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Zoghbi M, Moussa MJ, Dagher J, Haroun E, Qdaisat A, Singer ED, Karam YE, Yeung SCJ, Chaftari P. Brain Metastasis in the Emergency Department: Epidemiology, Presentation, Investigations, and Management. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2583. [PMID: 39061222 PMCID: PMC11274762 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16142583] [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: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases (BMs) are the most prevalent type of cerebral tumor, significantly affecting survival. In adults, lung cancer, breast cancer, and melanoma are the primary cancers associated with BMs. Symptoms often result from brain compression, and patients may present to the emergency department (ED) with life-threatening conditions. The goal of treatment of BMs is to maximize survival and quality of life by choosing the least toxic therapy. Surgical resection followed by cavity radiation or definitive stereotactic radiosurgery remains the standard approach, depending on the patient's condition. Conversely, whole brain radiation therapy is becoming more limited to cases with multiple inoperable BMs and is less frequently used for postoperative control. BMs often signal advanced systemic disease, and patients usually present to the ED with poorly controlled symptoms, justifying hospitalization. Over half of patients with BMs in the ED are admitted, making effective ED-based management a challenge. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and current treatment options of patients with BMs. Additionally, it provides an overview of ED management and highlights the challenges faced in this setting. An improved understanding of the reasons for potentially avoidable hospitalizations in cancer patients with BMs is needed and could help emergency physicians distinguish patients who can be safely discharged from those who require observation or hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Zoghbi
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Mohammad Jad Moussa
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jim Dagher
- Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut 1100, Lebanon
| | - Elio Haroun
- Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut 1100, Lebanon
| | - Aiham Qdaisat
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Emad D. Singer
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yara E. Karam
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sai-Ching J. Yeung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Patrick Chaftari
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Zhai W, Yu Q, Wu H. The efficacy and safety of novel antiepileptic drugs in treatment of epilepsy of patients with brain tumors. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1344775. [PMID: 38523608 PMCID: PMC10958780 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1344775] [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: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of novel antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in treating epilepsy in patients with brain tumors (BTRE). Methods A search was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from inception to February 2023, with English language restriction. Results In this meta-analysis, 18 clinical trials involving 755 BTRE patients were included to assess the efficacy and safety of novel AEDs in BTRE treatment. At the last follow-up, a ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency was experienced by 72% of patients (random-effects model, 95% CI = 0.64-0.78) using novel AEDs. At the last follow-up, seizure freedom was experienced by 34% of patients (random-effects model, 95% CI = 0.28-0.41) using novel AEDs. The pooled incidence of AEs was found to be 19% (95% CI: 13%-26%), with a withdrawal rate due to adverse effects of only 3%. Comparable efficacy and incidence of adverse effects were observed between lacosamide and perampanel. Conclusion This meta-analysis suggests that novel antiepileptic drugs are deemed effective for seizure control in brain tumor patients, particularly when used as adjunctive therapy. Although lacosamide and perampanel received more focus in studies, no significant difference was observed in the efficacy and adverse reactions of these two drugs in seizure control. Further randomized controlled trials are deemed necessary to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Zhai
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- National Clinical Drug Monitoring Center, Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Qiaoling Yu
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- National Clinical Drug Monitoring Center, Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Huizhen Wu
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- National Clinical Drug Monitoring Center, Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
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Bianconi A, Koumantakis E, Gatto A, Zeppa P, Saaid A, Nico E, Bruno F, Pellerino A, Rizzo F, Junemann CV, Melcarne A, Garbossa D, Dalmasso P, Cofano F. Effects of Levetiracetam and Lacosamide on survival and seizure control in IDH-wild type glioblastoma during temozolomide plus radiation adjuvant therapy. BRAIN & SPINE 2023; 4:102732. [PMID: 38510602 PMCID: PMC10951696 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2023.102732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction There are no clear indications for the best choice of anti-seizure medications to control brain tumor related epilepsy. In vitro studies have shown an antitumoral effect of Levetiracetam and Lacosamide on glioblastoma IDH-wild type. Research question This study investigates whether the use of levetiracetam and/or lacosamide impacts survival rates. The secondary aim was to evaluate the efficacy of both ASMs in controlling seizures. Materials and methods In this observational retrospective single-cohort study, patients underwent chemoradiation protocol after GBM surgery. They were grouped as follows: (1) use of levetiracetam, (2) use of lacosamide, (3) simultaneous use of levetiracetam and lacosamide, (4) no ASM usage. Survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method coupled with a log-rank test for difference assesments. To evaluate the pharmacological efficacy of post-operative seizure control, a negative binomial regression was conducted. Results The study included 272 patients, 174 of which underwent adjuvant chemoradiation treatment. Patients without ASM therapy had a non-significant longer median OS (compared to the other groups (log-rank = 0.37). The IRR of seizure relapse was 2.57 (p = 0.007) times higher in lacosamide users, and MGMT promoter methylation demonstrated a protective effect against postoperative seizure onset (p = 0.05), regardless of the aforementioned confounding factors. Discussion and conclusions In patients diagnosed with GBM IDH-WT undergoing chemoradiation therapy, the use of levetiracetam or lacosamide for controlling BTRE does not seem to modify survival. Lacosamide users exhibited a higher IRR of postoperative seizures compared to levetiracetam users, and MGMT promoter methylation appears to be a protective factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bianconi
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Emanuele Koumantakis
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Post Graduate School of Medical Statistics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Gatto
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Pietro Zeppa
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Ayoub Saaid
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elsa Nico
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Francesco Bruno
- Neurooncology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessia Pellerino
- Neurooncology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Rizzo
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Melcarne
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Diego Garbossa
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Dalmasso
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Fabio Cofano
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Hattori EY, Arakawa Y, Mineharu Y, Furukawa K, Terada Y, Yamao Y, Tanji M, Kikuchi T, Miyamoto S. Seizure control by adding on other anti-seizure medication on seizure during levetiracetam administration in patients with glioma-related epilepsy. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:849. [PMID: 37697277 PMCID: PMC10496310 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11273-8] [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: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a major symptom in patients with glioma. Levetiracetam (LEV) is recognized as a first-line treatment for glioma-related epilepsy. Increasing the LEV dose is allowed into patients with seizure occurrence against its initial dose. However, the therapeutic efficacy of increasing the LEV dose in response to seizure occurrence remains unclear. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed 236 glioma patients who were treated with antiseizure medications (ASMs) internally at our institute between September 2010 and December 2017. Of these, the analysis focused on 156 patients treated with LEV who had a clear history of administration. RESULTS Seizure occurrences were observed in 21 of 75 patients (26.7%) who received LEV as first-line therapy and in 33 of 81 patients (40.7%) who received LEV as non-first-line treatment. The seizure control rate for seizure occurrence with LEV as first-line treatment was significantly higher in patients treated with addition of other ASMs (72.7%) than in those treated with increasing dose of LEV (20.0%) (p = 0.016). The seizure control rate for seizure occurrence with LEV as non-first-line treatment did not differ significantly between patients with addition of other ASMs (58.3%) and those treated with increasing dose of LEV (47.6%) (p = 0.554). CONCLUSIONS Adding other ASMs was more effective than increasing the LEV dose for seizure control in patients treated with LEV as first-line treatment, but they demonstrated comparable efficacy in patients treated with LEV as non-first-line treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etsuko Yamamoto Hattori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Arakawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Yohei Mineharu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | | | - Yukinori Terada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Yamao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Masahiro Tanji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kikuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
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Aroosa M, Malik JA, Ahmed S, Bender O, Ahemad N, Anwar S. The evidence for repurposing anti-epileptic drugs to target cancer. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:7667-7680. [PMID: 37418080 PMCID: PMC10460753 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08568-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Antiepileptic drugs are versatile drugs with the potential to be used in functional drug formulations with drug repurposing approaches. In the present review, we investigated the anticancer properties of antiepileptic drugs and interlinked cancer and epileptic pathways. Our focus was primarily on those drugs that have entered clinical trials with positive results and those that provided good results in preclinical studies. Many contributing factors make cancer therapy fail, like drug resistance, tumor heterogeneity, and cost; exploring all alternatives for efficient treatment is important. It is crucial to find new drug targets to find out new antitumor molecules from the already clinically validated and approved drugs utilizing drug repurposing methods. The advancements in genomics, proteomics, and other computational approaches speed up drug repurposing. This review summarizes the potential of antiepileptic drugs in different cancers and tumor progression in the brain. Valproic acid, oxcarbazepine, lacosamide, lamotrigine, and levetiracetam are the drugs that showed potential beneficial outcomes against different cancers. Antiepileptic drugs might be a good option for adjuvant cancer therapy, but there is a need to investigate further their efficacy in cancer therapy clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mir Aroosa
- Department of Pharmacology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Jonaid Ahmad Malik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Rupnagar, Punjab, India
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar, Ropar, India
| | - Sakeel Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Onur Bender
- Biotechnology Institute, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nafees Ahemad
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan lagoon selatan, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, DE, Malaysia.
| | - Sirajudheen Anwar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia.
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Le VT, Nguyen AM, Pham TA, Nguyen PL. Tumor-related epilepsy and post-surgical outcomes: tertiary hospital experience in Vietnam. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10859. [PMID: 37407622 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38049-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Seizures have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer. This study aimed to evaluate the variables that influence the incidence of seizures during the perioperative period and effective measures to enhance epilepsy outcomes among individuals undergoing surgical resection of brain tumors. The authors carried out a prospective observational analysis of all patients who experienced seizures before their brain tumor surgery at UMC, HCMC between 2020 and 2022. 54 cases presented with seizures were enrolled for the study, generalized seizure was the most prevalent seizure type (61.1%), followed by focal seizure (29.6%). The majority of patients presented with seizures are those who were diagnosed with glioma. Low-grade gliomas and frontotemporal lobe tumors increase the postoperative risk of seizure. Other predictive factors are a prolonged history of seizure, especially resistant epilepsy and major peritumoral edema. In contrast, gross total resection reduces postoperative seizure incidence. There was correlation between Ki67 proliferation index and seizure incidence in both low-grade and high-grade gliomas. ECoG made insubstantial difference in enhancing the epilepsy surgery outcome. Overall, 88.9% of patients were seizure-free at 6 months of follow-up (Engel Class I), 7.4% were almost seizure-free (Class II), and 3.7% had significant improvement (Class III), figures for 12-month follow-up were 87.0%, 9.3%, and 3.7% respectively. A shorter history of seizure and gross-total resection appear to be associated with a favorable prognosis for seizure control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viet-Thang Le
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 217 Hong Bang Street, 11th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, UMC, 215 Hong Bang Street, 11th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Anh Minh Nguyen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 217 Hong Bang Street, 11th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, UMC, 215 Hong Bang Street, 11th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Tuan Anh Pham
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 217 Hong Bang Street, 11th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital, 468 Nguyen Trai Street, 8th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Phuc Long Nguyen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, UMC, 215 Hong Bang Street, 11th Ward, 5th District, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam.
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Ius T, Sabatino G, Panciani PP, Fontanella MM, Rudà R, Castellano A, Barbagallo GMV, Belotti F, Boccaletti R, Catapano G, Costantino G, Della Puppa A, Di Meco F, Gagliardi F, Garbossa D, Germanò AF, Iacoangeli M, Mortini P, Olivi A, Pessina F, Pignotti F, Pinna G, Raco A, Sala F, Signorelli F, Sarubbo S, Skrap M, Spena G, Somma T, Sturiale C, Angileri FF, Esposito V. Surgical management of Glioma Grade 4: technical update from the neuro-oncology section of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery (SINch®): a systematic review. J Neurooncol 2023; 162:267-293. [PMID: 36961622 PMCID: PMC10167129 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-023-04274-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The extent of resection (EOR) is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in adult patients with Glioma Grade 4 (GG4). The aim of the neuro-oncology section of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery (SINch®) was to provide a general overview of the current trends and technical tools to reach this goal. METHODS A systematic review was performed. The results were divided and ordered, by an expert team of surgeons, to assess the Class of Evidence (CE) and Strength of Recommendation (SR) of perioperative drugs management, imaging, surgery, intraoperative imaging, estimation of EOR, surgery at tumor progression and surgery in elderly patients. RESULTS A total of 352 studies were identified, including 299 retrospective studies and 53 reviews/meta-analysis. The use of Dexamethasone and the avoidance of prophylaxis with anti-seizure medications reached a CE I and SR A. A preoperative imaging standard protocol was defined with CE II and SR B and usefulness of an early postoperative MRI, with CE II and SR B. The EOR was defined the strongest independent risk factor for both OS and tumor recurrence with CE II and SR B. For intraoperative imaging only the use of 5-ALA reached a CE II and SR B. The estimation of EOR was established to be fundamental in planning postoperative adjuvant treatments with CE II and SR B and the stereotactic image-guided brain biopsy to be the procedure of choice when an extensive surgical resection is not feasible (CE II and SR B). CONCLUSIONS A growing number of evidences evidence support the role of maximal safe resection as primary OS predictor in GG4 patients. The ongoing development of intraoperative techniques for a precise real-time identification of peritumoral functional pathways enables surgeons to maximize EOR minimizing the post-operative morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Ius
- Division of Neurosurgery, Head-Neck and NeuroScience Department, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sabatino
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
- Unit of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Panciani
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Marco Maria Fontanella
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Turin and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10094, Torino, Italy
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Turin and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10094, Torino, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Hospital of Castelfranco Veneto, 31033, Castelfranco Veneto, Italy
| | - Antonella Castellano
- Department of Neuroradiology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maria Vincenzo Barbagallo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies (G.F. Ingrassia), Neurological Surgery, Policlinico "G. Rodolico - San Marco" University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center On Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Treatment, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Belotti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Catapano
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurological Sciences, Ospedale del Mare, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Della Puppa
- Neurosurgical Clinical Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health, Careggi Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Meco
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Filippo Gagliardi
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Garbossa
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini," Neurosurgery Unit, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Iacoangeli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Azienda Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Pietro Mortini
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federico Pessina
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Milan, Italy
- Neurosurgery Department, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Pignotti
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
- Unit of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
| | - Giampietro Pinna
- Unit of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Hospital Trust of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonino Raco
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of NESMOS, AOU Sant'Andrea, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Sala
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicines and Movement Sciences, Institute of Neurosurgery, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Signorelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, Neurosurgery Unit, University "Aldo Moro", 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Silvio Sarubbo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Provinciale Per I Servizi Sanitari (APSS), Trento, Italy
| | - Miran Skrap
- Division of Neurosurgery, Head-Neck and NeuroScience Department, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Teresa Somma
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Vincenzo Esposito
- Department of Neurosurgery "Giampaolo Cantore"-IRCSS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Human, Neurosciences-"Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Vacher E, Rodriguez Ruiz M, Rees JH. Management of brain tumour related epilepsy (BTRE): a narrative review and therapy recommendations. Br J Neurosurg 2023:1-8. [PMID: 36694327 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2023.2170326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Brain Tumour Related Epilepsy (BTRE) has a significant impact on Quality of Life with implications for driving, employment, and social activities. Management of BTRE is complex due to the higher incidence of drug resistance and the potential for interaction between anti-cancer therapy and anti-seizure medications (ASMs). Neurologists, neurosurgeons, oncologists, palliative care physicians and clinical nurse specialists treating these patients would benefit from up-to-date clinical guidelines. We aim to review the current literature and to outline specific recommendations for the optimal treatment of BTRE, encompassing both Primary Brain Tumours (PBT) and Brain Metastases (BM). A comprehensive search of the literature since 1995 on BTRE was carried out in PubMed, MEDLINE and EMCARE. A broad search strategy was used, and the evidence evaluated and graded based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence. Seizure frequency varies between 10 and 40% in patients with Brain Metastases (BM) and from 30% (high-grade gliomas) to 90% (low-grade gliomas) in patients with PBT. In patients with BM, risk factors include number of BM and melanoma histology. In patients with PBT, BTRE is more common in patients with lower grade histology, frontal and temporal tumours, presence of an IDH mutation and cortical infiltration. All patients with BTRE should be treated with ASMs. Non-enzyme inducing ASMs are recommended as first line treatment for BTRE, but up to 50% of patients with BTRE due to PBT remain resistant. There is no proven benefit for the use of prophylactic ASMs, although there are no randomised trials testing newer agents. Surgical and oncological treatments i.e. radiotherapy and chemotherapy improve BTRE. Vagus Nerve Stimulation has been used with partial success. The review highlights the relative dearth of high-quality evidence for the management of BTRE and provides a framework for further studies aiming to improve seizure control, quality of life, and indications for ASMs.KEY POINTSOffer levetiracetam or lamotrigine to all patients with primary or metastatic brain tumours who have seizure(s), irrespective of whether these are partial or generalised.ASM withdrawal for patients in remission is not recommended due to high rates of seizure recurrence.ASM prophylaxis is not generally recommended in the management of seizure-naïve patients.Both levetiracetam and lamotrigine are safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Vacher
- UCL Medical School, London, UK
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | | | - Jeremy H Rees
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
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Sánchez-Villalobos JM, Aledo-Serrano Á, Villegas-Martínez I, Shaikh MF, Alcaraz M. Epilepsy treatment in neuro-oncology: A rationale for drug choice in common clinical scenarios. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:991244. [PMID: 36278161 PMCID: PMC9583251 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy represents a challenge in the management of patients with brain tumors. Epileptic seizures are one of the most frequent comorbidities in neuro-oncology and may be the debut symptom of a brain tumor or a complication during its evolution. Epileptogenic mechanisms of brain tumors are not yet fully elucidated, although new factors related to the underlying pathophysiological process with possible treatment implications have been described. In recent years, the development of new anti-seizure medications (ASM), with better pharmacokinetic profiles and fewer side effects, has become a paradigm shift in many clinical scenarios in neuro-oncology, being able, for instance, to adapt epilepsy treatment to specific features of each patient. This is crucial in several situations, such as patients with cognitive/psychiatric comorbidity, pregnancy, or advanced age, among others. In this narrative review, we provide a rationale for decision-making in ASM choice for neuro-oncologic patients, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each drug. In addition, according to current literature evidence, we try to answer some of the most frequent questions that arise in daily clinical practice in patients with epilepsy related to brain tumors, such as, which patients are the best candidates for ASM and when to start it, what is the best treatment option for each patient, and what are the major pitfalls to be aware of during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel Sánchez-Villalobos
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Complex of Cartagena, Murcia, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, Regional Campus of International Excellence, “Campus Mare Nostrum”, IMIB-Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ángel Aledo-Serrano
- Epilepsy Program, Department of Neurology, Ruber International Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ángel Aledo-Serrano,
| | | | - Mohd Farooq Shaikh
- Neuropharmacology Research Laboratory, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Miguel Alcaraz
- Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, School of Medicine, Regional Campus of International Excellence, “Campus Mare Nostrum”, IMIB-Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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10
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Seidel S, Wehner T, Miller D, Wellmer J, Schlegel U, Grönheit W. Brain tumor related epilepsy: pathophysiological approaches and rational management of antiseizure medication. Neurol Res Pract 2022; 4:45. [PMID: 36059029 PMCID: PMC9442934 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-022-00205-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brain tumor related epilepsy (BTRE) is a common complication of cerebral tumors and its incidence is highly dependent on the type of tumor, ranging from 10–15% in brain metastases to > 80% in low grade gliomas. Clinical management is challenging and has to take into account aspects beyond the treatment of non-tumoral epilepsy. Main body Increasing knowledge about the pathophysiology of BTRE, particularly on glutamatergic mechanisms of oncogenesis and epileptogenesis, might influence management of anti-tumor and BTRE treatment in the future. The first seizure implies the diagnosis of epilepsy in patients with brain tumors. Due to the lack of prospective randomized trials in BTRE, general recommendations for focal epilepsies currently apply concerning the initiation of antiseizure medication (ASM). Non-enzyme inducing ASM is preferable. Prospective trials are needed to evaluate, if AMPA inhibitors like perampanel possess anti-tumor effects. ASM withdrawal has to be weighed very carefully against the risk of seizure recurrence, but can be achievable in selected patients. Permission to drive is possible for some patients with BTRE under well-defined conditions, but requires thorough neurological, radiological, ophthalmological and neuropsychological examination.
Conclusion An evolving knowledge on pathophysiology of BTRE might influence future therapy. Randomized trials on ASM in BTRE with reliable endpoints are needed. Management of withdrawal of ASMs and permission to drive demands thorough diagnostic as well as neurooncological and epileptological expertise.
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Onodera M, Saito T, Fukui A, Nitta M, Tsuzuki S, Koriyama S, Masamune K, Kawamata T, Muragaki Y. The high incidence and risk factors of levetiracetam and lacosamide-related skin rashes in glioma patients. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2022; 220:107366. [PMID: 35878560 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2022.107366] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Antiseizure drug (ASD)-induced skin rash remains the main side effect of seizure management in patients with glioma. New generations of ASDs, such as levetiracetam (LEV) and lacosamide (LCM) are associated with less frequent skin rashes than conventional ASDs. However, there are few reports regarding the incidence of skin rashes by LEV and LCM in patients with glioma. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors of LEV- and LCM-associated skin rashes in patients with glioma. METHODS We compared the incidence of ASD-associated skin rash between 353 patients with glioma and 125 patients with meningioma, who received LEV or LCM and underwent surgery between 2017 and 2019 at our institution. Furthermore, to evaluate the association between potential risk factors and ASD-associated skin rashes, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. RESULTS The incidence of ASD-associated skin rash in patients with glioma was higher (11 %) than in those with meningiomas (1.6 %). The multivariate regression analysis showed that adjuvant treatment with radiotherapy (p = 0.023) and a history of drug allergy (p = 0.023) were significant risk factors for ASD-associated skin rash. The rate of ASD-related skin rashes in patients with glioma was also higher than the previously reported rates of 1-3 % in patients with epilepsy. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that adjuvant treatment with radiotherapy and a history of drug allergy correlated with a high incidence of ASD-related skin rashes in patients with glioma who receive LEV and LCM. Patients with these two factors should be carefully checked for skin rashes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikoto Onodera
- Department of Pharmacy, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan; Faculty of Advanced Techno-Surgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taiichi Saito
- Faculty of Advanced Techno-Surgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Atsushi Fukui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Nitta
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Tsuzuki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunichi Koriyama
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Masamune
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takakazu Kawamata
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Muragaki
- Faculty of Advanced Techno-Surgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Mo F, Meletti S, Belcastro V, Quadri S, Napolitano M, Bello L, Dainese F, Scarpelli M, Florindo I, Mascia A, Pauletto G, Bruno F, Pellerino A, Giovannini G, Polosa M, Sessa M, Conti Nibali M, Di Gennaro G, Gigli GL, Pisanello A, Cavallieri F, Rudà R. Lacosamide in monotherapy in BTRE (brain tumor-related epilepsy): results from an Italian multicenter retrospective study. J Neurooncol 2022; 157:551-559. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-022-03998-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Sánchez-Villalobos JM, Aledo-Serrano Á, Serna-Berna A, Salinas-Ramos J, Martínez-Alonso E, Pérez-Vicente JA, Alcaraz-Baños M. Antiseizure medication for brain metastasis-related epilepsy: Findings of optimal choice from a retrospective cohort. Epilepsy Res 2021; 178:106812. [PMID: 34844092 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2021.106812] [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: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the prevalence of antiseizure medication (ASM) in patients with brain metastasis-related epilepsy (BMRE) treated with radiosurgery and the relationship between ASM and psychiatric comorbidity. MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a cross-sectional observational design study with retrospective review of medical records of all patients with brain metastases treated with volumetric modulated arc therapy radiosurgery (VMAT-RS) between 2012 and 2018 in a tertiary oncology center. We included those patients with BMRE, analyzing the clinical and demographic data, with special attention to psychiatric comorbidities and the use of ASM. RESULTS Of the 121 patients with brain metastases included for treatment with VMAT-RS, a total of 38 presented BMRE. The most widely used ASM as first-line treatment was levetiracetam (89%). Only 8% of the patients received sodium channel blockers. The most common psychiatric comorbidity was depression (42.1%). CONCLUSIONS Levetiracetam is the most widely used ASM in patients with BMRE treated with VMAT-RS. Nevertheless, common psychiatric comorbidities in this population might change the decision-making of ASM choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel Sánchez-Villalobos
- Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Dentistry, University of Murcia, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain; Department of Neurology, University Hospital Complex of Cartagena (Santa Lucia University Hospital - Santa María del Rosell University Hospital), Murcia, Spain.
| | - Ángel Aledo-Serrano
- Epilepsy Program, Department of Neurology, Ruber International Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfredo Serna-Berna
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiation Protection, University Hospital Complex of Cartagena (Santa Lucia University Hospital - Santa María del Rosell University Hospital), Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan Salinas-Ramos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Complex of Cartagena (Santa Lucia University Hospital - Santa María del Rosell University Hospital), Murcia, Spain
| | - Emma Martínez-Alonso
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine/Dentistry, University of Murcia, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - José Antonio Pérez-Vicente
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Complex of Cartagena (Santa Lucia University Hospital - Santa María del Rosell University Hospital), Murcia, Spain
| | - Miguel Alcaraz-Baños
- Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Dentistry, University of Murcia, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
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14
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van der Meer PB, Dirven L, van den Bent MJ, Preusser M, Taphoorn MJB, Rudá R, Koekkoek JAF. Prescription preferences of antiepileptic drugs in brain tumor patients: An international survey among EANO members. Neurooncol Pract 2021; 9:105-113. [PMID: 35371521 PMCID: PMC8965049 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npab059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed at investigating antiepileptic drug (AED) prescription preferences in patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE) among the European neuro-oncology community, the considerations that play a role when initiating AED treatment, the organization of care, and practices with regard to AED withdrawal. Methods A digital survey containing 31 questions about prescription preferences of AEDs was set out among members of the European Association of Neuro-Oncology (EANO). Results A total of 198 respondents treating patients with BTRE participated of whom 179 completed the entire survey. Levetiracetam was the first choice in patients with BTRE for almost all respondents (90% [162/181]). Levetiracetam was considered the most effective AED in reducing seizure frequency (72% [131/181]) and having the least adverse effects (48% [87/181]). Common alternatives for levetiracetam as equivalent first choice included lacosamide (33% [59/181]), lamotrigine (22% [40/181]), and valproic acid (21% [38/181]). Most crucial factors to choose a specific AED were potential adverse effects (82% [148/181]) and interactions with antitumor treatments (76% [137/181]). In the majority of patients, neuro-oncologists were involved in the treatment of seizures (73% [132/181])). Other relevant findings were that a minority of respondents ever prescribe AEDs in brain tumor patients without epilepsy solely as prophylaxis (29% [53/181]), but a majority routinely considers complete AED withdrawal in BTRE patients who are seizure-free after antitumor treatment (79% [141/179]). Conclusions Our results show that among European professionals treating patients with BTRE levetiracetam is considered the first choice AED, with the presumed highest efficacy and least adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pim B van der Meer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands,Corresponding Author: Pim B. van der Meer, BSc, Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands ()
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J van den Bent
- Brain Tumor Center at Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Matthias Preusser
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Roberta Rudá
- Department of Neurology, Castelfranco Veneto Hospital, Castelfranco Veneto, Italy,Department of Neuro-Oncology, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
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15
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de Bruin ME, van der Meer PB, Dirven L, Taphoorn MJB, Koekkoek JAF. Efficacy of antiepileptic drugs in glioma patients with epilepsy: a systematic review. Neurooncol Pract 2021; 8:501-517. [PMID: 34589231 PMCID: PMC8475226 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Comprehensive data on the efficacy and tolerability of antiepileptic drugs (AED) treatment in glioma patients with epilepsy are currently lacking. In this systematic review, we specifically assessed the efficacy of AEDs in patients with a grade II-IV glioma. Methods Electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched up to June 2020. Three different outcomes for both mono- and polytherapy were extracted from all eligible articles: (i) seizure freedom; (ii) ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency; and (iii) treatment failure. Weighted averages (WA) were calculated for outcomes at 6 and 12 months. Results A total of 66 studies were included. Regarding the individual outcomes on the efficacy of monotherapy, the highest seizure freedom rate at 6 months was with phenytoin (WA = 72%) while at 12-month pregabalin (WA = 75%) and levetiracetam (WA = 74%) showed highest efficacy. Concerning ≥50% seizure reduction rates, levetiracetam showed highest efficacy at 6 and 12 months (WAs of 82% and 97%, respectively). However, treatment failure rates at 12 months were highest for phenytoin (WA = 34%) and pregabalin (41%). When comparing the described polytherapy combinations with follow-up of ≥6 months, levetiracetam combined with phenytoin was most effective followed by levetiracetam combined with valproic acid. Conclusion Given the heterogeneous patient populations and the low scientific quality across the different studies, seizure rates need to be interpreted with caution. Based on the current limited evidence, with the ranking of AEDs being confined to the AEDs studied, levetiracetam, phenytoin, and pregabalin seem to be most effective as AED monotherapy in glioma patients with epilepsy, with levetiracetam showing the lowest treatment failure rate, compared to the other AEDs studied.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pim B van der Meer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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16
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van Opijnen MP, van der Meer PB, Dirven L, Fiocco M, Kouwenhoven MCM, van den Bent MJ, Taphoorn MJB, Koekkoek JAF. The effectiveness of antiepileptic drug treatment in glioma patients: lamotrigine versus lacosamide. J Neurooncol 2021; 154:73-81. [PMID: 34196916 PMCID: PMC8367894 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03800-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Optimal treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is an important part of care for brain tumor patients with epileptic seizures. Lamotrigine and lacosamide are both examples of frequently used non-enzyme inducing AEDs with limited to no drug-drug interactions, reducing the risk of unfavorable side effects. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of lamotrigine versus lacosamide. Methods In this multicenter study we retrospectively analyzed data of patients with diffuse grade 2–4 glioma with epileptic seizures. All patients received either lamotrigine or lacosamide during the course of their disease after treatment failure of first-line monotherapy with levetiracetam or valproic acid. Primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of treatment failure, from initiation of lamotrigine or lacosamide, with death as competing event, for which a competing risk model was used. Secondary outcomes were uncontrolled seizures after AED initiation and level of toxicity. Results We included a total of 139 patients of whom 61 (44%) used lamotrigine and 78 (56%) used lacosamide. At 12 months, there was no statistically significant difference in the cumulative incidence of treatment failure for any reason between lamotrigine and lacosamide: 38% (95%CI 26–51%) versus 30% (95%CI 20–41%), respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio for treatment failure of lacosamide compared to lamotrigine was 0.84 (95%CI 0.46–1.56). The cumulative incidences of treatment failure due to uncontrolled seizures (18% versus 11%) and due to adverse events (17% versus 19%) did not differ significantly between lamotrigine and lacosamide. Conclusion Lamotrigine and lacosamide show similar effectiveness in diffuse glioma patients with epilepsy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11060-021-03800-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P van Opijnen
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Pim B van der Meer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Fiocco
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Medical Statistics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Mathematical Institute, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde C M Kouwenhoven
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
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17
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Schaidle S, Greathouse K, McConnell D. Safety and efficacy of lacosamide versus phenytoin for refractory seizures in neurosurgical patients. BMJ Neurol Open 2021; 3:e000144. [PMID: 34250484 PMCID: PMC8231016 DOI: 10.1136/bmjno-2021-000144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Postoperative neurosurgical patients have increased risk of seizures. Traditional anti-epileptics, such as phenytoin, are not always effective and cause adverse effects. Levetiracetam is the first-line therapy due to its similar efficacy and more favourable side effect profile. However, many patients continue to seize despite adequate dosing. Lacosamide has been used for refractory seizures and may offer similar seizure control without the negative aspects of traditional agents. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if lacosamide is as safe and effective as phenytoin in terminating seizures in neurosurgical patients already on levetiracetam. Methods This retrospective, single-centre cohort study identified neurosurgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients ≥18 years old who had received levetiracetam plus either phenytoin or lacosamide at Northwestern Memorial Hospital between 1 January 2016 and 31 August 2017. The primary endpoint was treatment failure and the secondary endpoint was safety assessed by liver function tests, blood pressure, heart rate and ECG. Results 70 patients were included in this study, 52 in the phenytoin group and 18 in the lacosamide group. Both phenytoin and lacosamide groups had similar treatment failure rates (25% vs 22% respectively, p=1). Phenytoin use resulted in a mean decrease in systolic blood pressure of 20.9 mm Hg compared with 9.8 mm Hg in the lacosamide group (p=0.019). There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of other adverse effects. Conclusions The use of lacosamide for refractory seizures in neurosurgical ICU patients was associated with similar failure rates, but fewer adverse effects when compared with phenytoin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schaidle
- Department of Pharmacy, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kasey Greathouse
- Department of Pharmacy, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Deepika McConnell
- Department of Pharmacy, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Zoccarato M, Nardetto L, Basile AM, Giometto B, Zagonel V, Lombardi G. Seizures, Edema, Thrombosis, and Hemorrhages: An Update Review on the Medical Management of Gliomas. Front Oncol 2021; 11:617966. [PMID: 33828976 PMCID: PMC8019972 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.617966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients affected with gliomas develop a complex set of clinical manifestations that deeply impact on quality of life and overall survival. Brain tumor-related epilepsy is frequently the first manifestation of gliomas or may occur during the course of disease; the underlying mechanisms have not been fully explained and depend on both patient and tumor factors. Novel treatment options derive from the growing use of third-generation antiepileptic drugs. Vasogenic edema and elevated intracranial pressure cause a considerable burden of symptoms, especially in high-grade glioma, requiring an adequate use of corticosteroids. Patients with gliomas present with an elevated risk of tumor-associated venous thromboembolism whose prophylaxis and treatment are challenging, considering also the availability of new oral anticoagulant drugs. Moreover, intracerebral hemorrhages can complicate the course of the illness both due to tumor-specific characteristics, patient comorbidities, and side effects of antithrombotic and antitumoral therapies. This paper aims to review recent advances in these clinical issues, discussing the medical management of gliomas through an updated literature review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zoccarato
- Neurology Unit, O.S.A., Azienda Ospedale-Università, Padua, Italy
| | - Lucia Nardetto
- Neurology Unit, O.S.A., Azienda Ospedale-Università, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Bruno Giometto
- Neurology Unit, Trento Hospital, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari (APSS) di Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Vittorina Zagonel
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCSS, Padua, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lombardi
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCSS, Padua, Italy
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19
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Rudà R, Houillier C, Maschio M, Reijneveld JC, Hellot S, De Backer M, Chan J, Joeres L, Leunikava I, Glas M, Grant R. Effectiveness and tolerability of lacosamide as add-on therapy in patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy: Results from a prospective, noninterventional study in European clinical practice (VIBES). Epilepsia 2020; 61:647-656. [PMID: 32329527 PMCID: PMC7384112 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of lacosamide added to one or two antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in the treatment of patients with brain tumor–related epilepsy (BTRE), and to evaluate patients’ global impression of change and quality of life (QoL). Methods This was a prospective, multicenter, single‐arm, noninterventional study with a 6‐month observation period (EP0045; NCT02276053). Eligible patients (≥16 years old) had active BTRE secondary to low‐grade glioma (World Health Organization grade 1 and 2) and were receiving treatment with one or two AEDs at baseline. Lacosamide was initiated by the treating physician in the course of routine clinical practice. Primary outcomes were 50% responders (≥50% reduction in focal seizure frequency from baseline) and Patient's Global Impression of Change (PGIC) at month 6. Secondary outcomes included seizure‐free status and Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGIC) at month 6, change in QoL (5‐Level EuroQol‐5 Dimension Quality of Life Assessment) and symptom outcomes (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory–Brain Tumor) from baseline to month 6, and Kaplan‐Meier estimated 6‐month retention on lacosamide. Safety variables included adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Results Patients were recruited from 24 sites in Europe. Ninety‐three patients received lacosamide (mean [standard deviation] age = 44.5 [14.7] years; 50 [53.8%] male; median baseline focal seizure frequency = five seizures/28 days [range = 1‐280]), of whom 79 (84.9%) completed the study. At 6 months, 66 of 86 (76.7%) patients were 50% responders and 30 of 86 (34.9%) were seizure‐free. Improvements on PGIC were reported by 49 of 76 (64.5%) patients. Based on CGIC, 52 of 81 (64.2%) patients improved. QoL and symptoms outcome measures remained stable. Kaplan‐Meier estimated 6‐month retention rate was 86.0% (N = 93). Fifteen (16.1%) patients reported ADRs; four (4.3%) had ADRs leading to discontinuation (N = 93). Significance Results of this prospective, noninterventional study suggest that add‐on lacosamide is effective and generally well tolerated in patients with BTRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Rudà
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Caroline Houillier
- AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, IHU, ICM, Public Hospital Network of Paris, Service de Neurologie 2-Mazarin, Hôpitaux, Universitaires La Pitié Salpêtrière - Charles Foix, Paris, France
| | - Marta Maschio
- Center for Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Jaap C Reijneveld
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Martin Glas
- Division of Clinical Neuro-oncology, Department of Neurology, West German Cancer Center and German Cancer Consortium Partner Site, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Robin Grant
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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20
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Cucchiara F, Pasqualetti F, Giorgi FS, Danesi R, Bocci G. Epileptogenesis and oncogenesis: An antineoplastic role for antiepileptic drugs in brain tumours? Pharmacol Res 2020; 156:104786. [PMID: 32278037 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The first description of epileptic seizures due to brain tumours occurred in 19th century. Nevertheless, after over one hundred years, scientific literature is still lacking on how epilepsy and its treatment can affect tumour burden, progression and clinical outcomes. In patients with brain tumours, epilepsy dramatically impacts their quality of life (QoL). Even antiepileptic therapy seems to affect tumor lesion development. Numerous studies suggest that certain actors involved in epileptogenesis (inflammatory changes, glutamate and its ionotropic and metabotropic receptors, GABA-A and its GABA-AR receptor, as well as certain ligand- and voltage-gated ion channel) may also contribute to tumorigenesis. Although some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are known operating on such mechanisms underlying epilepsy and tumor development, few preclinical and clinical studies have tried to investigate them as targets of pharmacological tools acting to control both phenomena. The primary aim of this review is to summarize known determinants and pathophysiological mechanisms of seizures, as well as of cell growth and spread, in patients with brain tumors. Therefore, a special focus will be provided on the anticancer effects of commonly prescribed AEDs (including levetiracetam, valproic acid, oxcarbazepine and others), with an overview of both preclinical and clinical data. Potential clinical applications of this finding are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Cucchiara
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Scuola di Specializzazione in Farmacologia e Tossicologia Clinica, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Pasqualetti
- U.O. Radioterapia, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Pisana, Università di Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Sean Giorgi
- U.O. Neurologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Pisana, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Dipartimento di Ricerca Traslazionale e delle Nuove Tecnologie in Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Romano Danesi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Scuola di Specializzazione in Farmacologia e Tossicologia Clinica, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Guido Bocci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Scuola di Specializzazione in Farmacologia e Tossicologia Clinica, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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21
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Abstract
More than one-third of patients with meningiomas will experience seizures at some point in their disease. Despite this, meningioma-associated epilepsy remains significantly understudied, as most investigations focus on tumor progression, extent of resection, and survival. Due to the impact of epilepsy on the patient's quality of life, identifying predictors of preoperative seizures and postoperative seizure freedom is critical. In this chapter, we review previously reported rates and predictors of seizures in meningioma and discuss surgical and medical treatment options. Preoperative epilepsy occurs in approximately 30% of meningioma patients with peritumoral edema on neuroimaging being one of the most significant predictor of seizures. Other associated factors include age <18, male gender, the absence of headache, and non-skull base tumor location. Following tumor resection, approximately 70% of individuals with preoperative epilepsy achieve seizure freedom. Variables associated with persistent seizures include a history of preoperative epilepsy, peritumoral edema, skull base tumor location, tumor progression, and epileptiform discharges on postoperative electroencephalogram. In addition, after surgery, approximately 10% of meningioma patients without preoperative epilepsy experience new seizures. Variables associated with new postoperative seizures include tumor progression, prior radiation exposure, and gross total tumor resection. Both pre- and postoperative meningioma-related seizures are often responsive to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), although AED prophylaxis in the absence of seizures is not recommended. AED selection is based on current guidelines for treating focal seizures with additional considerations including efficacy in tumor-related epilepsy, toxicities, and potential drug-drug interactions. Continued investigation into medical and surgical strategies for preventing and alleviating epilepsy in meningioma is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Harward
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - John D Rolston
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Dario J Englot
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.
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22
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Maschio M, Aguglia U, Avanzini G, Banfi P, Buttinelli C, Capovilla G, Casazza MML, Colicchio G, Coppola A, Costa C, Dainese F, Daniele O, De Simone R, Eoli M, Gasparini S, Giallonardo AT, La Neve A, Maialetti A, Mecarelli O, Melis M, Michelucci R, Paladin F, Pauletto G, Piccioli M, Quadri S, Ranzato F, Rossi R, Salmaggi A, Terenzi R, Tisei P, Villani F, Vitali P, Vivalda LC, Zaccara G, Zarabla A, Beghi E. Management of epilepsy in brain tumors. Neurol Sci 2019; 40:2217-2234. [PMID: 31392641 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-019-04025-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy in brain tumors (BTE) may require medical attention for a variety of unique concerns: epileptic seizures, possible serious adverse effects of antineoplastic and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), physical disability, and/or neurocognitive disturbances correlated to tumor site. Guidelines for the management of tumor-related epilepsies are lacking. Treatment is not standardized, and overall management might differ according to different specialists. The aim of this document was to provide directives on the procedures to be adopted for a correct diagnostic-therapeutic path of the patient with BTE, evaluating indications, risks, and benefits. A board comprising neurologists, epileptologists, neurophysiologists, neuroradiologists, neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neuropsychologists, and patients' representatives was formed. The board converted diagnostic and therapeutic problems into seventeen questions. A literature search was performed in September-October 2017, and a total of 7827 unique records were retrieved, of which 148 constituted the core literature. There is no evidence that histological type or localization of the brain tumor affects the response to an AED. The board recommended to avoid enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs because of their interference with antitumoral drugs and consider as first-choice newer generation drugs (among them, levetiracetam, lamotrigine, and topiramate). Valproic acid should also be considered. Both short-term and long-term prophylaxes are not recommended in primary and metastatic brain tumors. Management of seizures in patients with BTE should be multidisciplinary. The panel evidenced conflicting or lacking data regarding the role of EEG, the choice of therapeutic strategy, and timing to withdraw AEDs and recommended high-quality long-term studies to standardize BTE care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Maschio
- Center for Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuliano Avanzini
- Department of Neurophysiology and Experimental Epileptology, Carlo Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Banfi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Emergency, Medicine Epilepsy Center, Circolo Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Carla Buttinelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Capovilla
- Department of Mental Health, Epilepsy Center, C. Poma Hospital, Mantua, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Colicchio
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Coppola
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Epilepsy Centre, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Cinzia Costa
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Medicine, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Filippo Dainese
- Epilepsy Centre, UOC Neurology, SS. Giovanni e Paolo Hospital, Venice, Italy
| | - Ornella Daniele
- Epilepsy Center-U.O.C. Neurology, Policlinico Paolo Giaccone, Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience Department (BioNeC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto De Simone
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, Epilepsy and Sleep Disorders Center, St. Eugenio Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marica Eoli
- Molecular Neuro-Oncology Unit, IRCCS-Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Gasparini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Angela La Neve
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, Centre for Epilepsy, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Maialetti
- Center for Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Oriano Mecarelli
- Neurology Unit, Human Neurosciences Department, Sapienza University, Umberto 1 Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Melis
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Institute of Neurology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Michelucci
- Unit of Neurology, Bellaria Hospital, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Paladin
- Epilepsy Center, UOC Neurology, Ospedale Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Venice, Italy
| | - Giada Pauletto
- Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Marta Piccioli
- UOC Neurology, PO San Filippo Neri, ASL Roma 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Quadri
- USC Neurology, Epilepsy Center, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Federica Ranzato
- Epilepsy Centre, Neuroscience Department, S. Bortolo Hospital, Vicenza, Italy
| | - Rosario Rossi
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, San Francesco Hospital, 08100, Nuoro, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Terenzi
- Epilepsy Consultation Room, Neurology Unit, S. Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Tisei
- Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Neurology-University "La Sapienza", S. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavio Villani
- Clinical Epileptology and Experimental Neurophysiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vitali
- Neuroradiology and Brain MRI 3T Mondino Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Zaccara
- Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Via P Dazzi 1, 50141, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessia Zarabla
- Center for Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
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Julie DAR, Ahmed Z, Karceski SC, Pannullo SC, Schwartz TH, Parashar B, Wernicke AG. An overview of anti-epileptic therapy management of patients with malignant tumors of the brain undergoing radiation therapy. Seizure 2019; 70:30-37. [PMID: 31247400 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As our surgical, radiation, chemotherapeutic and supportive therapies for brain malignancies improve, and overall survival is prolonged, appropriate symptom management in this patient population becomes increasingly important. This review summarizes the published literature and current practice patterns regarding prophylactic and perioperative anti-epileptic drug use. As a wide range of anti-epileptic drugs is now available to providers, evidence guiding appropriate anticonvulsant choice is reviewed. A particular focus of this article is radiation therapy for brain malignancies. Toxicities and seizure risk associated with cranial irradiation will be discussed. Epilepsy management in patients undergoing radiation for gliomas, glioblastoma multiforme, and brain metastases will be addressed. An emerging but inconsistent body of evidence, reviewed here, indicates that anti-epileptic medications may increase radiosensitivity, and therefore improve clinical outcomes, specifically in glioblastoma multiforme patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana A R Julie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Stephen C Karceski
- Department of Neurology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Susan C Pannullo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Theodore H Schwartz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bhupesh Parashar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, United States
| | - A Gabriella Wernicke
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States; Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States.
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24
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Maschio M, Zarabla A, Maialetti A, Sperati F, Dinapoli L, Dispenza S, Petreri G, Cantelmi T. Lacosamide on background eeg activity in brain tumor-related epilepsy patients: A case series study. Brain Behav 2018; 8:e01067. [PMID: 30334378 PMCID: PMC6236258 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Therapeutic doses of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may alter EEG background activity, which is considered an index of the functional state of the brain. Quantitative analysis (qEEG) of EEG background activity is a valid instrument to assess the effects of many centrally active drugs on the central nervous system, including AEDs. Lacosamide (LCM) is a new AED that could be a valid therapeutic choice in patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE). METHODS We used qEEG to analyze the possible effect of LCM as an add-on, on background EEG activity after 4 months in patients with BTRE. RESULTS We consecutively recruited sixteen patients with BTRE: Five dropped out for disease progression, five for scarce compliance, and six completed the study. For these reasons qEEG was performed at first visit and after 4 months only in six patients. For all frequency bands, LCM revealed no changes of mean relative power during rest with eyes closed, hyperpnoea (HP), and mental arithmetic task (MA); significant increment was found only in the theta mean relative power during opening and closing eyes (BR). After four months of therapy with LCM, one patient was seizure free, four had a seizure reduction ≥50%, and one showed a worsening in seizure frequency <50%. CONCLUSION Despite the limitation of a small series, these findings suggest that LCM seems to have only a mild interference on EEG background activity and confirm that LCM has a good efficacy on seizure control in patients with BTRE. This is the first study that evaluates the effect of LCM on background EEG activity, using qEEG in BTRE patients. Future research in this area could include prospective studies with qEEG for a longer follow-up period to assess the impact of AEDs on brain functions in this particular fragile patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Maschio
- Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, UOSD Neurology, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Zarabla
- Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, UOSD Neurology, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Maialetti
- Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, UOSD Neurology, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sperati
- Biostatistics/Scientific Direction, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Dinapoli
- Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, UOSD Neurology, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Dispenza
- Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, UOSD Neurology, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Petreri
- Center for Tumor-related Epilepsy, UOSD Neurology, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Tonino Cantelmi
- Service of Psychiatry, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
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25
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Abstract
Lacosamide (Vimpat®) is a functionalized amino acid (available orally and intravenously) approved in the EU and the USA for use as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for the treatment of focal-onset seizures in adults, adolescents and children aged ≥ 4 years with epilepsy. In adults and adolescents (aged ≥ 16 years), oral lacosamide as adjunctive therapy to other antiepileptic drugs was generally effective in reducing seizure frequency during short-term (up to 18 weeks) treatment, with efficacy sustained over the longer-term (up to 8 years). Moreover, patients were effectively switched from adjunctive oral lacosamide to the same dosage of intravenous lacosamide. Oral lacosamide was an effective conversion to monotherapy agent in this patient population and as monotherapy demonstrated noninferiority to carbamazepine controlled release in terms of seizure freedom. Antiepileptic benefits were maintained during longer-term (≤ 2 years) monotherapy. The antiepileptic efficacy of lacosamide in children aged ≥ 4 years has been extrapolated from data from adults and adolescents, with a similar response expected provided paediatric dosage adaptations are used and safety is demonstrated. Indeed, preliminary data demonstrated the efficacy of short-term (16 weeks) adjunctive lacosamide in patients aged ≥ 4 to < 17 years. Oral lacosamide was generally well tolerated over the short- and longer-term when administered as adjunctive therapy, a conversion to monotherapy agent and monotherapy in adults and adolescents and when administered as adjunctive therapy in children aged ≥ 4 years. Thus, lacosamide is a useful option for the management of focal-onset seizures across a broad age range, starting as early as 4 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheridan M Hoy
- Springer, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland 0754, New Zealand.
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26
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Toledo M, Molins A, Quintana M, Santamarina E, Martinez-Ricarte F, Martínez-Saez E, Salas-Puig J. Outcome of cancer-related seizures in patients treated with lacosamide. Acta Neurol Scand 2018; 137:67-75. [PMID: 28832891 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lacosamide is an antiepileptic drug (AED), which has proven to be effective to control seizures, including acute conditions such as status epilepticus. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical experience with lacosamide in neuro-oncological patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Multicenter retrospective study in patients with cancer-related seizures, who received lacosamide as an add-on therapy. RESULTS Forty-eight patients with benign and malignant tumors, including primary brain tumors, lymphomas, systemic cancer with central nervous system involvement, or paraneoplastic encephalitis, were included. Lacosamide was effective in the control of chronic seizures in patients with either benign or malignant tumors. The success rate was greater in malignant tumors, and drug-resistant epilepsies were more likely associated with benign tumors. Adverse events occurred in nearly 70% of patients, particularly in acute conditions and associated with the concomitant use of radio-/chemotherapy. Lacosamide-related adverse events were more likely somnolence and dizziness, which usually resolved after dose adjustment. After starting lacosamide, nearly half of the patients discontinued one of the baseline AEDs and decreased or discontinued dexamethasone. Fifteen patients with status epilepticus were treated with intravenous lacosamide, and 73% of them had their condition resolved without serious drug-related adverse events. CONCLUSION Lacosamide is an AED to consider in cases of cancer-related seizures. Lacosamide pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics allow the achievement of responder rates over 50% with no serious adverse effects, amelioration of side effects from other AEDs or radio-/chemotherapy, and no significant drug interactions. Furthermore, the intravenous formulation shows clear benefits in acute conditions such as status epilepticus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Toledo
- Epilepsy Unit; Neurologý Department; Hospital Universitario Vall d′Hebron; Barcelona Spain
| | - A. Molins
- Epilepsy Unit; Neurology Department; Hospital Universitari Vall d′Hebron; Girona Spain
| | - M. Quintana
- Epilepsy Unit; Neurologý Department; Hospital Universitario Vall d′Hebron; Barcelona Spain
| | - E. Santamarina
- Epilepsy Unit; Neurologý Department; Hospital Universitario Vall d′Hebron; Barcelona Spain
| | - F. Martinez-Ricarte
- Neurosurgery Department; Hospital Universitario Vall d′Hebron; Barcelona Spain
| | - E. Martínez-Saez
- Neuropathology Department; Hospital Universitario Vall d′Hebron; Barcelona Spain
| | - J. Salas-Puig
- Epilepsy Unit; Neurologý Department; Hospital Universitario Vall d′Hebron; Barcelona Spain
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27
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Lacosamide in patients with gliomas and uncontrolled seizures: results from an observational study. J Neurooncol 2017; 136:105-114. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-017-2628-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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28
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Quality of life, mood and seizure control in patients with brain tumor related epilepsy treated with lacosamide as add-on therapy: A prospective explorative study with a historical control group. Epilepsy Behav 2017. [PMID: 28623754 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE) is often drug resistant and patients can be forced to take polytherapy that can adversely affect their quality of life (QoL). Lacosamide (LCM) is a new antiepileptic drug (AED) used as adjunctive therapy in patients with partial seizures with or without secondary generalization, with a favorable pharmacokinetic profile that seems to be effective and well tolerated. Therefore it represents a possible therapeutic choice for patients with BTRE. We propose a prospective study with a historical control group to evaluate the effect of LCM as add-on therapy on seizure control and quality of life in patients with BTRE. This study has been designed to test the superiority of Lacosamide over Levetiracetam as an add-on. We compared a prospective cohort of 25 patients treated with Lacosamide with a historical control group (n=19) treated with Levetiracetam as an add-on. METHODS We recruited 25 adult patients (M 18, F 7; mean age 41.9) affected by BTRE with uncontrolled partial-onset seizures treated with AED polytherapy. We added LCM as an add-on. Patients were evaluated at baseline, after 3months and at 6months. This population has been compared with a historical control group of 19 BTRE adult patients (M 13, F 6; median age 48.0, range: 28-70) with uncontrolled partial-onset seizures treated with LEV as add-on. The patients underwent QoL, mood and adverse events tests (Adverse Event Profile-AEP) and evaluation of seizure frequency. RESULTS Twelve patients had high grade gliomas, and thirteen had low grade gliomas. During follow-up, thirteen patients underwent chemotherapy, three radiotherapy and five patients had disease progression. Nine patients had simple partial seizures, eight had complex partial seizures, and eight had secondary generalized seizures. Fifteen patients were in monotherapy and ten in polytherapy with AEDs. LCM was added up to reach the maximum dosage of 400mg/die (mean final dose 300mg/die). Four patients dropped out due to poor compliance and 1 for inefficacy. In the historical control group treated with LEV (mean final dose 2000mg/die) 12 patients had high-grade gliomas, and 7 had low grade gliomas. Thirteen patients were in monotherapy and 6 in polytherapy with AEDs. In the 22 patients evaluable of 25 patients treated with LCM, we observed at final follow-up 7 patients seizure free, 12 with a significant reduction of seizures≥50%, 2 stable and 1 patient with number of seizures increased. Mean seizure frequency at baseline compared with baseline period: the mean number of seizures significantly decreased from baseline (9.4) to final follow-up (1.2) (P=0.005). The Responder Rate was 86.4%. Comparing responder rate of 22 evaluable patients with LCM with responder rate of 19 patients with LEV we didn't observe significant differences (p=0.31). In our patients treated with LCM we didn't observe significant difference at 3 and 6months in QoL tests results; we observe a significant reduction in the mean score of Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) and Barthel Index (BI) between baseline and 6months of follow-up (KPS p=0.003; BI p=0.007). No clinical side effects were observed. CONCLUSION Comparing the LCM with the historical group treated with LEV in add-on, we observed that LCM seems to have a higher clinical efficacy than LEV. In our patients, we did not observe any significant changes in QoL tests, indicating stability in all quality of life domains explored, despite the objective worsening in their functional status. Although this is a small series with a relatively short follow-up, our data indicates that LCM in add-on in patients with BTRE appears to be as effective as LEV in add-on, without impact on mood and quality of life.
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29
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Sepúlveda-Sánchez JM, Conde-Moreno A, Barón M, Pardo J, Reynés G, Belenguer A. Efficacy and tolerability of lacosamide for secondary epileptic seizures in patients with brain tumor: A multicenter, observational retrospective study. Oncol Lett 2017; 13:4093-4100. [PMID: 28599411 PMCID: PMC5452997 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.5988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The present observational, multicenter, retrospective study investigated the efficacy and tolerability of lacosamide in controlling secondary epileptic seizures in patients with brain tumors in Spain. Data from the medical records of patients ≥18 years of age with brain tumors, who had received at least one dose of lacosamide for seizure management between July 2013 and November 2013, were collected. The primary and secondary objectives of the present study were to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of lacosamide. Data from 39 patients (mean age, 54.1 years; 66.7% male) were collected, where the two main reasons for initiation of lacosamide treatment were the lack of efficacy of other antiepileptic drugs (in 76.9% of patients) and the presence of adverse events (12.8%) associated with other antiepileptic drugs. At the initiation of treatment, patients received a mean lacosamide dose of 138.5±68.3 mg/day. At 6 months, lacosamide had significantly reduced the mean number of seizures from 26.4 (standard deviation [SD], 50.4) seizures for the 6 months prior to lacosamide initiation to a mean of 9.4 (SD, 22.8) seizures during the 6 months subsequent to lacosamide initiation; P<0.001. Lacosamide was generally well tolerated; of the 25 patients who had complete safety data available at a 6-month follow-up, 3 patients (12%) reported an adverse event, including dizziness, asthenia, instability and irritability. The present retrospective analysis suggested that lacosamide is an effective and well-tolerated treatment in patients experiencing seizures due to brain tumors. Additional prospective studies with a larger patient population and randomized trial design are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Conde-Moreno
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Provincial de Castellón, 12002 Castellón, Spain
| | - Manuel Barón
- Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Pardo
- Hospital Universitario Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Madrid, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Infanta Elena, 28342 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gaspar Reynés
- Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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30
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Abstract
Patients with brain tumors and systemic malignancies are subject to diverse neurologic complications that require urgent evaluation and treatment. These neurologic conditions are commonly due to the tumor's direct effects on the nervous system, such as cerebral edema, increased intracranial pressure, seizures, spinal cord compression, and leptomeningeal metastases. In addition, neurologic complications can develop as a result of thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, hyperviscosity syndromes, infection, immune-related disorders, and adverse effects of treatment. Patients may present with typical disease syndromes. However, it is not uncommon for patients to have more subtle, nonlocalizing manifestations, such as alteration of mental status, that could be attributed to other systemic, nonneurologic complications. Furthermore, neurologic complications are at times the initial manifestations of an undiagnosed malignancy. Therefore a high index of suspicion is essential for rapid assessment and management. Timely intervention may prolong survival and improve quality of life. In this chapter, we will discuss the common neuro-oncologic emergencies, including epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Jo
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - D Schiff
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Villanueva V, Saiz-Diaz R, Toledo M, Piera A, Mauri JA, Rodriguez-Uranga JJ, López-González FJ, Gómez-Ibáñez A, Garcés M, González de la Aleja J, Rodríguez-Osorio X, Palao-Duarte S, Castillo A, Bonet M, Ruiz-Giménez J, Palau J, Arcediano A, Toledo M, Gago A. NEOPLASM study: Real-life use of lacosamide in patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 65:25-32. [PMID: 27863278 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The choice of antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy in patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE) is complicated, and there are a lack of robust clinical trial data to date. METHODS The NEOPLASM (Neuroncologic Patients treated with LAcoSaMide) study was a 6-month, multicenter, retrospective, observational study in patients with BTRE treated with lacosamide. Patients were started on lacosamide because of a lack of efficacy or adverse events (AEs) with prior AEDs or suitability versus other AEDs, according to clinical practice. The primary efficacy variable was the seizure-free rate at 6months. Safety variables included the proportion of patients with an AE and the proportion with an AE that led to discontinuation. RESULTS Overall, 105 patients from 14 hospital centers were included in the analysis. Treatment with lacosamide for 6months resulted in a 30.8% seizure-free rate, and 66.3% of patients had a ≥50% seizure reduction (responders). In the subset of patients included because of a lack of efficacy with prior AEDs, seizure-free rates were 28.0%, and 66.7% of patients were responders. No statistically significant differences in efficacy were observed according to the mechanism of action or enzyme-inducing properties of concomitant AEDs. Adverse events were reported by 41.9% of patients at 6months, and 4.7% of them led to discontinuation. The most common AEs were somnolence/fatigue and dizziness. Notably, 57.1% of the patients who were switched to lacosamide because of AEs with their previous therapy did not report any AE at 6-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In this open-label, observational study, lacosamide appeared to be effective and well tolerated in a large population of patients with BTRE. Lacosamide may therefore be a promising option for the treatment of patients with BTRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Villanueva
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Bulevard Sur, s/n, Carretera de Malilla, 46026 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Rosana Saiz-Diaz
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda de Córdoba, s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Toledo
- Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Passeig de la Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Piera
- Hospital Clínico Universitario Valencia, Spain
| | - Jose Angel Mauri
- Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Calle de San Juan Bosco, 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - Asier Gómez-Ibáñez
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Bulevard Sur, s/n, Carretera de Malilla, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Mercedes Garcés
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Bulevard Sur, s/n, Carretera de Malilla, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ascensión Castillo
- Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Av Tres Cruces, 2, 46014, Valencia, Spain
| | - Macarena Bonet
- Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, Calle San Clemente, 12, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jesús Ruiz-Giménez
- Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Avenida de las Fuerzas Armadas, 2, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Juan Palau
- Hospital Manises Avenidad Generalitat Valenciana, 46940 Manises, Spain
| | | | - Maria Toledo
- Hospital Universitario La Princesa Madrid, Calle Diego de León, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Gago
- Hospital Universitario La Princesa Madrid, Calle Diego de León, Madrid, Spain
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Huberfeld G, Vecht CJ. Seizures and gliomas — towards a single therapeutic approach. Nat Rev Neurol 2016; 12:204-16. [DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2016.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Abstract
Seizures are common in patients with brain tumors, and epilepsy can significantly impact patient quality of life. Therefore, a thorough understanding of rates and predictors of seizures, and the likelihood of seizure freedom after resection, is critical in the treatment of brain tumors. Among all tumor types, seizures are most common with glioneuronal tumors (70-80%), particularly in patients with frontotemporal or insular lesions. Seizures are also common in individuals with glioma, with the highest rates of epilepsy (60-75%) observed in patients with low-grade gliomas located in superficial cortical or insular regions. Approximately 20-50% of patients with meningioma and 20-35% of those with brain metastases also suffer from seizures. After tumor resection, approximately 60-90% are rendered seizure-free, with most favorable seizure outcomes seen in individuals with glioneuronal tumors. Gross total resection, earlier surgical therapy, and a lack of generalized seizures are common predictors of a favorable seizure outcome. With regard to anticonvulsant medication selection, evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of focal epilepsy should be followed, and individual patient factors should also be considered, including patient age, sex, organ dysfunction, comorbidity, or cotherapy. As concomitant chemotherapy commonly forms an essential part of glioma treatment, enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants should be avoided when possible. Seizure freedom is the ultimate goal in the treatment of brain tumor patients with epilepsy, given the adverse effects of seizures on quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario J Englot
- UCSF Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Edward F Chang
- UCSF Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Charles J Vecht
- Service Neurologie Mazarin, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.
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Gefroh-Grimes HA, Gidal BE. Antiepileptic drugs in patients with malignant brain tumor: beyond seizures and pharmacokinetics. Acta Neurol Scand 2016; 133:4-16. [PMID: 25996875 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In neurological malignancies, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are frequently used to control the seizure activity that accompanies the disorder. There is a growing body of evidence on the importance of AED selection for reasons other than pharmacokinetics (PK) properties. Epigenetic modifications may occur in glioblastomas, such as changes in gene methylation and histone acetylation states. Secondary mechanisms of AED drug action which impact these epigenetic modifications could play a significant role in patient survival outcomes. Both valproic acid (VPA) and carbamazepine have histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitory activities, and levetiracetam and VPA reduce the activity of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), a DNA-repair molecule implicated in resistance to alkylating agents used for chemotherapy. The use of AEDs for purposes other than seizure prophylaxis and their selection based on non-PK properties present a potential paradigm shift in the field of neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. A. Gefroh-Grimes
- Pharmacy Practice Division; School of Pharmacy; University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison WI USA
| | - B. E. Gidal
- School of Pharmacy & Department of Neurology; University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison WI USA
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Armstrong TS, Grant R, Gilbert MR, Lee JW, Norden AD. Epilepsy in glioma patients: mechanisms, management, and impact of anticonvulsant therapy. Neuro Oncol 2015; 18:779-89. [PMID: 26527735 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nov269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizures are a well-recognized symptom of primary brain tumors, and anticonvulsant use is common. This paper provides an overview of epilepsy and the use of anticonvulsants in glioma patients. Overall incidence and mechanisms of epileptogenesis are reviewed. Factors to consider with the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) including incidence during the disease trajectory and prophylaxis along with considerations in the selection of anticonvulsant use (ie, potential side effects, drug interactions, adverse effects, and impact on survival) are also reviewed. Finally, areas for future research and exploring the pathophysiology and use of AEDs in this population are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri S Armstrong
- Department of Family Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas (T.S.A.); Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Edinburgh, UK (R.G.); Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (M.R.G.); Division of EEG and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (J.W.L.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Division of Cancer Neurology, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (A.D.N.)
| | - Robin Grant
- Department of Family Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas (T.S.A.); Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Edinburgh, UK (R.G.); Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (M.R.G.); Division of EEG and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (J.W.L.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Division of Cancer Neurology, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (A.D.N.)
| | - Mark R Gilbert
- Department of Family Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas (T.S.A.); Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Edinburgh, UK (R.G.); Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (M.R.G.); Division of EEG and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (J.W.L.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Division of Cancer Neurology, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (A.D.N.)
| | - Jong Woo Lee
- Department of Family Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas (T.S.A.); Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Edinburgh, UK (R.G.); Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (M.R.G.); Division of EEG and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (J.W.L.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Division of Cancer Neurology, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (A.D.N.)
| | - Andrew D Norden
- Department of Family Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas (T.S.A.); Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Edinburgh, UK (R.G.); Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (M.R.G.); Division of EEG and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (J.W.L.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Division of Cancer Neurology, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (A.D.N.)
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Simonetti G, Gaviani P, Botturi A, Innocenti A, Lamperti E, Silvani A. Clinical management of grade III oligodendroglioma. Cancer Manag Res 2015; 7:213-23. [PMID: 26251628 PMCID: PMC4524382 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s56975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligodendrogliomas represent the third most common type of glioma, comprising 4%-15% of all gliomas and can be classified by degree of malignancy into grade II and grade III, according to WHO classification. Only 30% of oligodendroglial tumors have anaplastic characteristics. Anaplastic oligodendroglioma (AO) is often localized as a single lesion in the white matter and in the cortex, rarely in brainstem or spinal cord. The management of AO is deeply changed in the recent years. Maximal safe surgical resection followed by radiotherapy (RT) was considered as the standard of care since paramount findings regarding molecular aspects, in particular co-deletion of the short arm of chromosome 1 and the long arm of chromosome 19, revealed that these subsets of AO, benefit in terms of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), from the addition of chemotherapy to RT. Allelic losses of chromosomes 1p and 19q occur in 50%-70% of both low-grade and anaplastic tumors, representing a strong prognostic factor and a powerful predictor of prolonged survival. Several other molecular markers have potential clinical significance as IDH1 mutations, confirming the strong prognostic role for OS. Malignant brain tumors negatively impacts on patients' quality of life. Seizures, visual impairment, headache, and cognitive disorders can be present. Moreover, chemotherapy and RT have important side effects. For these reasons, "health-related quality of life" is becoming a topic of growing interest, investigating on physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Understanding the impact of medical treatment on health-related quality of life will probably have a growing effect both on health care strategies and on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Simonetti
- Neurooncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - P Gaviani
- Neurooncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - A Botturi
- Neurooncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - A Innocenti
- Neurooncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - E Lamperti
- Neurooncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - A Silvani
- Neurooncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Seizures represent a common symptom in low- and high-grade gliomas. Tumor location and histology influence the risk for epilepsy. Some molecular factors (BRAF V 600E mutations in glioneuronal tumors and IDH1/2 mutations in diffuse grade II and III gliomas) are molecular factors that are relevant for diagnosis and prognosis and have been associated with the risk of epilepsy as well. Glutamate plays a central role in epileptogenicity and growth of glial and glioneuronal tumors, based on the release of glutamate from tumor cells that enhances excitotoxicity, and a downregulation of the inhibitory GABAergic pathways. Several potential targets for therapy have been identified, and m-TOR inhibitors have already shown activity. Gross total resection is the strongest predictor of seizure freedom in addition to clinical factors, such as preoperative seizure duration, type, and control with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Radiotherapy and chemotherapy with alkylating agents (procarbazine, CCNU, vincristine, temozolomide) are effective in reducing the frequency of seizures in patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy. Newer AEDs (in particular levetiracetam and lacosamide) seem to be better tolerated than the old AEDs (phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine), but randomized clinical trials are needed to prove their superiority in terms of efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Rudà
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Torino, Italy,
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Schiff D, Lee EQ, Nayak L, Norden AD, Reardon DA, Wen PY. Medical management of brain tumors and the sequelae of treatment. Neuro Oncol 2015; 17:488-504. [PMID: 25358508 PMCID: PMC4483077 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nou304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with malignant brain tumors are prone to complications that negatively impact their quality of life and sometimes their overall survival as well. Tumors may directly provoke seizures, hypercoagulable states with resultant venous thromboembolism, and mood and cognitive disorders. Antitumor treatments and supportive therapies also produce side effects. In this review, we discuss major aspects of supportive care for patients with malignant brain tumors, with particular attention to management of seizures, venous thromboembolism, corticosteroids and their complications, chemotherapy including bevacizumab, and fatigue, mood, and cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eudocia Q. Lee
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, Virginia (D.S.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (E.Q.L., L.N., A.D.N., D.A.R., P.Y.W.)
| | - Lakshmi Nayak
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, Virginia (D.S.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (E.Q.L., L.N., A.D.N., D.A.R., P.Y.W.)
| | - Andrew D. Norden
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, Virginia (D.S.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (E.Q.L., L.N., A.D.N., D.A.R., P.Y.W.)
| | - David A. Reardon
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, Virginia (D.S.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (E.Q.L., L.N., A.D.N., D.A.R., P.Y.W.)
| | - Patrick Y. Wen
- Neuro-Oncology Center, University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, Virginia (D.S.); Center for Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (E.Q.L., L.N., A.D.N., D.A.R., P.Y.W.)
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Gertsch EA, Ullrich NJ. Seizures in children treated for a primary brain tumor: risk factors, evaluation and management. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.2217/fnl.14.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Seizures may be a presenting symptom of a brain tumor in childhood or can occur as a complication of treatment or subsequent effect occurring years after completion of therapy. Seizures create a number of therapeutic challenges and represent a significant comorbidity that results in decreased quality of life. Treatment options may be limited by interactions with chemotherapy and/or increased susceptibility to side effects. Moreover, seizures in this patient population may be less responsive to the traditional therapies typically effective for nontumor related epilepsy. While the pathophysiology of tumor-related epilepsy remains unclear, advances are being made in our understanding of the possible mechanisms involved. Newer anticonvulsants and improved diagnostic tools with refined surgical techniques show promise for future treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Gertsch
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children‘s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nicole J Ullrich
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children‘s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Vecht CJ, Kerkhof M, Duran-Pena A. Seizure prognosis in brain tumors: new insights and evidence-based management. Oncologist 2014; 19:751-9. [PMID: 24899645 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2014-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTE) is common in low- and high-grade gliomas. The risk of seizures varies between 60% and 100% among low-grade gliomas and between 40% and 60% in glioblastomas. The presence of seizures in patients with brain tumors implies favorable and unfavorable factors. New-onset seizures represent an early warning sign for the presence of a brain tumor and count as a good prognostic factor for survival. Recurrence or worsening of seizures during the course of disease may signal tumor progression. Each of the modalities for tumor control (i.e., surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy) contributes to seizure control. Nevertheless, one third of BTE shows pharmacoresistance to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and may severely impair the burden of living with a brain tumor. For symptomatic therapy of BTE, seizure type and individual patient factors determine the appropriate AED. Randomized controlled trials in partial epilepsy in adults to which type BTE belongs and additional studies in gliomas indicate that levetiracetam is the agent of choice, followed by valproic acid (VPA). In the case of recurring seizures, combining these two drugs (polytherapy) seems effective and possibly synergistic. If either one is not effective or not well tolerated, lacosamide, lamotrigine, or zonisamide are additional options. A new and exciting insight is the potential contribution of VPA to prolonged survival, particularly in glioblastomas. A practice guideline on symptomatic medical management including dose schedules of AEDs is supplied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles J Vecht
- Service Neurologie Mazarin, GH Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Department of Neurology, Medical Center The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Melissa Kerkhof
- Service Neurologie Mazarin, GH Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Department of Neurology, Medical Center The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Alberto Duran-Pena
- Service Neurologie Mazarin, GH Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Department of Neurology, Medical Center The Hague, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Seizures represent a major cause of morbidity in patients diagnosed with brain tumors. Seizures in patients with gliomas are disruptive, impact on quality of life; autonomy; the capacity to operate motor vehicles and opportunities for work. The management of seizures in patients with brain tumors is complex and ideally managed in a multidisciplinary fashion. In addition to antiepileptic drugs, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy have potential roles in the management of a glioma patient with intractable epilepsy. The successful management of seizures in patients with brain tumors is possible, it provides considerable benefits in terms of quality of life and should remain a central goal in patient management.
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Grassi L, Caruso R, Hammelef K, Nanni MG, Riba M. Efficacy and safety of pharmacotherapy in cancer-related psychiatric disorders across the trajectory of cancer care: a review. Int Rev Psychiatry 2014; 26:44-62. [PMID: 24716500 DOI: 10.3109/09540261.2013.842542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
At least 25-30% of patients with cancer and an even higher percentage of patients in an advanced phase of illness meet the criteria for a psychiatric diagnosis, including depression, anxiety, stress-related syndromes, adjustment disorders, sleep disorders and delirium. A number of studies have accumulated over the last 35 years on the use of psychotropic drugs as a pillar in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Major advances in psycho-oncology research have also shown the efficacy of psychotropic drugs as adjuvant treatment of cancer-related symptoms, such as pain, hot flushes, pruritus, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. The knowledge about pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, clinical use, safety, side effects and efficacy of psychotropic drugs in cancer care is essential for an integrated and multidimensional approach to patients treated in different settings, including community-based centres, oncology, and palliative care. A search of the major databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycLIT, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library) was conducted in order to summarize relevant data concerning the efficacy and safety of pharmacotherapy for cancer-related psychiatric disorders in cancer patients across the trajectory of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Grassi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
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Fonkem E, Bricker P, Mungall D, Aceves J, Ebwe E, Tang W, Kirmani B. The role of levetiracetam in treatment of seizures in brain tumor patients. Front Neurol 2013; 4:153. [PMID: 24109474 PMCID: PMC3791389 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2013.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam, trade name Keppra, is a new second generation antiepileptic drug that is being increasingly used in brain tumor patients. In patients suffering with brain tumors, seizures are one of the leading neurologic complications being seen in more than 30% of patients. Unlike other antiepileptic drugs, levetiracetam is proposed to bind to a synaptic vesicle protein inhibiting calcium release. Brain tumor patients are frequently on chemotherapy or other drugs that induce cytochrome P450, causing significant drug interactions. However, levetiracetam does not induce the P450 system and does not exhibit any relevant drug interactions. Intravenous delivery is as bioavailable as the oral medication allowing it to be used in emergency situations. Levetiracetam is an attractive option for brain tumor patients suffering from seizures, but also can be used prophylactically in patients with brain tumors, or patients undergoing neurological surgery. Emerging studies have also demonstrated that levetiracetam can increase the sensitivity of Glioblastoma tumors to the chemotherapy drug temozolomide. Levetiracetam is a safe alternative to conventional antiepileptic drugs and an emerging tool for brain tumor patients combating seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekokobe Fonkem
- The Brain Tumor Center, Scott & White Healthcare , Temple, TX , USA ; Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine , Temple, TX , USA
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Ikeda D, Chiocca EA. Editorial: Tumor and antiepileptic drugs. J Neurosurg 2013; 118:1181-2; discussion 1182. [DOI: 10.3171/2012.8.jns121332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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