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Fride N, Nachbor KM, Nelson AT, Snook K, Shaker RM, Mavrommatis S, Seaver CD, Semanko L, Bedi M, Keeler E, Dusenbery KE, Retzlaff AA. Assessing Sarcoma Awareness Among the General Population in Minnesota: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study from the Minnesota State Fair in 2015 and 2022. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2024:10.1007/s13187-024-02485-y. [PMID: 39158629 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-024-02485-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Sarcomas are commonly misdiagnosed, and treatment delays negatively impact patient outcomes. The purpose of this study is to explore patient threshold for and timeline to medical evaluation, to identify providers most likely to be contacted first, and to assess general sarcoma knowledge in Minnesota's general population. Voluntary participants were recruited at the 2015 and 2022 Minnesota State Fair to complete a three-part survey. Part 1 assessed evaluation timeline and provider choice, part 2 evaluated sarcoma knowledge via a ten-question survey, and part 3 documented demographics. Responses were electronically recorded, and results were tabulated. Overall, 2124 participants completed some or all of the survey. Part 1: Participants indicated they would seek more urgent treatment for a painful mass compared to a non-painful mass (p < 0.001). The majority (77%) of participants indicated a family medicine physician would be their first contact for painful and non-painful masses. Part 2: There was no difference in overall score (percent correct) when comparing results from 2015 (mean = 40%) to 2022 (mean = 42%) (p = 0.183). Overall, 16% (349/2117) of participants had no correct responses. Individuals who self-identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity and a non-White race performed worse (p < 0.001). In general, scores improved with increased education and those with a graduate or professional degree had an estimated 2.515-point increase in score compared to participants with some high school education or high school diploma/general education diploma (p < 0.001). Participants with a healthcare background scored better (p < 0.001). Pain is a driving factor for patient-initiated evaluation, and primary care providers are the most likely first contact for patients. General sarcoma awareness remains low, even among those with advanced degrees and healthcare experience. Ongoing educational efforts are warranted for both the general public and healthcare communities in Minnesota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nea Fride
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kristine M Nachbor
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alexander T Nelson
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten Snook
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rami M Shaker
- Department of Medicine, UnityPoint Health, University of Iowa, Des Moines, IA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Manpreet Bedi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center - Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Kathryn E Dusenbery
- Rein in Sarcoma, Fridley, MN, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Amber A Retzlaff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, 800 E 28th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55407, USA.
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Rugge M, Buja A, Tropea S, Girardi G, Cozzolino C, Zorzi M, Vecchiato A, Stefano A, Del Fiore P, Brunello A, Brazzale A, Sbaraglia M, Dei Tos AP, Baldo V, Benini P, Bortolami A, Rastrelli M, Dall'Olmo L, Rossi CR, Mocellin S. Indicators of clinical performance in monitoring soft tissue sarcoma management: a population-based perspective. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1226090. [PMID: 37614947 PMCID: PMC10442531 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1226090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare malignancies which prognosis varies significantly by primary site, histological subtype, and tumor stage. Their low incidence, and the complexity of their clinico-pathological characteristics demand standardized, cancer-tailored diagnostics and therapies managed at high-volume, multidisciplinary care centers. This study evaluates the quality of STS management in north-east Italy (Veneto Region) through a list of ad hoc defined clinical indicators. Methods This population-based study concerns all incident cases of STS in 2018 (214 cases) recorded in the adult population censored by the Veneto's regional Cancer Registry. Based on the international literature, a multidisciplinary working group of experts identified a set of indicators for monitoring the quality of diagnostic, therapeutic, and end-of-life clinical interventions. The quality of care was assessed by comparing the reference thresholds with the indicators' values achieved in clinical practice. Results Diagnostic procedures showed poor adherence to the thresholds, with a low percentage of histological diagnoses validated by a second opinion. The indicators relating to the surgical treatment of superficial, small, low-grade STS, or of medium, high-grade STS of the head-neck, trunk, or limbs were consistent with the thresholds, while for intermediate, high-grade (large-sized, deep) and retroperitoneal STS they fell significantly below the thresholds. Conclusion A critical evaluation of the clinical indicators allowed to uncover the procedures needing corrective action. Monitoring clinical care indicators improves cancer care, confirms the importance of managing rare cancers at highly specialized, high-volume centers, and promotes the ethical sustainability of the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Rugge
- Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine—DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Veneto Tumor Registry, Azienda Zero, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandra Buja
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Saveria Tropea
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Girardi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Claudia Cozzolino
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health—SDB, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Manuel Zorzi
- Veneto Tumor Registry, Azienda Zero, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonella Vecchiato
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonella Stefano
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Del Fiore
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonella Brunello
- Medical Oncology 1 Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Marta Sbaraglia
- Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine—DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Azienda Ospedale Università Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Dei Tos
- Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine—DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Azienda Ospedale Università Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Baldo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Benini
- Directorate General, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Marco Rastrelli
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology—DISCOG, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Luigi Dall'Olmo
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology—DISCOG, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Carlo Riccardo Rossi
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology—DISCOG, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Simone Mocellin
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology—DISCOG, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Strönisch A, Märdian S, Flörcken A. Centralized and Interdisciplinary Therapy Management in the Treatment of Sarcomas. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13040979. [PMID: 37109507 PMCID: PMC10144040 DOI: 10.3390/life13040979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcoma treatment requires a high level of expertise due to its rarity and heterogeneity. Sarcoma patients should, therefore, be referred to an expert centre as early as possible to ensure optimal treatment. Numerous studies have been carried out to provide evidence for this strategy. In compliance with the 2020 PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Ovid Medline, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Library databases. The subject of these studies was the centralised treatment of adult sarcoma patients at expert centres and the use of interdisciplinary tumour boards. Uncertainty in therapy, delays in referral to expert centres, and limited access to therapeutic modalities continue to be a challenge in sarcoma therapy. At expert centres, diagnostic procedures were more frequently and adequately performed, and treatment was associated with an improvement in outcomes in the majority of studies: patients benefited from longer survival, lower local recurrence rates and a better postoperative outcome. The implementation of an interdisciplinary tumour board was associated with discrepant results. In a greater number of studies, it was associated with a lower local relapse rate, better overall survival and surgical outcome. In two studies, however, a shorter overall survival was observed. The establishment of expert centres and the consistent use of interdisciplinary tumour boards are important structures for ensuring multidisciplinary therapy approaches. There is growing evidence that this holds great potential for optimising sarcoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Strönisch
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Märdian
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Flörcken
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Wang EHM, Araneta KTS, Gaston CLL, Rubio DAT, de Dios AMV, Cañal JPA, Goleta-Dy AN, Alcasabas APA, Odoño EG, Atun JML, Fernando GY, Dimayuga CCD, Quintos AJD. Unplanned Excision of Soft Tissue Sarcomas of the Extremities in a Low-to-Middle-Income Country. Ann Surg Oncol 2023; 30:3681-3689. [PMID: 36800129 PMCID: PMC9936942 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-13188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outcomes of unplanned excisions of extremity soft tissue sarcomas (STSE) range from poor to even superior compared with planned excisions in developed countries. However, little is known regarding outcomes in low-to-middle-income countries. This study aimed to determine whether definitively treated STSE patients with a previous unplanned excision have poorer oncologic outcomes compared with those with planned excisions. PATIENTS AND METHODS Using the database of a single sarcoma practice, we reviewed 148 patients with STSE managed with definitive surgery-78 with previous unplanned excisions (UE) and 70 with planned excisions (PE). RESULTS Median follow-up was 4.4 years. UE patients had more surgeries overall and plastic reconstructions (P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, overall survival (OS), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) were not worse among UE patients compared with PE patients. Negative predictors for LRFS were high tumor grade (P = 0.031) and an R1 surgical margin (P < 0.001). High grade (P <0.001), local recurrence (P = 0.001), and planned excisions (P = 0.009) predicted poorer DMFS, while age over 65 years (P = 0.011) and distant metastasis predicted poorer OS (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS We recommend systematic re-excision for patients with unplanned excisions. Our study shows that STSE patients with UE, when subjected to re-excision with appropriate surgical margins, can achieve oncologic results similar to those for PE patients. However, there is an associated increased number of surgeries and plastic reconstruction for UE patients. This underscores the need, especially in a resource-limited setting, for education and collaborative policies to raise awareness about STSE among patients and physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward H. M. Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Section of Tumor Orthopedics, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Czar Louie L. Gaston
- Department of Orthopedics, Section of Tumor Orthopedics, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Donnel Alexis T. Rubio
- Department of Orthopedics, Section of Tumor Orthopedics, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ariel M. Vergel de Dios
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Johanna Patricia A. Cañal
- Department of Radiology, Section of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Amy N. Goleta-Dy
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematologic Oncology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ana Patricia A. Alcasabas
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematologic Oncology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eugene G. Odoño
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jenny Maureen L. Atun
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gracieux Y. Fernando
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Medical Oncology, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Cesar Cipriano D. Dimayuga
- Department of Orthopedics, Section of Tumor Orthopedics, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Albert Jerome D. Quintos
- Department of Orthopedics, Section of Tumor Orthopedics, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
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Review of the referral documents of patients with malignant soft tissue tumors. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19527. [PMID: 36376458 PMCID: PMC9663495 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24158-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifteen years have passed since the soft tissue tumor practice guidelines were first published in Japan. Tumor size of ≥ 5 cm and tumor depth were key findings suggestive of malignant soft tissue tumors. We reviewed the referral documents provided by the referring physicians to see if these two findings were reported. The study was conducted from January 2007 to December 2021 and included 142 patients (83 men and 59 women; median age, 64 [6-94] years) with malignant soft tissue tumors. Patient referral documents from physicians were screened for descriptions of the tumor size and depth. The tumor size, depth, and both were described in 51.4%, 36.6%, and 23.2% of the referrals, respectively. Both findings were mentioned in 23.8%, 21.7%, and 25.0% of referrals in 2007-2011, 2012-2016, and 2017-2021, respectively. Of orthopedic surgeons and other physicians, 61.2% and 38.6%, respectively, described the tumor size. Whether the general physicians could follow the soft tissue tumor practice guidelines was difficult to conclude by reviewing patient referral documents. However, orthopedic surgeons seemed to pay more attention to tumor size. Awareness regarding soft tissue tumor practice guidelines should be increased to help diagnose malignant soft tissue tumors early.
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Fernández JÁ, Pérez BG, Cantín S, Asencio JM, Artigas V. National survey on the treatment of sarcomas in Spain. Cir Esp 2022; 100:193-201. [PMID: 35491323 DOI: 10.1016/j.cireng.2022.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Surgical units attending sarcomas in Spain are poor studied. The aim is to know the management of this pathology to identify areas of improvement through multicenter study based on a voluntary survey. The survey was completed by 74 surgeons of different hospitals, which 32,4% is exclusively dedicated to sarcomas. Only 24.3% declared to receive specific training in sarcomas. The most frequent type of hospital was the third level (56.8%), where 38,1% of the surgeons belong to societies or working-groups in sarcoma fields vs. 9,4% in first-second levels. The number of surgeons with specific theoretical training and papers published in this field are higher in third level hospitals. 55,4% belonged to a multidisciplinary unit. A multidisciplinary team was available in 57% of third level hospital vs 28% in others. Most services in charge of this patients are characterized by deficient specialization, low workload and the absence of a multidisciplinary team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ángel Fernández
- Unidad de Sarcomas y Tumores Mesenquimales, Servicio de Cirugía General y del Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Beatriz Gómez Pérez
- Unidad de Sarcomas y Tumores Mesenquimales, Servicio de Cirugía General y del Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Sonia Cantín
- Unidad de Cirugía Esofagogástrica y Sarcomas, Servicio de Cirugía General y Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - José Manuel Asencio
- Sección Cirugía HPB y Unidad de Trasplante Hepático, CSUR de Sarcomas y Tumores Musculoesqueléticos, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente Artigas
- Coordinador Grupo de Trabajo de Sarcomas y Tumores Mesenquimales de la Asociación Española de Cirujanos (AEC), Spain
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Nakamura T, Kawai A, Sudo A. The incidence of unplanned excision in patients with soft tissue sarcoma: Reports from the Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor registry in Japan. J Orthop Sci 2022; 27:468-472. [PMID: 33558102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jos.2020.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to their rarity, soft tissue sarcomas (STS)s are often treated surgically as unplanned excisions (UE)s before referral to specialists. The Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor (BSTT) registry is a nationwide, organ-specific cancer registry for bone and soft-tissue tumors in Japan. The aim of this study was to elucidate the incidence and risk factors for UEs using data from the BSTT registry. METHODS Our study comprised 8761 patients with STS including 4826 males and 3935 females, with a mean age of 59 years (range, 0-105 years). Patients were classified into primary STS and UE groups. RESULTS Superficial and deep tumors were found in 2533 and 6120 patients, respectively. The mean STS size was 8.6 cm (range, 0.2-49 cm). We identified 6610 patients with high-grade, and 1758 patients with low-grade STS. Of the total 8761 patients, 7770 patients had primary STSs, whereas 991 patients were referred after undergoing UE. The UE mean incidence rate over 11 years was 11.3%. The UE incidence rates for leiomyosarcoma (LMS) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.75, p < 0.0001), fibrosarcoma (FS) (OR = 2.28, p < 0.0001), and epithelioid sarcoma (OR = 1.82, p = 0.01) were higher than the mean UE incidence rate (11.3%). Of 757 patients who underwent UE, 354 (47%) patients had superficial (≤5 cm) STSs, whereas 156 (20.6%) of patients had deep STSs (>5 cm) (p < 0.0001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that UE was frequently associated with males and small, superficial, and trunk STSs. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, the mean UE incidence rate (11.3%) was significantly different from the individual UE incidence rates of histological diagnoses suggesting that surgeons should consider STS, even with small tumors. Continuous education during training for medical students and surgeons is essential to ensure awareness and correct diagnostic procedures for STS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoki Nakamura
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu-city, Mie, 514-8507, Japan.
| | - Akira Kawai
- Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Akihiro Sudo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu-city, Mie, 514-8507, Japan
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Benz MR, Crompton JG, Harder D. PET/CT variants and pitfalls in bone and soft tissue sarcoma. Semin Nucl Med 2021; 51:584-592. [PMID: 34238508 DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2021.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sarcomas are rare tumors of mesenchymal origin and comprise only around 1% of adult cancers. The abundance of sarcoma histiotypes, with distinct imaging characteristics, biology, clinical behavior and treatment strategy, result in a complex disease presentation, requiring management by multidisciplinary specialized sarcoma centers. Oncologic and musculoskeletal radiology guidelines provide minimal guidance and only fragmentary information on the indications of 18F-FDG PET/CT in sarcoma. Therefore, knowledge of various phenotypes with preference for bone and lymph node metastases or higher incidence of local and distant recurrence is essential to select the appropriate diagnostic imaging tests and its interpretation. Benign and malignant soft tissue and bone tumors often share common radiographic and metabolic imaging characteristics. In addition, metastases of various histiotypes might exhibit a spectrum of atypical imaging appearances. Therefore, imaging specialists need to be aware of these variants and associated pitfalls of sarcoma imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias R Benz
- Ahmanson Translational Theranostics Division, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Radiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
| | - Joseph G Crompton
- Division of Surgical Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Dorothee Harder
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital of Basel, Switzerland
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Fernández JÁ, Gómez Pérez B, Cantín S, Asencio JM, Artigas V. National survey on the treatment of sarcomas in Spain. Cir Esp 2021; 100:S0009-739X(21)00204-9. [PMID: 34183153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ciresp.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Surgical units attending sarcomas in Spain are poor studied. The aim is to know the management of this pathology to identify areas of improvement through multicenter study based on a voluntary survey. The survey was completed by 74 surgeons of different hospitals, which 32.4% is exclusively dedicated to sarcomas. Only 24.3% declared to receive specific training in sarcomas. The most frequent type of hospital was the third level (56.8%), where 38.1% of the surgeons belong to societies or working-groups in sarcoma fields vs. 9.4% in first-second levels. The number of surgeons with specific theoretical training and papers published in this field are higher in third level hospitals. 55.4% belonged to a multidisciplinary unit. A multidisciplinary team was available in 57% of third level hospital vs. 28% in others. Most services in charge of these patients are characterized by deficient specialization, low workload and the absence of a multidisciplinary team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ángel Fernández
- Unidad de Sarcomas y Tumores Mesenquimales, Servicio de Cirugía General y del Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, España.
| | - Beatriz Gómez Pérez
- Unidad de Sarcomas y Tumores Mesenquimales, Servicio de Cirugía General y del Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, España
| | - Sonia Cantín
- Unidad de Cirugía Esofagogástrica y Sarcomas, Servicio de Cirugía General y Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, España
| | - José Manuel Asencio
- Sección Cirugía HPB y Unidad de Trasplante Hepático, CSUR de Sarcomas y Tumores Musculoesqueléticos, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, España
| | - Vicente Artigas
- Coordinación Grupo de Trabajo de Sarcomas y Tumores Mesenquimales de la Asociación Española de Cirujanos (AEC), España
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de Heus E, Engelen V, Dingemans I, Richel C, Schrieks M, van der Zwan JM, Besselink MG, van Berge Henegouwen MI, van Herpen CML, Duijts SFA. Differences in health care experiences between rare cancer and common cancer patients: results from a national cross-sectional survey. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:249. [PMID: 34074302 PMCID: PMC8170927 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01886-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with rare cancers face challenges in the diagnostic and treatment phase, and in access to clinical expertise. Since studies on health care experiences of these patients in comparison to patients with more common cancers are scarce, we aimed to explore these differences. Methods Data were cross-sectionally collected among (former) adult cancer patients through a national online survey in the Netherlands (October 2019). Descriptive statistics were reported and subgroups (rare vs. common patients) were compared. Results In total, 7343 patients (i.e., 1856 rare and 5487 common cancer patients) participated. Rare cancer patients were more often diagnosed and treated in different hospitals compared to common cancer patients (67% vs. 59%, p < 0.001). Rare cancer patients received treatment more often in a single hospital (60% vs. 57%, p = 0.014), but reported more negative experiences when treated in multiple hospitals than common cancer patients (14% vs. 9%, p < 0.001). They also more often received advise from their physician about the hospital to go to for a second opinion (50% vs. 36%, p < 0.001), were more likely to choose a hospital specialized in their cancer type (33% vs. 22%, p < 0.001), and were more willing to travel as long as necessary to receive specialized care than common cancer patients (55% vs. 47%, p < 0.001). Conclusions Rare and common cancer patients differ in their health care experiences. Health care for rare cancer patients can be further improved by proper referral to centers of expertise and building a clinical network specifically for rare cancers. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-021-01886-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline de Heus
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Godebaldkwartier 419, 3511 DT, Utrecht, The Netherlands. .,Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Vivian Engelen
- Dutch Federation of Cancer Patients Organisations (Nederlandse Federatie Van Kankerpatiëntenorganisaties, NFK), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Irene Dingemans
- Dutch Federation of Cancer Patients Organisations (Nederlandse Federatie Van Kankerpatiëntenorganisaties, NFK), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carol Richel
- Dutch Breast Cancer Association (Borstkankervereniging Nederland, BVN), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marga Schrieks
- Dutch Federation of Cancer Patients Organisations (Nederlandse Federatie Van Kankerpatiëntenorganisaties, NFK), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Maarten van der Zwan
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Godebaldkwartier 419, 3511 DT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marc G Besselink
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark I van Berge Henegouwen
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla M L van Herpen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia F A Duijts
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Godebaldkwartier 419, 3511 DT, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Jo OI, Choong PFM. Centre-Based Care for Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Sarcoma 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-9414-4_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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12
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Impact of centralization in primary retroperitoneal sarcoma treatment: analysis using hospital-based cancer registry data in Japan. Int J Clin Oncol 2020; 25:1687-1694. [PMID: 32451766 DOI: 10.1007/s10147-020-01709-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To elucidate the clinicopathological features, hospital-based care volume and prognoses associated with primary retroperitoneal sarcoma (PRS). METHODS Clinical data on PRS cases, diagnosed from 2008 to 2009 (cohort A) and from 2012 to 2015 (cohort B), were obtained from the national hospital-based cancer registry in Japan. Since data on survival, 5 years after PRS diagnosis, were available only for cohort A, patient prognoses were analyzed in this group alone. RESULTS The numbers of participating hospitals were 154 in cohort A and 537 in cohort B. In total, 380 and 2011 patients with PRS were identified in cohorts A and B, respectively. The incidence of PRS among all the registered urogenital malignancies was 0.52% (2391/462,866). Liposarcoma was the most commonly observed PRS subtype (55.8%), followed by leiomyosarcoma (19.0%). In cohort A, the 5-year overall survival (OS) was 40.4%. The 5-year OS associated with stage I (n = 107), stages II and III (n = 61), and stage IV (n = 59) disease were 59%, 39%, and 6%, respectively. Only two institutions treated over ten patients per year in each cohort. When institutions were divided by hospital care volume (8 hospitals with ≥ = 3 cases and 149 with < 3 cases/year), there were any statistic differences in the OS. CONCLUSIONS We presented the distribution and prognoses associated with PRS using a real-world large cohort database. Centralization for PRS management was not established in Japan, while the prognosis did not significantly depend on the treatment volume of hospitals.
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13
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Gantzer J, Di Marco A, Fabacher T, Weingertner N, Delhorme JB, Brinkert D, Bierry G, Ghnassia JP, Jégu J, Kurtz JE. Conformity to Clinical Practice Guidelines at Initial Management in Adult Soft Tissue and Visceral Tumors since the Implementation of the NetSarc Network in Eastern France. Oncologist 2019; 24:e775-e783. [PMID: 31073021 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2018-0751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soft tissue sarcomas are rare and heterogenous tumors that are hard to diagnose. The aim of this study was to evaluate local practices and conformity to clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for their initial diagnostic management. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients were carriers of a soft tissue or visceral tumor, presented at a sarcoma tumor board (STB) between 2010 and 2016. Conformity to CPGs was evaluated using ten criteria designed for this purpose. Associations between different factors and conformity to composite criteria, reflecting the three main diagnostic steps (imaging, biopsy and histological report) were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 643 patients were included. A preoperative tumor imaging assessment and a biopsy were performed according to CPGs in 80.8% and 36.8% of the cases, respectively. When done, the first surgical resection was R0 in 30.3% of cases, R1 in 28.6%, and R2 in 10.9%. The rest of the operated patients with sarcoma had a second surgical excision (11.4%), an intraoperative fragmentation (4.3%), or margins were unknown (14.4%). Six of the ten quality criteria presented a conformity rate higher than 70%. Two criteria with a conformity rate lower than 20% were the most controversial: presentation at a STB before biopsy and freezing of a tumor fragment. A multivariate analysis revealed that the common predictor of nonconformity to composite criteria was the initial management in a nonexpert center. CONCLUSION Initial diagnostic management requires improvement, especially outside of specialized centers. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This article supports the essential need to refer patients with soft tissue tumors to specialized centers to improve the management of sarcomas beginning at the diagnostic phase. Indeed, the reported data were very similar to those already described at the national level of the NetSarc network and indicate the necessity to keep raising awareness about this simple issue: early referral to reference centers will save lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Gantzer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Antonio Di Marco
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Thibaut Fabacher
- Department of Public Health, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Noelle Weingertner
- Department of Pathology, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Delhorme
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - David Brinkert
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Guillaume Bierry
- Department of Radiology, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | | | - Jérémie Jégu
- Department of Public Health, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Kurtz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Increased survival of non low-grade and deep-seated soft tissue sarcoma after surgical management in high-volume hospitals: a nationwide study from the Netherlands. Eur J Cancer 2019; 110:98-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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15
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Pollock RE, Payne JE, Rogers AD, Smith SM, Iwenofu OH, Valerio IL, Zomerlei TA, Howard JH, Dornbos D, Galgano MA, Goulart C, Mendel E, Miller ED, Xu-Welliver M, Martin DD, Haglund KE, Bupathi M, Chen JL, Yeager ND. Multidisciplinary sarcoma care. Curr Probl Surg 2018; 55:517-580. [PMID: 30526918 DOI: 10.1067/j.cpsurg.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Raphael E Pollock
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH.
| | - Jason E Payne
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Alan D Rogers
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Stephen M Smith
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - O Hans Iwenofu
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Ian L Valerio
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | | | - David Dornbos
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | | | - Ehud Mendel
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Eric D Miller
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | | | - Karl E Haglund
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | - James L Chen
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Nicholas D Yeager
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
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Abstract
This article begins by introducing the historical background surrounding the volume-outcomes relationship literature, particularly in complex cancer surgery. The state of evidence surrounding mortality, as well as other outcomes, in relation to both hospital and surgeon procedure volume is synthesized. Where it is understood, the level of adoption of regionalization of various complex surgeries in the United States is also presented. Various controversies are weighed and discussed. Finally, various models of regionalization and proposed alternatives to regionalization from the peer-reviewed literature are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lumpkin
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Karyn Stitzenberg
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA.
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17
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Working to improve the management of sarcoma patients across Europe: a policy checklist. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:424. [PMID: 29661168 PMCID: PMC5902948 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4320-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Sarcoma Policy Checklist was created by a multidisciplinary expert group to provide policymakers with priority areas to improve care for sarcoma patients. Main body This paper draws on this research, by looking more closely at how France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom are addressing each of these priority areas. It aims to highlight key gaps in research, policy and practice, as well as ongoing initiatives that may impact the future care of sarcoma patients in different European countries. A pragmatic review of the published and web-based literature was undertaken. Telephone interviews were conducted in each country with clinical and patient experts to substantiate findings. Research findings were discussed within the expert group and developed into five core policy recommendations. The five identified priority areas were: the development of designated and accredited centres of reference; more professional training; multidisciplinary care; greater incentives for research and innovation; and more rapid access to effective treatments. Most of the countries studied have ongoing initiatives addressing many of these priorities; however, many are in early stages of development, or require additional funding and resources. Conclusion Gaps in access to quality care are particularly concerning in many of Europe’s lower-resourced countries. Equitable access to information, clinical trials, innovative treatments and quality specialist care should be available to all sarcoma patients. Achieving this across Europe will require close collaboration between all stakeholders at both the national and European level.
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18
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Hoekstra HJ, Haas RLM, Verhoef C, Suurmeijer AJH, van Rijswijk CSP, Bongers BGH, van der Graaf WT, Ho VKY. Adherence to Guidelines for Adult (Non-GIST) Soft Tissue Sarcoma in the Netherlands: A Plea for Dedicated Sarcoma Centers. Ann Surg Oncol 2017; 24:3279-3288. [PMID: 28748443 PMCID: PMC5596052 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-017-6003-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Optimal management of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) remains a challenge. A nationwide survey assessed the quality of STS care in the Netherlands, thereby aiming to identify potentialities for improvement through more centralized disease management. METHODS From the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR), data were obtained on 3317 adult STS patients (excluding gastrointestinal stromal tumor, GIST) diagnosed in 2006-2011. Logistic regression models were employed to compare outcomes on selected clinical indicators reflecting prevailing STS guidelines between high-volume (≥10 resections annually) and low-volume (<10 resections) hospitals, between academic and general hospitals, and between sarcoma research centers and other hospitals, adjusted for case mix. Analyses were performed on imputed datasets (m = 50), generated through multiple imputations by chained equations. RESULTS Overall, 89% of patients underwent surgical resection. Resection status remained unknown in 24% (excluding those with metastasized disease), and grade was not documented for one-third of tumors. Microscopic residual disease was detected in 20% with an increased risk for older patients, larger and deeply located tumors, and those located in the (retro)peritoneum or upper extremity. Almost half of patients with an R1 resection received adjuvant radiotherapy. Following adjustment for case mix factors, patients treated in high-volume hospitals less often had macroscopic residual disease (R2 resection; adjusted odds ratio: 0.54). A strongly skewed distribution of surgical volumes was observed. CONCLUSIONS These survey results indicate a potential for improving Dutch STS care. More centralized sarcoma management should improve definitive pathology reporting on tumor characteristics, adherence to treatment guidelines and overall disease outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald J Hoekstra
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Rick L M Haas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Verhoef
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Albert J H Suurmeijer
- Department of Pathology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Carla S P van Rijswijk
- Department of Radiology, University of Leiden, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ben G H Bongers
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Vincent K Y Ho
- Department of Research, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Dyrop HB, Vedsted P, Rædkjær M, Safwat A, Keller J. Imaging investigations before referral to a sarcoma center delay the final diagnosis of musculoskeletal sarcoma. Acta Orthop 2017; 88:211-216. [PMID: 28077058 PMCID: PMC5385118 DOI: 10.1080/17453674.2016.1278113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose - The use of point-of-care or local investigations before referral to specialist sarcoma centers as part of a fast-track diagnostic pathway varies, and may affect the time to diagnosis. We wanted to investigate differences in time intervals and proportion of malignancy in patients who were referred after initial diagnostic investigations were performed locally and in patients who were referred without these investigations. Patients and methods - We included 545 consecutive patients who were referred to Aarhus Sarcoma Center for suspected musculoskeletal sarcoma. Data on time intervals and investigations performed were collected from questionnaires and patient records. Patients who were referred from outside Aarhus uptake area after initial MRI/CT or histology performed locally were compared with patients who were referred from Aarhus uptake area without these investigations. Results - The median total interval from first symptom to diagnosis was 166 days for outside patients referred with MRI/CT or histology, which was 91 (95% CI: 76-106) days longer than for local patients who were referred without MRI/CT or histology. Comparing the same groups, the median diagnostic interval was 41 (95% CI: 30-51) days longer for outside patients including both primary care and hospital intervals. Both the proportion of malignancies (38% vs. 14%) and the proportion of sarcomas (24% vs. 7%) were higher in the outside group referred with MRI/CT or histology than in the local group without MRI/CT or histology. Interpretation - Pre-referral investigations at a local hospital increased the diagnostic interval by at least 1 month for 50% of the patients, and the proportion of malignancy was more than doubled-to almost 40%. If investigations are to be performed before referral to a sarcoma center, they should be part of the fast-track pathway in order to ensure timely diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Buvarp Dyrop
- Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital;,Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Correspondence:
| | - Peter Vedsted
- The Research Unit for General Practice, Research Center for Cancer Diagnosis, Aarhus University
| | - Mathias Rædkjær
- Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital;,Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Tabacchi E, Fanti S, Nanni C. The Possible Role of PET Imaging Toward Individualized Management of Bone and Soft Tissue Malignancies. PET Clin 2016; 11:285-96. [PMID: 27321032 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpet.2016.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This article presents fluorodeoxyglucose PET/computed tomography for the evaluation of soft tissue sarcomas. Its clinical impact is discussed analyzing all the clinical information provided when applied in different phases of the disease. A special paragraph is dedicated to the use of functional imaging for driving the biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Tabacchi
- Nuclear Medicine, AOU di Bologna Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Stefano Fanti
- Nuclear Medicine, AOU di Bologna Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Cristina Nanni
- Nuclear Medicine, AOU di Bologna Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Italy.
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21
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Dyrop HB, Safwat A, Vedsted P, Maretty-Kongstad K, Hansen BH, Jørgensen PH, Baad-Hansen T, Keller J. Characteristics of 64 sarcoma patients referred to a sarcoma center after unplanned excision. J Surg Oncol 2016; 113:235-9. [PMID: 26776152 DOI: 10.1002/jso.24137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND METHODS Unplanned excision of sarcoma before referral to specialist centers can affect prognosis and surgical outcome. The diagnostic pathway of these patients is uncertain and needs to be reviewed. We aimed to describe patient and tumor characteristics, initial symptoms, initial and final diagnosis, and explore reasons for unplanned excision in this patient group. From a previous study on 258 sarcoma patients, we identified 64 patients referred after surgery. Medical records were reviewed. RESULTS The majority were soft tissue sarcomas, most often with thoracic location. Leiomyosarcoma was the most frequent final diagnosis, lipoma, and fibroma/dermatofibroma the most frequent initial diagnoses. Fifty percent were superficial small tumors, and 60.9% had not received diagnostic imaging before surgery. Fifty percent were referred from public surgical departments, and 1/3 from private specialists. Twenty-three patients had initial presence of alarm symptoms registered before surgery, the remaining 2/3 fell outside referral criteria or alarm symptoms were not discovered. CONCLUSIONS Patients referred after unplanned excision often have small superficial tumors and the majority fall outside of defined referral criteria. Referral criteria are not a guarantee for detection of all sarcomas and surgeons should always be aware of the possibility of malignancy when removing a tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Buvarp Dyrop
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark.,Department of Orthopedics, Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Akmal Safwat
- Department of Oncology, Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Peter Vedsted
- The Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Katja Maretty-Kongstad
- Department of Pathology, Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Bjarne Hauge Hansen
- Department of Orthopedics, Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas Baad-Hansen
- Department of Orthopedics, Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Johnny Keller
- Department of Orthopedics, Sarcoma Center of Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
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22
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Centralization of the management of sarcoma? Probably yes, but not only for surgical practice. J Visc Surg 2015; 152:207-9. [PMID: 26320852 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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23
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Nystrom LM, Reimer NB, Dean CW, Bush CH, Scarborough MT, Gibbs CP. Evaluation of imaging utilization prior to referral of musculoskeletal tumors: a prospective study. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2015; 97:10-5. [PMID: 25568389 PMCID: PMC6948782 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.n.00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Imaging studies are essential when evaluating a patient with a musculoskeletal neoplasm, and they represent a potential waste of resources when used inappropriately. The objective of this study was to prospectively evaluate a consecutive series of patients for inappropriate utilization of imaging prior to referral to a tertiary care facility. Our hypothesis was that advanced imaging is overutilized prior to referral of musculoskeletal neoplasms to a tertiary care center. METHODS All new patients referred for evaluation of a musculoskeletal neoplasm were prospectively analyzed over a three-month time period. All pre-referral imaging studies were recorded, including radiographs, computed tomographic scans, magnetic resonance imaging scans, bone scans, and 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scans. Studies were reviewed by two musculoskeletal radiologists and two orthopaedic oncologists and were defined with use of specific preselected criteria as inappropriate if they were not indicated for diagnosis or treatment, if they required repeating because of excessive time since the study was obtained, or if they had poor image quality or technique. RESULTS We evaluated 298 consecutive patients (550 imaging studies). The inappropriate utilization rate was 1.5% (three of 204) for radiographs, 36.5% (twenty-three of sixty-three) for computed tomographic scans, 26.7% (fifty-six of 210) for magnetic resonance imaging scans, 45.1% (twenty-three of fifty-one) bone scans, and 45.5% (ten of twenty-two) for positron emission tomography scans. The overall inappropriate use of advanced imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, bone scan, positron emission tomography) was 32.4% (112 of 346 images). With regard to inappropriate use of magnetic resonance imaging, there was no difference between orthopaedic surgeons (28.2%) and primary care physicians (26.5%). CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate a high prevalence (32.4%) of inappropriate advanced imaging of musculoskeletal tumors prior to referral. This represents a substantial cost to the patient and health-care system, a potential delay of referral, an increase in radiation exposure, and identification of other incidental findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas M. Nystrom
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, 2160 South First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153. E-mail address:
| | - Nickolas B. Reimer
- Emory Orthopaedics and Spine Center, 59 Executive Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30329
| | - Cooper W. Dean
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida, PO Box 100374, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Charles H. Bush
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida, PO Box 100374, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Mark T. Scarborough
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, 3250 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32608
| | - C. Parker Gibbs
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, 3250 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32608
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Dyrop HB, Vedsted P, Safwat A, Maretty-Nielsen K, Hansen BH, Jørgensen PH, Baad-Hansen T, Keller J. Alarm symptoms of soft-tissue and bone sarcoma in patients referred to a specialist center. Acta Orthop 2014; 85:657-62. [PMID: 25175662 PMCID: PMC4259033 DOI: 10.3109/17453674.2014.957086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The Danish Cancer Patient Pathway for sarcoma defines a set of alarm symptoms as criteria for referral to a sarcoma center. This may exclude cancer patients without alarm symptoms, so we investigated the presence of alarm symptoms (defined as being indicative of a sarcoma) in patients who had been referred to the Aarhus Sarcoma Center. PATIENTS AND METHODS We reviewed the medical records of all 1,126 patients who had been referred, with suspected sarcoma, from other hospitals in the period 2007-2010 for information on symptoms, clinical findings, and diagnosis. Alarm symptoms were analyzed for predictive values in diagnosing sarcoma. RESULTS 179 (69%) of 258 sarcoma patients were referred with alarm symptoms (soft-tissue tumor>5 cm or deep-seated, fast-growing soft-tissue tumor, palpable bone tumor, or deep persisting bone pain). The remaining 79 sarcomas were found accidentally. "Size over 5 cm" for soft-tissue tumors, and "deep persisting bone pain" for bone tumors had the highest sensitivity and positive predictive value. Of the 79 sarcoma patients who were referred without alarm symptoms, 7 were found accidentally on imaging, 5 were referred with suspected recurrence of a sarcoma, 64 were referred with a confirmed histological diagnosis, and 3 were referred for other reasons. INTERPRETATION Defined alarm symptoms are predictive of sarcoma, but one-third of the patients were found accidentally. Further studies on presenting symptoms in primary care are needed to assess the true value of alarm symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi B Dyrop
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital,Aarhus Sarcoma Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Vedsted
- The Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University
| | - Akmal Safwat
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital,Aarhus Sarcoma Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katja Maretty-Nielsen
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital,Aarhus Sarcoma Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bjarne H Hansen
- Aarhus Sarcoma Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | - Johnny Keller
- Aarhus Sarcoma Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Abstract
It was estimated that more than 3000 people would be diagnosed with a primary bone or joint malignancy and more than 11,000 people would be diagnosed with a soft tissue sarcoma in 2013. Although primary bone and soft tissue tumors of the upper extremity are infrequent, it is imperative that the clinician be familiar with a systematic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions to prevent inadvertently compromising patient outcome. With advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, tumor imaging, and surgical reconstructive options, limb salvage surgery is estimated to be feasible in 95% of extremity bone or soft tissue sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C Wong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut Street, Room 516, College Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - John A Abraham
- The Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, 925 Chestnut Street, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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26
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Styring E, Hartman L, Nilbert M, Rissler P, Rydholm A, von Steyern FV. Small soft tissue sarcomas do metastasize: identification of high-risk tumors. Ann Surg Oncol 2014; 21:4020-5. [PMID: 24903235 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-014-3806-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small (≤ 5 cm) soft tissue sarcomas (STS) of the extremities and the trunk wall generally have a favorable prognosis. However, 1 of 10 patients do develop metastases, and we therefore aimed to determine predictors of metastasis in a population-based cohort of patients with small STSs. PATIENTS AND METHODS In the southern Sweden health care region, 848 adult patients with STS of the extremities or the trunk wall were diagnosed between 1986 and 2010. Of these, 243 STS (29 %) were ≤5 cm. Prognostic evaluation was performed in 229 patients with localized disease at diagnosis, 181 of whom had histologic high-grade tumors. RESULTS None of the 48 patients with low-grade tumors developed metastases, whereas 24 of 181 patients with high-grade tumors (13 %) tumors did. Presence of either tumor necrosis or vascular invasion predicted development of metastases with a hazard ratio of 2.9 (95 % CI, 1.0-7.9), and tumors with both factors had a hazard ratio of 12 (95 % CI, 4.1-37) for metastasis (adjusted for size). CONCLUSIONS Our population-based series of STSs ≤5 cm demonstrate an overall good prognosis with metastases developing in 13 % of the patients with high-grade tumors. Tumor necrosis and vascular invasion were the major predictors of metastatic disease in this subset. Tumors with both these risk factors metastasized in 8 of 18 patients, which corresponds to a 12-fold increased risk of metastasis. These findings suggest that although small STS generally are linked to a good prognosis, necrosis and vascular invasion are features indicating biologically aggressive tumors for which treatment and surveillance should equal that for larger tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emelie Styring
- Department of Orthopedics, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden,
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Dyrop HB, Safwat A, Vedsted P, Maretty-Nielsen K, Hansen BH, Jørgensen PH, Baad-Hansen T, Bünger C, Keller J. Cancer Patient Pathways shortens waiting times and accelerates the diagnostic process of suspected sarcoma patients in Denmark. Health Policy 2013; 113:110-7. [PMID: 24138955 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2013.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cancer Patient Pathways (CPPs) for suspected cancer were implemented in Denmark to reduce waiting times for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our study describes developments in time intervals and tumour size in a natural experiment before and after implementation of the CPP for sarcomas (January 1st, 2009). Medical files for patients referred with suspected sarcoma from other hospitals to Aarhus Sarcoma Centre during 2007-2010 (n=1126) were reviewed for data on milestones, time intervals, performed diagnostics, and tumour size. Results showed a statistically significant reduction in median number of work days in the phase "referral to first appointment" for all patients. For bone sarcomas, median time was significantly reduced from 11 to five work days in the phase "first appointment to decision of treatment", for soft tissue sarcomas it was reduced from 28 to 18 work days in the phase "referral to start of treatment". Passive waiting time was reduced, and delays in the fast-track programme were caused mostly by supplementary diagnostics. Median tumour size for soft tissue sarcomas was reduced from 7.0 to 4.9cm, possibly a secondary effect of increased awareness. CPPs have accelerated the diagnostic process for sarcomas, and our results may aid international development of similar initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Buvarp Dyrop
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Norrebrogade 44, Bldg. 5, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; Sarcoma Centre of Aarhus University Hospital, Norrebrogade 44, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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Multidisciplinary management of soft tissue sarcoma. ScientificWorldJournal 2013; 2013:852462. [PMID: 23983648 PMCID: PMC3745982 DOI: 10.1155/2013/852462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare malignancy, with approximately 11,000 cases per year encountered in the United States. It is primarily encountered in adults but can affect patients of any age. There are many histologic subtypes and the malignancy can be low or high grade. Appropriate staging work up includes a physical exam, advanced imaging, and a carefully planned biopsy. This information is then used to guide the discussion of definitive treatment of the tumor which typically involves surgical resection with a negative margin in addition to neoadjuvant or adjuvant external beam radiation. Advances in imaging and radiation therapy have made limb salvage surgery the standard of care, with local control rates greater than 90% in most modern series. Currently, the role of chemotherapy is not well defined and this treatment is typically reserved for patients with metastatic or recurrent disease and for certain histologic subtypes. The goal of this paper is to review the current state of the art in multidisciplinary management of soft tissue sarcoma.
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Unplanned excision of soft tissue sarcoma: The impact of the referring hospital. Surg Oncol 2013; 22:e17-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.suronc.2013.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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