Results of TRIO-14, a phase II, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of carboplatin-paclitaxel versus carboplatin-paclitaxel-ganitumab in newly diagnosed epithelial ovarian cancer

PURPOSE

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling is implicated in pathogenesis and chemotherapy resistance of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). We explored efficacy and safety of adding ganitumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting IGF-1R, to carboplatin/paclitaxel (CP) chemotherapy in patients with primary EOC.

DESIGN

Patients were randomly assigned to receive CP/ganitumab (18 mg/kg q3w) or CP/placebo for 6 cycles followed by 6 cycles of single agent ganitumab/placebo maintenance therapy as front-line therapy. Primary endpoint was progression free survival. Secondary endpoints were time to progression and overall survival. Pretreatment samples were prospectively collected for retrospective biomarker analyses.

RESULTS

170 patients enrolled. 165 patients assessable for toxicity. Median PFS was 15.7 months with CP/ganitumab and 16.7 months with CP/placebo (HR 1.23; 95% CI 0.82-1.83, P = 0.313). All grade neutropenia (84.1% vs 71.4%), thrombocytopenia (75.3% vs 57.1%) and hyperglycemia (15.9% vs 2.6%) were more common in the ganitumab group compared to the placebo group. Ganitumab/placebo related serious adverse events were reported in 26.1% of the patients with ganitumab and in 6.5% with placebo. Non-progression related fatal events were more common with ganitumab (5 versus 2 patients). The ganitumab group experienced more dose delays which resulted in lower relative dose intensity of chemotherapy in the experimental group. In an exploratory model IGFBP2 expression was predictive of ganitumab response (treatment interaction; PFS, P = 0.03; OS, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Addition of ganitumab to CP chemotherapy in primary EOC did not improve PFS. Our results do not support further study of ganitumab in unselected EOC patients.

Conservative surgery for ovarian torsion in young women: perioperative complications and national trends

OBJECTIVE

To analyse populational trends and perioperative complications following conservative surgery versus oophorectomy in women <50 years of age with ovarian torsion.

DESIGN

Population-based retrospective observational study.

SETTING

Nationwide Inpatient Sample in the USA (2001-2015).

POPULATION

In all, 89 177 ovarian torsions including 20 597 (23.1%) conservative surgeries and 68 580 (76.9%) oophorectomies.

METHODS

(1) Trend analysis to assess utilisation of conservative surgery over time, (2) multivariable binary logistic regression to identify independent factors associated with conservative surgery and (3) inverse probability of treatment weighting with a generalised estimating equation to analyze perioperative complications.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Trends, characteristics and complications related to conservative surgery.

RESULTS

Performance of conservative surgery increased from 18.9 to 25.1% between 2001 and 2015 (32.8% relative increase, P = 0.001) but decreased steadily after age 15, and sharply declined after age 35 (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, younger age exhibited the largest effect size for conservative surgery among the independent factors (adjusted odds ratios 3.39-7.96, P < 0.001). In the weighted model, conservative surgery was associated with an approximately 30% decreased risk of perioperative complications overall (10.0% versus 13.6%, odds ratio 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.62-0.85, P < 0.001) and was not associated with venous thromboembolism (0.2 versus 0.3%, P = 0.457) or sepsis (0.4 versus 0.3%, P = 0.638).

CONCLUSION

There has been an increasing utilisation of conservative surgery for ovarian torsion in the USA in recent years. Our study suggests that conservative surgery for ovarian torsion may not be associated with increased perioperative complications.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Conservative surgery for ovarian torsion may not be associated with increased perioperative complications.

Significance of uterine corpus tumor invasion in early-stage cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

To examine characteristics and survival outcomes of women with surgically-treated cervical cancer exhibiting uterine corpus tumor invasion.

METHODS

We utilized The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program to identify cervical cancer patients who underwent hysterectomy between 1973 and 2003. Logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors for uterine corpus tumor invasion on multivariable analysis. Association of uterine corpus tumor invasion and cause-specific survival (CSS) from cervical cancer was examined with Cox proportional hazard regression models on multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

We identified 837 (4.9%) cases of uterine corpus invasion and 16,237 (95.1%) cases of non-invasion. Median follow-up time was 14.0 years. There were 1642 deaths due to cervical cancer. Uterine corpus invasion was independently associated with older age, non-squamous histology, high-grade tumors, large tumor size, and nodal metastasis on multivariable analysis (all, P < 0.001). On univariable analysis, uterine corpus tumor invasion was significantly associated with decreased CSS compared to the non-invasion (5-year rates, 79.0% versus 94.5%, P < 0.001). After controlling for other significant prognostic factors, uterine corpus tumor invasion remained an independent prognostic factor for decreased CSS (adjusted-hazard ratio 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.21-1.74). Among stage T1b cases (n = 6730), uterine corpus tumor invasion remained an independent prognostic factor for decreased CSS (adjusted-hazard ratio 1.95, 95%CI 1.47-2.60). Uterine corpus tumor invasion was significantly associated with decreased CSS in stage T1b1 disease (74.5% versus 90.7%, P < 0.001) and in stage T1b2 disease (67.0% versus 79.5%, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Uterine corpus tumor invasion is an independent prognostic factor for decreased survival of women with early-stage cervical cancer.

Significance of histologic pattern of carcinoma and sarcoma components on survival outcomes of uterine carcinosarcoma

BACKGROUND

To examine the effect of the histology of carcinoma and sarcoma components on survival outcome of uterine carcinosarcoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted to examine uterine carcinosarcoma cases that underwent primary surgical staging. Archived slides were examined and histologic patterns were grouped based on carcinoma (low-grade versus high-grade) and sarcoma (homologous versus heterologous) components, correlating to clinico-pathological demographics and outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 1192 cases identified, 906 cases were evaluated for histologic patterns (carcinoma/sarcoma) with high-grade/homologous (40.8%) being the most common type followed by high-grade/heterologous (30.9%), low-grade/homologous (18.0%), and low-grade/heterologous (10.3%). On multivariate analysis, high-grade/heterologous (5-year rate, 34.0%, P = 0.024) and high-grade/homologous (45.8%, P = 0.017) but not low-grade/heterologous (50.6%, P = 0.089) were independently associated with decreased progression-free survival (PFS) compared with low-grade/homologous (60.3%). In addition, older age, residual disease at surgery, large tumor, sarcoma dominance, deep myometrial invasion, lymphovascular space invasion, and advanced-stage disease were independently associated with decreased PFS (all, P < 0.01). Both postoperative chemotherapy (5-year rates, 48.6% versus 39.0%, P < 0.001) and radiotherapy (50.1% versus 44.1%, P = 0.007) were significantly associated with improved PFS in univariate analysis. However, on multivariate analysis, only postoperative chemotherapy remained an independent predictor for improved PFS [hazard ratio (HR) 0.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.27-0.43, P < 0.001]. On univariate analysis, significant treatment benefits for PFS were seen with ifosfamide for low-grade carcinoma (82.0% versus 49.8%, P = 0.001), platinum for high-grade carcinoma (46.9% versus 32.4%, P = 0.034) and homologous sarcoma (53.1% versus 38.2%, P = 0.017), and anthracycline for heterologous sarcoma (66.2% versus 39.3%, P = 0.005). Conversely, platinum, taxane, and anthracycline for low-grade carcinoma, and anthracycline for homologous sarcoma had no effect on PFS compared with non-chemotherapy group (all, P > 0.05). On multivariate analysis, ifosfamide for low-grade/homologous (HR 0.21, 95% CI 0.07-0.63, P = 0.005), platinum for high-grade/homologous (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.22-0.60, P < 0.001), and anthracycline for high-grade/heterologous (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.14-0.62, P = 0.001) remained independent predictors for improved PFS. Analyses of 1096 metastatic sites showed that carcinoma components tended to spread lymphatically, while sarcoma components tended to spread loco-regionally (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Characterization of histologic pattern provides valuable information in the management of uterine carcinosarcoma.

[OUTCOME OF PELVIC EXENTERATION FOR LOCALLY ADVANCED CANCER OF THE PELVIC ORGANS]

We analyzed the outcomes of pelvic exenteration in patients with locally advanced cancer of the pelvic organs. During the period from 2006 to 2013 at the Leningrad Regional Oncology Dispensary there were carried out 218 exenterations of the pelvis. Postoperative complications occurred in 68 patients (31.2%), 17 patients died, mortality was 7.8%. The average surgery time was 186 minutes. The average blood loss was 860 ml. In assessing the oncological effectiveness of surgical interventions it was revealed that a 5-year survival rate ranged from 32% in bladder cancer, up to 50% in cervical cancer. Careful selection of patients, multidisciplinary approach to the problem has paramount importance to achieve satisfactory outcomes.

[Immediate and long-term results of treatment after pelvic exenteration for locally advanced cervical cancer]

Results of treatment after pelvic exenterations were analyzed in 73 patients with locally advanced cervical cancer: 4 patients--Stage IIIB, 24--Stage IVA, 45--with local recurrences after combined (15) or radiation therapy (30) for the period from 2007 to 2012. The median age was 51 years (22 to 77). Variants of pelvic exenterations were as follows: 30 front, 6 rear supralevatory, 37 total (full monoblock removal of the pelvic organs above the pelvic diaphragm): 6 infralevatory and 31 supralevatory. Postoperative complications were recorded in 21 patients (28.8%), postoperative lethality--6.8%. Long-term results of treatment were observed among 34 patients operated in 2007-2009. One-year survival was 50.0%, two-year--47.1%, three-year--41.2%, four-year--38.2%, five-year--38.2%. Best results were observed in the group of primary patients (Stages IIIB, IVA) with only interorgan fistulas. Low survival rate was registered in the group of patients with recurrences after radiotherapy as intraoperatively, despite both data of CT and MRI and the results of express histological examination, it was impossible to assess accurately the lateral edge of the tumor growth.

[Results of surgical treatment of oral cavity cancer T1-2N0M0]

The article shows the results of treatment of 20 patients (aged from 46 to 85 years old) with early oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma at the period from April 2009 to January 2011. The surgery included the resection of primary tumor and neck dissection in all the patients. The primary tumor was removed by mouth access in 10 patients and combined method was used in 10 cases. The selective neck dissection was carried out in 22 cases. The oral cavity wounds were closed primarily by local flaps in 10 patients, some small residual defects were left open in 3 cases. The reconstructions with remote skin-muscular infrahyoid flap were performed in 7 patients. The free revascularized radial skin-fascia flap was used in 3 cases. A follow-up period was from 24 to 44 months. The primary local regional control consisted of 85% in given group of patients. The rate of recurrence of the second primary metachronous tumor was 15%. Tumors were located in the oral cavity. Overall 3-year survival was 90% (18 out of 20 patients).

[Microsurgical autografting for reconstruction of head and neck oncological defects. An analysis of 60 cases]

The authors analyzed results of the free flap transfer in surgery of head and neck. 60 operations were performed since October 2006 till May 2012. Indications for using them were reconstruction of the mucosa of the oral cavity and the pharynx in 48 cases, the extensive defects of skin and soft tissues of the head and neck in 12 cases. All cases except 2 had the initial reconstruction. First 18 operations were performed with the binocular loupes, followed by using operating microscope. During the operations 42 radial skin-fascia flaps, 10 anterolateral femoral flaps, 5 thoracodorsal flaps, 1 anteromedial femoral flap, 1 scapular skin bone flap and 1 jejunal flap were used. During the early postoperative period one of the patients died (postoperative lethality 1.7%). Necrosis of flaps took place in 6 cases (5 radial skin-fascia flaps, 1 thoracodorsal flap). The causes of failures were assessed as arterial thrombosis (1 case), venous thrombosis (2 cases), postoperative infection (1 case). The exact cause in 2 cases couldn't be determined. Thus, the total success in the given series of surgery was 88.9%.

[Use of vascularized free flaps for reconstruction of oncological defects in the head and neck]

The aim of the study is to assess our results with free flap transfer. Since October, 2005 till December, 2011 51 operations were performed. Mucosa of upper digestive tract was reconstructed in 40 cases, soft tissues and skin of the head and neck region-in 11 cases. Reconstruction was primary in all but 2 cases. 18 first cases were performed with 2,5x and 4x binocular loupes magnification. Operating microscope was used in another 33 cases. 37 radial forearm fasciocutaneous flaps, 5 latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flaps, 7 anterolateral thigh flaps, 1 scapular osteocutaneous were used with the single case of visceral flap--jejunal free flap. Death in early postoperative period occurred once. Complete flap loss occurred six times. Five radial and one latissimus dorsi free flaps were lost. Arterial thrombosis is considered as a primary cause of failure in one case, venous thrombosis-in two cases. Severe postoperative infection was considered as a primary cause of failure in one case. In remaining 2 cases the cause of flap loss could not be determined exactly. There were three cases of revision surgery with attempts to reperform venous anastomosis, one of them was successful. Overall success rate in this series is 86,3 %. The main cause of such a low rate of success is a lack of experience.

[Pelvic exenteration in surgery for colorectal cancer]

A total of 1436 patients with colorectal cancer underwent resective surgery: 244 (15.6%) received combined interventions, 94 (41.9%) pelvic exenteration (PE), 38 (40.4%) complete PE, 9 (9.6%) of which were infralevator and 29 (30.8%) supralevator. In 56 (59.6%) patients posterior PE was performed, supralevator was performed in 17 (18.1%) cases and infralevator in 39 (41.5%) cases. In 47 (69.1%) of 68 supralevator PE recipients colonic anastomosis was formed. In 21 (38.9%) patients a terminal colostoma was formed, in 29 (76.3%) of 38 patients incontinent urinary diversion was formed. Continent urinary diversion was performed in 9 (23.7%) patients. Twenty six (27.6%) patients had 43 post-operative complications which were lethal in 7 (26.9%) cases.

[Characteristics of tumor growth in patients with locally-advanced gastric cancer]

Locally-advanced gastric cancer features predominance of prognostically unfavorable histological patterns (infiltrative growth--in 87.9%, tumor grades II-IV--69.5%). Tumor invasion into two adjacent organs or more frequently occurs in totally-involved stomach (65.2+/-9.7%), poorly-differentiated (grade Ill) tumors (44.9+/-4.5%) under-differentiated ones (grade IV) (45.9+/-8.2%). Invasion into one adjacent organ is significantly predominant (p<or=0.05) in tumor localized in the upper third of the stomach (66.2+/-5.4%); exophytic tumor growth (Borrmann I) (100%) and well- differentiated (grade I)--(66.7+/-21.3%).

[Ways to improve the quality of life of elderly and senile patients after the operation by Brikker]

The present study is devoted to improving quality of life of patients in elderly and senile age after operation of Bricker by finding the optimal method of forming ureterointestinal anastomosis. From 2007 to 2009 103 patients of elderly and senile age with diseases requiring removal of the bladder were treated in the Lenigrad Regional Oncology Centre. All the patients were made cystectomy. Patients were divided into two groups: In 1st group, the ureterointestinal anastomosis was formed a classical way "end to side" described Bricker, in the 2nd group ureterointestinal anastomosis was performed by the method of Wallace - "common area". Pathological conditions developed in patients in late postoperative period were as follows: hydronephrosis in early and later stages, obstructive pyelonephritis, frequent attacks of chronic pyelonephritis, chronic renal failure, urinary fistula. Formation of ureterointestinal anastomosis by Wallace during surgery reduces the amount of later postoperative complications. Quality of life was better after the formation of ureterointestinal anastomosis by Wallace.

[Outcomes of surgical treatment for locally advanced gastric cancer]

Results of surgical treatment of 223 patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (2000-2005) are presented. Postoperative complications rate was 25.6 +/- 2.5%, mortality--5.8 +/- 0.7%, overall survival--17.9 +/- 2.6%, median survival--12 months. Survival rates were higher following palliative treatment. Groups of patients in which RO resections failed to improve the end results were identified. That in turn calls for working out differentiated surgical strategies.

[The use of myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of surgical defects in the oropharyngeal area]

Oncological Dispensary of Leningrad Region, St.Petersburg Our paper deals with evaluation of the results of using distal pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (38) in 37 patients; bilateral dissection of tissue--1. Plastic reconstruction of surgical effects of the oral cavity and pharynx was performed in 27 (skin cancer--8, parotid salivary gland tumor--1). Flap was used to both shield the parotid artery and prevent erosive bleeding following radical cervical dissection, urgent plastic surgery--30, postponed--8. Complication, chiefly slight was reported in 60.5% and treated conservatively. Total necrosis was identified in 2 (5.3%), partial--4 (10.8%), salivary fistula--10 out of 27 reconstructions of the upper intestinal tract (18.4%), cervical suture failure--7 (18.4%), flap avulsion from wound edges--6 (15.8%), wound edge avulsion--2 (5.3%). Nasogastric probe for feeding was used for approx. 23.7 days. Feeding per os after the first operation was restored in 23 (85.2%). Repeat reconstruction using pectoralis major myocutaneous flap has proved effective in patients with surgical effects of head and neck.

[Palliative resection in esophageal cancer]

A 20-year experience of treatment of 633 patients with cancer of the thoracic esophagus has been evaluated. Far advanced disease was diagnosed in 384 (60.7%). Radical, palliative and symptomatic surgery was performed in 421 (66.5%), 44. (6.9%) and 168 (26.6%), respectively. No significant differences were reported between the immediate results of radical and palliative treatment. Since survival and quality of life after palliative resection appeared to be better than after symptomatic surgery, the former should be recommended for use in clinic.

[Quality of life of patients with breast cancer receiving hormonal therapy, depending on age and marital status]

Our study involved 247 patients with histologically verified breast tumors, aged 48-89, who had received hormones - tamoxifen as first-line therapy, exemestan (second-line) for 12 months. FACT-B and FACT-G questionnaires were used to assess quality of life. Worse results were reported in tamoxifen-treated patients older than 60 years. Indices of emotional and social security in the two groups: 60-70 year-olds (10.8+/-0.96% and 14.3+/-1.27% vis-à-vis 14.8+/-1.31% and 15.6+/-1.42%, respectively) and over 70 year-olds (15.2+/-1.46% and 15.8+/-1.48%, respectively). Our evidence suggested that a large-seale complex of effective psychological rehabilitation be given, particularly, to those under 60, married andlor with minors, right from the very beginning of treatment.

A phase II study of Hsp-7 (SGN-00101) in women with high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

OBJECTIVE

Approximately 2 million women worldwide are infected with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), resulting in a substantial risk for the development of invasive lower genital malignancies. This study was undertaken to determine the effects of vaccination with a protein encoding a bacterial heat shock protein fused to sequences from the oncogenic E7 protein of HPV-16 in women with high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Endpoints included lesion regression, immune response, and viral clearance.

METHODS

Twenty-one women were prospectively entered into an IRB-approved Phase II study. All women had biopsy-proven high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and persistent post-biopsy lesions visible by colposcopy. Four injections of HPV-16 Hsp E7 fusion protein at a dose of 500 mug were given 3 weeks apart after which Loop Electrosurgical Excision of the Transformation Zone (LLETZ) was performed. Immune parameters were evaluated pre-vaccine and at the time of LLETZ, and HPV testing was performed at intervals before and after LLETZ. Study subjects were followed for 1 year after LLETZ.

RESULTS

Seven of 20 women (35%) evaluable for response had complete regression of their intraepithelial neoplasia at the time of LLETZ, 1 (5%) had regression to CIN I, 11 (55%) had stable disease and 1 (5%) had progression due to enlargement of her lesion. Immune responses were seen in 9 of the 17 women tested; 5 of the 7 complete responders had an immune response. Only 5 of 21 women had HPV-16 or -18. HPV clearance was not associated with lesion regression.

CONCLUSION

Hsp-7 (SGN-00101), at this dose and schedule induced lesion regression in women with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia. The fact that regression was correlated with immune response suggests that enhancing the immunogenicity of this vaccine may lead to improvement in the rate of lesion eradication.

Endometrial cancer patients have a significant risk of harboring isolated tumor cells in histologically negative lymph nodes

In this study, we examine the prevalence of finding isolated tumor cells (ITCs) in negative lymph nodes of endometrial cancer patients using immunohistochemistry. Seventy-six endometrial cancer patients with lymph nodes histologically negative for metastatic disease were examined. Nodal tissue sections were stained with anticytokeratin antibodies AE-1 and CAM 5.2. Nodes with single or groups of cells (two to four cells) < or =0.2 mm and showing cytokeratin reactivity were positive for ITCs. Findings were compared to features of the primary tumor and patient outcome. ITCs were present in 31 of 1712 lymph nodes. Fifteen (19.7%) patients had ITC-positive nodes. ITCs involved only pelvic nodes in nine cases, only para-aortic nodes in five cases, and pelvic and para-aortic in one case. Tumor in adnexa was the only pathologic feature associated with nodal ITCs (P= 0.0485). All 15 patients with nodal ITCs were alive at follow-up. One (6.7%) patient suffered recurrent disease but was alive at last encounter. Disease recurred in 5 (8.8%) of 57 patients without nodal ITCs. Two are alive without disease, two alive with disease, and one died from her cancer. In summary, a significant proportion of endometrial cancer patients have ITCs detected by immunohistochemistry in histologically negative regional lymph nodes.

Endometrial cancer patients have a significant risk of harboring isolated tumor cells in histologically negative lymph nodes

In this study, we examine the prevalence of finding isolated tumor cells (ITCs) in negative lymph nodes of endometrial cancer patients using immunohistochemistry. Seventy-six endometrial cancer patients with lymph nodes histologically negative for metastatic disease were examined. Nodal tissue sections were stained with anticytokeratin antibodies AE-1 and CAM 5.2. Nodes with single or groups of cells (two to four cells) ≤0.2 mm and showing cytokeratin reactivity were positive for ITCs. Findings were compared to features of the primary tumor and patient outcome. ITCs were present in 31 of 1712 lymph nodes. Fifteen (19.7%) patients had ITC-positive nodes. ITCs involved only pelvic nodes in nine cases, only para-aortic nodes in five cases, and pelvic and para-aortic in one case. Tumor in adnexa was the only pathologic feature associated with nodal ITCs (P = 0.0485). All 15 patients with nodal ITCs were alive at follow-up. One (6.7%) patient suffered recurrent disease but was alive at last encounter. Disease recurred in 5 (8.8%) of 57 patients without nodal ITCs. Two are alive without disease, two alive with disease, and one died from her cancer. In summary, a significant proportion of endometrial cancer patients have ITCs detected by immunohistochemistry in histologically negative regional lymph nodes.

The impact of anti HPV vaccination on cervical cancer incidence and HPV induced cervical lesions: consequences for clinical management

Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. Screening for cervical cancer is accomplished utilizing a Pap smear and pelvic exam. While this technology is widely available and has reduced cervical cancer incidence in industrialized nations, it is not readily available in third world countries in which cervical cancer incidence and mortality is high. Development of cervical cancer is associated with infection with high risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) creating a unique opportunity to prevent or treat cervical cancer through anti-viral vaccination strategies. Several strategies have been examined in clinical trials for both the prevention of HPV infection and the treatment of pre-existing HPV-related disease. Clinical trials utilizing prophylactic vaccines containing virus-like particles (VLPs) indicate good vaccine efficacy and it is predicted that a prophylactic vaccine may be available within the next five years. But, preclinical research in this area continues in order to deal with issues such as cost of vaccination in underserved third world populations. A majority of clinical trials using therapeutic agents which aim to prevent the progression of pre-existing HPV associated lesions or cancers have shown limited efficacy in eradicating established tumors in humans possibly due to examining patients with more advanced-stage cancer who tend to have decreased immune function. Future trends in clinical trials with therapeutic agents will examine patients with early stage cancers or pre-invasive lesions in order to prevent invasive cervical cancer. Meanwhile, preclinical studies in this field continue and include the further exploration of peptide or protein vaccination, and the delivery of HPV antigens in DNA-based vaccines or in viral vectors. Given that cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus, the prospect of therapeutic vaccination to treat existing lesions and prophylactic vaccination to prevent persistent infection with the virus are high and may be implemented in the near future. The consequences for clinical management may include a significant reduction in the frequency of Pap smear screening in the case of prophylactic vaccines, and the availability of less invasive and disfiguring treatment options for women with pre-existing HPV associated lesions in the case of therapeutic vaccines. Implementation of both prophylactic and therapeutic vaccine regimens could result in a significant reduction of health care costs and reduction of worldwide cervical cancer incidence.

[Comparative clinical evaluation of the effectiveness of modified radical mastectomy and organ-preserving therapy in localized breast cancer (pT1-2N0M0)]

The outcome of 320 patients with breast tumors was followed. Modified total mastectomy with subsequent irradiation, chemo- and/or hormone therapy was given to 164 patients. Limb-saving surgery was performed in 156. Incidence of locally advanced recurrences did not differ significantly in the two groups--3.7 and 5.5%, respectively. Nor did 5-year overall (90 +/- 1.4% and 88.4% +/- 1.6%, respectively) and relapse-free survival (88.4 +/- 1.2% and 83.5 +/- 1.4%, respectively) (p < 0.05). Hence, mastectomy is not worth more than sparing treatment.

[Long-term outcome of surgical treatment of patients with esophageal cancer]

Under study were the results of surgical treatment of 185 patients with esophageal carcinoma. One-year survival was 75.4%, 2-year survival was 49.6%, 3-year--43.4%, and 4-year survival--33.3%. Among the patients with tumors with the invasion degree T1, T2, T3 and having no metastases to the regional lymph nodes the resection of the esophagus in combination with the extended lympho dissection resulted in 4-year survival in more than 50% of the patients operated upon. In patients with tumors T3N1, T4N1 and especially with the simultaneous involvement of several lymph collectors the 4-year survival was 21.4%. The operative intervention at this stage of the disease should be considered as a palliative means in the greater part of the patients.

The use of a pelvic displacement prosthesis to exclude the small intestine from the radiation field following radical hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to develop a device which will elevate the small intestine out of the pelvic cavity during radiation after radical surgery.

METHODS

A prosthetic device of silicone plastic was designed which conforms to the pelvis. This device is filled with saline and renograffin for X-ray visualization. The capacity of the device is between 750 and 1500 cc. A small bowel contrast radiograph is performed prior to radiation to document exclusion from the radiation field. The device remains in place throughout radiation therapy and is then removed through a small incision after draining the contents of the prosthesis.

RESULTS

Seven devices have been placed to date. The patients' age ranged from 35 to 65 years. All women had stage Ib1 carcinoma of the cervix and all underwent a type III radical hysterectomy with bilateral pelvic and common iliac lymphadenectomy. The indication for placement of the device was deep invasion of tumor in five patients, close margin in one patient, and positive pelvic lymph nodes in one patient. The amount of fluid instilled in the device ranged from 960 to 1200 cc. All patients had a return to normal bowel function within 3 days of surgery. All had radiologically documented exclusion of the small intestine from the radiation field prior to beginning radiation. In the postoperative period there was one major complication: a pulmonary embolism documented by pulmonary angiogram on postoperative day 2. All seven patients completed planned radiotherapy. The devices have been removed, with no adhesions to the prosthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study determine that the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of a prosthetic device in displacing the small bowel from the radiation field following radical surgery are sufficient to warrant a large-scale study. The device should be applicable to any and all tumors that require high dose pelvic radiation. It is expected that displacement of the small intestine from the radiation field will diminish overall complications and may allow delivery of radiation doses that approach colon and bladder tolerance.

[Lymph node dissection in esophageal cancer]

Results of surgical treatment of 70 patients with carcinoma of the thoracic part of the oesophagus were analyzed. The extended two-levels (intraabdominal and intrathoracic) lymphodissection is the necessary part of the operation. Postoperative lethality was 2.9%, one year and 2 years survival was 85.8 and 69% correspondingly. The data obtained show that it is expedient to introduce the extended two-levels lymphodissection into clinical practice.

A phase II study of gemcitabine and cisplatin in patients with advanced, persistent, or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the response rate and toxicity of cis-platinum and gemcitabine in advanced, recurrent, or persistent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.

METHODS

From July 1997 to January 1999, we conducted a Phase II trial in patients with advanced, persistent, or recurrent carcinoma of the cervix. The schedule employed 1250 mg/m(2) of gemcitabine on days 1 and 8 and 50 mg/m(2) of cis-platinum on day 1 in a 21-day cycle. Eligibility criteria were a GOG performance status of 0-2, adequate bone marrow reserve, serum creatinine less than 1.8 mg%, and a lesion which could be measured in two dimensions. None of the patients had received prior chemotherapy other than radiation sensitizers. Standard GOG toxicity and response criteria were used.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients were enrolled into the trial. Two patients were inevaluable because of inadequate trial of drug. Seventeen patients were evaluable for response and toxicity. The median age of the patients was 47 years (range 24-72). The median number of cycles delivered was 5 (range 2-8). The incidence of grade 4 neutropenia and anemia was 2.4 and 1.2%, respectively. Two patients developed a single episode of grade 3 gastrointestinal toxicity. The overall response rate was 41% (7/17). There was 1 complete response of 14 months duration and 6 partial responses. Among those patients not previously irradiated, the response rate was 57% (4/7). Among the radiated patients, the response rate was 30% (3/10) with all responses occurring in the radiation field.

CONCLUSION

This combination of cis-platinum and gemcitabine is a well-tolerated regimen which exhibits high activity in advanced, recurrent, or persistent squamous cell cervical cancer.

Cold-knife conization versus conization by the loop electrosurgical excision procedure: a randomized, prospective study

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to compare the diagnostic ability and treatment efficacy of conization by the loop electrosurgical excision procedure with cold-knife conization.

STUDY DESIGN

One hundred eighty women who required conization for diagnosis and treatment of cervical dysplasia or microinvasive cervical carcinoma were prospectively enrolled in a randomized clinical trial to receive either cold-knife conization or conization by the loop electrosurgical excision procedure. Conization complications, rate of lesion clearance, and therapeutic outcome were assessed for the 2 study groups.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in the complication rate (P = 1.00), the rate of lesion clearance (P =.18), or the rate of disease recurrence (P =.13) between the 2 study groups. The mean follow-up was 11.2 months in the cold-knife conization group and 10.4 months in the loop-excision conization group.

CONCLUSION

Cold-knife conization and loop-excision conization yield similar diagnostic and therapeutic results.

A phase II trial of CPT-11 in recurrent squamous carcinoma of the cervix: a gynecologic oncology group study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the response rate and associated toxicity of weekly CPT-11 in squamous carcinoma of the cervix.

METHODS

From October 1994 to May 1996, the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) conducted a Phase II trial in patients with recurrent squamous cervix carcinoma. The schedule employed weekly x4 intravenous CPT-11 at 125 mg/m2 followed with a 2-week rest, to be repeated until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Eligibility criteria were a GOG performance status of 0-2, adequate bone marrow reserve, adequate liver function, and serum creatinine <2 mg%. None of the patients had received prior chemotherapy other than radiation sensitizers. Standard GOG toxicity and response criteria were used.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were entered into the trial. Three patients were ineligible because of wrong cell type (N = 2) or inadequate pathology material (N = 1). Two were inevaluable because of inadequate trial of drug. An additional 4 patients were inevaluable for response. Thus, 49 were evaluable for toxicity and 45 were evaluable for response. The median age of patients was 45 years (range, 29-71 years). The median number of weekly doses delivered was 7 (range, 1-46). The incidence of grade 4 neutropenia and anemia was 6.1 and 4.1%, respectively. Nineteen patients (38.8%) developed gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity including 8 with grade 3 and 11 with grade 4 severity. The overall response rate was 13.3% (6/45). There was 1 patient death from GI toxicity. There was one complete response of 8.8 months duration and 5 partial responses.

CONCLUSION

OFFis schedule of CPT-11 exhibits modest activity with moderate toxicity in patients with recurrent squamous carcinoma of the cervix.

Carcinoembryonic antigen in women with isolated pelvic masses. Clinical utility?

OBJECTIVE

To determine the usefulness of serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) determination in predicting the nature of an isolated pelvic mass.

STUDY DESIGN

Two hundred twenty-six women with an isolated pelvic mass had a serum CEA determination preoperatively. The results were correlated with the histopathologic findings.

RESULTS

CEA was elevated in 19 of the 226 women. Twelve of the 183 (7%) women with benign masses, 2 of the 17 (12%) women with tumors of low malignant potential and 5 of the 15 (33%) women with a frankly invasive epithelial ovarian cancer had elevated CEA. None of the women with a malignant germ cell or stromal tumor had elevated CEA (P = .06 for prediction of malignancy.) There were no cases of metastatic gastrointestinal malignancies in the study group. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of serum CEA were 16%, 93%, 37% and 83%, respectively. The corresponding figures for serum CA-125 were 67%, 71%, 35% and 90%. There was no statistically significant correlation between elevated CEA and mucinous histology.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative serum CEA determination in women with isolated pelvic masses is not useful.

Influence of quantity of lymph-vascular space invasion on the risk of nodal metastases in women with early-stage squamous cancer of the cervix

OBJECTIVE

To determine if the quantity of lymph-vascular space invasion influences the risk of pelvic nodal metastases in women with early-stage cervical squamous carcinoma.

METHODS

Between 1991 and 1997, 105 women with stages IA2, Ib, and IIa squamous carcinoma of the cervix underwent radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy. The histopathology slides were prospectively reviewed. If lymph-vascular space invasion (LVSI) was present, the amount was quantified in four ways: percentage of cervical histopathologic sections containing LVSI, percentage of sections with tumor containing LVSI, total number of foci of LVSI, and maximal number of foci of LVSI in 10 high-powered fields. These measures of LVSI were correlated with the risk of nodal metastases.

RESULTS

Seventy-three (70%) women had tumors with LVSI. Of these, 23 had pelvic nodal metastases. All women with nodal metastases had tumors with LVSI. Using logistic regession, independent predictors of nodal metastases were depth of cervical stromal invasion (P = 0.01) and tumor size (P = 0.04). LVSI was also a significant predictor of nodal metastases based on the Mantel-Haenszel test (P = 0.01). In women whose tumors contained LVSI, logistic regression identified tumor size (P = 0.004) and LVSI in > 45% of all cervical histopathologic sections (P = 0.002) as significant predictors of nodal metastases.

CONCLUSION

The quantity of LVSI, as defined by the percentage of all cervical histopathologic sections containing LVSI, correlates significantly with the risk of nodal metastases in women with early-stage squamous carcinoma of the cervix.

Detection of ovarian cancer cells: comparison of a telomerase assay and cytologic examination

BACKGROUND

Telomerase is an enzyme essential for the normal replication of chromosomes. Telomerase activity is absent in most somatic cells in adults, but it is usually expressed in cancer cells, including ovarian carcinoma cells. Our principal goal was to compare the sensitivity of a telomerase assay, i.e., the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) assay, with that of cytologic examination in detecting cancer cells in the peritoneal cavity of patients with ovarian carcinoma.

METHODS

TRAP assays and cytologic examinations were performed on peritoneal washings and ascitic fluids from 42 patients with active ovarian carcinoma. Control specimens included washings from 29 patients with benign ovarian diseases and ascitic fluids from 14 patients with liver failure. We also evaluated the stability of telomerase in ascitic fluids left unprocessed at room temperature as well as the ability of the TRAP assay to detect cancer cells in mixtures containing large numbers of normal cells.

RESULTS

Specimens from 37 (88%) of the 42 patients with ovarian carcinoma tested positive for telomerase. Cytologic examination detected cancer cells in only 27 of the telomerase-positive specimens (i.e., in specimens from 64% of the 42 patients). This difference of 24% (95% confidence interval = 17%-30%) in sensitivity between the two tests was statistically significant (two-sided P = .002). Specimens from five of the patients with ovarian carcinoma were cytologically negative and telomerase negative. All 43 control specimens were cytologically negative, but the TRAP assay detected telomerase in two of them. Telomerase activity was detected in unprocessed samples left at room temperature for 5 days and in mixtures containing a small number of cancer cells and a 2000- to 10000-fold excess of normal cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Assaying for telomerase is more sensitive than cytologic examination in detecting cancer cells in the peritoneal cavity of patients with ovarian carcinoma.

Risk of residual invasive disease in women with microinvasive squamous cancer in a conization specimen

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the risk of residual invasion when cervical conization reveals microinvasive squamous carcinoma and to determine whether any factors affect this risk.

METHODS

We reviewed the charts and histopathology slides of 87 women who underwent a conization that contained microinvasive squamous carcinoma, followed by either a repeat conization or hysterectomy. Depth of invasion, number of invasive foci, and status of the internal margin and post-conization endocervical curettage (ECC) were assessed. The findings were correlated with the presence of residual invasion.

RESULTS

Significant predictors of residual invasion included status of the internal margin (residual invasion present in 22% of women with an involved margin versus 3% with a negative margin; P < .03) and the combined status of the internal margin and post-conization ECC (residual invasion in 4% of patients if both negative, 13% if one positive, and 33% if both positive; P < .015). Depth of invasion and number of invasive foci in the conization specimen were not significant. The power of this study to detect a 25% difference in the risk of residual invasion was 73% for depth of invasion and 75% for number of invasive foci.

CONCLUSION

Women with microinvasive squamous carcinoma in a conization specimen in which both the internal conization margin and post-conization ECC are negative have a low risk of residual invasion and are candidates for follow-up or simple hysterectomy. If either the internal margin or the post-conization ECC contains dysplasia or carcinoma, the risk of residual invasion is high and warrants repeat conization before definitive treatment planning.

Carboplatin as a radiation sensitizer in locally advanced cervical cancer: a pilot study

Radiation therapy is the mainstay in treatment of locally advanced cervical carcinoma. Several chemotherapeutic agents have been used as radiation sensitizers in the treatment of cervical cancer in an effort to improve local response and survival. A prospective study was designed to evaluate carboplatin as a radiosensitizer in advanced cervical cancer. Standard radiotherapy techniques were used to treat patients with Stage IIA-IIIB cervical cancer. Intravenous carboplatin was administered twice weekly concurrent with external beam radiation. Of 22 evaluable patients, there were 19 complete responders of whom 15 remain alive: 11 patients were alive and disease free at last visit for a median duration of 15 months follow-up (range, 4-43 months) and 4 patients remain alive with disease for a median duration of 17 months (range, 3-55 months). Seven have died, one of whom was without evidence of disease. There were no treatment-related deaths and no grade 4 toxicity. The most significant adverse effect was hematologic resulting in four patients with grade 3 neutropenia or anemia. There were no fistulae or late gastrointestinal or genitourinary complications. This pilot study suggests that carboplatin administered with standard radiation is safe, well-tolerated, and thus may be useful as a radiation sensitizer in the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer.

Pelvic examination, tumor marker level, and gray-scale and Doppler sonography in the prediction of pelvic cancer

OBJECTIVE

To determine the ability of pelvic examination, tumor marker assessment, and transvaginal ultrasonography, with selected use of Doppler ultrasonography, to predict pelvic malignancy.

METHODS

Two hundred twenty-six women scheduled for operative removal of a pelvic mass were entered in the study prospectively. Each woman underwent pelvic examination, tumor marker assessment, and transvaginal ultrasonography preoperatively. Women whose gray-scale findings were suspicious for malignancy underwent Doppler ultrasonography. Suspicious findings included masses that were fixed or irregular on pelvic examination; CA 125 level greater than 35 U/mL; elevations in serum lactic dehydrogenase, alpha-fetoprotein, or hCG; and the presence of a substantial solid component on gray-scale ultrasonography. Suspicious Doppler findings included intratumoral color flow, pulsatility index less than 1.0, or resistance index 0.4 or lower. The findings were correlated with the presence of malignancy.

RESULTS

If all three indicators (examination, tumor marker assessment, and gray-scale ultrasound findings) were nonsuspicious, 99% of premenopausal women and 100% of postmenopausal women had benign masses. If all three indicators were suspicious, 77% of premenopausal women and 83% of postmenopausal women had malignant tumors. Logistic regression identified ultrasound impression and tumor size to be significant predictors of malignancy in premenopausal women, whereas CA 125 level and ultrasound impression were significant in postmenopausal women. In patients with suspicious gray-scale findings, recategorization based on Doppler findings resulted in inferior diagnostic indices.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonographic tumor size and appearance are the best predictors of pelvic malignancy in premenopausal women, whereas CA 125 level and ultrasonographic appearance are the best predictors in postmenopausal women. Neither color nor spectral Doppler is useful in this setting.

[The quality of medical care given to patients with esophageal cancer in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region]

The data on the morbidity, time of diagnosis and results of treatment of esophageal cancer in St. Petersburg and Leningrad Region (1992-1994) were analyzed. The morbidity rates were higher in women than in men, the predominant age being over 60. Morphological verification data were not available in almost half the cases. Stage I-II tumors were detected in 15.7-26.5%. Specialized treatment was given to 25%, combination one-to nearly 2%. To raise the standards of medical aid, it is suggested that measures be taken to ensure stable operation of the Cancer Register, St. Petersburg, and to offer treatment to esophageal cancer patients at specialized medical facilities.

[Successful surgical treatment of cancer with multiple location]

The lecture deals with the specific characteristics of cell membrane damage caused by in vivo and in vitro irradiation at the dosage commonly used in radiation therapy of malignant tumors. The mechanisms of lymphoid cell loss to ionizing radiation are described. They include metabolic depletion, direct damage to the cell membrane causing loss of its asymmetry and surface receptors expression being altered.

[Ultrasonic diagnosis of nodal lesions of the axillary-jugular lymphatic plexus and their evolution]

Axillary lymph nodes of three levels may be adequately differentiated on the basis of the TNM classification by application of layer-by-layer tomographic examination of axillary fossa and thoracic and clavicular-thoracic triangles in the axillary cavity. Echographs show musculus thoracis minor as a distinct point of reference. Topographic features of deep lateral cervical lymph nodes may be used in anatomical identification of internal jugular nodes, transverse cervical artery, accessory nerve and suprajugular lymph nodes. In cases of multiple involvement of lymph nodes, their shape (chain or cluster) may be identified. It can be shown Whether lymph flows are in series, collateral centripetal, collateral centrifugal (recirculatory) or run parallel in metastatic areas. Varying patterns of lymph flow through collateral pathways formed in the axillary-jugular lymph plexus are responsible for the variety of patterns of lesion clusters in the lymph nodes system.

Residual disease in the uterus after preoperative radiotherapy and hysterectomy in stage IB cervical carcinoma

Sixty-one patients with FIGO IB cervical cancer treated with planned preoperative radiotherapy (dose to point A: 52-93 Gy, mean 73 Gy) and hysterectomy from 1969 to 1993 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient characteristics and treatment parameters and their association with residual tumor in the hysterectomy specimen were analyzed. Glandular (adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous) tumors were smaller than squamous tumors: 6/11 (55%) were < 6 cm in diameter, versus 12/50 (24%) squamous tumors (p = 0.03). Glandular tumors had a higher incidence of residual disease: 10/11 (91%) versus 24/50 (48%) (p = 0.01). There was no association between presence of pathologic residual disease in the hysterectomy specimen and tumor size, morphology (endophytic vs. exophytic), patient age, dose to point A, time to deliver radiotherapy, or interval between radiotherapy and hysterectomy. Overall 34/61 (56%) patients had residual disease in their hysterectomy specimens after planned preoperative radiotherapy. There were significantly more glandular tumors than squamous tumors with residual disease, even though glandular tumors were a group of smaller tumors.

[Variants in the definitive organization of the lumbar lymph-conducting pathways in the applied aspect]

Topographic-anatomical investigations gave grounds for the description of 4 stages of the development of the posterior parietal bed of the abdominal cavity. On the basis of the embryo-anatomical systematization three morpho-topographic types of the lumbo-lymphatic pathways were established: right-sided (20%), left-sided (20%) and uniform (60%) types, each of them playing a certain part in metastasizing. Embryo-anatomical grounds are given for operative accesses to the superficial group of the right and left lumbar lymphatic pathways.

Preliminary analysis of the behavior of stage I ovarian serous tumors of low malignant potential: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study

PURPOSE

From December 1983 through February 1992, a prospective study designed to determine the clinical course of patients with ovarian tumors of low malignant potential (LMP) was conducted by the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This protocol was developed to evaluate the following (1) the biologic behavior of ovarian LMP tumors, (2) the effectiveness of melphalan chemotherapy in patients with clinically detectable residual disease after surgical staging and in patients whose tumors progress or recur after surgical therapy, and (3) the response rate to cisplatin in those who failed to respond to melphalan therapy. The study group consisted of 146 assessable patients with stage I serous LMP tumors. All of these women had the affected ovary (or ovaries) removed, and a complete staging operation was performed in each case. While 123 patients had a total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO), 21 retained the uterus and one normal-appearing ovary and fallopian tube. No adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy was administered to any patients in the stage I study group.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 42.4 months (range, 1.6 to 108). Thus far, no patient with a stage I ovarian serous LMP tumor has developed recurrent disease.

CONCLUSION

Stage I ovarian serous LMP tumors rarely, if ever, recur. Limited resection, after meticulous surgical exploration, is adequate therapy for women of reproductive age.

[Use of automated information systems Oncoregistry and Specialist-Oncologist in establishing cancer registry of the Leningrad region]

The paper describes the basic features and structure of a cancer register (CR) of the Informational Analytical Service System which can perform a package of interrelated functions to record and analyze an oncological condition, the status of anticancer struggle and the achieved level of specialized care for those who have fallen ill. CR is a fully independent structure of medical application wherein informational provision occupies the dominant position. The basic function of CR is also given in the paper. In Saint Petersburg and in the Leningrad Region there are all necessary conditions for successful CR operation. The basic software support of CR represents the automatic informational systems (AIS): Oncoregister AIS and Specialist-Oncologist AIS. The block diagram of these AISs and their informational communication are presented in this paper.

Differentiation of benign and malignant adnexal masses: relative value of gray-scale, color Doppler, and spectral Doppler sonography

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate prospectively the relative usefulness of color Doppler, spectral Doppler, and gray-scale sonography in differentiating benign from malignant adnexal masses.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 170 adnexal masses in 161 patients were classified prospectively as suggestive of or not suggestive of malignant tumor on the basis of gray-scale morphology, internal flow versus peripheral or no flow, and spectral Doppler pulsatility, as measured by a pulsatility index (PI) threshold of 1.0 and a resistive index (RI) threshold of 0.4.

RESULTS

Surgical pathology revealed 123 benign masses and 46 malignant masses. One malignant mass was confirmed by cytologic evaluation of ascitic fluid. On gray-scale analysis, 46 of the 47 malignant masses were classified as suggestive of tumor, and 76 of the 123 benign masses were classified as not suggestive of tumor (sensitivity, 98%; specificity, 62%; negative predictive value [NPV], 99%; and positive predictive value [PPV], 50%). The use of internal color flow as a predictor of malignant tumor yielded a sensitivity of 77%, a specificity of 69%, an NPV of 89%, and a PPV of 49%. The PI and RI values were significantly lower (p < .0001) in malignant masses than in benign masses, although the values overlapped considerably. For a PI of less than 1.0, sensitivity was 67%, specificity was 66%, NPV was 83%, and PPV was 46%. For an RI of less than 0.4, sensitivity was 24%, specificity was 90%, NPV was 73%, and PPV was 50%.

CONCLUSION

In our series, a gray-scale prediction of benignity was reliable (NPV = 99%), and a prediction of malignancy was unreliable (PPV = 50%). Internal color flow was not useful as a predictor of malignancy (PPV = 49%). Although the absence of internal or peripheral color flow suggested benignity (NPV = 94%), only 17 (16 benign) of the masses (about 10%) had no flow. Spectral Doppler analysis with RI and PI was not useful, as no reliable discriminatory value with both high sensitivity and high specificity could be found for either parameter because of the overlap in values obtained for benign and malignant masses.