1
|
Fletcher S, Jenner K, Holland M, Khair K. Barriers to gene therapy, understanding the concerns people with haemophilia have: an exigency sub-study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:59. [PMID: 38341591 PMCID: PMC10859013 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene therapy has the potential to offer people with haemophilia (PwH) a life free from bleeding and the burden posed by current treatment regimens. To date, gene therapy has only been available in clinical trial settings, to PwH without pre-existing or historical factor inhibitors, significant concomitant liver damage or pre-existing neutralising antibodies to the adeno-associated viruses used to deliver the therapy. Thus, most PwH treated at centres not currently involved in gene therapy trials, either as a referral/follow-up centre or as a dosing centre, have been unable to access the therapy. This Exigency sub-study aims to gain a greater understanding of the opinions of PwH in the United Kingdom who have not had access to gene therapy: asking what they understand, what concerns they have, and whether they perceive any barriers preventing their access to gene therapy. RESULTS Twenty-three PwH were approached; 14 consented, and one withdrew prior to interview. The mean age of the participants was 35.7 years (range 25-74 years). Eleven had haemophilia A and two haemophilia B. Two were treated with standard half-life factor products, five with extended half-life products, five with a FVIII mimetic and one with a clinical trial product. One family member (a participant's partner) was also interviewed. The participants identified four barriers to gene therapy: concerns about the process of gene therapy (Expectations), uncertainty about the results (outcomes), (Access) to treatment, and a lack of understanding about gene therapy (education). CONCLUSIONS This Exigency study subgroup sees gene therapy as a positive treatment development that promises an improved quality of life. For this participant group, four issues impact their decision to undergo gene therapy. If the promise of gene therapy is to be realised, these barriers need to be acknowledged and addressed by healthcare professionals, patient organisations, and gene therapy providers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Fletcher
- Haemnet, London, N15 3JR, UK.
- Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 7LE, UK.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lissak IA, Edlow BL, Rosenthal E, Young MJ. Ethical Considerations in Neuroprognostication Following Acute Brain Injury. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:758-767. [PMID: 37802121 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1775597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Neuroprognostication following acute brain injury (ABI) is a complex process that involves integrating vast amounts of information to predict a patient's likely trajectory of neurologic recovery. In this setting, critically evaluating salient ethical questions is imperative, and the implications often inform high-stakes conversations about the continuation, limitation, or withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy. While neuroprognostication is central to these clinical "life-or-death" decisions, the ethical underpinnings of neuroprognostication itself have been underexplored for patients with ABI. In this article, we discuss the ethical challenges of individualized neuroprognostication including parsing and communicating its inherent uncertainty to surrogate decision-makers. We also explore the population-based ethical considerations that arise in the context of heterogenous prognostication practices. Finally, we examine the emergence of artificial intelligence-aided neuroprognostication, proposing an ethical framework relevant to both modern and longstanding prognostic tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- India A Lissak
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Brian L Edlow
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts
| | - Eric Rosenthal
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michael J Young
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhu M, Dong D, Lo HHM, Wong SYS, Mo PKH, Sit RWS. Patient preferences in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review of discrete choice experiments. Pain 2023; 164:675-689. [PMID: 36149784 PMCID: PMC10026832 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002775] [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: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) is a preference-sensitive condition for which numerous treatment options are available, each with benefits and risks. Thus, patient preferences play a critical role in decision making. This study summarized evidence from discrete choice experiments (DCEs) to quantify patient preferences for CMP treatment and identified important treatment attributes. A systematic review of DCEs on patient preferences for CMP treatment was conducted. Studies were included if they used DCE to determine patient preferences for CMP. A previously described methodological assessment tool was used to assess the risk of bias. The treatment attributes were summarized and sorted according to the frequency of citation and relative weight. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the intervention-specific attributes. A total of 15 eligible studies with 4065 participants were included. We identified "capacity to realize daily life activities," "risk of adverse events," "effectiveness in pain reduction," and "out-of-pocket cost" as important attributes. Although "treatment frequency" and "onset of treatment efficacy" were less frequently mentioned, they were also important attributes. The attribute of "risk of adverse events" was especially important for drug treatment. The "out-of-pocket cost" and "treatment location and mode" were important attributes of exercise therapy. The attributes identified in this review will inform the design of future DCE studies, facilitate the translation of measurement-based care to value-based care, and provide the rationale to promote shared decision making and patient-centered care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Zhu
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dong Dong
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hermione Hin-Man Lo
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Samuel Yeung-Shan Wong
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Phoenix Kit-Han Mo
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Regina Wing-Shan Sit
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bridges JFP, de Bekker-Grob EW, Hauber B, Heidenreich S, Janssen E, Bast A, Hanmer J, Danyliv A, Low E, Bouvy JC, Marshall DA. A Roadmap for Increasing the Usefulness and Impact of Patient-Preference Studies in Decision Making in Health: A Good Practices Report of an ISPOR Task Force. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2023; 26:153-162. [PMID: 36754539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Many qualitative and quantitative methods are readily available to study patient preferences in health. These methods are now being used to inform a wide variety of decisions, and there is a growing body of evidence showing studies of patient preferences can be used for decision making in a wide variety of contexts. This ISPOR Task Force report synthesizes current good practices for increasing the usefulness and impact of patient-preference studies in decision making. We provide the ISPOR Roadmap for Patient Preferences in Decision Making that invites patient-preference researchers to work with decision makers, patients and patient groups, and other stakeholders to ensure that studies are useful and impactful. The ISPOR Roadmap consists of 5 key elements: (1) context, (2) purpose, (3) population, (4) method, and (5) impact. In this report, we define these 5 elements and provide good practices on how patient-preference researchers and others can actively contribute to increasing the usefulness and impact of patient-preference studies in decision making. We also present a set of key questions that can support researchers and other stakeholders (eg, funders, reviewers, readers) to assess efforts that promote the ongoing impact (both intended and unintended) of a particular preference study and additional studies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F P Bridges
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Ellen Janssen
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | | | | | - Eric Low
- Eric Low Consulting, Haddington, Scotland, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
van der Horst DEM, Garvelink MM, Bos WJW, Stiggelbout AM, Pieterse AH. For which decisions is Shared Decision Making considered appropriate? - A systematic review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 106:3-16. [PMID: 36220675 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify decision characteristics for which SDM authors deem SDM appropriate or not, and what arguments are used. METHODS We applied two search strategies: we included SDM models from an earlier review (strategy 1) and conducted a new search in eight databases to include papers other than describing an SDM model, such as original research, opinion papers and reviews (strategy 2). RESULTS From the 92 included papers, we identified 18 decision characteristics for which authors deemed SDM appropriate, including preference-sensitive, equipoise and decisions where patient commitment is needed in implementing the decision. SDM authors indicated limits to SDM, especially when there are immediate life-saving measures needed. We identified four decision characteristics on which authors of different papers disagreed on whether or not SDM is appropriate. CONCLUSION The findings of this review show the broad range of decision characteristics for which authors deem SDM appropriate, the ambiguity of some, and potential limits of SDM. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The findings can stimulate clinicians to (re)consider pursuing SDM in situations in which they did not before. Additionally, it can inform SDM campaigns and educational programs as it shows for which decision situations SDM might be more or less challenging to practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorinde E M van der Horst
- St. Antonius Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands; Santeon, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Mirjam M Garvelink
- St. Antonius Hospital, Department of Value Based Healthcare, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
| | - Willem Jan W Bos
- St. Antonius Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anne M Stiggelbout
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands; Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arwen H Pieterse
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu YQ, Guo YL, Xu J, Geng WJ, Li ZZ, Jia M, Liu YD, Zhao H. Shared Decision-Making in Hemophilic Arthropathy Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:249-257. [PMID: 36721389 PMCID: PMC9884430 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s394095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To probe into the needs and barriers underlying patients' participation in shared decision-making related to rehabilitation nursing for hemophilic arthropathy. PATIENTS AND METHODS The phenomenological research approach was adopted to conduct a series of semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 15 patients with hemophilic arthropathy undergoing rehabilitative treatments, 10 caregivers, and 7 healthcare providers from a hemophilia treatment center in Shanxi province, China. Colaizzi's seven-step method of data analysis was applied to organize, analyze, and extract the themes from the interview materials. RESULTS Three main themes emerged from the analysis: the status quo of the healthcare system (insufficient decision support systems and mismatch between healthcare providers' and patients' resources), circumstances of provider-patient interactions (lack of information exchange and unbalanced power structure between healthcare providers and patients), and patient-related factors influencing participation in decision-making (lack of self-efficacy, personal characteristics, family and social decision support, and attitude toward participation in decision-making). CONCLUSION Participation in rehabilitation decision-making among patients with hemophilic arthropathy is affected by multiple barriers. Healthcare professionals should improve their understanding of shared decision-making, offer patients active guidance on participating in the decision-making process, prioritize their affective needs, and formulate professional and effective solutions to support shared decision-making as early as possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Qiu Liu
- College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Lin Guo
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jing Geng
- College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Li
- Department of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Jia
- College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Dan Liu
- College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhao
- College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hua Zhao, College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 13903465019, Email
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
van der Velden NC, van Laarhoven HW, Nieuwkerk PT, Kuijper SC, Sommeijer DW, Ottevanger PB, Fiebrich HB, Dohmen SE, Creemers GJ, de Vos FY, Smets EM, Henselmans I. Attitudes Toward Striving for Quality and Length of Life Among Patients With Advanced Cancer and a Poor Prognosis. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e1818-e1830. [DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE: When deliberating palliative cancer treatment, insight into patients' attitudes toward striving for quality of life (QL) and length of life (LL) may facilitate goal-concordant care. We investigated the (1) attitudes of patients with advanced cancer toward striving for QL and/or LL and whether these change over time, and (2) characteristics associated with these attitudes (over time). METHODS: We performed a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial on improving shared decision making (SDM), without differentiation between intervention arms. Patients (n = 173) with advanced cancer, a median life expectancy of < 12 months without anticancer treatment, and a median survival benefit of < 6 months from systemic therapy were included in seven Dutch hospitals. We used audio-recorded consultations and surveys at baseline (T0), shortly after the consultation (T2), at 3 and 6 months (T3 and T4). Primary outcomes were patients' attitudes toward striving for QL and LL (Quality Quantity Questionnaire; T2, T3, and T4). RESULTS: Overall, patients' attitudes toward striving for QL became less positive over 6 months ( P < .01); attitudes toward striving for LL did not change on group level. Studying individual patients, 76% showed changes in their attitudes toward striving for QL and/or LL at some point during the study, which occurred in various directions. More helplessness/hopelessness ( P < .001), less fighting spirit ( P < .05), less state anxiety ( P < .001), and more observed SDM ( P < .05) related to more positive attitudes toward striving for QL. Lower education, less helplessness/hopelessness, more fighting spirit, and more state anxiety ( P < .001) related to more positive attitudes toward striving for LL. CONCLUSION: Oncologists may explore patients' attitudes toward striving for QL and LL repeatedly and address patients' coping style and emotions during SDM to facilitate goal-concordant care throughout the last phase of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C.A. van der Velden
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W.M. van Laarhoven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pythia T. Nieuwkerk
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Steven C. Kuijper
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dirkje W. Sommeijer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Flevoziekenhuis, Almere, the Netherlands
| | - Petronella B. Ottevanger
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Serge E. Dohmen
- Department of Medical Oncology, BovenIJ Ziekenhuis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geert-Jan Creemers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catharina Ziekenhuis, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Filip Y.F.L. de Vos
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen M.A. Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
How to make big decisions: A cross-sectional study on the decision making process in life choices. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-02792-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPeople often make life choices that will affect their future (e.g. getting married). However, research on decision making focuses more on abstract dilemmas than on decision making. The aim of this study is threefold: to analyze (1) whether people rely mainly on intuitive or rational processing (System 1 or 2) when making life choices; (2) whether some characteristics of recalled life choices (e.g., difficulty in making the decision) differ between life areas (sentimental and work contexts); (3) whether personality traits and System 1 or 2 utilization may predict final satisfaction in life choices. By conducting a cross-sectional study on 188 participants’ recall of selected life decisions (in the sentimental and work life areas) we found that System 1 is more involved than System 2 in sentimental choices while the opposite happens for work ones. Lastly, satisfaction in life choices is partially predicted by the involvement of cognitive systems and individual differences, with different predictors emerging across life areas. Discussion suggests directions for future research on naturalistic decision making.
Collapse
|
9
|
Aljaffary A, Alsheddi F, Alzahrani R, Alamoudi S, Aljuwair M, Alrawiai S, Aljabri D, Althumairi A, Hariri B, Alumran A. Shared Decision-Making: A Cross-Sectional Study Assessing Patients Awareness and Preferences in Saudi Arabia. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:1005-1015. [PMID: 35444407 PMCID: PMC9013678 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s332638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Shared decision-making (SDM) has become broadly accepted during the consultation, especially when there are many options of treatment. This study aims to assess patients' levels of awareness and preferences of SDM in Saudi Arabia. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study targeting patients in Saudi Arabia. Two validated questionnaires were used, the first validated questionnaire focuses on measuring knowledge, attitude and experiences of shared-decision making. The second questionnaire is the the Autonomy-Preference-Index focusing on patients' preferences for being involved in SDM. Relevant items to the study aim were chosen and translated into Arabic. Psychometric testing was conducted for Arabic and English versions and tested for content and face validity. The questionnaire administered online via social media channels, between February 2021 and May 2021. A total of 411 respondents completed the questionnaire. RESULTS The findings showed a positive association between awareness and preferences of SDM among patients in Saudi Arabia. In the awareness of the SDM domain, females reported higher scores than male participants (t = -4.504, P < 0.001). Saudis reported higher scores in their awareness of SDM than non-Saudis (t = 2.569, P = 0.011). Participants without health insurance reported higher scores in their awareness of SDM than those insured (t = -2.130, P = 0.034). Participants with degree have higher knowledge levels than participants with no degree (f = 10.034, P < 0.001). Females reported higher scores in their preferences of SDM than the male (t = -2.099, P = 0.036). Participants who visited private health-care settings in their last clinical encounter reported higher preferences of SDM than participants who received care in other settings (f = 2.653, P = 0.048). CONCLUSION The study concludes that the more aware a patient is, the more likely they prefer SDM practice. This finding can support health-care policymakers in developing SDM policies that enhance patient-centered care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Afnan Aljaffary
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Afnan Aljaffary, Email
| | - Fatimah Alsheddi
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad Alzahrani
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Somayyah Alamoudi
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Aljuwair
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sumaiah Alrawiai
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Duaa Aljabri
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Althumairi
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bayan Hariri
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Alumran
- Department of Health Information Management & Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lynøe N, Engström I, Juth N. How to reveal disguised paternalism: version 2.0. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:170. [PMID: 34961487 PMCID: PMC8712205 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00739-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We aim to further develop an index for detecting disguised paternalism, which might influence physicians’ evaluations of whether or not a patient is decision-competent at the end of life. Disguised paternalism can be actualized when physicians transform hard paternalism into soft paternalism by questioning the patient’s decision-making competence.
Methods A previously presented index, based on a cross-sectional study, was further developed to make it possible to distinguish between high and low degrees of disguised paternalism using the average index of the whole sample. We recalculated the results from a 2007 study for comparison to a new study conducted in 2020. Both studies are about physicians’ attitudes towards, and arguments for or against, physician-assisted suicide.
Results The 2020 study showed that geriatricians, palliativists, and middle-aged physicians (46–60 years old) had indices indicating disguised paternalism, in contrast with the results from the 2007 study, which showed that all specialties (apart from GPs and surgeons) had indices indicating high degrees of disguised paternalism. Conclusions The proposed index for identifying disguised paternalism reflects the attitude of a group towards physician assisted suicide. The indices make it possible to compare the various medical specialties and age groups from the 2007 study with the 2020 study. Because disguised paternalism might have clinical consequences for the rights of competent patients to participate in decision-making, it is important to reveal disguised hard paternalism, which could masquerade as soft paternalism and thereby manifest in practice. Methods for improving measures of disguised paternalism are worthy of further development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niels Lynøe
- Centre for Healthcare Ethics, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ingemar Engström
- University Health Care Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Niklas Juth
- Centre for Healthcare Ethics, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen MM, Mott NM, Miller J, Kazemi R, Stover M, Graboyes EM, Divi V, Malloy KM, Wallner LP, Pitt SC, Dossett LA. Clinician Attitudes and Beliefs About Deintensifying Head and Neck Cancer Surveillance. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 148:43-51. [PMID: 34734995 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2021.2824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Importance Surveillance imaging and visits are costly and have not been shown to improve oncologic outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). However, the benefit of surveillance visits may extend beyond recurrence detection. To better understand surveillance and potentially develop protocols to tailor current surveillance paradigms, it is important to elicit the perspectives of the clinicians who care for patients with HNC. Objective To characterize current surveillance practices and explore clinician attitudes and beliefs on deintensifying surveillance for patients with HNC. Design, Setting, and Participants This qualitative study was performed from January to March 2021. Guided by an interpretive description approach, interviews were analyzed to produce a thematic description. Data analysis was performed from March to April 2021. Otolaryngologists and radiation oncologists were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling strategies. Main Outcomes and Measures The main outcomes were current practice, attitudes, and beliefs about deintensifying surveillance and survivorship as well as patients' values and perspectives collected from interviews of participating physicians. Results Twenty-one physicians (17 [81%] men) were interviewed, including 13 otolaryngologists and 8 radiation oncologists with a median of 8 years (IQR, 5-20 years) in practice. Twelve participants (57%) stated their practice comprised more than 75% of patients with HNC. Participants expressed that there was substantial variation in the interpretation of the surveillance guidelines. Participants were open to the potential for deintensification of surveillance or incorporating symptom-based surveillance protocols but had concerns that deintensification may increase patient anxiety and shift some of the burden of recurrence monitoring to patients. Patient and physician peace of mind, the importance of maintaining the patient-physician relationship, and the need for adequate survivorship and management of treatment-associated toxic effects were reported to be important barriers to deintensifying surveillance. Conclusions and Relevance In this qualitative study, clinicians revealed a willingness to consider altering cancer surveillance but expressed a need to maintain patient and clinician peace of mind, maintain the patient-clinician relationship, and ensure adequate monitoring of treatment-associated toxic effects and other survivorship concerns. These findings may be useful in future research on the management of posttreatment surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Jacquelyn Miller
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Ruby Kazemi
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Evan M Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Vasu Divi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Kelly M Malloy
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Lauren P Wallner
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Susan C Pitt
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Podda M, Sylla P, Baiocchi G, Adamina M, Agnoletti V, Agresta F, Ansaloni L, Arezzo A, Avenia N, Biffl W, Biondi A, Bui S, Campanile FC, Carcoforo P, Commisso C, Crucitti A, De'Angelis N, De'Angelis GL, De Filippo M, De Simone B, Di Saverio S, Ercolani G, Fraga GP, Gabrielli F, Gaiani F, Guerrieri M, Guttadauro A, Kluger Y, Leppaniemi AK, Loffredo A, Meschi T, Moore EE, Ortenzi M, Pata F, Parini D, Pisanu A, Poggioli G, Polistena A, Puzziello A, Rondelli F, Sartelli M, Smart N, Sugrue ME, Tejedor P, Vacante M, Coccolini F, Davies J, Catena F. Multidisciplinary management of elderly patients with rectal cancer: recommendations from the SICG (Italian Society of Geriatric Surgery), SIFIPAC (Italian Society of Surgical Pathophysiology), SICE (Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery and new technologies), and the WSES (World Society of Emergency Surgery) International Consensus Project. World J Emerg Surg 2021; 16:35. [PMID: 34215310 PMCID: PMC8254305 DOI: 10.1186/s13017-021-00378-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Although rectal cancer is predominantly a disease of older patients, current guidelines do not incorporate optimal treatment recommendations for the elderly and address only partially the associated specific challenges encountered in this population. This results in a wide variation and disparity in delivering a standard of care to this subset of patients. As the burden of rectal cancer in the elderly population continues to increase, it is crucial to assess whether current recommendations on treatment strategies for the general population can be adopted for the older adults, with the same beneficial oncological and functional outcomes. This multidisciplinary experts' consensus aims to refine current rectal cancer-specific guidelines for the elderly population in order to help to maximize rectal cancer therapeutic strategies while minimizing adverse impacts on functional outcomes and quality of life for these patients. METHODS The discussion among the steering group of clinical experts and methodologists from the societies' expert panel involved clinicians practicing in general surgery, colorectal surgery, surgical oncology, geriatric oncology, geriatrics, gastroenterologists, radiologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and endoscopists. Research topics and questions were formulated, revised, and unanimously approved by all experts in two subsequent modified Delphi rounds in December 2020-January 2021. The steering committee was divided into nine teams following the main research field of members. Each conducted their literature search and drafted statements and recommendations on their research question. Literature search has been updated up to 2020 and statements and recommendations have been developed according to the GRADE methodology. A modified Delphi methodology was implemented to reach agreement among the experts on all statements and recommendations. CONCLUSIONS The 2021 SICG-SIFIPAC-SICE-WSES consensus for the multidisciplinary management of elderly patients with rectal cancer aims to provide updated evidence-based statements and recommendations on each of the following topics: epidemiology, pre-intervention strategies, diagnosis and staging, neoadjuvant chemoradiation, surgery, watch and wait strategy, adjuvant chemotherapy, synchronous liver metastases, and emergency presentation of rectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Podda
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Cagliari University Hospital "D. Casula", Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Patricia Sylla
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gianluca Baiocchi
- ASST Cremona, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michel Adamina
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Winterthur, Winterthur - University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Ferdinando Agresta
- Department of General Surgery, Vittorio Veneto Hospital, AULSS2 Trevigiana del Veneto, Vittorio Veneto, Italy
| | - Luca Ansaloni
- 1st General Surgery Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alberto Arezzo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Nicola Avenia
- SC Chirurgia Generale e Specialità Chirurgiche Azienda Ospedaliera Santa Maria, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Terni, Italy
| | - Walter Biffl
- Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Antonio Biondi
- Department of General Surgery and Medical - Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Bui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Fabio C Campanile
- Department of Surgery, ASL VT - Ospedale "San Giovanni Decollato - Andosilla", Civita Castellana, Italy
| | - Paolo Carcoforo
- Department of Surgery, Unit of General Surgery, University Hospital of Ferrara, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudia Commisso
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Antonio Crucitti
- General and Minimally Invasive Surgery Unit, Cristo Re Hospital and Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola De'Angelis
- Unit of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Digestive Surgery, Regional General Hospital F. Miulli, Acquaviva delle Fonti, Bari, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi De'Angelis
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Belinda De Simone
- Department of General and Metabolic Surgery, Poissy and Saint Germain en Laye Hospitals, Poissy, France
| | | | - Giorgio Ercolani
- General and Oncologic Surgery, Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Forlì, Italy
| | - Gustavo P Fraga
- Division of Trauma Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Federica Gaiani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Yoram Kluger
- Division of General Surgery, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ari K Leppaniemi
- Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Andrea Loffredo
- UOC Chirurgia Generale - AOU san Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona, Università di Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Tiziana Meschi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Parma University Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Ernest E Moore
- Ernest E Moore Shock Trauma Center at Denver Health, Denver, USA
| | | | | | - Dario Parini
- Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | - Adolfo Pisanu
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Cagliari University Hospital "D. Casula", Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gilberto Poggioli
- Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, Sant'Orsola Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Polistena
- Dipartimento di Chirurgia Pietro Valdoni Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza Università degli Studi di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Puzziello
- UOC Chirurgia Generale - AOU san Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona, Università di Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Fabio Rondelli
- SC Chirurgia Generale e Specialità Chirurgiche Azienda Ospedaliera Santa Maria, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Terni, Italy
| | | | | | - Michael E Sugrue
- Letterkenny University Hospital and CPM sEUBP Interreg Project, Letterkenny, Ireland
| | | | - Marco Vacante
- Department of General Surgery and Medical - Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federico Coccolini
- General, Emergency and Trauma Surgery Department, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Justin Davies
- Cambridge Colorectal Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Fausto Catena
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Parma Maggiore Hospital, Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Glavin R, Ness RO, Nguyen A. Hypothyroidism - A Causal Approach to Testing Assumptions against Empirical Results. AMIA JOINT SUMMITS ON TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE PROCEEDINGS. AMIA JOINT SUMMITS ON TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 2021:257-266. [PMID: 34457140 PMCID: PMC8378658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is a controversy in the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism. We propose the disagreement is fueled by statistical paradoxes, and sampling biases that provide different perspectives depending upon the sample selection criteria. The statistical inconsistencies become more apparent when viewed using a causal lens. Foundational hypothyroid research does not reflect the current Levothyroxine treated population. Exploration of empirical data demonstrates an apparent breakdown of the T4 to T3 causal pathway in the treated population. This use case demonstrates the difficulty of translating controlled research into clinical practices for patients with multiple comorbid conditions. We make the case for redundancy in data collection, ongoing attempts to falsify current assumptions and the need for causal approaches to validate the results of controlled research in clinical settings, in order to avoid confirmation bias from statistically insufficient biometrics.
Collapse
|
14
|
Durosini I, Janssens R, Arnou R, Veldwijk J, Smith MY, Monzani D, Smith I, Galli G, Garassino M, Katz EG, Bailo L, Louis E, Vandevelde M, Nackaerts K, de Wit GA, Pravettoni G, Huys I. Patient Preferences for Lung Cancer Treatment: A Qualitative Study Protocol Among Advanced Lung Cancer Patients. Front Public Health 2021; 9:622154. [PMID: 33634069 PMCID: PMC7900128 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.622154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Lung cancer is the deadliest and most prevalent cancer worldwide. Lung cancer treatments have different characteristics and are associated with a range of benefits and side effects for patients. Such differences may raise uncertainty among drug developers, regulators, payers, and clinicians regarding the value of these treatment effects to patients. The value of conducting patient preference studies (using qualitative and/or quantitative methods) for benefits and side effects of different treatment options has been recognized by healthcare stakeholders, such as drug developers, regulators, health technology assessment bodies, and clinicians. However, evidence-based guidelines on how and when to conduct and use these studies in drug decision-making are lacking. As part of the Innovative Medicines Initiative PREFER project, we developed a protocol for a qualitative study that aims to understand which treatment characteristics are most important to lung cancer patients and to develop attributes and levels for inclusion in a subsequent quantitative preference survey. Methods: The study protocol specifies a four-phased approach: (i) a scoping literature review of published literature, (ii) four focus group discussions with stage III and IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer patients, (iii) two nominal group discussions with stage III and IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer patients, and (iv) multi-stakeholder discussions involving clinicians and preference experts. Discussion: This protocol outlines methodological and practical steps as to how qualitative research can be applied to identify and develop attributes and levels for inclusion in patient preference studies aiming to inform decisions across the drug life cycle. The results of this study are intended to inform a subsequent quantitative preference survey that assesses patient trade-offs regarding lung cancer treatment options. This protocol may assist researchers, drug developers, and decision-makers in designing qualitative studies to understand which treatment aspects are most valued by patients in drug development, regulation, and reimbursement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Durosini
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosanne Janssens
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Reinhard Arnou
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jorien Veldwijk
- School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Meredith Y Smith
- Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., University of Southern California School of Pharmacy, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Dario Monzani
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ian Smith
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Giulia Galli
- Unit of Thoracic Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Garassino
- Unit of Thoracic Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Eva G Katz
- Janssen Research and Development, Raritan, NJ, United States
| | - Luca Bailo
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Evelyne Louis
- Department of Pneumology/Respiratory Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie Vandevelde
- Department of Pneumology/Respiratory Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristiaan Nackaerts
- Department of Pneumology/Respiratory Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - G Ardine de Wit
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Isabelle Huys
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Use of chemotherapy in elderly patients with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer. Lancet Oncol 2020; 21:1543-1545. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(20)30694-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
16
|
Garassino MC, Besse B, Torri V. To Continue or Not to Continue? That Is the Question. J Clin Oncol 2020; 38:3830-3832. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.02191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Chiara Garassino
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto Nazionale di Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Benjamin Besse
- Gustave Roussy, Villejuif; and Paris-Saclay University, Orsay, France
| | - Valter Torri
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche “Mario Negri”–Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
COVID-19 in patients with thoracic malignancies (TERAVOLT): first results of an international, registry-based, cohort study. Lancet Oncol 2020; 21:914-922. [PMID: 32539942 PMCID: PMC7292610 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(20)30314-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 440] [Impact Index Per Article: 110.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Early reports on patients with cancer and COVID-19 have suggested a high mortality rate compared with the general population. Patients with thoracic malignancies are thought to be particularly susceptible to COVID-19 given their older age, smoking habits, and pre-existing cardiopulmonary comorbidities, in addition to cancer treatments. We aimed to study the effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on patients with thoracic malignancies. Methods The Thoracic Cancers International COVID-19 Collaboration (TERAVOLT) registry is a multicentre observational study composed of a cross-sectional component and a longitudinal cohort component. Eligibility criteria were the presence of any thoracic cancer (non-small-cell lung cancer [NSCLC], small-cell lung cancer, mesothelioma, thymic epithelial tumours, and other pulmonary neuroendocrine neoplasms) and a COVID-19 diagnosis, either laboratory confirmed with RT-PCR, suspected with symptoms and contacts, or radiologically suspected cases with lung imaging features consistent with COVID-19 pneumonia and symptoms. Patients of any age, sex, histology, or stage were considered eligible, including those in active treatment and clinical follow-up. Clinical data were extracted from medical records of consecutive patients from Jan 1, 2020, and will be collected until the end of pandemic declared by WHO. Data on demographics, oncological history and comorbidities, COVID-19 diagnosis, and course of illness and clinical outcomes were collected. Associations between demographic or clinical characteristics and outcomes were measured with odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs using univariable and multivariable logistic regression, with sex, age, smoking status, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease included in multivariable analysis. This is a preliminary analysis of the first 200 patients. The registry continues to accept new sites and patient data. Findings Between March 26 and April 12, 2020, 200 patients with COVID-19 and thoracic cancers from eight countries were identified and included in the TERAVOLT registry; median age was 68·0 years (61·8–75·0) and the majority had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–1 (142 [72%] of 196 patients), were current or former smokers (159 [81%] of 196), had non-small-cell lung cancer (151 [76%] of 200), and were on therapy at the time of COVID-19 diagnosis (147 [74%] of 199), with 112 (57%) of 197 on first-line treatment. 152 (76%) patients were hospitalised and 66 (33%) died. 13 (10%) of 134 patients who met criteria for ICU admission were admitted to ICU; the remaining 121 were hospitalised, but were not admitted to ICU. Univariable analyses revealed that being older than 65 years (OR 1·88, 95% 1·00–3·62), being a current or former smoker (4·24, 1·70–12·95), receiving treatment with chemotherapy alone (2·54, 1·09–6·11), and the presence of any comorbidities (2·65, 1·09–7·46) were associated with increased risk of death. However, in multivariable analysis, only smoking history (OR 3·18, 95% CI 1·11–9·06) was associated with increased risk of death. Interpretation With an ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19, our data suggest high mortality and low admission to intensive care in patients with thoracic cancer. Whether mortality could be reduced with treatment in intensive care remains to be determined. With improved cancer therapeutic options, access to intensive care should be discussed in a multidisciplinary setting based on cancer specific mortality and patients' preference. Funding None.
Collapse
|
18
|
Mauri G, Orsi F, Carriero S, Della Vigna P, De Fiori E, Monzani D, Pravettoni G, Grosso E, Manzoni MF, Ansarin M, Giugliano G. Image-Guided Thermal Ablation as an Alternative to Surgery for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma: Preliminary Results of an Italian Experience. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:575152. [PMID: 33488514 PMCID: PMC7820745 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.575152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the results of our preliminary experience in treating patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) with image-guided thermal ablation, in particular estimating the feasibility, safety and short-term efficacy. MATERIALS AND METHODS From 2018 patients with cytologically proven PTMC < 10 mm were discussed in a multidisciplinary team and evaluated for feasibility of image-guided thermal ablation. In case of technical feasibility, the three possible alternatives (i.e., image-guided thermal ablation, surgery, and active surveillance) were discussed with patients. Patients who agreed to be treated with image guided thermal ablation underwent radiofrequency (RFA) or laser ablation under local anesthesia and conscious sedation. Treatment feasibility, technical success, technique efficacy, change in thyroid function tests, side effects, minor and major complications, patients satisfaction and pain/discomfort perception during and after treatment, and disease recurrence during follow-up were recorded. RESULTS A total of 13 patients were evaluated, and 11/13 (84.6%) patients (9 female, 2 male, mean age 49.3 ± 8.7 years) resulted suitable for image-guided thermal ablation. All 11 patients agreed to be treated with image-guided thermal ablation. In addition, 3/11 (27.3%) were treated with laser ablation and 8/11 (72.7%) with RFA. All procedures were completed as preoperatively planned (technical success 100%). Technique efficacy was achieved in all 11/11 (100%) cases. Ablated volume significantly reduced from 0.87 ± 0.67 ml at first follow-up to 0.17 ± 0.36 at last follow-up (p = 0.003). No change in thyroid function tests occurred. No minor or major complications occurred. All patients graded 10 the satisfaction for the treatment, and mean pain after the procedure was reported as 1.4 ± 1.7, and mean pain after the procedure as 1.2 ± 1.1 At a median follow-up of 10.2 months (range 1.5-12 months), no local recurrence or distant metastases were found. CONCLUSIONS Image guided thermal ablations appear to be feasible and safe in the treatment of PTMC. These techniques hold the potential to offer patients a minimally invasive curative alternative to surgical resection or active surveillance. These techniques appear to be largely preferred by patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mauri
- Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Emato-Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Divisione di Radiologia interventistica, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Franco Orsi
- Divisione di Radiologia interventistica, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Serena Carriero
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Serena Carriero,
| | - Paolo Della Vigna
- Divisione di Radiologia interventistica, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Elvio De Fiori
- Unità di Radiologia Clinico Diagnostica, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Monzani
- Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Emato-Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Divisione di Psiconcologia, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Emato-Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Divisione di Psiconcologia, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrica Grosso
- Divisione di Otorinolaringoiatria e Chirurgia Cervico Facciale, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco F. Manzoni
- Divisione di Otorinolaringoiatria e Chirurgia Cervico Facciale, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Mohssen Ansarin
- Divisione di Otorinolaringoiatria e Chirurgia Cervico Facciale, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Giugliano
- Divisione di Otorinolaringoiatria e Chirurgia Cervico Facciale, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|