Safety and preliminary efficacy of pembrolizumab following trans-arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma: the PETAL phase Ib study

BACKGROUND

TACE may prime adaptive immunity and enhance immunotherapy efficacy. PETAL evaluated safety, preliminary activity of TACE plus pembrolizumab and explored mechanisms of efficacy.

METHODS

Patients with liver-confined HCC were planned to receive up to 2 rounds of TACE followed by pembrolizumab 200 mg every 21 days commencing 30-days post-TACE until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity for up to 1 year. Primary endpoint was safety, 21-days dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) from pembrolizumab initiation. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS) and evaluation of tumour and host determinants of response.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were included in the safety and efficacy population: 73% had non-viral cirrhosis, median age was 72 years. Child-Pugh (CP) class was A in 14 patients. Median tumour size was 4 cm. Ten patients (67%) received pembrolizumab after 1 TACE, 5 patients after 2 (33%). Pembrolizumab yielded no synergistic toxicity nor DLTs post-TACE. Treatment-related adverse events occurred in 93% of patients most commonly skin rash (40%), fatigue and diarrhoea (27%). After a median follow-up of 38.5 months, objective response rate (ORR) 12 weeks post-TACE was 53%. PFS rate at 12 weeks was 93% and median PFS was 8.95 months (95%CI 7.30-NA). Median duration of response was 7.3 months (95%CI: 6.3-8.3). Median OS was 33.5 months (95%CI: 11.6-NA). Dynamic changes in peripheral T-cell subsets, circulating tumour DNA, serum metabolites and in stool bacterial profiles highlight potential mechanisms of action of multi-modal therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

TACE plus pembrolizumab was tolerable with no evidence of synergistic toxicity, encouraging further clinical development of immunotherapy alongside TACE.

Emerging health and social policy considerations for safe and quality end-of-life care in Australia - the evidence, gaps and challenges

Recognition of the importance of end-of-life care will enable improvements in the quality of care delivered to patients and their families. Australia is experiencing an increasing number of deaths, (many expected), with an aging population who are living longer, often with multimorbidity. This makes end of life care a priority. The last year of someone's life takes place in a complex healthcare system, with increasing pressures on care delivery, placing the spotlight on health service providers to ensure that teams and individuals are supported and enabled to provide such care. Two rapid literature reviews identified best practice principles and processes for delivering safe and high-quality end-of-life care in acute care, aged care and community settings. The reviews identified that end-of-life care is experienced within the whole health and social care system, including hospital admissions interspersed with care in the community, outpatient and emergency department visits and potentially admission to a hospice. Much of this last year of life is spent at home, which may be a personal residence, an aged care facility, prison, supported accommodation or even on the streets. Transitions across settings requires seamless care, as well as organisational readiness to deliver safe and culturally appropriate care. This is more important now with end-of-life care subject to quality assurance mechanisms within the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (2nd edn): Comprehensive care. This requires all sectors to work collaboratively when caring for someone at the end of their life in order to see positive changes in care outcomes.

PETAL protocol: a phase Ib study of pembrolizumab after transarterial chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the treatment of choice for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent data suggest that TACE may boost the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. The authors present the trial protocol for PETAL, a phase Ib study, which will assess the safety and bioactivity of pembrolizumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, following TACE in HCC. After a run-in phase evaluating six patients to establish preliminary safety, up to 26 additional participants will be enrolled. Pembrolizumab will be administered three-times weekly for 1 year or until progression, starting 30-45 days after TACE. The primary objective is to determine safety and the secondary objective is to preliminarily evaluate efficacy. Radiological responses will be evaluated every four cycles. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT03397654 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

A phase Ib study of pembrolizumab following trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): PETAL

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Background: Trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the gold-standard for intermediate stage HCC. We hypothesised the ischemic and cytotoxic effect of TACE to boost anti-cancer immunity and to synergise with the anti PD-1 pembrolizumab (pembro). We designed a phase Ib study to test the safety and preliminary efficacy of pembro after TACE in intermediate HCC. Methods: PETAL study will enroll up to 32 patients with intermediate HCC to receive pembro 200 mg every 3 weeks for up to 1 year or until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The first safety-run-in phase includes 6 patients: if no dose limiting toxicities (DLTs) emerge over a 21-day window after first pembro, the others are enrolled in the expansion phase. Pembro is given within 30 days after 1 or 2 TACEs. The first phase includes 1 patient scoring Child-Pugh (CP)-B7 and the remaining have to be CP-A. Safety is the primary endpoint and is measured as the incidence of treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), graded according to NCI CTCAEv4. Efficacy is the secondary endpoint and is evaluated as progression free survival (PFS) from first TACE, according to mRECIST criteria. Survival is estimated using Kaplan-Meier method. All the patients who have received at least one dose of pembro are evaluable for safety. Results: At the time of data cut-off, on the 14th of January 2022, 14 patients had received at least one dose of pembro. The median age was 72 (IQR: 63.3-74.6), 79% were male, 71% were cirrhotic, 29% had viral hepatis and 43% ECOG PS 1. One patient had Child-Pugh (CP) class B7 and 13 had A. The median number of nodules was 1.5 (IQR:1-2.8), and 4.1 cm (IQR: 3.7-4.5) the median diameter. Overall, 5 patients received 2 TACEs and 9 had 1. Patients received a median of 4.5 cycles (IQR: 2.3-6.5) of pembro. No DLTs emerged in the first phase. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) of any grade (G) were reported in 86% of participants, 21% of participants experienced G3 TRAEs, and there were no G4 or G5 TRAEs. Specific skin-related toxicity was the most frequently reported (35%) TRAE. No patients had treatment-related liver toxicity. Causes of treatment discontinuation were PD (n=7), TRAEs (n=1), clinical deterioration in the CP B patient (n=1), COVID pandemic (n=2) and withdrawal of consent (n=1); at the time of data cut-off, mPFS from first TACE was 10.8 months (95%CI: 6.63-14.97). Conclusions: Adjuvant pembro following TACE is manageable and tolerable with signs of activity. These results prompt the investigation in larger trials. Clinical trial information: NCT03397654. [Table: see text]

Preliminary results from a phase Ib study of neoadjuvant ipilimumab plus nivolumab prior to liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: The PRIME-HCC trial

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Background: Early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be treated with liver resection (LR), but up to 70% of patients experience relapse within two years after surgery. Despite their established use in advanced disease, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPI) are still under investigation in the peri-operatory setting. Methods: PRIME‐HCC is a phase Ib study investigating safety and bioactivity of the nivolumab (3 mg/kg, day 1 and day 22) plus ipilimumab (1mg/kg, day 1 only) combination (Nivo+Ipi) prior to LR in early-stage HCC. The primary safety analysis assessed treatment-related adverse events (trAE) and delays to surgery. Secondary endpoint included objective response rate (ORR) by RECIST v1.1 and pathologic response rate on resection specimens. Results: At data censoring on the 27th of January 2022, 17 patients were enrolled, of whom 82% (n = 14) were male, with a median age of 64 years (range 47-76). Performance status was 0 in 88% of patients (n = 15) according to the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group scale. Liver cirrhosis was found in 65% (n = 11) of the patients, mostly secondary to viral hepatitis (41%, n = 7). All patients were Child-Pugh A, with 53% (n = 9) classified as albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade 2, and the rest grade 1. Median tumour diameter was 3.4 cm (interquartile range [IQR] 2.4-4.0), and the median number of liver nodules was 1 (range 1-3). Any-grade trAEs were reported by 73% of the patients receiving at least one dose of treatment (n = 11, tot n = 15). Four patients (27%) reported grade 2 trAEs including hypothyroidism (n = 2), diarrhoea (n = 1), and fatigue (n = 1), and one (7%) grade 3 ALT/AST elevation. After a median follow-up of 6.3 months (IQR 1.9-23.0), no deaths had occurred. One patient had experienced relapse 20.8 months after treatment commencement, and he achieved partial response to subsequent treatment with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab. Median time to LR from screening was 2.5 months (IQR 2.3-3.2). Only one patient had a surgery delay due to liver function worsening (ICPI-unrelated) and experienced disease progression 12.4 months post-screening. One patient was found to have cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) on LR specimen and was excluded from efficacy analyses. Of the 13 patients with an available radiological assessment, ORR was 23%, with two partial responses and one complete response. Disease control rate was 92%, with one patient with mixed HCC/CCA histology showing primary progression. Of the nine pathologically evaluable patients, seven (78%) achieved a pathological response, including two (22%) complete responses. Conclusions: Nivo+Ipi can be safely administered in the neoadjuvant setting for HCC and does not delay LR. The combination demonstrates promising evidence of anti-tumour efficacy in terms of radiological and pathological response. Clinical trial information: NCT03682276.

PRIME-HCC: Phase Ib study of neoadjuvant ipilimumab and nivolumab prior to liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma

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Background: There are no approved peri-operative anti‐cancer therapies for patients with hepatocellular cancer (HCC) who are candidates for liver resection (LR). Combination immunotherapy induces radiologically measurable responses in > 25% of patients with HCC, providing a rationale for neoadjuvant use in surgical candidates. Methods: PRIME‐HCC is a two-part, multi-centre, phase Ib study to assess safety and bioactivity of the nivolumab (3 mg/kg, day 1 and day 22) plus ipilimumab (1mg/kg, day 1 only) combination prior to LR in early-stage HCC. The primary objective of the study is to determine the treatment-related adverse events (trAE) and delays to surgery. Efficacy endpoints include overall response rates (ORR) by RECIST v1.1 and pathologic responses on resection specimens. Results: At the data censoring time of Jan 29th 2021, 7 patients were enrolled, all were of Child-Pugh class A, with cirrhosis (n = 6, 85.7%) secondary to viral etiology (n = 4, 57.2%). Male/female ratio was 6/1 and median age was 66 (range: 57-70). The median diameter of the dominant liver lesion was 3.3 cm (inter quartile range, IQR 1.2, range 1.1-4.1 cm) and the median number of nodules was 2 (IQR 0.5; range 1-3). Study part I (n = 6) was completed with no surgical delays. TrAEs of all grade were observed in 6/7 safety-evaluable patients (85%). TrAEs of grade >2 occurred in 3 patients (42%) and included grade 3 transaminitis (n = 1), grade 2 thyroid toxicity (n = 1), grade 2 infusion reaction (n = 1) and fatigue (n = 1). One patient was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma after dosing and was removed from efficacy analyses. ORR according to RECIST v1.1 criteria in efficacy-evaluable patients (n = 5) was 20%, including 1 partial response and 4 disease stabilisations. Pathological responses were observed in 3 out of 5 pathologically evaluable patients (60%). Conclusions: Neoadjuvant immunotherapy with nivolumab plus ipilimumab is tolerable, does not compromise management of patients on a radical pathway of care and is characterised by anti-tumour efficacy in early-stage HCC. Clinical trial information: NCT03682276.

What Is the Community Pharmacists' Role in Supporting Older Australians with Palliative Care Needs?

As the population ages, the number of older populations globally requiring palliative care is rapidly growing, requiring services of multidisciplinary teams—including community pharmacists. The aim of this study is to describe the community pharmacists’ perceived role in providing services to community dwelling older Australians receiving palliative care. Utilising an eight-domain End of Life Directions for Aged Care (ELDAC) care model, a national cross-sectional questionnaire was designed and undertaken online with Australian community pharmacists. Respondents were asked questions relating to socio-demographic characteristics, practice characteristics, and scope of services provided. Of the 62 pharmacists who responded to the questionnaire, 51 were included in the final data analysis and reporting. Pharmacists working in dispensing roles made up about half of the respondents, while the remainder worked in settings such as general practice, residential aged care, or providing medication review services. Pharmacists can identify patients with indicators of poor life expectancy and mostly work with older Australians daily. Dispensing and non-dispensing pharmacists offer a range of services that complement each other. Organisations caring for the aged should consider the role of the pharmacist, in caring for people with palliative care needs, along with their carers.

PRIME-HCC: phase Ib study of neoadjuvant ipilimumab and nivolumab prior to liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

After liver resection (LR), patients with hepatocellular cancer (HCC) are at high risk of recurrence. There are no approved anti-cancer therapies known to affect such risk, highlighting the acute need for novel systemic therapies to control the probability of disease relapse. Immunotherapy is expanding as a novel treatment option for HCC. Emerging data from cohort 4 of the CA209–040 study, which investigated the safety and preliminary efficacy of nivolumab/ipilimumab co-administration in advanced HCC, suggest that the combination can be delivered safely with an acceptable proportion of reversible grade 3–4 toxicities (27.1%) and a low discontinuation rate (2%) in patients with HCC. Here, we describe the design and rationale of PRIME-HCC, a two-part, multi-centre, phase Ib study to assess safety and bioactivity of the nivolumab/ipilimumab combination prior to LR in early-stage HCC.

Methods

The study involves an initial safety run-in phase (Part 1) to allow for preliminary safety characterisation within the first 6 patients enrolled and a subsequent expansion (Part 2). Ipilimumab will be administered once only on Day 1. Nivolumab will be administered on Day 1 and Day 22 (± 3 days) for a total of two 21-day cycles (i.e. 6 weeks of treatment). The primary objective of the study is to determine the safety and tolerability of the nivolumab/ipilimumab combination prior to LR. The secondary objective is to preliminarily characterize the efficacy of the combination prior to LR, including objective response rate (ORR) and pathologic response rates. Additional exploratory objectives include preliminary evidence of long-term disease control and to identify predictive correlates of response to the nivolumab/ipilimumab combination in HCC.

Discussion

The results of this study will help define the positioning of neoadjuvant nivolumab/ipilimumab combination in the perioperative management of HCC, with potential to improve survival outcomes in this patient population.

Trial registration

EudraCT Number: 2018–000987-27 Clinical trial registry & ID: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03682276.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08033-x.

The Roles and Responsibilities of Community Pharmacists Supporting Older People with Palliative Care Needs: A Rapid Review of the Literature

Globally, the number of older people requiring appropriate and safe management of medicines is growing. This review aimed to identify the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists supporting older people living in a community setting with their palliative care needs and to synthesise key themes emerging from the data, as well as any gaps in knowledge. The literature search included Medline (Ovid), Scopus, and Cinahl (Ebsco) databases. An English language limit was applied. The search included all international articles and any date of publication. Data were synthesised utilizing a systematic text condensation technique and presented according to Theme, Domain, and Meaning Units. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Selected papers predominantly focused on care provided by the pharmacists supporting people receiving residential aged care services. Clinical review, supply of medicines, and clinical governance were identified as key pharmacist roles. Pharmacists’ communication skills, personal behavioural approach, and positive attitude emerged as supportive characteristics for effective person-centered care. Minimal, or no information, were available related to pharmacists located in general medical practices and in Aboriginal health services sector, respectively. The multifaceted role of pharmacists presents an opportunity to provide comprehensive health care for older populations at the end of their life.

What Are the Factors Identifying Caregivers Who Need Help in Managing Medications for Palliative Care Patients at Home? A Population Survey

Background: For most people, the last 12 months of life are spent living in the community, with the support of family and friends for a number of caregiving functions. Previous research has found that managing medicines is challenging for caregivers. Currently there is little information describing which caregivers may struggle with tasks associated with managing a loved one's medicines. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify factors that flag caregivers who are likely to experience problems when managing someone else's medications. Setting/Participants: The annual South Australian Health Omnibus Survey provides a face-to-face, cross-sectional, whole-of-population view of health care. Structured interviews, including questions covering palliative care and end-of-life care, were conducted with 14,625 residents in their own homes. Results: Of the 1068 respondents who had provided care for someone who died of a terminal illness in the last five years, 7.4% identified that additional support with medicine management would have been beneficial. In addition, three factors were predictive of the need for additional support in managing medicines: aged <65 years; lower household income; and living in a metropolitan region. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide insights to inform the development of palliative care service models to support informal caregivers in the management of medications for people with a life-limiting illness.

Preliminary qualification of a novel, hypoxic-based radiologic signature for trans-arterial chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Survival advantage following trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is variable in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We combined pre-TACE radiologic features to derive a novel prognostic signature in HCC.

METHODS

A multi-institutional dataset of 98 patients was generated from two retrospective cohorts from United Kingdom (65%) and Italy (36%). The prognostic impact of a number baseline imaging parameters was assessed and factors significant on univariate analysis were combined to create a novel radiologic signature on multivariable analyses predictive of overall survival (OS) following TACE.

RESULTS

Median OS was 15.4 months. Tumour size > 7 cm (p < 0.001), intra-tumour necrosis (ITN) (p = 0.02) and arterial ectatic neovascularisation (AEN) (p = 0.03) emerged as individual prognostic factors together with radiologic response (p < 0.001) and elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) (p = 0.01). Combination of tumour size > 7 cm, ITN and AEN identified patients with poor prognosis (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a coherent signature based on commonly available imaging biomarkers likely to be reflective of differential patterns of relative hypoxia and neovascularisation. Large tumours displaying AEN and ITN are characterised by a shorter survival after TACE.

Combined sequential use of HAP and ART scores to predict survival outcome and treatment failure following chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma: a multi-center comparative study

Background

The prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is variable, despite a myriad of prognostic markers. We compared and integrated the established prognostic models, HAP and ART scores, for their accuracy of overall survival (OS) prediction.

Results

In both training and validation sets, HAP and ART scores emerged as independent predictors of OS (p<0.01) with HAP achieving better prognostic accuracy (c-index: 0.68) over ART (0.57). We tested both scores in combination to evaluate their combined ability to predict OS. Subgroup analysis of BCLC-C patients revealed favorable HAP stage (p<0.001) and radiological response after initial TACE (p<0.001) as positive prognostic factors.

Patients and Methods

Prognostic scores were studied using multivariable Cox regression and c-index analysis in 83 subjects with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) A/B stage from UK and Italy (training set), and 660 from Korea and Japan (validation set), all treated with conventional TACE. Scores were further validated in an separate analysis of patients with BCLC-C stage disease (n=63) receiving initial TACE.

Conclusion

ART and HAP scores are validated indices in patients with intermediate stage HCC undergoing TACE. The HAP score is best suited for screening patients prior to initial TACE, whilst sequential ART assessment improves early detection of chemoembolization failure. BCLC-C patients with low HAP stage may be a subgroup where TACE should be explored in clinical studies.

Improving community access to terminal phase medicines through the implementation of a 'Core Medicines List' in South Australian community pharmacies

OBJECTIVES

Difficulties accessing medicines in the terminal phase hamper the ability of patients to die at home. The aim of this study was to identify changes in community access to medicines for managing symptoms in the terminal phase throughout South Australia (SA), following the development of a 'Core Medicines List' (the List) while exploring factors predictive of pharmacies carrying a broad range of useful medicines.

METHODS

In 2015, SA community pharmacies were invited to participate in a repeat survey exploring the availability of specific medicines. Comparisons were made between 2012 and 2015. A 'preparedness score' was calculated for each pharmacy, scoring 1 point for each medicine held from the following 5 classes: opioid, benzodiazepine, antiemetic, anticholinergic and antipsychotic.

RESULTS

The proportion of pharmacies carrying all items from the List rose from 7% in 2012 to 18% in 2015 (p=0.01). Multiple linear regression demonstrated that a monthly online newsletter subscription (p=0.04) and provision of a clinical service to aged care facilities (p=0.02) were predictors of pharmacies carrying all items on the List. Furthermore, multiple linear regression demonstrated that the provision of an afterhours service (p=0.02) and clinical services to aged care facilities (p=0.04) were predictors of pharmacies with a high 'preparedness score'. In responding to issues with supply of medicines at end of life, respondents were more likely to contact the prescriber if aware of palliative patients (p=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that there is value in developing and promoting a standardised list of medicines, ensuring that community palliative patients have timely access to medicines in the terminal phase.

Case conferencing for palliative care patients – a survey of South Australian general practitioners

Benefits of case conferencing for people with palliative care needs between a general practitioner, the person and other key participants include improving communication, advance care planning, coordination of care, clarifying goals of care and support for patient, families and carers. Despite a growing evidence base for the benefits, the uptake of case conferencing has been limited in South Australia. The aim of this study is to explore the beliefs and practice of South Australian general practitioners towards case conferencing for people with palliative care needs. Using an online survey, participants were asked about demographics, attitudes towards case conferencing and details about their most recent case conference for a person with palliative care needs. Responses were received from 134 general practitioners (response rate 11%). In total, 80% valued case conferencing for people with palliative care needs; however, <25% had been involved in case conferencing in the previous 2years. The major barrier was time to organise and coordinate case conferences. Enablers included general practitioner willingness or interest, strong relationship with patient, specialist palliative care involvement and assistance with organisation. Despite GPs’ beliefs of the benefits of case conferencing, the barriers remain significant. Enabling case conferencing will require support for organisation of case conferences and review of Medicare Benefits Schedule criteria for reimbursement.

Oncological Outcomes of Major Liver Resection Following Portal Vein Embolization: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Preoperative portal vein occlusion with either percutaneous portal vein embolization (PVE) or portal vein ligation is routinely used to induce liver hypertrophy prior to major liver resection in patients with hepatic malignancy. While this increases the future liver remnant, and hence the number of patients suitable for resection, recent evidence suggests that induction of liver hypertrophy preoperatively may promote tumor growth and increase recurrence rates. The aims of this current study were to evaluate the impact of PVE on hepatic recurrence rate and survival in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).

METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science databases were searched to identify studies assessing the oncological outcomes of patients undergoing major liver resection for CRLM following PVE. Studies comparing patients undergoing one-stage liver resection with or without preoperative PVE were included. The primary outcome was postoperative hepatic recurrence (PHR), while secondary outcomes were 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Of the 2131 studies identified, six non-randomized studies (n = 668) met the eligibility criteria, comparing outcomes of patients undergoing major liver resection with or without PVE (n = 182 and n = 486, respectively). No significant difference was observed in PHR (odds ratio [OR] 0.78; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.42-1.44), 3-year OS (OR 0.80; 95 % CI 0.56-1.14) or 5-year OS (OR 1.12; 95 % CI 0.40-3.11).

CONCLUSIONS

PVE does not have any adverse effect on PHR or OS in patients undergoing major liver resection for CRLM. Further studies based on individual patient data are needed to provide definitive answers.

Core palliative medicines: meeting the needs of non-complex community patients

BACKGROUND

There are a number of challenges facing people in the last days of life who wish to receive care in their home environment. This includes timely access to medicines for symptom control.

OBJECTIVE

This article outlines the development of a concise list of core medicines that can provide symptom control in non-complex patients in the last days of life. The list is based on practical criteria including evidence of efficacy, affordability, the option for parenteral administration, availability on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and the doctors' emergency drug supply list.

DISCUSSION

A list of core medicines can facilitate timely prescribing and supply of essential medicines for end-of-life symptom management. However, the development of this list should not replace planning and routine involvement of community resources. Multidisciplinary education strategies are needed to ensure that the core medicines list is utilised effectively by doctors, pharmacists and community nurses.

Postanastomotic transplant renal artery stenosis: association with de novo class II donor-specific antibodies

In this study, we analyze the outcomes of transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS), determine the different anatomical positions of TRAS, and establish cardiovascular and immunological risk factors associated with its development. One hundred thirty-seven of 999 (13.7%) patients had TRAS diagnosed by angiography; 119/137 (86.9%) were treated with angioplasty, of which 113/137 (82.5%) were stented. Allograft survival in the TRAS+ intervention, TRAS+ nonintervention and TRAS- groups was 80.4%, 71.3% and 83.1%, respectively. There was no difference in allograft survival between the TRAS+ intervention and TRAS- groups, p = 0.12; there was a difference in allograft survival between the TRAS- and TRAS+ nonintervention groups, p < 0.001, and between the TRAS+ intervention and TRAS+ nonintervention groups, p = 0.037. TRAS developed at the anastomosis, within a bend/kink or distally. Anastomotic TRAS developed in living donor recipients; postanastomotic TRAS (TRAS-P) developed in diabetic and older patients who received grafts from deceased, older donors. Compared with the TRAS- group, patients with TRAS-P were more likely to have had rejection with arteritis, odds ratio (OR): 4.83 (1.47-15.87), p = 0.0095, and capillaritis, OR: 3.03 (1.10-8.36), p = 0.033. Patients with TRAS-P were more likely to have developed de novo class II DSA compared with TRAS- patients hazard ratio: 4.41 (2.0-9.73), p < 0.001. TRAS is a heterogeneous condition with TRAS-P having both alloimmune and traditional cardiovascular risk factors.

Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of cholangiocarcinoma: an update

The British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines on the management of cholangiocarcinoma were originally published in 2002. This is the first update since then and is based on a comprehensive review of the recent literature, including data from randomised controlled trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, cohort, prospective and retrospective studies.

The role of early ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in prediction of progression-free survival after ⁹⁰Y radioembolization: comparison with RECIST and tumour density criteria

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the ability of (18)F-FDG PET/CT imaging to predict early response to (90)Y-radioembolization in comparison with contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) using RECIST and lesion density (Choi) criteria. Progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with liver metastases at 2 years and decline in tumour markers were the primary end-points of the study.

METHODS

A total of 121 liver lesions were evaluated in 25 patients (14 men, 11 women) with liver-dominant metastatic colorectal cancer who underwent (18)F-FDG PET/CT and CECT before and 6-8 weeks after treatment. Changes in SUV(max), tumour density measured in terms of Hounsfield units and the sum of the longest diameters (LD) were calculated for the target liver lesions in each patient. The patient responses to treatment were categorized using EORTC PET criteria, tumour density criteria (Hounsfield units) and RECIST, and were correlated with the responses of tumour markers and 2-year PFS using Kaplan-Meier plots and the log-rank test for comparison. Multivariate proportional hazards (Cox) regression analysis was performed to assess the effect of relevant prognostic factors on PFS.

RESULTS

Using (18)F-FDG PET/CT response criteria, 15 patients had a partial response (PR) and 10 patients had stable disease (SD), while using RECIST only 2 patients had a PR and 23 had SD. Two patients had a PR, 21 SD and 2 progressive disease using tumour density criteria. The mean changes in SUV(max), sum of the LDs and tumour density after treatment were 2.9 ± 2.6, 7.3 ± 14.4 mm and 1.9 ± 13.18 HU, respectively. Patients who had a PR on (18)F-FDG PET/CT had a mean decrease of 44.5 % in SUV(max) compared to those with SD who had a decrease of only 10.3 %. The decreases in SUV(max) and sum of the LDs were significant (p < 0.0001, p < 0.05, respectively) while the decrease in tumour density was not (p > 0.1065). The responses on the (18)F-FDG PET/CT studies were highly correlated with the responses of tumour markers (p < 0.0001 for LDH, p = 0.01 for CEA and p = 0.02 for Ca19-9), while the responses on the CECT studies using both RECIST and tumour density criteria were not significantly correlated with the responses of tumour markers. The responses on (18)F-FDG PET/CT studies also significantly predicted PFS (the median PFS in those with a PR was 12.0 months and in those with SD was 5 months, p < 0.0001), while RECIST and tumour density did not significantly predict PFS. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that responses on (18)F-FDG PET/CT studies and decreases in SUV(max) of ≤ 2.0 were the strongest predictors of PFS.

CONCLUSION

Early response assessment to (90)Y-radioembolization using (18)F-FDG PET/CT is superior to RECIST and tumour density, demonstrating a correlation with tumour markers and significantly predicting PFS in patients with liver metastases. This could enable early response-adapted treatment strategies to be employed.

Two-stage resection for bilobar colorectal liver metastases: R0 resection is the key

BACKGROUND

Two-stage liver resection (2-SLR) is used clinically in conjunction with portal vein embolization for bilobar disease to increase the number of patients suitable for liver resection. The long-term outcomes after 2-SLR for multiple bilobar colorectal liver metastases (CLM) was examined.

METHODS

Patients who sought care between November 2003 and April 2006 with multiple CLM considered suitable for 2-SLR were prospectively followed. Clinicopathological data were collected. Surgical outcomes were defined as complete clearance of tumor (R0/R1/R2), postoperative morbidity (within 3 months), 30 day mortality, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

A total of 131 patients with CLM underwent liver resection during the study period, 38 of whom were planned for a 2-SLR for multiple bilobar disease. Only 33 (87%) completed the 2-SLR with a curative intent. Five patients did not undergo stage II resection because of disease progression. The postoperative morbidity was 11 and 33% after stage I and stage II liver resections, respectively. Five patients (13%) encountered postoperative complications specific to liver surgery. The median interval from stage II resection to disease recurrence in the R0 group was 18 months versus 3 months in the R1/R2 group (P < 0.001). R0 resection with curative intent versus R1/R2 noncurative resection has a significantly longer period of DFS (P < 0.001) and OS (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The 2-SLR combined with portal vein embolization is an effective and safe method for resecting previously unresectable multiple bilobar CLM. However, a positive resection margin leads to poor DFS and OS.

Absence of uterine arteries discovered at fibroid embolisation

Uterine artery embolisation is an increasingly used modality for the treatment of uterine leiomyomata. A 45-year-old woman with menorrhagia due to fibroids was discovered at uterine artery embolisation to have absent uterine arteries. Knowledge of the potential anatomical variants is important for those carrying out uterine artery embolisation, and further investigation of alternative treatment methods is required.

Percutaneous transhepatic cholecystoduodenal stent for empyema of the gallbladder

Acute cholecystitis is treated by antibiotics and cholecystectomy. When the gallbladder neck is obstructed in the presence of infection, preventing pus from draining via the cystic duct, an empyema of the gallbladder develops. Under these circumstances, treatment may be either cholecystectomy or, in the presence of significant comorbidity, by drainage via percutaneous cholecystostomy, followed at a later date by cholecystectomy. We present the case of a patient who presented acutely with an attack of cholecystitis and refused to undergo a cholecystectomy owing to previous respiratory arrest following general anaesthesia. She settled with intravenous antibiotic treatment and was discharged. However, she presented shortly afterwards with a further attack of cholecystitis that was refractory to intravenous antibiotics and so was treated initially with percutaneous drainage. This was subsequently replaced with interno-external drainage of the gallbladder (transpapillary cholecystoduodenal stent) with the use of a J-J ureteric stent, which was then fully internalised. She remained well following this procedure and was discharged home. The long-term patency of the stent is not known and we hope that no further intervention will be required, but if necessary the stent could be exchanged endoscopically, by a percutaneous route, or via a combined approach.

Fatal pulmonary embolus after uterine artery fibroid embolisation

We report a 44-year-old woman who developed a fatal pulmonary embolus after uterine artery fibroid embolisation (UAE). Bilateral UAE was carried out through a single right-femoral artery puncture. The largest fibroid in the anterior fundal wall measured 4.5 cm, and the largest fibroid in the posterior fundal wall measured 6 cm. The appearances after UAE were satisfactory, and the procedure was apparently uneventful. No immediate complications were noted. The patient developed sudden-onset shortness of breath and went into cardiac arrest 19 h after the procedure. Postmortem autopsy confirmed that the cause of a death was a pulmonary embolism. To our knowledge this is the first reported case in the United Kingdom in which death occurred from a pulmonary embolus after UAE.

Contrast-enhanced 3D ultrasound in the radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors

Liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinomas are two of the most common causes of cancer deaths in the world. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a well recognized, effective and minimally invasive means of treating malignant hepatic tumors. This article describes the use of contrast-enhanced 3D ultrasound (CE-3DUS) in the staging, targeting and follow-up of patients with liver tumors undergoing RFA. In particular, its value in the management of large hepatic lesions will be illustrated. Current limitations of CE-3DUS and future developments in the technique will also be discussed. In summary, CE-3DUS is useful in the RFA of liver tumors with improved detection and display of occult lesions and recurrence, in the assessment of lesional geometry and orientation for a more accurate planning and guidance of multiple RFA needle electrodes in large tumors and in the evaluation of residual or recurrent disease within the immediate and/or subsequent follow-up periods.

Management of delayed postoperative hemorrhage after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether interventional radiology (IR) or laparotomy (LAP) is the best management of delayed postoperative hemorrhage (DPH) after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Data Source We undertook an electronic search of MEDLINE and selected for analysis only original articles published between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2007.

STUDY SELECTION

Two of us independently selected studies reporting on clinical presentation and incidence of postoperative DPH and the following outcomes: complete hemostasis, morbidity, and mortality.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two of us independently performed data extraction. Data were entered and analyzed by means of dedicated software from The Cochrane Collaboration. A random-effects meta-analytical technique was used for analysis.

DATA SYNTHESIS

One hundred sixty-three cases of DPH after pancreaticoduodenectomy were identified from the literature. The incidence of DPH after pancreaticoduodenectomy was 3.9%. Seventy-seven patients (47.2%) underwent LAP; 73 (44.8%), IR; and 13 (8%), conservative treatment. On meta-analysis comparing LAP vs IR for DPH, no significant difference was found between the 2 treatment options for complete hemostasis (73% vs 76%; P = .23), mortality (43% vs 20%; P = .14), or morbidity (77% vs 35%; P = .06).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis, although based on data from small case series, is unable to demonstrate any significant difference between LAP and IR in the management of DPH after pancreaticoduodenectomy. The management of this life-threatening complication is difficult, and the appropriate treatment pathway ultimately will be decided by the clinical status of the patient and the institution preference.

Successful removal of malpositioned chest drain within the liver by embolization of the transhepatic track

The insertion of a chest drain catheter for the management of a pneumothorax in an 82-year-old woman resulted in the unusual complication of liver penetration. The position of the drain was assessed by contrast-enhanced computed tomographic scan. Because the patient was hemodynamically stable and no damage to major vessels was seen on computed tomographic scan, the patient was treated in a nonoperative manner. A procedure was performed under controlled conditions using techniques used during transhepatic liver biopsies but with the addition of a balloon catheter. Embolization of the liver track was performed during chest drain removal. The drain was successfully removed without the complication of bleeding in a patient unsuitable for a general anesthetic.

Autologous infusion of expanded mobilized adult bone marrow-derived CD34+ cells into patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis

OBJECTIVES

Recent advances in regenerative medicine, including hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation, have brought hope for patients with severe alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC). The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of administering autologous expanded mobilized adult progenitor CD34+ cells into the hepatic artery of ALC patients and the potential improvement in the liver function.

METHODS

Nine patients with biopsy-proven ALC, who had abstained from alcohol for at least 6 months, were recruited into the study. Following granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) mobilization and leukapheresis, the autologous CD34+ cells were expanded in vitro and injected into the hepatic artery. All patients were monitored for side effects, toxicities, and changes in the clinical, hematological, and biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

On average, a five-fold expansion in cell number was achieved in vitro, with a mean total nucleated cell count (TNCC) of 2.3 x 10(8) pre infusion. All patients tolerated the procedure well, and there were no treatment-related side effects or toxicities observed. There were significant decreases in serum bilirubin (P < 0.05) 4, 8, and 12 wk post infusion. The levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) showed improvement through the study period and were significant (P < 0.05) 1 wk post infusion. The Child-Pugh score improved in 7 out of 9 patients, while 5 patients had improvement in ascites on imaging.

CONCLUSION

It is safe to mobilize, expand, and reinfuse autologous CD34+ cells in patients with ALC. The clinical and biochemical improvement in the study group is encouraging and warrants further clinical trials.

Long-term clinical results of autologous infusion of mobilized adult bone marrow derived CD34+ cells in patients with chronic liver disease

Evidence is growing in support of the role of stem cells as an attractive alternative in treatment of liver diseases. Recently, we have demonstrated the feasibility and safety of infusing CD34(+) adult stem cells; this was performed on five patients with chronic liver disease. Here, we present the results of long-term follow-up of these patients. Between 1 x 10(6) and 2 x 10(8) CD34(+) cells were isolated and injected into the portal vein or hepatic artery. The patients were monitored for side effects, toxicity and changes in clinical, haematological and biochemical parameters; they were followed up for 12-18 months. All patients tolerated the treatment protocol well without any complications or side effects related to the procedure, also there were no side effects noted on long-term follow-up. Four patients showed an initial improvement in serum bilirubin level, which was maintained for up to 6 months. There was marginal increase in serum bilirubin in three of the patients at 12 months, while the fourth patient's serum bilirubin increased only at 18 months post-infusion. Computed tomography scan and serum alpha-foetoprotein monitoring showed absence of focal lesions. The study indicated that the stem cell product used was safe in the short and over long term, by absence of tumour formation. The investigation also illustrated that the beneficial effect seemed to last for around 12 months. This trial shows that stem cell therapy may have potential as a possible future therapeutic protocol in liver regeneration.

Management of delayed arterial hemorrhage after pancreaticoduodenectomy. A case series

CONTEXT Delayed arterial hemorrhage is a rare complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (frequency 2-4%) but carries a high mortality, with up to a third of patients dying as a consequence. Its ideal management remains unclear.

CASE SERIES

Between 1993 and 2007, 317 head of pancreas resections were performed at our institution; there were 5 cases of delayed arterial hemorrhage (frequency 1.6%).

CONCLUSION

This paper presents our experience in the management of delayed arterial haemorrhage post pancreaticoduodenecomy and discusses the role of angiograms, endoscopy and laparotomy in its management.

Treatment of primary and secondary liver tumours with selective internal radiation therapy

When HCC is diagnosed at an early stage or liver is affected by a solitary metastasis they can be curable by surgical resection, but this may not be feasible when an extensive tumoural involvement is present. In these cases, possible non-surgical therapies include systemic chemotherapy, chemical ablation (ethanol or acetic acid), radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, cryotherapy and transarterial chemoembolisation. All the above mentioned treatments have advantages and disadvantages. In the present paper we reported our experience with selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) of non-operable HCC and metastatic liver using 99Yttrium (99Y) radioactive microspheres, and our data are compared and discussed with those reported in the literature. A MEDLINE-based review of the literature has been made in the period between 1990 and April 2007. Detailed information on patients selection criteria, SIRT procedure, dose calculation, safety and adverse reactions, follow-up schedule, and clinical efficacy are provided. On the basis of our data, in agreement with those of the literature, SIRT has added another effective method for treatment of primary and secondary liver tumours, being successful in a large number of patients in different experiences. Moreover, SIRT is well tolerated and has minimal adverse effects. Despite being regarded as non-curative, it has been associated with improved survival, reduction in tumour marker, and regression in the number and size of lesions. Follow-up with imaging is essential to assess the response to therapy, and in this respect FDG PET has been shown to be more sensitive than CT, particularly in the early stages.

Correlation between preoperative biliary drainage, bile duct contamination, and postoperative outcomes for pancreatic surgery

BACKGROUND

Although previously examined, the potential relationship between preoperative biliary drainage (PBD), intraoperative bile culture (IBC), and postoperative morbidity and mortality rate for pancreatic surgery remains unclear.

METHODS

Two hundred twenty patients underwent operation for either benign pancreatic disease or malignant periampullary and pancreatic neoplasms, consisting of pylorus-preserving proximal pancreatoduodenectomy (n = 180), biliary bypass (n = 31), and total pancreatectomy (n = 9). An intraoperative bile specimen was prospectively collected immediately after division of the bile duct and sent for bacteriologic evaluation for both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms. Morbidity and mortality rates were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 220 patients evaluated, 113 patients (51.4%) had a positive IBC. Factors associated with a positive IBC were age >70 years (odds ratio [OR], 5.9;95% confidence interval, [CI]: 1.6-22.1; P = .007), history of coronary artery disease (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.01-0.5; P = .007), diagnosis of neoplasia (OR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1-0.9; P =. 03), and PBD (OR, 0.1; 95% CI, 0.06-0.2; P = .0001). Infectious complications (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1-3; P = .03), and wound infection (OR, 2.8; 95% CI,1.4-5.3; P = .002) were greater in patients with positive IBC.

CONCLUSIONS

PBD predisposes to a positive IBC. Patients with a positive IBC have a clinically important increased risk of developing both infectious complications and wound infection after pancreatic surgery.

Selective internal radiation therapy with Yttrium-90 for unresectable liver tumours

Primary and secondary liver tumours are common malignancies that are being treated more aggressively nowadays than decades ago. Surgery is the most effective method of treatment but is only suitable for a minority of patients with well-defined and easily accessible tumours. Surgical resection is contraindicated in patients with massive involvement of the liver or in cases where the disease involves the confluence of vessels at the porta hepatis. These patients may benefit from a variety of ablative and embolic therapies including selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) with Yttrium-90 microspheres. SIRT has been introduced in the 1980's but the technology has been refined and made more available only recently. The microspheres are injected directly into the hepatic arteries, through a trans-femoral angiographic approach, and are delivered selectively to tumours due to their preferential blood supply by hepatic arteries. SIRT can therefore target small volumes disease with a higher dose of radiation compared with external-beam radiation and is associated the relatively low toxicity and a good response irrespective of tumor origin. Assessment of response to therapy is best performed with metabolic imaging using (18)F-FDG PET scanning. Although it is not considered as a cure, it has been shown to improve quality of life and prolong survival, with the main cause of death being extra-hepatic spread. The technical and clinical demands of patient selection, treatment planning, administration, and clinical follow-up require an interdisciplinary team willing to work cooperatively to achieve the best result for the patient.

School-based education programmes for the prevention of child sexual abuse

BACKGROUND

Child sexual abuse is a significant problem that requires an effective means of prevention.

OBJECTIVES

To assess: if school-based programmes are effective in improving knowledge about sexual abuse and self-protective behaviours; whether participation results in an increase in disclosure of sexual abuse and/or produces any harm; knowledge retention and the effect of programme type or setting.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Electronic searches of Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Sociological Abstracts, Dissertation Abstracts and other databases using MESH headings and text words specific for child sexual assault and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted in August 2006.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs or quasi-RCTs of school-based interventions to prevent child sexual abuse compared with another intervention or no intervention.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Meta-analyses and sensitivity analysis, using two imputed intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) (0.1, 0.2), were used for four outcomes: protective behaviours, questionnaire-based knowledge, vignette-based knowledge and disclosure of abuse. Meta-analysis was not possible for retention of knowledge, likelihood of harm, or effect of programme type and setting.

MAIN RESULTS

Fifteen trials measuring knowledge and behaviour change as a result of school-based child sexual abuse intervention programmes were included. Over half the studies in each initial meta-analysis contained unit of analysis errors. For behaviour change, two studies had data suitable for meta-analysis; results favoured intervention (OR 6.76, 95% CI 1.44, 31.84) with moderate heterogeneity (I(2)=56.0%) and did not change significantly when adjustments using intraclass coefficients were made. Nine studies were included in a meta-analysis evaluating questionnaire-based knowledge. An increase in knowledge was found (SMD 0.59; 0.44, 0.74, heterogeneity (I2=66.4%). When adjusted for an ICC of 0.1 and 0.2 the results were SMD 0.6 (0.45, 0.75) and 0.57 (0.44, 0.71) respectively. Heterogeneity decreased with increasing ICC. A meta-analysis of four studies evaluating vignette-based knowledge favoured intervention (SMD 0.37 (0.18, 0.55)) with low heterogeneity (I(2)=0.0%) and no significant change when ICC adjustments were made. Meta-analysis of between-group differences of reported disclosures did not show a statistically significant difference.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Studies evaluated in this review report significant improvements in knowledge measures and protective behaviours. Results might have differed had the true ICCs from studies been available or cluster-adjusted results been available. Several studies reported harms, suggesting a need to monitor the impact of similar interventions. Retention of knowledge should be measured beyond 3-12 months. Further investigation of the best forms of presentation and optimal age of programme delivery is required.

Concordant F-18 FDG PET and Y-90 Bremsstrahlung scans depict selective delivery of Y-90-microspheres to liver tumors: confirmation with histopathology

Selective Internal Radiation Therapy using yttrium-90 (Y-90) microspheres is a novel method for the treatment of advanced liver cancer. The procedure involves intrahepatic arterial delivery of the Y-90 microspheres. Since hepatic tumors derive their blood supply mainly from the hepatic arteries, it is assumed that the microspheres will be preferentially delivered to tumor cells. However, this has not been confirmed at histology. We report a case of hepatic metastasis from an unknown primary, where treatment with Y-90 microspheres was the only available option due to inoperability and low tolerance to chemotherapy. Pretherapy F-18 FDG-PET scan defined the distribution of the active tumor within the liver. Following the injection of Y-90 microspheres, Bremsstrahlung imaging showed uptake only in the F-18 FDG-PET-defined tumor area. Post therapy debulking surgery was performed and histopathology of tumor samples confirmed the preferential distribution of the injected microspheres in the hepatic tumor circulation with very little in the healthy liver tissue. The case confirms the preferential blood flow to hepatic tumors as depicted by the distribution of Y-90 microspheres injected directly in the hepatic arteries. It also demonstrates that concordance between F-18 FDG-PET and Y-90 Bremsstrahlung scans can be a useful clue to the in vivo distribution of microspheres.

Clinical and imaging experience with yttrium-90 microspheres in the management of unresectable liver tumours

INTRODUCTION

Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) is emerging as a new therapeutic modality in recent years for management of non-resectable hepatic malignancies. Our experience in clinical application of this treatment is reported here.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From June 2004, patients whose liver tumours were no longer amenable for any conventional treatment with either chemotherapy or surgery were considered for yttrium-90 microspheres treatment after discussion at our multidisciplinary meeting. A pre-treatment planning was carried out with visceral angiography and technetium-99m macroaggregated albumin (MAA) for assessment of both tumour volume and extrahepatic shunting in addition to a baseline PET and CT scans, respectively. Two weeks later, a second visceral angiogram was performed to deliver the calculated dosage of microspheres into the arterial system supplying the tumour. Patients were then followed up with tumour markers, repeat PET and CT scans of abdomen at 6 weeks and 3 monthly thereafter.

RESULT

Twenty-one patients (F=11, M=10; age range 40-75 years, mean=58 years) received yttrium-90 microspheres consisting of liver metastases from colorectal primary (n=10) and non-colorectal primaries (n=8), and primary liver tumours (n=3). One patient received 2 treatments. The mean administered activity of microspheres delivered was 1.9 GBq (range 1.2-2.5 GBq). Injection of microspheres had no immediate effect on either clinical haematology or liver function tests. At follow-up, 86% of patients showed decreased activity on PET scan at 6 weeks (p=0.01). The mean pre-treatment SUV was 12.2+/-3.7 and the mean post-treatment SUV was 9.3+/-3.7, indicating a significant improvement measured with PET activity. Only 13% showed a reduction in the size of tumour on CT scan. For patients with colorectal liver metastases, there was no significant reduction in CEA level (127+/-115 vs 75+/-72 micro/l, p=0.39). Complications were seen in 4 patients (19%) including radiation hepatitis (n=2), cholecystitis (n=1) and duodenal ulceration (n=1). All resolved without surgical intervention. Seven patients died at follow-up from progressive extrahepatic disease (33%).

CONCLUSION

SIRT should be considered for patients with advanced liver cancer. It has a significant effect on liver disease in the absence of extrahepatic disease. PET imaging has an integral role in the assessment of patients treated with yttrium-90 SIR-Spheres.

Extraanatomic stents for transplant ureteric stenosis

Surgical and standard endourology options are limited in transplant patients with severe ureteric stenosis, particularly when access to the transplant renal pelvis is limited. The use of a silicone-polytetrafluoroethelene (PTFE)-bonded extraanatomic urinary tract stent for urinary tract drainage is described in two patients. This technique of ureteric reconstruction in renal transplantation may be considered when standard approaches have failed. It appears to be safe when performed by radiologists and urologists with expertise in percutaneous renal access.

Management and prevention of adverse effects related to treatment of liver tumours with 90Y microspheres

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Selective internal radiation therapy with 90Y microspheres (SIR spheres) is increasingly used in the treatment of extensive liver tumours. Careful selection and preparation of patients are necessary to avoid possible adverse effects. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and severity of adverse effects resulting from the administration of SIR spheres during therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between June 2004 and August 2006, 21 patients (11 women and 10 men; age range 40-75 years; mean, 58 years) with a wide range of extensive liver tumours were treated with SIR spheres. The mean administered dose was 1.87 GBq (range 1.2-2.5 GBq). During the follow-up period of 26 months, all adverse effects were monitored and classified according to the National Cancer Institute criteria.

RESULTS

Four patients had adverse effects: one case of cholecystitis followed by fibrosis and portal hypertension, one case of peptic ulceration and two cases of radiation hepatitis. All cases responded to appropriate therapy.

CONCLUSION

Proper selection of patients and accurate interpretation of pre-treatment investigations are vital for minimizing adverse effects following therapy with SIR spheres. In our experience, all adverse effects were moderate with no life-threatening consequences.