89Zr-DFO-girentuximab for PET imaging of solid tumors likely to express high levels of carbonic anhydrase IX

TPS738

Background: Carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) is a cell surface antigen that is widely expressed in many cancers including clear cell renal cell carcinoma, urothelial and triple negative breast cancers, and thus is a potential target for imaging and therapy. 89Zr-DFO-girentuximab (hereafter referred to as TLX250-CDx) is a diagnostic radiopharmaceutical for PET imaging that targets CAIX and has demonstrated clinical success in ccRCC imaging. Genitourinary (GU) cancer types that express CAIX lack robust diagnostic and management options. To improve the morbidity and mortality, diagnostic and therapeutic innovation is needed; theranostics with TLX250-CDx may play an integral role. Moreover, TLX250-CDx could assist with patient selection for immuno-oncology therapy as CAIX tumoral expression is associated with resistance to immunotherapy. Finally, TLX250-CDx imaging could provide a cost-effective method for monitoring response to various therapies. In this pilot study, patients with different tumor types likely to express CAIX that lack effective therapies will be evaluated for TLX250-CDx tumor uptake. Methods: This is an open-label, non-randomized study to evaluate feasibility of targeting CAIX for potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Data gathered from this pilot study will support a larger trial with patients with the tumor types expressing the greatest avidity forTLX250-CDx, as well as therapeutic studies targeting CAIX. The study's primary objective is to noninvasively evaluate TLX250-CDx PET/CT imaging of CAIX tumoral expression in different solid tumors. The secondary objective is to evaluate tolerability and safety of TLX250-CDx administration in patients with different tumor types. Patients with cancer types including cervical and ovarian (minimum 5 patients per type) will be enrolled. Patients must have at least one non-central nervous system measurable target lesion (as per RECIST 1.1) documented by conventional imaging performed within 30 days before dosing. Patients will receive a single administration of TLX250-CDx (37 MBq [1mCi] ± 10%, containing 10 mg of girentuximab), and will undergo PET/CT imaging 5 ± 2 days later. Tumor uptake of TLX250-CDx will be assessed per lesion, up to the 10 most active lesions. Qualitative visual analysis (presence or absence of localized uptake associated with tumor, as seen on contrast-enhanced CT, MRI and/or FDG PET/CT), will be used to evaluate concordance of tumor lesion detection between TLX250-CDx PET/CT and conventional imaging according to RECIST 1.1. Patient safety will be evaluated based on incidence and nature of adverse events and clinically significant changes in laboratory test values, vital signs, or physical exam. Statistics will be descriptive with no formal hypothesis. The study is ongoing. Acknowledgements: Stefanie D. Martina, MS (Telix Pharmaceuticals) provided writing/editorial support. Clinical trial information: NCT05563272 .

Results from phase 3 study of 89Zr-DFO-girentuximab for PET/CT imaging of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ZIRCON)

LBA602

Background: The increasing detection of renal masses presents a significant patient management challenge. Diagnostic options include cross-sectional imaging, which cannot reliably differentiate benign and malignant renal masses, and biopsy, which is invasive and subject to sampling errors. These limitations highlight the unmet need for accurate noninvasive techniques to guide patient management. Girentuximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX), an enzyme highly expressed in clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC). Radiolabeled 89Zr-DFO-girentuximab (TLX250-CDx) is highly specific for CAIX and can aid differentiation between ccRCCs and other renal lesions. The ZIRCON study evaluated the performance of TLX250-CDx PET/CT for detection of ccRCC in adult patients with indeterminate renal masses (IDRM). Methods: ZIRCON was an open-label, multicenter clinical trial. Patients with an IDRM (≤ 7 cm; tumor stage cT1) who were scheduled for partial nephrectomy within 90 days from planned TLX250-CDx administration were eligible. Enrolled patients received a single dose of TLX250-CDx IV (37 MBq ± 10%; 10 mg girentuximab) on Day 0 and underwent PET/CT imaging on Day 5 (± 2 days) prior to surgery. Blinded central histology review determined ccRCC status. The coprimary objectives were to evaluate both the sensitivity and specificity of TLX250-CDx PET/CT imaging in detecting ccRCC in patients with IDRM, using histology as the standard of truth. Key secondary objectives included sensitivity and specificity of TLX250-CDx PET/CT imaging in the subgroup of patients with IDRM ≤ 4 cm (cT1a). Other secondary objectives included positive and negative predictive values, safety, and tolerability. The Wilson 95% confidence intervals (CI) lower bound for sensitivity and specificity had to be > 70% and 68% respectively for ≥ 2 independent readers to declare the study successful. Results: 300 patients received TLX250-CDx; mean age was 62 ± 12 y; 71% were males. Of 288 patients with central histopathology of surgical samples, 193 (67%) had ccRCC, and 179 (62%) had CT1a; Of 284 evaluable patients included in primary analysis, the average across all 3 readers for sensitivity and specificity was 86% [80%, 90%] and 87% [79%, 92%] respectively for coprimary endpoints; and 85% [77%, 91%] and 90% [79%, 95%] respectively for key secondary endpoints. For all readers, the lower boundaries of 95% CI for coprimary and key secondary endpoints were > 75%. For all evaluable patients, positive and negative predictive values were ≥ 91.7% and ≥ 73.7%, respectively. Of 263 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), 2 TEAEs were treatment related. Conclusions: This study confirms that TLX250-CDx PET/CT is well tolerated and can accurately and noninvasively identify ccRCC, with promising utility for designing best management approaches for patients with IDRM. Clinical trial information: NCT03849118 .

Combination of pasireotide and octreotide: effects on GH and IGF-I secretion and glucose metabolism in healthy volunteers

PURPOSE

To assess the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and tolerability of different doses of octreotide and pasireotide (subcutaneous [sc] and long-acting release [LAR]) when co-administered in healthy volunteers.

METHODS

This was an exploratory, Phase I, single-centre study. Healthy adults were enrolled in a staggered approach into seven cohorts to receive octreotide and pasireotide (sc and LAR formulations), alone or in combination. Plasma drug concentrations, growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), and plasma glucose were assessed at baseline, immediately after sc treatment, and 21 and 28 days after LAR treatment.

RESULTS

Of 88 enrolled subjects, 52 and 82 participated in sc and LAR dosing phases, respectively. There were no relevant pharmacokinetic interactions between octreotide and pasireotide. In combination, pasireotide sc (150 µg) and octreotide sc (100/300 µg) resulted in numerically greater reductions in insulin levels and a higher incidence of AEs than either single agent; the rapid (within 1 h) increase in plasma glucose after pasireotide was delayed with combination treatment. Octreotide sc and pasireotide sc, alone or in combination, reduced IGF-I levels and led to undetectable GH levels in most subjects. During the LAR phase, addition of a low dose of pasireotide (5 mg) to a standard dose of octreotide (20 mg) resulted in an ~2-fold reduction in median IGF-I versus octreotide 20 mg 21 days post-dose; this effect was numerically greater than seen for pasireotide 20 mg alone. Peak plasma glucose was substantially lower after LAR than sc dosing. Interestingly, glucose levels were also numerically lower in the pasireotide 5 mg plus octreotide 20 mg group than for 20 mg of octreotide or pasireotide alone. AEs were less frequent after LAR than sc dosing.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined low doses of pasireotide LAR (5 mg) and octreotide LAR (10-30 mg) provided greater suppression of IGF-I than either single agent and did not increase blood glucose or incidence of AEs versus either agent alone.

Long-acting pasireotide improves clinical signs and quality of life in Cushing's disease: results from a phase III study

PURPOSE

Cushing's disease (CD) is associated with significant clinical burden, increased mortality risk, and impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This analysis explored the effect of long-acting pasireotide on clinical signs of hypercortisolism and HRQoL in a large subset of patients with CD.

METHODS

In this phase III study (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01374906), 150 adults with CD and a mean urinary free cortisol (mUFC) level between 1.5 and 5.0 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) started long-acting pasireotide 10 or 30 mg every 28 days with dose increases/decreases permitted based on mUFC levels/tolerability (minimum/maximum dose: 5/40 mg). Changes in clinical signs of hypercortisolism and HRQoL were assessed over 12 months of treatment and were stratified by degree of mUFC control for each patient.

RESULTS

Patients with controlled mUFC at month 12 (n = 45) had the greatest improvements from baseline in mean systolic (- 8.4 mmHg [95% CI - 13.9, - 2.9]) and diastolic blood pressure (- 6.0 mmHg [- 10.0, - 2.0]). Mean BMI, weight, and waist circumference improved irrespective of mUFC control. Significant improvements in CushingQoL total score of 5.9-8.3 points were found at month 12 compared with baseline, irrespective of mUFC control; changes were driven by improvements in physical problem score, with smaller improvements in psychosocial score.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-acting pasireotide provided significant improvements in clinical signs and HRQoL over 12 months of treatment, which, in some cases, occurred regardless of mUFC control. Long-acting pasireotide represents an effective treatment option and provides clinical benefit in patients with CD.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01374906.

Efficacy and safety of osilodrostat in patients with Cushing's disease (LINC 3): a multicentre phase III study with a double-blind, randomised withdrawal phase

BACKGROUND

Cushing's disease is a rare endocrine disorder characterised by cortisol overproduction with severe complications. Therapies for cortisol reduction are often necessary. Here we report the outcomes from the pivotal phase III study of osilodrostat (a potent oral inhibitor of cytochrome P450 11B1, mitochondrial [11β-hydroxylase]; Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland) in patients with Cushing's disease.

METHODS

LINC 3 was a prospective, multicentre, open-label, phase III study with a double-blind randomised withdrawal period, that comprised four periods. Patients aged 18-75 years, with confirmed persistent or recurrent Cushing's disease (defined as mean 24-h urinary free cortisol [UFC] concentration >1·5 times the upper limit of normal [ULN] and morning plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone above the lower limit of normal) who had previously had pituitary surgery or irradiation, or were newly diagnosed and who refused surgery or were not surgical candidates, were recruited from 66 hospital sites and private clinical practices in 19 countries. In period 1, open-label osilodrostat was initiated in all participants and adjusted every 2 weeks (1-30 mg twice daily; film-coated tablets for oral administration) on the basis of mean 24-h UFC concentration and safety until week 12. In period 2, weeks 13-24, osilodrostat was continued at the therapeutic dose determined during period 1. In period 3, beginning at week 26, participants who had a mean 24-h UFC concentration of less than or equal to the ULN at week 24, without up-titration after week 12, were randomly assigned (1:1), via an interactive-response technology, stratified by osilodrostat dose at week 24 and history of pituitary irradiation, to continue osilodrostat or switch to placebo for 8 weeks. Participants and investigators were masked to treatment assignment. Ineligible participants continued open-label osilodrostat. In period 4, weeks 35-48, all participants were given open-label osilodrostat until core-study end. The primary objective was to compare the efficacy of osilodrostat versus placebo at the end of period 3. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants who had been randomly assigned to treatment or placebo with a complete response (ie, mean 24-h UFC concentration of ≤ULN) at the end of the randomised withdrawal period (week 34), without up-titration during this period. The key secondary endpoint was the proportion of participants with a complete response at the end of the single-arm, open-label period (ie, period 2, week 24) without up-titration during weeks 13-24. Analysis was by intention-to-treat for all patients who received at least one dose of osilodrostat (full analysis set; key secondary endpoint) or randomised treatment (randomised analysis set; primary endpoint) and safety was assessed in all enrolled patients who received at least one dose of osilodrostat and had at least one post-baseline safety assessment. LINC 3 is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02180217, and is now complete.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 12, 2014, and March 22, 2017, 202 patients were screened and 137 were enrolled. The median age was 40·0 years (31·0-49·0) and 106 (77%) participants were female. 72 (53%) participants were eligible for randomisation during the withdrawal phase, of whom 36 were assigned to continue osilodrostat and 35 were assigned to placebo; one patient was not randomly assigned due to investigator decision and continued open-label osilodrostat. More patients maintained a complete response with osilodrostat versus with placebo at week 34 (31 [86%] vs ten [29%]; odds ratio 13·7 [95% CI 3·7-53·4]; p<0·0001). At week 24, 72 (53%; 95% CI 43·9-61·1) of 137 patients maintained a complete response without up-titration after week 12. Most common adverse events (ie, occurred in >25% of participants) were nausea (57 [42%]), headache (46 [34%]), fatigue (39 [28%]), and adrenal insufficiency (38 [28%]). Hypocortisolism occurred in 70 (51%) patients and adverse events related to adrenal hormone precursors occurred in 58 (42%) patients. One patient died, unrelated to study drug, after the core study phase.

INTERPRETATION

Twice-daily osilodrostat rapidly reduced mean 24-h UFC and sustained this reduction alongside improvements in clinical signs of hypercortisolism; it was also generally well tolerated. Osilodrostat is an effective new treatment option that is approved in Europe for the treatment of endogenous Cushing's syndrome and in the USA for Cushing's disease.

FUNDING

Novartis Pharma AG.

Use of late-night salivary cortisol to monitor response to medical treatment in Cushing's disease

OBJECTIVE

Monitoring of patients with Cushing's disease on cortisol-lowering drugs is usually performed with urinary free cortisol (UFC). Late-night salivary cortisol (LNSC) has an established role in screening for hypercortisolism and can help to detect the loss of cortisol circadian rhythm. Less evidence exists regarding the usefulness of LNSC in monitoring pharmacological response in Cushing's disease.

DESIGN

Exploratory analysis evaluating LNSC during a Phase III study of long-acting pasireotide in Cushing's disease (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01374906).

METHODS

Mean LNSC (mLNSC) was calculated from two samples, collected on the same days as the first two of three 24-h urine samples (used to calculate mean UFC [mUFC]). Clinical signs of hypercortisolism were evaluated over time.

RESULTS

At baseline, 137 patients had evaluable mLNSC measurements; 91.2% had mLNSC exceeding the upper limit of normal (ULN; 3.2 nmol/L). Of patients with evaluable assessments at month 12 (n = 92), 17.4% had both mLNSC ≤ULN and mUFC ≤ULN; 22.8% had mLNSC ≤ULN, and 45.7% had mUFC ≤ULN. There was high variability in LNSC (intra-patient coefficient of variation (CV): 49.4%) and UFC (intra-patient CV: 39.2%). mLNSC levels decreased over 12 months of treatment and paralleled changes in mUFC. Moderate correlation was seen between mLNSC and mUFC (Spearman's correlation: ρ = 0.50 [all time points pooled]). Greater improvements in systolic/diastolic blood pressure and weight were seen in patients with both mLNSC ≤ULN and mUFC ≤ULN.

CONCLUSION

mUFC and mLNSC are complementary measurements for monitoring treatment response in Cushing's disease, with better clinical outcomes seen for patients in whom both mUFC and mLNSC are controlled.

Long-term efficacy and safety of once-monthly pasireotide in Cushing's disease: A Phase III extension study

OBJECTIVES

Many patients with Cushing's disease (CD) require chronic pharmacotherapy to control their hypercortisolism. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of long-acting pasireotide during a long-term extension study in patients with CD.

DESIGN

Open-label extension to a 12-month Phase III study of long-acting pasireotide in CD (N = 150; NCT01374906).

PATIENTS

Patients with mean urinary free cortisol (mUFC) ≤ upper limit of normal (ULN) or receiving clinical benefit at core study end could continue long-acting pasireotide during the extension.

RESULTS

Eighty-one of 150 (54.0%) enrolled patients entered the extension. Median overall exposure to pasireotide at study end was 23.9 months; 39/81 (48.1%) patients completed the extension (received ≥ 12 months' treatment during the extension and could transit to a separate pasireotide safety study). mUFC was ≤ULN in 42/81 (51.9%), 13/81 (16.0%) and 43/81 (53.1%) patients at extension baseline, month (M) 36 and last assessment. Median mUFC remained within normal limits. Median late-night salivary cortisol was 2.6 × ULN at core baseline and 1.3 × ULN at M36. Clinical improvements were sustained over time. Forty-two (51.9%) patients discontinued during the extension: 25 (30.9%) before M24 and 17 (21.0%) after M24. Hyperglycaemia-related AEs occurred in 39.5% of patients. Mean fasting glucose (FPG) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA_1c ) were stable during the extension, with antidiabetic medication initiated/escalated in some patients. Sixty-six (81.5%) and 71 (88.9%) patients were classified as having diabetes (HbA_1c  ≥ 6.5%, FPG ≥ 7.0 mmol/L, antidiabetic medication use, or history of diabetes) at extension baseline and last assessment.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-acting pasireotide provided sustained biochemical and clinical improvements, with no new safety signals emerging, supporting its use as an effective long-term therapy for CD.

Long-term safety and efficacy of subcutaneous pasireotide in patients with Cushing's disease: interim results from a long-term real-world evidence study

PURPOSE

Clinical trials have demonstrated the favorable efficacy/safety profile of pasireotide in patients with Cushing's disease (CD). We report interim long-term results of an ongoing real-world evidence study of subcutaneous pasireotide in patients with CD.

METHODS

Adults with CD receiving pasireotide, initiated before (prior-use) or at study entry (new-use), were monitored for ≤ 3 years during a multicenter observational study ( http://clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02310269). Primary objective was to assess long-term safety of pasireotide alone or with other CD therapies.

RESULTS

At the time of this interim analysis, 127 patients had received pasireotide (new-use, n = 31; prior-use, n = 96). Eight patients had completed the 3-year observation period, 53 were ongoing, and 66 had discontinued. Among 31 new-use and 92 prior-use patients with ≥ 1 safety assessment, respectively: 24 (77%) and 37 (40%) had drug-related adverse events (AEs); 7 (23%) and 10 (11%) had serious drug-related AEs. Most common drug-related AEs were nausea (14%), hyperglycemia (11%) and diarrhea (11%); these were more frequently reported in new users and mostly of mild-to-moderate severity. 14 (45%) new-use and 15 (16%) prior-use patients experienced hyperglycemia-related AEs. Mean urinary free cortisol (mUFC) was within normal range at baseline and months 1, 12 and 24, respectively, in: 1/16 (6%), 9/18 (50%), 1/3 (33%) and 0/0 new users; 28/43 (65%), 15/27 (56%), 27/33 (82%) and 12/19 (63%) prior users.

CONCLUSIONS

Pasireotide is well tolerated and provides sustained reductions in mUFC during real-world treatment of CD. The lower rate of hyperglycemia-related AEs in prior users suggests that hyperglycemia tends not to deteriorate if effectively managed soon after onset.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02310269.

OR16-2 Osilodrostat Treatment in Cushing's Disease (CD): Results from a Phase III, Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized Withdrawal Study (LINC 3)

Background: In a Phase II study, osilodrostat, a potent oral 11β-hydroxylase inhibitor, normalized mean urinary free cortisol (mUFC) in most patients with CD (Fleseriu M et al. Pituitary 2016;19:138-48). We report the efficacy and safety of osilodrostat in a large CD patient population in the first randomized withdrawal Phase III study in this rare, serious disorder (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02180217). Methods: Phase III, multicenter, double-blind, randomized withdrawal study following a 24-week, open-label, single-arm treatment phase. Open-label osilodrostat was initiated at 2 mg bid in 137 adults with CD and mUFC (mean of three 24-h samples) >1.5xULN (ULN=50.0 µg/24h), with dose adjustments every 2 weeks (dose range 1-30 mg bid) up to week (W) 12 based on efficacy (if mUFC >ULN) and tolerability. At W26, 71 eligible patients (mUFC ≤ULN at W24 without a dose increase after W12) were randomized to continue osilodrostat (n=36) or matching placebo (n=35) for 8 weeks, followed by open-label osilodrostat until W48. Patients who remained on treatment at W26 but were not eligible for randomization continued open-label osilodrostat (n=47). Primary endpoint: patients in each randomized group with mUFC ≤ULN at the end of the randomized withdrawal phase (W34) without a dose increase after W26. For all mUFC assessments, patients who discontinued were classed as non-responders at subsequent time points. Results: At baseline, median (range) mUFC was 3.5xULN (0.3-69.6) in enrolled patients. At the end of the randomized withdrawal period (W34), significantly more patients maintained mUFC ≤ULN (without a dose increase after W26) in the osilodrostat group than in the placebo group (86% vs 29%; OR 13.7, P<0.001). Other endpoints: at W24, 53% of enrolled patients had mUFC ≤ULN without a dose increase after W12 (key secondary endpoint); at W48, 66% of enrolled patients had mUFC ≤ULN; 96% of enrolled patients had mUFC ≤ULN at least once during the study; median time to first mUFC ≤ULN was 41 days. Median (range) duration of osilodrostat exposure was 75 weeks (1-165). By W48, 24 (18%) patients had discontinued the study, 15 (11%) because of AEs. Overall, the most common AEs were nausea (42%), headache (34%) and fatigue (28%). AEs related to hypocortisolism and adrenal-hormone-precursor accumulation occurred in 51% and 42% of patients, respectively. The most common AEs reported in the osilodrostat group during the randomized withdrawal period were nausea (11% vs 0% for placebo), anemia (8% vs 9%), arthralgia (8% vs 0%) and headache (8% vs 0%). Conclusion: Osilodrostat was significantly superior to placebo at maintaining mUFC ≤ULN after randomized withdrawal and normalized mUFC in two-thirds of enrolled patients at W48, with few patients discontinuing treatment because of AEs. This randomized withdrawal study demonstrates osilodrostat to be a highly effective treatment for CD, with good tolerability.

SAT-443 Osilodrostat Has No Clinically Relevant Effect on the Pharmacokinetic (PK) Profile of a Monophasic Oral Contraceptive in Healthy Females Receiving Cortisol Replacement Therapy

Background: Osilodrostat, a potent oral 11β-hydroxylase inhibitor, is in Phase 3 development for endogenous Cushing’s syndrome (CS). As CS occurs mostly in females of childbearing age, it is important to determine the effect of osilodrostat on oral contraceptives (OCs). We report the effect of multiple osilodrostat doses on the PK profile of a single OC dose in healthy females on cortisol replacement. Methods: This Phase 1, single-center, open-label, three-period, drug-drug interaction study enrolled healthy, non-smoking females aged 18-50 y with regular menstrual cycles. A single OC dose, containing ethinyl estradiol (EES) 30 μg and levonorgestrel (LVG) 150 μg, was given on day (D) 1 of treatment period 1 (TP1; D1-7). In TP2 (D8-19), osilodrostat 30 mg twice daily was given with hydrocortisone 20 mg daily; a second OC dose was given on D15. Hydrocortisone was tapered/discontinued during TP3 (D20-28). Primary variable: AUC_last (area under curve from time 0 to last measurable concentration) and C_max (peak plasma concentration) of EES and LVG, calculated from a 120h OC PK profile on D1 and D15. Secondary endpoints: osilodrostat PK; safety/tolerability of OC and osilodrostat co-administration. Results: 24 subjects were enrolled (mean ± SD age, 37 ± 7 years; Caucasian, 96%). EES and LVG AUC_last were similar when OC was given with osilodrostat (n=19) vs alone (n=24) [geometric mean: EES, 541 vs 537 pg∙h/mL; LVG, 44900 vs 42300 pg∙h/mL]. Insignificant decreases in C_max were seen for OC with osilodrostat vs alone (geometric mean: EES, 51.6 vs 59.8 pg/mL; LVG, 3360 vs 3800 pg/mL). Apparent total clearance, t_½ (half-life) and t_max (time to C_max) were similar with and without osilodrostat for EES and LVG, except for a small increase in t_½ of LVG with osilodrostat (26.4 vs 22.9 h). For osilodrostat PK (n=19), geometric means for AUC_τ (AUC to end of dosing period at steady state) and C_max, and median t_max, were 1620 ng∙h/mL, 299 ng/mL, and 1.0 h, respectively. Most (92%) subjects received both OC doses; 83% completed osilodrostat treatment. At the end of TP3 (2 days after last hydrocortisone dose), 79% of subjects had ACTH-stimulated serum cortisol below the protocol-defined threshold, although all had normal unstimulated levels at study end; these results may be related to high osilodrostat doses, hydrocortisone supplementation, timing of first stimulation test after last hydrocortisone dose or another factor. Other common AEs: nausea (46%), headache and nasopharyngitis (both 38%). Four (17%) subjects discontinued due to: palpitations, n=1; throat tightness, n=1; asthenia and exhaustion, n=1; positive pregnancy test, n=1 (not confirmed by ultrasound). Conclusion: Concomitant treatment of osilodrostat (highest dose used in Phase 3 trials) with a single OC dose did not result in clinically relevant changes in OC PK parameters, suggesting that OC can be given with osilodrostat and provide adequate contraception.

MON-445 Long-Term Results of an Ongoing Non-Interventional, Real-World Observational Study of Pasireotide SC in Cushing's Disease

Background: Clinical trials have shown that subcutaneous (sc) pasireotide effectively decreases urinary free cortisol (UFC), improves signs/symptoms and has a favorable safety profile in patients with Cushing’s disease (CD). We describe interim long-term safety and efficacy results of an ongoing multicenter observational study of pasireotide sc in real-world clinical practice for CD (NCT02310269). Methods: This study aims to enroll 100-200 adults with CD for whom surgery has failed or is not an option. Eligible patients could have started pasireotide before (prior use) or at (new use) study entry. Primary endpoint: incidence of pasireotide-related adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs (SAEs) over a 3-year observation period. Secondary endpoint: proportion of patients with mean UFC (mUFC) not exceeding the upper limit of normal (ULN) at months 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36. Results: As of October 1, 2017, 127 patients had received ≥1 dose of pasireotide. Median (range) exposure to pasireotide was 30.5 months (1.9-118.4) in the 96 prior-use patients (12.0 months [0.3-14.6] on study) and 3.4 months (0.1-18.4) in the 31 new-use patients. Median (range) daily dose was 1.2 mg/day (0.2-2.2). Pasireotide was discontinued early in 44 (45.8%) prior-use and 22 (71.0%) new-use patients; 15 (15.6%) prior-use and 12 (38.7%) new-use patients discontinued because of AEs. Of 123 patients (92 prior use, 31 new use) with ≥1 safety assessment, 98 (79.7%) experienced ≥1 AE. Drug-related AEs were recorded in 37 (40.2%) prior-use and 24 (77.4%) new-use patients. The most common were: nausea, recorded in 7 (7.6%) prior-use and 10 (12.9%) new-use patients; hyperglycemia, recorded in 5 (5.4%) prior-use and 9 (29.0%) new-use patients; diarrhea, recorded in 8 (8.7%) prior-use and 5 (16.1%) new-use patients. Except for hyperglycemia, drug-related AEs were reported in similar proportions between cohorts. Drug-related SAEs occurred in 10 (10.9%) prior-use and 7 (22.6%) new-use patients, of which hyperglycemia was the most common, experienced by 3 (9.7%) new-use and no prior-use patients. Overall, hyperglycemia-related AEs were recorded in 16 (17.4%) prior-use and 16 (51.6%) new-use patients. Of patients with evaluable UFC assessments, mUFC was ≤ULN at baseline and months 6, 12, 24 and 36, respectively, in 28/43 (65%), 27/40 (68%), 27/33 (82%), 12/19 (63%) and 2/2 (100%) prior-use patients, and 1/16 (6%), 4/8 (50%), 1/3 (33%), 0/0 and 0/0 new-use patients. Conclusion: Pasireotide sc was generally well tolerated in this real-world study; AEs were expected based on findings from previous clinical trials, with no new safety signals observed. Sustained suppression of mUFC was observed with pasireotide. A lower incidence of hyperglycemia was found in prior versus new users, which suggests that pasireotide-induced hyperglycemia does not worsen over time if appropriately managed at onset.

Efficacy and safety of once-monthly pasireotide in Cushing's disease: a 12 month clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Cushing's disease is a rare debilitating endocrine disorder for which few prospective interventional studies have been done. We report results of the first phase 3 trial assessing long-acting intramuscular pasireotide in patients with Cushing's disease.

METHODS

In this phase 3 clinical trial we recruited patients aged 18 years or older with persistent, recurrent, or de-novo (non-surgical candidates) Cushing's disease who had a mean urinary free cortisol (mUFC) concentration (from three 24 h samples) of 1·5-5·0 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), a normal or greater than normal morning plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone concentration, and a pituitary source of Cushing's syndrome, from 57 sites across 19 countries. Exclusion criteria included previous pasireotide treatment, mitotane therapy within 6 months, and pituitary irradiation within 10 years. We randomly allocated patients 1:1 (block size of four) using an interactive-response-technology system to intramuscular pasireotide 10 mg or 30 mg every 4 weeks for 12 months (in the core phase). We stratified randomisation by screening mUFC concentration (1·5 to <2·0 × ULN and 2·0-5·0 × ULN). The dose could be uptitrated (from 10 mg to 30 mg or from 30 mg to 40 mg) at month 4 if the mUFC concentration was greater than 1·5 × ULN, and at month 7, month 9, or month 12 if the mUFC concentration was greater than 1·0 × ULN. Investigators, patients, site personnel, and those assessing outcomes were masked to dose group allocation. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients in each group with an mUFC concentration of less than or equal to the ULN at month 7. Efficacy analyses were based on intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01374906.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 28, 2011, and Dec 9, 2014, we randomly allocated 150 patients to receive pasireotide 10 mg (74 [49%] patients) or 30 mg (76 [51%] patients). The primary efficacy endpoint was met by 31 (41·9% [95% CI 30·5-53·9]) of 74 patients in the 10 mg group and 31 (40·8% [29·7-52·7]) of 76 in the 30 mg group. The most common adverse events were hyperglycaemia (36 [49%] in the 10 mg group and 36 [47%] in the 30 mg group), diarrhoea (26 [35%] and 33 [43%]), cholelithiasis (15 [20%] and 34 [45%]), diabetes mellitus (14 [19%] and 18 [24%]), and nausea (15 [20%] and 16 [21%]). Serious adverse events suspected to be study drug related were reported in eight (11%) patients in the 10 mg group and four (5%) in the 30 mg group. Two (3%) patients in the 30 mg group died during the study (pulmonary artery thrombosis and cardiorespiratory failure); neither death was judged to be related to the study drug.

INTERPRETATION

Long-acting pasireotide normalised mUFC concentration in about 40% of patients with Cushing's disease at month 7 and had a similar safety profile to that of twice-daily subcutaneous pasireotide. Long-acting pasireotide is an efficacious treatment option for some patients with Cushing's disease who have persistent or recurrent disease after initial surgery or are not surgical candidates, and provides a convenient monthly administration schedule.

FUNDING

Novartis Pharma AG.

Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and low bone density assessed by quantitative ultrasonometry in a cohort of postmenopausal Italian nuns

This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of clothing style on bone mass and fractures in 70 postmenopausal nuns residing in a monastery in Naples. Sixty healthy women matched for age, body mass index, and menopausal status were enrolled as controls. Each participant underwent measurement by quantitative ultrasonometry (QUS) using a DBM Sonic Bone Profiler (IGEA S.p.A., Carpi, Modena, Italy) at proximal phalanges, responded to questionnaires regarding lifestyle, calcium intake, medical history, including clinical fragility fractures, and was submitted to routine biochemical assessment. A significant reduction in ultrasonometric parameters of bone mass was found in nuns compared with controls (p from 0.007 to <0.0001). 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH vit D) levels were reduced by more than 50% in nuns (9.8 ± 4.2 vs 23.5 ± 5.7 nmol/L; p < 0.0001), whereas their estimated daily calcium intake was higher (1.004 ± 0.23 vs 0.721 ± 0.25 g of controls; p = 0.0007). Age at menopause was significantly lower in nuns' group (p = 0.016). Incidence of fractures was higher in nuns (39% vs 10%; p = 0.0029), and the best predictors of fractures were age at menopause (odds ratio [OR]: 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.30), amplitude-dependent speed of sound T-score (OR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.03-1.63), and bone transmission time T-score (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.15-1.81). This study documented low 25-OH vit D levels, increased frequency of clinical fractures, and low bone mass detected by QUS in Southern Italian nuns.

Idiopathic chronic urticaria and thyroid autoimmunity: Experience of a single center

Urticaria is one of the most frequent dermatosis, being its prevalence in general population estimated about 20%. This prospective case-control study was aimed at determining the prevalence of thyroid autoimmune disorders in a cohort of patients with chronic urticaria (CU), all living within an area with mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency. Fifty four consecutive patients affected by CU were recruited and compared to 108 healthy controls. Assessment of the thyroid function included measurement of serum concentrations of TSH, FT3, FT4, anti-thyreoglobulin (anti-TG) and anti-peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies. Ultrasound scan of the thyroid gland was performed in all subjects using a 7.5 MHz linear transducer. All subjects were followed up for 6 months. The prevalence of thyroid antibodies was significantly higher in our cohort of patients with CU than in controls (22% vs. 6.5 %). Hashimoto's thyroiditis was also more frequent in patients than controls (18.5% vs. 1.8%). These frequencies do not differ from those previously reported by some other authors and confirm the association between CU and thyroid autoimmunity also in the area of iodine deficiency. However, presence of antibodies or thyroiditis does not seem to influence clinical course of CU. These results suggest that screening for thyroid function may be useful in all the patients with CU.

Prediction of response to growth hormone treatment in pre-pubertal children with growth hormone deficiency

BACKGROUND

GH therapy response varies substantially among patients. Several models were developed to predict the efficacy of GH therapy in children.

AIM

To evaluate the accuracy of a growth prediction model using data from an Italian pediatric GH deficiency (GHD) cohort (GeNeSIS, Growth Prediction Sub-study).

METHODS

Open-label, multicenter study in 22 Italian pre-pubertal GH treatment- naïve patients with GHD (8 female, 14 male, 0.5 to 12.2 yr), 18 isolated GHD, 4 multiple pituitary hormone deficiency given recombinat human GH therapy (0.025-0.035 mg/kg/day) for 12 months. Growth prediction was performed, after 3 months of treatment, using baseline data [bone age (BA) and IGF-I], a urinary marker of bone turnover [deoxypyridinoline crosslinks (DPD)] at 4 weeks, and height velocity (HV) at 3 months. Results were expressed as 1st-yr HV using the following equation: 1-yr HV (cm) = 3.543 - (2.337 × BA) - (0.010 × IGF-I) + (0.100 × DPD) + (0.299 × 3-month HV). Predictions were compared to the 1st-yr HV and accuracy was calculated as percentage of the difference between mean calculated HV and the real 1st-yr HV.

RESULTS

For females predicted HV was 12.98 ± 4.82 cm/yr and actually was 13.05 ± 3.91 cm/yr after the 1st year; for males predicted HV was 13.95 ± 5.39 cm/yr and actually was 12.93 ± 5.02 cm/yr.

CONCLUSIONS

In this paediatric Italian cohort with GHD, a growth prediction model seems to be a valid tool to assess 1st-yr response to GH treatment in Italian children.

Weekly clodronate treatment prevents bone loss and vertebral fractures in women with subclinical Cushing's syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Chronic mild endogenous glucocorticoid excess has been shown to cause bone loss and to increase fracture risk in both post-menopausal and premenopausal women. Currently, it is unclear if patients with subclinical Cushing's syndrome (SCS) with osteoporosis or osteopenia may benefit from antiresorptive treatment and the type of therapy to be given.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot randomized study was aimed at evaluating the effects of 12-month im administration of clodronate (100 mg every week) on vertebral and femoral bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers and on subjective pain in premenopausal women with SCS due to adrenal incidentalomas.

METHODS

Forty-six women (age, 43.1+/-7.7 yr) with SCS due to adrenal incidentaloma and osteoporosis/osteopenia were randomized to receive clodronate plus supplement of Calcium (500 mg daily) and Vitamin D3 (800 mg daily) (group 1, no.=23) or supplements only (group 2, no.=23). Both groups were similar in terms of age, body mass index, cortisol levels, BMD values, and bone turnover markers. All of the women were re-evaluated after 12 months.

RESULTS

After 12 months of treatment, in group 1, a significant increase in lumbar BMD occurred (p=0.04), while bone turnover markers decreased by about one third (p<0.05). In group 2, bone turnover markers did not change and BMD values slightly decreased (p=ns). The differences in bone turnover markers and in lumbar BMD between the two groups were significant (p<0.05, all). No new vertebral fracture occurred in group 1, while in group 2 the spine radiographies revealed 2 new fractures and a worsening of two pre-existent fractures. An improvement in subjective back pain, assessed by visual analogue scale pain score was observed in group 1 (from 4.3+/-2.7 to 2.9+/-2.0; p<0.05) but not in group 2 (from 4.4+/-3.1 to 4.2+/-3.4; p=ns). No significant changes occurred in cortisol secretion or clinical picture of the SCS during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Intramuscular administration of clodronate effectively increased lumbar BMD values, preserved bone mass at the femoral neck, stabilized vertebral fracture index, and decreased subjective back pain in pre-menopausal women with SCS. Since the untreated group continued to lose bone, antiresorptive treatment should be considered in patients with SCS, according to the prevision of surgical treatment, prevalent fractures, BMD values, age, concomitant morbidities, and desire for pregnancy.

A novel mutation in the N-terminal region of the CYP17A1 gene in a patient with 17 alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase deficiency

The deficiency of 17 alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase causes a rare autosomal recessive disorder presenting with congenital adrenal insufficiency (CAH) and sexual infantilism. Both 17 alpha-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase reactions are catalyzed by a single polypeptide, cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17), which is encoded by the CYP17A1 gene. We describe the clinical, hormonal, and molecular findings of a 33-yr-old patient presenting with primary amenorrhea, late onset hypertension, and hypokalemic myopathy. The molecular analysis of CYP17A1 revealed a novel homozygous missense mutation resulting in the substitution of arginine to lysine at the amino acid position 21 (p.R21L).

Effect of treatment with depot somatostatin analogue octreotide on primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) patients

BACKGROUND

In patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), expression of somatostatin receptor (SST) in parathyroid adenomas and effectiveness of therapy with somatostatin analogues on primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) have been scarcely investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of depot long acting octreotide (OCT-LAR) in patients with MEN1-related PHP.

PATIENTS

Eight patients with a genetically confirmed MEN1, presenting both PHP and duodeno-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NET), were enrolled.

DESIGN

The initial treatment was OCT-LAR 30 mg every 4 weeks. This therapy was established to stabilize the duodeno-pancreatic NET before to perform parathyroidectomy for PHP. Before OCT-LAR therapy, a SST scintigraphy was performed in all patients. SST subtype 2A immunohistochemistry was performed on parathyroid tumour samples from three patients undergone parathyroidectomy after OCT-LAR therapy.

MEASUREMENTS

Serum concentrations of PTH, calcium and phosphorus as well as the 24-h urine calcium : creatinine ratio and the renal threshold phosphate concentration were evaluated before and after OCT-LAR.

RESULTS

After OCT-LAR therapy, hypercalcaemia and hypercalciuria normalized in 75% and 62.5% of patients, respectively, and serum phosphorus and renal threshold phosphate significantly increased. Serum PTH concentrations significantly decreased in all patients and normalized in two of them. SST subtype 2A immunostaining was found in all parathyroid adenomas investigated, while SST scintigraphy showed a positive parathyroid tumour uptake in three of eight patients (37.5%).

CONCLUSION

Six months of OCT-LAR therapy controlled hypercalcaemia and hypercalciuria in two-thirds of patients with MEN1-related PHP. Direct OCT-LAR effects mediated by binding to SST expression on parathyroid tumour cells are likely the main mechanism to explain the activity of this compound on calcium and phosphorus abnormalities in MEN1 PHP.

The role of growth hormone in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis

Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is the most common form of secondary osteoporosis. GC influence bone metabolism via a modulation of different components of the GH/IGF-I system. GH has multiple anabolic effects on bone, either direct or mediated by IGF-I. GH-deficient subjects have significant reduction in bone mineralization, bone turnover markers, and increased fracture risk when compared with healthy age-matched controls. The increase of bone remodeling achieved by recombinant human GH (rhGH) therapy may be helpful in both males and females with decreased bone turnover and impaired osteoblastic function such as subjects with GC excess. rhGH treatment may improve lean body mass and skeletal muscle mass that may further reduce fracture risk in GIO patients. Nevertheless, the real efficacy of rhGH and IGF-I treatment in GIO and during aging is still controversial and further well-designed prospective controlled studies are necessary in order to clarify this issue, thus identifying who could potentially benefit from GH treatment.

Bone density and turnover in young adult patients with growth hormone deficiency after 2-year growth hormone replacement according with gender

GH deficiency (GHD) in adults is accompanied by reduced bone mass that may revert only after 2 yr of GH replacement. However, it is unclear whether the gender may modify bone responsiveness to GH replacement in adults. In this study we have evaluated whether bone mineral density (BMD) and turnover improve after GH replacement according to patients' gender. BMD at lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN), serum osteocalcin (OC), and urinary cross-linked N-telopeptides of type I collagen (Ntx) were assessed in 64 hypopituitaric patients (35 men, 30-50 yr) before and 2 yr after the beginning of GH replacement. Values of IGF-I and BMD at LS and at FN were expressed as Zscores. At study entry, IGF-I and BMD resulted similar among men and women with GHD. During GH replacement, IGF-I levels increased in both men and women without any difference in the percentage of IGF-I increase between the genders (p=0.47). In women receiving estrogen replacement, however, the percentage of IGF-I increase (p<0.05), and the Z IGF-I score (p<0.001) were significant lower than estrogen untreated women, although IGF-I levels were similar in the 2 groups (p=0.53). The GH dose adjusted for body weight required to restore normal age- and sex- matched IGF-I levels was lower in men than in women (p<0.001), and was higher in women receiving than in those not receiving estrogen replacement (p<0.05). In contrast, hypogonadal men treated with testosterone and eugonadal men received a similar GH dose (p=0.97). Also OC, Ntx levels, lumbar and femoral BMD improved (p<0.001) in all patients. Nevertheless, a greater increase in lumbar BMD increase was observed in men than in women (8.0+/-2.1 vs 2.6+/-0.4%; p<0.05). No significant difference was revealed in bone parameters in women treated or untreated with estrogen replacement and in men treated or not with testosterone replacement for concomitant hypogonadism. At the multiple correlation analysis, gender was a stronger predictor for the required GH dose than the age (p<0.001 and p=0.02, respectively). In conclusion, a 2-yr GH replacement normalizes IGF-I levels, increases bone mass and improves bone turnover both in men and in women with GHD without any difference between the 2 groups, provided that the dose of GH was modulated on the basis of IGF-I levels. Women receiving oral estrogens should receive a GH dose approximately doubled, as compared to men and women not receiving oral estrogens, to achieve similar effects on bone density and turnover. In particular, GH replacement dose, to be successful on bone mass and turnover, depends on gender in hypopituitary patients aged below 50 yr.

Adjuvant mitotane treatment for adrenocortical carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare neoplasm characterized by a high risk of recurrence after radical resection. Whether the use of mitotane is beneficial as an adjuvant treatment has been controversial. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of adjuvant mitotane in prolonging recurrence-free survival.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis involving 177 patients with adrenocortical cancer who had undergone radical surgery at 8 centers in Italy and 47 centers in Germany between 1985 and 2005. Adjuvant mitotane was administered to 47 Italian patients after radical surgery (mitotane group), whereas 55 Italian patients and 75 German patients (control groups 1 and 2, respectively) did not receive adjuvant treatment after surgery.

RESULTS

Baseline features in the mitotane group and the control group from Italy were similar; the German patients were significantly older (P=0.03) and had more stage I or II adrenocortical carcinomas (P=0.02) than did patients in the mitotane group. Recurrence-free survival was significantly prolonged in the mitotane group, as compared with the two control groups (median recurrence-free survival, 42 months, as compared with 10 months in control group 1 and 25 months in control group 2). Hazard ratios for recurrence were 2.91 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.77 to 4.78; P<0.001) and 1.97 (95% CI, 1.21 to 3.20; P=0.005), respectively. Multivariate analysis indicated that mitotane treatment had a significant advantage for recurrence-free survival. Adverse events associated with mitotane were mainly of grade 1 or 2, but temporary dose reduction was needed in 13% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant mitotane may prolong recurrence-free survival in patients with radically resected adrenocortical carcinoma.

Effects of estrogen-progestin therapy on serum levels of RANKL, osteoprotegerin, osteocalcin, leptin, and ghrelin in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of estrogen-progestin therapy on serum levels of receptor-activating nuclear factor kappabeta ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin, osteocalcin, leptin, and ghrelin in a cross-sectional study of 99 healthy postmenopausal women conducted at the Menopause Clinic of our department.

DESIGN

In this cross-sectional, observational study, 99 participants were divided into two groups. Group A was composed of 77 postmenopausal women who had never received estrogen-progestin therapy, and group B was composed of 22 postmenopausal women who had received transdermal 17beta-estradiol at a dose of 50 microg/day in a continuous regimen for at least 24 months and nomegestrol at a dose of 5 mg/day for 12 days/month in a sequential regimen. All participants underwent blood sampling in the morning and quantitative ultrasound bone-densitometry measurement of the proximal phalanges of the dominant hand.

RESULTS

T score and amplitude-dependent speed of sound were significantly higher in group B than in group A. No significant differences in RANKL, osteoprotegerin, and osteocalcin were observed between the two groups. Serum leptin levels were significantly lower in group B than in group A, whereas ghrelin was significantly higher in group B than in group A.

CONCLUSIONS

The data gathered in this preliminary study indicate that estrogen-progestin therapy may protect against postmenopausal bone loss, but this protective effect does not seem to be exerted through action on the RANK-RANKL-osteoprotegerin system. Similarly, although several reports suggest that leptin and ghrelin are involved in bone metabolism, we could not detect any important correlation of these two hormones with bone metabolism or bone status in treated and untreated postmenopausal women. Because of the limited number of treated participants and the study design, the results of this preliminary study must be confirmed in larger, prospective, longitudinal studies.

The role for growth hormone in linking arthritis, osteoporosis, and body composition

Adults with either GH deficiency (GHD) or GH excess have bone, metabolic, and somatic impairments. This review deals with available data on the relationship between GH status, bone mass, articular disorders, and body composition. GHD subjects have reduced bone mineralization and increased fracture rates. Acromegalic artropathy occurs in virtually all patients and in its late degenerative stages may resemble osteoarthritis. Abnormalities in GH/IGF-I were observed in patients with different forms of arthritis. When concerning body composition (BC), both severe and partial GHD are characterized by increased fat mass, especially truncal, and reduced lean mass. In acromegaly, an increase in body weight, lean mass, and extracellular water, and reduced fat mass were observed; these abnormalities did not always disappear after the normalization of GH/IGF-I levels. On the contrary, long-term GH replacement at physiological doses improved the abnormalities in BC and increased bone mineral density in men with adult-onset GHD, but discordant data were obtained for the bone effects in women. In conclusion, both GHD and GH excess are responsible for some well-defined alterations in metabolism, BC, bone mass, and joint physiology. Their normalization (by GH replacement or treatment of acromegaly) reverses most of these abnormalities, thus confirming their GH-related etiology.

Large idiopathic unilateral adrenal hematoma in a young woman

This is a case report on a young woman with a large idiopathic unilateral adrenal hematoma (AH). Only few cases of AH which were not associated with any trauma, previous surgery, coagulative or any other systemic disorders have been described. The mass was discovered by abdominal ultrasound which was performed for a recent flank pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the presence of a 13-cm sized lesion in the right hemi-abdomen; T1 and T2 weighed imaging was compatible with subacute-to-chronic adrenal hematoma. The lesion dislocated the liver and right kidney. Positron emission tomography (PET) did not show any significant radiotracer uptake by the mass. Serum cortisol, aldosterone, renin activity and DHEA-S were normal. Urinary catecholamines and free cortisol excretion were within the normal range too. The lesion was removed by transabdominal laparoscopic adrenalectomy without any complication. The histological exam confirmed a large subacute- to-chronic organized AH. In conclusion, in the absence of known risk factors, differential diagnosis of a large AH may not be easy. The possibility of an underlying pheochromocytoma, malignant adrenal or metastatic tumor must always be considered. In our patient, computed tomography (CT) scan and MRI suggested the presence of a large subacute-to-chronic AH, and PET excluded metabolic activity of the mass. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy can be the surgical treatment of choice in organized symptomatic AH. The correct diagnosis, early recognition and treatment of complications including adrenal insufficiency may decrease patient morbidity and mortality.

Imbalance of the Osteoprotegerin/RANKL Ratio in Bone Marrow Microenvironment After Allogeneic Hemopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Bone loss is a common complication after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) plays a critical role in bone remodeling by neutralizing the effect of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) on differentiation and activation of osteoclasts. We investigated OPG and RANKL in serum and marrow plasma in transplanted patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 36 patients and 36 controls, the relationships among bone mineral density, circulating OPG, RANKL, interferon-gamma, and interleukin-6 levels were investigated; in addition, OPG and RANKL were measured in marrow plasma and in conditioned medium of long-term cultures of marrow mesenchymal-derived osteogenic cells.

RESULTS

Lumbar and femoral bone mineral density were lower in patients than in controls (P<0.01). Serum OPG (sOPG) and interferon-gamma were significantly higher in patients than in controls (P<0.05). Patients' interferon-gamma correlated with sOPG levels (r=0.4; P=0.03). Interleukin-6 did not differ between patients and controls. By contrast, OPG levels were lower in patients than in controls in marrow plasma (P<0.001) and in conditioned media after one (P=0.035) and three months (P=0.003) of culture of marrow mesenchymal-derived osteogenic cells. RANKL was similar in patients and controls. The OPG/RANKL ratio "in situ" was significantly lower in patients than in controls (P<0.05). There was no correlation between sOPG and marrow OPG, RANKL levels, densitometric values, and chronic graft-versus-host disease.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: 1) sOPG bear no relationship with OPG in the bone marrow; 2) increased sOPG can be the result of its enhanced production in extra bone tissues triggered by inflammatory cytokines; 3) low bone marrow OPG levels may be partly related to the persistent quantitative and qualitative deficit of osteoblastic precursors; and 4) reduced OPG/RANKL ratio in bone microenvironment may increase bone remodeling by promoting bone resorption.

Incidence and pathological characteristics of prostate cancer in Italy: a contribution to the screening debate

BACKGROUND

The scientific, social and financial aspects of prostate cancer (PC) organized or opportunistic screening to identify early PC are hotly debated. The incidence of prostate cancer is lower in Italy than in America and North Europe and data on PC incidence and pathological characteristics are scarce.

METHODS

To determine PC incidence and whether screening would be beneficial, we studied 1008 consecutive symptomatic patients from the Southern Italy who underwent transrectal ultrasonography; 170 of them (age range: 48-93 years; median: 70 years) were at risk and underwent transrectal biopsy.

RESULTS

Adenomatous hyperplasia was detected in 105 patients (62%), PC in 51 (30%), prostate intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) in 5 (3%) and inflammatory disease in 5 (3%). The median age of patients with PC was 73.5 and tumors were generally well to moderately differentiated (76%, Gleason score < or =7). Prostate cancer (or PIN) was more frequent in patients over 70 (p<0.0001). The Gleason score also increased with age: >7 in 92% and 8% of patients aged >70 and < or =70, respectively (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of our results organized or opportunistic PC screening of elderly men does not appear justified because: invasive carcinoma is detected in less than 1/3 of symptomatic "healthy" men; patients became symptomatic when their life expectancy is often less than 10 years; and PC is more frequent and more aggressive after 70 years.

Effects of neridronate treatment in elderly women with osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common disorder, especially among elderly post-menopausal women. Elderly women are often affected by co-morbidities, impaired gastrointestinal function and reduced mobility; therefore, the treatment strategy for their osteoporosis can be difficult. In this randomized pilot study, we have investigated the effects of a 12-month treatment with neridronate on bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers and quality of life (QoL). The study included 40 women (age, 65-80 yr; post-menopausal period, >15yr) from a single osteoporosis centre. Twenty women received a monthly im injection of 25 mg of neridronate associated with a daily dose of 500 mg of calcium and 400 U of vitamin D. Twenty women received calcium plus vitamin D supplements alone. Changes in BMD at the lumbar spine and femoral neck were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Serum type I collagen C-telopeptide (sCTX), urinary free-deoxypyridinoline (ufDPD), bone alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and serum osteocalcin levels were determined. For the QoL assessment, the Italian version of the SF-36 test was administrated. Spine and hip BMD rose by 6.6 +/- 3 and 4.2 +/- 2.3%, respectively (p < 0.05), after 12 months of neridronate treatment. Markers of skeletal turnover significantly fell already after 3 months of neridronate treatment and decreased progressively thereafter within 12 months. The mean decrease at 12 months ranged from 38 +/- 11% for sCTX to 25.2 +/- 15% for ufDPD (p < 0.001, all). The mean improvement in QoL in the treated group was 45.7% for bodily pain, 37.5% for general health perception, 23.1% for vitality, 18% for emotional role functioning and 12% for physical role functioning. The changes observed in BMD, turnover markers and QoL in the untreated group were ns. The intermittent neridronate administration was easily manageable and well tolerated. In conclusion, neridronate currently represents a valid option for the treatment of osteoporosis, since it helps just as much as oral BPs in the improvement of BMD and in particular conditions it can be even more effective.

Somatopause: dismetabolic and bone effects

The physiological changes that the human body undergoes during aging are similar to those observed in GH deficiency (GHD). Early changes of aging are represented by increased fat mass, increased cardiovascular risk, reduced muscle mass and strength, reduced exercise tolerance, thinned skin, decreased strength and impaired quality of life. These observations led to hypothesize that the elderly could be GH deficient and would benefit from GH treatment. However, the effects of GH treatment in healthy elderly subjects by randomized and controlled studies are less promising than initially hypothesized. The etiopathology of age-related bone loss is multifactorial including menopause, andropause, somatopause and secondary hyperparathyroidism. GH has multiple effects on bone, either direct or mediated by IGF-I, stimulating osteoblast proliferation as well as osteoclast differentiation. Consequently, decline in GH secretion reduces bone turnover that causes osteopenia in young adults, but it has been hypothesized that it could protect against fractures in elderly subjects. The increase of bone remodeling achieved by GH therapy may be helpful in elderly men and women who have severely decreased bone turnover and impaired osteoblastic function. In conclusion, the endocrine pattern of aging is distinct from the decrease of GH/IGF-I levels associated with hypopituitarism. However, GH plays a role in metabolism and bone physiology throughout the human life span, although there is insufficient evidence for a clear therapeutic role of rhGH in aging. Thus, more data are needed to define the effects of somatopause to identify who could potentially benefit from the effects of somatotropic treatment.

An oncologist-based model of cancer genetic counselling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

We describe a multistep model of cancer genetic counselling designed to promote awareness, and disease surveillance and preventive measures for hereditary and familial breast and ovarian cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Step T0 of the model entails information giving; this is followed by pedigree analysis and risk estimation (T1), risk communication and genetic testing (T2), and genetic test result communication (T3). User consent was required to proceed from one step to the next. Surveillance and preventive measures are proposed to at-risk users. Of the 311 subjects who requested cancer genetic counselling, consent data to each counselling step were available for 295: 93 were disease-free, 187 had breast cancer, 12 had ovarian cancer and three had breast plus ovarian cancer.

RESULTS

Consent was high at T0 (98.39%), T1 (96.40%) and T2 (99.65%). Consent decreased at the crucial points of counselling: T2 (87.71%) and T3 [genetic test result communication (85.08%), and extension of counselling to and testing of relatives (65.36%)].

CONCLUSIONS

The model fosters the user's knowledge about cancer and favours identification of at-risk subjects. Furthermore, by promoting awareness about genetic testing and surveillance measures, the algorithm enables users to make a fully informed choice of action in case of predisposing or familial cancer risk.

Long-term efficacy of doxazosin plus atenolol in the management of severe and sustained arterial hypertension and reversibility of the cardiac damage induced by chronic cathecolamine excess. A case report in a young girl with recurrent, functioning paraganglioma

Herein we report on a young girl with recurrent, functioning paraganglioma of the organ of Zuckerkandl and severe and sustained arterial hypertension (systolic pressure >200, diastolic pressure >120 mmHg); with evidence of cardiac damage induced by chronic cathecolamine excess. She promptly and steadily improved after the institution of doxazosin (6 mg/day) plus atenolol (50 mg bid) treatment. This case demonstrates that a correct therapeutic strategy in the long-term management of patients with inoperable catecholamine-producing neuroendocrine tumors (pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas) can maintain arterial pressure in the normal range and reverse the cardiac damage induced by chronic cathecolamine excess.

Circulating ghrelin concentrations in the polycystic ovary syndrome

Ghrelin is a novel gastric peptide which has orexigenic and adipogenic properties. Circulating ghrelin concentrations are influenced by nutritional status and, probably, regulate food intake and body weight. Obesity is a common feature in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To investigate the relationship of circulating ghrelin concentrations to the hormonal and metabolic features of PCOS women, plasma ghrelin and several hormone concentrations were evaluated in thirty-three women with PCOS and in thirty-two healthy women matched for age and body mass index (BMI). Plasma ghrelin concentrations were similar between the PCOS (179 +/- 27, pmol/l +/- SEM) and the control (181 +/- 24, pmol/l +/- SEM) groups. In both groups, there was a significant (P < 0.001) inverse correlation between fasting ghrelin concentrations and BMI (PCOS: r = -0.45;

CONTROLS

r = -0.59). Multivariate regression analysis did not demonstrate any correlation (P = NS) between fasting ghrelin concentrations and the other hormone levels in the PCOS patients. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that in women with PCOS plasma ghrelin concentrations are not different from those of weight matched controls and are inversely correlated with BMI. There is no relationship between circulating ghrelin and the abnormal hormonal pattern of the PCOS syndrome.

Homocysteine levels and C677T polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

The aim of this study was to investigate the homocysteine (Hcy) levels and the C677T polymorphism of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), a crucial factor of the Hcy metabolism in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Seventy young women with PCOS and another 70 healthy women with low folate intake were enrolled. Cases and controls were matched for age, body mass index, and allele frequency. Hcy, vitamin B(12), and folate levels were measured, and a genetic analysis of 5,10-MTHFR at nucleotide 677 was performed in all subjects. No difference in mean Hcy levels was observed between PCOS women in comparison to the control group. Considering the different MTHFR polymorphism, no significant difference was found in serum Hcy levels between subjects with PCOS and controls showing CC (10.4 +/- 3.1 vs. 9.7 +/- 2.9 micromol/liter +/- SD) and CT genotypes (10.9 +/- 3.8 vs. 11.0 +/- 3.2 micromol/liter +/- SD). In subjects with a TT homozygous state, a significant (P < 0.05) difference was observed between PCOS and control women (11.5 +/- 3.9 vs. 22.0 +/- 7.8 micromol/liter +/- SD). In conclusion, our data show that in PCOS women, the serum Hcy levels are normal, and the C677T polymorphism of MTHFR does not influence the Hcy levels like in controls.

Subclinical Cushing's syndrome in patients with adrenal incidentaloma: clinical and biochemical features

Incidentally discovered adrenal masses are mostly benign, asymptomatic lesions, often arbitrarily considered as nonfunctioning tumors. Recent studies, however, have reported increasing evidence that subtle cortisol production and abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis are more frequent than previously thought. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical and hormonal features of patients with incidentally discovered adrenal adenomas, in relation to their clinical outcome. Fifty consecutive patients with incidentally detected adrenal adenomas, selected from a total of 65 cases of adrenal incidentalomas, were prospectively evaluated. All of them underwent abdominal computed tomography scan and hormonal assays of the HPA axis function: circadian rhythm of plasma cortisol and ACTH, urinary cortisol excretion, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androgens, corticotropin stimulation test and low-dose (2 mg) dexamethasone test. The patients were reevaluated at regular intervals (6, 12, and 24 months) for a median period of 38 months. Subtle hypercortisolism, defined as abnormal response to at least 2 standard tests of the HPA axis function in the absence of clinical signs of Cushing's syndrome (CS), was defined as subclinical CS. Mild-to-severe hypertension was found in 24 of 50 (48%) patients, type-2 diabetes in 12 of 50 (24%), and glucose intolerance in 6 of 50 (12%) patients. Moreover, 18 of 50 patients (36%) were diffusely obese (body mass index, determined as weight/height2, > 25), and 14 patients (28%) had serum lipid concentration abnormalities (cholesterol > or = 6.21 mmol/L, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol > or = 4.14 mmol/L and/or triglycerides > or = 1.8 mmol/L). Compared with a healthy population, bone mineral density Z-score, determined by the DEXA technique, tended to be slightly (but not significantly) lower in patients with adrenal adenoma (-0.41 SD). Endocrine data were compared with 107 sex- and age-matched controls, and patients with adenomas were found to have heterogeneous hormonal abnormalities. In particular, significantly higher serum cortisol values (P < 0.001), lower ACTH concentration (P < 0.05), and impaired cortisol suppression by dexamethasone (P < 0.001) were observed. Moreover, in patients with adenomas, cortisol, 17-OH progesterone, and androstenedione responses to corticotropin were significantly increased (P < 0.001, all), whereas dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels were significantly lower at baseline, with blunted response to corticotropin (P < 0.001, both). However, the criteria for subclinical CS were met by 12 of 50 (24%) patients. Of these, 6 (50%) were diffusely obese, 11 (91.6%) had mild-to-severe hypertension, 5 (41.6%) had type-2 diabetes mellitus, and 6 (50%) had abnormal serum lipids. The clinical and hormonal features improved in all patients treated by adrenalectomy, but seemed unchanged in all those who did not undergo surgery (follow-up, 9 to 73 months), except for one, who was previously found as having nonfunctioning adenoma and then revealed to have subclinical CS. In conclusion, an unexpectedly high prevalence of subtle autonomous cortisol secretion, associated with high occurrence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, elevated lipids, and diffuse obesity, was found in incidentally discovered adrenal adenomas. Although the pathological entity of a subclinical hypercortisolism state remained mostly stable in time during follow-up, hypertension, metabolic disorders, and hormonal abnormalities improved in all patients treated by adrenalectomy. These findings support the hypothesis that clinically silent hypercortisolism is probably not completely asymptomatic.

Percutaneous computed tomography-guided ethanol injection in aldosterone-producing adrenocortical adenoma

The feasibility, safety and effectiveness of percutaneous computed tomography-guided ethanol injection (PEI-CT) was investigated in a patient affected by aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA). A 42-year-old male patient with typical features of hyperaldosteronism presented a solitary left adrenal adenoma measuring 2 cm, with a normal contralateral gland, evidenced by both CT scan and adrenal [75Se-19]-nor-cholesterol scintigraphy. After normalization of potassium plasma levels, 4 ml of sterile 95% ethanol with 0.5 ml of 80% iothalamate sodium was injected. The procedure was completed in about 30 min. No severe pain or local complication was noted. Five hours after PEI, a fourfold and a twofold increase in aldosterone and cortisol plasma levels were observed, respectively. After 11 days on a normal sodium and potassium diet, normal potassium plasma levels and reduced aldosterone plasma levels were present, with reappearance of an aldosterone postural response. Plasma renin activity and aldosterone plasma levels normalized 1 month later, with reappearance also of a plasma renin activity postural response and maintenance of normal potassium plasma levels even on a high sodium and normal potassium diet. The patient has remained hypertensive, although lower antihypertensive drug dosages have been employed. After 17 months, normal biochemical, hormonal and morphological findings were still present. Thus, we suggest PEI-CT as a further alternative approach to surgery in the management of carefully selected patients with APA.