Is Programmed Death Ligand 1(PD-L1) Expression in Vulvar Cancer Prognostic for Locoregional Control?

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Vulvar cancer is a rare female genital neoplasm in which surgery and radiotherapy play an integral role in the treatment paradigm; however, locoregional recurrence remains the predominant pattern of failure. Little is known about the impact of PD-L1 status in vulvar cancer and its value for clinical outcomes and response prediction to immunotherapy. We sought to explore clinical outcomes of patients with positive PD-L1 expression in vulvar cancer.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Single-institution retrospective analysis of patients with surgically resectable invasive vulvar carcinoma from 2001-2021 was performed. Patients with locally advanced disease not amendable to upfront surgery or de novo metastatic disease were excluded. Immunohistochemical PD-L1 expression was assessed using the Combined Positive Score (CPS) with positive expression defined as ≥1, and Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) with positive expression defined as ≥1%. Survival and disease control outcomes were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier Method with log-rank t-test. Multivariable analysis was conducted using a parsimonious cox regression analysis using forward conditional selection.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients were identified with a median age of 69 years old (IQR: 59-78), 54% (n = 46) FIGO stage I-II, 97% (n = 82) squamous cell carcinoma histology, 41% (n = 35) p16 positive status, 74% (n = 63) without a history of lichen sclerosis, 40% (n = 34) without co-existing vulvar intraepithelial neoplasm (VIN), and 49% (n = 42) treated with surgery alone. There were 72% (n = 61) with positive PD-L1 TPS (≥1%), and 81% (n = 69) with positive PD-L1 CPS (≥1) expression. The median follow up was 49 months (IQR: 21-75 months). The 5-year OS was 79% (95% CI, 70%-89%), DFS 55% (95% CI, 43%-67%), local control (LC) 59% (95% CI, 47%-72%), regional control (RC) 86% (95% CI, 78%-94%), and distant metastasis (DM) 96% (95% CI, 92%-100%). PD-L1 expression was associated with lower LC and DFS by TPS ≥1%. The 5-year LC of 82% (95% CI, 65%-98%) for PD-L1 negative versus 50% (95% CI, 34%-65%) positive disease (p = 0.03). The 5-year DFS was 77% (95% CI, 59%-95%) for PD-L1 negative versus 46% (95% CI, 31%-61%) positive disease (p = 0.03). No significant DFS or LC difference was noted by CPS levels ≥1. No significant difference was observed for RC, DM, or OS. On multivariable analysis, PD-L1 TPS remained a significant predictor for LC (HR = 3.01, 95% CI, 1.07-8.95, p = 0.04). No significant difference in DFS was observed for PD-L1 TPS on multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSION

PD-L1 expression is associated with higher rates of local recurrence and may represents a potentially important actionable target independent of p16 status to improve the predominant pattern of relapse in this uncommon malignancy.

The role of adjuvant treatment for early-stage uterine clear cell carcinomas

BACKGROUND

Uterine clear cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive subtype of endometrial carcinoma. Prospective clinical trials have not been feasible for this rare tumor, and data regarding the optimal adjuvant treatment regimen for early-stage uterine clear cell carcinomas is limited. Our study's objective was to determine if adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy improves patients' outcomes in stage I and II uterine clear cell carcinoma.

METHODS

Patients with stage I and II uterine clear cell carcinoma were identified at a single institution. All cases were reviewed by a gynecologic pathologist. Both pure and mixed non-serous uterine clear cell carcinomas were included. Primary outcomes were recurrence free survival and overall survival.

RESULTS

A total of 71 patients were identified including 39 (55%) pure and 32 (45%) mixed clear cell carcinoma. Most patients were FIGO stage IA (77.5%). Most patients (n = 58, 82%) received adjuvant therapy, including 43 (61%) receiving chemotherapy, 50 (70%) receiving radiation therapy, and 35 (49%) receiving both. Recurrence free survival was not significantly different among patients receiving no or <6 cycles of chemotherapy versus patients receiving 6 cycles of chemotherapy (p = 0.39). However, median OS was significantly different among patients receiving no or <6 cycles of chemotherapy versus 6 cycles of chemotherapy (p = 0.004). On univariable analysis, 6 cycles of chemotherapy was significantly associated with improved OS (HR 0.1, 95% CI 0.01-0.07). Presence of LVSI, mutated p53, number of pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes assessed, adjuvant chemotherapy (any number of cycles), and >2 medical co-morbidities were not significant predictors of OS on univariable analysis. On multivariable analysis, 6 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy remained a significant predictor of improved OS (HR 0.1, 95% CI 0.01-0.8).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, administration of 6 cycles of chemotherapy appears to significantly improve OS. This finding suggests consideration of 6 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with early-stage uterine clear cell carcinoma, however clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.

An International Registry of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Appendiceal Goblet Cell Carcinoma Treated with Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

PURPOSE

Peritoneal carcinomatosis from appendiceal goblet cell carcinoma (A-GCC) is a rare and aggressive form of appendiceal tumor. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intra peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was reported as an interesting alternative regarding survival compared to surgery without HIPEC and/or systemic chemotherapy. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of CRS and HIPEC for patients presenting A-GCC through an international registry.

METHODS

A prospective multicenter international database was retrospectively searched to identify all patients with A-GCC tumor and peritoneal metastases who underwent CRS and HIPEC through the Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI). The post-operative complications, long-term results, and principal prognostic factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

The analysis included 83 patients. After a median follow-up of 47 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 34.6 months. The 3- and 5-year OS was 48.5% and 35.7%, respectively. Patients who underwent complete macroscopic CRS had a significantly better survival than those treated with incomplete CRS. The 5-year OS was 44% and 0% for patients who underwent complete, and incomplete CRS, respectively (HR 9.65, p < 0.001). Lymph node involvement and preoperative chemotherapy were also predictive of a worse prognosis. There were 3 postoperative deaths, and 30% of the patients had major complications.

CONCLUSION

CRS and HIPEC may increase long-term survival in selected patients with peritoneal metastases of A-GCC origin, especially when complete CRS is achieved. Ideally, randomized control trials or more retrospective data are needed to confirm CRS and HIPEC as the gold standard in this pathology.

Early outcomes after definitive chemoradiation therapy with Vienna/Venezia hybrid high-dose rate brachytherapy applicators for cervical cancer: A single-institution experience

PURPOSE

The Vienna and Venezia (Elekta) are hybrid intracavitary/interstitial brachytherapy (BT) applicators for cervical cancers unsuitable for intracavitary BT alone to improve target coverage or reduce critical organ dose. There is limited outcome data with the use of these applicators outside published experience of the EMBRACE group. We report feasibility and early outcomes with the use of these hybrid applicators at our institution.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Hybrid applicators were used to treat 61 patients with cervical cancer from November 2011 to December 2019. Indications for hybrid applicator use were involvement of the vagina in 10 patients (16%), residual central or parametrial disease in 46 patients (75%), and a narrow introitus in 5 patients (9%). Toxicities were graded using the CTCAE v4.0. Outcomes were assessed with the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 16 months (IQR 9-32 mos). Median HRCTV volume was 31.6 cm³ (IQR 25-48 cm³). Median HRCTV D90 was 86.1 Gy (IQR 84.3-88.0 Gy). In 54 patients with follow-up PET/CT at 3 months, complete initial imaging response locally was seen in 46 patients.Estimated 12-month Kaplan-Meier overall survival, locoregional control, distant control, and recurrence-free survival estimates were 86.9%, 80.6%, 73.8%, and 65.9%, respectively. The 12-month incidence of Grade 3+ GI/GU chronic toxicities was 5.7%, consisting of vesicovaginal fistula, rectovaginal fistula, and ureterovesical fistula.

CONCLUSIONS

Our single-institution data support the use of the hybrid applicators, as an alternative to traditional BT applicators when clinically warranted. Use of hybrid applicators is feasible with adequate coverage of disease in the vagina and parametrium.

Assessment of hot flushes and vaginal dryness among obese women undergoing bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

Menopausal symptoms are associated with a negative impact on the quality of life, leading women to seek medical treatment. Obesity has been linked to higher levels of menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes. This assessment will explore whether the prevalence and bother of hot flushes and vaginal dryness change from pre- to post-bariatric surgery among obese midlife women.

METHODS

This study is a longitudinal analysis of data from 69 women (ages 35-72 years) undergoing bariatric surgery with reported reproductive histories and menopausal symptoms at preoperative and 6-month postoperative visits. Prevalence of and degree of bother of hot flushes and vaginal dryness at pre- and post-surgery were compared using McNemar's test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS

The reported degree of bother of symptoms associated with hot flushes decreased from pre- to post-surgery (p < 0.01). There was no significant change in the prevalence of hot flushes or vaginal dryness in the overall study sample.

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of bother of symptoms associated with hot flushes among midlife women may decrease after bariatric surgery. These results highlight important secondary gains, including less bothersome menopausal symptoms, for women who choose bariatric surgery for weight loss.

Immunobiology of human mucin 1 in a preclinical ovarian tumor model

Epithelial ovarian cancer is an aggressive malignancy, with a low 5-year median survival. Continued improvement on the development of more effective therapies depends in part on the availability of adequate preclinical models for in vivo testing of treatment efficacy. Mucin 1 (MUC1) glycoprotein is a tumor-associated antigen overexpressed in ovarian cancer cells, making it a potential target for immune therapy. To create a preclinical mouse model for MUC1-positive ovarian tumors, we generated triple transgenic (Tg) mice that heterozygously express human MUC1(+/-) as a transgene, and carry the conditional K-rasG12D oncoallele (loxP-Stop-loxP-K-ras(G12D/+)) and the floxed Pten gene (Pten/(loxP/loxP)). Injection of Cre recombinase-encoding adenovirus (AdCre) in the ovarian bursa of triple (MUC1KrasPten) Tg mice triggers ovarian tumors that, in analogy to human ovarian cancer, express strongly elevated MUC1 levels. The tumors metastasize loco-regionally and are accompanied by high serum MUC1, closely mimicking the human disease. Compared with the KrasPten mice with tumors, the MUC1KrasPten mice show increased loco-regional metastasis and augmented accumulation of CD4+Foxp3+ immune-suppressive regulatory T cells. Vaccination of MUC1KrasPten mice with type 1 polarized dendritic cells (DC1) loaded with a MUC1 peptide (DC1-MUC1) can circumvent tumor-mediated immune suppression in the host, activate multiple immune effector genes and effectively prolong survival. Our studies report the first human MUC1-expressing, orthotopic ovarian tumor model, reveal novel MUC1 functions in ovarian cancer biology and demonstrate its suitability as a target for immune-based therapies.

Pharmacokinetic study of pegylated liposomal CKD-602 (S-CKD602) in patients with advanced malignancies

S-CKD602 is a pegylated liposomal formulation of CKD-602. This study is the first to evaluate the factors affecting the high interpatient variability in the pharmacokinetic disposition of S-CKD602. S-CKD602 was administered intravenously (i.v.) every 3 weeks as part of a phase I study. Pharmacokinetics studies of the liposomal encapsulated and released CKD-602 in plasma were performed. The pharmacokinetic variability of S-CKD602 is associated with both linear and nonlinear clearances. Patients > or =60 years of age have a 2.7-fold higher exposure of S-CKD602 as compared with patients <60 years of age (P = 0.02). Patients with a lean body composition have a higher plasma exposure of S-CKD602 (P = 0.02). Patients who have received prior therapy with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) have a 2.2-fold higher exposure of S-CKD602 as compared with patients who have not received PLD (P = 0.045). Prolonged exposure of the encapsulated drug in plasma over 1-2 weeks provides significant pharmacologic advantages. The high interpatient variability in the pharmacokinetic disposition of S-CKD602 was associated with age, body composition, saturable clearance, and prior PLD therapy.

Randomized phase III study of canfosfamide (C, TLK286) plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) versus PLD as second-line therapy in platinum (P) refractory or resistant ovarian cancer (OC)

5552

Background: Canfosfamide (C) is a glutathione analog prodrug activated by glutathione S-transferase P1–1. C is synergistic with PLD and PLD increases the expression of GST P1–1 and sensitivity to C in OC cells. Methods: 244 pts were planned with P refractory or resistant (progression within 6 mos. after P) OC following ≤ 2 P regimens, and measurable disease (RECIST). Pts received C at 1,000 mg/m2 and PLD at 50 mg/m2 IV or PLD at 50mg/m2 q4wks until tumor progression. Randomization was stratified by ECOG PS, best prior P response and bulky disease (≥ 5cm). Results: This multinational study randomized 125 pts until June 4, 2007 when the study was temporarily placed on clinical hold to review another C trial. The 65/60 pts were well-balanced for disease characteristics and received a median 3/3.5 cycles per patient (range 1–11/0–17) of C + PLD/PLD, 35 pts (21/14) discontinued study treatment(s) due to the hold, respectively. Most common adverse events (AEs) for C + PLD were hematologic at 66% vs. 44% for PLD and were manageable with dose reductions. Non-hematologic AEs were similar for both arms, except the incidence of Grade 2–3 Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia (PPE) (9% vs. 21%) and stomatitis (17% vs. 23%) was lower and less severe with C+PLD vs. PLD. Grade 4 PPE (2%) was only observed on the PLD arm. Overall median PFS, the primary endpoint, was 5.6 mos. for C + PLD and 3.7 mos. for PLD (p = 0.7243, HR = 0.92). Objective response rate (ORR) by RECIST was 12.3% for C + PLD vs. 8.3% for PLD. In a planned analysis, 75 pts (40 /35) who were P refractory or primary P resistant observed a median PFS of 5.6 mos. for C + PLD vs. 2.9 mos. for PLD (p = 0.0425, HR = 0.55). ORR for C + PLD was 15.0% (with 1 CR) vs. 5.7% for PLD. Stable disease was observed 42.5% on C + PLD and 37.1% on PLD; median duration of SD was 7.4 mos. and 4.1 mos., respectively (p = 0.0439, HR = 0.49). The median time to response was 2.8 mos. on C + PLD vs. 4.8 mos. on PLD. Conclusions: The overall PFS showed a positive but not statistically significant trend for C +PLD vs. PLD. In the P refractory or primary P resistant population, the median PFS was significantly longer for C+PLD than PLD alone. C may ameliorate the AEs of stomatitis and PPE known to be associated with PLD.

[Table: see text]

Clinical outcome in patients with endometrial papillary serous and endometrioid carcinomas as related to WT-1, Pax-2, and p16 immunohistochemical expression profiles

e16547

Background: Endometrial papillary serous carcinoma (EPS) can be difficult to differentiate histologically from high grade endometrial endometrioid carcinoma (EE). Both of these tumors often present with solid growth pattern with few papillary features. Recurrences have been found to be more frequent in EPS than high grade EE. These differences were found despite the same preoperative and postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy, indicating more aggressive tumor biology. To date, there are no well defined immunophenotypic or molecular methods to differentiate these two tumors or their clinical behavior. Methods: Eleven cases of EE and twenty-three cases of EPS were retrieved from our departmental archives and stained using Pax-2, WT-1 and p16 antibodies. For all three antibodies, a strong nuclear staining is considered positive. The intensity and proportion of cells positive are noted. Seven cases from each group were further examined for their staging and clinical outcome in terms of recurrence, metastasis and treatment. Results: WT-1 is negative in 100% of EE cases. p16 is positive in 95% of EPS cases, and only 55% of EE cases. In addition, out of the seven EPS patients whose clinical information was obtained, the three EPS patients who had strong Pax-2 staining are still alive more than two years status post surgical intervention, while four other EPS patients are deceased. The three patients with the strongly staining PAX-2 EPS tumors all had varying tumor characteristics, recurrence and adjuvant therapies. This finding is now being evaluated in the additional cases. Conclusions: WT-1, Pax-2 and p16 are useful to differentiate high grade EE and EPS cases. Strong Pax-2 staining in three cases of EPS with better outcome is an interesting finding that deserves further investigation.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Population pharmacokinetics of pegylated liposomal CKD-602 (S-CKD602) in patients with advanced solid tumors

2545

Background: CKD-602, a semi-synthetic analogue of campothecin, is a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor. S-CKD602, a PEGylated long-circulating liposomal formulation of CKD-602, was developed to achieve a longer intra-tumoral exposure of CKD602 and a higher therapeutic index. Age and body composition were reported to affect the pharmacokinetics (PK) of S- CKD602 (Zamboni, ASCO'07). A population PK model for encapsulated and released CKD-602 following administration of S- CKD602 was developed to assess factors that may influence S-CKD602 PK. Methods: Plasma samples from 45 patients (pts) with solid tumors were collected in a phase I study. S-CKD602 was administered as a 1 h IV infusion with doses ranging from 0.1 to 2.5 mg/m2. Plasma concentrations of encapsulated (n=292) and released (n=268) CKD-602 were measured by LC-MS/MS, and population PK modeling was performed using NONMEM. Results: Pts were classified as linear and nonlinear pts according to the clearance (CL) of encapsulated CKD-602 using a classic two stage PK modeling approach. Mean ± SD ratio of total body weight to ideal body weight of pts with linear and nonlinear CL of encapsulated CKD-602 was 1.13 ± 0.16 and 1.53 ± 0.29, respectively (P = 0.003). PK of encapsulated CKD-602 was described by 1-compartment model with nonlinear CL (Michaelis-Menten kinetics). PK of released CKD-602 was described by a 2- compartment model with linear CL for all pts. The presence of primary or metastatic tumor(s) located in the liver decreased the inter- individual variability (IIV) in the CL of encapsulated CKD-602 by 13%. Typical values of Vmax of encapsulated CKD-602 in pts with and without hepatic tumor(s) were 156 and 103 μg/h, respectively (P < 0.001). The inclusion of age decreased IIV in the release of CKD-602 from S-CKD602 by 22%. Typical values of release of CKD-602 from S-CKD602 in pts < 60 years old (yo) and pts ≥ 60 yo were 0.21 and 0.10 L/h, respectively (P < 0.001). Conclusions: These data suggest that older patients (pts ≥ 60 yo) have a reduced release of CKD-602 from S-CKD602. In addition, pts with tumors in the liver may have an increased clearance of S-CKD602. These observations have potential implications in the optimal dosing of liposomal agents.

[Table: see text]

Human papillomavirus type 16 reduces the expression of microRNA-218 in cervical carcinoma cells

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are involved in the pathogenesis of cancer of the cervix (CaCx). MicroRNA (miRNA) expression analysis using Ambion (Austin, TX, USA) arrays showed that three miRNAs were overexpressed and 24 underexpressed in cervical cell lines containing integrated HPV-16 DNA compared to the normal cervix. Furthermore, nine miRNAs were overexpressed and one underexpressed in integrated HPV-16 cell lines compared to the HPV-negative CaCx cell line C-33A. Based on microarray and/or quantitative real-time PCR and northern blot analyses, microRNA-218 (miR-218) was specifically underexpressed in HPV-positive cell lines, cervical lesions and cancer tissues containing HPV-16 DNA compared to both C-33A and the normal cervix. Expression of the E6 oncogene of high-risk HPV-16, but not that of low-risk HPV-6, reduced miR-218 expression, and conversely, RNA interference of E6/E7 oncogenes in an HPV-16-positive cell line increased miR-218 expression. We also demonstrate that the epithelial cell-specific marker LAMB3 is a target of miR-218. We also show that LAMB3 expression is increased in the presence of the HPV-16 E6 oncogene and this effect is mediated through miR-218. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in cervical carcinogenesis.

Age-related effects on the pharmacodynamic (PD) relationship between STEALTH liposomal CKD-602 (S-CKD602) and monocytes in patients with refractory solid tumors

2576

Background: STEALTH liposomal CKD-602 (S-CKD602), a camptothecin analogue, is eliminated by the reticuloendothelial system (RES), which consists of cells including monocytes. CKD-602 released from S-CKD602 is eliminated by the kidney. Therefore, we evaluated the PD relationship between monocyte and absolute neutrophil counts (ANC; as a control) in blood and S-CKD602 and non-liposomal CKD-602 (NL-CKD602) in patients (pts) with refractory solid tumors. We also evaluated the effect of age on these relationships. Methods: In a phase I study, S-CKD602 was administered IV x 1 q 3 wk at 0.1 to 2.5 mg/m2. In phase I and II studies, NL-CKD602 was administered IV qdx5d q 3 wk at 0.5 to 0.9 mg/m2/d and 0.5 mg/m2/d, respectively. The % decreases in ANC and monocytes at nadir were calculated. For S-CKD602, pharmacokinetic studies of encapsulated (E), released (R), and sum total (ST=E+R) CKD-602 in plasma and ST in urine were performed and measured by LC-MS/MS. Area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) was calculated. Results: For S-CKD602 in all pts (n = 27), the % decrease in ANC and monocytes were 42 ± 30 % and 58 ± 34 %, respectively (P = 0.003). For S-CKD602 in pts < 60 years old (yo) (n = 12), the % decrease in ANC and monocytes were 43 ± 31% and 58 ± 26 %, respectively (P = 0.001). For S-CKD602 in pts = 60 yo (n = 15), the % decrease in ANC and monocytes were 41 ± 31% and 45 ± 36 %, respectively (P = 0.50). For NL-CKD602 (n = 42), % decrease in ANC and monocytes were similar (P > 0.05). For S-CKD602, the relationship between % decrease in monocytes and released CKD-602 AUC in plasma in pts < 60 yo (R2 = 0.54) and = 60 yo (R2 = 0.49) was similar. For S-CKD602, the relationship between the % decrease in monocytes and the amount of CKD-602 recovered in the urine was stronger in pts < 60 yo (R2 = 0.82) compared with = 60 yo (R2 = 0.30). Conclusions: Monocytes are more sensitive to S-CKD602 compared with neutrophils and the increased sensitivity is related to the liposomal formulation and not CKD-602. These results suggest that monocytes engulf S-CKD602 which causes the release of CKD-602 from the liposome and toxicity to the monocytes, and that the effects are more prominent in pts < 60 yo.

[Table: see text]

Morbidity and survival of 32 recurrent ovarian cancer patients treated with aggressive cytoreductive surgery followed by intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemoperfusion

16078

Background: Cytoreductive surgery followed by intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemoperfusion (CS/IPHC) has shown increased survival for patients with recurrent and persistent GI malignancies with peritoneal dissemination. We present our preliminary experience with CS/IPHC as palliative therapy for recurrent ovarian cancer treated at a single institution. Methods: A retrospective review of CS/IPHC for women with recurrent or persistent epithelial ovarian carcinoma previously treated with platinum/taxane chemotherapy at a single institution from 2002–2006 was performed. Each patient had an attempted optimal surgical debulking (volume of residual disease <1 cm) prior to chemoperfusion. IPHC was performed on all patients for 100 minutes at temperatures between 40–42°C with either mitomycin C (40 mg/m2) or cisplatin (100 mg/m2). Post-surgical complications were evaluated. End points analyzed included morbidity, progression free survival, and over all survival. Results: Thirty-two patients were identified, with optimal cytoreductive surgery obtained in 26 (81.3%). Procedures required for cytoreduction included omentectomy (n=16), splenectomy (n=14), colonic resection (n=14), small bowel resection (n=13), ileostomy (n=9), hepatic resection (n=5), partial gastrectomy (n=5), and diaphragmatic stripping (n=3). Over-all morbidity was 65.6%, with major morbidity of 9.4%. There were three mortalities within sixty days of operation. Common morbidities included neutropenia (n=5), ileus (n=5), pleural effusions (n=4), and sepsis (n=4). Median length of stay was 11 days (6 to 47). Nineteen patients had a documented recurrence with a median progression free survival of 8 months (1 to 22). Median survival was 13 months (1 to 54) for these patients with recurrent end stage ovarian cancer. Conclusions: CS/IPHC is associated with high morbidity, but acceptable mortality. In a subset of patients, survival is improved compared to historical controls for recurrent ovarian cancer. A randomized phase II study is planned based on this data.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Pilot study of FLT-PET/CT uptake in ovarian cancer patients with biologic correlates

16045

Background: New imaging modalities for ovarian cancer disease burden are needed. Positron emission tomography (PET) with [F-18] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) has shown promise for early prediction of outcome and response to therapy when compared to CT alone. Recent studies have suggested that 3’-fluoro-3’ [F-18] deoxythymidine (FLT) has a higher specificity than FDG. The objective of this study was to correlate FLT tracer uptake with different in vitro quantitation of cellular proliferation. Methods: Patients with suspected or know ovarian cancer and an elevated Ca 125 were recruited for this trial. These patients were injected with 5 mCi of [F-18]FLT intravenously as a slow bolus. After an uptake period of 60 minutes, patients were scanned for approximately 36 minutes by CT and then PET, and images were co- registered. Standardized uptake values (SUV) of both hot and cold areas were obtained and these lesions were biopsied at the time of surgery. Tissue was divided and used for Ki-67 proliferation index staining to determine mitotic index, RNA isolation for rt-PCR for thymidine kinase-1 (TK1) levels, and grown ex vivo for cell proliferation analysis. Univariate analysis was preformed using the student's t-test. Results: PET positive lesions were found to have a significantly increased mitotic index when compared to control lesions (0.134 vs. 0.004, p<0.001). There were no significant differences in relative TK1 levels or ex vivo cell proliferation ability between PET positive and control lesions in the initial four patients. Conclusions: Increased mitotic index by Ki-67 staining correlates with increased FLT activity by PET scan, but not TK1 levels or DNA content. We will continue to explore this modality as compared to FDG-PET in patients with ovarian cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Termination of intraperitoneal chemotherapy is driven by treatment toxicity rather than catheter dysfunction

16054

Background: Three separate studies have shown increased survival for women with epithelial ovarian carcinoma treated with intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy. Barriers to its use have included toxicity concerns. We compared the morbidity associated with IP cisplatin- based chemotherapy and IP immunologic therapies. Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis of patients diagnosed with epithelial ovarian carcinoma treated with IP chemotherapy at a single institution from 1996–2006 was performed. Patients were separated into those who received IP Interleukin-2 or Interleukin-12 and those who received cisplatin-based IP chemotherapy. Primary endpoint was completion of the intended treatments. Complications arising from the placement or use of the catheter were deemed catheter-related and included obstruction of flow or catheter site infection. Those felt to be caused by treatment toxicity (e.g. nausea, pain, fever) or progression of disease were deemed treatment-related. Chi square test was used for all univariate analysis. Results: Seventy-five patients were identified. Thirty-five (46.6%) received IL-2 or IL-12, while 40 (53.4%) received cisplatin-based chemotherapy. There were 16 complications that led to treatment termination (21.3%). Immunologic therapy had an increased frequency of early termination (n=13, 37.1%) compared to cisplatin-based therapy (n=3, 7.5%) (p=0.002). There were 3 (8.6%) catheter-related complications in the immunologic group and 2 (5%) in the cisplatin-based group (p=0.54). Reasons for termination of therapy in the immunologic therapy group were progression of disease (n=5), catheter site infection (n=3), grade 3/4 nausea (n=3), and grade 3/4 abdominal pain (n=2). In the cisplatin therapy group, reasons for termination included catheter site infection (n=1), catheter site leak (n=1), and progression of disease (n=1). Conclusion: Local-regional immunotherapy produces significantly more complications and local symptoms than cisplatin-based regimens. Catheter complications were not significantly different between the two groups, and accounted for a small percentage of the treatment terminations in this series.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Age and body composition related-effects on the pharmacokinetic disposition of STEALTH liposomal CKD- 602 (S-CKD602) in patients with advanced solid tumors

2528

Background: STEALTH liposomes (SL), which contain lipids conjugated to polyethylene glycol (PEG), prolong the circulation time of a drug in plasma, achieve high and extended drug exposure in tumor, and are eliminated via the reticuloendothelial system (RES). S- CKD602 is a SL formulation of CKD-602, a camptothecin analogue. CKD-602 released from S-CKD602 is eliminated by the kidney. There is significant interpatient variability in the pharmacokinetic (PK) disposition of S-CKD602. Thus, there is a need to identify factors associated with the PK variability. We hypothesize that older patients (pts) have a reduced capacity to eliminate SL agents due to age-related impairment of the RES and that body composition alters the disposition of SL. Methods: PK studies of S-CKD602 were performed in a phase I study of S-CKD602 at 0.1 to 2.5 mg/m2 IV q 21 d in pts with solid tumors. Concentrations of encapsulated (E), released (R), and sum total (E + R) CKD-602 in plasma and CKD-602 in urine were measured by LC-MS/MS. Area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) was calculated and normalized by dose (AUC/dose). The ratio of total body weight to ideal body weight (TBW/IBW) was calculated as a measure of body composition. Results: Mean ± SD S-CKD602 sum total AUC/dose in pts < 60 (n = 13) and = 60 (n = 17) years of age (yo) were 4.5 ± 5.0 and 11.2 ± 11.0 (μg/ml·h)/(mg/m2), respectively (P<0.05). Controlling for age, there was a statistically significant inverse relationship between TBW/IBW and S-CKD602 AUC/dose where low TBW/IBW was associated with high AUC/dose in both age groups (P<0.05). The cumulative amount of CKD-602 recovered in the urine was 2.2-fold higher in pts < 60 yo compared with = 60 yo. Conclusions: These data suggest that pts = 60 yo have a reduced clearance of S-CKD602 and reduced release of CKD-602 from S- CKD602 compared with pts < 60 yo. In addition, pts < 60 and = 60 yo with a lean body composition may have a reduced tissue distribution and an increased plasma exposure of S-CKD602. The clinical significance of these differences and the factors associated with them need to be evaluated for S-CKD602 and other liposomal and nanoparticle anticancer agents.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Cytoreduction and intraperitoneal heated chemotherapy for the treatment of endometrial carcinoma recurrent within the peritoneal cavity

Our experience with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPHC) in conjunction with surgical resection for endometrial cancer recurrent within the abdominal cavity was reviewed. Eligible patients underwent exploratory laparotomy with the aim of resecting disease to ≤5 mm maximum dimension followed immediately by intraperitoneal perfusion of cisplatin (100 mg/m2) heated to 41–43°C (105.8–109.4°F) for 1.5 h. Data for analysis was extracted from retrospective chart review. Five patients underwent surgery and IPHC between September 2002 and January 2005 for abdomino-pelvic recurrence. Original stage and histology were 1A papillary serous (1), 1C endometrioid with clear cell features (1), and 1B endometrioid (3). Mean age was 61 (41–75) years, mean prior laparotomies were 1.4 (1–2), and mean chemotherapy agent exposure was 1.6 (0–4). Mean time from initial treatment to surgery and IPHC was 47 (29–66) months. Mean length of surgery was 9.8 (7–11) h after which three patients had no residual disease and two had ≤5 mm disease. The mean duration of hospital stay was 12.6 (6–20) days. Postoperative surgical complications included wound infection with septicemia in one patient. Mean maximum postoperative serum creatinine was 1.02 (0.6–1.70) mg/dL. There was no ototoxicity or neuropathy and no perioperative mortality. No patients have been lost to follow-up. Two are living disease free at 28 and 32 m and two are living with disease at 12 and 36 m. One patient died at 3 m without evidence of cancer. Two patients who had no residual macroscopic disease at the end of surgery are alive at 32 and 36 m. The combination of IPHC with surgery for recurrent endometrial carcinoma is relatively well tolerated. The unexpectedly long survival seen in this cohort supports a phase II trial of IPHC with cisplatin for recurrent endometrial cancer.

Final results of a phase I and pharmacokinetic study of STEALTH liposomal CKD-602 (S-CKD602) in patients with advanced solid tumors

2013

Background: S-CKD602 is a pegylated STEALTH liposomal formulation of CKD-602, a semi-synthetic analogue of camptothecin (CPT) and topoisomerase I inhibitor. Preclinical studies have shown that prolonged exposure to CPT achieves the greatest antitumor activity. STEALTH liposomes prolong the circulation time in plasma, achieve high and extended drug exposure in tumor, and provide a convenient dosing schedule. Methods: Patients (pts) were administered S-CKD602 IV over 1 h once every 3 wks. Modified Fibonacci escalation was used (3–6 pts/cohort), and dose levels ranged from 0.1–2.5 mg/m2. Serial plasma samples were obtained prior to administration to 96 h after administration, and on days 8 and 15 of cycle 1. Plasma samples were processed to measure concentrations of encapsulated (E), released (R), and sum total (E+R) CKD602 total (lactone + hydroxyl acid) by LC-MS/MS. Area under the plasma conc versus time curve (AUC0-∞) and t1/2 were estimated. Results: 45 pts (21 male) have been treated: median age 62 y (range: 33–79 y); ECOG status: 0 and 1 (43 pts), 2 (2 pts). The majority of reported adverse events were grade (G) 1 and 2. Frequent nonhematological toxicities were asthenia, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and anorexia. Dose-limiting toxicities of G3 mucositis occurred in 1/6 pts at 0.3 mg/m2, G3/4 bone marrow suppression in 2/3 pts at 2.5 mg/m2, and G3 febrile neutropenia in 1/6 pts at 2.1 mg/m2. The maximum tolerated dose was 2.1 mg/m2. Stable disease for ≥ 6 cycles occurred in 5 pts (hepatocellular carcinoma (CA), thyroid, prostate, 2 pts sarcoma). Partial responses occurred in 2 pts with ovarian CA (1.7 and 2.1 mg/m2). At 2.1 mg/m2, the mean ± SD AUC and t1/2 of sum total S-CKD602 were 44 ± 33 μg/mL·h and 18 ± 8 h, respectively. In all plasma samples, >90% of drug was encapsulated. Conclusions: S-CKD602 represents a promising new STEALTH liposomal CPT agent with manageable toxicity and promising antitumor activity. Phase II studies of S-CKD602 at 2.1 mg/m2 IV once every 3 wks are planned. Prolonged plasma exposure over 1 to 2 wks is consistent with STEALTH liposomes and provides extended exposure compared with non-liposomal CPT. (Supported by ALZA and NIH/NCCR/GCRC #5M01 RR 00056).

[Table: see text]

Efficacy and safety of erlotinib HCl, an epidermal growth factor receptor (HER1/EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma: results from a phase II multicenter study

The aim of this single-arm, phase II study was to estimate the tumor response rate and safety profile of erlotinib HCl (erlotinib, Tarceva, OSI-774) monotherapy in patients with refractory, recurrent, HER1/EGFR-positive epithelial ovarian tumors, who had failed prior taxane and/or platinum-based chemotherapy. Thirty-four patients received 150 mg erlotinib orally once daily for up to 48 weeks or until disease progression or dose-limiting toxicity. Two patients had partial responses, lasting 8+ and 17 weeks, giving an objective response rate of 6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.7-19.7%). Fifteen patients (44%) had stable disease, and 17 patients (50%) had progressive disease. Median overall survival was 8 months (95% CI, 5.7-12.7 months), with a 1-year survival rate of 35.3% (95% CI, 19.8-53.5%). Patients with rash survived significantly longer than those without (P= 0.009), correlating with rash grade. Erlotinib was generally well tolerated. The most frequent erlotinib-related adverse events were rash (68%) and diarrhea (38%). Erlotinib had marginal activity but was generally well tolerated. The safety profile appears more favorable than typically experienced with standard chemotherapeutic agents, which is encouraging in these heavily pretreated patients. Combination of erlotinib with chemotherapy or other targeted agents should be considered.

Villoglandular adenocarcinoma of the cervix recurrent in an episiotomy scar: a case report in a 32-year-old female

Cervical cancer during pregnancy is rare, occurring in approximately 3% of cervical cancer cases. Considerable controversy exists as to the long-term prognosis of patients diagnosed during pregnancy. A 32-year-old female presented with vaginal spotting in April 1998. A prenatal smear in December 1996 revealed atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance. A sterile speculum exam in April 1997 at 31-week gestational age revealed a polyp on the anterior lip of the cervix, pathology consistent with a well-differentiated villoglandular adenocarcinoma. In August 1997, the patient underwent a radical hysterectomy with pelvic/para-aortic lymphadenectomy. In April 2001, she represented with nodular perineal mass in the episiotomy incision. She received preoperative radiotherapy with a near-complete response and remained without disease for >10 months. It appears that a less radical procedure can offer significant therapeutic value. Preoperative radiotherapy proved effective at achieving a near-complete response. The patient underwent a wide local excision of the perineal area with resultant negative margins.

Villoglandular adenocarcinoma of the cervix recurrent in an episiotomy scar: a case report in a 32-year-old female

Cervical cancer during pregnancy is rare, occurring in approximately 3% of cervical cancer cases. Considerable controversy exists as to the long-term prognosis of patients diagnosed during pregnancy. A 32-year-old female presented with vaginal spotting in April 1998. A prenatal smear in December 1996 revealed atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance. A sterile speculum exam in April 1997 at 31-week gestational age revealed a polyp on the anterior lip of the cervix, pathology consistent with a well-differentiated villoglandular adenocarcinoma. In August 1997, the patient underwent a radical hysterectomy with pelvic/para-aortic lymphadenectomy. In April 2001, she represented with nodular perineal mass in the episiotomy incision. She received preoperative radiotherapy with a near-complete response and remained without disease for >10 months. It appears that a less radical procedure can offer significant therapeutic value. Preoperative radiotherapy proved effective at achieving a near-complete response. The patient underwent a wide local excision of the perineal area with resultant negative margins

Conventional 3D conformal versus intensity-modulated radiotherapy for the adjuvant treatment of gynecologic malignancies: a comparative dosimetric study of dose–volume histograms☆

OBJECTIVE

The goals of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of pelvic intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in the adjuvant treatment of gynecologic malignancies and to compare the dose-volume histograms (DVHs) and determine the potential impact on acute and long-term toxicity based on the dose to target and nontarget tissues for both planning techniques.

METHODS

Ten consecutive patients referred for adjuvant radiotherapy for gynecologic malignancies at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Hospital were selected for CT-based treatment planning using the ADAC 3D version 4.2g and the NOMOS Corvus IMRT version 4.0. Normal tissues and critical structures were contoured on axial CT slices by both systems in conjunction with a gynecologic radiologist. These regions included internal, external, and common iliac nodal groups, rectum, upper 4 cm of vagina, bladder, and small bowel. Conventional treatment planning included 3D four-field box using 18-MV photons designed to treat a volume from the L(5)/S(1) border superiorly to the bottom of the ischial tuberosity on the AP/PA field and shaped blocks on the lateral fields to minimize the dose to the rectum and small bowel. A seven-field technique using 6-MV photons was used for IMRT. Restraints on small bowel for IMRT were set at 23.0 Gy +/- 5% and 35.0 Gy+/- 5% for the rectum and 37.5 Gy +/- 5% for the bladder while simultaneously delivering full dose (45.0 Gy) to the intrapelvic nodal groups in 1.8-Gy daily fractions. The dose-volume histograms where then compared for both treatment delivery systems.

RESULTS

The volume of each organ of interest (small bowel, bladder, and rectum) receiving doses in excess of 30 Gy was compared in the 3D and IMRT treatment plans. The mean volume of small bowel receiving doses in excess of 30 Gy was reduced by 52% with IMRT compared with 3D. A similar advantage was noted for the rectum (66% reduction) and the bladder (36% reduction). The nodal regions at risk and the upper vagina all received the prescribed dose of 45.0 Gy.

CONCLUSIONS

Intensity-modulated radiotherapy appears to offer several advantages over conventional 3D radiotherapy (3D CRT) planning for adjuvant radiotherapy for gynecologic malignancies. These include a significant reduction in treatment volume for bladder, rectum, and small bowel. It is anticipated that this reduction in volume of normal tissue irradiated would translate into overall reduction in acute and potentially late treatment-related toxicity. Prospective trials are necessary to better evaluate the advantages in a larger group of patients.

Physiological and molecular effects of Apo2L/TRAIL and cisplatin in ovarian carcinoma cell lines

Combining of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (Apo2L/TRAIL) with a chemotherapeutic drug, cisplatin, in ovarian carcinoma cell lines exerted potent anti-tumor effects that exceeded the effects of each drug alone. In order to investigate mechanisms of anti-tumor activity of cisplatin/Apo2L/TRAIL combination, we assessed in detail the molecular effects of cisplatin and Apo2L/TRAIL-activated cell death in two ovarian carcinoma cell lines, OVCAR3 and SKOV3, using cDNA array hybridization, Western blot and flow cytometry. We observed differential induction of apoptosis-related molecules by cisplatin and Apo2L/TRAIL. Cisplatin upregulated the expression of both death and decoy TRAIL receptors, as well as of TRAF5 and -6, downregulated the anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2, and induced activation of caspases-3, -8 and -9. Apo2L/TRAIL induced the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins, Bad and Bax; downregulated the anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL; and activated caspases-3, -7, -8, -9 and -10. Cisplatin/Apo2L/TRAIL combination resulted in further downregulation of expression of anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, as well as an increase in mitochondrial permeability transition and activation of caspases-3, -8, and -10. These data demonstrate positive cooperation of cisplatin and Apo2L/TRAIL and emphasize the potential clinical usefulness of cisplatin/Apo2L/TRAIL combination therapy.

Using antecedent manipulations to distinguish between task and social variables associated with problem behaviors exhibited by children of typical development

In the antecedent functional assessment literature, researchers have introduced task demands and social attention simultaneously while varying the level of task difficulty. Though research has demonstrated situations in which a combination of social and task antecedents occasion socially avoidant responses from children with disabilities, no current studies have been offered to assess the impact of high levels of adult attention devoid of task demands on problem behaviors exhibited by children of typical development. A multiple element design was used to assess the specific effects of task and social antecedents on the problem behaviors of four children of typical development. Results identified two children whose behavior was associated with a combination of difficult task demands and attention in the form of commands and redirections and two children whose behavior was associated only with high levels of adult attention that did not include commands or redirections. These results suggest that antecedent functional assessment procedures can assess the impact of high levels of attention without the presence of task demands.

Vaginal mucosa serves as an inductive site for tolerance

These data demonstrate that tolerance can be induced by vaginal Ag exposure. In these experiments, mice were given vaginal agarose gel suppositories containing either 5 mg OVA or saline for 6 h. Mice were given suppositories either during the estrous (estrogen dominant) or diestrous (progesterone dominant) stage of the estrous cycle. Mice were restrained during the inoculation period to prevent orovaginal transmission of the Ag. After 1 wk, mice were immunized s. c. with OVA in CFA. After 3 wk, mice were tested for delayed-type hypersensitivity responses by measuring footpad swelling and measuring in vitro proliferation of lymphocytes to Ag. Using ELISA, the magnitude of the serum Ab response was also measured. In some mice, FITC conjugated to OVA was used to track the dissemination of the protein into the systemic tissues. The magnitude of footpad swelling was significantly reduced in mice receiving OVA-containing suppositories during estrus compared with mice receiving saline suppositories. Concomitant decreases in the Ag-specific proliferative response were also observed in lymph node lymphocytes and splenocytes. Conversely, mice inoculated during diestrus did not show a decreased response to Ag by either footpad response or in vitro proliferation. Serum Ab titers in the estrus-inoculated mice did not decrease significantly. These data demonstrate that the reproductive tract can be an inductive site for mucosally induced tolerance. However, unlike other mucosal sites such as the lung and gastrointestinal tract, reproductive tract tolerance induction is hormonally regulated.

Chemotherapy for malignant mixed Müllerian tumors of the ovary

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to review the chemotherapy experience at Magee-Womens Hospital for malignant mixed müllerian tumor (MMMT) of the ovary. Patients were treated with either paclitaxel/carboplatin (PC) outpatient chemotherapy or platinum/ifosfamide (PI) inpatient chemotherapy as first- or second-line therapy.

METHODS

Thirteen patients diagnosed with MMMT of the ovary after complete surgical staging from 1990 to 1999 were studied retrospectively. Six patients received PC combination chemotherapy, of which 3 patients received PC as first-line treatment. The other 3 patients received PC as second-line therapy. Eight patients were treated with PI. Demographic data, pathology, cytoreductive surgery, treatment, and survival rates were reviewed. Complete clinical response (CR) was defined as the disappearance of all measurable disease or normalization of elevated CA 125 level after chemotherapy. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used for survival analysis.

RESULTS

The median survival time of patients receiving PC was 19 months. One patient, after receiving PC as first-line treatment, demonstrated a CR and is free of disease beyond 33 months. The median survival time of patients managed with PI was 23 months. Three patients with suboptimal disease demonstrated CR after receiving PI.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimal chemotherapy regimen for MMMT of ovary remains to be determined. Platinum-based chemotherapy in combination with ifosfamide or paclitaxel may be active against this rare malignancy.

Improved bowel function after gynecological surgery with epidural bupivacaine-fentanyl than bupivacaine-morphine infusion

PURPOSE

To compare postoperative gastrointestinal recovery between continuous epidural bupivacaine-fentanyl and bupivacaine-morphine.

METHODS

In a blinded, randomized, prospective trial, 60 women undergoing surgery for gynecologic cancer were studied. Anesthesia was provided by a combined general/epidural (L2-3 catheter) technique without epidural opioids. Postoperative epidural analgesia was by continuous infusion of bupivacaine 0.1% with either morphine 0.05 mg x ml(-1) (BM) or fentanyl 5 microg x ml(-1) (BF). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores for pain at rest and during movement, and the return of bowel function were collected for three days and the duration of hospitalization were noted.

RESULTS

On POD-1, 18.5% of patients in the BM group had emesis compared with none in the BF group (P = 0.038) and fewer patients in the BM group tolerated clear oral fluids (11.1% BM vs 40.6% BF, P = 0.025). These differences became insignificant on POD-2 and 3. Median pain scores were comparable at rest and ranged from 10-20 in the BM group vs 0-20 in the BF group over the three days. Similarly, median pain scores with movement respectively ranged from 20-25 and 20-30 in the BF and BM groups. The mean duration of hospitalization was longer in the BM group (5.7 +/- 2.4) vs BF (4.5 +/- 1.2 days), P = 0.017.

CONCLUSION

Epidural BM and BF provided equally effective postoperative analgesia at rest and during movement. Compared with BM, epidural BF is associated with less emesis and an increased ability to tolerate oral fluids on POD-1 and an overall shorter hospital stay.

Use of preoperative MR imaging in the management of endometrial carcinoma: cost analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the cost of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and its ability to direct the use of lymph node dissection with the cost and ability of conventional surgery for the staging of endometrial carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Preoperative MR images of 25 patients who underwent hysterectomy for endometrial carcinoma were retrospectively evaluated. MR imaging results were compared with those of intraoperative gross dissection of the uterus and final histopathologic examination. Medicare reimbursements for two scenarios were compared in each patient. In the MR imaging scenario, the necessity for lymph node dissection was based on MR imaging results and histologic findings at biopsy. In the actual scenario, lymph node dissection was performed at the surgeon's discretion on the basis of findings at gross dissection of the uterus and histologic examination at biopsy.

RESULTS

The cost of the MR imaging scenario, as defined by Medicare reimbursements, was 1% ($1, 265/$148,500) less than that of the actual scenario. In the MR imaging scenario, all patients who required lymph node dissection received it, and 86% of the lymph node dissections performed were necessary. In the actual scenario, one necessary lymph node dissection was not performed, and only 31% of the lymph node dissections performed were necessary.

CONCLUSION

Staging with MR imaging has costs and accuracy similar to those of the current method of staging with intraoperative gross dissection of the uterus. In addition, MR imaging decreases the number of unnecessary lymph node dissections.

Optimization of the weck-Cel collection method for quantitation of cytokines in mucosal secretions

Measurement of immune components in mucosal secretions is important for the evaluation of local immunity at the mucosal surfaces. The Weck-Cel ophthalmic sponge provides a method for the collection of these secretions. The sponge absorbs a relatively large volume of material, therefore allowing for quantitation of multiple immune components. Additionally, it provides a method in which the same device may be used to collect specimens from different mucosal sites, such as the genital tract and oral cavity. This sampling technique has successfully been applied for collection and measurement of antibody in oral and genital tract secretions. The purpose of this work was to optimize the extraction of protein from the sponge matrix. Of particular interest was the recovery of cytokines from the sponge. Satisfactory recovery of the cytokines interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), IL-2, IL-5, IL-12, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor was obtained. However, IL-4 and gamma interferon recovery rates remained low. Using an alteration of the published extraction method, cytokine concentrations were measured in cervical secretions from women using oral contraceptives. The data revealed detectable concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, and IL-12 on cycle days 9 and 20. The proposed technique provides an easy, practical, and consistent method for collection of nonconventional body fluids, such as cervicovaginal fluids and saliva, for the assay of immunoglobulins and several cytokines.

Collection of cervical secretions does not adversely affect Pap smears taken immediately afterward

Collection of cervical secretions for local immunological assessment requires that the secretions be collected prior to the Pap smear to avoid contamination with blood. The objective of the present study was to determine whether gentle collection of cervical secretions prior to a Pap smear collection influences the quality of the Pap smear. A total of 266 women were recruited. Half of the participants were assigned to collection of cervical secretions prior to Pap smear collection with Weck-cel sponges. The remaining half had only the Pap smear collection performed. Pap smear slides were reviewed and evaluated for quality by the Bethesda System adequacy criteria without knowledge of randomization. The proportions of limited or inadequate slides in the two study groups were compared by using the Pearson chi-square test. No significant differences were observed between the two study groups when overall Pap smear quality was evaluated (P = 0.29). Comparison of the two study groups with respect to individual adequacy criteria, including presence of air drying artifact, presence of obscuring blood, absence of metaplastic or endocervical cells from the transformation zone, scant cellularity, and presence of obscuring inflammatory cells, also revealed no significant differences between the two study groups. Results from the present study suggest that the collection of cervical secretions with Weck-cel sponges does not adversely impact the quality of subsequently obtained Pap smears.

Comparison of toxicity and survival following intraperitoneal recombinant interleukin-2 for persistent ovarian cancer after platinum: twenty-four-hour versus 7-day infusion

PURPOSE

To compare the toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy seen in ovarian cancer patients treated with escalating doses of intraperitoneal (I.P.) interleukin-2 (IL-2) by two different infusion schedules.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-five patients were sequentially entered onto a phase I/II study in groups of four at fixed dosage tiers of 6 x 10(4), 6 x 10(5), 6 x 10(6), and 3 x 10(7) IU/m2/d in either of two schedules: (A) intermittent weekly infusions of 24 hours' duration; or (B) alternating continuous 7-day infusions followed by 7-day intervals without therapy. Eligibility criteria included > or = six courses of prior platinum-based chemotherapy and laparotomy-confirmed persistent or recurrent ovarian cancer.

RESULTS

Forty-one eligible patients received I.P. IL-2 and were assessable for toxicity, but six patients were not assessable for response, which left 35 patients assessable for response. Significant locoregional dose-limiting toxicity was seen with the 7-day infusions (including bowel perforation), with 600,000 IU/m2 as the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), but catheter infection was the only significant complication seen with the 24-hour infusions, for which an MTD was not established. Among 35 assessable patients, there were six laparotomy-confirmed complete responses (CRs) and three partial responses, for an overall response rate of 25.7% (nine of 35). The median survival time of the cohort was 13.7 months and the overall 5-year survival probability was 13.9%. For the nine patients who demonstrated responses (six on the 24-hour infusion and three on the 7-day infusion), the median survival time has not been reached (range, 27 to 90+ months).

CONCLUSION

I.P. IL-2 is better tolerated as a weekly infusion as compared with a 7-day infusion and demonstrates evidence of possible long-term efficacy in a modest number of patients. A randomized trial is indicated to determine if the prolonged survival seen in this study is a due to I.P. IL-2 therapy or other factors that cannot be controlled for in a single-arm study.

A trial of outpatient paclitaxel and carboplatin for advanced, recurrent, and histologic high-risk endometrial carcinoma: preliminary report

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the combination of paclitaxel (Taxol; Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, NJ) and carboplatin in patients with endometrial cancer known to be resistant to standard therapy. Subjects were taken from three groups: (1) recurrent or persistent disease following surgery and/or radiation, (2) advanced disease at diagnosis, and (3) high-risk histology. The combination of carboplatin (pharmacologically dosed at an area under the concentration-time curve of 5) and paclitaxel (135 to 175 mg/m2 over 3 hours) was given intravenously every 4 weeks for eight courses. Data about response, overall and progression-free survival, and toxicity were collected. Response and toxicity were evaluated by physical examinations, x-ray films, and blood tests. Twenty patients have participated to date, including eight considered evaluable for response. Due to limited follow-up, survival and progression-free intervals are not yet assessable. Of patients with measurable disease, five of eight (63%) have had significant reduction in the size of evaluable tumor masses, constituting a partial response. Although two patients had clinical and radiographic complete responses, occult disease was found at surgery. There were no complete responders. Fifteen patients had grade 3 or 4 hematologic toxicity, but none had neutropenic fever or hospitalization for sepsis. One patient was taken off study for grade 3 neuropathy. There was one possible treatment-related death. In this preliminary report, this combination is active against tumors of the endometrium, with acceptable levels of toxicity. Further follow-up will be required to determine the duration of response and whether progression-free and overall survival are influenced by treatment with these drugs.

Rectal immunization for induction of specific antibody in the genital tract of women

The purpose of the current study was to examine potential routes of vaccine administration for the induction of antigen-specific responses in the genital tract of women. Sixteen women were enrolled in this study, and the level of influenza-specific antibodies induced in the genital tract was measured after rectal or intramuscular immunizations. Both methods of administration induced significant increases in the concentration of flu-specific IgA found in cervical secretions within 28 days after vaccination. Initially flu-specific IgG antibodies were not induced in the genital tract by either route. As expected both IgA and IgG flu-specific antibodies were dramatically increased in serum after intramuscular vaccination. In contrast, rectal administration did not induce significant IgA responses, and only small flu-specific IgG increases in serum. Six months after administration, IgA flu-specific antibody concentrations were significantly higher than baseline levels in vaginal secretions and saliva isolated from both subject groups and flu-specific IgG concentrations in cervical secretions were high in the rectal immunization group. The long-term presence of both IgG and IgA antibody in genital secretions suggests that rectal immunization may be an effective method for induction of immune protection in the genital tract of women.

A case-matched molecular comparison of extraovarian versus primary ovarian adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Extraovarian müllerian adenocarcinoma (EOM) resembles primary ovarian carcinoma (POC) both histologically and clinically, yet little is known regarding the molecular genetic characteristics of this entity. The objective of this study was to compare the expression of three molecular markers of tumor behavior in EOMs and POCs.

METHODS

Forty-four patients meeting strict criteria for EOM were identified and matched to POC controls for age, stage, tumor histology and grade, cytoreductive surgery, and survival. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine overexpression of p53 and HER-2/neu. DNA content was evaluated by flow cytometry. Direct DNA sequencing of exons 5-8 of the p53 gene was performed in nine EOM tumors. Statistical comparisons were made using chi-square, Kaplan-Meier, and Mantel-Cox log rank methods.

RESULTS

Overexpression of HER-2/neu was demonstrated in 59% (26 of 44) of the EOM group versus 36% overexpression (16 of 44) in the POC controls (P = 0.05). Overexpression of p53 was noted in 48% of the EOM cases, similar to the 59% incidence observed in the control group (P = 0.29). Missense mutations were found in 9 of 9 EOM tumors showing strong p53 nuclear immunostaining. No significant difference in the incidence of aneuploidy was observed when EOM cases were compared with POC controls (65% vs. 63%). High tumor grade was strongly associated with HER-2/neu overexpression in the EOM group (P = 0.002). None of the parameters studied were predictive of prognosis within the EOM and POC groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Although overexpression of p53 protein, p53 gene mutations, and abnormal DNA content were similar between EOMs and POCs, EOMs demonstrated almost twice the rate of HER-2/neu overexpression. This result suggests that distinct genetic events may be responsible for malignant transformation in EOMs versus POCs.

Immunoglobulin-containing plasma cells recruited to cervical neoplasia

OBJECTIVE

To determine the number and isotype of immunoglobulin (Ig)-containing cells that infiltrate various stages of cervical neoplasia from no lesion to invasive cancer.

METHODS

By three-color immunofluorescent microscopy, the number and isotype of stromal plasma cells were determined for 91 specimens representing a spectrum of cervical epithelial neoplasia as follows: no lesion (n = 12), koilocytic atypia (n = 13), mild dysplasia (n = 21), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL; n = 22), and invasive carcinoma (n = 23).

RESULTS

The Ig-positive cell counts were markedly increased under the low-grade SIL. Specifically, the mean number of IgG-positive plasma cells was significantly increased (P < .003) under the subepithelial stroma of mild dysplasia as compared with no SIL, high-grade SIL, or invasive carcinoma. These immunocyte infiltrates were clustered in the stroma beneath koilocytes, which also demonstrated IgG-positive intracellular staining.

CONCLUSION

Low-grade cervical lesions are infiltrated by IgG plasma cells to a greater extent than high-grade or invasive cervical lesions, suggesting that antibody responses are preferentially recruited in early cervical neoplasia, giving credence to the concept that low-grade lesions represent a human papillomavirus infection of the cervix rather than a neoplastic condition.

T lymphocytes infiltrating advanced grades of cervical neoplasia. CD8-positive cells are recruited to invasion

BACKGROUND

Impaired cellular immunity appears to be a risk factor for progression of cervical neoplasia, but the immunobiology of neoplastic progression is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to characterize the subpopulations of T lymphocytes that infiltrate various grades of cervical neoplasia including metaplasia to invasive cancer in immunocompetent women.

METHOD

In 65 patients with a spectrum of cervical disease ranging from normal cytology to carcinoma, the relative proportions of total T lymphocytes and CD4- or CD8-expressing (helper or cytotoxic) T lymphocyte subsets were determined by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

When the invasive carcinoma stromal infiltrate was compared with the infiltrate of preinvasive lesions, the numbers of total T cells and the CD8-positive subset increased significantly in the invasive cancers (P < 0.005). Although immunocyte infiltrates were highly concentrated in focal clusters beneath the preinvasive squamous lesions, the CD8-positive immunocytes diffusely infiltrated the invading tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

The CD8-positive T cell infiltrate far exceeded the CD4-positive cells in the invasive, but not in the preinvasive lesions, a finding that suggests that CD8 cells are recruited preferentially to cervical lesions with progression to invasion.

Normal uterine cervix: characterization of isolated lymphocyte phenotypes and immunoglobulin secretion

PROBLEM

Isolation of viable cervical lymphocyte populations and characterization of their function in healthy tissue is necessary to understand immunity in the genital tract.

METHODS

Normal, cervical tissue was digested using a multi-enzymatic digestion procedure. Lymphocytes were characterized using FACS analysis and ELISPOT analysis for immunoglobulin secreting cells.

RESULTS

Following the digestion procedure, 0.16 x 10(6) +/- 0.8 cells/g of tissue with a viability of 90-98% were isolated from normal cervical tissue. FACS analysis determined that B lymphocytes were the predominant cell type in normal cervical tissue representing a significantly higher percentage than that found in peripheral blood (P = 0.015). T lymphocytes and NK cells represented a significantly lower percentage than that found in peripheral blood (P = 0.0001 and 0.026, respectively). The largest percentage of immunoglobulin secreting cells isolated were secreting IgG followed by IgA. A limited number of IgM secreting cells were detected. IgA2 secreting cells represented 34.46 +/- 4.6% of the total number of IgA plasma cells.

CONCLUSION

These studies represent the first analysis of viable mononuclear cells isolated from normal cervical tissue. The results form a baseline from which it will now be possible to compare changes that occur at the cervical squamocolumnar junction in response to infection or neoplasia.

A survey of blood transfusion practices of gynecologic oncologists

OBJECTIVE

To survey the attitudes of gynecologic oncologists about indications for blood transfusion, and compare them to current recommendations about transfusion practice.

METHODS

With the permission of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists (SGO), a study questionnaire was mailed to 548 members and candidates in their directory. The questions asked about transfusion threshold before chemotherapy, following ovarian debulking, and after endometriosis surgery. Indications for transfusion were assessed using a qualitative/quantitative scale. Responses were analyzed with respect to years of SGO membership and practice setting using the chi 2 test and analysis of variance. Results were compared to the 1992 guidelines for transfusion of the American College of Physicians (ACP).

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty-five forms were returned (52% of total). Fifty-one percent of respondents were in full-time academic positions; 36% were in private practice. Sixty-one percent were full SGO members, and 35% were candidates. The average prechemotherapy transfusion threshold (TT) was a hemoglobin concentration (hgb) of 7.9 +/- 0.7 g/dl (g). At that level the mean transfusion was 1.9 +/- 0.5 units of packed red blood cells (U). For the ovarian debulking scenario, the mean postoperative TT was 8.1 +/- 0.8 g with a mean transfusion of 1.9 +/- 0.4 U. For the endometriosis case, the mean TT was 7.0 +/- 0.8 g, with a mean transfusion of 1.9 +/- 0.5 U. Analysis showed no difference in practice based on years of SGO membership or practice setting.

CONCLUSION

A majority of the gynecologic oncologists surveyed offers transfusion at levels of anemia similar to ACP recommendations, but frequently transfuse more units than recommended. A substantial minority does not follow the guidelines at all.

CD8+ T lymphocytes are recruited to neoplastic cervix

ToliicIV distinguish normal cervical lymphocyte populations from phenotypes recruited to the cervix in response to cervical neoplasia, lymphocytes were isolated from normal and neoplastic cervix. A portion of the cervical transformation zone was obtained from 19 patients with pathologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and from 20 patients with normal cervices undergoing hysterectomy for benign indications. Mononuclear cells were harvested from cervical tissue using a serial, multienzymatic digestion procedure and enriched by density gradient centrifugation. Isolated cell populations were stained with surface marker-specific monoclonal antibodies and analyzed by fluorescent activated cell sorter to determine the percentage of B cells, total T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. The distribution of circulating peripheral blood lymphocyte phenotypes was similar for both patients with neoplasia and normal controls. A marked disparity in the proportions of NK cells and T cells was demonstrated among lymphocyte phenotypes infiltrating the cervix. The percentage of CD4+ T cells and NK cells was significantly depressed (P = 0.04, P = 0.03, respectively) in dysplastic tissue as compared to normal cervical tissue. In contrast, the proportion of CD8+ T cells was significantly increased in the dysplastic tissue (P = 0.0001). Analysis of immunocompetent cells in the circulation appears to have little correlation with immunocytes present in the dysplastic epithelium. The depression in the proportion of CD4+ T lymphocytes and NK cells at the cervical squamocolumnar junction reflects a local recruitment of CD8+ T cells to the site of neoplasia in the cervix.

LLETZ is an acceptable alternative to diagnostic cold-knife conization

Large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) provides a pathologic specimen similar to a cold-knife cone (CKC) biopsy of the cervix. One hundred twenty women with indications for a cone biopsy were evaluated with LLETZ to determine if this procedure is an acceptable alternative to traditional cold-knife conization of the cervix. All patients had LLETZ performed in the clinic under local anesthesia. An average of 2.1 slices was required to remove the transformation zone. Coagulation artifact interfered with histologic diagnosis in only 1.8% of specimens. The number of slices taken during the LLETZ procedure significantly correlated with the amount of heat artifact in the pathology specimen (P = 0.02) and interfered with the ability of the pathologist to determine complete excision of dysplasia (P = 0.03). LLETZ is an acceptable alternative to diagnostic CKC and can offer a substantial cost savings. To facilitate histopathologic interpretation, every effort should be made to minimize the number of slices and to maintain orientation of the LLETZ specimen. Endocervical curettage performed after LLETZ can identify a group of patients who are at high risk for CIN recurrence.