillance, including detailed history, physical examination and, if indicated, imaging to screen for other cancers later in life.

Abstract

Retinoblastoma and other eye tumors in childhood are rare diseases. Many eye tumors are the first signs of a genetic tumor predisposition syndrome and the affected children carry a higher risk of developing other cancers later in life. Clinical and genetic data of all children with eye tumors diagnosed between 2013–2018 in Germany and Austria were collected in a multicenter prospective observational study. In five years, 300 children were recruited into the study: 287 with retinoblastoma, 7 uveal melanoma, 3 ciliary body medulloepithelioma, 2 retinal astrocytoma, 1 meningioma of the optic nerve extending into the eye. Heritable retinoblastoma was diagnosed in 44% of children with retinoblastoma. One child with meningioma of the optic nerve extending into the eye was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis 2. No pathogenic constitutional variant in DICER1 was detected in a child with medulloepithelioma while two children did not receive genetic analysis. Because of the known association with tumor predisposition syndromes, genetic counseling should be offered to all children with eye tumors. Children with a genetic predisposition to cancer should receive a tailored surveillance including detailed history, physical examinations and, if indicated, imaging to screen for other cancer. Early detection of cancers may reduce mortality.

Benign Tumors in Long-Term Survivors of Retinoblastoma

Simple Summary

It is well-established that hereditary retinoblastoma survivors have a substantially increased risk of developing subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs). Although clinicians have long suspected that this population is also at increased risk for developing benign neoplasms, the evidence is unclear. Benign tumors can substantially impact health status and quality of life, while raising questions for clinicians, when faced with a mass in a retinoblastoma survivor. By 60 years following retinoblastoma diagnosis, 17.6% of hereditary survivors had developed a benign tumor, with lipomas and leiomyomas being the most frequently diagnosed types. Additionally, we report both an increased risk of benign tumors after SMNs and a reciprocal increased risk of SMNs after benign tumors among hereditary retinoblastoma survivors. If confirmed, the large magnitude of the absolute risks and the association between benign tumors and SMNs in this population may have implications for long-term surveillance.

Abstract

Hereditary retinoblastoma survivors have substantially increased risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs). The risk of benign neoplasms, a substantial cause of morbidity, is unclear. We calculated the cumulative incidence of developing benign tumors at 60 years following retinoblastoma diagnosis among 1128 hereditary (i.e., bilateral retinoblastoma or unilateral with family history, mutation testing was not available) and 924 nonhereditary retinoblastoma survivors diagnosed during 1914–2006 at two US medical centers with follow-up through 2016. Using Cox proportional hazards regression, we compared benign tumor risk by hereditary status and evaluated the association between benign tumors and SMNs. There were 100 benign tumors among 73 hereditary survivors (cumulative incidence = 17.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 12.9–22.8%) and 22 benign tumors among 16 nonhereditary survivors (cumulative incidence = 3.9%; 95%CI = 2.2–6.4%), corresponding to 4.9-fold (95%CI = 2.8–8.4) increased risk for hereditary survivors. The cumulative incidence after hereditary retinoblastoma was highest for lipoma among males (14.0%; 95%CI = 7.7–22.1%) and leiomyoma among females (8.9%; 95%CI = 5.2–13.8%). Among hereditary survivors, having a prior SMN was associated with 3.5-fold (95%CI = 2.0–6.1) increased risk of developing a benign tumor; the reciprocal risk for developing an SMN after a benign tumor was 1.8 (95%CI = 1.1–2.9). These large-scale, long-term data demonstrate an increased risk for benign tumors after hereditary versus nonhereditary retinoblastoma. If confirmed, the association between benign tumors and SMNs among hereditary patients may have implications for long-term surveillance.

The role for intra-arterial chemotherapy for refractory retinoblastoma: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Intra-arterial chemotherapy is a new retinoblastoma treatment associated with high rates of globe salvage that has been widely adopted for primary treatment of retinoblastoma but is less frequently used as secondary treatment for refractory retinoblastoma. This systematic review aims to summarize the reported outcomes of intra-arterial chemotherapy for refractory retinoblastoma.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of studies published on PubMed, Medline, and Embase from 2011 to 2021 reporting globe salvage rates following intra-arterial chemotherapy for secondary treatment of refractory retinoblastoma.

RESULTS

Our search yielded 316 studies, and 24 met inclusion criteria. The 24 included studies were comprised of 1366 patients and 1757 eyes. Among these, 1184 (67%) eyes received secondary indication treatment, and globe salvage was achieved for 776 of these 1184 eyes (64%). Sixteen studies reported cannulation success rates from 71.8 to 100%. Pooled analysis of subjects revealed 21 patients (2.6%) with metastatic disease and 26 deaths (3%) during study follow-up periods (7-74 months). The most common ocular complications were vitreous hemorrhage (13.2%), loss of eyelashes (12.7%), and periocular edema (10.5%). The most common systemic complications were nausea/vomiting (20.5%), neutropenia (14.1%), fever (8.2%), and bronchospasm (6.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Intra-arterial chemotherapy is associated with high rates of globe salvage and low rates of serious complications in patients with refractory retinoblastoma. Unfortunately, current literature is predominantly comprised of retrospective case studies, and further high-quality evidence is necessary to inform clinical practice.

General cancer screening practices among adult survivors of retinoblastoma: Results from the Retinoblastoma Survivor Study

We assessed breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening practices in adult retinoblastoma (Rb) survivors and non-Rb controls. We found that most Rb survivors adhered to general population cancer screening recommendations. Rates did not differ among Rb survivors and non-Rb controls, or among survivors by laterality, even though bilateral survivors reported higher levels of concern about future health and cancer risk. Older age, being overweight/obese, and lack of recent contact with medical personnel were independently associated with decreased utilization of Pap smear among female Rb survivors. Future studies are warranted to determine whether these associations might provide an opportunity for intervention.

Subsequent Malignant Neoplasms in Retinoblastoma Survivors

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is a pediatric malignant eye tumor. Subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) and trilateral Rb (TRb) are the leading cause of death in heritable Rb patients in developed countries. The high rate of SMNs in heritable Rb patients is attributed to the presence of a mutation in the RB1 tumor suppressor gene. In addition, Rb therapy choices also influence SMN incidence in this patient group. The incidence rates and age of occurrence for the most frequent SMNs and TRb will be discussed. In addition, the impact of genetic predisposition and Rb treatments on the development of SMNs will be evaluated. Furthermore, screening and other prevention methods will be reviewed.

Long-term risk of subsequent cancer incidence among hereditary and nonhereditary retinoblastoma survivors

BACKGROUND

Increased sarcoma and melanoma risks after hereditary retinoblastoma are well established, whereas less is known about epithelial subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) and risks for multiple (≥2) SMNs.

METHODS

Leveraging long-term follow-up and detailed histologic information, we quantified incident SMN risk among 1128 hereditary and 924 nonhereditary retinoblastoma survivors (diagnosed 1914-2006; follow-up through 2016). Standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) compared cancer risk after retinoblastoma relative to the general population. We estimated cumulative incidence accounting for competing risk of death.

RESULTS

Hereditary survivors had statistically significantly increased SMN risk (N = 239; SIR = 11.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.4-13.5), with SIRs >80-fold for sarcomas, nasal cavity tumours and pineoblastoma. Significantly increased risks were also observed for melanoma and central nervous system, oral cavity and breast SMNs (SIRs = 3.1-17), but not the uterus, kidney, lung, bladder, pancreas or other types. Cumulative incidence 50 years following hereditary retinoblastoma was 33.1% (95% CI 29.0-37.2) for a first SMN and 6.0% (95% CI 3.8-8.2) for a second SMN. SMN risk was not increased after nonhereditary retinoblastoma (N = 25; SIR = 0.8; 95% CI 0.5-1.2).

CONCLUSION

Beyond the established sarcoma and melanoma risks after hereditary retinoblastoma, we demonstrate increased risk for a more limited number of epithelial malignancies than previously suggested. Cumulative incidence estimates emphasise long-term SMN burden after hereditary retinoblastoma.

Recommendations for Long-Term Follow-up of Adults with Heritable Retinoblastoma

PURPOSE

To generate recommendations for long-term follow-up of adult survivors of heritable retinoblastoma.

DESIGN

We convened a meeting of providers from retinoblastoma centers around the world to review the state of the science and to evaluate the published evidence.

PARTICIPANTS

Retinoblastoma is a rare childhood cancer of the retina. Approximately 40% of retinoblastoma cases are heritable, resulting from a germline mutation in RB1. Dramatic improvements in treatment and supportive care have resulted in a growing adult survivor population. However, survivors of heritable retinoblastoma have a significantly increased risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms, particularly bone and soft tissue sarcomas, uterine leiomyosarcoma, melanomas, and radiotherapy-related central nervous system tumors, which are associated with excess morbidity and mortality. Despite these risks, no surveillance recommendations for this population currently are in place, and surveillance practices vary widely by center.

METHODS

Following the Institute of Medicine procedure for clinical practice guideline development, a PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science search was performed, resulting in 139 articles; after abstract and full-text review, 37 articles underwent detailed data abstraction to quantify risk and evidence regarding surveillance, if available. During an in-person meeting, evidence was presented and discussed, resulting in consensus recommendations.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Diagnosis and mortality from subsequent neoplasm.

RESULTS

Although evidence for risk of subsequent neoplasm, especially sarcoma and melanoma, was significant, evidence supporting routine testing of asymptomatic survivors was not identified. Skin examination for melanoma and prompt evaluation of signs and symptoms of head and neck disease were determined to be prudent.

CONCLUSIONS

This review of the literature confirmed some of the common second cancers in retinoblastoma survivors but found little evidence for a benefit from currently available surveillance for these malignancies. Future research should incorporate international partners, patients, and family members.

Incidence and Mortality of Second Primary Cancers in Danish Patients With Retinoblastoma, 1943-2013

IMPORTANCE

In heritable retinoblastoma, there is a significantly increased risk of second primary cancers (SPCs). Improved knowledge about the incidence and influence of heritability and treatment is important during therapy for patients with retinoblastoma.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence of SPC in patients diagnosed with retinoblastoma in Denmark from 1943 to 2013 with a focus on heritability and the association of external radiotherapy with mortality.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

In this retrospective cohort study, data were extracted from the Danish Ocular Oncology Group Database containing complete data on all patients diagnosed with retinoblastoma , and obtained from the Danish Cancer Registry, which includes information on all patients with cancer from 1943 to December 31, 2013. Data analysis was conducted from December 1, 2017, to October 1, 2019. Data on 323 patients were included.

EXPOSURES

Heritability and retinoblastoma treatment.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Standardized incidence rate, excess absolute risk, cumulative incidence of SPC, and mortality from SPC. Association of heritability and treatment with outcomes was estimated.

RESULTS

Of the 323 patients included in the analysis, 181 were men (56%), 133 had heritable retinoblastoma (41%), and 190 had nonheritable retinoblastoma (59%). The median age at diagnosis of SPC was 32.4 (interquartile range, 15.4-43.9) years in patients with heritable retinoblastoma and 38.6 (interquartile range, 20.5-49.4) years in those with nonheritable retinoblastoma. Twenty-five SPCs were identified in patients with heritable retinoblastoma vs 14 in patients with nonheritable retinoblastoma. Standardized incidence rate (SIR) of SPC in patients with heritable retinoblastoma was 11.39 (95% CI, 7.37-16.81) with an excess absolute risk of 70 cases per 10 000 person-years; the highest SIRs were for sarcoma (181.13; 95% CI, 98.94-303.92) and malignant melanoma (26.78; 95% CI, 9.78-58.30). The SIR for SPC in patients with nonheritable retinoblastoma was 1.52 (95% CI, 0.81-2.60). The cumulative incidence of SPCs at age 60 years was significantly higher in patients with heritable retinoblastoma (51%) compared with those with nonheritable retinoblastoma (13%) (P < .001) (hazard ratio, 5.0; 95% CI, 2.5-10.3). No significant differences were identified in overall risk of SPC in patients with heritable retinoblastoma treated with 3 different modalities: external radiotherapy, plaque (but no external) radiotherapy, and enucleation only, but an increased proportion of sarcomas was noted in the irradiated field. Mortality due to SPC was also higher in survivors of heritable retinoblastoma compared with those with nonheritable retinoblastoma (cumulative mortality, 34% vs 12% at age 60 years; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The findings of this study suggest that the incidence and mortality associated with SPC were significantly higher in patients with heritable retinoblastoma vs patients with nonheritable retinoblastoma. The largest increases in risk were noted for sarcoma and malignant melanoma. External radiotherapy did not appear to increase the risk. These findings are relevant when treating patients with retinoblastoma to manage the risk for SPC.

RPL41 sensitizes retinoblastoma cells to chemotherapeutic drugs via ATF4 degradation

Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular cancer with metastatic potential affecting infants and children. Although chemotherapy is available for retinoblastoma, side effects and drug resistance are frequent. Rpl41, encoding ribosomal protein L41 (RPL41), has been identified as a tumor suppressor gene, and its targeted degradation of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) produces an antitumor effect. The goal of the present study is to provide experimental evidence for the clinical application of a small peptide regimen in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of retinoblastoma and to investigate the mechanism of their combined cytotoxicity. It was observed that treatment with the RPL41 peptide alone decreased the viability, migration, and invasion of retinoblastoma Y79 and Weri-Rb1 cells, in addition to promoting cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, RPL41 protein levels showed a significantly decreased trend in retinoblastoma specimens, whereas ATF4 protein levels tended to be increased. Mechanistically, ATF4 degradation as a result of RPL41 peptide treatment was observed in retinoblastoma Y79 and Weri-Rb1 cells. Most important, low-dose administration of the RPL41 peptide significantly enhanced the antitumor effect of carboplatin, and further analysis confirmed their synergistic effect as anti-retinoblastoma therapy, indicating that RPL41 sensitized Y79 and Weri-Rb1 retinoblastoma cells to carboplatin. Thus, our data provide a preclinical rationale for the exploration of the RPL41 peptide as a potential adjuvant to carboplatin treatment in retinoblastoma.

NCCN Guidelines Insights: Survivorship, Version 2.2020

The NCCN Guidelines for Survivorship provide screening, evaluation, and treatment recommendations for consequences of adult-onset cancer and its treatment, with the goal of helping healthcare professionals who work with survivors, including those in primary care. The guidelines also provide recommendations to help clinicians promote physical activity, weight management, and proper immunizations in survivors and facilitate care coordination to ensure that all of the survivors' needs are addressed. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize additions and changes made to the guidelines in 2020 regarding cardiovascular disease risk assessment and screening for subsequent primary malignancies.

Subsequent neoplasms in childhood cancer survivors

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to characterize subsequent neoplasm (SN) (malignant (SMN), benign (BSNs), and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)) treated previously for a childhood solid malignant tumor at the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Motol University Hospital, Prague.

METHOD

We evaluated a cohort of 4059 childhood cancer survivors treated between 1975 and 2018.

RESULTS

From 4059 survivors, 170 (4.3 %) developed at least one SMN - 193 SMNs in 170 survivors, 21 of them (0.5 % of all survivors) had two or more SMNs and 34 of them (0.8 %) had one SMN and one or more BSNs. Mortality for an SMN was 38.2 % i.e. 1.6 % of all survivors. The most frequent SMNs were thyroid carcinoma (37, 19.2 %), tumors of the central nervous system (25, 13.0 %), soft tissue sarcoma (23, 11.9 %), breast carcinoma (19, 9.8 %), and leukemia (11, 5.7 %). Genetic syndromes were present in 25 patients with SMNs (14.7 %) and in 16 patients with only BSNs (13.4 %). SMNs usually developed in second decade or later after finishing of therapy. We observed some not well known risk factors of SNs e.g. spinal irradiation or^131-I metaiodobenzylguanidine radiotherapy in 2 cases of secondary thyroid cancer, cyclophosphamide therapy in all 8 cases of secondary urinary bladder sarcoma or 4 from 7 SNMSC developed SMN.

CONCLUSIONS

We confirmed data from previous studies of SNs and observed some not so well known risk factors. Our results and the literature show that the incidence of SMNs is 3-10 % of survivors and is associated with high mortality.

Risk Factors for Tumor Recurrence Following Primary Intravenous Chemotherapy (Chemoreduction) for Retinoblastoma in 869 Eyes of 551 Patients

PURPOSE

To identify risk factors for retinoblastoma recurrence following chemoreduction.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of patients with retinoblastoma treated from 1994 to 2019 using chemoreduction with analysis for recurrence using Kaplan-Meier, Cox regression, and logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were 869 eyes of 551 patients with retinoblastoma treated with chemoreduction. Follow-up in 556 eyes revealed main solid tumor recurrence (n = 355, 64%), subretinal seed recurrence (n = 244, 44%), vitreous seed recurrence (n = 162, 29%), and/or new tumor (n = 118, 21%) requiring management with focal therapy (transpupillary thermotherapy, cryotherapy) (n = 294, 53%), intra-arterial chemotherapy (n = 125, 22%), intravitreal chemotherapy (n = 36, 6%), plaque radiotherapy (n = 120, 22%), external beam radiotherapy (n = 57, 10%), and/or enucleation (n = 49, 9%). Of all recurrences, 62% were detected by 1 year, 86% by 2 years, 94% by 3 years, 98% by 5 years, 99% by 10 years, and 100% by 15 years. Risk factors for recurrence on multivariate analysis included younger patient age at presentation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02 [1.00 to 1.04] per 1 month decrease, P = .02), greater International Classification of Retinoblastoma group (OR = 1.24 [1.05 to 1.47] per 1 more advanced group, P = .01), shorter tumor distance to optic disc (OR = 1.11 [1.01 to 1.21] per 1 mm decrease, P = .03), and presence of subretinal seeds (OR = 1.66 [1.09 to 2.53], P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Retinoblastoma recurrence after chemoreduction is usually detected within the first 3 years following treatment. Younger patients with more advanced, posteriorly located tumors and subretinal seeds at presentation are at increased risk, but recurrence can often be managed with globe-sparing therapy. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2020;57(4):224-234.].

Patterns of Cause-Specific Mortality Among 2053 Survivors of Retinoblastoma, 1914-2016

BACKGROUND

Previous studies of hereditary retinoblastoma survivors have reported elevated mortality, particularly for sarcomas, compared with the general population. However, cause-specific mortality patterns for long-term hereditary and nonhereditary retinoblastoma survivors are poorly understood.

METHODS

Among 2053 retinoblastoma patients diagnosed during 1914-2006 at two major US treatment centers and followed to 2016, we estimated cumulative mortality, standardized mortality ratios (SMRs), and absolute excess risks (AERs) compared with the US general population.

RESULTS

Most deaths occurred in 1129 hereditary retinoblastoma patients (n = 518 deaths, cumulative mortality 70 years after retinoblastoma = 75.8%, 95% CI = 69.0% to 82.6%; SMR = 8.5, 95% CI = 7.7 to 9.2). Of these, 267 were due to subsequent cancers (SMR = 27.4, 95% CI = 24.2 to 30.9; AER = 72.3 deaths/10 000 person-years), for which SMRs were highest 15-29 years after diagnosis (n = 69, SMR = 89.9, 95% CI = 70.0 to 113.8) but remained statistically significantly elevated at 60 and more years (n = 14, SMR = 6.7, 95% CI = 3.6 to 11.2), whereas AERs increased with time (AER<15years = 38.0; AER60+years = 327.5). Increased risk of death due to cancers of pancreas, large intestines, and kidney were noted for the first time. Overall risk of subsequent cancers was greater for those treated with radiotherapy and chemotherapy compared to radiotherapy alone, although patterns varied by organ site. For 924 patients with nonhereditary retinoblastoma, we noted a modestly increased risk of death for subsequent cancers (n = 27, SMR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.2 to 2.6) possibly due to treatment or misclassification of hereditary status. Risks of noncancer causes of death were not elevated for hereditary or nonhereditary patients.

CONCLUSION

Hereditary retinoblastoma survivors died mainly from an excess risk of subsequent cancers up to six decades later, highlighting the need to develop long-term clinical management guidelines for hereditary retinoblastoma survivors treated in the past.

Identification of co‑expression modules and hub genes of retinoblastoma via co‑expression analysis and protein‑protein interaction networks

Retinoblastoma is a common intraocular malignant tumor in children. However, the molecular and genetic mechanisms of retinoblastoma remain unclear. The gene expression dataset GSE110811 was retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus. After preprocessing, coexpression modules were constructed by weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), and modules associated with clinical traits were identified. In addition, functional enrichment analysis was performed for genes in the indicated modules, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and subnetworks were constructed based on these genes. Eight coexpression modules were constructed through WGCNA. Of these, the yellow module had the highest association with severity and age (r=0.82 and P=3e-07; r=0.72 and P=3e-05). The turquoise module had the highest association with months (r=−0.63 and P=5e-04). The genes in the two modules participate in multiple pathways of retinoblastoma, and by combining the PPI network and subnetworks; 10 hub genes were identified in the two modules. The present study identified coexpression modules and hub genes associated with clinical traits of retinoblastoma, providing novel insight into retinoblastoma progression.

Craniofacial second primary tumors in patients with germline retinoblastoma previously treated with external beam radiotherapy: A retrospective institutional analysis

BACKGROUND

The long-term survival of germline retinoblastoma patients is decreased due to the risk of second primary tumors (SPTs) that occur years after the diagnosis of retinoblastoma. This risk is related to genetic predisposition and other factors, such as the treatment of retinoblastoma by external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

PROCEDURE

We studied the incidence, risk factors, and prognosis of specific craniofacial SPTs developed within the margins of radiation field in a cohort of 209 patients with germline retinoblastoma treated with EBRT at our institution between 1977 and 2010. Clinical characteristics, survival, incidence, and histology of craniofacial SPTs were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-three of the 209 patients developed 60 distinct craniofacial SPTs in irradiated field with a median time from EBRT of 16.9 years (4-35) and a median follow-up of 24.8 years (5.3-40). Osteosarcoma (33.3%) and undifferentiated sarcoma (23.3%) were the more prevalent histological entities. Benign tumors (16.7%) also occurred. The cumulative incidence of craniofacial SPTs reached 32.6% at 35 years after EBRT, and the median survival after diagnosis was five years. In our series, irradiation under 12 months of age, bilateral EBRT, or previous treatment of retinoblastoma with chemotherapy did not significantly increase the risk of craniofacial SPTs.

CONCLUSIONS

This work presents a strong argument to avoid EBRT in the management of retinoblastoma and emphasizes the high risk and poor prognosis of specific craniofacial SPTs. This study also points to the question of the need and benefits of special programs for early detection of craniofacial SPTs in survivors of irradiated germline retinoblastoma.

Survival and ocular preservation in a long-term cohort of Japanese patients with retinoblastoma

Background

Retinoblastoma is an ocular tumor in infants with cancer predisposition. Treatment of the rare tumor needs to be optimized for ocular preserved survival without second primary malignancy (SPM).

Methods

We studied the outcomes of all patients with retinoblastoma at a tertiary center in 1984–2016, when preservation method changed from radiotherapy (1984–2001) to systemic chemotherapy (2002–2016).

Results

One-hundred sixteen infants developed unilateral- (n = 77), bilateral- (n = 38), or trilateral-onset (n = 1) tumor. Ten (8.6%) had a positive family history, despite a few studies on RB1 gene. Contralateral disease occurred in one unilateral-onset case. One-hundred eight of 155 eyes (70%) were enucleated. Nine binocular survivors were from 5 bilateral- and 4 unilateral-onset cases. Two survivors received bilateral enucleation. Six deaths occurred; brain involvement (including 3 trilateral diseases) in 4 bilateral-onset, systemic invasion in a unilateral-onset, and SPM (osteosarcoma) in a bilateral-onset case(s). Two others survived SPM of osteosarcoma or lymphoma. The 10-year overall survival (OS: 98.5% vs. 91.3%, p = 0.068) and binocular survivors (13.2% vs. 5.2%, p = 0.154) between bilateral- and unilateral-onsets did not differ statistically. The 10-year OS and cancer (retinoblastoma/SPM)-free survival (CFS) rates of all patients were 94.9 and 88.5%, respectively. The proportion of preserved eyes did not differ between radiotherapy and chemotherapy eras. The CFS rate of bilateral-onset cases in systemic chemotherapy era was higher than that in radiotherapy era (p = 0.042). The CFS rates of bilateral-onset patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (upfront systemic therapy for preservation) was higher than those without it (p = 0.030).

Conclusions

Systemic chemotherapy and local therapy raised OS and binocular survival rates of bilateral-onset patients similarly to those of unilateral-onset patients. All but one death was associated with a probable germline defect of the RB1 gene. Neoadjuvant stratified chemotherapy may support the long-term binocular life with minimized risk of SPM.

Childhood eye cancer from a parental perspective: The lived experience of parents with children who have had retinoblastoma

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore the lived experience of parents with children who have had retinoblastoma.

METHODS

The study adopted a qualitative approach using the data collection method of written accounts. Eleven parents were recruited via snowball sampling from across the UK. Parents were asked to retrospectively produce a written account of their experiences. These narrative autobiographical accounts were analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Data analysis elicited three themes: waiting and misdiagnosis; emotional rollercoaster; and support needs. Parents described experiencing prolonged periods of waiting from referral to clinical investigations and the implementation of a treatment plan. Difficulties in obtaining an accurate diagnosis for their child elicited anxiety for parents. Emotions were described in terms of a rollercoaster with highs and lows and times of despair, anger, relief, and hope. Experiences of personal support varied and had lasting impacts on relationships. However, the support from other parents with a child with retinoblastoma was perceived to be instrumental in facilitating coping.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings show parental experiences were characterised by numerous difficulties and suggest a need for greater awareness of childhood eye cancer. This research highlights the importance of psychological and social support for parents of a child with retinoblastoma.

Next-Generation Sequencing of Retinoblastoma Identifies Pathogenic Alterations beyond RB1 Inactivation That Correlate with Aggressive Histopathologic Features

PURPOSE

To determine the usefulness of a comprehensive, targeted-capture next-generation sequencing (NGS) assay for the clinical management of children undergoing enucleation for retinoblastoma.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-two children with retinoblastoma.

METHODS

We performed targeted NGS using the UCSF500 Cancer Panel (University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA) on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissue along with constitutional DNA isolated from peripheral blood, buccal swab, or uninvolved optic nerve. Peripheral blood samples were also sent to a commercial laboratory for germline RB1 mutation testing.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Presence or absence of germline RB1 mutation or deletion, tumor genetic profile, and association of genetic alterations with clinicopathologic features.

RESULTS

Germline mutation or deletion of the RB1 gene was identified in all children with bilateral retinoblastoma (n = 12), and these NGS results were 100% concordant with commercial germline RB1 mutation analysis. In tumor tissue tested with NGS, biallelic inactivation of RB1 was identified in 28 tumors and focal MYCN amplification was identified in 4 tumors (2 with wild-type RB1 and 2 with biallelic RB1 inactivation). Additional likely pathogenic alterations beyond RB1 were identified in 13 tumors (41%), several of which have not been reported previously in retinoblastoma. These included focal amplifications of MDM4 and RAF1, as well as damaging mutations involving BCOR, ARID1A, MGA, FAT1, and ATRX. The presence of additional likely pathogenetic mutations beyond RB1 inactivation was associated with aggressive histopathologic features, including higher histologic grade and anaplasia, and also with both unilateral and sporadic disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Comprehensive NGS analysis reliably detects relevant mutations, amplifications, and chromosomal copy number changes in retinoblastoma. The presence of genetic alterations beyond RB1 inactivation correlates with aggressive histopathologic features.

Frequency of low-level and high-level mosaicism in sporadic retinoblastoma: genotype-phenotype relationships

Somatic mutational mosaicism is a common feature of monogenic genetic disorders, particularly in diseases such as retinoblastoma, with high rates of de novo mutations. The detection and quantification of mosaicism is particularly relevant in these diseases, since it has important implications for genetic counseling, patient management, and probably also on disease onset and progression. In order to assess the rate of somatic mosaicism (high- and low-level mosaicism) in sporadic retinoblastoma patients, we analyzed a cohort of 153 patients with sporadic retinoblastoma using ultra deep next-generation sequencing. High-level mosaicism was detected in 14 out of 100 (14%) bilateral patients and in 11 out of 29 (38%) unilateral patients in whom conventional Sanger sequencing identified a pathogenic mutation in blood DNA. In addition, low-level mosaicism was detected in 3 out of 16 (19%) unilateral patients in whom conventional screening was negative in blood DNA. Our results also reveal that mosaicism was associated to delayed retinoblastoma onset particularly in unilateral patients. Finally we compared the level of mosaicism in different tissues to identify the best DNA source to identify mosaicism in retinoblastoma patients. In light of these results we recommended analyzing the mosaic status in all retinoblastoma patients using accurate techniques such as next-generation sequencing, even in those cases in which conventional Sanger sequencing identified a pathogenic mutation in blood DNA. Our results suggest that a significant proportion of those cases are truly mosaics that could have been overlooked. This information should be taking into consideration in the management and genetic counseling of retinoblastoma patients and families.

A Review on Curability of Cancers: More Efforts for Novel Therapeutic Options Are Needed

Cancer remains a major cause of death globally. Given its relapsing and fatal features, curing cancer seems to be something hardly possible for the majority of patients. In view of the development in cancer therapies, this article summarizes currently available cancer therapeutics and cure potential by cancer type and stage at diagnosis, based on literature and database reviews. Currently common cancer therapeutics include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, treatment with curative intent by these methods are mainly eligible for patients with localized disease or treatment-sensitive cancers and therefore their contributions to cancer curability are relatively limited. The prognosis for cancer patients varies among different cancer types with a five-year relative survival rate (RSR) of more than 80% in thyroid cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, and Hodgkin's lymphoma. The most dismal prognosis is observed in patients with small-cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, oesophagal cancer, acute myeloid leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, and gastric cancer with a five-year RSR ranging between 7% and 28%. The current review is intended to provide a general view about how much we have achieved in curing cancer as regards to different therapies and cancer types. Finally, we propose a small molecule dual-targeting broad-spectrum anticancer strategy called OncoCiDia, in combination with emerging highly sensitive liquid biopsy, with theoretical curative potential for the management of solid malignancies, especially at the micro-cancer stage.

Bone and Soft-Tissue Sarcoma Risk in Long-Term Survivors of Hereditary Retinoblastoma Treated With Radiation

PURPOSE

Survivors of hereditary retinoblastoma have excellent survival but substantially increased risks of subsequent bone and soft-tissue sarcomas, particularly after radiotherapy. Comprehensive investigation of sarcoma risk patterns would inform clinical surveillance for survivors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a cohort of 952 irradiated survivors of hereditary retinoblastoma who were originally diagnosed during 1914 to 2006, we quantified sarcoma risk with standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and cumulative incidence analyses. We conducted analyses separately for bone and soft-tissue sarcomas occurring in the head and neck (in/near the radiotherapy field) versus body and extremities (out of field).

RESULTS

Of 105 bone and 124 soft-tissue sarcomas, more than one half occurred in the head and neck (bone, 53.3%; soft tissue, 51.6%), one quarter in the body and extremities (bone, 29.5%; soft tissue, 25.0%), and approximately one fifth in unknown/unspecified locations (bone, 17.1%; soft tissue, 23.4%). We noted substantially higher risks compared with the general population for head and neck versus body and extremity tumors for both bone (SIR, 2,213; 95% CI, 1,671 to 2,873 v SIR, 169; 95% CI, 115 to 239) and soft-tissue sarcomas (SIR, 542; 95% CI, 418 to 692 v SIR, 45.7; 95% CI, 31.1 to 64.9). Head and neck bone and soft-tissue sarcomas were diagnosed beginning in early childhood and continued well into adulthood, reaching a 60-year cumulative incidence of 6.8% (95% CI, 5.0% to 8.7%) and 9.3% (95% CI, 7.0% to 11.7%), respectively. In contrast, body and extremity bone sarcoma incidence flattened after adolescence (3.5%; 95% CI, 2.3% to 4.8%), whereas body and extremity soft-tissue sarcoma incidence was rare until age 30, when incidence rose steeply (60-year cumulative incidence, 6.6%; 95% CI, 4.1% to 9.2%), particularly for females (9.4%; 95% CI, 5.1% to 13.8%).

CONCLUSION

Strikingly elevated bone and soft-tissue sarcoma risks differ by age, location, and sex, highlighting important contributions of both radiotherapy and genetic susceptibility. These data provide guidance for the development of a risk-based screening protocol that focuses on the highest sarcoma risks by age, location, and sex.

Imaging of pediatric cutaneous melanoma

Melanoma accounts for 7% of all cancers in adolescents ages 15-19 years but is an unexpected malignancy in younger children. The prevalence of malignant melanoma is very rare in children ages 1-4 years, but certain non-modifiable risk factors such as xeroderma pigmentosum, congenital melanocytic nevus syndrome and other inherited traits increase the risk for its development in these young children. Recent genomic studies have identified characteristics of pediatric melanoma that differ from conventional melanoma seen in adults. In this review the authors inform on the types of melanoma seen in children and adolescents, discuss similarities and differences in melanoma between children and adults, and discuss the role of imaging in the care of these children.

Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma: the dosimetric impact

PURPOSE

Purposes are (1) to measure main radiation parameters and (2) to propose a method to estimate the absorbed doses of internal organs starting from DAP values. Measuring the exposition of internal organs by repeated irradiations on an anthropomorphic phantom with the same settings used in vivo, we could establish correlations between (1) DAP and the dose recorded by a dosimeter placed along the X-ray beam entrance pathway; (2) the dose recorded by the same dosimeter and the absorbed dose in internal organs.

METHODS

Forty-four consecutive patients (16 males, 28 females) (mean age 35.4 months) treated at our institution with IAC (216 procedures: 196 via the ICA and 20 into branches of the ECA) were included in this prospective study. IAC was divided into 5 phases. Fluoroscopic time, DAP, and ESD were measured.

RESULTS

The mean DAP was 595 ± 445 cGy cm² and the mean fluoroscopic time was 540 ± 403 s. ESD was on average 9.59 mGy (range 0.8-165 mGy). The absorbed dose was lower than 12.1 mGy in the left retina (the more exposed organ) in 75% of single treatments and lower than 25 mGy in 95% of treatments. In the cases of 3 and 6 sessions, the left retina of 75% of patients absorbed respectively less than 36.3 and 72.7 mGy, whereas the left retina of 95% of patients received less than 75.2 and 150.4 mGy. Other organs were less exposed.

CONCLUSION

This paper describes a method of absorbed dose estimation providing ranges used clinically in a single practice and the basis for further prospective studies.

Preservation of the Epiphysis and Growth Plate in the Surgical Management of Femoral Osteosarcoma in a Skeletally Immature Patient by Intercalary Resection and Biological Reconstruction: A Case Report

Osteosarcoma arises most frequently in the metaphysis around the knee and its management by limb salvage surgery in skeletally immature pediatric patients is extremely challenging. Common reconstructive methods such as endoprosthetic or biological reconstruction are not fully capable of dealing with durability-related and growth-related problems and their functional outcomes are not as good as those seen in adult cases. A definitive limb salvaging procedure in children that outperforms amputation or rotationplasty has not yet been established. Herein, we report a case of stage IV osteosarcoma in the femur of a 7-year-old boy that was safely managed with intercalary resection preserving the distal femoral growth plate and epiphysis, followed by biological reconstruction using a frozen tumor-devitalized autograft. Good response to preoperative chemotherapy and the diaphyseal location of the tumor enabled us to perform a tumor resection that spared the growth plate and preserved the native knee joint structure. Plate fixation over the growth plate was terminated by removing the locking screws in the epiphysis after 44 months, which restored growth capacity to some extent. At 50 months postoperatively, no recurrence or progression of the disease was observed. The patient uses an extension shoe and reports having little discomfort in his daily life despite having a restricted range of motion and limb length discrepancy. In conclusion, limb salvage with biological reconstruction in skeletally immature patients can provide an acceptable functional outcome, including minimized limb length discrepancy, if critical damage to the growth plate and articular components can be avoided.

Risk of Second Primary Bone and Soft-Tissue Sarcomas Among Young Adulthood Cancer Survivors

Excess sarcoma risks after childhood cancer are well established, but risks among young adulthood cancer survivors are poorly understood. Using US population-based cancer registry data, we compared bone and soft-tissue sarcoma risk vs the general population among 186 351 individuals who were diagnosed with nonsarcoma first primary malignancies at ages 20-39 years from 1975 to 2014 (follow-up through 2015) and survived at least 1 year. Bone sarcomas were rare (n = 50), but risk was statistically significantly elevated overall (2.9-fold) and greater than fivefold after Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and central nervous system tumors. Soft-tissue sarcomas were more common (n = 284) and risks were statistically significantly elevated approximately twofold overall and after melanoma and carcinomas of the breast, thyroid, and testis, and greater than fourfold after Hodgkin lymphoma and central nervous system tumors. Risks varied markedly by subtype, with the highest risks (greater than fourfold) for osteosarcoma and the soft-tissue subtypes of rhabdomyosarcoma and blood vessel and nerve sheath sarcomas. These data demonstrate elevated risk for sarcoma after a range of young adulthood cancers.

An update in the management of pediatric sarcoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Nonrhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (NRSTS) is a rare subgroup of malignancy in childhood that is composed of a variety of soft tissue and bony tumors. Prognosis for resectable localized disease is usually good and improved with systemic treatment. However, survival from locally advanced and metastatic disease remains poor. There have been numerous preclinical and clinical studies to define histopathology, biology, and genetic alteration of sarcomas. The purpose of this review is to clarify the progress in the management of NRSTS.

RECENT FINDINGS

Genomic analysis, including the use of next-generation sequencing, has revealed fusion transcripts or specific genetic alterations which provide diagnostic biomarkers and potential targets for novel therapies.

SUMMARY

Most cases are sporadic, but some are associated with genetic predispositions. Most present as a painless mass and diagnosis is frequently delayed because of a low index of suspicion. There is a wide array of histopathological subtypes. Investigations usually involve core, incisional or excisional biopsy for tissue diagnosis, and cross-sectional and nuclear imaging for staging. Management of pediatric sarcoma is largely dependent on the patient's histopathological diagnosis, age, disease stage, and co-morbidities but usually involves a combination of systemic and local therapies. Preclinical studies and phase I/II trials of newer targeted therapies are ongoing.