Use of the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors gefitinib, erlotinib, afatinib, dacomitinib, and icotinib in the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review addresses the use of epidermal growth factor receptor (egfr) inhibitors in three populations of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc) patients-unselected, selected, and molecularly selected-in three treatment settings: first line, second line, and maintenance.

METHODS

Ninety-six randomized controlled trials found using the medline and embase databases form the basis of this review.

RESULTS

In the first-line setting, data about the efficacy of egfr tyrosine kinase inhibitors (tkis) compared with platinum-based chemotherapy are inconsistent. Results from studies that selected patients based on clinical characteristics are also mixed. There is high-quality evidence that an egfrtki is preferred over a platinum doublet as initial therapy for patients with an activating mutation of the EGFR gene. The egfrtkis are associated with a higher likelihood of response, longer progression-free survival, and improved quality of life. Multiple trials of second-line therapy have compared an egfrtki with chemotherapy. Meta-analysis of those data demonstrates similar progression-free and overall survival. There is consequently no preferred sequence for second-line egfrtki or second-line chemotherapy. The egfrtkis have also been evaluated as switch-maintenance therapy. No molecular marker could identify patients in whom a survival benefit was not observed; however, the magnitude of the benefit was modest.

CONCLUSIONS

Determination of EGFR mutation status is essential to making appropriate treatment decisions in patients with nsclc. Patients who are EGFR mutation-positive should be treated with an egfrtki as first-line therapy. An egfrtki is still appropriate therapy in patients who are EGFR wild-type, but the selected agent should be administered as second- or third-line therapy.

Randomized phase II trial of pemetrexed/cisplatin with or without CBP501 in patients with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma

BACKGROUND

CBP501, a synthetic duodecapeptide, increases cisplatin influx into tumor cells through an interaction with calmodulin enhancing cisplatin cytotoxicity, and effects cell cycle progression by abrogating DNA repair at the G2 checkpoint. In phase I clinical trials of CBP501 alone or in combination with cisplatin, the most common toxicity was infusion-related urticaria. Activity of CBP501 plus cisplatin was observed in patients with ovarian cancer and mesothelioma, including some patients previously treated with cisplatin.

METHODS

Chemotherapy naïve patients with unresectable MPM were stratified by histology and performance status, and randomized 2:1 to pemetrexed/cisplatin plus CBP501 25mg/m(2) IV (Arm A) or pemetrexed/cisplatin alone (Arm B). The primary endpoint was progression free survival (PFS) at 4 months.

RESULTS

65 patients were randomized, and 63 were treated. Patient characteristics in the two arms were balanced. Based on independent radiology review of the treated population, 25/40 patients (63%) in Arm A and 9/23 (39%) in Arm B had PFS≥4mo; the median PFS was 5.1mo (95% CI, 3.9, 6.5) vs 3.4mo (2.5, 6.7). Median OS was 13.3mo (9.2, 16.3) in Arm A and 12.8 (6.5, 16.1) in Arm B. Adverse events were not different than expected from standard chemotherapy, and comparable in the two arms, aside from infusion reactions which occurred in 70% of patients treated with CBP501.

CONCLUSIONS

While this randomized phase II trial met its primary endpoint of PFS at 4 months, other parameters such as response rate and overall survival suggest that the addition of CBP501 does not improve the efficacy of standard chemotherapy for MPM.

A case of recurrent metastatic ameloblastoma and hypercalcaemia successfully treated with carboplatin and paclitaxel: long survival and prolonged stable disease

We describe a case of recurrent metastatic malignant ameloblastoma to the lungs with hypercalcaemia in a 47-year-old man. The first lung metastasis was resected nine years after the initial primary, and the tumour recurred with extensive pulmonary metastases 21 years after the primary tumour was resected. This case presented with malignancy-associated hypercalcaemia, likely due to paraneoplastic syndrome, which is exceedingly unusual in association with malignant ameloblastoma. He was successfully treated with carboplatin/paclitaxel and showed the longest survival and stable disease, from the diagnosis of recurrent metastasis, recorded as a case report. This regimen is reasonably well tolerated and can be repeated safely.

Adjuvant chemoradiation for gastric cancer with infusional 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin: a phase I study

OBJECTIVE

This phase I study aimed to determine the maximal tolerated dose of cisplatin administered every 2 weeks with infusional 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and concurrent radiation therapy (RT) in patients after complete resection of gastric adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

Patients with resected stage IB to IV (M0) gastric adenocarcinoma were treated with 12 weeks of infusional 5FU (200 mg/m(2) daily) and with RT (45 Gy in 25 fractions starting on day 16). Cisplatin was administered in escalating doses (0, 20, 30, and 40 mg/m(2)) in weeks 1, 3, 5, and 7. In the final cohort, patients received an additional dose of cisplatin (40 mg/m(2)) in week 9.

RESULTS

Among the 34 patients [median age: 56 years (range: 31-77 years)] who were assessable for toxicity, 5 experienced dose-limiting toxicities: 1 sepsis (cohort 1), 1 fatigue (cohort 2), 3 upper gastrointestinal toxicity (1 in cohort 2, 2 in cohort 5). Cohort 5 exceeded the maximal tolerated dose. Median follow-up was 2.5 years (range: 0.3-5 years). The 3-year overall and relapse-free survival rates were 86% and 71% respectively; median survival was not reached.

CONCLUSIONS

Cisplatin was well tolerated in combination with infusional 5FU and RT, showing promising activity in the adjuvant treatment of gastric cancer. Infusional 5FU 200 mg/m(2) daily for 12 weeks with cisplatin 40 mg/m(2) in weeks 1, 3, 5, and 7 and with concurrent RT 45 Gy in 25 fractions, starting at day 16, is being explored in a phase II study at our institution.

Mesothelin as a marker of response in malignant pleural mesothelioma

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Background: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare malignancy related to asbestos exposure. Radiological assessment of disease status and treatment response using RECIST criteria is often difficult, therefore blood markers of disease burden may be useful adjunctively. Soluble mesothelin related peptide (sMRP) can distinguish between MPM and benign pleural disease. We performed an exploratory analysis to determine whether sMRP correlates with MPM disease course. Methods: From December 2006 to August 2008 blood samples were collected from MPM patients during clinic visits. Plasma sMRP levels were measured using the MESOMARK assay (Fujirebio diagnostics). Changes in sMRP levels were compared with corresponding radiological tests, scored as progression, stable or disease shrinkage. Results: From 41 patients, 165 samples were collected (median 4/patient; range 2–10). At study entry 34/37 (92%) patients with measurable disease had elevated sMRP (>9ng/ml, range 14–60). In 22 patients receiving chemotherapy or biologic therapy, relative (Fisher's exact test, p=3.2x10–6) and absolute (p=2.6x10–5) changes in sMRP correlated with radiological assessment (Table). All 4 post-surgery surveillance patients, with no evidence of recurrence, had normal sMRP levels (1.8–4.9). Of 8 patients who underwent surgical resection, 7 had elevated pre-operative sMRP that fell to normal post-operatively (Wilcoxon rank (WR) p=0.02). Absolute sMRP rose in all patients with radiological progression (systemic therapy, n=9, WR p=0.004; supportive care, n=10, WR p=0.02). Conclusions: sMRP levels not only correlate with surgical debulking but we report, for the first time, that they also correlate with treatment response and radiological progression in MPM patients undergoing systemic therapy or supportive care. sMRP may be a clinically useful biomarker in MPM clinical trials and in patient management. These findings should be validated prospectively.

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A phase II study of capecitabine, irinotecan, and bevacizumab (XELIRI-A) in patients (pts) with previously untreated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC)

e15019

Background: Capecitabine (XEL), irinotecan (IRI) and bevacizumab (A) are all active agents in the treatment of mCRC. However, combining these agents has proven to be problematic due to overlapping toxicities. Optimal dosing strategies for this combination remain unclear. This study prospectively evaluated toxicity and efficacy of the XELIRI-A combination with dose modification. Methods: This was a single-institution, open-label phase II clinical trial. Eligible pts include those with previously untreated metastatic CRC, adequate organ function and ECOG performance status 0–2. IRI (200 mg / m2) and A (7.5 mg / kg) were given on day 1, and XEL (1000 mg / m2 p.o. BID) was given on days 1–14 of every 21-day cycle. The dose of XEL was reduced to 750 mg / m2 BID for pts age ≥ 65. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included response rate, time to progression, overall survival and toxicity. Results: 50 pts (ECOG PS 0:1 = 27:23; male:female= 34:16) were enrolled over 19 months. Median age was 58 (range: 35–72). 7 pts had prior adjuvant chemotherapy. A total of 360 cycles were administered, with a median of 6 (range: 1–16). To date, 20 confirmed PR, 3 unconfirmed PR, and 20 SD by RECIST criteria were observed (ORR= 40%, disease control rate 86%). The median PFS was 11.1 months (95% CI: 9.2 months - not reached), and the 1-year progression-free rate was 49%. 7 pts have gone on to have metastatectomy. The most frequently reported related grade 3 or 4 adverse events were neutropenia (6), hand-foot syndrome (6), and diarrhea (5). One death was seen on study, and 1 pt had treatment-emergent grade 3 hypertension. Conclusions: XELIRI-A at doses studied appears to be well- tolerated. Results are favorable compared to those from previous studies. XELIRI-A at reduced doses is safe and effective as first-line treatment for mCRC.

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Malignant Mesothelioma: Canadian Perspective and Research Directions

Since the 1960s, the incidence of malignant mesothelioma in Canada has increased dramatically because of work-related asbestos exposures. Treatment options are limited. Although chemotherapy is now an accepted standard in the management of advanced disease, uncertainty surrounds the roles of radical surgery and radiation. In March 2007, a symposium was held in Vancouver, B.C., to review the current approach to malignant mesothelioma in Canada and to discuss development of a national clinical research strategy.

The impact of anemia on outcome of chemoradiation for limited small-cell lung cancer: a combined analysis of studies of the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group

BACKGROUND

Associations between anemia and outcomes of chemoradiation have been documented in several malignancies, but few data exist for limited small-cell lung cancer (LD-SCLC). This combined analysis of 652 patients in two randomized clinical trials in LD-SCLC carried out by the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group was undertaken to explore the relationship between anemia at baseline and anemia arising during therapy, and outcomes of chemoradiation in this cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The relationships between overall survival and local control with hemoglobin levels at baseline and those arising during therapy (nadir hemoglobin (Hb) and maximum percentage drop from baseline values) were explored.

RESULTS

No Hb parameter was associated with either outcome. Baseline anemia was found in one-third of patients, was more common in males, in those with a poorer performance status and those with an elevated lactate dehydrogenase; all of these latter factors were associated with shorter survival. A trend towards improved local control in patients with the greatest drop in their Hb did not remain significant in a multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Anemia is common in patients with LD-SCLC. Anemia at diagnosis may have a different prognostic implication than that arising during therapy, and correction of anemia may have no impact on outcomes.

Fever associated with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia: a review of current therapeutic approaches

The numbers of cancer patients subjected to chemotherapy-induced neutropenia steadily grows as the new indications for systemic treatment expand. When these patients develop fever, or other signs of infection, they must receive immediate medical attention. This paper discusses the current therapeutic strategy for febrile neutropenia in cancer patients and reviews some of the newer approaches, which include empirical monotherapy, outpatient protocols, antibiotic prophylaxis and the use of haematopoietic growth factors.

IND.175: Phase I study of daily oral AZD2171, a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitor (VEGFRI), in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin (G/C) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (ANSCLC): A study of the NCIC Clinical Trials Group

7649

Background: AZD2171 is an oral an inhibitor of the tyrosine kinase activity of all VEGFR subtypes. Objectives: To determine recommended phase II dose (RPTD), dose limiting toxicity (DLT), toxicity, pharmacokinetics and efficacy of AZD2171 with G/C, in pts with untreated ANSCLC. Methods: Eligibility: stage IIIB/IV NSCLC; PS 0–2; no prior chemotherapy (CT) for advanced disease; adequate hematological, biochemical and end-organ function; no significant hemoptysis or bleeding. Treated stable brain metastases were permitted. G 1,250 mg/m2 day 1 & 8 and C 80 mg/m2 day 1 was given q3 weekly with AZD2171 starting day 2 cycle 1. Planned dose levels (DL) of AZD2171 were 30 and 45 mg once daily PK assayed in cycle 1&2, response (RECIST) every 2nd cycle. Results: 14 pts enrolled. 30 mg (5 pts) and 45 mg (9 pts). Pt characteristics (n=13) median age 56; 11 PS 0–1; 9 males. No DLTs seen in initial 3 pts at 30 mg dose; nor in 9 pts at 45 mg dose. Actual median dose intensity for AZD2171 in cycle 1 (C1) was similar to planned in C1 for both DL (200 mg and 300 mg)), but was higher for 30 mg vs 45 mg for subsequent cycles (150 mg vs 134 mg). At the 45 mg DL 13 dose reductions occurred in 9 pts. Grade 3 adverse events occurred in 2 of 3 30 mg pts (1 hypertension (HT), 1 fatigue); at 45 mg 6 pts of 9 pts had grade 3 events (HT, fatigue, diarrhea, voice changes); 2 pts had grade 4 toxicity (1 reversible CNS ischemia, 1 fatigue). PK: no effect of AZD2171 on gemcitabine PK Objective response: 9 pts are evaluable (4 too early At 30 mg-PR 2, SD 1; at 45 mg-PR 3, SD 3. 2 additional patients were accrued at the 30 mg DL. Conclusions: Toxicities of this combination are manageable and predictable. HT was easily controlled with a standardized treatment algorithm. MTD was not reached at the 30 or 45mg dose level, but 30mg of AZD2171 appears better tolerated in combination with G/C and is suggested as the RPTD. Encouraging anti-tumor activity has been observed which does not appear dose dependent at the doses tested.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Impact of induction chemotherapy and adjuvant radiation therapy on outcome after extrapleural pneumonectomy for malignant pleural mesothelioma

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Background: Examine the results of tri-modality therapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Methods: Protocol consisted of induction cisplatin-based chemotherapy, followed by extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) and adjuvant hemithoracic radiation therapy (RT) to 54 Gy. Results: A total of 60 patients were suitable candidates for tri-modality therapy between 01/2001 and 01/2007. Induction chemotherapy was administered to 56 patients; 4 patients underwent EPP without induction chemotherapy because of patient refusal (n=2), previous chemotherapy (n=1) and sarcomatoid MPM (n=1). Chemotherapy included vinorelbine/cisplatin (n=26), pemetrexed/cisplatin (n=26) and gemcitabine/cisplatin (n=4). EPP was performed in 47 patients; 13 patients did not undergo EPP because of tumor progression during chemotherapy (n=2), extensive chest wall involvement at surgery (n=6), or involvement of mediastinal lymph nodes at mediastinoscopy (n=5). Three patients (6%) died within 30 days of surgery. Pathological stage was II (n=6), III (n=35), and IV (n=6). Adjuvant RT was administered postoperatively to 36 patients and is ongoing in 5 patients; 6 patients did not receive adjuvant RT because of fatigue (n=5) or previous RT (n=1), and 4 patients did not complete RT up to 54 Gy. Overall survival for the 23 patients who completed the tri-modality therapy was 37% at 3 years with a median survival of 15 months. Eleven of the 23 patients had recurrence after a median of 8 months (range, 2–13 months). Recurrences were locoregional (n=2), in contralateral chest (n=3), abdomen (n=3), contralateral chest and abdomen (n=2), or pericardium (n=1). Among patients undergoing EPP, disease-free survival was longer in patients undergoing adjuvant high dose hemithoracic RT (p=0.07), in epithelial tumors (p=0.03), and in early stage (p=0.07). Overall survival was influenced by histology (p=0.007) and stage (p=0.05), but not by adjuvant high dose hemithoracic RT (p=0.5). The type of chemotherapy had no impact on disease-free and overall survival. Conclusions: Aggressive tri-modality therapy is feasible in selected patient with MPM. Adjuvant high dose hemithoracic RT can improve disease free survival and achieve good local control.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Transarterial chemoembolisation for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: results from a North American cancer centre

AIMS

In Asian countries, transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) has long been used for palliation of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) without strong evidence of improved survival or quality of life. In 2002, a survival benefi of TACE was shown in two randomised controlled trials in Europe and Hong Kong. The effectiveness of interventions fo HCC is influenced by geographical factors related to diverse patient characteristics and protocols. Therefore, the validation of TACE as palliative modality for unresectable HCC requires confirmation in diverse patient populations. The aim of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of TACE for HCC in a North American population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a single centre prospective cohort study. Child-Pugh A cirrhosis or better patients wit unresectable HCC and without radiological evidence of metastatic disease or segmental portal vein thrombosis wer assessed between November 2001 and May 2004. Of 54 patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria, 47 underwent 80 TACE sessions. Chemoembolisation was carried out using selective hepatic artery injection of 75 mg/m(2) doxorubicin and lipiodol followed by an injection of embolic particles when necessary. Repeat treatments were carried out at 2-3 month intervals for recurrent disease. The primary outcome was overall survival; secondary outcomes were morbidity and tumour response.

RESULTS

The survival probabilities at 1, 2 and 3 years were 76.6, 55.5 and 50%, respectively. At 6 months after the first intervention, 31% of patients had a partial response and 60% had stable disease by RECIST criteria. Minor adverse events occurred after 39% of TACEs and major adverse events after 20% of sessions, including two treatment-related deaths (4% of patients). One patient had complete cancer remission after undergoing three TACE treatments. Further progression of tumour growth was prevented in 91% of tumours at the 6 month point after the first TACE. At 3 months, serum levels of the tumour marker alpha-feto protein were significantly reduced in patients with elevated levels before TACE.

CONCLUSIONS

The survival probabilities at 1 and 2 years after TACE were comparable with results in randomised studies from Europe and Asia. Most patients tolerated TACE well, but clinicians need to be aware that moderately severe sideeffects require close monitoring and prompt intervention.

A phase II trial of oblimersen sodium (G3139) in combination with doxorubicin (DOX) in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NCI protocol # 5798

14072

Background: Advanced HCC is refractory to most standard forms of chemotherapy, however responses to DOX are seen. The bcl-2 protein confers resistance to apoptosis in cancer cells and is important in tumor progression and resistance to chemotherapy. The bcl-2 antisense oligonucleotide, G3139 (G), has been shown to enhance the activity of DOX in tumor models by blocking bcl-2 synthesis. This argues for evaluating G + DOX in combination in HCC. By decreasing tumor bcl-2 protein levels, HCC may be sensitized to the apoptotic effects of DOX. Methods: We completed a phase II trial evaluating treatment with G at 7 mg/ kg for 7 days cont. i.v. infusion (d1–8) plus DOX at 45 mg/m2 i.v. bolus d5, every 28 d (as determined from our phase I HCC study). Eligible patients (pts) had path-confirmed, measurable, advanced HCC. Minimal eligibility included Childs-Pugh A cirrhosis, adequate hematological (hem) parameters and ECOG PS <2. Tumor biopsies for correlative studies were obtained at baseline and cycle 1 d 4 in consenting pts. Results: 19 patients were accrued, 1 was ineligible, 18 evaluable for toxicity, 17 evaluable for response; receiving a median (med) of 2 cycles (range 1,10). Risk for HCC was 39% HBV, 22% HCV, 17% alcohol, 22% other. Most common toxicities were hem and could be attributed to both G+DOX and to G alone. Overall grade 3–4 toxicities seen were: ANC- 67% (med nadir d 24–25), lymphopenia - 44%, thrombocytopenia - 6%, transaminitis - 33% and grade 1–2 G-fever - 67%. No responses were seen and the trial was stopped at stage 1. Six patients (35%) had stable disease, with one pt completing 10 cycles as per protocol (pt # 22). Med TTP is 1.8 months (1.7-NA) and 6-month PFS is 17.2% (5.3–56.4). 18 of 19 pts have died with med OS of only 5.4 months (2.7–11.6). Correlative studies on 3 available pts’ paired tumor biopsies showed absent baseline bcl-2 expression but moderate expression of both bcl-xl and BAX protein and with no change after exposure to G (includes pt #22). Conclusions: G + DOX is inactive in HCC at this dose and schedule. The overlap of hem toxicity may have resulted in suboptimal DOX dosing in HCC. Low baseline bcl-2 tumor expression relative to bcl-xl seen may suggest a relative insensitivity to the effects of bcl-2 inhibition in these HCC tumors.

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Compliance of adjuvant chemotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); No longer an issue

7154

Background: Poor compliance has been a common feature in clinical trials of adjuvant chemotherapy for NSCLC with only 48%-69% of patients completing all planned cycles. This may have been due to lack of perceived benefit by patients and physicians and toxicity of the regimens employed. We retrospectively evaluated compliance and toxicity of platinum-based chemotherapy in the two years following the recent reports of successful adjuvant chemotherapy trials for NSCLC. Methods: Following institutional ethics approval, patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy after complete resection of NSCLC between May 2003 and May 2005 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were identified using an institutional cancer registry. Patient demographics, ECOG status, stage, pathologic subtype and type of surgery were recorded. The number of chemotherapy cycles, delays, dose reductions and change of chemotherapy were all reported. Results: A total of 50 patients were identified. The median age was 62. 38% were stage I, 18% stage II, 30% stage III and 14% had multiple primary tumors of variable stages. 20% were ECOG PS2 and the rest ECOG 0–1. Only 12% had undergone pnemonectomy. 41 patients (82%) started cisplatin /vinorelbine (3 switched to carboplatin because of nephrotoxicity, and one switched to carboplatin/paclitaxel because of fatigue and vomiting). 3 patients received other cisplatin-based combinations. 6 received carboplatin-based treatment (one because of advanced age, one because of cardiac dysfunction and 4 because of preexisting neuropathy). 80% completed all treatment. 40% required dose reduction. 58% required delays in treatment. 6 events of febrile neutropenia were reported in 5 patients. 7 patients required admission. There were no toxic deaths. Multivariate analysis showed no effect of age, gender, extent of surgery or ECOG status on compliance, need for treatment modification or toxicity. Conclusions: Compared to historical trials, adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy for resected NSCLC is well tolerated and is now accepted by patients and physicians with a high degree of compliance.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II trial of preoperative (POP) irinotecan (I) + cisplatin (C) and radiotherapy for esophageal cancer

4056

Background: Esophagectomy (E) for locally advanced esophageal cancer (LAEC) yields limited survival; this phase II trial assess feasibility and efficacy of induction chemo-radiotherapy followed by E. Methods: Patients (pts) with LAEC of the thoracic esophagus (TE) or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ), ECOG PS ≤ 2 and surgical candidates underwent POP I (65mg/m2) + C (30mg/m2) on weeks 1,2,4,5,7,8 + concurrent conformal radiotherapy (40Gy/20 fractions (F) during wk 4–7) and external beam boost (10Gy/5F on wk 8); E was performed on wk 12–16 after restaging. Pts receiving 75% of POP chemotherapy were eligible for pathologic (p) evaluation; planned sample size 36 nonM1A pts. Results: 52 pts enrolled from 11/02 to 12/05, mean age 60 yr (33–79), male:40, GEJ:TE/15:37; 37 adenocarcinoma, 13 SCC, 2 other; 13 pts were stage IIA, 7 IIB, 22 III, and 10 IVA. Toxicity during POP treatment included ANC (G3/4:36%), febrile neutropenia (9%), diarrhea (G3:9%), nausea (G3:6%), esophagitis (G3:2%) and anorexia (G3/4:15%); 3 pts stopped treatment due to toxicity, 2 withdrew, 2 progressed becoming non-operable, 1 died of a stroke and 1 from central line sepsis. Clinical response by RECIST was CR:2%, PR:30%, SD:62% and PD in 6%. Dysphagia improved or resolved in 34/47 pts (72%) during POP treatment. Of 43 evaluable pts, 41 underwent E, achieving R0 resection in 98% (1 refused E, 1 pending). Perioperative complications included anastomotic leak (23%), Afib (21%), pneumonia (21%), delirium (10%) and aspiration (10%); 1 pt died from aspiration. 7 pts (17%) achieved pCR, 2 of whom were pretreatment clinical stage IIA, 1 IIb and 4 III; downstaging occurred in 3/7 pts; 15 pts (36.6%) achieved minimal residual disease, 15 (36.6%) pPR, and 4 (9.8%) pSD. At a median (med) follow-up of 15.2 months (1.3–34.5m), 16/52 patients died (med & 2yr overall survival (OS) of 29 m & 66%). Of 41 resected pts, 17 recurred (med & 2yr disease free survival (DFS) of 20m & 46%) of whom 10 died of progression (med & 2-yr OS of 29m & 68.4%). 2yr DFS & OS was 83% & 86% in pCR vs 41% & 76% in non-pCR. Conclusion: In LAEC, induction I/C and radiotherapy followed by E is associated with 72% dysphagia improvement, a significant but manageable toxicity profile, and encouraging survival compared to historical controls.

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The potential for lost productivity in lung cancer patients

6093

Background: Lung cancer significantly impacts on a patient’s personal and professional life. Little is known about lung cancer patients’ lost productivity, which in turn has an important effect on society. We undertook this descriptive study to learn about lost productivity experienced by lung cancer patients and their caregivers. Methods: 40 consecutive patients attending outpatient lung clinics at a major cancer centre completed questionnaires assessing demographic details, patient and caregiver productivity, and quality of life (EQ5D, FACT-L). Results: 52.5% of respondents were male. Median age was 67 years (range 36 -81). Median disclosed income was $20,000–$39,999; 46.2% had pursued post-secondary training. 70% were ex-smokers, 40% had NSCLC, 27% SCLC, while a third did not know their diagnosis. Treatments received included IV chemotherapy (62.5%), oral therapy (20%), radiation (55%), surgery (42.5%) and 5% no treatment. Over 25% were working full-time prior to diagnosis, 40% were retired. None were able to continue full-time employment; 20% required disability or sick leave. 8 (20%) were able to work part-time. Of those still working, a median of 14 h were missed due to illness in the preceding 3 weeks, with a median of 32 h worked in that period. Patients reported an overall moderate (5/10) impact on their productivity and a significant (6/10) impact on their daily activities attributable to their cancer. Only 8.5% of patients received paid assistance, while 76% had their spouse, relative or friend as an unpaid caregiver. In the preceding 3 weeks, caregivers who assisted patients provided a median 24h of care; 25% of caregivers missed a median 12h of work. Overall, mobility, self-care and anxiety/depression were rated as mildly affected (1/3), while daily activities and pain/discomfort were rated as moderately affected (2/3). Median overall health state rated by the respondents was 60 {scale 0(worst)-100(best)}. Quality of life overall was poor - FACT-L median score was 93.2 (range 50 to 125). Conclusion: Lung cancer negatively impacts work productivity and significantly impairs activity. While many lung cancer patients are retired, there is a significant burden on caregivers, which may result in a substantial burden to society in lost productivity.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Mental health and vitality among Canadian women with physical disabilities

This study investigated scores for mental health and vitality in a large community-based sample of women with physical disabilities. The scores from two subscales of the SF-36 were collected from 1,096 women with physical disabilities through a mailed survey regarding health and well-being. These scores were compared to normative data using t tests. The mean scores of the vitality subscale were significantly lower than that of the normed sample when analyzed by age groups. The mental health scores were significantly lower as well, except for one age group (65-74 yr.). These results suggest that health care workers should address aspects of mental health and energy when caring for women with physical disabilities, as these areas are often overlooked in this population. Health promotion programs aimed at these topics should be designed specifically for this population as well.

The palliative benefit of irinotecan in 5-fluorouracil-refractory colorectal cancer: its prospective evaluation by a Multicenter Canadian Trial

Most patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) who have failed initial 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy have worsening of disease-related symptoms (DRS) and quality of life (QOL). Irinotecan has a reported response rate of 10%-20% in such patients. The aim of this phase II trial was to prospectively determine the palliative benefit of irinotecan utilizing DRS as primary endpoints of response. Patients had advanced CRC refractory to 5-FU with at least 1 DRS defined as (1) Karnofsky performance status (KPS) 60%-80%, (2) baseline analgesic use > or = 10 mg morphine/day (or equivalent), or (3) disease-related pain score > 1 cm on a 10-cm linear analogue self-assessment (LASA) scale. Patients received irinotecan 125 mg/m2 weekly for 4 weeks on an every-6-weeks schedule. The primary endpoint was palliative response defined as > or = 50% decrease in pain score or analgesic usage, or 10% increase in KPS, from baseline for 4 weeks. QOL was assessed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) version 2 instrument. A total of 65 patients were entered onto the study. Median baseline parameters were KPS 70%, analgesic score 11 mg/day, and pain score 2.4 cm. A palliative response was achieved in 27 patients (42%), improvement in pain score predominated. LASA and EORTC QLQ-C30 instruments showed parallel changes in DRS. The radiological response rate was 11% (complete responses and partial responses, n = 46); 23 patients achieved stable disease. Median overall survival was 7.2 months. Irinotecan provides a rate of palliative benefit higher than the radiological response rate. Patients-oriented palliative endpoints can be useful in assessing the benefit of agents in early-phase clinical trials.

Metallothionein expression in patients with small cell carcinoma of the lung: correlation with other molecular markers and clinical outcome

BACKGROUND

Patients with small cell carcinoma of the lung (SCLC) are known to have an extremely poor prognosis, with a 5-year survivor rate of only 5%. Chemotherapeutic drug resistance is a major obstacle to curative therapy in patients with SCLC.

METHODS

The authors evaluated retrospectively the expression of metallothionen (MT), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), p53, and retinoblastoma gene product (RBGP) in biopsy samples from 58 patients with SCLC prior to standard chemotherapy. The objective was to study the correlation between MT and other molecular markers in SCLC and correlate these data with the clinical outcome of patients. The authors studied 28 short-term survivors (STS; survival < 24 months) and 30 long-term survivors (LTS; survival > 24 months).

RESULTS

In line with expectations, the authors found a strong inverse association between stage and survival. Of 58 patients with SCLC, 26 patients (45%; 17 STS and 9 LTS) showed MT expression, 55 patients (94%; 28 STS and 27 LTS) were positive for PCNA, 28 patients (48%; 16 STS and 12 LTS) were positive for p53, and only 6 patients (10%; 1 STS and 5 LTS) showed positivity for RBGP. On comparing the percent positivity of various markers in the two survivor groups, there was greater frequency of expression of MT, PCNA, and p53 and lower RBGP expression in the STS group compared with the LTS group. However, only the difference in expression of MT between the two survivor groups was statistically significant (Fisher exact test; P = 0.034). Multivariable analysis using a logistic regression model showed a significant association between MT expression and patient survival after adjusting for disease stage (chi-square test; P = 0.022). There was also a statistically significant association between MT expression and p53 expression (chi-square test; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, of the molecular markers studied, the authors demonstrated that only MT overexpression was independently predictive of short-term survival in patients with SCLC undergoing chemotherapy.

Pretreatment motivational enhancement therapy for eating disorders: a pilot study

Eating disorder patients are notoriously ambivalent about treatment and often lack motivation to change. These characteristics may decrease the number of patients entering treatment and increase the number of patients dropping out of treatment prematurely.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this pilot study was to develop and evaluate a motivational enhancement therapy (MET) group program for eating disorder patients. The goal of the MET intervention was to increase participants' motivation to change, which might be expected to increase the success of future treatment of patients with eating disorders.

METHOD

Nineteen individuals who were referred for specialized treatment took part in the study. The intervention was based on existing literature in the field of addictions and modified for eating disorders.

RESULTS

The motivational measures suggested that the participants' motivation to change increased following the intervention. A decrease in depressive symptoms and an increase in self-esteem were also found.

DISCUSSION

The results of this study suggest that MET could be valuable for the treatment of eating disorder patients and provide a rationale to conduct further research in this area.

Randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial comparing clinafloxacin with imipenem as empirical monotherapy for febrile granulocytopenic patients

In a double-blind, multicenter trial, 541 febrile granulocytopenic patients were randomized to receive either intravenous (iv) clinafloxacin (200 mg every 12 h) or i.v. imipenem (500 mg every 6 h) as empirical monotherapy. More baseline pathogens were susceptible to clinafloxacin (259 [99%] of 262 organisms) than to imipenem (253 [95%] of 265; P=.03). Initial favorable clinical response rates for clinafloxacin (88 [32%] of 272 patients) and imipenem (89 [33%] of 269) were similar. After addition of other antimicrobial agents, overall response rates were 259 (95%) of 272 for clinafloxacin and 251 (93%) of 269 for imipenem. During the study, only 13 clinafloxacin (5%) and 18 imipenem (7%) recipients died. Both drugs were generally well tolerated. Drug-related skin rash occurred more often with clinafloxacin (11% vs. 6%; P=.07), whereas nausea (2% vs. 5%; P=.16), Clostridium-difficile-associated diarrhea (3% vs. 8%; P=.02), and seizures (0% vs. 2%; P=.06) occurred more often with imipenem. These results suggest that clinafloxacin and imipenem have similar efficacy as empirical monotherapy in febrile granulocytopenic patients.

Meropenem versus ceftazidime in the treatment of cancer patients with febrile neutropenia: a randomized, double-blind trial

PURPOSE

To compare meropenem, a carbapenem antibiotic, with ceftazidime for the empirical treatment of patients with febrile neutropenia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective, double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted at medical centers in North America and the Netherlands. A total of 411 cancer patients (196 treated with meropenem and 215 treated with ceftazidime), who had 471 episodes of fever, participated in the trial. For each neutropenic episode, patients were allocated at random to receive intravenous administration of meropenem (1 g every 8 hours) or ceftazidime (2 g every 8 hours). Treatment could be modified at any time. Key end points were clinical and bacteriologic outcomes, eradication of infecting organism, and adverse events.

RESULTS

The rate of successful clinical response at the end of therapy was significantly higher for patients treated with meropenem than for those on ceftazidime for all episodes (54% v 44%, respectively) and for episodes of fever of unknown origin (62% v 46%, respectively), but differences between groups were not statistically significant for clinically defined or microbiologically defined infections. Meropenem was significantly more effective than ceftazidime in severely neutropenic (</= 100 cells/microliter) patients (55% v 43%, respectively), bone marrow transplant patients (73% v 27%, respectively), and patients given antibiotic prophylaxis before study entry (71% v 52%, respectively). Common adverse effects of meropenem and ceftazidime therapy were rash, diarrhea, and nausea and vomiting.

CONCLUSION

Monotherapy with meropenem represents a suitable choice for initial empirical antibiotic therapy for febrile episodes in neutropenic cancer patients.

Chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis. Prevention and management

Oral mucositis is a frequent and potentially severe complication of chemotherapy which has a considerable impact on patient quality of life. While the management of other chemotherapy-related toxicities has improved, the incidence of mucositis is increasing. A critical review of the literature published between 1985 and 1999 reveals very few strategies or agents with proven efficacy, leaving few recommendations for the standard care in the prevention and treatment of mucositis at this time. Recommendations that can be made include: reducing patient risk factors, implementing proven preventative interventions such as utilising oral ice chips with fluorouracil chemotherapy, and optimising supportive care practices individualised to the patients' needs and symptoms. Progress in understanding the pathophysiology of mucositis at the molecular level has led to the evaluation of a number of new investigational agents, specifically those directed to the epithelial mucosa, such as mitogens and epithelial growth factors. These appear to be very promising in preclinical studies. Randomised clinical trials with these agents may finally demonstrate an impact on the clinical practice of mucositis management in the coming years.

Multinational cooperation in trials and guidelines dealing with febrile neutropenia

Multinational cooperation has lead to many of the advances in the therapy of cancer patients with febrile neutropenia over the last two decades and will likely continue to do so. Some of the groups and societies that have contributed to this success include the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Antimicrobial Group, The Immunocompromised Host Society (ICHS), the Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) infection subcommittee and the International Disease Society of America (IDSA). Some of these contributions are described in this manuscript. Without this approach the data from single institutions may not have been so well accepted in centers all over the world. Multinational cooperation in this field along with better antimicrobials have contributed significantly to the drop in mortality in 'high risk patients' from >50% in the 1950s and 1960s to 5-10% noted in most recently published studies.

The Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer risk index: A multinational scoring system for identifying low-risk febrile neutropenic cancer patients

PURPOSE

Febrile neutropenia remains a potentially life-threatening complication of anticancer chemotherapy, but some patients are at low risk for serious medical complications. The purpose of this study was to develop an internationally validated scoring system to identify these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Febrile neutropenic cancer patients were observed in a prospective multinational study. Independent factors assessable at fever onset, predicting low risk of complications, on a randomly selected derivation set, were assigned integer weights to develop a risk-index score, which was subsequently tested on a validation set.

RESULTS

On the derivation set (756 patients), predictive factors were a burden of illness indicating absence of symptoms or mild symptoms (weight, 5; odds ratio [OR], 8.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.15 to 16.38) or moderate symptoms (weight, 3; OR, 3.70; 95% CI, 2.18 to 6.29); absence of hypotension (weight, 5; OR, 7.62; 95% CI, 2.91 to 19.89); absence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (weight, 4; OR, 5. 35; 95% CI, 1.86 to 15.46); presence of solid tumor or absence of previous fungal infection in patients with hematologic malignancies (weight, 4; OR, 5.07; 95% CI, 1.97 to 12.95); outpatient status (weight, 3; OR, 3.51; 95% CI, 2.02 to 6.04); absence of dehydration (weight, 3; OR, 3.81; 95% CI, 1.89 to 7.73); and age less than 60 years (weight, 2; OR, 2.45; 95% CI, 1.51 to 4.01). On the validation set, a Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer risk-index score >/= 21 identified low-risk patients with a positive predictive value of 91%, specificity of 68%, and sensitivity of 71%.

CONCLUSION

The risk index accurately identifies patients at low risk for complications and may be used to select patients for testing therapeutic strategies that may be more convenient or cost-effective.

Differential expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer

In a comprehensive immunohistochemical study of the expression of ten metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their four inhibitors (TIMPs) in 115 non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs), the findings have been correlated with the histological and clinical features of the tumours. All MMPs and TIMPs were expressed in tumours, with frequencies ranging from 41% for MMP-2 to 68% for MMP-13. Stromal immunoreactivity ranged from 6% for TIMP-4 to 87% for MMP-13. In some tumours, an overexpression of these proteins, as revealed by stronger staining in cancer cells than in adjacent normal bronchial epithelium, was also observed. The frequency ranged from 1% for MMP-3 to 28% for MMP-13. Compared with squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC), adenocarcinoma (AdC) more frequently overexpressed MMP-1, -11, -13, -14, and TIMP-2, and TIMP-1 and/or TIMP-2 overexpression positively correlated with more advanced stage disease. None of the MMP or TIMP expression correlated with the ras genotype of the tumours. The higher frequency of MMP overexpression in AdC than in SqCC may relate to the greater tendency of the former for systemic metastasis. The association of TIMP-1 overexpression with more advanced disease may suggest a role in prognosis.