1
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The Current State of Radiotherapy for Pediatric Brain Tumors: An Overview of Post-Radiotherapy Neurocognitive Decline and Outcomes. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12071050. [PMID: 35887547 PMCID: PMC9315742 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors of the central nervous system are the most common solid malignancies diagnosed in children. While common, they are also found to have some of the lowest survival rates of all malignancies. Treatment of childhood brain tumors often consists of operative gross total resection with adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The current body of literature is largely inconclusive regarding the overall benefit of adjuvant chemo- or radiotherapy. However, it is known that both are associated with conditions that lower the quality of life in children who undergo those treatments. Chemotherapy is often associated with nausea, emesis, significant fatigue, immunosuppression, and alopecia. While radiotherapy can be effective for achieving local control, it is associated with late effects such as endocrine dysfunction, secondary malignancy, and neurocognitive decline. Advancements in radiotherapy grant both an increase in lifetime survival and an increased lifetime for survivors to contend with these late effects. In this review, the authors examined all the published literature, analyzing the results of clinical trials, case series, and technical notes on patients undergoing radiotherapy for the treatment of tumors of the central nervous system with a focus on neurocognitive decline and survival outcomes.
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2
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Cabral de Carvalho Corrêa D, Tesser-Gamba F, Dias Oliveira I, Saba da Silva N, Capellano AM, de Seixas Alves MT, Benevides Silva FA, Dastoli PA, Cavalheiro S, Caminada de Toledo SR. Molecular profiling of pediatric and adolescent ependymomas: identification of genetic variants using a next-generation sequencing panel. J Neurooncol 2021; 155:13-23. [PMID: 34570300 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03848-x] [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: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ependymoma (EPN) accounts for approximately 10% of all primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors in children and in most cases, chemotherapy is ineffective and treatment remains challenging. We investigated molecular alterations, with a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target in EPNs of childhood and adolescence, using a next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel specific for pediatric neoplasms. METHODS We selected 61 samples with initial diagnosis of EPN from patients treated at Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC/UNIFESP. All samples were divided according to the anatomical compartment of the CNS - 42 posterior fossa (PF), 14 supratentorial (ST), and five spinal (SP). NGS was performed to identify somatic genetic variants in tumor samples using the Oncomine Childhood Cancer Research Assay® (OCCRA®) panel, from Thermo Fisher Scientific®. RESULTS Genetic variants were identified in 24 of 61 (39.3%) tumors and over 90% of all variants were pathogenic or likely pathogenic. The most commonly variants detected were in CIC, ASXL1, and JAK2 genes and have not been reported in EPN yet. MN1-BEND2 fusion, alteration recently described in a new CNS tumor type, was identified in one ST sample that was reclassified as astroblastoma. Additionally, YAP1-MAMLD1 fusion, a rare event associated with good outcome in ST-EPN, was observed in two patients diagnosed under 2 years old. CONCLUSIONS Molecular profiling by the OCCRA® panel showed novel alterations in pediatric and adolescent EPNs, which highlights the clinical importance in identifying genetic variants for patients' prognosis and therapeutic orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Cabral de Carvalho Corrêa
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Division of Genetics, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Francine Tesser-Gamba
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Indhira Dias Oliveira
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Nasjla Saba da Silva
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Andrea Maria Capellano
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Teresa de Seixas Alves
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Pathology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Frederico Adolfo Benevides Silva
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Alessandra Dastoli
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Cavalheiro
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvia Regina Caminada de Toledo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. .,Division of Genetics, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. .,Pediatric Oncology Institute-Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer/Federal University of Sao Paulo (IOP-GRAACC/UNIFESP), 743 Botucatu Street, 8th Floor - Genetics Laboratory, Vila Clementino, Sao Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil.
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3
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Targeted Therapy with Sirolimus and Nivolumab in a Child with Refractory Multifocal Anaplastic Ependymoma. REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/reports4020012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric ependymoma (EPN) is the third most common central nervous system (CNS) tumor, with 90% arising intracranially. Management typically involves maximal surgical resection and radiotherapy, but patients’ outcome is poor. Moreover, there are only a few therapeutical options available for recurrent or refractory disease. In this report, we present the case of a 7-year-old girl with relapsed refractory multifocal grade III EPN who failed conventional treatments and experienced a stable and durable response to the immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICPI) nivolumab in association with the mammalian target of rapamycin (m-TOR) inhibitor sirolimus. This experimental therapy was targeted on immune phenotypical analyses of the patient’s last relapse tumor sample, and this procedure should be routinely done to find new possible therapeutical approaches in recurrent solid tumors.
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4
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Shah SN, Al-Dandan SW, Shuja M, Balbaid A, Bashir M, Alharbi M. Survival after therapy for pediatric ependymoma in a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia. Ann Saudi Med 2020; 40:482-490. [PMID: 33307736 PMCID: PMC7733644 DOI: 10.5144/0256-4947.2020.482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited data from Saudi Arabia on the demographic characteristics, outcomes and effectiveness of different treatment modalities in children with intracranial ependymoma. OBJECTIVE Study the characteristics of pediatric ependymoma and outcomes of treatment modalities in Saudi Arabia. DESIGN Retrospective. SETTING Tertiary care center. PATIENTS AND METHODS Children with intracranial ependymoma who were younger than 14 years of age and treated between 2006 and 2015 were included in the study. Patients with prior radiation, chemo-therapy, or surgical resection at other centers were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to estimate the event-free (EFS) and overall survival (OS) rates of the patients. SAMPLE SIZE 22. RESULTS Of the 22 children, 4 (18.2%) were less than three years old. All intracranial ependymomas had upfront surgical resection of the primary tumor. Gross total resection was achievable in 9 (42.9%) cases and subtotal resection in another 9 (42.9%). Near-total resection was done in 3 (14.3%) cases. Median time from surgery to start of radiotherapy was 62 days. RT was given to 17 (77.3%) patients. Both mean and median RT dose was 55.8 Gy. Only 5 (22.7%) of the children received chemotherapy. The median duration of follow-up was 5.38 years and the median time for EFS was 2.27 years. The cumulative OS rate of the study was 44.5%. The cumulative EFS survival rate of the study was 18.6%. Among demographic, pathological, radiological features, none had a statistically significant effect on the survival. CONCLUSIONS The outcomes are comparable to those reported by international investigators for similar populations. Further improvements can be achieved by avoiding delays in radiation therapy and adding molecular staging. LIMITATIONS The limited number of cases, retrospective nature, lack of molecular biology and size of the tumors. CONFLICT OF INTEREST None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Nizam Shah
- From the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sadeq Wasil Al-Dandan
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Shuja
- From the Department of Radiation Oncology, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Balbaid
- From the Department of Radiation Oncology, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Bashir
- From the Research Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Musa Alharbi
- From the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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5
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Schepke E, Tisell M, Kennedy C, Puget S, Ferroli P, Chevignard M, Doz F, Pizer B, Rutkowski S, Massimino M, Navajas A, Schwalbe E, Hicks D, Clifford SC, Pietsch T, Lannering B. Effects of the growth pattern of medulloblastoma on short-term neurological impairments after surgery: results from the prospective multicenter HIT-SIOP PNET 4 study. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2020; 25:425-433. [PMID: 31952041 DOI: 10.3171/2019.11.peds19349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Extensive resection of a tumor in the posterior fossa in children is associated with the risk of neurological deficits. The objective of this study was to prospectively evaluate the short-term neurological morbidity in children after medulloblastoma surgery and relate this to the tumor's growth pattern and to the extent of resection. METHODS In 160 patients taking part in the HIT-SIOP PNET 4 (Hyperfractionated Versus Conventionally Fractionated Radiotherapy in Standard Risk Medulloblastoma) trial, neurosurgeons prospectively responded to questions concerning the growth pattern of the tumor they had resected. The extent of resection (gross, near, or subtotal) was evaluated using MRI. The patients' neurological status before resection and around 30 days after resection was recorded. RESULTS Invasive tumor growth, defined as local invasion in the brain or meninges, cranial nerve, or major vessel, was reported in 58% of the patients. After surgery almost 70% of all patients were affected by one or several neurological impairments (e.g., impaired vision, impaired extraocular movements, and ataxia). However, this figure was very similar to the preoperative findings. Invasive tumor growth implied a significantly higher number of impairments after surgery (p = 0.03) and greater deterioration regarding extraocular movements (p = 0.012), facial weakness (p = 0.048), and ataxia in the arms (p = 0.014) and trunk (p = 0.025) compared with noninvasive tumor growth. This deterioration was not dependent on the extent of resection performed. Progression-free survival (PFS) at 5 years was 80% ± 4% and 76% ± 5% for patients with invasive and noninvasive tumor growth, respectively, with no difference in the 5-year PFS for extent of resection. CONCLUSIONS Preoperative neurological impairments and invasive tumor growth were strong predictors of deterioration in short-term neurological outcome after medulloblastoma neurosurgery, whereas the extent of resection was not. Neither tumor invasiveness nor extent of resection influenced PFS. These findings support the continuation of maximal safe resection in medulloblastoma surgery where functional risks are not taken in areas with tumor invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Schepke
- 1Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg
- 2Department of Pediatrics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg
| | - Magnus Tisell
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and
- 4Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Colin Kennedy
- 5University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Southampton National Health Service Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Puget
- 6Département de Neurochirurgie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Université, Paris, France
| | - Paolo Ferroli
- 7Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Mathilde Chevignard
- 8Rehabilitation Department for Children with Acquired Neurological Injury, Saint Maurice Hospitals, Saint Maurice
- 9Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale and
- 10GRC 24 HaMCRe, Sorbonne Université, Paris
| | - François Doz
- 11SIREDO Cancer Center (Care, Innovation & Research, in Childhood, Adolescent and Young-Adult Oncology), Institut Curie Paris
- 12Department of Pediatrics, University Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Barry Pizer
- 13Department of Oncology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- 14Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maura Massimino
- 15Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Edward Schwalbe
- 17Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
- 18Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Debbie Hicks
- 17Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
| | - Steven C Clifford
- 17Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
| | - Torsten Pietsch
- 19Institute of Neuropathology, DGNN Brain Tumour Reference Center, University of Bonn, Germany; and
| | - Birgitta Lannering
- 20Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Germany
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6
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Abstract
Even though the treatment of childhood cancer has evolved significantly in recent decades, aggressive central nervous system (CNS) tumors are still a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. Consequently, the identification of molecular targets that can be incorporated into diagnostic practice, effectively predict prognosis, follow treatment response, and materialize into potential targeted therapeutic approaches are still warranted. Since the first evidence of the participation of miRNAs in cancer development and progression 20 years ago, notable progress has been made in the basic understanding of the contribution of their dysregulation as epigenetic driver of tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, among the plethora of articles in the literature, microRNA profiling of pediatric tumors are scarce. This article gives an overview of the recent advances in the diagnostic/prognostic potential of miRNAs in a selection of pediatric CNS tumors: medulloblastoma, ependymoma, pilocytic astrocytoma, glioblastoma, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors, and choroid plexus tumors.
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7
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Byer L, Kline CN, Coleman C, Allen IE, Whitaker E, Mueller S. A systematic review and meta-analysis of outcomes in pediatric, recurrent ependymoma. J Neurooncol 2019; 144:445-452. [PMID: 31502040 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-019-03255-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine outcomes in recurrent pediatric ependymoma. METHODS We performed a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting on survival outcomes for pediatric patients with recurrent ependymoma. We then performed a meta-analysis of all eligible results. Survival outcomes were identified across location of recurrence, therapy at recurrence, and age at recurrence. RESULTS Eleven studies met final inclusion criteria. Pooled median progression free survival (PFS) from date of first recurrence was 6.7 months (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 4.7-8.8). Pooled median overall survival (OS) from date of first recurrence was 11.2 months (95% CI 6.4-16.0). Participants with supratentorial recurrences demonstrated a shorter OS of 8.3 months (95% CI 3.2-13.3) compared to 20.1 months (95% CI 8.4-31.7) for those with infratentorial recurrence. Patients who underwent surgery at recurrence had a median OS of 24.2 months (95% CI 14.2-34.1) compared to 29.2 months (95% CI 17.4-41.1) in those who received radiation compared to 19.3 months (95% CI 10.3-28.3) in those who received chemotherapy. Patients younger than age 3 years at time of recurrence demonstrated a median OS of 31.0 months (95% CI - 25.3-87.3) compared to 17.5 months (95% CI 9.9-25.2) for those that recurred beyond 3 years of age. CONCLUSIONS Our findings illustrate that children with recurrent ependymoma suffer from poor outcomes; however, these outcomes range widely depending on patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics. New therapies and treatment strategies are needed to improve outcomes in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennox Byer
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Cassie N Kline
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, 4th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, Box 0434, 625 Nelson Rising Lane, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Christina Coleman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, 747 52nd Street, Oakland, CA, 94609, USA
| | - Isabel E Allen
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Evans Whitaker
- UCSF Health Sciences Library, University of California, San Francisco, 530 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Sabine Mueller
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, Box 0434, 625 Nelson Rising Lane, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, 747 52nd Street, Oakland, CA, 94609, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, M779, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- University Children's Hospital Zuerich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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8
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Speckle modulation enables high-resolution wide-field human brain tumor margin detection and in vivo murine neuroimaging. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10388. [PMID: 31316099 PMCID: PMC6637128 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45902-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Current in vivo neuroimaging techniques provide limited field of view or spatial resolution and often require exogenous contrast. These limitations prohibit detailed structural imaging across wide fields of view and hinder intraoperative tumor margin detection. Here we present a novel neuroimaging technique, speckle-modulating optical coherence tomography (SM-OCT), which allows us to image the brains of live mice and ex vivo human samples with unprecedented resolution and wide field of view using only endogenous contrast. The increased visibility provided by speckle elimination reveals white matter fascicles and cortical layer architecture in brains of live mice. To our knowledge, the data reported herein represents the highest resolution imaging of murine white matter structure achieved in vivo across a wide field of view of several millimeters. When applied to an orthotopic murine glioblastoma xenograft model, SM-OCT readily identifies brain tumor margins with resolution of approximately 10 μm. SM-OCT of ex vivo human temporal lobe tissue reveals fine structures including cortical layers and myelinated axons. Finally, when applied to an ex vivo sample of a low-grade glioma resection margin, SM-OCT is able to resolve the brain tumor margin. Based on these findings, SM-OCT represents a novel approach for intraoperative tumor margin detection and in vivo neuroimaging.
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9
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Thomas S, Reynolds D, Morrall MCHJ, Limond J, Chevignard M, Calaminus G, Poggi G, Bennett E, Frappaz D, Slade D, Gautier J, McQuilton P, Massimino M, Grundy R. The European Society of Paediatric Oncology Ependymoma-II program Core-Plus model: Development and initial implementation of a cognitive test protocol for an international brain tumour trial. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2019; 23:560-570. [PMID: 31182404 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
It is increasingly accepted that survival alone is an inadequate measure of the success of childhood brain tumour treatments. Consequently, there is growing emphasis on capturing quality of survival. Ependymomas are the third most frequently occurring brain tumours in childhood and present significant clinical challenges. European Society of Paediatric Oncology Ependymoma II is a comprehensive international program aiming to evaluate outcomes under different treatment regimens and improve diagnostic accuracy. Importantly, there has been agreement to lower the age at which children with posterior fossa ependymoma undergo focal irradiation from three years to either eighteen months or one year of age. Hitherto radiotherapy in Europe had been reserved for children over three years due to concerns over adverse cognitive outcomes following irradiation of the developing brain. There is therefore a duty of care to include longitudinal cognitive follow-up and this has been agreed as an essential trial outcome. Discussions between representatives of 18 participating European countries over 10 years have yielded European consensus for an internationally accepted test battery for follow-up of childhood ependymoma survivors. The 'Core-Plus' model incorporates a two-tier approach to assessment by specifying core tests to establish a minimum dataset where resources are limited, whilst maintaining scope for comprehensive assessment where feasible. The challenges leading to the development of the Core-Plus model are presented alongside learning from the initial stages of the trial. We propose that this model could provide a solution for future international trials addressing both childhood brain tumours and other conditions associated with cognitive morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Thomas
- Department of Paediatric Neuropsychology, Nottingham Children's Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK; Child Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - D Reynolds
- Department of Paediatric Neuropsychology, Nottingham Children's Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK; Child Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - M C H J Morrall
- Department of Paediatric Neuropsychology, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, LS1 3EX, UK
| | - J Limond
- Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Washington Singer Laboratories, University of Exeter, Perry Road, EX4 4QG, UK
| | - M Chevignard
- Rehabilitation Department for Children with Acquired Neurological Injury, Saint Maurice Hospitals, 14, rue du Val d'Osne, 94410, Saint Maurice, France; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale, LIB, 75006 Paris, France
| | - G Calaminus
- University Children's Hospital Bonn, Adenauerallee 119, 53113, Bonn, Germany
| | - G Poggi
- Neuro-Oncological Rehabilitation Unit- IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - E Bennett
- Department of Paediatric Neuropsychology, Nottingham Children's Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - D Frappaz
- Institut d'Hématologie Oncologie pédiatrique, Lyon, France
| | - D Slade
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit (CRCTU), Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - J Gautier
- Institut d'Hématologie Oncologie pédiatrique, Lyon, France
| | - P McQuilton
- Department of Paediatric Neuropsychology, Nottingham Children's Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK; Child Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - M Massimino
- Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - R Grundy
- Child Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
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10
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Tensaouti F, Ducassou A, Chaltiel L, Bolle S, Habrand JL, Alapetite C, Coche-Dequeant B, Bernier V, Claude L, Carrie C, Padovani L, Muracciole X, Supiot S, Huchet A, Leseur J, Kerr C, Hangard G, Lisbona A, Goudjil F, Ferrand R, Laprie A. Feasibility of Dose Escalation in Patients With Intracranial Pediatric Ependymoma. Front Oncol 2019; 9:531. [PMID: 31293971 PMCID: PMC6598548 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: Pediatric ependymoma carries a dismal prognosis, mainly owing to local relapse within RT fields. The current prospective European approach is to increase the radiation dose with a sequential hypofractionated stereotactic boost. In this study, we assessed the possibility of using a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB), comparing VMAT vs. IMPT dose delivery. Material and methods: The cohort included 101 patients. The dose to planning target volume (PTV59.4) was 59.4/1.8 Gy, and the dose to SIB volume (PTV67.6) was 67.6/2.05 Gy. Gross tumor volume (GTV) was defined as the tumor bed plus residual tumor, clinical target volume (CTV59.4) was GTV + 5 mm, and PTV59.4 was CTV59.4 + 3 mm. PTV67.6 was GTV+ 3 mm. After treatment plan optimization, quality indices and doses to target volume and organs at risk (OARs) were extracted and compared with the standard radiation doses that were actually delivered (median = 59.4 Gy [50.4 59.4]). Results: In most cases, the proton treatment resulted in higher quality indices (p < 0.001). Compared with the doses that were initially delivered, mean, and maximum doses to some OARs were no higher with SIB VMAT, and significantly lower with protons (p < 0.001). In the case of posterior fossa tumor, there was a lower dose to the brainstem with protons, in terms of V59 Gy, mean, and near-maximum (D2%) doses. Conclusion: Dose escalation with intensity-modulated proton or photon SIB is feasible in some patients. This approach could be considered for children with unresectable residue or post-operative FLAIR abnormalities, particularly if they have supratentorial tumors. It should not be considered for infratentorial tumors encasing the brainstem or extending to the medulla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Tensaouti
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Universite de Toulouse, Inserm, Toulouse, France
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du, Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne Ducassou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du, Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Léonor Chaltiel
- Department of Biostatistics, Institut Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphanie Bolle
- Department of Radiotherapy Oncology, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Jean Louis Habrand
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Francois Baclesse, Caen, France
| | | | | | - Valérie Bernier
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Alexis Vautrin, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Line Claude
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Christian Carrie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | | | | | - Stéphane Supiot
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut de Cancerologie de l'Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Aymeri Huchet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Bordeaux, France
| | - Julie Leseur
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Eugéne Marquis, Rennes, France
| | - Christine Kerr
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut Regional du Cancer Montpellier, Val d'Aurelle, Montpellier, France
| | - Grégorie Hangard
- Department of Engineering and Medical Physics, Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Albert Lisbona
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut de Cancerologie de l'Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Farid Goudjil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Régis Ferrand
- Department of Engineering and Medical Physics, Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne Laprie
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Universite de Toulouse, Inserm, Toulouse, France
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du, Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
- Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
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11
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Review of ependymomas: assessment of consensus in pathological diagnosis and correlations with genetic profiles and outcome. Brain Tumor Pathol 2019; 36:92-101. [PMID: 30929114 DOI: 10.1007/s10014-019-00338-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
We focused on histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of ependymoma (EPN) with molecular profiles to develop more reproducible criteria of the diagnosis. Three expert neuropathologists reviewed the pathology of 130 samples from the Japan Pediatric Molecular Neuro-Oncology Group study. Confirmed cases were assessed for histology, surrogate markers, molecular subgrouping, and survival data. We reached a consensus regarding the diagnosis of EPNs in 100% of spinal cord tumors and 93% of posterior fossa (PF) tumors that had been diagnosed as EPNs by local pathologists, whereas we reached a consensus regarding only 77% of the local diagnosis of supratentorial (ST) EPNs. Among the PF-EPNs, most of anaplastic ependymomas (AEPNs) were defined as EPN-A by methylation profiling, which was significantly correlated with the subgroup assignment. Regarding prognosis, the overall survival of patients with PF-EPN was significantly better than that of patients with PF AEPN (p = 0.01). Histologically, all ependymoma, RELA fusion-positive (EPN-RELA) qualified as Grade III. Both L1 cell adhesion molecule and nuclear factor kappaB p65 antibodies showed good sensitivity for detecting EPN-RELA. This study indicated that the expert consensus pathological diagnosis could correlate well with the molecular classifications in EPNs. ST EPNs should be diagnosed more carefully by histological and molecular analyses.
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12
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Yecies D, Liba O, Zerda ADL, Grant GA. Intraoperative Imaging Modalities and the Potential Role of Speckle Modulating Optical Coherence Tomography. Neurosurgery 2018; 65:74-77. [PMID: 31076788 DOI: 10.1093/neuros/nyy199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Derek Yecies
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stan-ford University, Stanford, California
| | - Orly Liba
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Molecular Imaging Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Adam de la Zerda
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Molecular Imaging Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,Biophysics Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California.,The Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California
| | - Gerald A Grant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stan-ford University, Stanford, California
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13
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Proton therapy for pediatric malignancies: Fact, figures and costs. A joint consensus statement from the pediatric subcommittee of PTCOG, PROS and EPTN. Radiother Oncol 2018; 128:44-55. [PMID: 29937209 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Radiotherapy plays an important role in the management of childhood cancer, with the primary aim of achieving the highest likelihood of cure with the lowest risk of radiation-induced morbidity. Proton therapy (PT) provides an undisputable advantage by reducing the radiation 'bath' dose delivered to non-target structures/volume while optimally covering the tumor with tumoricidal dose. This treatment modality comes, however, with an additional costs compared to conventional radiotherapy that could put substantial financial pressure to the health care systems with societal implications. In this review we assess the data available to the oncology community of PT delivered to children with cancer, discuss on the urgency to develop high-quality data. Additionally, we look at the advantage of combining systemic agents with protons and look at the cost-effectiveness data published so far.
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14
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Lee JW, Lim DH, Sung KW, Lee HJ, Yi ES, Yoo KH, Koo HH, Suh YL, Shin HJ. Multimodal treatment including tandem high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation in children with anaplastic ependymomas. Pediatr Transplant 2018; 22:e13127. [PMID: 29453811 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the results of multimodal treatment that included tandem HDCT/auto-SCT in children with anaplastic ependymomas. Fourteen patients with anaplastic ependymomas were enrolled from 2006 to 2014. Six cycles of induction chemotherapy were administered to all patients before they underwent tandem HDCT/auto-SCT. Patients who were older than 3 years of age were administered RT after two cycles of induction chemotherapy. In patients under 3 years of age, RT was either omitted or delayed until they reached 3 years of age, if the patients experienced CR after tandem HDCT/auto-SCT. All patients, including two who experienced disease progression during induction treatment, underwent the first HDCT/auto-SCT, and 13 subsequently underwent the second HDCT/auto-SCT. One patient died from hepatic VOD during the second HDCT/auto-SCT; other toxicities occurring during tandem HDCT/auto-SCT were manageable. Relapses or progression occurred in seven patients, and five of seven of them remain alive till date after salvage treatment, including surgery and RT. The 5-year overall and event-free survival rates were 85.1% ± 9.7% and 50.0% ± 13.4%, respectively. These findings suggest that multimodal treatment including tandem HDCT/auto-SCT could be a feasible option for improving survival in children with anaplastic ependymomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Won Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Hoon Lim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Woong Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Jin Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sang Yi
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon Hee Yoo
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Hoe Koo
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Lim Suh
- Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Jin Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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15
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Indelicato DJ, Bradley JA, Rotondo RL, Nanda RH, Logie N, Sandler ES, Aldana PR, Ranalli NJ, Beier AD, Morris CG, Mendenhall NP. Outcomes following proton therapy for pediatric ependymoma. Acta Oncol 2018; 57:644-648. [PMID: 29239262 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2017.1413248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proton therapy can reduce the low and intermediate radiation dose to uninvolved brain tissue in children with intracranial ependymomas, which may improve functional outcomes and reduce second malignancies in survivors. Accordingly, ependymoma has become the most common pediatric tumor treated with proton therapy, yet data on efficacy and toxicity are limited. MATERIAL AND METHODS Between June 2007 and February 2017, 179 children (≤21 years old) with nonmetastatic grade II/III intracranial ependymoma received proton therapy at our institution. Median age, 3.5 years (range, 0.7-21); 58% were male. Most (66%) tumors were in the posterior fossa and classified as WHO grade III (67%). 27% underwent multiple operations to maximize the extent of resection; ultimately 85% had a gross total or near total tumor resection before radiotherapy. 33% received preradiation chemotherapy. Median radiation dose in children ≤3 years old, 54 Gy(RBE). Most (>90%) children over 3 years old received 59.4 Gy(RBE). Patient and treatment variables were assessed for correlation with disease control. RESULTS Median follow-up, 3.2 years. 3-year local control, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 85%, 76%, and 90%, respectively. First site of progression was local, metastatic, or simultaneous in 14, 17 and 6 patients, respectively. On multivariate analysis, subtotal resection was associated with inferior local control (67% vs. 88%; p ≤ .01) and progression-free survival (59% vs. 79%; p < .05). Male sex was associated with inferior progression-free (67% vs. 87%; p< .05) and overall survival (84% vs. 99%; p < .01). The 3-year CTCAE grade 2 + brainstem toxicity rate was 5.5% (95% CI: 2.9-10.2), including 1 grade 5 toxicity. CONCLUSIONS This series of proton therapy for pediatric intracranial ependymoma demonstrates disease control comparable to photon series without unexpected toxicity. Subtotal resection and male sex were associated with inferior disease control. Additional follow-up to quantify the expected reductions in late toxicity with proton therapy is ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Indelicato
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Julie A. Bradley
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Ronny L. Rotondo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Ronica H. Nanda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Natalie Logie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Eric S. Sandler
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Philipp R. Aldana
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Nathan J. Ranalli
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Alexandra D. Beier
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Christopher G. Morris
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Nancy P. Mendenhall
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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16
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De B, Khakoo Y, Souweidane MM, Dunkel IJ, Patel SH, Gilheeney SW, De Braganca KC, Karajannis MA, Wolden SL. Patterns of relapse for children with localized intracranial ependymoma. J Neurooncol 2018; 138:435-445. [PMID: 29511977 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-018-2815-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
We examined patterns of relapse and prognostic factors in children with intracranial ependymoma. Records of 82 children diagnosed with localized intracranial ependymoma were reviewed. 52% first presented to our institution after relapse. Median age at initial diagnosis was 4 years (range 0-18 years). Gender was 55% male. Initial tumor location was infratentorial in 71% and supratentorial in 29%. Histology was WHO Grade II in 32% and Grade III in 68%. As part of definitive management, 99% had surgery, 70% received RT (26% 2D/3D-conformal RT[CRT], 22% intensity-modulated RT [IMRT], 22% proton), and 37% received chemotherapy. Median follow-up was 4.6 years (range 0.2-32.9). Overall, 74% of patients relapsed (50% local, 17% distant, 7% local + distant) at a median 1.5 (range 0.1-17.5) years. Five-year OS and FFS for patients presenting prior to relapse are 70% (95% confidence interval [CI], 50-83%) and 48% (95% CI 30-64%), respectively. On log-rank, superior overall survival (OS) was demonstrated for gross total resection (p = 0.03). Superior failure-free survival (FFS) was demonstrated for age < 5 years (p = 0.04). No difference in OS or FFS was found between 2D/3D-CRT versus IMRT/proton (p > 0.05). On multivariate analysis, age ≤ 5 was independently associated with a lower risk of death and failure versus older patients (p < 0.05). Contrary to previous reports, young age may not be a poor prognostic factor in patients who can tolerate intensive treatment. Future studies examining patients stratified by clinical and molecular attributes are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian De
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Yasmin Khakoo
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark M Souweidane
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ira J Dunkel
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suchit H Patel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Stephen W Gilheeney
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin C De Braganca
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Suzanne L Wolden
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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17
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Chai YH, Jung S, Lee JK, Kim IY, Jang WY, Moon KS, Kim JH, Lee KH, Kim SK, Jung TY. Ependymomas: Prognostic Factors and Outcome Analysis in a Retrospective Series of 33 Patients. Brain Tumor Res Treat 2017; 5:70-76. [PMID: 29188207 PMCID: PMC5700030 DOI: 10.14791/btrt.2017.5.2.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic factors and outcomes in patients with ependymoma to management plans. Methods Between 1997 and 2013, 33 patients with 25 ependymomas (WHO grade II) and eight anaplastic ependymomas (WHO grade III) were pathologically diagnosed. Six were pediatric patients (mean age, 6.15 years; range, 1.3–11 years), while 27 were adults (mean age, 47.5 years; range, 19–70 years). Of those, there were 12 adult patients with totally resected ependymomas without anaplastic pathology and adjuvant treatment. Prognostic factors were assessed in ependymoma patients. Prognostic factors were studied using Kaplan-Meier estimates in subgroups. Results For six pediatric patients, the progression-free survival (PFS) was 43.7±13.5 months, and the overall survival (OS) was 58.1±13.7 months. For 27 adult patients, the PFS was 125.6±14.3 months, and the OS was 151.2±12.5 months. Age demonstrated a statistically significant effect on PFS (p=0.03) and OS (p=0.03). In adult ependymomas, the extent of tumor removal significantly affected PFS (p=0.03) and trended towards an effect on OS (p=0.06). Out of 12 patients with totally resected ependymomas without anaplastic pathology and adjuvant treatment, one patient showed tumor recurrence during follow-up (mean, 93.5 months; range, 27.9–162.7 months). Conclusion Adult patients with ependymomas were found to have better survival rates compared to pediatric patients. We suggest that totally resected adult ependymomas without anaplastic pathology could be observed without any adjuvant treatment, regardless of the tumor location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Hyun Chai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Shin Jung
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Jung-Kil Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - In-Young Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Woo-Youl Jang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Kyung-Sub Moon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Jae-Hyoo Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Kyung-Hwa Lee
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Seul-Kee Kim
- Department of Radiology, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Tae-Young Jung
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital & Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
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18
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Rethinking childhood ependymoma: a retrospective, multi-center analysis reveals poor long-term overall survival. J Neurooncol 2017; 135:201-211. [PMID: 28733870 PMCID: PMC5658456 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-017-2568-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ependymoma is the third most common brain tumor in children, but there is a paucity of large studies with more than 10 years of follow-up examining the long-term survival and recurrence patterns of this disease. We conducted a retrospective chart review of 103 pediatric patients with WHO Grades II/III intracranial ependymoma, who were treated at Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Chicago’s Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital between 1985 and 2008, and an additional 360 ependymoma patients identified from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. For the institutional cohort, we evaluated clinical and histopathological prognostic factors of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) using the log-rank test, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards models. Overall survival rates were compared to those of the SEER cohort. Median follow-up time was 11 years. Ten-year OS and PFS were 50 ± 5% and 29 ± 5%, respectively. Findings were validated in the independent SEER cohort, with 10-year OS rates of 52 ± 3%. GTR and grade II pathology were associated with significantly improved OS. However, GTR was not curative for all children. Ten-year OS for patients treated with a GTR was 61 ± 7% and PFS was 36 ± 6%. Pathological examination confirmed most recurrent tumors to be ependymoma, and 74% occurred at the primary tumor site. Current treatment paradigms are not sufficient to provide long-term cure for children with ependymoma. Our findings highlight the urgent need to develop novel treatment approaches for this devastating disease.
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19
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Rootman MS, Konen O, Fried I, Toledano H. Preferential sites of metastatic relapse on MRI of initially localized ependymoma in children. Clin Imaging 2017; 44:12-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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20
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Chowdhary S, Damlo S, Chamberlain MC. Cerebrospinal Fluid Dissemination and Neoplastic Meningitis in Primary Brain Tumors. Cancer Control 2017; 24:S1-S16. [PMID: 28557973 DOI: 10.1177/107327481702400118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neoplastic meningitis, also known as leptomeningeal disease, affects the entire neuraxis. The clinical manifestations of the disease may affect the cranial nerves, cerebral hemispheres, or the spine. Because of the extent of disease involvement, treatment options and disease staging should involve all compartments of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and subarachnoid space. Few studies of patients with primary brain tumors have specifically addressed treatment for the secondary complication of neoplastic meningitis. Therapy for neoplastic meningitis is palliative in nature and, rarely, may have a curative intent. METHODS A review of the medical literature pertinent to neoplastic meningitis in primary brain tumors was performed. The complication of neoplastic meningitis is described in detail for the various types of primary brain tumors. RESULTS Treatment of neoplastic meningitis is complicated because determining who should receive aggressive, central nervous system (CNS)-directed therapy is difficult. In general, the therapeutic response of neoplastic meningitis is a function of CSF cytology and, secondarily, of the clinical improvement in neurological manifestations related to the disease. CSF cytology may manifest a rostrocaudal disassociation; thus, consecutive, negative findings require that both lumbar and ventricular cytological testing are performed to confirm the complete response. Based on data from several prospective, randomized trials extrapolated to primary brain tumors, the median rate of survival for neoplastic meningitis is several months. Oftentimes, therapy directed at palliation may improve quality of life by protecting patients from experiencing continued neurological deterioration. CONCLUSIONS Neoplastic meningitis is a complicated disease in which response to therapy varies by histology. Thus, survival rates after CNS-directed therapy will differ by the underlying primary tumor. Optimal therapy of neoplastic meningitis is poorly defined, and few guidelines exist to guide clinicians on the most appropriate choice of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marc C Chamberlain
- Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Cascadian Therapeutics, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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21
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Tensaouti F, Ducassou A, Chaltiel L, Bolle S, Muracciole X, Coche-Dequeant B, Alapetite C, Bernier V, Claude L, Supiot S, Huchet A, Kerr C, le Prisé E, Laprie A. Patterns of failure after radiotherapy for pediatric patients with intracranial ependymoma. Radiother Oncol 2017; 122:362-367. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2016.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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22
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Quantitative imaging analysis of posterior fossa ependymoma location in children. Childs Nerv Syst 2016; 32:1441-7. [PMID: 27117266 PMCID: PMC4967400 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-016-3092-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Imaging descriptions of posterior fossa ependymoma in children have focused on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal and local anatomic relationships with imaging location only recently used to classify these neoplasms. We developed a quantitative method for analyzing the location of ependymoma in the posterior fossa, tested its effectiveness in distinguishing groups of tumors, and examined potential associations of distinct tumor groups with treatment and prognostic factors. METHODS Pre-operative MRI examinations of the brain for 38 children with histopathologically proven posterior fossa ependymoma were analyzed. Tumor margin contours and anatomic landmarks were manually marked and used to calculate the centroid of each tumor. Landmarks were used to calculate a transformation to align, scale, and rotate each patient's image coordinates to a common coordinate space. Hierarchical cluster analysis of the location and morphological variables was performed to detect multivariate patterns in tumor characteristics. The ependymomas were also characterized as "central" or "lateral" based on published radiological criteria. Therapeutic details and demographic, recurrence, and survival information were obtained from medical records and analyzed with the tumor location and morphology to identify prognostic tumor characteristics. RESULTS Cluster analysis yielded two distinct tumor groups based on centroid location The cluster groups were associated with differences in PFS (p = .044), "central" vs. "lateral" radiological designation (p = .035), and marginally associated with multiple operative interventions (p = .064). CONCLUSIONS Posterior fossa ependymoma can be objectively classified based on quantitative analysis of tumor location, and these classifications are associated with prognostic and treatment factors.
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23
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Proton therapy for paediatric CNS tumours — improving treatment-related outcomes. Nat Rev Neurol 2016; 12:334-45. [DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2016.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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24
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Murphy ES, Chao ST, Angelov L, Vogelbaum MA, Barnett G, Jung E, Recinos VR, Mohammadi A, Suh JH. Radiosurgery for Pediatric Brain Tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2016; 63:398-405. [PMID: 26536284 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.25831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The utility of radiosurgery for pediatric brain tumors is not well known. For children, radiosurgery may have an important role for treating unresectable tumors, residual disease, or tumors in the recurrent setting that have received prior radiotherapy. The available evidence demonstrates utility for some children with primary brain tumors resulting in good local control. Radiosurgery can be considered for limited residual disease or focal recurrences. However, the potential toxicities are unique and not insignificant. Therefore, prospective studies need to be performed to develop guidelines for indications and treatment for children and reduce toxicity in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin S Murphy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Samuel T Chao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Lilyana Angelov
- Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Michael A Vogelbaum
- Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Gene Barnett
- Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Edward Jung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, John R. Marsh Cancer Center, Hagerstown, MD, USA
| | - Violette R Recinos
- Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Alireza Mohammadi
- Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - John H Suh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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Bindra RS, Wolden SL. Advances in Radiation Therapy in Pediatric Neuro-oncology. J Child Neurol 2016; 31:506-16. [PMID: 26271789 DOI: 10.1177/0883073815597758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Radiation therapy remains a highly effective therapy for many pediatric central nervous system tumors. With more children achieving long-term survival after treatment for brain tumors, late-effects of radiation have become an important concern. In response to this problem, treatment protocols for a variety of pediatric central nervous system tumors have evolved to reduce radiation fields and doses when possible. Recent advances in radiation technology such as image guidance and proton therapy have led to a new era of precision treatment with significantly less exposure to healthy tissues. These developments along with the promise of molecular classification of tumors and targeted therapies point to an optimistic future for pediatric neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjit S Bindra
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Suzanne L Wolden
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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Frandsen JE, Wagner A, Bollo RJ, Shrieve DC, Poppe MM. Long-term life expectancy for children with ependymoma and medulloblastoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015; 62:1986-91. [PMID: 26017317 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.25599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is a paucity of long-term follow-up data for children with intracranial ependymoma (IE) and medulloblastoma (MB). What happens to these children 20, 30, or 40 years after diagnosis? Do they have potential for a normal lifespan? The purpose of this study was to ascertain the long-term survival potential in children with MB or IE who have survived 5 years from diagnosis. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted using the SEER Program. Children (ages 0-19 years) from 1973 to 2011 with a diagnosis of MB or IE were identified. A cohort was created of potentially cured patients who survived 5 years from diagnosis. Cox proportional hazards models and Kaplan-Meier estimates were utilized to analyze long-term survival. RESULTS We identified 876 patients with MB and 474 patients with IE who were alive 5 years from diagnosis. Patients with MB had a 30-year overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of 70.2% and 80.1%, respectively. Patients with IE had a 30-year OS and CSS of 57.3% and 68.8%, respectively. When comparing MB with IE, MB had improved CSS (P = 0.04) and trended toward increased OS (P = 0.10). CONCLUSIONS A significant number of deaths due to disease occur for several decades after treatment for both IE and MB. Despite this, the potential for long-term survival exists in 5-year survivors of both histologies. If alive at 5 years from diagnosis, patients with MB tend to have a lower risk of death from disease compared to those with IE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan E Frandsen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Hospital, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Aaron Wagner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Hospital, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Robert J Bollo
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Dennis C Shrieve
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Hospital, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Matthew M Poppe
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Hospital, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Phi JH, Choi SA, Kim SK, Wang KC, Lee JY, Kim DG. Overcoming Chemoresistance of Pediatric Ependymoma by Inhibition of STAT3 Signaling. Transl Oncol 2015; 8:376-386. [PMID: 26500028 PMCID: PMC4631088 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The long-term clinical outcome of pediatric intracranial epepdymoma is poor with a high rate of recurrence. One of the main reasons for this poor outcome is the tumor’s inherent resistance to chemotherapy. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is overactive in many human cancers, and inhibition of STAT3 signaling is an emerging area of interest in oncology. In this study, the possibility of STAT3 inhibition as a treatment was investigated in pediatric intracranial ependymoma tissues and cell lines. STAT3 activation status was checked in ependymoma tissues. The responses to conventional chemotherapeutic agents and a STAT3 inhibitor WP1066 in primarily cultured ependymoma cells were measured by cell viability assay. Apoptosis assays were conducted to reveal the cytotoxic mechanism of applied agents. Knockdown of STAT3 was tried to confirm the effects of STAT3 inhibition in ependymoma cells. High levels of phospho-STAT3 (p-STAT3) expression were observed in ependymoma tissue, especially in the anaplastic histology group. There was no cytotoxic effect of cisplatin, ifosfamide, and etoposide. Both brain tumor-initiating cells (BTICs) and bulk tumor cells (BCs) showed considerably decreased viability after WP1066 treatment. However, BTICs had fewer responses than BCs. No additive or synergistic effect was observed for combination therapy of WP1066 and cisplatin. WP1066 effectively abrogated p-STAT3 expression. An increased apoptosis and decreased Survivin expression were observed after WP1066 treatment. Knockdown of STAT3 also decreased cell survival, supporting the critical role of STAT3 in sustaining ependymoma cells. In this study, we observed a cytotoxic effect of STAT3 inhibitor on ependymoma BTICs and BCs. There is urgent need to develop new therapeutic agents for pediatric ependymoma. STAT3 inhibitors may be a new group of drugs for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hoon Phi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ah Choi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ki Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Chang Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yeoun Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Gyu Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Inhibition of the NOTCH pathway using γ-secretase inhibitor RO4929097 has limited antitumor activity in established glial tumors. Anticancer Drugs 2015; 26:272-83. [DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Lundar T, Due-Tønnessen BJ, Krossnes B, Due-Tønnessen P, Brandal P. Posterior fossa ependymoma in childhood: 60 years event-free survival after partial resection—a case report. Childs Nerv Syst 2015; 31:1573-6. [PMID: 26047947 PMCID: PMC4560763 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-015-2766-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A 13-year-old boy with severe clinical symptoms and signs underwent surgery for a posterior fossa ependymoma in 1954. The tumor was adjacent to the floor of the fourth ventricle, and surgery was complicated by profound bleeding. Therefore, only a partial resection was performed. Postoperative radiotherapy was given to the posterior fossa. The recovery was uneventful, and he has been in full-time work until the age of 62 years and is now 74 years old. Repeated MRI scans demonstrate a stable residual fourth ventricular tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tryggve Lundar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oslo University Hospital, Postboks 4950 Nydalen, 0424, Oslo, Norway,
| | | | - Bård Krossnes
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Petter Brandal
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Iqbal MS, Lewis J. An overview of the management of adult ependymomas with emphasis on relapsed disease. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2013; 25:726-33. [PMID: 23972764 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2013.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ependymomas are rare neoplasms of the central nervous system. Disease-free survival after relapse is poor and approaches to treatment in recurrent disease often palliative. This overview summarises the management of primary disease for which broad consensus exists. We also extensively review treatment options in relapsed disease for which approaches to treatment are varied due to the paucity of literature evidence. Incorporated in this overview is a survey of UK neuro-oncology units to form a snapshot of current UK practise with respect to preferred systemic therapy regimens for patients with recurrent ependymoma. The outcome reflects a preference for mainly oral-based regimens. Universal guidance is lacking in the management of non-operable irradiated recurrent ependymoma and there are worthy therapeutic avenues for further investigation, in particular the role of radical re-irradiation and also the potential of bevacizumab in advanced disease. It is hoped that advances can be achieved by multicentre collaboration in future studies to overcome the difficulties posed by achieving meaningful data in such a rare tumour with extensive natural history.
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Gajjar A, Packer RJ, Foreman N, Cohen K, Haas-Kogan D, Merchant TE. Children's Oncology Group's 2013 blueprint for research: central nervous system tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60:1022-6. [PMID: 23255213 PMCID: PMC4184243 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.24427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In the US, approximately 2,500 children are diagnosed annually with brain tumors. Their survival ranges from >90% to <10%. For children with medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor, 5-year survival ranges from >80% (standard-risk) to 60% (high-risk). For those with high-grade gliomas (HGGs) including diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas, 5-year survival remains <10%. Sixty-five percent patients with ependymoma are cured after surgery and radiation therapy depending on the degree of resection and histopathology of the tumor. Phase II trials for brain tumors will investigate agents that act on cMET, PDGFRA, or EZH2 in HGG, DIPG, or medulloblastoma, respectively. Phase III trials will explore risk-based therapy stratification guided by molecular and clinical traits of children with medulloblastoma or ependymoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Gajjar
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Roger J. Packer
- Brain Tumor Institute, Children's National, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - N.K. Foreman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver
| | - Kenneth Cohen
- Oncology and Pediatrics, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Daphne Haas-Kogan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Thomas E. Merchant
- Department of Radiological Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
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Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Survival rates for patients with ependymoma, a glial tumor arising from the ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain and spinal cord canal, have changed little during the past decade. Contemporary "standard" therapy for children and adults with ependymoma consists of maximal surgical resection followed by focal irradiation except in cases of disseminated disease. Despite refinements in radiotherapy techniques and improvements in survival for patients with gross totally resected, nonanaplastic disease, many therapeutic challenges remain, especially for patients with unresectable, macroscopic, metastatic, or anaplastic disease. Moreover, radiotherapy to the developing central nervous system, especially in patients younger than age 5 years, can have potential long-term neurocognitive and neuroendocrine sequelae. Chemotherapy has not played a role in most treatment regimens for ependymoma to date, but due to the ongoing therapeutic challenges for a subset of patients, this modality is being reinvestigated in a few ongoing studies. Early recognition of patients who will not respond to primary therapy is imperative to modify treatment regimens, such as intensification with the addition of adjuvant chemotherapy, the use of novel experimental therapies, or their combination. Refinements in patient stratification schemes that are based on a combination of clinical variables and molecular profiles also require improved knowledge of tumor biology. Several molecular alterations have been identified already, some of which may be of prognostic significance. Furthermore, disruption of molecular alterations in signaling pathways involved in the development and maintenance of ependymoma by using novel molecularly targeted therapies may improve outcomes and reduce toxicity for patients with ependymoma.
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Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer death in children, with ependymoma being the third most common and posing a significant clinical burden. Its mechanism of pathogenesis, reliable prognostic indicators, and effective treatments other than surgical resection have all remained elusive. Until recently, ependymoma research was hindered by the small number of tumors available for study, low resolution of cytogenetic techniques, and lack of cell lines and animal models. Ependymoma heterogeneity, which manifests as variations in tumor location, patient age, histological grade, and clinical behavior, together with the observation of a balanced genomic profile in up to 50% of cases, presents additional challenges in understanding the development and progression of this disease. Despite these difficulties, we have made significant headway in the past decade in identifying the genetic alterations and pathways involved in ependymoma tumorigenesis through collaborative efforts and the application of microarray-based genetic (copy number) and transcriptome profiling platforms. Genetic characterization of ependymoma unraveled distinct mRNA-defined subclasses and led to the identification of radial glial cells as its cell type of origin. This review summarizes our current knowledge in the molecular genetics of ependymoma and proposes future research directions necessary to further advance this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yao
- Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Central nervous system tumors are the most frequent malignant tumor in children and the main cause of death in this age group after traffic accidents. The current estimates are that one adult in 2500 is a survivor of a brain tumor that occurred during childhood. These tumors are particularly heterogeneous in terms of histology/biology, treatment, and outcome. They share, however, a high risk of neurological and cognitive morbidity due to the disease itself and the treatment modalities (radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy). Diagnosis is frequently delayed because symptoms are usually nonspecific at the beginning of the evolution. Posterior fossa is the most frequent site and the tumors present most frequently with signs of intracranial hypertension. Supratentorial tumors are more frequent in infants and in adolescents; seizures are not uncommon, especially for benign tumors. When adjuvant treatment is needed, radiotherapy is usually the mainstay apart from some histologies where chemotherapy may be sufficient: low-grade gliomas, desmoplastic medulloblastomas, malignant glial tumors in infants. Multidisciplinary care is best performed in tertiary care centers and should include early rehabilitation programs soon after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grill Jacques
- Brain Tumor Program, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France.
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35
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Newton HB, Rudà R, Soffietti R. Ependymomas, neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors, dysembroblastic neuroepithelial tumors, pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas, and pilocytic astrocytomas. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2012; 105:551-567. [PMID: 22230518 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-53502-3.00008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Herbert B Newton
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Pollack IF. Ataxia resulting from posterior fossa tumors of childhood and other mass lesions. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2012; 103:161-173. [PMID: 21827887 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-51892-7.00009-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Ataxia is a common presenting symptom and sequela of treatment in children with posterior fossa tumors, and is the most common focal neurological deficit in the majority of tumor types. Owing to the diversity of histologies among pediatric posterior fossa tumors and the concomitant diversity in tumor biology and prognosis, distinctive management strategies are required for each tumor type. In addition, age-related factors influence the ease of diagnosis and difficulty of management for patients with these tumors. In most modern centers, children with such tumors are treated in cooperative group studies, which are designed to increase the percentage of children who achieve long-term survival as well as their functional outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian F Pollack
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute Brain Tumor Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Sung KW, Lim DH, Lee SH, Yoo KH, Koo HH, Kim JH, Suh YL, Joung YS, Shin HJ. Tandem high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation for anaplastic ependymoma in children younger than 3 years of age. J Neurooncol 2011; 107:335-42. [PMID: 22081297 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-011-0745-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The present study evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of tandem high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDCT/autoSCT) in very young children with anaplastic ependymoma. We aimed both to improve survival and to avoid unacceptable late adverse effects of radiation therapy (RT) by avoiding or deferring RT until 3 years of age. Five consecutive patients younger than 3 years of age with anaplastic ependymoma were enrolled from April 2006 to November 2008. Tandem HDCT/autoSCT was given following six cycles of induction chemotherapy. RT was either not given or deferred until 3 years of age if the patient was in complete response after tandem HDCT/autoSCT. Median age at diagnosis was 16 (range 12-28) months. Four patients had significant residual tumor (>1.5 cm(2)) after initial surgery, and three had leptomeningeal seeding. Toxicities during induction chemotherapy and tandem HDCT/autoSCT were manageable. No tumor progressed during induction chemotherapy and tandem HDCT/autoSCT, and RT was thus avoided or deferred until 3 years of age in all patients. All patients are alive at median follow-up of 45 (range 31-62) months from diagnosis, although tumor progressed in one patient. No significant endocrine dysfunction occurred except for hypothyroidism in one patient. Cognitive function was also acceptable in all patients but one who had significant neurologic injury during surgery. Our results indicate that treatment with tandem HDCT/autoSCT is feasible in very young children with anaplastic ependymoma and may improve the survival of patients with acceptable long-term toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Woong Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Phi JH, Wang KC, Park SH, Kim IH, Kim IO, Park KD, Ahn HS, Lee JY, Son YJ, Kim SK. Pediatric infratentorial ependymoma: prognostic significance of anaplastic histology. J Neurooncol 2011; 106:619-26. [PMID: 21863401 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-011-0699-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/12/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric infratentorial ependymomas are difficult to cure. Despite the availability of advanced therapeutic modalities for brain tumors, total surgical resection remains the most important prognostic factor. Recently, histological grade emerged as an independent prognostic factor for intracranial ependymoma. We retrospectively reviewed the treatment outcome of 33 pediatric patients with infratentorial ependymoma. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were calculated and relevant prognostic factors were analyzed. Fourteen patients (42%) were under the age of 3 at diagnosis. Gross total resection was achieved in 16 patients (49%). Anaplastic histology was found in 13 patients (39%). Adjuvant therapies were delayed until progression in 12 patients (36%). Actuarial PFS rates were 64% in the first year and 29% in the fifth year. Actuarial OS rates were 91% in the first year and 71% in the fifth year. On univariate analysis, brainstem invasion (P = 0.047), anaplastic histology (P = 0.004), higher mitotic count (P = 0.001), and higher Ki-67 index (P = 0.004) were significantly related to a shorter PFS. Gross total resection (P = 0.029) and a greater age at diagnosis (P = 0.033) were significantly related to a longer PFS. On multivariate analysis, anaplastic histology alone was significantly related to a shorter PFS (P = 0.023). Gross total resection (P = 0.039) was significantly related to a longer overall survival (OS) on multivariate analysis. Anaplastic histology and gross total resection were the most important clinical factors affecting PFS and OS, respectively. Anaplastic histology, mitotic count, and Ki-67 index can be used as universal and easily available prognostic parameters in infratentorial ependymomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hoon Phi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, 101 Daehangno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 110-744, Republic of Korea
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Forbes JA, Chambless LB, Smith JG, Wushensky CA, Lebow RL, Alvarez J, Pearson MM. Use of T2 signal intensity of cerebellar neoplasms in pediatric patients to guide preoperative staging of the neuraxis. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2011; 7:165-74. [PMID: 21284463 PMCID: PMC3777739 DOI: 10.3171/2010.11.peds10312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT The question of whether to obtain routine or selective preoperative imaging of the neuraxis in pediatric patients with cerebellar neoplasms remains a controversial topic. Staging of the neuraxis is generally considered beneficial in patients with neoplasms associated with an elevated risk of leptomeningeal dissemination (LD). When these studies are obtained preoperatively, there is a decrease in the number of false-positive images related to debris in the immediate postoperative period. Additionally, knowledge of the extent of spread has the potential to affect the risk/benefit analysis of aggressive resection. Although the majority of pediatric neurosurgeons surveyed choose to obtain selective preoperative imaging of the neuraxis in cases of cerebellar neoplasms "with findings suggestive of high-grade pathology," an evidence-based protocol in the literature is lacking. The goal of this study was to assess radiological characteristics of tumors with an elevated risk of LD and identify a method to help guide preoperative imaging of the neuraxis. METHODS The authors first reviewed the literature to gain an appreciation of the risk of LD of pediatric cerebellar neoplasms based on underlying histopathology and/or grade. Available evidence indicates preoperative imaging of the neuraxis in patients with Grade I tumors to be of questionable utility. In contrast, evidence suggested that preoperative imaging of the neuraxis in patients with Grades II-IV neoplasms was clinically warranted. The authors then evaluated an extensive base of neuroradiological literature to identify possible MR imaging and/or CT findings with the potential to differentiate Grade I from higher-grade neoplasms in pediatric patients. They analyzed the preoperative radiological findings in 50 pediatric patients who had undergone craniotomy for resection of cerebellar neoplasms at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital since 2003 with reference to 7 chosen radiological criteria. Logistic regression models were fit using radiological features to determine the best predictors of Grades II-IV tumors. Receiver operating characteristic methods were used to identify diagnostic properties of the best predictors. RESULTS The relative T2 signal intensity (RT2SI), an indirect measure of the water content of the solid component of the tumor, was best able to identify neoplasms with an elevated risk of LD. An RT2SI value of 0.71 was selected by the authors as the best operating point on the curve. Of the 31 neoplasms retrospectively designated as hypointense T2-weighted lesions (RT2SI ≤ 0.71), 30 (97%) were Grade II or higher. All medulloblastomas, ependymomas, and high-grade (Grades III and IV) neoplasms were hypointense T2-weighted lesions. Of the 19 T2-weighted hyperintense neoplasms (RT2SI > 0.71), 16 (84%) were Grade I and 3 were Grade II. CONCLUSIONS Measurement of the RT2SI can help predict Grade II-IV tumors at an elevated risk of leptomeningeal spread and guide staging of the neuraxis. Pediatric patients with cerebellar neoplasms found to have an RT2SI of less than or equal to 0.71 are recommended for neuraxis imaging prior to surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Forbes
- Department of Neurosurgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
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Fangusaro J, Van Den Berghe C, Tomita T, Rajaram V, Aguilera D, Wang D, Goldman S. Evaluating the incidence and utility of microscopic metastatic dissemination as diagnosed by lumbar cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) samples in children with newly diagnosed intracranial ependymoma. J Neurooncol 2010; 103:693-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-010-0448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2010] [Accepted: 10/21/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Peyre M, Commo F, Dantas-Barbosa C, Andreiuolo F, Puget S, Lacroix L, Drusch F, Scott V, Varlet P, Mauguen A, Dessen P, Lazar V, Vassal G, Grill J. Portrait of ependymoma recurrence in children: biomarkers of tumor progression identified by dual-color microarray-based gene expression analysis. PLoS One 2010; 5:e12932. [PMID: 20885975 PMCID: PMC2945762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2010] [Accepted: 07/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Children with ependymoma may experience a relapse in up to 50% of cases depending on the extent of resection. Key biological events associated with recurrence are unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings To discover the biology behind the recurrence of ependymomas, we performed CGHarray and a dual-color gene expression microarray analysis of 17 tumors at diagnosis co-hybridized with the corresponding 27 first or subsequent relapses from the same patient. As treatment and location had only limited influence on specific gene expression changes at relapse, we established a common signature for relapse. Eighty-seven genes showed an absolute fold change ≥2 in at least 50% of relapses and were defined as the gene expression signature of ependymoma recurrence. The most frequently upregulated genes are involved in the kinetochore (ASPM, KIF11) or in neural development (CD133, Wnt and Notch pathways). Metallothionein (MT) genes were downregulated in up to 80% of the recurrences. Quantitative PCR for ASPM, KIF11 and MT3 plus immunohistochemistry for ASPM and MT3 confirmed the microarray results. Immunohistochemistry on an independent series of 24 tumor pairs at diagnosis and at relapse confirmed the decrease of MT3 expression at recurrence in 17/24 tumor pairs (p = 0.002). Conversely, ASPM expression was more frequently positive at relapse (87.5% vs 37.5%, p = 0.03). Loss or deletion of the MT genes cluster was never observed at relapse. Promoter sequencing after bisulfite treatment of DNA from primary tumors and recurrences as well as treatment of short-term ependymoma cells cultures with a demethylating agent showed that methylation was not involved in MT3 downregulation. However, in vitro treatment with a histone deacetylase inhibitor or zinc restored MT3 expression. Conclusions/Significance The most frequent molecular events associated with ependymoma recurrence were over-expression of kinetochore proteins and down-regulation of metallothioneins. Metallothionein-3 expression is epigenetically controlled and can be restored in vitro by histone deacetylase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Peyre
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Frédéric Commo
- CNRS FRE 2939, Bioinformatics Group, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Carmela Dantas-Barbosa
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Felipe Andreiuolo
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
- Translational Research Laboratory, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Stéphanie Puget
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
- Department of Neurosurgery, Necker Sick Children's Hospital, Université Paris V Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Lacroix
- Translational Research Laboratory, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Françoise Drusch
- Translational Research Laboratory, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Véronique Scott
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Pascale Varlet
- Department of Neuropathology, Sainte-Anne Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Audrey Mauguen
- Department of Biostatistics, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Philippe Dessen
- CNRS FRE 2939, Bioinformatics Group, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Vladimir Lazar
- Functional Genomics Unit, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Gilles Vassal
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Jacques Grill
- Université Paris-Sud, CNRS UMR 8203 “Vectorology and Anticancer Treatments”, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
- * E-mail:
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Proton beam therapy following resection for childhood ependymoma. Childs Nerv Syst 2010; 26:285-91. [PMID: 20024657 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-009-1059-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2009] [Accepted: 11/17/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proton radiation therapy is a form of radiation with physical properties that can provide an advantage in normal tissue sparing compared to the more commonly used photon therapy. DISCUSSION The greatest benefit may be for young patients with tumors requiring relatively high doses of radiation and adjacent to critical structures. Children with central nervous system ependymomas meet these criteria and have a very high likelihood of benefit from proton radiation. At present, proton radiation is limited to select centers. However, knowledge of many of the physical advantages of proton therapy has spread rapidly over the past several years, and its availability is becoming more widespread.
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Chamberlain MC, Johnston SK. Temozolomide for recurrent intracranial supratentorial platinum-refractory ependymoma. Cancer 2009; 115:4775-82. [PMID: 19569246 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.24524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To the authors' knowledge, there currently is no standard therapy for platinum-resistant ependymoma; hence, a need exists for new therapies. In the current study, a retrospective evaluation of temozolomide (TMZ) in adults with recurrent, supratentorial, platinum-refractory, World Health Organization grade 2 ependymoma was performed, with an objective of determining 6-month progression-free survival (PFS). METHODS A total of 25 patients, ages 28 to 63 years, with recurrent ependymoma were treated. All patients had previously been treated with surgery, radiotherapy, and platinum-based chemotherapy (cisplatin in 15 patients and carboplatin in 10 patients). Nine patients underwent repeat surgery. Patients were treated at the time of second recurrence with TMZ (5 consecutive days), once every 4 weeks, which was defined as a single cycle. Neurologic evaluation was performed every 4 weeks and neuroradiographic assessment every 8 weeks. RESULTS A total of 68 cycles of TMZ (median, 2 cycles; range, 1-6 cycles) was administered. TMZ-related toxicity included leukopenia (7 patients; 1 with grade 3 [grade was determine according to National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria [version 3.0]), constipation (6 patients; none with grade 3), fatigue (5 patients; none with grade 3), anemia (2; none with grade 3), thrombocytopenia (2; none with grade 3), and deep vein thrombosis (2; none with grade 3). One patient (4%) demonstrated a partial radiographic response, 9 (36%) had stable disease, and 15 (60%) developed progressive disease after 2 cycles of TMZ. Time to tumor progression ranged from 1 to 7 months (median, 2 months). Survival ranged from 2 to 8 months (median, 3 months). The 6-month and 12-month PFS were 2% and 0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS TMZ in this dose schedule demonstrated little efficacy in a cohort of adults with recurrent, intracranial, platinum-refractory ependymoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc C Chamberlain
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University of Washington/Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA.
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Tamburrini G, D'Ercole M, Pettorini BL, Caldarelli M, Massimi L, Di Rocco C. Survival following treatment for intracranial ependymoma: a review. Childs Nerv Syst 2009; 25:1303-12. [PMID: 19387655 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-009-0874-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The actual definition of survival rates following treatment for intracranial ependymomas is substantially influenced by the strict interaction among different factors. Age, location, and grading, for example, act together, negatively influencing the prognosis of younger children also invariably influenced by the more demanding role of surgery and the still limited use, up to recently, of radiotherapy under 3 years of age. In the same direction, the worse prognosis in most series of infratentorial ependymomas if compared with their supratentorial counterpart should be cautiously considered, midline posterior fossa tumors having completely different implications from those originating or predominantly extending to the cerebellopontine angle, where the extent of surgery has more invariably to compare with patients' quality of life. New radiotherapic regimens and their applications in infancy are promisingly demonstrating an improvement of present prognostic criteria, with the limit of still insufficient information on their long-term secondary effects. Similarly, molecular biology research studies, though still in their preclinical stage, are prompting to change the concept of a substantially chemoresistant tumor helping to stratify these lesions with the final aim of targeted pharmacological therapies. In the present review paper, we investigated singularly the role that the more commonly considered prognostic factors have had in the literature on survival of children affected by intracranial ependymomas, trying to elucidate their cumulative effect on the actual knowledge of this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tamburrini
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Institute of Neurosurgery, Catholic University Medical School, Largo A. Gemelli, 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
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Sangra M, Thorp N, May P, Pizer B, Mallucci C. Management strategies for recurrent ependymoma in the paediatric population. Childs Nerv Syst 2009; 25:1283-91. [PMID: 19484246 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-009-0914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The management of recurrent ependymoma within the paediatric population remains a therapeutic challenge. The options available are varied and patients may have already received prior radio- or chemotherapy. As yet, no consensus exists regarding their optimal treatment. We review the literature and present our contemporary management strategies for this interesting group of patients. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Survival following recurrence is poor and those prognostic factors that predispose to recurrence include extent of surgical resection and the timing of administration of adjuvant therapy. The extent of resection at re-operation can confer a survival advantage, without a necessary increase in morbidity. Strategies aimed at improving surgical resection at first diagnosis include improving and centralising post-surgical radiological review, defining what are true residuals, and centralising surgical review of incompletely resected tumours. Re-irradiation can improve survival, and with the use of conformal radiation fields need not necessarily lead to neuropsychological damage. Cisplatin and etoposide remain the most effective chemotherapeutic agents to date and with an increase in the understanding of tumour biology this may improve further. Because of the complex nature of this group of patients, decisions regarding their management require the involvement of a paediatric neurosurgeon, paediatric neuro-oncologist and paediatric radiation oncologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sangra
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital NHS Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK.
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Sanford RA, Merchant TE, Zwienenberg-Lee M, Kun LE, Boop FA. Advances in surgical techniques for resection of childhood cerebellopontine angle ependymomas are key to survival. Childs Nerv Syst 2009; 25:1229-40. [PMID: 19484252 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-009-0886-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cerebellopontine angle (CPA) ependymoma is an uncommon anatomical variant of posterior fossa ependymoma. In infants and young children, the tumor often goes undetected until it causes hydrocephalus. As CPA ependymomas grow, they distort the anatomy and encase cranial nerves and vessels, thereby making resection a formidable surgical challenge. PURPOSE The purpose of this paper is to describe the surgical technique used to achieve gross total resection (GTR) of CPA ependymomas and demonstrate improved survival in these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Surgical techniques used for GTR in 45 patients with CPA ependymoma treated from 1997 to 2008 are described. Results of those procedures are compared with data from 11 patients who previously underwent surgical resection (1985-1995). RESULTS We achieved GTR in 43 (95.6%) patients and near-total resection in two (4.4%); the probability of progression-free survival was 53.8%, and that of overall survival was 64%. CONCLUSION Our novel surgical techniques greatly improve central nervous system function and survival among pediatric patients with CPA ependymoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Sanford
- Semmes-Murphey Clinic, 6325 Humphreys Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38120, USA.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The application of conformal radiation therapy in the treatment of pediatric ependymoma is a success story resulting from advances in radiation therapy planning and delivery. These advances occurred at a time when clinical trial results confirmed that radiotherapy avoidance strategies were unsuccessful. DISCUSSION Investigators have been keen to confirm the promise of newer radiation therapy methods even for the youngest children. When preliminary results suggested that high-dose focal irradiation could be safely administered through systematic targeting and that cognitive function could be preserved, investigators moved to include conformal therapy in the frontline management of children regardless of age. The results with postoperative conformal radiation therapy were further enhanced when neurosurgeons increased the rate of gross-total resection and recognized that second surgery could be safely accomplished after incomplete initial resection. With more than a decade of experience, the role of conformal radiation therapy in the treatment of childhood ependymoma has been firmly established as investigators consider new trials to increase disease control and improve functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E Merchant
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Mail Stop 220, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105-3678, USA.
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Merchant TE, Chitti RM, Li C, Xiong X, Sanford RA, Khan RB. Factors associated with neurological recovery of brainstem function following postoperative conformal radiation therapy for infratentorial ependymoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2009; 76:496-503. [PMID: 19464817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2009.01.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2008] [Revised: 12/21/2008] [Accepted: 01/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify risk factors associated with incomplete neurological recovery in pediatric patients with infratentorial ependymoma treated with postoperative conformal radiation therapy (CRT). METHODS The study included 68 patients (median age +/- standard deviation of 2.6 +/- 3.8 years) who were followed for 5 years after receiving CRT (54-59.4 Gy) and were assessed for function of cranial nerves V to VII and IX to XII, motor weakness, and dysmetria. The mean (+/- standard deviation) brainstem dose was 5,487 (+/-464) cGy. Patients were divided into four groups representing those with normal baseline and follow-up, those with abnormal baseline and full recovery, those with abnormal baseline and partial or no recovery, and those with progressive deficits at 12 (n = 62 patients), 24 (n = 57 patients), and 60 (n = 50 patients) months. Grouping was correlated with clinical and treatment factors. RESULTS Risk factors (overall risk [OR], p value) associated with incomplete recovery included gender (male vs. female, OR = 3.97, p = 0.036) and gross tumor volume (GTV) (OR/ml = 1.23, p = 0.005) at 12 months, the number of resections (>1 vs. 1; OR = 23.7, p = 0.003) and patient age (OR/year = 0.77, p = 0.029) at 24 months, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting (Yes vs. No; OR = 21.9, p = 0.001) and GTV volume (OR/ml = 1.18, p = 0.008) at 60 months. An increase in GTV correlated with an increase in the number of resections (p = 0.001) and CSF shunting (p = 0.035); the number of resections correlated with CSF shunting (p < 0.0001), and male patients were more likely to undergo multiple tumor resections (p = 0.003). Age correlated with brainstem volume (p < 0.0001). There were no differences in outcome based on the absolute or relative volume of the brainstem that received more than 54 Gy. CONCLUSIONS Incomplete recovery of brainstem function after CRT for infratentorial ependymoma is related to surgical morbidity and the volume and the extent of tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E Merchant
- Department of Radiological Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-3678, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review state of art and relevant advances in the molecular biology and management of ependymomas of the adult. RECENT FINDINGS Ependymomas of the adult are uncommon neoplasms of the central nervous system, and may occur either in the brain or the spinal cord. Compared with intracranial ependymomas, spinal ependymomas are less frequent and exhibit a better prognosis. Studies performed on genetic changes in ependymoma provide some insight into the pathogenesis and prognostic markers and yield new therapeutic targets, particularly focused on signal transduction modulators. The majority of studies have shown a major impact of extent of resection; thus, a complete resection must be performed, whenever possible, at first surgery or at reoperation. Involved field radiotherapy is recommended for anaplastic or incompletely resected grade II tumors. Craniospinal irradiation is reserved for metastatic disease. Chemotherapy is not advocated as primary treatment, and is best utilized as salvage treatment for patients failing surgery and radiotherapy. SUMMARY Owing to the rarity of the disease, the literature regarding ependymomas in adults is scarce and limited to retrospective series. Thus, the level of evidence regarding therapeutic strategies is low and universally accepted guidelines are lacking. Molecular biology studies suggest some potential new therapeutic targets.
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