African American vs Caucasian race/ethnicity in adrenocortical carcinoma patients

In some primaries, African American race/ethnicity predisposes to higher stage and worse survival. We tested for differences in cancer-specific mortality (CSM) and other-cause mortality (OCM) in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) according to African American vs Caucasian race/ethnicity. We hypothesized that African Americans present with higher tumor stage and grade, do not receive the same treatment, and experience worse oncological outcomes than Caucasians. Within Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database, we identified 1016 ACC patients: 123 (12.1%) African Americans vs 893 (87.9%) Caucasians. Propensity score matching (PSM) (age, sex, marital status, grade, T, N, and M stages, and treatment type), Poisson-smoothed cumulative incidence plots, and competing risk regression (CRR) were used. Compared to Caucasians, African Americans were more frequently unmarried (56.9% vs 35.5%, P < 0.001). No clinically meaningful or statistically significant differences were observed for age, grade, T, N, and M stages, as well as treatment type (all P > 0.05). After PSM (1:4), 123 African Americans and 492 Caucasians remained and were included in CRR analysis. In multivariable CRR models, CSM and OCM rates were not different between the two race/ethnicities (hazard ratio: 0.84, P = 0.3). In African Americans, 5-year CSM rates were 31.2% and 75.3% in European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors (ENSAT) stages I-II and III-IV, respectively vs 32.9% and 75.4% in Caucasians. Overall 5-year OCM rates were 11.0% vs 10.1% in respectively African Americans and Caucasians. Unlike other primaries, in ACC, African American race/ethnicity is not associated with higher disease stage at initial diagnosis or worse survival.

The association of the type and number of D'Amico high-risk criteria with rates of pathologically non-organ-confined prostate cancer

Introduction

The aim of this study was to assess the association between the type and number of D'Amico high-risk criteria (DHRCs) with rates of pathologically non-organ-confined (NOC) prostate cancer in patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) and pelvic lymphadenectomy (PLND).

Material and methods

In the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2004-2016), we identified 12961 RP and PLDN patients with at least one DHRC. We relied on descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Of 12 961 patients, 6135 (47%) exclusively harboured biopsy Gleason score (GS) 8-10, 3526 (27%) had clinical stage ≥T2c, and 1234 (9.5%) had prostate-specific antigen (PSA) >20 ng/mL. Only 1886 (15%) harboured any combination of 2 DHRCs. Finally, all 3 DHRCs were present in 180 (1.4%) patients. NOC rates increased from 32% for clinical T stage ≥T2c to 49% for either GS 8-10 only or PSA >20 ng/mL only and to 66-68% for any combination of 2 DHRCs, and to 84% for respectively all 3 DHRCs, which resulted in a multivariable logistic regression OR of 1.00, 2.01 (95% CI 1.85-2.19; p <0.001), 4.16 (95% CI 3.69-4.68; p <0.001), and 10.83 (95% CI 7.35-16.52; p <0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

Our study indicates a stimulus-response effect according to the type and number of DHRCs. Hence, a formal risk-stratification within high-risk prostate cancer patients should be considered in clinical decision-making.

The association of type and number of high-risk criteria with cancer specific mortality in prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

To assess the association between of type and number of D'Amico high-risk criteria (DHRCs) with rates of cancer-specific mortality (CSM) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with external beam radiotherapy (RT).

METHODS

In the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2004-2016), we identified 34,908 RT patients with at least one DHRCs, namely prostate-specific antigen (PSA) >20 ng/dL (hrPSA), biopsy Grade Group (hrGG) 4-5, clinical T stage (hrcT) ≥T2c. Multivariable Cox regression models (CRM), as well as competing risks regression (CRR) model, which further adjust for other cause mortality, tested the association between DHRCs and 5-year CSM.

RESULTS

Of 34,908 patients, 14,777 (42%) exclusively harbored hrGG, 5641 (16%) hrPSA, 4390 (13%) had hrcT. Only 8238 (23.7%) harbored any combination of two DHRCs and 1862 (5.3%) had all three DHRCs. Five-year CSM rates ranged from 2.4% to 5.0% when any individual DHRC was present (hrcT, hrPSA, hrGG, in that order), versus 5.2% to 10.5% when two DHRCs were present (hrPSA+hrcT, hrcT+hrGG, hrPSA+hrGG, in that order) versus 14.4% when all three DHRCs were identified. In multivariable CRM hazard ratios relative to hrcT ranged from 1.07 to 1.76 for one DHRC, 2.20 to 3.83 for combinations of two DHRCs, and 5.11 for all three DHRCs. Multivariable CRR yielded to virtually the same results.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates a stimulus-response effect according to the type and number of DHRCs. This indicates potential for risk-stratification within HR PCa patients that could be applied in clinical decision making to increase or reduce treatment intensity.

Regional differences in total hospital costs for radical cystectomy in the United States

OBJECTIVES

To test for regional differences in total hospital costs (THC) across the United States in bladder cancer patients treated with open radical cystectomy (ORC) or robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC).

MATERIALS

We relied on the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2016-2019) and stratified RC patients according to census region (Midwest, Northeast, South, West). Primary statistical analyses consisted of THC-trend analyses and multivariable log-link linear regression models, after adjustment for hospital clustering (Generalized Estimating Equation function) and discharge disposition weighting. Finally, sensitivity analysis, relying on most favorable patient cohort, was performed.

RESULTS

Of 5280 eligible patients, 1441 (27%), 1031 (20%), 1854 (35%) and 954 (18%) underwent RC in the Midwest, Northeast, South and West, respectively. Median THC was 28,915$ and differed significantly between regions (Midwest: 28,105$; Northeast: 28,886$; South: 26,096$; West: 38,809$; p < 0.001). After stratification between ORC and RARC, highest THC was invariably recorded in the West: ORC 36,137$ vs 23,941-28,850$ and RARC 43,119$ vs 28,425-29,952$ (both p < 0.05). In multivariable log-link linear regression models, surgery in the West was independently associated with higher THC: ORC (Exponent beta [Exp[β]]: 1.39; 95%-CI: 1.32-1.47; p < 0.001) and RARC (Exp[β]: 1.46; 95%-CI: 1.38-1.55; p < 0.001). Results remained unchanged when analyses were refitted in most favorable patient subgroup.

CONCLUSIONS

Important regional differences in ORC and RARC THC distinguish the West from other United States regions. The THC discrepancy clearly requires closer examination to identify underlying processes that contribute to inflated costs in the West.

The effect of chemotherapy in sarcomatoid bladder cancer patients treated with radical cystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Data about the role of chemotherapy in sarcomatoid bladder cancer (SBC) are limited. We addressed the effect of chemotherapy in non-metastatic SBC patients treated with radical cystectomy (RC).

METHODS

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2001-2018), we identified 331 patients with non-metastatic muscle-invasive or higher SBC (T_2-4N_0-3M₀). Kaplan-Meier plots and Cox regression models tested cancer-specific mortality (CSM ). Sample size and power analyses tested for power limitations.

RESULTS

Of 331 SBC patients, 129 (38.9%) were exposed to chemotherapy. The rate of organ-confined stage (T₂N₀M₀) was 33% in both chemotherapy-exposed and chemotherapy-naive patients. In the overall cohort, median CSM-free survival was 84 months (interquartile range [IQR] 21-NA) vs. 26 months (IQR 17-84) in chemotherapy exposed vs. chemotherapy-naive patients, respectively. In multivariable Cox regression models, chemotherapy was associated with lower CSM, without reaching statistical significance (hazard ratio [HR ] 0.72, confidence interval [CI] 0.51-1.01, p=0.054). In subgroup analyses, chemotherapy exposure in organ-confined (n=110) vs. non-organ-confined (n=221) patients resulted in a HR of 0.51 (p=0.12) vs. 0.77 (p=0.17), respectively. Power analyses, based on two-sided α=0.05, revealed values of 52%, 14%, and 43% in the entire population, organ-confined, and nonorgan-confined subgroups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In non-metastatic SBC treated with RC, the association between chemotherapy and lower CSM is particularly strong in organ-confined stage. A substantially larger cohort would be required to confirm the statistical significance of the recorded protective effect of chemotherapy.

Effect of positive surgical margins at radical prostatectomy on cancer-specific mortality in high/very high-risk prostate cancer patients with Gleason Grade Group 4-5

BACKGROUND

The effect of positive surgical margins (PSM) on cancer specific mortality (CSM) in high/very high-risk (HR/VHR) prostate cancer (PCa) with aggressive Gleason Grade Group (GGG) is unknown. We tested PSM effect on CSM in this setting, in addition to testing of radiotherapy (RT) benefit in PSM patients.

METHODS

We relied on Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2010-2015), focusing on HR/VHR patients with exclusive GGG 4-5 at radical prostatectomy (RP). Kaplan-Meier plots and multivariable Cox regression models tested the relationship between PSM and CSM. Moreover, the effect of RT on CSM was explored in PSM patients.

RESULTS

Of 3383 HR/VHR patients, 15.1% (n = 511) exhibited PSM. Patients with PSM harbored higher rates of GGG 5 (60.1% vs. 50.9%, p < 0.001), pathologic tumor stage T3a (69.1% vs. 45.2%, p < 0.001) and lymph node involvement (14.1% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.001), relative to patients without PSM. PSM rates decreased over time (2010-2015) from 16.0% to 13.6%. Seven-year CSM-free survival rates were 91.6% versus 95.7% in patients with and without PSM, respectively. In multivariable Cox regression models, PSM was an independent predictor of CSM (hazard ratio = 1.6, p = 0.040) even after adjustment for age, prostate specific antigen, pathologic tumor stage and lymph node status. Finally, in PSM patients, RT delivery did not reduce CSM in either univariable or multivariable Cox regression models.

CONCLUSIONS

In HR/VHR PCa patients with exclusive GGG 4-5, PSM at RP adversely affect survival. Moreover, RT has no protective effect on CSM. In consequence, lowest possible PSM rates are crucial in such patients.

Collecting duct carcinoma: Epidemiology, clinical characteristics and survival

INTRODUCTION

Collecting duct carcinoma (CDC) is a rare renal malignancy. We relied on a large population-based cohort to address epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment of CDC patients. We also tested survival in the overall cohort, as well as in stage-specific fashion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Within Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (2004-2018) database, we identified 399 CDC patients. Based on Kaplan-Meier plots survival estimates, conditional survival rates were derived according to disease stage. Cox regression models tested for predictors of cancer specific mortality (CSM).

RESULTS

Overall, 273 (68.4%) patients were male, 236 (59.2%) had T3-4 stages, 148 (37.1%) had lymph node invasion, and 156 (39.1%) had distant metastases at initial diagnosis. Nephrectomy alone was commonest in stage I-II (n = 91/99, 92%) and III (n = 94/116, 81%). Combination of both nephrectomy and systemic therapy was commonest in stage IV (n = 62/172, 36%). In the overall cohort, median cancer specific survival was 18 months. Provided a disease-free interval of 24 months, five-year Kaplan-Meier estimated survival at diagnosis increased from 74.2 to 91.0% in stage I-II, from 31.1 to 65.3% in stage III, and from 6.3 to 34.1% in stage IV. In multivariable Cox regression models addressing CSM, systemic therapy (Hazard Ratio [HR]: 0.47, P = 0.020), nephrectomy (HR: 0.37, P < 0.001) and combination of both (HR: 0.28, P < 0.001) exhibited a strong protective effect.

CONCLUSION

Despite its highly aggressive phenotype and dismal survival, CDC is sensitive to nephrectomy and/or systemic therapy. Moreover, even for advanced stage, a more favorable prognosis can be achieved in patients, who benefit of disease-free interval after diagnosis and initial treatment.

Cancer-specific Mortality in T1a Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated with Local Tumor Destruction Versus Partial Nephrectomy

BACKGROUND

Large-scale analyses addressing cancer-specific mortality (CSM) in T1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients treated with local tumor destruction (LTD), relative to partial nephrectomy (PN), are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To compare CSM after LTD versus PN.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (2004-2018), we identified patients with clinical T1a stage RCC treated with LTD or PN.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSES

After 1:1 ratio propensity score matching (PSM) between patients treated with LTD versus PN, competing risks regression (CRR) models addressed CSM, after adjustment for other-cause mortality (OCM) and other covariates (age, tumor size, tumor grade, and histological subtype).

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Relative to the 35 984 PN patients, 5936 LTD patients were older and more frequently harbored unknown RCC histological subtype or unknown grade. After 1:1 PSM that resulted in 5352 LTD versus 5352 PN patients, the 10-yr CSM rate was 8.7% versus 5.5%. In multivariable CRR models, LTD was associated with higher CSM, relative to PN (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.58, p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed invariably higher CSM after LTD versus PN in patients with tumor size ≤3 cm (10-yr CSM 7.2% vs 5.3%, multivariable HR: 1.47, p < 0.001) and in patients with tumor size 3.1-4 cm (10-yr CSM 11.4% vs 6.1%, multivariable HR: 1.72, p < 0.001). Lack of information regarding earlier cancer controls, retreatment, tumor location within the kidney, and type of surgery represented limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

In T1a RCC patients, LTD is invariably associated with higher CSM relative to PN, even after adjustment for OCM and all available patient and tumor characteristics, and regardless of tumor size considerations. However, the magnitude of CSM disadvantage was more pronounced in LTD patients with tumor size 3.1-4 cm than in those with tumor size ≤3 cm.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In patients with small renal masses, we observed higher cancer-specific death rates for local tumor destruction (LTD) than for partial nephrectomy. The LTD disadvantage was more pronounced for patients with tumor size 3.1-4 cm, but was also present in those with tumor size ≤3 cm.

Racial/ethnic disparities in the distribution and effect of type and number of high-risk criteria on mortality in prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

Objective

To assess differences in the distribution of type and number of D'Amico high-risk criteria (DHRCs) according to race/ethnicity (R/E) and their effect on cancer-specific mortality (CSM) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with external beam radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

In the SEER database (2004-2016), we identified 31,002 PCa patients treated with RT with at least one DHRCs, namely PSA >20 ng/dL, biopsy Gleason Grade Group 4-5, and clinical T stage ≥T2c. Competing risks regression (CRR) model tested the association between DHRCs and 5-year CSM in all R/E subgroups.

Results

Of 31,002 patients, 20,894 (67%) were Caucasian, 5256 (17%) were African American, 2868 (9.3%) were Hispanic-Latino, and 1984 (6.4%) were Asian. The distributions of individual DHRCs and combinations of two DHRCs differed according to R/E, but not for the combination of three DHRCs. The effect related to the presence of a single DHRC, and combinations of two or three DHRCs on absolute CSM rates was lowest in Asians (1.2-6.8%), followed by in African Americans (2.3-12.2%) and Caucasians (2.3-12.1%), and highest in Hispanic/Latinos (1.7-13.8%). However, the opposite effect was observed in CRR, where hazard ratios were highest in Asians vs. other R/Es: Asians 1.00-2.59 vs. others 0.5-1.83 for one DHRC, Asians 3.4-4.75 vs. others 0.66-3.66 for two DHRCs, and Asians 7.22 vs. others 3.03-4.99 for all three DHRCs.

Conclusions

R/E affects the proportions of DHRCs. Moreover, within the four examined R/E groups, the effect of DHRCs on absolute and relative CSM metrics also differed. Therefore, R/E-specific considerations may be warranted in high-risk PCa patients treated with RT.

Contemporary vs historical survival rates in metastatic clear cell renal carcinoma according to race/ethnicity

PURPOSE

Systemic therapies (ST) improved contemporary survival rates, relative to historical in clear cell metastatic renal carcinoma (ccmRCC) patients. The magnitude of this improvement is unknown according to race/ethnicity.

METHODS

Within the SEER registry (2000-2017), ccmRCC patients were stratified according to race/ethnicity (Caucasian, Hispanic, African American, Asian) and historical (2000-2009) vs contemporary (2010-2017) years of diagnosis. Competing risks regression (CRR) with adjustment for other-cause mortality and Poisson smoothed cumulative incidence plots addressed cancer-specific mortality (CSM).

RESULTS

Of 10,141 mRCC patients, 4316 (43%) vs 5825 (57%) were diagnosed in historical vs contemporary era. Of 4316 historical patients, 3203 (74%) vs 593 (14%) vs 293 (7%) vs 227 (5%) were Caucasian, Hispanic, African American and Asian. Of 5825 contemporary patients, 4124 (71%) vs 977 (17%) vs 362 (6%) vs 362 (6%) were Caucasian, Hispanic, African American and Asian. Between 2000 and 2017, ST rates ranged from 12 to 57% in Caucasians, 2 to 57% in Hispanics, 33 to 50% in African Americans, 17 to 70% in Asians and universally increased toward a plateau in 2010. In Caucasians, CSM decreased from 80 to 74% vs 79 to 74% in Hispanics vs 79 to 77% in African Americans, but not in Asians (67-73%). Nonetheless, these rates translated into independent predictor status of contemporary years of diagnosis in all race/ethnicity groups: CSM hazard ratios of 0.75, 0.75, 0.73 and 0.80 in, respectively, Caucasian, Hispanic, African American and Asian.

CONCLUSIONS

In all race/ethnicity groups, contemporary ST rates increased and improved CSM rates have also been recorded.

Outcomes of robotic-assisted versus open radical cystectomy in a large-scale, contemporary cohort of bladder cancer patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To test for differences in perioperative outcomes and total hospital costs (THC) in nonmetastatic bladder cancer patients undergoing open (ORC) versus robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC).

METHODS

We relied on the National Inpatient Sample database (2016-2019). Statistics consisted of trend analyses, multivariable logistic, Poisson, and linear regression models.

RESULTS

Of 5280 patients, 1876 (36%) versus 3200 (60%) underwent RARC versus ORC. RARC increased from 32% to 41% (estimated annual percentage change [EAPC]: + 8.6%; p = 0.02). Rates of transfusion (8% vs. 16%), intraoperative (2% vs. 3%), wound (6% vs. 10%), and pulmonary (6% vs. 10%) complications were lower in RARC patients (all p < 0.05). Moreover, median length of stay (LOS) was shorter in RARC (6 vs. 7days; p < 0.001). Conversely, median THC (31,486 vs. 27,162$; p < 0.001) were higher in RARC. Multivariable logistic regression-derived odds ratios addressing transfusion (0.49), intraoperative (0.53), wound (0.68), and pulmonary (0.71) complications favored RARC (all p < 0.01). In multivariable Poisson and linear regression models, RARC was associated with shorter LOS (Rate ratio:0.86; p < 0.001), yet higher THC (Coef.:5,859$; p < 0.001). RARC in-hospital mortality was lower (1% vs. 2%; p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

RARC complications, LOS, and mortality appear more favorable than ORC, but result in higher THC. The favorable RARC profile contributes to its increasing popularity throughout the United States.

Rates of metastatic prostate cancer in newly diagnosed patients: Numbers needed to image according to risk level

BACKGROUND

The numbers needed to image to identify pelvic lymph node and/or distant metastases in newly diagnosed prostate cancer (PCa) patients according to risk level are unknown.

METHODS

Relying on Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (2010-2016), we tabulated rates and proportions of patients with (a) lymph node or (b) distant metastases according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk level and calculated the number needed to image (NNI) for both endpoints. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of 145,939 newly diagnosed PCa patients assessable for analyses of pelvic lymph node metastases (cN1), 4559 (3.1%) harbored cN1 stage: 13 (0.02%), 18 (0.08%), 63 (0.3%), 512 (2.8%), and 3954 (14.9%) in low, intermediate favorable, intermediate unfavorable, high, and very high-risk levels. These resulted in NNI of 4619, 1182, 319, 35, and 7, respectively. Of 181,109 newly diagnosed PCa patients assessable for analyses of distant metastases (M1_a-c ), 8920 (4.9%) harbored M1_a-c stage: 50 (0.07%), 45 (0.1%), 161 (0.5%), 1290 (5.1%), and 7374 (22.0%) in low, intermediate favorable, intermediate unfavorable, high, and very high-risk. These resulted in NNI of 1347, 602, 174, 20, and 5, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations perfectly validated the NCCN recommendations for imaging in newly diagnosed high and very high-risk PCa patients. However, in unfavorable intermediate-risk PCa patients, in whom bone and soft tissue imaging is recommended, the NNI might be somewhat elevated to support routine imaging in clinical practice.

Survival trends in chemotherapy exposed metastatic bladder cancer patients and chemotherapy effect across different age, sex, and race/ethnicity

PURPOSE

To test for survival differences in metastatic urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder (mUCUB) patients, according to years of diagnosis, age, sex, and race/ethnicity over time and for the effect of chemotherapy on overall mortality (OM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (2000-2016), we identified 6860 mUCUB patients. Of those, 3,249 were exposed to chemotherapy. Kaplan-Meier plots and Cox regression models focused on OM. First, we tested the effect of years of diagnosis (historical [2000-2005] vs. intermediate [2006-2011] vs. contemporary [2012-2016]) in chemotherapy exposed mUCUB patients. Second, we tested the effect of chemotherapy in all mUCUB patients.

RESULTS

In chemotherapy exposed mUCUB patients according to historical vs. intermediate vs. contemporary years, median overall survival was 11 vs. 13 vs. 14 months respectively, which translated into hazard ratios (HR) of 0.86 (P = 0.005) and 0.75 (P < 0.001) in intermediate and contemporary vs. historical, respectively. Subgroup analyses in <70 years old, males and Caucasians were in agreement regarding statistically significant differences between historical vs. intermediate vs. contemporary, respectively. In multivariable Cox regression models fitted in the entire mUCUB cohort, chemotherapy exposure reduced OM (HR: 0.46; P < 0.001). Virtually the same results were recorded in age, sex, and race/ethnicity subgroups analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Contemporary chemotherapy exposed mUCUB patients exhibited better survival than their historical and intermediate counterparts. Chemotherapy reduced mortality by half, across all patient types.

Mortality according to treatment in metastatic collecting duct renal cell carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Controlled contemporary analyses of mortality in metastatic collecting duct renal cell carcinoma (mcdRCC) are unavailable. We addressed this knowledge gap and tested rates of treatment and associated mortality in patients with mcdRCC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Within Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2004-2018), we identified 155 mcdRCC patients. Kaplan-Meier plots and Cox proportional hazards regression models tested the effect of treatment (cytoreductive nephrectomy [CN] alone vs. systemic therapy [ST] alone vs. combination of both CN + ST) on overall mortality (OM).

RESULTS

In the overall cohort (n = 155), 57 patients (37%) were treated with combination of both CN + ST, 46 (30%) underwent CN alone, 28 (18%) received ST alone, and 24 (15%) had none/unknown treatment. According to age categories (≤ 59 vs. 60-69 vs. ≥ 70 years), rates of combination of both CN + ST were 45% vs. 45% vs. 14%, respectively. CN alone was the most frequent type of treatment in patients aged ≥ 70 (50%). Median overall survival was 4.0 months for CN alone vs. 5.5 months for ST alone vs. 9.0 months for combination of both CN+ST. In multivariable Cox regression models, where CN alone was the referent, the use of ST alone and combination of both CN + ST were respectively associated with a HR of 0.74 (P = .3) and 0.43 (P < .001), after adjustment for all covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

In mcdRCC patients, concomitant use of CN and ST results in lowest mortality, followed by ST alone, and CN alone. In consequence combination of both CN + ST should be recommended whenever applicable.

Grade and stage misclassification in intermediate unfavorable-risk prostate cancer radiotherapy candidates

BACKGROUND

We tested for upgrading (Gleason grade group [GGG] ≥ 4) and/or upstaging to non-organ-confined stage ([NOC] ≥ pT3/pN1) in intermediate unfavorable-risk (IU) prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with radical prostatectomy, since both change the considerations for dose and/or type of radiotherapy (RT) and duration of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

METHODS

We relied on Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (2010-2015). Proportions of (a) upgrading, (b) upstaging, or (c) upgrading and/or upstaging were tabulated and tested in multivariable logistic regression models.

RESULTS

We identified 7269 IU PCa patients. Upgrading was recorded in 479 (6.6%) and upstaging in 2398 (33.0%), for a total of 2616 (36.0%) upgraded and/or upstaged patients, who no longer fulfilled the IU grade and stage definition. Prostate-specific antigen, clinical stage, biopsy GGG, and percentage of positive cores, neither individually nor in multivariable logistic regression models, discriminated between upgraded and/or upstaged patients versus others.

CONCLUSIONS

IU PCa patients showed very high (36%) upgrading and/or upstaging proportion. Interestingly, the overwhelming majority of those were upstaged to NOC. Conversely, very few were upgraded to GGG ≥ 4. In consequence, more than one-third of IU PCa patients treated with RT may be exposed to suboptimal dose and/or type of RT and to insufficient duration of ADT, since their true grade and stage corresponded to high-risk PCa definition, instead of IU PCa. Data about magnetic resonance imaging were not available but may potentially help with better stage discrimination.

Contemporary seminal vesicle invasion rates in NCCN high-risk prostate cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Contemporary seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) rates in National Cancer Comprehensive Network (NCCN) high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) patients are not well known but essential for treatment planning. We examined SVI rates according to individual patient characteristics for purpose of treatment planning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Within Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (2010-2015), 4975 NCCN high-risk patients were identified. In the development cohort (SEER geographic region of residence: South, North-East, Mid-West, n = 2456), we fitted a multivariable logistic regression model predicting SVI. Its accuracy, calibration, and decision curve analyses (DCAs) were then tested versus previous models within the external validation cohort (SEER geographic region of residence: West, n = 2519).

RESULTS

Out of 4975 patients, 28% had SVI. SVI rate ranged from 8% to 89% according to clinical T stage, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), biopsy Gleason Grade Group and percentage of positive biopsy cores. In the development cohort, these variables were independent predictors of SVI. In the external validation cohort, the current model achieved 77.6% accuracy vs 73.7% for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre (MSKCC) vs 68.6% for Gallina et al. Calibration was better than for the two alternatives: departures from ideal predictions were 6.0% for the current model vs 9.8% for MSKCC vs 38.5% for Gallina et al. In DCAs, the current model outperformed both alternatives. Finally, different nomogram cutoffs allowed to discriminate between low versus high SVI risk patients.

CONCLUSIONS

More than a quarter of NCCN high-risk PCa patients harbored SVI. Since SVI positivity rate varies from 8% to 89%, the currently developed model offers a valuable approach to distinguish between low and high SVI risk patients.

Non-organ confined stage and upgrading rates in exclusive PSA high-risk prostate cancer patients

BACKGROUND

The pathological stage of prostate cancer with high-risk prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, but otherwise favorable and/or intermediate risk characteristics (clinical T-stage, Gleason Grade group at biopsy [B-GGG]) is unknown. We hypothesized that a considerable proportion of such patients will exhibit clinically meaningful GGG upgrading or non-organ confined (NOC) stage at radical prostatectomy (RP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2010-2015) we identified RP-patients with cT1c-stage and B-GGG1, B-GGG2, or B-GGG3 and PSA 20-50 ng/ml. Rates of GGG4 or GGG5 and/or rates of NOC stage (≥ pT3 and/or pN1) were analyzed. Subsequently, separate univariable and multivariable logistic regression models tested for predictors of NOC stage and upgrading at RP.

RESULTS

Of 486 assessable patients, 134 (28%) exhibited B-GGG1, 209 (43%) B-GGG2, and 143 (29%) B-GGG3, respectively. The overall upgrading and NOC rates were 11% and 51% for a combined rate of upgrading and/or NOC stage of 53%. In multivariable logistic regression models predicting upgrading, only B-GGG3 was an independent predictor (odds ratio [OR]: 5.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.21-14.19; p < 0.001). Conversely, 33%-66% (OR: 2.36; 95% CI: 1.42-3.95; p = 0.001) and >66% of positive biopsy cores (OR: 4.85; 95% CI: 2.84-8.42; p < 0.001), as well as B-GGG2 and B-GGG3 were independent predictors for NOC stage (all p ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In cT1c-stage patients with high-risk PSA baseline, but low- to intermediate risk B-GGG, the rate of upgrading to GGG4 or GGG5 is low (11%). However, NOC stage is found in the majority (51%) and can be independently predicted with percentage of positive cores at biopsy and B-GGG.

Effect of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy on Complications, in-Hospital Mortality, Length of Stay and Total Hospital Costs in Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy

Background: To test for differences in complication rates, in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS) and total hospital costs (THCs) in patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) prior to radical cystectomy (RC). Methods: Within the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2016−2019), we identified RC-treated, non-metastatic, lymph-node negative bladder cancer patients, stratified by NAC status. Trend analyses, multivariable logistic, multivariable Poisson and multivariable linear regression models were used. Results: We identified 4347 RC-treated bladder cancer patients. Of those, 805 (19%) received NAC prior to RC. Overall, complications rates did not differ (65 vs. 66%; p = 0.7). However, NAC patients harbored lower rates of surgical site (6 vs. 9%), cardiac (13 vs. 19%) and genitourinary (5.5 vs. 9.7%) complications. In-hospital mortality (<1.7 vs. 1.8%) and LOS (6 vs. 7 days) was lower in NAC patients (all p < 0.05). Moreover, NAC was an independent predictor of shorter LOS in multivariable Poisson regression models (Risk ratio: 0.86; p < 0.001) and an independent predictor for higher THCs in multivariable linear regression models (Odds ratio: 1474$; p = 0.02). Conclusion: NAC was not associated with higher complication rates and in-hospital mortality. Contrary, NAC was associated with shorter LOS, yet moderately higher THCs. The current analysis suggests no detriment from NAC in the context of RC.

Anatomical Fundamentals and Current Surgical Knowledge of Prostate Anatomy Related to Functional and Oncological Outcomes for Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Context

Meticulous knowledge about the anatomy of the prostate and surrounding tissue represents a crucial and mandatory requirement during radical prostatectomy for reliable oncological and excellent replicable, functional outcomes. Since its introduction two decades ago, robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) has evolved to become the predominant surgical approach in many industrialized countries.

Objective

To provide and highlight currently available literature regarding prostate anatomy and to help in improving oncological and functional outcomes in RALP.

Methods/Evidence Acquiring

PubMed database was searched using the following keywords: “robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy,” “anatomy,” “neurovascular bundle,” “nerve,” “periprostatic fascia,” “pelvis,” “sphincter,” “urethra,” “urinary incontinence,” and “erectile dysfunction.” Relevant articles and book chapters were critically reviewed and if eligible, they were included in this review.

Results

New evidence in regards to prostatic anatomy and surgical approaches in RALP has been reported in recent years. Besides detailed anatomical studies investigating the meticulous structure of the fascial structures surrounding the prostate and neurovascular bundle preservation, debate about the optimal RALP approach is still ongoing, inspired by recent publications presenting promising functional outcomes following modifications in surgical approaches.

Conclusions

This review provides a detailed overview of the current knowledge of prostate anatomy, its surrounding tissue, and its influence on key surgical step development for RALP.

Efficacy of chemotherapy on overall survival in metastatic sarcomatoid bladder cancer patients

Introduction

The role of chemotherapy in metastatic sarcomatoid bladder cancer (mSBC) is unknown. The current work aimed to test the effect of chemotherapy on overall survival (OS) in mSBC patients.

Material and methods

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database (2001-2018), we identified 110 mSBC patients of all T and N stages (T_anyN_anyM₁). Kaplan-Meier plots and Cox regression models were used. Covariates consisted of type of surgical treatment (no treatment vs radical cystectomy vs other), and patient age. The endpoint of interest was OS.

Results

In 110 mSBC patients, 46 (41.8%) were exposed to chemotherapy vs 64 (58.2%) who were chemotherapy naive. Chemotherapy exposed patients were younger (median age 66 vs 70, p = 0.005). Median OS was 8 months in chemotherapy exposed vs 2 months in chemotherapy naive patients. In univariable Cox regression models, chemotherapy exposure was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.58 (p = 0.007).In multivariable Cox regression models adjusted for case mix, chemotherapy exposure was associated with a HR of 0.60 (p = 0.016).

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of chemotherapy effect on OS in mSBC patients. OS is extremely poor. Nonetheless, it is improved in a statistically significant and clinically meaningful fashion, when chemotherapy is administered.

Up- and downgrading in single intermediate-risk positive biopsy core prostate cancer

Background

Up- and/or downgrading rates in single intermediate-risk positive biopsy core are unknown.

Methods

We identified single intermediate-risk (Gleason grade group (GGG) 2/GGG3) positive biopsy core prostate cancer patients (≤ cT2c and PSA ≤ 20 ng/mL) within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (2010–2015). Subsequently, separate uni- and multivariable logistic regression models tested for independent predictors of up- and downgrading.

Results

Of 1,328 assessable patients with single core positive intermediate-risk prostate cancer at biopsy, 972 (73%) harbored GGG2 versus 356 (27%) harbored GGG3. Median PSA (5.5 vs 5.7; p = 0.3), median age (62 vs 63 years; p = 0.07) and cT1-stage (77 vs 75%; p = 0.3) did not differ between GGG2 and GGG3 patients. Of individuals with single GGG2 positive biopsy core, 191 (20%) showed downgrading to GGG1 versus 35 (4%) upgrading to GGG4 or GGG5 at RP. Of individuals with single GGG3 positive biopsy core, 36 (10%) showed downgrading to GGG1 versus 42 (12%) significant upgrading to GGG4 or GGG5 at RP. In multivariable logistic regression models, elevated PSA (10–20 ng/mL) was an independent predictor of upgrading to GGG4/GGG5 in single GGG3 positive biopsy core patients (OR:2.89; 95%-CI: 1.31–6.11; p = 0.007).

Conclusion

In single GGG2 positive biopsy core patients, downgrading was four times more often recorded compared to upgrading. Conversely, in single GGG3 positive biopsy core patients, up- and downgrading rates were comparable and should be expected in one out of ten patients.