Update on the management of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma

Effect of postoperative normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy on the prognosis of MPM patients receiving CRS+HIPEC: A single-center case-control study

BACKGROUND

The comprehensive treatment strategy, mainly cytoreductive surgery (CRS) plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), combined with systemic and intraperitoneal chemotherapy, is the standard treatment for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM), which can significantly prolong the survival of patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical significance of postoperative normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (NIPEC) in MPM patients.

METHODS

Data of 152 MPM patients who underwent CRS + HIPEC and postoperative intravenous chemotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into the Non-NIPEC group and the NIPEC group according to whether they received NIPEC after surgery. The baseline characteristics of the two groups were compared, and the survival outcome was analyzed in subgroups according to completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score. Multivariate survival analysis was used to determine the independent prognostic factors.

RESULTS

In CC 0-1 and CC 2-3 subgroups, there was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between Non-NIPEC and NIPEC groups. Survival analysis showed that for CC 0-1 patients, there was no significant difference in overall survival (OS) between Non-NIPEC and NIPEC groups (P = 0.503). However, for CC 2-3 patients, the median OS of the NIPEC group was significantly longer than that of the Non-NIPEC group (24.5 vs. 10.3 months, P = 0.005). Pathological type, preoperative thrombosis and postoperative NIPEC (HR = 0.423, 95%CI: 0.228-0.786, P = 0.006) were independent prognostic factors for CC 2-3 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

For MPM patients receiving CRS + HIPEC, postoperative intraperitoneal combined with intravenous chemotherapy may improve the survival of CC 2-3 patients, but CC 0-1 patients do not seem to derive the same benefit.

Analysis of Treatment Strategies and Outcomes in Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Insights From a Multi-Center Study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the demographic," clinicopathologic, and prognostic characteristics of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM), as well as the treatment options for the rare and heterogeneous MPeM population.

METHODS

A retrospective multi-center observational cohort study was conducted to evaluate patients with MPeM. Due to the heterogeneity of the study population, the study divided them into two main groups in terms of treatments, follow-up periods, and prognostic features. The first group comprised the patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), and the second group included the patients with metastatic disease for whom curative intent surgery was not possible. The patients' diagnostic procedures and treatments were identified from medical records. Patients older than 18 years old were included in the study regardless of asbestos exposure. Well-differentiated papillary and multicystic mesothelioma histologic types were not included in the study.

RESULTS

The study evaluated 118 patients from five centers. Survival times, prognosis, and treatment responses were analyzed in both groups. The study showed that CRS-HIPEC was associated with longer overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Perioperative therapy was evaluated in subgroup analyses of this population and shown to provide survival benefits. The patients treated with chemotherapy (metastatic and medically inoperable patients and those for whom complete cytoreduction was not achievable) had a poorer prognosis than the surgery group. The study showed that life expectancy decreased significantly for the patients not suitable to undergo surgery for any reason.

CONCLUSIONS

According to data from experienced centers, CRS-HIPEC is a treatment option recognized as effective, cost-effective, and safe, with better OS and PFS , as well as low morbidity and mortality rates similar to those in the literature. In addition, the platinum-pemetrexed combination continues to be an effective and acceptable treatment option for metastatic patients, those who are medically inoperable, and those for whom complete or near-complete cytoreduction is not achievable.

High mobility group box 1 mediates inflammatory responses in malignant peritoneal mesothelioma

BACKGROUND

Serum high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) serves as a diagnostic biomarker for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) patients, yet its diagnostic significance within MPM tumor tissues remains uncertain. This study aims to elucidate the roles of HMGB1 in MPM.

METHODS

HMGB1 expression analysis was conducted in both tumor and adjacent non-cancerous tissues collected from MPM patients. The two-year follow-up of MPM patients commenced from the diagnosis date. Inflammatory cytokine analysis was performed on these tissues, and Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was applied to examine variable relationships. In vitro assays included constructing an HMGB1 knockdown cell line, assessing cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammatory cytokine levels to delineate HMGB1's roles in MPM.

RESULTS

HMGB1 overexpression was observed in MPM tumor tissues, particularly in stages III-IV. Diagnostic implications of HMGB1 for MPM were evident, augmenting its diagnostic value. HMGB1 overexpression correlated with diminished survival rates. Positive correlations existed between inflammatory cytokines and HMGB1 in MPM tumor tissues and cell lines. Suppression of HMGB1 regulated cell growth and apoptosis in MPM cell lines.

CONCLUSION

HMGB1 exhibits diagnostic potential for MPM and modulates inflammatory responses within the disease context.

Peritoneal metastases from rare ovarian cancer treated with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC)

Objectives

There are limited treatment options and no consensus on the management of advanced rare ovarian malignancies. Rare ovarian malignancies can present with peritoneal metastases (PM), featuring a similar presentation to more common ovarian subtypes. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is an effective treatment for PM of non-gynecologic origin and, recently, epithelial ovarian cancer. We evaluated the feasibility of CRS/HIPEC in the management of PM from rare ovarian malignancies and report postoperative outcomes on these patients.

Methods

A retrospective review of a single center, prospective database (1994-2021) was performed to identify patients with rare ovarian malignancies treated with CRS/HIPEC. Clavien-Dindo 90-day morbidity/mortality and Kaplan-Meier overall (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were analyzed.

Results

Of 44 patients identified, 28 underwent CRS/HIPEC. Six were aborted due to extensive disease. Histologic subtypes included: clear cell (5/28, 17.9 %), endometrioid (5/28, 17.9 %), granulosa cell (3/28, 10.7 %), low-grade serous (6/28, 21.4 %), mesonephric (1/28, 3.6 %), mucinous (6/28, 21.4 %), and small cell (2/28, 7.1 %) carcinomas. Eight (28.6 %) patients had primary and 20 (71.4 %) had recurrent disease. Median peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 21 (IQR: 6-29). Complete cytoreduction (<2.5 mm residual disease) was achieved in 27/28 (96.4 %). Grade III/IV complications occurred in 9/28 (32.1 %) with one (3.6 %) mortality. After a median follow-up of 65.8 months, 20 patients were alive. Five-year OS and PFS were 68.5 and 52.6 %, respectively.

Conclusions

In patients with PM from rare ovarian malignancies, CRS/HIPEC is feasible and has an acceptable safety profile. Longer follow-up and multicenter trials are needed.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Effects of postoperative fluids beyond the first 24 h

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

There are no guidelines for intravenous fluid (IVF) administration after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC). This study assessed rates of post-CRS/HIPEC morbidity according to perioperative IVF administration.

METHODS

All patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC March 2007 to June 2018 were reviewed, recording clinicopathologic, operative, and postoperative variables. Patients were divided by peritoneal cancer index (PCI), comparing IVF volumes and types administered intraoperatively and during the first 72 h postoperatively. Optimal IVF rate cutoffs calculated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curves and Youden's index determined associations with complications.

RESULTS

Overall, 185 patients underwent CRS/HIPEC, and 81 (51%) had low PCI (<10) and 77 (49%) had high PCI (≥10). In low-PCI patients, high IVF rates on postoperative days (POD) #0-2 were associated with higher overall complications: POD#0 (46% vs. 89%, p = 0.001), POD#1 (40% vs. 86%, p < 0.05), and POD#2 (42% vs. 72%, p < 0.05). High IVF rates were associated with respiratory distress (7% vs. 26%, p = 0.02) on POD#0, ileus (14% vs. 47%, p = 0.007) and intensive care unit stay (11% vs. 33%, p = 0.022) on POD#1, and ICU stay (8% vs. 33%, p = 0.003) on POD#2.

CONCLUSIONS

For low PCI patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC, higher IVF rates were associated with postoperative complications. Post-CRS/HIPEC, IVF rates should be limited to prevent morbidity.

Oral Anlotinib Maintenance Therapy for an Advanced Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosed by Laparoscopy After Initial Misdiagnosis to Obtain Longer Progression-Free Survival: Case Report and Literature Review

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) is a rare and highly invasive malignant tumor with a lack of specificity in clinical manifestations, which can easily lead to misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis. Due to the difficulty of early diagnosis, most patients are already in the advanced stage when diagnosed, and the prognosis is poor. At present, there is no standard treatment strategy, and the existing treatment methods are not effective, the duration of remission is short, which cannot meet the clinical needs. Here we describe a patient with advanced MPeM, initially misdiagnosed as ovarian cancer, who responded to treatment with bevacizumab in combination with albumin-bound paclitaxel and cisplatin. In preparation for cytoreductive surgery (CRS), MPeM was confirmed by laparoscopic peritoneal nodule biopsy combined with histological and immunohistochemical results. Subsequently, due to intolerable neurotoxicity after chemotherapy, she received oral anlotinib therapy on April 25, 2022, and remained stable disease (SD) with the medication, having achieved more than 14 months of progression-free survival (PFS) as of the date of our manuscript submission. The patient's total treatment time was over 19 months. These treatments delayed tumor progression, reduced drug side effects, maintained a good quality of life, and further extended overall survival (OS). Our experience is that on the one hand, it is necessary to increase the clinician's understanding of the disease, and make full use of tissue samples and immunohistochemical staining to reduce the occurrence of misdiagnosis. On the other hand, based on preliminary evidence, we found that oral anlotinib offers a viable maintenance treatment strategy for patients with advanced mesothelioma, which needs to be further explored in future studies.

Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: An In-Depth and Up-to-Date Review of Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Management and Future Directions

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is an extremely rare malignancy usually confined to the abdominal cavity. With an aggressive natural history, morbidity and mortality are consequences of progressive locoregional effects within the peritoneal cavity. The first reported case was in the early 20th century, however, due to the rare nature of the disease and a large gap in understanding of the clinicopathological effects, the next reported MPM cases were only published half a decade later. Since then, there has been exponential growth in our understanding of the disease, however, there are no prospective data and a paucity of literature regarding management. Traditionally, patients were treated with systemic therapy and the outcomes were very poor, with a median survival of less than one year. However, with the advent of cytoreductive surgery and locoregional chemotherapy, there have been significant improvements in survival. Even more recently, with an improved understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of MPM, there have been reports of improved outcomes with novel therapies. Given the disastrous natural history of MPM, the limited data, and the lack of universal treatment guidelines, an in-depth review of the past, present, and future of MPM is critical to improve treatment regimens and, subsequently, patient outcomes.

National Practice Patterns in Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Updates in Management and Survival

BACKGROUND

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare malignancy with a historically poor prognosis. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has emerged as an effective therapy for patients with peritoneal malignancies. A contemporary analysis of trends in management of and survival from MPM is warranted.

METHODS

Patients with MPM were identified from the National Cancer Database (2004-2018). Patients were categorized by treatment (CRS-HIPEC, CRS-chemotherapy, CRS only, chemotherapy only, no treatment), and joinpoint regression was employed to compute the annual percent change (APC) in treatment over time. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze factors associated with survival.

RESULTS

Of 2683 patients with MPM, 19.1% underwent CRS-HIPEC, and 21.1% received no treatment. Joinpoint regression revealed a statistically significant increase in the proportion of patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC over time (APC 3.21, p = 0.01), and a concurrent decrease in the proportion of patients who underwent no treatment (APC - 2.21, p = 0.02). Median overall survival was 19.5 months. Factors independently associated with survival included CRS-HIPEC, CRS, histology, sex, age, race, Charlson Comorbidity Index, insurance, and hospital type. Although there was a strong association between year of diagnosis and survival on univariate analysis (2016-2018 HR 0.67, p < 0.001), this association was attenuated after adjustment for treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

CRS-HIPEC is increasingly employed as a treatment for MPM. In parallel, there has been a decrease in patients receiving no treatment with an increase in overall survival. These findings suggest that patients with MPM may be receiving more appropriate therapy; however, a substantial proportion of patients may remain undertreated.

Pleurectomy and decortication are associated with better survival for bicavitary cytoreductive surgery for mesothelioma compared with extrapleural pneumonectomy

OBJECTIVES

Mesothelioma is a nearly uniformly fatal tumor. Multimodality therapy including cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapy is associated with long-term survival in some patients. Cytoreductive surgery for thoracic disease includes a lung-sparing operation called an "extended pleurectomy/decortication" or a lung-sacrificing surgery called an "extrapleural pneumonectomy." The benefit of cytoreductive surgery for bicavitary disease (chest and abdomen) is poorly understood. Our objective was to evaluate the long-term survivals for patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for bicavitary disease and to determine whether any prognostic factors were associated with outcome.

METHODS

We reviewed our Institutional Review Board-approved, institutional, International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer Mesothelioma Staging Project database. Inclusion criteria were all patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery for bicavitary disease. Overall survival was calculated by Kaplan-Meier methodology. All International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer database elements were evaluated by univariable analysis.

RESULTS

From February 2014 to August 2021, 440 patients with mesothelioma were evaluated. Fourteen patients (3%) underwent cytoreductive surgery of both chest and abdomen as a planned 2-stage operation. Most patients (13/14; 93%) underwent chest surgery before abdomen surgery. For the entire cohort, the median overall survival was 33.6 months with a 5-year survival of 20%. Extended pleurectomy/decortication was associated with a better outcome compared with extrapleural pneumonectomy, with median overall survivals of 58.2 versus 13.5 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

For a highly selected group of patients with bicavitary mesothelioma, long-term survival can be achieved with an aggressive, staged surgical approach. The patients who undergo extended pleurectomy/decortication with preservation of the lung appear to have more favorable outcomes compared with patients undergoing extrapleural pneumonectomy.

Immunotherapy in malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (Review)

Over the last decade, there has been a movement in cancer treatment away from cytotoxic therapies toward strategies that enhance the immune system against cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been incorporated into the treatment regimens for patients with various solid tumors. Mesothelioma trials revealed encouraging efficacy; however, patients with peritoneal mesothelioma are usually excluded, slowing the progress of improving the treatment of this aggressive cancer and compelling oncologist to rely on retrospective studies despite their flaws and limitations. Currently, there is no consensus on the role of ICIs in the treatment of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM). The present review discusses data from clinical studies that examined immunotherapy in MPeM and evaluates what is known about the relevance of the tumor microenvironment and clinically validated biomarkers for ICIs efficacy. Furthermore, a proposed strategy for utilizing immunotherapy in treating MPeM is discussed.

A case of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma with a Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome-like imaging finding

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) is a rare disease with a poor prognosis that develops in the mesothelial cells of the peritoneum. We encountered a 48-year-old man with no prior asbestos exposure who visited our hospital with abdominal pain. Laboratory findings showed elevated C-reactive protein of 15.5 mg/dL. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) detected a Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome-like contrast effect on the liver surface and thickening of the peritoneum. Blood culture, Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific IFN-γ release assay, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA testing, and antinuclear antibody were all negative. CA125 was high at 124.8 U/mL. The laparoscopy for diagnostic purposes revealed adhesions between the liver surface and peritoneum in addition to numerous small and large white nodules on the peritoneum. Biopsy of the nodules confirmed the diagnosis of epithelial-type MPeM. Treatment was initiated with combined cisplatin and pemetrexed, and CT 6 months later showed a reduced contrast effect on the liver surface and improved peritoneal thickening. A Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome-like contrast effect on the liver surface on contrast-enhanced CT may help identify MPeM.

BAP1 Tumor Predisposition Syndrome Presenting as a Recurrent Ovarian Sex Cord-Stromal Tumor

The BRCA1-associated protein 1 ( BAP1 ) gene encodes a tumor suppressor that functions as a ubiquitin hydrolase involved in DNA damage repair. BAP1 germline mutations are associated with increased risk of multiple solid malignancies, including mesothelioma, uveal melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and high-grade rhabdoid meningiomas. Here, we describe the case of a 52-yr-old woman who experienced multiple abdominal recurrences of an ovarian sex cord-stromal tumor that was originally diagnosed at age 25 and who was found to have a germline mutation in BAP1 and a family history consistent with BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome. Recurrence of the sex cord-stromal tumor demonstrated loss of BAP1 expression by immunohistochemistry. Although ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors have been described in mouse models of BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome, this relationship has not been previously described in humans and warrants further investigation. The case presentation, tumor morphology, and immunohistochemical findings have overlapping characteristics with peritoneal mesotheliomas, and this case represents a potential pitfall for surgical pathologists.

Functional Outcomes Following Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Pre-operative physical status and its association with post-operative surgical outcomes is poorly understood in patients with peritoneal malignancy who undergo cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The aims of this study were to determine the pre-operative physical function in patients having CRS-HIPEC and investigate the association between physical function and post-operative outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC between 2017 and 2021 were recruited at a single quaternary referral hospital in Sydney, Australia. The primary physical function measures were the 6-min walk test (6MWT) and the five-times sit to stand test (5STS). Data were collected pre-operatively and at post-operative day 10, and were analysed according to pre-operative patient characteristics and post-operative outcomes such as length of hospital stay (LOS) and complications.

RESULTS

The cohort of patients that participated in functional assessments consisted of 234 patients, with a median age of 56 years. Patients having CRS-HIPEC performed worse on the 6MWT pre-operatively compared with the general Australian population (p < 0.001). Post-operatively, these patients experienced a further deterioration in 6MWT and 5STS performance and the degree of the post-operative decline in function was associated with post-operative morbidity. A higher level of pre-operative physical function was associated with shorter LOS and minor post-operative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who have undergone CRS-HIPEC were functionally impaired pre-operatively compared with the general population and experience a further deterioration of physical function post-operatively. A higher level of pre-operative physical function is associated with minor post-operative morbidity, which is highly relevant for pre-operative optimisation of patients with cancer.

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma with massive ascites as the first symptom: A case report

BACKGROUND

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is an extremely rare tumor with nonspecific clinical manifestations, which is extremely difficult to diagnose. Herein, we reported a case of MPM in the abdominal cavity with massive short-term ascites as the first symptom.

CASE SUMMARY

A 65-year-old woman presented to the hospital with abdominal pain, distention, and shortness of breath that persisted for 15 d. The serum CA-125 level was 1075 U/mL. The abdominal computed tomography showed massive ascites and no obvious tumor lesions. The pathological examination of the ascitic fluid showed numerous heterotypic cells with some papillary structures. The immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization showed the deletion of CDX2 (-), WT-1 (-), Ki-67 (about 10% +), CEA (-), Glut-1 (+++), desmin (-), PD-L1 (-), and CDKN2A (P16). The final diagnosis was MPM. The patient refused tumor cytoreductive surgery and received two cycles of cisplatin plus pemetrexed bidirectional chemotherapy. In the second cycle, she received an additional cycle of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy due to massive recalcitrant ascites. She died of disease progression 2 mo after diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

In case of massive unexplained ascites, the possibility of MPM should not be excluded to avoid misdiagnosis and delay in treatment.

Outcomes and prognostic factors of cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy in high-volume peritoneal carcinomatosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The management of patients with extensive appendiceal mucinous neoplasms and mesothelioma is controversial. Our aims were to analyze overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and independent prognostic factors associated with high peritoneal cancer index (PCI) status in patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC).

METHODS

A prospectively-maintained database for patients with appendiceal neoplasms and mesothelioma undergoing CRS/PIC from year 1996 to 2018 was retrospectively analyzed. Patients who achieved complete cytoreduction were stratified into limited (PCI < 30) and extensive (PCI ≥ 30) disease groups.

RESULTS

260 female and 235 male patients were identified. The 5-year survival for low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMN) was significantly higher in the low PCI group (96.2% vs. 63.5%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in the OS across both groups in high-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (HAMN) (63 vs. 69 months; p = 0.942) and mesothelioma (72 vs. 42 months; p = 0.058). Overall mortality was 2%. Grade III/IV complications were significantly higher in extensive disease (68% vs. 36.6%, p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, use of EPIC and blood transfusion (>8 units) were independent positive and negative prognostic factors, respectively, associated with OS. Meanwhile, use of EPIC conferred benefit in DFS while increased blood transfusion (>8 units) and elevated preoperative CA125 were predictive of a poor DFS.

CONCLUSION

Long-term survivals following CRS/PIC are achievable with acceptable mortality and higher morbidity rates in extensive appendiceal mucinous neoplasms and mesothelioma. High PCI status does not preclude treatment with CRS/PIC.

Substance GP-2250 as a New Therapeutic Agent for Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma—A 3-D In Vitro Study

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare tumor entity. Although cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy have increased overall survival, its prognosis remains poor. Established chemotherapeutics include mitomycin C (MMC) and cisplatin (CP), both characterized by severe side effects. GP-2250 is a novel antineoplastic agent, currently under clinical investigation. This in vitro study aims to investigate effects of GP-2250 including combinations with CP and MMC on malignant mesothelioma. JL-1 and MSTO-211H mesothelioma cell lines were treated with increasing doses of GP-2250, CP, MMC and combination therapies of GP-2250 + CP/MMC. Microscopic effects were documented, and a flow-cytometric apoptosis/necrosis assay was performed. Synergistic and antagonistic effects were analyzed by computing the combination index by Chou-Talalay. GP-2250 showed an antiadhesive effect on JL-1 and MSTO-211H spheroids. It had a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on both monolayer and spheroid cultured cells, inducing apoptosis and necrosis. Combination treatments of GP-2250 with MMC and CP led to significant reductions of the effective doses of CP/MMC. Synergistic and additive effects were observed. GP-2250 showed promising antineoplastic effects on malignant mesothelioma cells in vitro especially in combination with CP/MMC. This forms the basis for further in vivo and clinical investigations in order to broaden treatment options.

Intraperitoneal paclitaxel for patients with primary malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: a phase I/II dose escalation and safety study-INTERACT MESO

INTRODUCTION

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, aggressive tumour arising primarily from the peritoneum. The only potentially curative treatment is cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). However, the majority of patients are not eligible to undergo this treatment. The benefit of systemic treatment for these patients is limited at the cost of considerable morbidity. Hence, there is a need for appropriate palliative treatment options for patients with MPM. As MPM rarely disseminates outside the abdominal cavity, these patients might benefit from local treatment. A higher, more effective dose of chemotherapy can directly be delivered at the site of the disease. Systemic uptake will be limited, likely resulting in less toxicity. The aim of the INTERACT MESO trial is to determine the maximum tolerable dose of intraperitoneal paclitaxel monotherapy in patients with MPM. Secondary endpoints are to assess safety and toxicity, feasibility and the pharmacokinetic profile of this treatment.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The INTERACT MESO trial is a prospective, open-label, single-centre, phase I study with a classic three-plus-three dose escalation design. The study population consists of adult patients with primary MPM, without extra-abdominal disease, who are not eligible to undergo CRS-HIPEC. According to standard of care work-up for CRS-HIPEC, patients will undergo diagnostic laparoscopy to determine the feasibility of CRS-HIPEC. In case CRS-HIPEC is not considered feasible, a peritoneal port-a-cath (PAC) system will be placed. Through this PAC, 8-16 weekly cycles of intraperitoneal chemotherapy will be administered.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects (CCMO, The Hague, The Netherlands) and the Medical Research Ethics Committee (METC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands) have granted permission to carry out this study protocol. The results of this trial will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NL9718. EudraCT: 2021-003637-11.

The role of imaging in diagnosis and management of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Imaging of the peritoneum and related pathology is a challenge. Among peritoneal diseases, malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) is an uncommon tumor with poor prognosis. To date, there are no specific guidelines or imaging protocols dedicated for the peritoneum and MPeM. The objective of this study was to analyze the literature describing imaging modalities used for MPeM to determine their relative clinical efficacy and review commonly reported imaging features of MPeM to promote standardized reporting.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of original research articles discussing imaging modalities in MPeM from 1999 to 2020. Effectiveness measures and common findings were compared across imaging modalities.

RESULTS

Among 582 studies analyzed, the most-used imaging modality was CT (54.3%). In the differentiation of MPeM from peritoneal carcinomatosis, one study found CT had a diagnostic sensitivity of 53%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 68%. Two studies found fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) had sensitivity of 86-92%, specificity of 83-89%, and accuracy of 87-89%. Another study found magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the best predictor of the peritoneal carcinomatosis index. Characteristics shown to best differentiate MPeM from other diseases included ascites, peritoneal thickening, mesenteric thickening, pleural plaques, maximum tumor dimension, and number of masses.

CONCLUSION

Most published MPeM imaging studies utilized CT. PET/CT or MRI appear promising, and future studies should compare effectiveness of these modalities. MPeM imaging reports should highlight ascites, number of and maximum tumor dimension, peritoneal/mesenteric thickening, and associated pleural plaques, allowing for better aggregation of MPeM imaging data across studies.

Challenging Diagnostic Process for a Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma Patient With Ascites and Pleural Effusion: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a sporadic and fatal disease of the peritoneal lining. Its diagnosis has been known to be challenging, time-consuming, and money-consuming. In this paper, we report an MPM case of a 58-year-old man with severe abdominal distension. After he had received all kinds of auxiliary examination, including computed tomography scans of the chest and whole abdomen, examinations of peripheral and pleural fluid, positron emission tomography, and twice fine-needle peritoneal biopsies, his disease still could not be confirmed. Eventually, the patient was diagnosed with MPM through laparoscopic biopsy and IHC. From this case, we concluded that clinicians can gradually discover and diagnose the disease through 1) high platelet and CA125 levels and CT imaging results, 2) cytologic examinations of ascites and pleural fluid, 3) peritoneal biopsies (fine-needle biopsy, laparoscopy biopsy), and 4) histopathological examinations and immunohistochemistry findings. The diagnostic process involving this patient can be an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of various auxiliary examination methods in MPM diagnosis.

Incidence, treatment and survival of malignant pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma: a population-based study

INTRODUCTION

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive cancer that primarily arises from the pleura (MPM) or peritoneum (MPeM), mostly due to asbestos exposure. This study reviewed the Dutch population-based incidence, treatment and survival since the national ban on asbestos in 1993.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with MPM or MPeM diagnosed from 1993 to 2018 were selected from the Dutch cancer registry. Annual percentage change (APC) was calculated for (age-specific and sex-specific) revised European standardised incidence rates (RESR). Treatment pattern and Kaplan-Meier overall survival analyses were performed.

RESULTS

In total, 12 168 patients were included in the study. For male patients younger than 80 years, the MM incidence significantly decreased in the last decade (APC ranging between -9.4% and -1.8%, p<0.01). Among both male and female patients aged over 80 years, the incidence significantly increased during the entire study period (APC 3.3% and 4.6%, respectively, p<0.01). From 2003 onwards, the use of systemic chemotherapy increased especially for MPM (from 9.3% to 39.4%). Overall, 62.2% of patients received no antitumour treatment. The most common reasons for not undergoing antitumour treatment were patient preference (42%) and performance status (25.6%). The median overall survival improved from 7.3 (1993-2003) to 8.9 (2004-2011) and 9.3 months from 2012 to 2018 (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The peak of MM incidence was reached around 2010 in the Netherlands, and currently the incidence is declining in most age groups. The use of systemic chemotherapy increased from 2003, which likely resulted in improved overall survival over time. The majority of patients do not receive treatment though and prognosis is still poor.

Aurora Kinase A as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Marker of Malignant Mesothelioma

Background

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a highly aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis. Despite the use of several well-known markers, the diagnosis of MM is still challenging in some cases. we applied bioinformatics to identify key genes and screen for diagnostic and prognostic markers of MM.

Methods

The expression profiles of GSE2549 and GSE112154 microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database contained 87 cases of MM tissue and 8 cases of normal mesothelial tissue in total. The GEO2R tool was used to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed using DAVID Bioinformatics Resources. The DEGs protein-protein interaction networks were constructed from the STRING database. Cytoscape was used to identify significant modules and hub genes. The GEPIA database was used to explore relationships between hub genes and prognosis of MM. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze protein expression in tissue microarrays with 47 Chinese MM tissues. Statistical analyses diagnostic and prognostic values.

Results

346 DEGs were identified: 111 genes upregulated, and 235 downregulated. GO analysis showed that the primary biological processes of these DEGs were cell adhesion, leukocyte migration, and angiogenesis. The main cellular components included the extracellular space, extracellular exosome, and extracellular region. The molecular functions were integrin binding, heparin binding, and calcium ion binding. KEGG pathway analysis showed that DEGs are primarily involved in PPAR signaling pathway, extracellular matrix–receptor interactions, and regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes. Survival analysis showed that seven genes—AURKA, GAPDH, TOP2A, PPARG, SCD, FABP4, and CEBPA—may be potential prognostic markers for MM. Immunohistochemical studies showed that Aurora kinase A (AURKA gene encode, Aurora-A) and GAPDH were highly expressed in MM tissue in comparison with normal mesothelial tissue. Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed a correlation between Aurora-A protein expression and overall survival but did not confirm a correlation with GAPDH. The receiver operating characteristic curves of Aurora-A protein expression suggested acceptable accuracy (AUC = 0.827; 95% CI [0.6686 to 0.9535]; p = 0.04). The sensitivity and specificity of Aurora-A were 83.33% and 77.78%, respectively.

Conclusion

Aurora-A could be an optimal diagnostic biomarker and a potential prognostic marker for MM.

Epidemiology and outcome of peritoneal and pleural mesothelioma subtypes in Norway. A 20 year nation-wide study

BACKGROUND

Mesothelioma of the pleural or peritoneal cavities is one of the deadliest cancer types. The incidence of pleural subtypes has decreased over time due to decrease in asbestos exposure, and the current treatment landscape is changing due to introduction of novel therapies. In this study we have analysed contemporary epidemiological data of mesothelioma on a national level before the advent of immunotherapy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Complete national data on 1509 pleural and peritoneal malignant mesothelioma from the Cancer Registry of Norway from 2000 to 2019 are presented. Age standardised incidence and median survival were calculated.

RESULTS

The age-standardised incidence of pleural mesothelioma among males has decreased from 1.7 per 100 000 in 2000-2004 to 1.1 in 2015-2019, whereas the incidence for females has been stable, lower than 0.3 per 100 000 throughout the period. Incidence of peritoneal mesotheliomas remained low, below 0.08 per 100 000. The female to male ratio among pleural mesotheliomas was 1:7 with no differences among morphological subtypes, whereas this ratio was 1:1.2 in peritoneal mesotheliomas. Median age at diagnosis for pleural mesothelioma was 73 years and 76 years for females and males respectively in the last 5-year period, and 67 years for peritoneal mesotheliomas of both sexes. Median survival among pleural mesotheliomas has been stable, with significantly worse prognosis among sarcomatoid subtype (5.4 months) compared to epithelioid subtype (15.8 months). Peritoneal mesothelioma of the epithelioid subtype, representing 38% of cases, had a median survival of 43.3 months, contrasting the non-epithelioid subtype of 5.1 months.

DISCUSSION

Mesothelioma is still a significant disease with a dismal prognosis. Improvement in treatment is warranted.

Peritoneal mesothelioma with invasion of the urinary bladder 20 years post radiation therapy for colon adenocarcinoma

We present the case of a 66-year-old male with a history of iatrogenic bladder injury and radiation therapy for colon adenocarcinoma 20 years prior. A computed tomography of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis, reported a presacral mass with invasion to the bladder, ureters and lymph nodes. An initial bladder biopsy was histologically inconclusive. A later biopsy taken during emergency bypass surgery for small bowel obstruction, while the patient was positive for coronavirus disease of 2019, concluded that the mass was a peritoneal mesothelioma of epithelioid origin. The combination management of cytoreductive surgery with intraperitoneal chemotherapy has been a near universal standard of care for epithelioid peritoneal mesothelioma provided that the patient is an appropriate candidate for surgical interventions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma as a second primary carcinoma, many years after exposure to radiation therapy for colon adenocarcinoma.

Prognostic role of radiological peritoneal cancer index in malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: national cohort study

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) is a rare cancer of the mesothelial cells of the peritoneum. Computed tomography (CT) is considered the standard for first-line imaging of MPeM, diagnosis and risk stratification remains challenging. Peritoneal cancer index (PCI), as assessed by CT, is utilized in the prognostic assessment of other malignant intra-abdominal conditions; however, there is limited data concerning the utility of PCI in the diagnosis and workup of MPeM. We studied a retrospective cohort of all patients diagnosed with MPeM from 2000 to 2012 in Finland. CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were reviewed and scored by an experienced and blinded, board-certified abdominal radiologist. Additional clinical data and outcomes were obtained from Finnish Cancer Registry (FCR), the Workers' Compensations Center (WCC), and Statistics Finland (SF). Abdominal CT or MRI was available for 53 of 90 patients. The median radiographic PCI was 25. PCI score was correlated with overall survival (p = 0.004, Exp(B) = 1.064, 95% CI 1.020-1.110). PCI score ≥ 30 was associated with worse survival (p = 0.002), while PCI ≤ 19 was associated with improved overall survival (p = 0.001). Our study indicates that radiological PCI is prognostic in MPeM and should be assessed during radiographic workup and integrated into clinical decision-making.

Distal pancreatectomy in cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Identifying risk and improving patient selection

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) has become a principal tool in the management of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC), but inclusion of pancreatic resection to obtain optimal debulking remains controversial.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 419 patients with PC who underwent CRS/HIPEC. The patients were divided into two cohorts, those with distal pancreatectomy (DP) and those without (NP), and morbidity and survival outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

The DP cohort (n = 37) and the NP cohort (n = 371) had similar clinicopathologic characteristics (age, p = 0.596; gender, p = 0.328; ASA, p = 0.072). Operative time, number of organs resected, and EBL were greater in the DP cohort (<0.0001). A complete cytoreduction was achieved in 90% of the NP cohort versus 69% of the DP cohort (p = 0.0004). Major perioperative morbidity was more common in those with pancreatic resection (41% vs 19%, p = 0.002). However, there was no significant difference in 90-day mortality or overall survival.

CONCLUSION

Achieving complete cytoreduction is critical to improving long term outcomes for patients with PC. Although pancreatic resections are associated with higher morbidity, short-term survival is not impacted adversely. Pancreatic involvement should not be a strict exclusion criterion for CRS/HIPEC, but patients need to be selected carefully, with close attention to disease burden prior to proceeding.

Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma as a Rare Cause of Dyspeptic Complaints and Ascites: A Diagnostic Challenge

Introduction

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare malignancy of the mesothelial cells in the peritoneum. The best-defined risk factor is asbestos exposure, but germline mutations in BAP1 also increase susceptibility to this tumor. The diagnosis of MPM is challenging since clinical manifestations are often nonspecific.

Case Presentation

We describe a case of MPM in a 53-year-old former construction worker with prior asbestos exposure. The clinical presentation was a 3-month history of dyspeptic complaints. As initial workup, abdominal ultrasound and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were performed. Chronic gastritis due to Helicobacter pylori was detected, which was promptly treated but without symptom relief. Abdominal ultrasound showed small volume ascites with hyperechogenic foci, which was later confirmed on computed tomography scan showing the presence of peritoneal nodules in the greater omentum and mesentery. A thorough investigation was conducted based on the suspicion of peritoneal carcinomatosis. A non-peritoneal primary tumor was not found. Ascitic cytology and immunocytochemical studies were suggestive of mesothelioma. He underwent exploratory laparotomy and inoperable peritoneal disease was observed. Peritoneal biopsy confirmed epithelioid-type MPM. Systemic therapy was initiated with platinum plus pemetrexed with good response. The last follow-up was 38 months after the diagnosis.

Discussion/Conclusion

The diagnosis of MPM is challenging since it requires a high degree of suspicion. MPM has a poor prognosis. The standard of treatment recommended is cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. For those who are inoperable, systemic therapy with pemetrexed-cisplatin combination is the alternative. Given the infrequency of disease, it is imperative to ensure patient participation in clinical trials with the purpose of treatment standardization.

Impact of hypoxia on chemoresistance of mesothelioma mediated by the proton-coupled folate transporter, and preclinical activity of new anti-LDH-A compounds

BACKGROUND

Expression of proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT) is associated with survival of mesothelioma patients treated with pemetrexed, and is reduced by hypoxia, prompting studies to elucidate their correlation.

METHODS

Modulation of glycolytic gene expression was evaluated by PCR arrays in tumour cells and primary cultures growing under hypoxia, in spheroids and after PCFT silencing. Inhibitors of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH-A) were tested in vitro and in vivo. LDH-A expression was determined in tissue microarrays of radically resected malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM, N = 33) and diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM, N = 56) patients.

RESULTS

Overexpression of hypoxia marker CAIX was associated with low PCFT expression and decreased MPM cell growth inhibition by pemetrexed. Through integration of PCR arrays in hypoxic cells and spheroids and following PCFT silencing, we identified the upregulation of LDH-A, which correlated with shorter survival of MPM and DMPM patients. Novel LDH-A inhibitors enhanced spheroid disintegration and displayed synergistic effects with pemetrexed in MPM and gemcitabine in DMPM cells. Studies with bioluminescent hypoxic orthotopic and subcutaneous DMPM athymic-mice models revealed the marked antitumour activity of the LDH-A inhibitor NHI-Glc-2, alone or combined with gemcitabine.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides novel insights into hypoxia/PCFT-dependent chemoresistance, unravelling the potential prognostic value of LDH-A, and demonstrating the preclinical activity of LDH-A inhibitors.

Cisplatin plus pemetrexed therapy and subsequent immune checkpoint inhibitor administration for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma without pleural lesions: Case report

RATIONALE

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare tumor with a poor prognosis and has no recommended therapy after first-line pemetrexed and platinum-based chemotherapy. Moreover, effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors on peritoneal mesothelioma remains to be elucidated. We herein report the case of a 75-year-old man with peritoneal mesothelioma treated with cisplatin plus pemetrexed and subsequent nivolumab.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 75-year-old man was referred to our hospital due to lower abdominal pain.

DIAGNOSIS

Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (CT) showed the accumulation of fluorodeoxyglucose in an intraperitoneal mass. A histological examination of a laparoscopic biopsy specimen revealed malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.

INTERVENTIONS

After 4 cycles of cisplatin plus pemetrexed and 13 subsequent cycles of pemetrexed maintenance therapy showed beneficial responses until CT revealed liver metastasis. Nivolumab was then administered as the second-line therapy.

OUTCOMES

After 3 cycles of biweekly nivolumab administration, he developed severe abdominal distention. CT revealed an intraperitoneal mass growing much more rapidly than ever, indicating hyperprogressive disease after nivolumab treatment. He ultimately died 51 days after the initial nivolumab administration.

LESSONS

To our knowledge, this is the first report of hyperprogressive disease in a case of peritoneal mesothelioma after nivolumab treatment. While immune checkpoint inhibitors may be promising therapeutic strategies for treating malignant peritoneal mesothelioma, careful monitoring must be practiced with their application.

Quality of Life After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Early Results from a Prospective Cohort Study of 115 Patients

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to describe short- and medium-term longitudinal quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC were recruited. The primary outcome was QoL, measured using the short-form 36 questionnaire and expressed as a physical component score (PCS) and a mental component score (MCS), with higher scores representing better QoL. Data were collected prospectively at baseline and before discharge, then 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Trajectories of the PCS and MCS were described for the study period and grouped according to a peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) (≤ 12 vs. ≥ 13) and a completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score (CC0 vs. CC1-CC3).

RESULTS

Overall, 117 patients underwent CRS and HIPEC and 115 (98.3%) of the 117 patients participated in the study. The main primary pathology was colorectal in 52 (45%) of the 115 patients and appendiceal in 27 (23.5%) of the 115 patients. The median baseline PCS [48.16; interquartile range (IQR), 38.6-54.9] had decreased at pre-discharge (35.34; IQR, 28.7-41.8), then increased slightly at 3 months (42.54; IQR, 37.6-51.6), before returning to baseline within 6 months (48.35; IQR, 39.1-52.5) and remaining unchanged 12 months after surgery (48.55; IQR, 40.8-55.5). The MCS remained unchanged during the study period. The patients with a PCI of 13 or higher had worse PCS and MCS during the postoperative period than the patients with a PCI of 12 or lower.

CONCLUSIONS

The CRS and HIPEC procedures impaired PCS, with scores returning to baseline within 6 months after surgery, whereas MCS remained unchanged. The patients with a lower PCI had better postoperative QoL outcomes. For patients with peritoneal malignancy, CRS and HIPEC can be performed with acceptable short- to medium-term QoL outcomes.

Curcumin as an Anticancer Agent in Malignant Mesothelioma: A Review

Malignant mesothelioma is an infrequent tumor that initiates from the mesothelial cells lining of body cavities. The great majority of mesotheliomas originate in the pleural cavity, while the remaining cases initiate in the peritoneal cavity, in the pericardial cavity or on the tunica vaginalis. Usually, mesotheliomas grow in a diffuse pattern and tend to enclose and compress the organs in the various body cavities. Mesothelioma incidence is increasing worldwide and still today, the prognosis is very poor, with a reported median survival of approximately one year from presentation. Thus, the development of alternative and more effective therapies is currently an urgent requirement. The aim of this review article was to describe recent findings about the anti-cancer activity of curcumin and some of its derivatives on mesotheliomas. The potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Surgeons' Ability to Predict the Extent of Surgery Prior to Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

Background

The extent of surgery (ES) during cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC) is a well-known risk factor for major postoperative morbidity. Interestingly, the reliability of surgeons to predict the ES prior to CRS + HIPEC is unknown.

Methods

In this prospective, observational cohort study, five surgeons predicted the ES prior to surgery in all consecutive patients with peritoneal metastases (PM) who were scheduled for CRS + HIPEC between March 2018 and May 2019. After the preoperative work-up for CRS + HIPEC was completed, all surgeons independently predicted, for each individual patient, the resection or preservation of 22 different anatomical structures and the presence of a stoma post-HIPEC according to a standardized ES form. The actual ES during CRS + HIPEC was extracted from the surgical procedure report and compared with the predicted ES. Overall and individual positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) for each anatomical structure were calculated.

Results

One hundred and thirty-one ES forms were collected from 32 patients who successfully underwent CRS + HIPEC. The number of resections was predicted correctly 24 times (18.3%), overestimated 57 times (43.5%), and underestimated 50 times (38.2%). Overall PPVs for the different anatomical structures ranged between 33.3 and 87.8%. Overall, NPVs ranged between 54.9 and 100%, and an NPV > 90% was observed for 12 anatomical structures.

Conclusions

Experienced surgeons seem to be able to better predict the anatomical structures that remain in situ after CRS + HIPEC, rather than predict the resections that were necessary to achieve a complete cytoreduction.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1245/s10434-020-08237-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Peritoneal mesothelioma

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and lethal disease of the peritoneal lining, with high variability in biologic aggressiveness. Morbidity and mortality of the disease are related to progressive locoregional effects within the abdominal cavity, such as distention, pain, early satiety, and decreased oral intake that can ultimately lead to bowel obstruction and cachexia. The standard of care for patients with resectable disease remains cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC), with potential survival outcomes greater than 5 years in appropriately selected patients. Patients with inoperable MPM can be offered systemic treatment, although the disease is usually refractory to standard chemotherapic regimens. Patients with MPM should be treated at high volume centers with strong consideration for inclusion in tumor registries and clinical trials. In 2020, research will continue to explore promising genetic and immunologic targets and focus on refinement of surgical methods to optimize CRS-HIPEC approaches.

Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Patterns of Care and Survival in the Netherlands: A Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive disease. Recently, focus has shifted toward a more aggressive and multimodal treatment approach. This study aimed to assess the patterns of care and survival for MPM patients in the Netherlands on a nationwide basis.

METHODS

The records of patients with a diagnosis of MPM from 1993 to 2016 were retrieved from the Dutch Cancer Registry. Data regarding diagnosis, staging, treatment, and survival were extracted. Cox regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to study overall survival.

RESULTS

Between 1993 and 2016, MPM was diagnosed for 566 patients. Overall, the prognosis was very poor (24% 1-year survival). The most common morphologic subtype was the epithelioid subtype (88%), followed by the biphasic (8%) and sarcomatoid (4%) subtypes. Surgical treatment has become more common in recent years, which most likely has resulted in improved survival rates. In this study, improved survival was independently associated with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.33; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21-0.55) and surgery with adjuvant systemic chemotherapy (HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.23-0.48). Nonetheless, most patients (67%) do not receive any form of anti-cancer treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that MPM still is a rare and fatal disease. The survival rates in the Netherlands have improved slightly in the past decade, most likely due to more aggressive treatment approaches and increased use of surgery. However, most patients still do not receive cancer-directed treatment. To improve MPM management, and ultimately survival, care should be centralized in expert medical centers.

Curcumin C3 complex®/Bioperine® has antineoplastic activity in mesothelioma: an in vitro and in vivo analysis

BACKGROUND

A major limitation in the treatment for malignant mesothelioma is related to serious side effects caused by chemotherapeutics and to the development of cancer-resistance. Advances in cancer therapies have been reached thanks to the introduction of alternative approaches, such as the use of phytochemicals. Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® is a commercially standardized extract containing a ratio-defined mixture of three curcuminoids and piperine that greatly increase its bioavailability. Interestingly, the anticancer effect of this formulation has been described in different studies and several clinical trials have been started, but to our knowledge none refers to human mesothelioma.

METHODS

Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® anticancer effect was evaluated in vitro in different human mesothelioma cell lines analysing cell proliferation, colony-forming assay, wound healing assays, invasion assay and FACS analysis. In vivo anticancer properties were analysed in a mesothelioma xenograft mouse model in CD1 Nude mice.

RESULTS

Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® in vitro induced growth inhibition in all mesothelioma cell lines analysed in a dose- and time-depended manner and reduced self-renewal cell migration and cell invasive ability. Cell death was due to apoptosis. The analysis of the molecular signalling pathway suggested that intrinsic apoptotic pathway is activated by this treatment. This treatment in vivo delayed the growth of the ectopic tumours in a mesothelioma xenograft mouse model.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® treatment strongly reduces in vitro tumorigenic properties of mesothelioma cells by impairing cellular self-renewal ability, proliferative cell rate and cell migration and delays tumor growth in xenograft mouse model by reducing angiogenesis and increasing apoptosis. Considering that curcumin in vivo synergizes drug effects, its administration to treatment regimen may help to enhance drug therapeutic efficacy in mesothelioma. Our results suggest that implementation of standard pharmacological therapies with novel compounds may pave the way to develop alternative approaches to mesothelioma.

Bidirectional chemotherapy allowing surgery and HIPEC for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma

Background

This case report aims to describe the impact of the bidirectional chemotherapy (BDC) on resecability for initially unresectable malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM).

Methods

We report a case of 55-year-old male with the diagnosis of initially unresecable MPM. The BDC combined intravenous (IV) chemotherapy (Cisplatin–Pemetrexed) and intra peritoneal (IP) chemotherapy (Cisplatin). The response to chemotherapy was assessed by CT – scan and laparoscopy.

Results

Initial evaluation classed the disease as unresecable with PCI at 39. At the reevaluation, CT – scan and laparoscopy showed a macroscopic response, allowing surgery consisting of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intra peritoneal chemotherapy (Doxorubicin and Cisplatin).

Conclusions

BDC (IV and IP) has promising results and allows to undergo surgery for selected patients with borderline or initially unresectable MPM.