Surgical management of advanced sinonasal cancer: a 10-year mono-institutional experience

Objective

Endoscopic endonasal surgery is effective in the treatment of sinonasal cancers. However, in cases of well-differentiated locally advanced neoplasms as well as recurrences, the most appropriate treatment is debated. The purpose of this study is to report a mono-institutional experience on craniofacial surgery performed in a tertiary-care referral centre.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 90 patients treated with transcranial and/or transfacial resection for sinonasal cancer between 2010 and 2020. Outcome measures included overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), disease-free survival (DFS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Results

The 5-year OS, DSS and DFS were 48.2%, 60.6% and 28.7%, respectively. Factors correlated with prognosis were pT-classification (p = 0.002), histotype (p = 0.012) and dural involvement (p = 0.004). Independent prognostic factors were orbital apex infiltration (p = 0.03), age (p = 0.002) and adjuvant therapy (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

When endoscopic endonasal surgery is contraindicated and chemoradiotherapy is not appropriate, craniofacial and transfacial approaches still represent an option to consider, despite the non-negligible morbidity.

International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal neoplasms, whether benign and malignant, pose a significant challenge to clinicians and represent a model area for multidisciplinary collaboration in order to optimize patient care. The International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors (ICSNT) aims to summarize the best available evidence and presents 48 thematic and histopathology-based topics spanning the field.

METHODS

In accordance with prior International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology documents, ICSNT assigned each topic as an Evidence-Based Review with Recommendations, Evidence-Based Review, and Literature Review based on the level of evidence. An international group of multidisciplinary author teams were assembled for the topic reviews using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses format, and completed sections underwent a thorough and iterative consensus-building process. The final document underwent rigorous synthesis and review prior to publication.

RESULTS

The ICSNT document consists of four major sections: general principles, benign neoplasms and lesions, malignant neoplasms, and quality of life and surveillance. It covers 48 conceptual and/or histopathology-based topics relevant to sinonasal neoplasms and masses. Topics with a high level of evidence provided specific recommendations, while other areas summarized the current state of evidence. A final section highlights research opportunities and future directions, contributing to advancing knowledge and community intervention.

CONCLUSION

As an embodiment of the multidisciplinary and collaborative model of care in sinonasal neoplasms and masses, ICSNT was designed as a comprehensive, international, and multidisciplinary collaborative endeavor. Its primary objective is to summarize the existing evidence in the field of sinonasal neoplasms and masses.

Ectopic Primary Olfactory Neuroblastoma: Case Series and Literature Review

OBJECTIVE

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare malignant tumor arising in the upper nasal cleft. Rarely, ONB may originate in ectopic sites and the impact of this on prognosis and treatment strategies continues to be debated.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was undertaken of patients with ectopic ONB treated between 2000 and 2020 in a tertiary-care referral center for skull base tumors. Three patients were included in this analysis: a 37-year-old woman with ONB arising from the bulla ethmoidalis; a 28-year-old man with inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone caused by a maxillary sinus ONB; and a 41-year-old man with lacrimal sac ONB. Preoperative workup, surgical approach, adjuvant treatments and postoperative surveillance were analyzed. Relevant literature published between 2000 and January 2021 was fully reviewed to investigate oncologic outcomes and delineate the standard of care for such rare tumors.

RESULTS

All patients were treated via endoscopic endonasal resection with radical intent, followed by adjuvant treatments when required. No recurrences of disease were observed after a mean follow-up time of 32 months (range, 12-60 months). Data emerging from the literature suggest that a multidisciplinary treatment approach, including free-margins surgical resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy or radiochemotherapy, is recommended. Olfactory bulb and dura preservation should be attempted whenever feasible.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic endonasal surgery should be preferred, when possible, to achieve complete excision to minimize patients' morbidity. The ectopic site of origin affects prognosis and should be considered when selecting the appropriate multimodal treatment strategy.

How Has Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy Changed in Italy between 2004 and 2011? An Analysis of the National Patterns-Of-Practice (POP) Database by the Uro-Oncology Study Group of the Italian Society of Radiotherapy and Clinical Oncology (AIRO)

Simple Summary

This is a safety and efficacy analysis from a very large dataset of patients affected by localized prostate cancer having received radiotherapy with or without concomitant androgen deprivation therapy in twelve academic and non-academic Italian Institutions. The aim of this retrospective "real life" study was to provide additional data on clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, radiation therapy management and toxicity as collected within the framework of POP III. Though the usual limitations for a retrospective analysis apply, it nevertheless may expand the current knowledge in this area showing the progress of radiation therapy techniques and clinical outcomes in the period between 2004 and 2011 after a significant period of follow up.

Abstract

Background and purpose: Two previous “Patterns Of Practice” surveys (POP I and POP II), including more than 4000 patients affected by prostate cancer treated with radical external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) between 1980 and 2003, established a “benchmark” Italian data source for prostate cancer radiotherapy. This report (POP III) updates the previous studies. Methods: Data on clinical management and outcome of 2525 prostate cancer patients treated by EBRT from 2004 to 2011 were collected and compared with POP II and, when feasible, also with POP I. This report provides data on clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, radiation therapy management, and toxicity as collected within the framework of POP III. Results: More than 50% of POP III patients were classified as low or intermediate risk using D’Amico risk categories as in POP II; 46% were classified as ISUP grade group 1. CT scan, bone scan, and endorectal ultrasound were less frequently prescribed. Dose-escalated radiotherapy (RT), intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image guided radiotherapy (IGRT), and hypofractionated RT were more frequently offered during the study period. Treatment was commonly well tolerated. Acute toxicity improved compared to the previous series; late toxicity was influenced by prescribed dose and treatment technique. Five-year overall survival, biochemical relapse free survival (BRFS), and disease specific survival were similar to those of the previous series (POP II). BRFS was better in intermediate- and high-risk patients treated with ≥ 76 Gy. Conclusions: This report highlights the improvements in radiotherapy planning and dose delivery among Italian Centers in the 2004–2011 period. Dose-escalated treatments resulted in better biochemical control with a reduction in acute toxicity and higher but acceptable late toxicity, as not yet comprehensively associated with IMRT/IGRT. CTV-PTV margins >8 mm were associated with increased toxicity, again suggesting that IGRT—allowing for tighter margins—would reduce toxicity for dose escalated RT. These conclusions confirm the data obtained from randomized controlled studies.

Almost one year of COVID-19 pandemic: how radiotherapy centers have counteracted its impact on cancer treatment in Lombardy, Italy. CODRAL/AIRO-L study

Lombardy has represented the Italian and European epicenter of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Although most clinical efforts within hospitals were diverted towards the care of virally infected patients, therapies for patients with cancer, including radiotherapy (RT), have continued. During both the first and second pandemic waves, several national and regional organizations provided Italian and Lombardian RT departments with detailed guidelines aimed at ensuring safe treatments during the pandemic. The spread of infection among patients and personnel was limited by adopting strict measures, including triage procedures, interpersonal distance, and adequate implementation of personal protective equipment (PPE). Screening procedures addressed to both the healthcare workforce and patients, such as periodic nasopharyngeal swabs, have allowed the early identification of asymptomatic or pauci-symptomatic COVID-19 cases, thus reducing the spread of the infection. Prevention of infection was deemed of paramount importance to protect both patients and personnel and to ensure the availability of a minimum number of staff members to maintain clinical activity. The choice of treating COVID-19-positive patients has represented a matter of debate, and the risk of oncologic progression has been weighted against the risk of infection of personnel and other patients. Such risk was minimized by creating dedicated paths, reserving time slots, applying intensified cleaning procedures, and supplying personnel and staff with appropriate PPE. Remote working of research staff, medical physicists, and, in some cases, radiation oncologists has prevented overcrowding of shared spaces, reducing infection spread.

OLIGO-AIRO: a national survey on the role of radiation oncologist in the management of OLIGO-metastatic patients on the behalf of AIRO

In the last years, several evidences demonstrated the role of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in the oligometastatic disease and the possibility to increase survival in selected patients. In 2020 the study group "biology and treatment of the oligometastatic disease" of the Italian Association of Radiotherapy and Clinical Oncology (AIRO) conducted a survey evaluating the attitude of physicians in treating the oligometastatic disease and the definition of it. An electronic questionnaire was administered online to the society members. 105 questionnaires were returned. 78% responders considered as oligometastatic a disease with ≤ 5 metastases. The majority of the responders (77%) treated > 50 patients in the last year, and 89% responders agreed in considering every oligometastatic tumor susceptible to local treatments. Regarding the clinical management of the oligometastatic disease, the majority of the responders (66%) suggested an interdisciplinary discussion. When choosing a treatment option for fit patients with a single oligometastatic focus, 52% of the responders agreed in proposing only SBRT. In the case of unfit patients with a single oligometastatic lesion the agreement was in favor of the SBRT alone (89%). In the oligoprogressive setting, 41% responders opted to continue the current systemic treatment and to add SBRT, while in the case of oligoresidual disease, 70% responders was in favor of adding SBRT and continuing the current systemic treatment. In conclusions, the survey illustrated the current agreement and prescribing attitude for oligometastatic patients in Italy. The non-homogenous agreement in some clinical scenarios suggest the need of more robust evidence.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Nasal Vestibule and Pyramid: Outcomes and Reconstructive Strategies

OBJECTIVES

Squamous cell carcinoma of nasal vestibule and pyramid is rare, thus classification, treatment protocol, and indications for elective neck treatment are still controversial. Nasal reconstruction is challenging, as well, and prosthesis is still used.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients surgically treated from 2010 to 2018 in a single Institution. Advanced tumors were further treated with adjuvant irradiation. Reconstruction strategy included grafts, locoregional and free flaps, and was customized on layers removed.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients were enrolled. The 5-year overall survival and disease-free survival were 81.9% ± 7.45% and 61.9% ± 9.09%, respectively. Wang's classification, site of origin, extent of surgery and margins status significantly correlated with prognosis and recurrence rate. Regional recurrences occurred in patients affected by advanced tumors who did not receive any form of elective neck treatment.

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary management and a proper reconstructive algorithm are recommended. Adjuvant irradiation and elective neck treatment should be advocated for advanced stage high-risk patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 131:E1198-E1208, 2021.

Altered Fractionation Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer: Clinical Issues and Pitfalls of “Evidence-Based Medicine”

The authors present a critical appraisal of the biological bases of altered fractionation and a brief overview of published randomized trials with conventional fractionation as the control arm, reviews and meta-analysis on altered fractionation radiotherapy in head and neck cancer. The major controversial issues emerging from these studies are reviewed and the limiting factors which so far have prevented the widespread use of altered fractionation regimens in current clinical practice are analyzed. Future perspectives regarding predictive biological assays for patient selection and the integration of altered fractionation regimens with radiochemotherapy protocols, biomodulators and novel radiotherapy techniques are also reviewed and summarized.

Multidisciplinary treatment algorithm for the management of sinonasal cancers with orbital invasion: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal cancers frequently involve the orbit with resulting controversies on whether to remove or preserve the orbital contents.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with primary sinonasal cancer involving the orbit, treated according to a multidisciplinary protocol tailored to tumor histology and extent of orbital invasion in two tertiary care referral centers over a 20-year period.

RESULTS

The oncological and functional outcomes of 163 patients were analyzed. The degree of orbital involvement significantly affected both overall (P < .0001) and disease-free (P < .0001) survival. Orbital apex invasion was an independent negative prognostic factor (5-year overall survival, 14.6% ± 7.5%), with dismal prognosis regardless of the treatment adopted. An appropriate use of induction chemotherapy and endoscopic-assisted surgery allowed for orbital preservation in 76.6% of cases; 96% of patients treated using an orbit-sparing approach maintained a functional eye after treatment.

CONCLUSION

The multimodal treatment algorithm herein proposed was able to maximize orbital preservation rates with acceptable oncological and functional outcomes.

A functional gene expression analysis in epithelial sinonasal cancer: Biology and clinical relevance behind three histological subtypes

Epithelial sinonasal cancers (SNCs) are rare diseases with overlapping morphological features and a dismal prognosis. We aimed to investigate the expression differences among the histological subtypes for discerning their molecular characteristics. We selected 47 SNCs: (i) 21 nonkeratinizing squamous cell carcinomas (NKSCCs), (ii) 13 sinonasal neuroendocrine cancers (SNECs), and (iii) 13 sinonasal undifferentiated cancers (SNUCs). Gene expression profiling was performed by DASL (cDNA-mediated annealing, selection, extension, and ligation) microarray analysis with internal validation by quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR). Relevant molecular patterns were uncovered by sparse partial-least squares discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA), microenvironment cell type (xCell), CIBERSORT, and gene set enrichment (GSEA) analyses. The first two sPLS-DA components stratified samples by histological subtypes. xCell highlighted increased expression of immune components (CD8⁺ effector memory cells, in SNUC) and "other cells": keratinocytes and neurons in NKSCC and SNEC, respectively. Pathway enrichment was observed in NKSCC (six gene sets, proliferation related), SNEC (one gene set, pancreatic β-cells), and SNUC (twenty gene sets, some of them immune-system related). Major neuroendocrine involvement was observed in all the SNEC samples. Our high-throughput analysis revealed a good diagnostic ability to differentiate NKSCC, SNEC, and SNUC, but indicated that the neuroendocrine pathway, typical and pathognomonic of SNEC is also present at lower expression levels in the other two histological subtypes. The different and specific profiles may be exploited for elucidating their biology and could help to identify prognostic and therapeutic opportunities.

The clinicopathological spectrum of olfactory neuroblastoma and sinonasal neuroendocrine neoplasms: Refinements in diagnostic criteria and impact of multimodal treatments on survival

OBJECTIVES

To provide a comprehensive review of the clinical and histopathological features of olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) and other sinonasal neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), in order to refine diagnostic criteria, analyze treatment outcomes, and identify prognostic factors.

METHODS

Data from an Italian multi-institutional database were analyzed. Patients were treated surgically via a minimally-invasive endoscopic approach followed by adjuvant radiotherapy or radiochemotherapy. Neoadjuvant cisplatin/etoposide chemotherapy was administered in cases of poorly-differentiated tumors. A centralized pathology review was performed in all cases. Patients were prospectively observed for survival. Overall (OS) and Disease-free survival (DFS) estimates were determined from Kaplan-Meier analysis and compared using the log-rank test. Statistically significant variables were entered in a multivariate Cox regression model.

RESULTS

98 patients with a median follow-up of 53months were included. Morphology review and the incorporation of cytokeratin 8/18 in the immunohistochemical panel modified the final diagnosis in 8/98 (8.2%) cases. The neoplasms were ultimately classified into four groups with different immunohistochemical profiles and clinical behaviors: ONB in 67 cases (5-year-OS, 91.6%); NEC (poorly-differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma) in 22 cases (5-year-OS, 42.6%); MiNEN (mixed neuroendocrine/non-neuroendocrine neoplasm) in five cases (5-year-OS, 0%,0/5 cases); and NET (well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor) in four cases (5-year-OS, 50%, 2/4 cases). Hyams grade and Ki67 index were independent prognostic factors for ONB. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy appeared to be associated with improved OS and DFS for NEC, independent of other clinicopathological variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Induction chemotherapy improves survival outcomes in patients affected by poorly-differentiated tumors. Recent advances in histopathological diagnosis, including CK8/18 staining, allow to plan the most appropriate range of multimodal treatments.

Equipment, staffing, and provision of radiotherapy in Lombardy, Italy: Results of three surveys performed between 2012 and 2016

INTRODUCTION:

Several efforts are being implemented at the European level to measure provision of up-to-date radiation treatments across the continent.

METHODS:

A snapshot survey involving all radiation oncology centers within Lombardy, Italy, was performed in 2012 and repeated in 2014 and 2016, in cooperation with regional governmental officers. Centers were asked to provide detailed information concerning all individual patients being treated on the index day, and to report data on available local resources.

RESULTS:

We observed an increase in the number of centers and of megavoltage units (MVU) (from 76 to 87, i.e., 8.7 MVU per million inhabitants in 2016). Mean number of MVU per center was 2.5. Average age of MVU increased from 5.3 to 7.5 years and patients on the waiting list also increased. Conformal 3D radiotherapy (RT) treatments decreased from 56% to 42% and were progressively replaced by intensity-modulated RT treatments (from 39% to 49%). Waiting times were overall satisfactory. Radiation oncologists treated on average 152 and radiation therapists 100 RT courses per year. Average reimbursement per course was €4,879 (range €2,476-€8,014).

CONCLUSIONS:

The methodology of snapshot survey proved feasible and provided valuable information about radiation oncology provision and accessibility in Lombardy.

Hyperfractionated Radiotherapy for T2N0 Glottic Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis at 10 Years Follow-up in a Series of 60 Consecutive Patients

Aims and background

To report results of hyperfractionated radiotherapy for T2N0 glottic carcinoma at a single institution after extended follow-up.

Methods

Between 1980 and 1988 at Varese University Hospital, 60 consecutive patients with T2N0 glottic carcinoma received exclusive radiotherapy consisting of 1.5 Gy/fraction twice a day. Treatment gaps during the radiotherapy course were allowed according to individual tolerance. This policy resulted in a wide range of elapsed treatment time: median, 5.7 weeks; range, 3.7-8.9. Median follow-up is 9.8 years.

Results

As a result of dose/time distribution, 16, 20 and 24 patients received an average weekly dose rate of <10 Gy/week, equal to 10 Gy/week or >10 Gy/week, respectively. Mean total dose for each group was 62.8 Gy, 63.7 Gy and 63.8 Gy, respectively. Five-year local-regional control was 69 ± 6% (95% Cl); ultimate local-regional control, including salvage surgery, was 78 ± 5%. All failures were at the primary site, and no patient developed neck recurrence as first site of failure. The actuarial incidence of grade 2-3 late reactions at 5 years was 42 ± 6%. Most late toxicity events were grade 2: only 2 patients developed grade 3 reactions and none grade 4. None of the several clinical and treatment-related variables showed any statistically significant impact on local-regional control or late toxicity at univariate and multivariate analysis. In particular, 3-year local-regional control rates were 73 ± 11%, 84 ± 8% and 69 ± 10% for an average weekly dose rate of <10 Gy/week, equal to 10 Gy/week and >10 Gy/week, respectively (not significantly different).

Conclusions

At a very long follow-up, the hyperfractionated regimen tested in the study was shown to be effective and devoid of major complications, provided individual patient acute tolerance is carefully taken into account. Also, time factor did not affect outcome in this series.

Biological Predictors of Response to Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer: Recent Advances and Emerging Perspectives

The study of new biological parameters has received considerable attention in radiotherapy during the last decade due to their potential value in predicting treatment response in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCC-HN) and the foreseen possibility of selecting altered fractionation radiotherapy for the individual patient. Although there are established clinical parameters in SCC-HN patients that relate to radiation response (extent of disease, hemoglobin level), recent advances with direct measurement of tumor oxygenation, inherent radiosensitivity and proliferation rate have increased the promise of individualization of treatment strategy according to these radiobiologically based parameters. Molecular research has now identified a host of new biological parameters with potential predictive utility; oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, cell-cycle control genes, apoptosis genes and angiogenesis genes have been extensively studied and correlated with radiation response. Moreover, study of the epidermal growth factor receptor signal-transduction system as a possible response modulator has recently fostered molecular strategies which employ blockade of the receptor to down-regulate tumor growth. This article briefly reviews and analyzes the main controversial issues and drawbacks that hinder the general use of biological parameters for predicting tumor response to radiotherapy. It highlights the future perspectives of radiotherapy predictive assay research and the need to shift from single-parameter analysis to multiparametric studies which take into account several potential predictors that together are involved in different biological and clinical pathways.

Treatment strategies for primary early-stage sinonasal adenocarcinoma: A retrospective bi-institutional case-control study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate different treatment strategies for primary early-stage (pT1-T2) sinonasal adenocarcinomas.

METHODS

Retrospective case-control study. From 2000 to 2011, 61 cases were radically resected using an endoscopic endonasal approach. Surgery as a single treatment modality was adopted for 33 patients (study group) while it was followed by postoperative radiotherapy (poRT) in 28 patients (control group).

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 61 and 67 months for the study and control group respectively. Patients were stratified according to the pT classification and no statistically significant differences were found in terms of Overall (OS) and Recurrence-free (RFS) survival. When analyzing the high-grade tumors (47 cases), statistically significant differences were observed between the control and study groups both in terms of OS (90.5% ± 6.5% versus 57.6% ± 15.4%, P = 0.03) and RFS (92.3% ± 7.39% versus 80.2% ± 8.88%, P = 0.05). Using multivariate analysis, OS was independently determined by poRT (Hazard Ratio = 0.16; P = 0.03) thus confirming its protective role for high-grade adenocarcinomas.

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary results suggest that endoscopic endonasal surgery could be used as a single treatment modality for primary early-stage low-grade sinonasal adenocarcinoma, resected with negative margins. Surgery followed by poRT offers the best treatment strategy not only for advanced-stage lesions but also for high-grade adenocarcinomas, regardless of the stage of disease at presentation.

IMRT-SIB with concurrent and neo-adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer: analysis of clinical outcomes in a retrospective series of a single institution

AIMS AND BACKGROUND

To evaluate results of an intensity-modulated radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated boost schedule with concurrent and neo-adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy for the definitive treatment of locally advanced head and neck cancer in a retrospective series.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

Between May 2007 and February 2010, 28 consecutive patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer (stage II, 11%; III, 18%; IV, 71%) received intensity-modulated radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated boost with concurrent and neoadjuvant (20/28 patients) chemotherapy, at 1.8 G/die to 54 Gy to the elective volume and 66 Gy (2.2 Gy/die) to the tumor volume. Acute and late toxicities were scored according to RTOG/EORTC. A quality of life questionnaire for late xerostomia was also administered. Locoregional control and overall survival were estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 50 months, there was no grade 4 acute/late toxicity. Major acute toxicities were grade 2+ mucositis, 79%; grade 2+ xerostomia, 54%; grade 2+ dysphagia, 86%; 54% of patients required parenteral nutrition. The most relevant late reaction was grade 1 xerostomia (64%), which gradually recovered with time. A linear correlation between the RTOG/EORTC scale and the quality of life questionnaire value (P = 0.0120, r2 = 0.2641) was found, receiver operating characteristic analysis (ROC) confirmed sensitivity of the quality of life questionnaire to define grade 2 late salivary toxicity (P = 0.019). Five-year actuarial locoregional control and overall survival were 81% ± 7.7 SE and 82% ± 7.3 SE, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A prospective trial of the intensity-modulated radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated boost schedule tested in this retrospective series with concurrent and neoadjuvant chemotherapy seems warranted in order to establish this approach as a standard regimen of intensity-modulated radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated boost chemoradiation.

The current management of mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome and the role of radiotherapy: Principles and indications

AIM

To evaluate the current treatment of mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS) focusing on the role of radiotherapy (RT), its principles and indications, and the perspectives of the novel irradiation technologies.

BACKGROUND

MF and SS are rare lymphoproliferative diseases whose incidence is increasing. For a long time RT has been used as a single modality or in integrated treatment programs for these diseases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The latest systematic reviews, primary studies and new diagnostic and treatment guidelines on MF and SS were analyzed. Clinical outcomes together with the technical aspects and the role of RT were also evaluated.

RESULTS

New data are available on pathogenesis, diagnostic criteria, classification and staging procedures for MF and SS and several local and systemic therapies are proposed. Localized RT can cure "minimal stage" MF while total skin electron beam irradiation (TSEI) may cure initial-stage disease and may offer important symptom relief (itch, erythroderma) in a more advanced setting. Despite its efficacy, RT is not largely used, mainly because of some technical difficulties but new RT technologies may be proposed to treat large skin surfaces.

CONCLUSIONS

New treatment programs offer good results, with median survival of more than 12 years in early-stage MF, but the median survival of 2.5 years or less in advanced stages is still a challenge. RT remains an option for all stages with a good cost/effectiveness ratio in a curative or palliative setting. New RT technologies can overcome some technical problems of treating large skin surfaces.

Long term rectal function after high-dose prostatecancer radiotherapy: results from a prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To prospectively evaluate long-term late rectal bleeding (lrb) and faecal incontinence (linc) after high-dose radiotherapy (RT) for prostate cancer in the AIROPROS 0102 population, and to assess clinical/dosimetric risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Questionnaires of 515 patients with G0 baseline incontinence and bleeding scores (follow-up ≥6 years) were analysed. Correlations between lrb/linc and many clinical and dosimetric parameters were investigated by univariate and multivariate logistic analyses. The correlation between lrb/linc and symptoms during the first 3 years after RT was also investigated.

RESULTS

Of 515 patients lrb G1, G2 and G3 was found in 32 (6.1%), 2 (0.4%) and 3 (0.6%) patients while linc G1, G2 and G3 was detected in 50 (9.7%), 3 (0.6%) and 3 (0.6%), respectively. The prevalence of G2-G3 lrb events was significantly reduced compared to the first 3-years (1% vs 2.7%, p=0.016) ≥G1 lrb was significantly associated with V75 Gy (OR=1.07). In multivariate analysis, ≥G1 linc was associated with V40 Gy (OR=1.015), use of antihypertensive medication (OR=0.38), abdominal surgery before RT (OR=4.7), haemorrhoids (OR=2.6), and G2-G3 acute faecal incontinence (OR=4.4), a nomogram to predict the risk of long-term ≥G1 linc was proposed. Importantly, the prevalence of ≥G1 linc was significantly correlated with the mean incontinence score during the first 3 years after RT (OR=16.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term (median: 7 years) rectal symptoms are prevalently mild and strongly correlated with moderate/severe events occurring in the first 3 years after RT. Linc was associated with several risk factors.

Accelerated versus conventional fractionated postoperative radiotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer: results of a multicenter Phase III study

PURPOSE

To determine whether, in the postoperative setting, accelerated fractionation (AF) radiotherapy (RT) yields a superior locoregional control rate compared with conventional fractionation (CF) RT in locally advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, or hypopharynx.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients from four institutions with one or more high-risk features (pT4, positive resection margins, pN >1, perineural/lymphovascular invasion, extracapsular extension, subglottic extension) after surgery were randomly assigned to either RT with one daily session of 2 Gy up to 60 Gy in 6 weeks or AF. Accelerated fractionation consisted of a "biphasic concomitant boost" schedule, with the boost delivered during the first and last weeks of treatment, to deliver 64 Gy in 5 weeks. Informed consent was obtained. The primary endpoint of the study was locoregional control. Analysis was on an intention-to-treat basis.

RESULTS

From March 1994 to August 2000, 226 patients were randomized. At a median follow-up of 30.6 months (range, 0-110 months), 2-year locoregional control estimates were 80% +/- 4% for CF and 78% +/- 5% for AF (p = 0.52), and 2-year overall survival estimates were 67% +/- 5% for CF and 64% +/- 5% for AF (p = 0.84). The lack of difference in outcome between the two treatment arms was confirmed by multivariate analysis. However, interaction analysis with median values as cut-offs showed a trend for improved locoregional control for those patients who had a delay in starting RT and who were treated with AF compared with those with a similar delay but who were treated with CF (hazard ratio = 0.5, 95% confidence interval 0.2-1.1). Fifty percent of patients treated with AF developed confluent mucositis, compared with only 27% of those treated with CF (p = 0.006). However, mucositis duration was not different between arms. Although preliminary, actuarial Grade 3+ late toxicity estimates at 2 years were 18% +/- 4% and 27% +/- 6% for CF and AF, respectively (p = 0.10).

CONCLUSION

Accelerated fractionation does not seem to be worthwhile for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck after resection; however, AF might be an option for patients who delay starting RT.

ARCON: accelerated radiotherapy with carbogen and nicotinamide in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. The experience of the Co-operative group of radiotherapy of the european organization for research and treatment of cancer (EORTC)

BACKGROUND

Since there is increasing evidence that both acute (perfusion-limited) and chronic (diffusion-limited) hypoxia, and tumor repopulation may prejudice the outcome of radiotherapy, the combination of carbogen (95% oxygen-5% carbon dioxide) and nicotinamide with accelerated radiotherapy (ARCON) should reduce the impact of these factors of radioresistance.

AIM

This clinical study was aimed at determining the feasibility, as well as the qualitative and quantitative toxic effects of a therapeutic approach based on ARCON, and assessing the tumor response rates that can be achieved with this regime in patients with locally advanced tumors of the head and neck.

METHODS

A phase I/II study conducted between 1993 and 1996 by the Co-operative Group of Radiotherapy of the EORTC included three consecutive steps: accelerated fractionation (AF) combined with carbogen (11 analyzable patients), AF combined with the daily administration of nicotinamide (n=10), and AF with both carbogen and nicotinamide (n=17). Radiotherapy was based on an accelerated regime (72 Gy in 5.5 weeks). Nicotinamide was delivered 90 min before the first irradiation session, at a daily dose of 6 g. Carbogen breathing started 5 min before irradiation and lasted throughout the entire radiotherapy sessions.

RESULTS

No significant difference in loco-regional toxicity was found among the three study steps, when carbogen and nicotinamide, either alone or in combination, were combined with AF. The feasibility of the ARCON protocol, as proposed in the present EORTC study, appears to be significantly impaired when nicotinamide is added, at a daily dose of 6 g, to AF and carbogen, in an unselected group of patients. More than 20% of patients experienced grade 2 or 3 emesis. It also demonstrates, in unselected groups of patients, no significant difference in tumor response and local control when carbogen and nicotinamide, either alone or in combination, are added to accelerated radiotherapy. The percentages of objective response at 2 months were 81, 70 and 87%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Future ARCON trials should target selected head and neck tumor localizations and stages, and a lower nicotinamide dose is needed to reduce severe upper gastro-intestinal toxicity.

Laryngeal long-term morbidity after supraglottic laryngectomy and postoperative radiation therapy

PURPOSE

This study was performed to investigate factors associated with laryngeal morbidity when postoperative radiation therapy (RT) is added to supraglottic laryngectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 1980 to 1994, 56 patients affected with T1 to 4 N0 to 2c supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma selected for standard (59%) or extended (41%) supraglottic laryngectomy at 2 different institutions were retrospectively analyzed. Most of the patients (91%) also underwent neck dissection. Approximately 80% of the patients had stage T4 primary lesions or N2 neck disease. Postoperative RT was added for presumed microscopic disease at the primary site (13 patients), regional nodes (23 patients), or both (20 patients). Median delivered doses to the larynx and to the neck were 50 Gy (range, 40 to 64 Gy) and 46 Gy (range, 40 to 64 Gy), respectively. Median follow-up for living patients is 11 years (range, 2.8 to 16.9 years). Laryngeal complication was defined as the appearance of grade 2 or higher toxicity according to the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scoring systems.

RESULTS

Two- and 5-year actuarial locoregional control rates were 85+/-5% and 83+/-5%, respectively. Thirty patients (54%) developed laryngeal complications. However, just one patient experienced grade 4 laryngeal oedema requiring permanent tracheostomy. Estimated actuarial survival without laryngeal complications were 50+/-7%, 43+/-7%, and 39+/-7% at 2, 5, and 10 years, respectively. At univariate analysis, treated volumes (P = .03) and total dose to the larynx (P = .03) were significantly associated with local toxicity. A trend was observed also for the maximum dose to the neck (P = .06) and dose per fraction (P = .09). A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed total dose to the larynx to be the only independent predictor of toxicity (P = .03). The hazard ratio of laryngeal toxicity was 2.2 (95% confidence interval: 1.1/4.6), for a total dose to the larynx greater than 50 Gy.

CONCLUSION

After supraglottic laryngectomy, postoperative RT to the neck does not affect local morbidity, but careful RT treatment planning is necessary to avoid delivering a total dose to the larynx greater than 50 Gy.

ARCON: accelerated radiotherapy with carbogen and nicotinamide in non small cell lung cancer: a phase I/II study by the EORTC

BACKGROUND

Non small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) are rapidly proliferating tumours, which are characterized by the presence of extensive hypoxic components, especially in patients with advanced loco-regional disease. Previous studies suggest a deleterious impact of acute (perfusion-limited) hypoxia on the outcome of radiotherapy for these tumours.

AIM

This pilot study was aimed at determining the feasibility and tumour response rates that can be achieved with an ARCON regime in patients with locally advanced, staged IIIA or B, NSCLC tumours.

METHODS

The phase I/II study included three steps: accelerated fractionation (AF) combined with carbogen (ten analysable patients), AF together with the daily administration of nicotinamide (n = 11 ) and AF with both carbon and nicotinamide (n = 14). Radiotherapy was based on a large daily dose per fraction (2.75 Gy up to 55 Gy in 4 weeks). Nicotinamide was administered at a dose of 6 g per patient per treatment day and carbogen was inhaled for 5 min before and during radiotherapy.

RESULTS

The incidence of grade 3 + acute toxicity during the irradiation did not exceed 10%, neither in the lung parenchyma nor in the mediastinum. No significant difference was found in loco-regional, radio-induced toxicity among the three study steps. Although a similar fraction of patients showed grade 2 or 3 emesis in all the steps, of the 25 patients entered in the two Nicotinamide containing steps 10 (40%) developed grade 2 or greater reactions which significantly detracted from their quality of life. There was no significant difference in tumour clearance rate among the three steps. The percentage of objective responses at 2 months was 60, 54 and 57% in steps 1, 2 and 3, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The feasibility of this ARCON protocol, using 2.75 Gy doses per fraction over 4 weeks, is good as regards radiotherapy-related side effects but it appears necessary in future to reduce the dose of Nicotinamide to reduce the incidence of nausea and vomiting. There was no significant difference in time to progression among the three study steps.

[Role of palliative and symptomatic radiotherapy in bone metastasis]

INTRODUCTION

The presence of bone metastases is a common event in the natural history of nearly all neoplasms which often affects the patient's quality of life greatly. Bone metastases may cause pain and pathologic fractures, or even a cord compression syndrome with severe neurologic symptoms. We tried to assess the optimal irradiation schedule for these patients and to discuss the use of radiopharmaceuticals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed the literature focusing on studies investigating the efficacy of hypofractionated radiotherapy for bone metastases. We also addressed the problem of treating multiple skeletal lesions with half-body irradiation and radionuclides.

RESULTS

External beam irradiation achieves pain palliation in more than 75% of patients with bone metastases, even with hypofractionation down to a single-dose administration. The results of exclusive radiotherapy in the cord compression syndrome depend on a prompt diagnosis, patient presentation and the intrinsic radiosensitivity of tumor cells. Palsy can always be avoided in these patients. Half-body irradiation can achieve complete pain relief in over 20% of patients and decrease pain markedly in the remaining cases with only a single-dose fraction (6-10 Gy), within 48 hours of irradiation and with little side-effects. Better results in terms of pain relief (80% complete responses) and duration of palliation come from fractionated half-body irradiation (up to 17.5 Gy in 7 fractions), which however has a more delayed response (1-2 weeks) and higher toxicity. The use of radiopharmaceuticals has been recently reevaluated after the introduction of new nuclides: results are similar to those of external beam irradiation (up to 80% responses), but cost and hematologic toxicity are both high. Radiopharmaceuticals can be used within an integrated treatment with external beam irradiation, chemotherapy and biphosphonates.

DISCUSSION

The efficacy of external beam irradiation in the palliation of bone metastasis-related symptoms is confirmed by this literature review, even with short treatments and single-dose administrations. This is important for both patient expectations and the necessity for improved resource allocation with reference to the territorial distribution and waiting lists of radiotherapy centers. Finally, as for the role of radiopharmaceuticals, the best nuclides are not widely used yet for the high cost of the treatment, even though they provide similar results to external beam irradiation. The issue of their efficacy in combination with antiblastic drugs and/or external beam irradiation remains open and will be clarified only with further randomized clinical trials.

[Radiation treatment of early stage supraglottic cancer]

The management of early-stage squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the supraglottic larynx is still controversial. Supraglottic laryngectomy as well as irradiation alone is correlated with good oncological and functional results. In order to evaluate the results and prognostic factors influencing the successful using radiotherapy (RT), the authors performed a retrospective study of 100 consecutive T1-T2 N0 M0 cases of SCC of the supraglottic larynx, treated at a single institution between 1983 and 1992. RT was delivered with 60Co or 6 MeV photons through two lateral parallel opposed portals encompassing the primary laryngeal tumor and the upper and mid-neck nodes (Robbins' levels II, III and V). Supraclavicular nodes (level IV) were electively irradiated in 54 patients with T2 N0 tumors only, using an anterior field with midline block. Sixty-three patients received conventional fractionation (2 Gy/fraction, once-a-day, five times a week), while 37 patients were irradiated according to a twice-a-day fractionation regimen (1.5 Gy/fraction, twice a day with six-hour interval, five days a week). The median total tumor dose delivered was 67 Gy. A multivariate analysis showed that performance status, tumor grade and fractionation modality were the only statistically significant variables influencing disease-free survival. Acute and late radiation reactions were relatively low. This retrospective study confirms that conservative management of T1-T2 N0 supraglottic cancer using RT can achieve good cure rates with the possibility of larynx preservation for the majority of the patients. The decision between different conservative treatment modalities may be influenced by several factors correlated to the patient's conditions, tumor characteristics, but especially treatment modalities.

The value of pretreatment cell kinetic parameters as predictors for radiotherapy outcome in head and neck cancer: a multicenter analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the potential of pre-treatment cell kinetic parameters to predict outcome in head and neck cancer patients treated by conventional radiotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 11 different centers were pooled. Inclusion criteria were such that the patients received radiotherapy alone, and that the radiotherapy was given in an overall time of at least 6 weeks with a dose of at least 60 Gy. All patients received a tracer dose of either iododeoxyuridine (IdUrd) or bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) intravenously prior to treatment and a tumor biopsy was taken several hours later. The cell kinetic parameters labeling index (LI), DNA synthesis time (Ts) and potential doubling time (Tpot) were subsequently calculated from flow cytometry data, obtained on the biopsies using antibodies against I/BrdUrd incorporated into DNA. Each center carried out their own flow cytometry analysis.

RESULTS

From the 11 centers, a total of 476 patients conforming to the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Median values for overall time and total dose were 49 days and 69 Gy, respectively. Fifty one percent of patients had local recurrences and 53% patients had died, the majority from their disease. Median follow-up was 20 months; being 30 months for surviving patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that T-stage, maximum tumor diameter, differentiation grade, N-stage, tumor localization and overall time correlated with locoregional control, in decreasing order of significance. For the cell kinetic parameters, univariate analysis showed that only LI was significantly associated with local control (P=0.02), with higher values correlating with a worse outcome. Ts showed some evidence that patients with longer values did worse, but this was not significant (P=0.06). Tpot showed no trend (P=0.8). When assessing survival in a univariate analysis, neither LI nor Tpot associated with outcome (P=0.4, 0.4, respectively). Surprisingly, Ts did correlate with survival, with longer values being worse (P=0.02). In the multivariate analysis of local control, LI lost its significance (P=0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

The only pretreatment kinetic parameter for which some evidence was found for an association with local control (the best end-point for testing the present hypothesis) was LI, not Tpot, and this evidence disappeared in a multivariate analysis. It therefore appears that pretreatment cell kinetic measurements carried out using flow cytometry, only provide a relatively weak predictor of outcome after radiotherapy in head and neck cancer.

The predictive role of flow cytometry-derived tumor potential doubling time (Tpot) in radiotherapy: open questions and future perspectives

Measurement of tumor-cell kinetic parameters, following in vivo administration of thymidine analogues and bivariate flow cytometry, allows quantitative cell kinetic determinations in a clinically relevant time-scale, potentially useful for selection of individual radiotherapy schedules. Among the dynamic cell kinetic parameters that can be measured using the in vivo method, the tumor potential doubling time (Tpot), defined as the time to double the number of proliferating tumor cells in the absence of cell loss, has been postulated to be a predictor of a tumor's proliferative capability, thus representing a potential predictive factor of local control after irradiation. So far, published data have shown the safety and feasibility of the technique, even in multicenter studies, and demonstrated a wide range of parameter values in many tumor sites. With only a few exceptions the hypothesis that Tpot is an independent prognostic indicator cannot be considered proven yet. We review the major controversial issues and open questions, mainly in the area of data production and analysis, that must be resolved before the predictive role of Tpot is unequivocally defined. The future of radiotherapy predictive assays lies in the development of multiparametric studies, accounting for multiple factors of radiation response, which may prove of greater prognostic significance than any single parameter approach based only on cell kinetics.

Conservative management of T1-T2N0 supraglottic cancer: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

Evaluate the results of conservative management of early-stage supraglottic cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 166 consecutive T1-T2N0 cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx, treated conservatively between 1983 and 1992, was performed. Sixty-six patients received conservative surgery (CS), whereas 100 patients received definitive radiation therapy (RT). Surgical procedures included horizontal supraglottic laryngectomy in 38 patients, extended supraglottic laryngectomy in 16 patients, and reconstructive laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy in 12 patients. Elective bilateral neck dissection was always performed. Radiotherapy was delivered with 60Co or 6 MV photons to the primary laryngeal tumor and the upper and mid neck nodes (level II and III), whereas supraclavicular nodes (level IV) were electively irradiated only in 54 patients with T2N0 tumors. Fifty-two patients received conventional fractionation, whereas 31 patients were irradiated according to a twice-a-day fractionation regimen. The median total tumor dose was 67 Gy (range, 64 to 72 Gy).

RESULTS

The 5-year overall survival of the whole series was 72.7% +/- 4.5. In patients treated with CS, the 5-year disease-free survival was 88.4% +/- 4.5 versus 76.4% +/- 6.1 for patients who received RT. Salvage surgery was effective in rescuing 2 of 3 CS failures and 12 of 25 RT failures. The overall incidence of secondary tumors (11%) and distant metastases (5%) was relatively low, although together they account for 15% of all deaths. Complications of CS were significantly correlated to the extent of surgical procedure. A multivariate analysis performed in the RT group showed that performance status, tumor grade, and fractionation regimen significantly influenced disease-free survival.

CONCLUSION

Conservative management of T1-T2N0 supraglottic cancer, either by CS or RT, can achieve good cure rates with larynx preservation for the majority of the patients (82% overall; 95% in the CS group and 72% in the RT group). The decision between different conservative treatment modalities may be influenced by the patient's conditions, tumor characteristics, treatment modalities, and also economic costs.

Accelerated radiation therapy for locally advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity and oropharynx selected according to tumor cell kinetics--a phase II multicenter study

PURPOSE

A Phase II multicenter trial testing an accelerated regimen of radiotherapy in locally advanced and inoperable cancers of the head and neck, in patients selected on the basis of 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine/DNA flow cytometry-derived tumor potential doubling time (Tpot).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

From September 1992 to September 1993, 23 patients consecutively diagnosed to have locally advanced, inoperable carcinomas of the oral cavity and the oropharynx, with Tpot of < or = 5 days, received an accelerated radiotherapy regimen (AF) based on a modification of the concomitant boost technique: 2 Gy/fraction once a day, delivered 5 days a week up to 26 Gy, followed by 2 Gy/fraction twice a day, with a 6-h interval, one of the two fractions being delivered as a concomitant boost to reduced fields, up to 66 Gy total dose (off-cord reduction at 46 Gy), shortening the overall treatment time to 4.5 weeks. A contemporary control group of 46 patients with Tpot of >5 days or unknown was treated with conventional fractionation (CF): 2 Gy/fraction once a day, 5 days a week, up to 66 Gy in 6.5 weeks, with fields shrinkage after 46 Gy.

RESULTS

All patients completed the accelerated regimen according to protocol and in the prescribed overall treatment time. Immediate tolerance was fairly good: 65% of the patients in the AF group experienced Grade 3 mucositis vs. 45% in the CF group (p = n.s.). Symptoms related to mucosal reactions seemed to persist longer in AF than in CF patients. The crude proportion of mild (Grades 1 and 2) late effects on skin (p < 0.01) and salivary glands (p < 0.05) was higher in AF than in CF patients, although these reactions did not exceed the limits of tolerance. Three patients in the AF and 1 in the CF arm experienced a late Grade 4 bone complication. Actuarial estimates of severe (Grades 3 and 4) late complications showed a 2-year hazard of 33.3% in the AF arm and 49.7% in CF (p = NS). The actuarial 2-year local control rate of the AF patients was 49.4%, while actuarial 2-year overall survival for the same patients was 43.5%.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that this accelerated regimen is worth testing in a controlled randomized trial to compare different accelerated schedules. Our findings also confirmed the 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine/DNA flow cytometry technique as a suitable method of evaluating tumor cell kinetics in multicenter clinical studies, on condition that all measurements are carried out by one most experienced laboratory.

[Radiotherapy of cutaneous cervical-facial carcinomas]

The main goal of therapy for epithelial skin cancer is cure with the best functional and cosmetic outcome. Both surgery and radiotherapy give similar results for early stage lesions with 5-year local control rates ranging from 85% to 95%. Remarkable technological progress has been made yielding well defined indications to radiotherapy as a single treatment or in the context of a multidisciplinary approach. Selection of treatment should be tailored considering anatomic site, surface conformation, size, histology, grading and characteristics of tumours (new occurrence, relapse), number of localizations, age and medical conditions of the single patient. Surgery, guided by intraoperative control of resection margins, is undoubtedly the therapy of choice for most of early stage lesions. Radiation therapy plays an important role in specific anatomic situations in which the functional or cosmetic result is better than for a surgical modality, electively for the treatment of multiple lesions and for large deep- infiltrating carcinomas that generally are not suitable to excision. Exclusive radiotherapy is also indicated as rescue treatment of surgical relapses no more amenable to reexcision as well as for palliation of advanced cases, mainly for elderly or medically compromised patients. Postoperative irradiation should be considered for macro or microscopic residual disease. Merkel cell or adnexal carcinomas and for highly recurrent lesions after repeated surgery. Treatment results and complications of radiotherapy are discussed, emphasizing high local control rates and good functional and cosmetic outcomes. The main irradiation techniques referred to specific anatomic sites are also presented.

Role of Postoperative Radiation Therapy in the Management of Early Stage Primary Gastric Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas: A Retrospective Analysis

Background

Clinical approaches to early primary gastric non-Hodgkin's lymphomas have not yet been clearly defined, and the role of postoperative radiotherapy remains a matter of discussion.

Methods

Twenty-seven patients with early primary gastric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were observed from December 1978 to December 1990 at our Institution. They were staged according to Musshoff and Schmidt-Volmer (19) as I E (n = 16), II E 1 (n = 7) and II E 2 (n = 4). All of them underwent local combined treatment, consisting of surgery and postoperative radiotherapy; chemotherapy was also administered to 10 patients, mainly with the CHOP regimen, for 4-6 cycles before radiotherapy. Irradiation was delivered using 10 MV photons from a linear accelerator. Large abdominal fields were employed in 21 cases with daily fractions of 1.5-2 Gy up to a median total dose of 30 Gy (range: 27-36 Gy). Six patients were irradiated only on the surgical bed up to 40.5 Gy (range: 39-40.5 Gy).

Results

The 5-year overall and disease-free survivals were respectively 92.4% and 89.8%. The main known prognostic indicators, stage of disease, type of surgery as well as age and sex, were not found to be statistically significant in our series. No clear difference emerged between patients sequentially treated with the combination surgery-chemotherapy-radiotherapy and those who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy. Two patients recurred at distant sites, but no local failure was seen during the follow-up.

Conclusions

Although no firm conclusion can be drawn, our experience, in agreement with recent published reports, points out that the use of postoperative radiotherapy is associated not only to favorable results in terms of local control and survival, but also, and moreover, to a negligible incidence of side effects and sequelae. However, in the absence of multi-institutional prospective randomized studies, whose activation is nowadays strongly warranted, the exact role of adjuvant therapies remains a matter of discussion, and the optimal treatment of early primary gastric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma still depends on individual experience and the physician's philosophy.

Postoperative radiation therapy for adult soft tissue sarcomas: a retrospective study

From 1977 to 1988, 81 adult patients with localized soft tissue sarcomas at different sites received postoperative external beam radiotherapy (55 Gy median dose) following primary conservative surgery. Sixty were new referrals after primary surgery and 21 were irradiated after excision of recurrent disease. With a median follow-up of 4 years (range: 2-13) the 5-year overall survival (Kaplan-Meier) and local control were 55.5% and 56% respectively, while 5-year disease-free survival is 49%. There were 26 (32%) local relapses and 22 (27%) distant failures. Local recurrence was the sole pattern of failure in 16 patients (20%). Functional and cosmetic results were good to excellent in most cases. In our series local control is the main prognostic variable influencing survival (P less than 0.0001), and its probability seems to show a link with the type of surgical procedure, with a trend (P less than 0.13) in favor of wide total excision. Postoperative radiation therapy represents an acceptable treatment strategy for ASTS, but further improvements are expected from future controlled clinical trials, aiming at the achievement of the definitive cure of these tumors.