The efficacy of non-pharmacological and non-pacing therapies in preventing vasovagal syncope: Tilt training, physical counter pressure maneuvers, and yoga - A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a prevalent condition characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, leading to a brief loss of consciousness and postural control. Recurrent episodes of VVS significantly impact the quality of life and are a common reason for emergency department visits. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as tilt training, physical counter pressure maneuvers, and yoga, have been proposed as potential treatments for VVS. However, their efficacy in preventing VVS remains uncertain.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched up to March 2023 for randomized controlled trials comparing non-pharmacological interventions with control in preventing VVS recurrence. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate of VVS episodes.

RESULTS

A total of 1130 participants from 18 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The overall mean effect size for non-pharmacological interventions versus control was 0.245 (95 % CI: 0.128-0.471, p-value <0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that yoga had the largest effect size (odds ratio 0.068, 95 % CI: 0.018-0.250), while tilt training had the lowest effect size (odds ratio 0.402, 95 % CI: 0.171-0.946) compared to control. Physical counter pressure maneuvers demonstrated an odds ratio of 0.294 (95 % CI: 0.165-0.524) compared to control.

CONCLUSION

Non-pharmacological interventions show promise in preventing recurrent VVS episodes. Yoga, physical counter pressure maneuvers, and tilt training can be considered as viable treatment options. Further research, including randomized studies comparing pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these interventions for VVS treatment.

First-line Systemic Treatment Options for Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: A Living Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

Importance

The effectiveness of triplet therapy compared with androgen pathway inhibitor (API) doublets in a heterogeneous patient population with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) is unknown.

Objective

To assess the comparative effectiveness of contemporary systemic treatment options for patients with mCSPC across clinically relevant subgroups.

Data Sources

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, Ovid MEDLINE and Embase were searched from each database's inception (MEDLINE, 1946; Embase, 1974) through June 16, 2021. Subsequently, a "living" auto search was created with weekly updates to identify new evidence as it became available.

Study Selection

Phase 3 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) assessing first-line treatment options for mCSPC.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two independent reviewers extracted data from eligible RCTs. The comparative effectiveness of different treatment options was assessed with a fixed-effect network meta-analysis. Data were analyzed on July 10, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), grade 3 or higher adverse events, and health-related quality of life.

Results

This report included 10 RCTs with 11 043 patients and 9 unique treatment groups. Median ages of the included population ranged from 63 to 70 years. Current evidence for the overall population suggests that the darolutamide (DARO) triplet (DARO + docetaxel [D] + androgen deprivation therapy [ADT]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.68; 95% CI, 0.57-0.81), as well as the abiraterone (AAP) triplet (AAP + D + ADT; HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.59-0.95), are associated with improved OS compared with D doublet (D + ADT) but not compared with API doublets. Among patients with high-volume disease, AAP + D + ADT may improve OS compared with D + ADT (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.55-0.95) but not compared with AAP + ADT, enzalutamide (E) + ADT, and apalutamide (APA) + ADT. For patients with low-volume disease, AAP + D + ADT may not improve OS compared with APA + ADT, AAP + ADT, E + ADT, and D + ADT.

Conclusions and Relevance

The potential benefit observed with triplet therapy must be interpreted with careful accounting for the volume of disease and the choice of doublet comparisons used in the clinical trials. These findings suggest an equipoise to how triplet regimens compare with API doublet combinations and provide direction for future clinical trials.

A living interactive systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluating systemic therapies in metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC)

193

Background: We maintain a network meta-analysis for the treatment of mCSPC using a living interactive evidence (LIvE) synthesis framework. Recently, the STAMPEDE trial presented evidence regarding a new triplet regimen (enzalutamide-abiraterone-androgen deprivation therapy [E+AAP+ADT]). Hence, in this report we provide the most-up-to-date evidence to inform the choice of optimal therapy in mCSPC patients. Methods: Phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing treatment intensification with androgen pathway inhibitors (API), docetaxel (D), or both in patients with mCSPC were included. Mixed treatment comparisons for overall-survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were made across randomized comparisons using a frequentist network-meta-analysis. Additionally, subgroup data from three trials (ENZAMET, TITAN, ARCHES) by the receipt of docetaxel were abstracted to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of different triplet regimens. Treatment effects were expressed as hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Relative treatment rankings were evaluated using P-scores and assessed in congruency with the pairwise estimates. Results: This report includes 10 clinical trials (30 references) and over 11500 patients updated as of 1st October 2022. Using randomized data in overall patient population, AAP+D+ADT (rank 1; HR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.35-0.72) and E+AAP+ADT (rank 4; HR: 0.76; 0.62-0.93) significantly improved PFS compared to D+ADT (rank 7) but not when compared to E+ADT (rank 2) and APA+ADT (rank 3). Similarly, darolutamide (DARO)+D+ADT (rank 1; HR: 0.68; 0.57-0.81), AAP+D+ADT (rank 2; HR: 0.75; 0.59-0.95) significantly improved OS when compared to D+ADT (rank 7). Efficacy by volume of disease and timing of metastatic presentation was consistent with prior update. Using subgroup data by the receipt of docetaxel, a total of five triplet regimens (DARO+D+ADT, AAP+D+ADT, E+D+ADT, apalutamide (APA)+D+ADT, and E+AAP+ADT) were evaluable for comparisons. E+D+ADT (rank 3) improved PFS compared to D+ADT (rank 9; HR: 0.52; 0.41-0.66) and E+AAP+ADT (rank 6; HR: 0.70; 0.52-0.94). Compared to AAP+ADT (rank 7), E+D+ADT (HR: 0.64; 0.49-0.84) and AAP+D+ADT (rank 2; 0.62; 0.42-0.91) significant improved PFS. However, no significant differences were observed among E+D+ADT, AAP+D+ADT, and APA+D+ADT. Similarly, DARO+D+ADT (rank 1) improved OS compared to APA+D+ADT (HR: 0.47; 0.24-0.93). Conclusions: Current evidence favors the use of emerging triplet regimens over docetaxel doublet but not API doublets in overall population. Among different triplets, E+AAP+ADT may not delay progression compared to docetaxel triplets. Hence, access to treatment, toxicity, disease volume and timing of metastases should be carefully considered in mCSPC patients.

Real-time evidence synthesis for first line (1L) treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC): A living, interactive systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

695

Background: Recent results from COSMIC 313 trial and updated findings from other contemporary trials have added to the existing body of evidence for 1L mRCC. Therefore, we present the most up-to-date results from our living, interactive systematic review (LISR) to facilitate the choice of optimal therapy in 1L mRCC setting. Methods: This LISR and network meta-analysis is maintained using a novel living evidence synthesis (LIvE) framework. The framework facilitates the identification of new or updated studies using an automated ‘living’ search which is followed by screening and extraction in a semi-automated fashion within a machine learning assisted graphical user interface. Relevant data is parsed and analyzed to compute mixed treatment comparisons and certainty of evidence is adjudicated using a rule-based algorithm. Detailed methods have been published before (PMID: 33824031). Results: As of October 1st 2022, this LISR includes 16 clinical trials (30 references). Mixed treatment comparisons showed statistically significant PFS benefit with lenvatinib-pembrolizumab (LenPem; rank 1) when compared to cabozantinib-nivolumab (CabNivo; rank 3; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.69, 95% confidence interval: 0.52-0.93), CaboNivo-ipilimumab (CaboNivoIpi; rank 4; HR: 0.62; 0.43-0.89), avelumab-axitinib (AveAxi; rank 5; HR: 0.56; 0.43-0.75), PemAxi (rank 6; HR: 0.55; 0.42-0.72), atezolizumab-bevacizumab (AteBev; rank 7; HR: 0.46; 0.35-0.59), and NivoIpi (rank 8; HR: 0.45; 0.35-0.59). No significant differences were observed between CaboNivoIpi and other combination therapies for PFS improvement. Similarly, for OS, LenPem (rank 1), PemAxi (rank 2) and CaboNivo (rank 3) were ranked as potentially more efficacious treatment options than other counterparts. However, no statistically significant difference was observed for OS benefit with mixed treatment comparisons. The odds of achieving an ORR were higher with LenPem (rank 1; odds ratio [OR]: 2.44; 1.43-4.17), and CaboNivo (rank 2; OR: 1.77; 1.04-3.03) when compared to CaboNivoIpi (rank 6). NivoIpi (rank 1), LenPem (rank 2), CaboNivoIpi (rank 3) were ranked potentially as more efficacious treatments for achieving a CR. In terms of grade 3 or higher treatment related adverse events, NivoIpi (rank 3) was ranked as potentially the safest option among other combinations while CaboNivoIpi (rank 12), LenPem (rank 11), and CaboNivo (rank 10) were more likely to increase the risk of toxicity compared to most other treatments. Conclusions: Triplet combination of CaboNivoIpi may not provide additional survival benefit compared to other immunotherapy combinations and may increase toxicity. Patient-level considerations such as treatment toxicity, and quality of life should be factored in when opting intensified 1L therapies in mRCC patients.

Adjuvant immunotherapy in renal cell carcinoma: A living systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA)

694

Background: The treatment landscape of localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is rapidly evolving. Recent trials have demonstrated contrasting efficacy with adjuvant immunotherapy. Therefore, we sought to assess the mixed treatment comparisons among different adjuvant treatment options using updated data from trials and quantified the absolute effect with these treatments stratified by risk categories. Methods: This living network meta-analysis was conducted using the living interactive evidence (LIvE) synthesis framework. We used stratified baseline risks of disease progression from observational data and at 5, 10, 15 years from the Leibovich risk stratification system (based on risk scores ranging from 0 to ≥15). Corresponding intervention risks were then approximated using relative effect estimates (from NMA) and baseline risks. The difference between CIRs and baseline risks were calculated to present absolute risk differences in each risk category. Results: This NMA included eight RCTs with 8480 participants and seven unique treatment options. Pembrolizumab (pembro; rank 1) was associated with improved disease-free survival (DFS) when compared to atezolizumab (atezo; rank 6; hazard ratio: 0.68; 0.49;0.93), and nivolumab-ipilimumab (nivoipi; rank 5; 0.68; 0.48-0.97). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between pembro and atezo for overall survival (0.53; 0.28-1.01). Survival data for nivoIpi was not reported. No new statistically significant differences were observed since last update. The absolute benefit of atezo and nivoipi was minimal with higher T and N patients (Table). The results were similar with increasing Leibovich risk scores. Conclusions: Current evidence favors the use of a risk adapted approach when offering adjuvant immunotherapy. Adjuvant pembrolizumab remains a preferred treatment in patients with RCC who underwent nephrectomy. [Table: see text]

Efficacy of immune-checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) combination as a first-line (1L) therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) with sarcomatoid histology: A systematic review and meta-analysis

692

Background: Sarcomatoid mRCC exhibits poor prognosis and limited response to vascular endothelial growth factor pathway inhibition. Therefore, we assessed the efficacy of ICI combination therapy in this patient population using data from contemporary trials. Methods: MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched to identify phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy of ICI combinations with sunitinib monotherapy in patients with sarcomatoid mRCC. Patient important outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and complete response (CR). Precomputed hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for survival outcomes and binary outcome data for response rates (expressed as relative risk [RR] were meta-analyzed using a DerSimonian-Lairds random-effects method. Mixed treatment comparisons among different ICI combinations were made using a network-meta-analysis within the Bayesian framework. The surface under the cumulative ranking curves (SUCRA) were computed to assess the relative treatment rankings. Results: Six RCTs with a total of 618 patients were considered eligible for inclusion. ICI combination therapy was significantly associated with improved OS (HR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.43-0.72) and PFS (HR: 0.50; 0.40-0.62), increased ORR (RR: 2.42; 1.92-3.06), and CR (RR: 4.23; 2.00-8.93) when compared to sunitinib in patients with sarcomatoid mRCC (Table). The results were consistent with Hartung-Knapp adjustment. Mixed treatment comparisons using current data revealed no statistically significant differences among different ICI combinations. However, the combination of nivolumab-ipilimumab was consistently ranked higher (rank 2 for OS, ORR, and CR) and may potentially be more efficacious than other counterparts. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests improved survival, delayed disease progression and increased response rates with the use of ICI combination therapy in patients with sarcomatoid mRCC. [Table: see text]

The Role of Systemic Therapy in Resectable Colorectal Liver Metastases: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite multiple randomized trials, the role of perioperative chemotherapy in colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) is still under debate. In this systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA), we aim to evaluate the efficacy of perioperative systemic therapies for patients with CRLM.

METHODS

We searched various databases for abstracts and full-text articles published from database inception through May 2021.We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the addition of perioperative (post, pre, or both) systemic therapies to surgery alone in patients with CRLM. The outcomes were compared according to the chemotherapy regimen using a random effects model. Outcomes of interest included disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Seven RCTs with a total of 1504 patients with CRLM were included. Six studies included post-operative treatment and one evaluated perioperative (pre- and postoperative) therapy. Fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy was the most used systemic therapy. NMA showed benefit of adding perioperative therapy to surgery in terms of DFS (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.84). However, these findings did not translate into a statistically significant OS benefit (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.05). NMA did not show any advantage of one regimen over another including oxaliplatin or irinotecan.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and NMA of 7 RCTs found that the addition of perioperative systemic treatment for resectable CRLM could improve disease-free survival but not overall survival. Based on the findings, addition of perioperative treatment in resectable CRLM should be individualized weighing the risks and benefits.

Disparities in Representation of Women, Older Adults, and Racial/Ethnic Minorities in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Trials

PURPOSE

We aim to describe reporting and representation of minority patient populations in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) clinical trials and assess predictors of enrollment disparity.

METHODS

Trial-level data were acquired from eligible phase II and III trials. Population-based estimates were acquired from the SEER 18 and Global Burden of Disease incidence databases. Trials reporting race, age, and sex were summarized using descriptive statistics. Enrollment-incidence ratio (EIR) was used to assess representation of subgroups. Average annual percentage change (AAPC) in EIR was calculated using Joinpoint Regression Analysis. Trial-level characteristics associated with EIR were assessed using multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

A total of 107 trials with 48,095 patients were identified. Participation of Black, White, Asian, Native American, Pacific Islander, and Hispanic participants was reported in 65 (61%), 77 (72%), 68 (64%), 40 (37%,) and 24 trials (22%), respectively. Subgroup analyses of clinical outcomes by race, age, and sex were reported in 17 (22%), 62 (78%), and 57 (57%) trials, respectively. Women (trial proportion [TP]: 32%; EIR: 0.90 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84-0.96]), patients aged ≥65 years (TP: 42%; EIR: 0.78 [95% CI: 0.72-0.84]), Black participants (TP: 1.9%; EIR: 0.17 [95% CI: 0.13-0.22]) and Hispanics (TP: 5.9%; EIR: 0.67 [95% CI: 0.53-0.82]) were underrepresented. Representation of Black patients decreased significantly from 2009 to 2020 (AAPC: -23.13). Black participants were significantly underrepresented in phase III trials (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The reporting of participation by racial or ethnic subgroup categories is inadequate. Women, older adults, as well as Black and Hispanic participants are significantly underrepresented in ICI clinical trials.

Quantifying the absolute benefit of neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by definitive therapy in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

4594

Background: Cisplatin based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) followed by definitive therapy improves survival in patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). However, the clinical benefit of NAC might vary with the choice of definitive therapy. Therefore, we assessed the absolute benefit of NAC followed by radical cystectomy or radical radiotherapy separately using the totality of evidence. Methods: MEDLINE and EMBASE were systematically searched to identify randomized trials assessing cisplatin based neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by either radical cystectomy or definitive radiotherapy in patients with MIBC. Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Treatment effects were expressed as hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Incidence rate ratios were calculated to estimate time to event outcomes for trials not reporting HR. A random-effects DerSimonian-Laird meta-analysis was conducted. Absolute effects were then obtained using baseline risks from the control arm of RCTs. Results: Of 4887 studies identified, 13 trials with 2529 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Most trials included patients with T2-4 and N0 patients and only 3 trials included patients with node positive disease. Total of 180 (47%) DFS events were observed with NAC+RC compared to 213 (56%) events in RC alone (HR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.59-0.89) and 346 (58%) OS events were observed with NAC+ RC compared to 385 (52%) events in RC alone (HR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.69-0.92). Total of 186 (70%) DFS events were observed with NAC + radiotherapy compared to 205 (71%) events in radiotherapy alone (HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.74-1.12) and 263 (58%) OS events were observed with NAC+ radiotherapy compared to 294 (61%) events in radiotherapy alone (HR:0.93; 95% CI: 0.79-1.08). Conclusions: The choice of definitive therapy after cisplatin-based NAC impacts survival in patients with MIBC. RC after NAC improved DFS (114 fewer events per 1000 events) and OS (76 fewer per 1000 events) whereas radiotherapy after NAC showed no survival benefit. [Table: see text]

Indirect comparisons of triplet therapy as compared to novel hormonal therapy doublets in patients with metastatic castration sensitive prostate cancer

5083

Background: ARASENS and PEACE-1 trials suggests treatment intensification with novel hormonal therapy (NHT) in addition to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and docetaxel (DOC) provides survival benefit as compared to DOC+ADT in patients with metastatic castration sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). However, the performance of triplet therapy as compared to NHT+ADT remains unexplored. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE and recent conference proceedings were searched to include phase III trials evaluating triplet therapy in patients with mCSPC and reporting treatment effects in subgroup of patients with and without docetaxel. Outcomes included overall survival (OS) and radiographic progression free survival (rPFS). Precomputed hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) from non-randomized subgroup comparisons were pooled after logarithmic transformation using inverse-variance weighting approach. A DerSimonian-Laird random-effects meta-analysis was then performed to assess subgroup differences. Interaction between subgroups was assessed using P-value of heterogeneity. Mixed treatment comparisons were computed using a fixed-effect model within the frequentist framework using subgroup effect estimates from eligible trials. Results: This meta-analysis included five clinical trials (ARASENS, PEACE-1, ENZAMET, ARCHES and TITAN) with a total of 5804 patients (docetaxel: 2836; no docetaxel: 2836). Subgroup analysis showed statistically significant difference between treatment effects in patients who received docetaxel (NHT + DOC + ADT; HR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.66-0.84; I2: 0%) and those who did not (NHT + ADT; HR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.53-0.70; I2: 0%) for OS (p-value of interaction: 0.04). However, no statistically significant interaction was observed in terms of rPFS (p-value: 0.46). Mixed treatment comparisons showed improved OS with NHT + DOC + ADT (HR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.66-0.84) as compared to DOC + ADT, but not when compared to NHT + ADT (HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.78-1.20). NHT + ADT significantly improved OS compared to DOC + ADT (HR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.64-0.92). Consistently, significant rPFS improvement was observed with NHT + DOC + ADT when compared DOC + ADT (HR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.42-0.57) but not when compared to NHT + ADT (HR: 0.82; 0.65-1.04). NHT + ADT was observed to improve rPFS compared to DOC + ADT (HR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.50-0.72). Conclusions: This exploratory and hypothesis generating analysis suggests that addition of docetaxel (triplet therapy) may not delay progression or prolong survival compared to NHT-based doublets. These findings provide direction for future clinical trials in this space and suggest an equipoise to the question of how triplet regimens compare with NHT-doublets. The results should be interpreted with caution as this analysis does not account for potential confounding relationships such as volume of disease.

Impact of autologous transplantation on survival in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who have high-risk cytogenetics: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Despite routine evaluation of cytogenetics in myeloma, little is known regarding the impact of high-dose therapy (HDT) consolidation on overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS) in patients who have high-risk cytogenetics. The authors performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the heterogeneity of HDT efficacy according to cytogenetic risk.

METHODS

All RCTs in patients who had newly diagnosed myeloma from 2000 to 2021 that compared upfront HDT versus standard-dose therapy (SDT) consolidation were included. The primary objective was to assess the difference in HDT efficacy between standard-risk and high-risk cytogenetics in terms of the OS or PFS log(hazard ratio) (HR). The pooled OS and PFS HR was calculated according to cytogenetic-risk subgroup using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity (I² ) (the percentage of total observed variability explained by between-study differences) was assessed using an interaction test.

RESULTS

After screening 3307 citations, 6 RCTs were included for PFS analysis, and 4 were included for OS analysis. The median follow-up ranged from 3.1 to 7.8 years. The pooled OS HR for HDT versus SDT consolidation in patients with standard-risk and high-risk cytogenetics was 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.70-1.17; I² = 0%) and 0.66 (95% CI, 0.45-0.97; I² = 0%), respectively. The difference in HDT efficacy in terms of OS between standard-risk and high-risk patients was statistically significant in favor of the high-risk group (P for interaction = .03). The pooled PFS HR for HDT versus SDT was 0.65 (95% CI 0.56-0.76; I² = 0%) versus 0.52 (95% CI, 0.33-0.83; I² = 55%), respectively. The difference in HDT efficacy in terms of PFS between standard-risk and high-risk patients was not significant (P for interaction = .25).

CONCLUSIONS

The magnitude of OS benefit with upfront HDT is cytogenetics-dependent. Patients with high-risk cytogenetics should preferably receive upfront rather than delayed HDT consolidation.

LAY SUMMARY

Upfront autologous stem cell transplantation improves overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed myeloma harboring high-risk cytogenetics.

First-line treatment options in metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

132

Background: Treatment landscape for metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) is rapidly evolving. Recent updates of relevant trials and presentation of PEACE-1 results warranted mixed treatment comparisons to inform the choice of treatment in mCSPC. Methods: MEDLINE and EMBASE, along with conference proceedings were searched using a systematic search strategy to identify relevant abstracts and full-text publications of phase II/III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing first-line treatment options in mCSPC. Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS), radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS), and grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs). Direct comparisons were made using DerSimonian-Laird random-effects meta-analysis. Fixed-effect frequentist NMA was conducted to compute network estimates using a multivariate meta-regression approach. Relative treatment rankings were assessed in congruency with direct estimates using P-scores. Secondary NMAs were conducted in several substrata (young, and old; Gleason score < 8 and ≥8; performance status 0 and 1-2, low and high volume of disease). Results: This NMA included nine trials (23 references) with nine unique treatments. rPFS was improved with abiraterone acetate and prednisone-docetaxel-androgen deprivation therapy combination (AAP-D-ADT; rank 1) when compared against most treatment options including AAP-ADT (HR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.44-0.76; rank 5), apalutamide (APA)-ADT (HR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.46-0.87; rank 4), TAK-ADT (HR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.36-0.84; rank 6), and enzalutamide(E)-AAP-ADT (HR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.51-0.97; rank 3), however no significant differences were observed between AAP-D-ADT, and E+ADT (rank 2). Improved OS was observed with AAP-D-ADT (HR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.59-0.95; rank 2), E-AAP-ADT (HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.48-0.97; rank 1), and AAP-ADT (HR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70-0.96; rank 3) compared to D+ADT (rank 6). However, most of the mixed treatment comparisons were statistically insignificant in terms of OS. Similarly, in patients with high volume of disease, AAP+D+ADT (rank 1) was observed to significantly improve rPFS compared to AAP-ADT, APA-ADT, E-ADT, and D-ADT; however, no significant differences were observed among treatment comparisons with regards to OS improvement. E+ADT (rank 1) improved rPFS compared to other treatment in low volume disease but was not different for OS. No significant differences were observed among different treatment options when compared across prespecified subgroups. Moreover, AAP+D+ADT was ranked as the least safe with significantly increased risk of grade 3 AEs relative to other treatments. Conclusions: Current NMA suggests that triplet therapy options were ranked as most likely to improve rPFS and OS at the cost of increased toxicity. Doublet combinations may still be preferred for older patients with low volume of disease.

Triplet therapy in metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

136

Background: Intensification of initial treatment of in patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) with androgen pathway inhibition (API) in addition to docetaxel (DOC) and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has shown promise to improve clinical outcomes. Thus, we synthesize the data from modern clinical trials to estimate overall estimates of progression and survival outcomes. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases (MEDLINE and EMBASE) was conducted to include phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating triplet therapy (API+DOC+ADT) against doublet therapy (DOC+ADT) in mCSPC. Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS) and radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS). A DerSimonian-Laird random-effects meta-analysis was performed to pool precomputed hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) after logarithmic transformation using inverse-variance weighting approach. Cochran’s Q statistical test was used to assess statistically significant heterogeneity not explained by chance, while I2 statistical test was used to quantify the total observed variability, due to between-study heterogeneity. I2 values >50% indicated substantial heterogeneity. A summary of findings table was constructed to translate relative estimates to absolute risks. Results: A total of 1,531 patients in four RCTs with direct comparative data between triplet and doublet therapies, were included in this meta-analysis. PEACE-1 was the only RCT directly assessing this question (AAP+DOC+ADT). ENZA+DOC+ADT was evaluated as a subgroup in two RCTs (ENZAMET; ARCHES), APA+DOC+ADT was evaluated as a subgroup in one (TITAN). To be able to pool studies, the relative efficacy of control arm in ENZAMET (first generation bicalutamide + ADT) was considered equivalent to ADT based on prior literature. A total of 672 rPFS events were observed (34%; 261 events in triplet therapy, 54%; 411 events in doublet therapy). The difference was statistically significant (HR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.42-0.58; I2: 0%). Similarly, 469 OS events were observed (28%; 217 events in triplet therapy, 33%; 252 events in doublet therapy). The difference was statistically significant (HR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.67-0.96; I2: 0%). The summary of findings is outlined in the table. Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis support an improvement in rPFS and OS in favor of triplet therapy over doublet therapy for mCRPC. However, comparative effectiveness of different triplet regimens may be different and needs further exploration.[Table: see text]

A systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluating neoadjuvant treatments in muscle-invasive bladder cancer

518

Background: Cisplatin (C) based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has been the mainstay treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). However, the optimal choice of NAC is not well-established. We therefore conducted a network-meta-analysis (NMA) to assess comparative efficacy of different treatment options. Methods: Several electronic databases (MEDLINE, and EMBASE) and conference proceedings were systematically used to identify randomized trials evaluating first-line treatments in neoadjuvant MIBC. Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR) and pathologic complete response (pCR). DerSimonian-Laird random-effects meta-analysis was used to compute direct comparisons between NAC and local therapy (LT) only. Fixed effect NMA was conducted within the frequentist framework for mixed treatment comparisons. P-scores were used to assess relative treatment rankings. All statistical analyses were conducted in R (v 4.1.1). Results: This systematic review included 23 trials (25 references) with a total of 5313 patients with 10 unique treatments. Direct comparisons showed significant benefit in PFS (HR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.71-0.94), and in OS (HR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.78-0.92) with NAC when compared to LT only. However, the likelihood of achieving an objective response (RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.72-1.95: I2: 85%) or CR (RR: 1.51; 95% CI: 0.87-2.61; I2: 79%) was not different between the two arms. Data available in 15 trials contributed to the network for PFS outcome while only eight trials contributed to OS outcome. Mixed treatment comparisons showed significantly improved PFS with nintedanib-gemcitabine-cisplatin (NinGC; HR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.20-0.87) and dose-dense-methotrexate-vinblastine-doxorubicin-cisplatin (ddMVAC; HR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.43-0.88) compared to LT only. Consistent benefit was observed when NinGC (HR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.24-0.97) and ddMVAC (HR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.51-0.96) were compared to GC only. However, no significant differences were observed between NinGC (rank 1) and ddMVAC (rank 2) or among other mixed treatment comparisons. Similarly, OS was significantly improved with NinGC (rank 1) relative to MVAC (HR: 0.41; 95% CI: 0.17-0.97), MVC (HR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.16-0.88), MC (HR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16-0.92), AC (HR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.15-0.91), and GC (HR: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.17-0.90). While similar results were observed with ddMVAC (rank 2) when compared to MVC (HR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.42-0.94), MC (HR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.42-0.98), and GC (HR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.47-0.92), no significant differences were observed with ddMVAC when compared to MVAC (HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.38-1.01) and NinGC (HR: 1.70; 95% CI: 0.69-4.19). Conclusions: Current evidence shows improved PFS and OS with the use of neoadjuvant ddMVAC and Nin-GC in patients with MIBC relative to other treatment options.

Quantifying absolute benefit of adjuvant treatments in renal cell carcinoma: A systematic review and network-meta-analysis

360

Background: Pembrolizumab has been established as an effective treatment option in adjuvant renal cell carcinoma after the publication of KEYNOTE-564. However, the magnitude of benefit based on different risk categories is not well defined. Methods: We included full-text publications of phase II/III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating immune checkpoint inhibitors or tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in adjuvant renal cell carcinoma after a systematic search. The outcomes of interest included disease free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), all grade or grade ≥3 treatment related, and all cause adverse events. Mixed treatment comparisons were computed through a fixed-effect multivariate meta-regression within the frequent framework. Relative treatment rankings were assessed using P-scores. We used stratified baseline risks of disease progression from observational data and at 5, 10, 15 years from the Leibovich risk stratification system (based on risk scores ranging from 0 to ≥15). Corresponding intervention risks (CIRs) were then approximated using relative effect estimates (from NMA) and baseline risks. The difference between CIRs and baseline risks were calculated to present absolute risk differences in each baseline category. Results: This NMA included six RCTs with a total of 7525 participants and five unique treatment options. Mixed treatment comparisons showed significant DFS and OS benefit with pembrolizumab (rank 1) when compared against sunitinib (DFS HR 0.74 [0.55-0.99]; OS HR 0.51 [0.27-0.94]). However, there were no significant differences with pembrolizumab compared to pazopanib (DFS HR 0.81 [0.60- 1.09]; OS HR 0.54[0.29-1.01]) and axitinib (DFS HR 0.78 [0.54-1.14]; OS HR 0.52 [0.24-1.16]). The safety profiles were comparable. Absolute benefit of TKIs in adjuvant setting was minimal whereas this benefit increased with higher T and N patients in patients treated with pembrolizumab (Table). Similarly, the treatment benefit increased with higher Leibovich’s risk scores at 5, 10 and 15 years of follow up. Conclusions: The current analysis suggests that a risk adapted approach may be useful when considering adjuvant pembrolizumab in RCC patients.[Table: see text]

Adjuvant Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Concluded Living Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Multiple large clinical trials have investigated adjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and progression to metastasis in high-risk renal cell carcinoma. We sought to maintain living and interactive evidence on this topic, until a high level of certainty is reached for key clinical outcomes such that further updates become unnecessary and unlikely to change clinical practice.

METHODS

We created a living interactive evidence synthesis platform to maintain a continuously updated meta-analysis on TKI monotherapy in adjuvant renal cell carcinoma. We implemented an automated search strategy with weekly updates to identify randomized phase 2 and 3 clinical trials. Study selection, appraisal, and data extraction were done in duplicate. Cumulative meta-analysis was performed using Analyzer Module in Living Interactive Evidence platform. For each outcome (overall survival [OS], disease-free survival [DFS], and all-cause and treatment-related adverse events), we assessed certainty of evidence using GRADE approach and conducted trial sequential analysis.

RESULTS

This final update includes five randomized trials including recently updated data from PROTECT trial. Meta-analysis shows that adjuvant TKI monotherapy offers no benefit in OS (hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.91 to 1.12, high certainty) or DFS (hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.00, high certainty) and significantly increases adverse event risk. Lack of benefit was consistent across subgroups including highest-risk patients (test for subgroup differences: P = .32). Optimal information size criteria were met, and there was high certainty of evidence for lack of DFS and OS benefit for adjuvant TKIs.

CONCLUSION

There is no guidance on when to stop maintaining a living review. In this example, we used trial sequential analysis and high certainty of evidence (future clinical trials unlikely to change current conclusions) as a benchmark to conclude a living review in view of convincing evidence.

Disparities in reporting and representation of women, older adults and racial minorities in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) clinical trials

6549

Background: Representation and outcomes of women, older adults, and racial minorities in ICI trials has not been previously described. Methods: MEDLINE and Embase were searched to identify ICI RCTs. Data for trial characteristics, proportion of trials reporting race, age and sex as well as the proportion of patients by race, age and sex enrolled in ICI trials was collected. Descriptive statistics were reported for trials reporting minority representation and proportion of included patients by race, age and sex. Disparities in representation were calculated using enrollment incidence disparity (EID) and enrollment incidence ratios (EIR) by comparing trial enrollment against U.S. population-based estimates acquired from the SEER 18 incidence database. The relationship of EID to key trial characteristics were compared using standard parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. Trends in EIR were analyzed using the Joinpoint Regression Analysis software. Results: 108 ICI trials from 2009 to 2020 with 48,360 patients were included in this analysis. All RCTs reported sex (101/101). 78 trials reported race (72%), of which only 41 trials (38%) reported data on all 5 U.S. racial categories (Black, White, Asian, Pacific Islander and Native American). Participation of Black patients was reported in 66 trials (61%), White participants in 78 trials (72%), Asians in 69 trials (64%), Native Americans and Pacific Islanders in 41 trials (38%), and Hispanics in 24 trials (22%). Age categories were inconsistently defined, and 80 trials (74%) reported the proportion of patient by age categories. Subgroup analyses of clinical outcomes by race, age and sex were reported in 17 (22%), 62 (79%) and 57 (73%) trials respectively. Women (trial proportion [TP]: 32%; EIR: 0.77), patients aged ≥ 65 years (TP: 42%; EIR: 0.74), Black participants (TP: 1.8%; EIR: 0.17) and Hispanic participants (TP: 5.9%; EIR: 0.67) were largely underrepresented, and Asians were overrepresented (TP: 15.9%; EIR: 2.64). Black patients were underrepresented across all cancer types. Similarly, women, older adults ( > 65 years of age) and Hispanic patients were consistently underrepresented across cancer types with few exceptions. Representation of older adults increased significantly from 2010-2020 (APC: 2.72), while representation of Black patients decreased significantly from 2009-2020 (APC: -23.37). Black patients were found to be significantly underrepresented in phase III trials (p = 0.0005), trials with OS as the primary endpoint (p = 0.004), and PD1 inhibitor trials (p = 0.002). Hispanics were significantly underrepresented in PD1 inhibitor trials (p = 0.003). Conclusions: There is both suboptimal reporting about participation and underrepresentation of women, racial minorities (particularly Black patients) and older adults in ICI trials as compared to their cancer incidence.

A Living, Interactive Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of First-line Treatment of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

CONTEXT

Identifying the most effective first-line treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) is challenging as rapidly evolving data quickly outdate the existing body of evidence, and current approaches to presenting the evidence in user-friendly formats are fraught with limitations.

OBJECTIVE

To maintain living evidence for contemporary first-line treatment for previously untreated mRCC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We have created a living, interactive systematic review (LISR) and network meta-analysis for first-line treatment of mRCC using data from randomized controlled trials comparing contemporary treatment options with single-agent tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We applied an advanced programming and artificial intelligence-assisted framework for evidence synthesis to create a living search strategy, facilitate screening and data extraction using a graphical user interface, automate the frequentist network meta-analysis, and display results in an interactive manner.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

As of October 22, 2020, the LISR includes data from 14 clinical trials. Baseline characteristics are summarized in an interactive table. The cabozantinib + nivolumab combination (CaboNivo) is ranked the highest for the overall response rate, progression-free survival, and overall survival, whereas ipilimumab + nivolumab (NivoIpi) is ranked the highest for achieving a complete response (CR). NivoIpi, and atezolizumab + bevacizumab (AteBev) were ranked highest (lowest toxicity) and CaboNivo ranked lowest for treatment-related adverse events (AEs). Network meta-analysis results are summarized as interactive tables and plots, GRADE summary-of-findings tables, and evidence maps.

CONCLUSIONS

This innovative living and interactive review provides the best current evidence on the comparative effectiveness of multiple treatment options for patients with untreated mRCC. Trial-level comparisons suggest that CaboNivo is likely to cause more AEs but is ranked best for all efficacy outcomes, except NivoIpi offers the best chance of CR. Pembrolizumab + axitinib and NivoIpi are acceptable alternatives, except NivoIpi may not be preferred for patients with favorable risk. Although network meta-analysis provides rankings with statistical adjustments, there are inherent biases in cross-trial comparisons with sparse direct evidence that does not replace randomized comparisons.

PATIENT SUMMARY

It is challenging to decide the best option among the several treatment combinations of immunotherapy and targeted treatments for newly diagnosed metastatic kidney cancer. We have created interactive evidence summaries of multiple treatment options that present the benefits and harms and evidence certainty for patient-important outcomes. This evidence is updated as soon as new studies are published.

A framework for living evidence synthesis in cancer: Living, interactive network meta-analysis for first-line treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC)

335

Background: Systematic reviews are outdated quickly when the evidence is rapidly evolving as the process is laborious and there is little incentive for primary author team of an index SRMA to update the evidence. Consequently, there is an epidemic of redundant SRMAs performed by different teams—sometimes with conflicted results—for treatment of first line mRCC. Methods: We have created a living, interactive systematic review (LISR)and network meta-analysis(LINMA) for the treatment of first line mRCC using an Artificial intelligence (AI) assisted framework for evidence synthesis (Living, Interactive evidence synthesis framework) (LIvE) . The framework is implemented in five-layered architecture (application layer, shared module layer, core service layer, middleware layer, and storage layer) which work together to automate the identification of new studies and analysis and semi-automate the screening and data extraction. Dynamic features such as interactive tables, figures and evidence maps are enabled using Python and JavaScript programming languages. Results: We have maintained a living, interactive evidence profile for the first line treatment mRCC since September 2019 ( LIVING WEBSITE) . Living search strategy identifies new studies as they become available. As of October 13, 2020 LISR, includes data 14 clinical trials ( PRISMA ). Baseline characteristics are summarized in an interactive table ( TABLE) . Cabozantinib& Nivolumab (Cabo-Nivo) is the highest ranked drug for improving Overall Response (OR), Progression Free Survival (PFS) and Overall Survival (OS) whereas Ipilimumab in combination with Nivolumab (Ipi-Nivo) is highest ranked drug for achieving complete response (CR). Ipi-Nivo and Atezolizumab & Bevacizumab (Ate-Bev) ranked highest and Cabo-Nivo ranked lowest for treatment related Adverse events (TRAEs). Results of network meta-analysis are summarized as interactive tables and plots ( NMA ), summary of findings tables ( MULTIPLE COMAPRISONS ) and evidence maps ( MAP ). Conclusions: LISRs can potentially reduce redundancy, increase transparency, reproducibility, enable shared-decision making (at a guideline level, or in a patient-clinician dyad) and support living guidelines.

Are patients on oral anticoagulation therapy aware of its effects? A cross-sectional study from Karachi, Pakistan

Objective

Oral anticoagulants are one of the most frequently used medications. However, these drugs have a range of side effects including potential life-threatening complications. Little is known regarding the awareness of its side effect profile amongst the patients in Pakistan. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of oral anticoagulant therapy and its side effects among its users.

Results

The mean age was 48.9 ± 15.2 years. Median scores of the participants for knowledge regarding oral anticoagulants and warfarin were 48.7 (8.3–91.7) and 10.3 (0.0–70.0) respectively. Of 207 patients, most notably, 65.7% did not know what side effects to be wary of or how to reduce their occurrence; and most patients were unaware of the interaction between oral anticoagulant drugs and over-the-counter substances such as aspirin, herbal medicines and alcohol. Knowledge of international normalised ratio (INR) was extremely poor with more than 75% of the population not being aware of the target INR range during warfarin therapy. Higher level of education was significantly associated with better knowledge scores. Overall, knowledge of oral anticoagulant therapy and INR monitoring is extremely poor among oral anticoagulant users.

Gender Differences in Faculty Rank and Leadership Positions Among Hematologists and Oncologists in the United States

PURPOSE:

Gender disparity persists in academic medicine. Female faculty are underrepresented in leadership positions and have lower research output. We studied gender differences in faculty rank and departmental leadership and contributing factors among academic hematologists and oncologists in the United States.

METHODS:

For clinical faculty at 146 hematology or oncology fellowship programs listed in the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database, we collected data on demographics, academic rank, and research output using the Doximity and Scopus databases. We compared unadjusted characteristics of men and women by using 2-sided t tests and χ2 tests where appropriate. To predict probability of full professorship or leadership position among men versus women, we performed multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for clinical experience in years, number of publications, h-index, clinical trial investigator status, National Institutes of Health funding, and workplace ranking (top 20 v not).

RESULTS:

Two thousand one hundred sixty academic hematologists and oncologists were included. Women composed 21.9% (n = 142) of full professors, 35.7% (n = 169) of associate professors, and 45.4% (n = 415) of assistant professors. Thirty percent (n = 70) of departmental leaders were women. Female faculty, compared with male faculty, had a lower mean h-index (12.1 v 20.9, respectively; P < .001) and fewer years of professional experience since fellowship (10 v 16 years, respectively; P < .001). After adjusting for duration of clinical experience, academic productivity, and workplace ranking, the odds of obtaining professorship (odds ratio [OR], 1.05; 95% CI, 0.71 to 1.57; P = .85) or divisional leadership (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.20 to 1.58; P = .28) for female physicians were not different compared with male physicians.

CONCLUSION:

Gender disparity exists in senior ranks of academic hematology and oncology; however, gender is not a significant predictor in achieving professorship or department leadership position.

Novel evidence synthesis system to support living systematic reviews and living guidelines for cancer immunotherapy

2054

Background: Systematic reviews that summarize the toxicity of Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) become outdated very soon after publication. Therefore, we reported results of a toxicity meta-analysis at 2019 ASCO meeting and informed the intent to create a living systematic review (LSR). LSRs combine human and machine effort and support rapid evidence synthesis and living clinical practice guidelines. Now, we report our experience maintaining a LSR on toxicity of ICIs. Methods: Steps include quarterly literature searches to identify new clinical trials reporting ICI-associated adverse events (AEs), AI-enabled screening of new citations which meet the inclusion criteria, automated cumulative meta-analysis and an online reporting platform. Standard data formats and protocols were designed for inputting text, tables and graphics. Software was written to interpret these data and output the information in the appropriate format, such as a forest plot and summary tables. Finally, a dynamic interface that enables user inputs and displays the associated output was designed. Results: The LSR is continuously updated incorporating toxicity data from new clinical trials as it becomes available. We have screened 8000 relevant citations and summarized the odds of Grade 3 or higher AEs and AEs of special interest in patient receiving ICIs. The results are updated on quarterly basis and are available online. The results are updated on quarterly basis and will be available on a website at the time of publication. Prototype with dummy data is available at this link . This interface can also be manipulated via user input to organize and sort data tables and forest plots by type of cancer, name or mechanism (PD-1 or PD-L1) of ICI agent, single agent or combination, type of control arm, line of treatment and several other clinically relevant filters. For example, a user can instantaneously generate a meta-analysis summarizing the risk of colitis or pneumonitis in metastatic lung cancer trials with pembrolizmuab. Conclusions: This LSR engine can prospectively synthesize toxicity data from ICI trials in an efficient manner providing accurate and timely information for advanced clinical decision support at point-of-care. Efforts are ongoing to improve efficiency of screening, improve AI-enabled processes for automated screening and data abstraction, and test across multiple clinical questions.

Treatment of metastatic castration sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) by disease volume: A systematic review and a meta-analysis

e17539

Background: Chemotherapy with Docetaxel (D) or androgen pathway inhibition (API) with Abiraterone Acetate plus prednisone (AAP), Aplautamide(APA) and Enzalutamide(E) are acceptable, FDA approved treatment options for mCSPC. It is not clear whether the magnitude of benefit varies by the choice of initial agent [chemotherapy vs API] or by volume of disease [High vs Low]. Data is now available from all registration trials by volume status and motivated this analysis to inform initial treatment choice in mCSPC. Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE(Ovid), Embase, and Scopus for randomized controlled trials of chemotherapy(D) or APIs (AAP, APA, ENZ) that had available hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) and Progression Free Survival (PFS) according to patient’s volume of disease. We also reviewed abstracts and presentations from all major conference proceedings. We calculated the pooled overall survival HR and 95% CI by chemotherapy and APIs and by high volume(HVD) and low volume(LVD) using a random effect model, and tested for heterogeneity to assess the null hypothesis that no difference in the survival advantage exists by choice of initial agent and volume of disease. Results: Of 4456 studies identified in our search, there were 8 eligible randomized controlled trials that were included in the analysis. Both D and APIs significantly improved PFS [HR 0.48; 0.45-0.51] and OS [0.72; 0.64-0.81] when added to ADT, however the latter was associated with significantly higher improvement in PFS( P < 0.01) and OS (P = 0.03). In patients treated with D, patients with HVD derive significantly more benefit as compared to LVD( P = 0.046) and patients treated with APIs both HVD and LVD patients derive similar benefit( P = 0.80) (Table). Conclusions: mCSPC patients derive higher magnitude of survival benefit when treated with APIs as compared to D; however, D may be preferred in HVD patients. [Table: see text]

Adjuvant therapy in high-risk renal cell cancer: A systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis

708

Background: Patients with high risk non-metastatic renal cell cancer (RCC) are at significant risk of recurrence following nephrectomy. Previously, we reported no benefit of adjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment in high-risk patients. Since our most recent publication, efficacy results from the multicenter double-blind SORCE trial have become available. We updated our meta-analysis to include these additional data and performed a cumulative meta-analysis. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched to identify relevant RCTs. A generic variance-weighted random effects model was used to derive estimates for efficacy. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q statistic and was quantified using the I2 test. The primary outcome was disease-free survival (DFS), defined as the interval between randomization and the first recurrence, the occurrence of metastasis or a secondary cancer, or death due to any cause. Statistical analysis was performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 3 (Biostat). Results: Five phase 3 trials were identified, enrolling 6531 patients. Two trials compared sunitinib with placebo (S-TRAC and ECOG-ACRIN), two compared sorafenib with placebo (ECOG-ACRIN and SORCE) and one trial each compared pazopanib (PROTECT) and axitinib (ATLAS) vs placebo. Cumulative evidence suggests that adjuvant therapy with TKIs showed no significant improvement in (DFS) hazard ratio [HR] of 0.93 (95% CI, 0.85-1.02), compared to placebo. There was no significant heterogeneity among included trials ( I2= 52%, P= .41). Overall, the trials were at low risk of bias. Conclusions: Adjuvant vascular endothelial growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in high-risk renal cell carcinoma did not improve DFS as compared to placebo. Improved patient selection using better prognostic biomarkers or scoring systems may identify subsets of patients who can benefit from adjuvant treatments. Toxicity estimates will be updated as data from SORCE trial publication becomes available.

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of first-line treatment options in patients metastatic renal cell carcinoma

709

Background: Several immunotherapy (IMT) combinations either as an IMT doublet or IMT in combination with TKIs are now available for first-line therapy of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). In the absence of head-to-head clinical trials, we performed an indirect comparison of frontline treatment options to provide clinical guidance. Methods: Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched to identify relevant trials. Hazard ratios (HR) and confidence interval (CI) for primary outcome of progression-free survival (PFS) and secondary outcome of overall survival (OS) were abstracted. Network meta-analysis was performed using a multivariate, consistency model, random-effects meta-regression. Data on Grade 3 or higher AEs was abstracted and meta-analyzed. Pre-specified subgroup analyses were performed based on risk categories (high risk vs low and intermediate vs), history of prior nephrectomy, PD-L1 positivity, age and sex. Risk for bias(RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool. Results: Nine studies were included for PFS analysis, and 6 studies for OS analysis. Avelumab-axitinib (AA) (HR 0.69, 0.48-0.96), and Pembrolizumab-Axitinib (PA) (HR 0.89, 0.50-0.96) significantly improved PFS, while there was no significant PFS benefit with atezolizumab-bevacizumab (AB) (HR 0.83, 0.62-1.13) and nivolumab-ipilimumab (NI) (HR 0.85, 0.63-1.15) as compared to Sunitinib. PA (HR 0.53, 0.38-0.75) and NI (HR 0.63, 0.44-0.90) significantly improved OS, while AB (HR 0.93, 0.75-1.12) showed no significant OS benefit as compared to Sunitinib. NI and AB had significantly fewer grade ≥3 AE than sunitinib. No significant interaction was found by risk group, age, sex or prior nephrectomy. Significant interaction was found by PD-L1 expression(p<0.001), with significant PFS improvement in PD-L1 positive (HR 0.62, 0.53-0.73) but not in PD-L1 negative patients (HR 0.92, 0.81-1.05). Overall, RoB was low amongst included studies. Conclusions: AA improved PFS, NI improved OS, whereas PA improve both PFS and OS as compared to sunitinib monotherapy. However, no IMT combination was superior to other combinations. Cost effectiveness analysis will be reported separately.

Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Telemedicine Among Doctors in Karachi

Background Telemedicine is an affordable use of information and communication technology (ICT) to enable long-distance patient care and health care services. While the developed world continues to take advantage of this technology, its concept remains new to Pakistan. This study aims to assess the knowledge and perceptions regarding telemedicine among health care professionals in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods  This cross-sectional study was carried out among doctors employed in the public health sector in Karachi from June 2018 to August 2018. Data were collected using a self-designed well-structured questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale, built after an extensive literature review. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 22. Categorical data were reported as frequencies and percentages. Results A total of 224 doctors, working in the Department of Internal Medicine (27.6%), Pediatrics (9.8%), Cardiology (6.6%), Gynecology (5.35%), Neurology (5.8%), and other specialties (44.6%), participated in the study. A total of 80.7 % of the doctors were aware of the definition of telemedicine. A total of 28.1% of them believed telemedicine to be effective in providing faster medical care while 23.2% thought of it as a means of reducing the white coat syndrome. A total of 42.9% believed that telemedicine disrupts the doctor-patient relationship and causes a breach of patient privacy. A total of 34.8% of the doctors favored the idea of introducing national standards for practicing telemedicine while 33.5% of doctors also agreed that providing a legal explanation of telemedicine to patients was of paramount importance. Poverty and lack of education (90.6%) was thought to be the biggest barrier to the practice of telemedicine in the developing world. Conclusions The knowledge regarding telemedicine among doctors in Karachi was found to be average. However, the perceptions about and attitude towards the introduction and implementation of this new technology were welcomed by the majority of participants with an emphasis on increasing awareness. Conferences and workshops are needed to increase knowledge about telemedicine in Pakistan.

Innovation in evidence synthesis: A living systematic review of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer patients

80

Background: Several previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have attempted to summarize toxicity of Immune Checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, very soon after each one of these reviews has been published, it became outdated. ICIs are currently used in 14 different cancers and data is rapidly evolving from new clinical trials. A living Systematic review, which is defined as a systematic review that is continually updated to incorporate relevant new evidence as it becomes available, is necessary in this situations. Methods: In order to dynamically display content -- including textual data, tables, charts, and graphs – standard data formats and protocols were designed for various components of the systematic reviews carried out by researchers. Given these standardized formats, software was written to interpret this data and output the information in the appropriate format, such as a forest plot or data table. Finally, a dynamic interface that enables user inputs (such as which aspect of the meta-analysis to view) and displays the associated output was designed. The overall living Systematic Review infrastructure includes monthly literature searches, cumulative meta-analysis, and an online reporting platform. Results: We have developed a Living Systematic Review engine that can take in standardized data and reflect this data in an interactive, intuitive manner in the form of text, tables, and plots. This interface can also be manipulated via user input to organize and sort data tables or omit/highlight specific pieces of data. Conclusions: We have initiated the first living systematic review in immune-oncology that will be continuously updated, incorporating relevant new evidence as it becomes available, and will provide accurate and up to date toxicity estimates to support clinical decision making. The Living Systematic Review interface allows users to easily and intuitively access the most recent available clinical evidence on toxicity of ICIs.

Living systematic reviews: A novel mechanism for improving efficiency and quality of evidence synthesis in oncology

241

Background: In a rapidly moving field, such as cancer immunotherapy, where immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are used across 14 different tumor types, patients may receive suboptimal treatment or even be harmed if information on toxicity is not readily translated for use in clinical practice. Every single systematic review and meta-analysis which attempted to summarize toxicity of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) quickly became outdated. A living systematic review, which is defined as a systematic review that is continually updated to incorporate relevant new evidence as it becomes available, is necessary in this situation. Methods: The process of creating a living systematic review started with the creation of a comprehensive search designed by a librarian experienced in systematic reviews in collaboration with the study’s principle investigator. Search was constantly updated every 3 months and evidence is synthesized in a series of steps (microtasks) using a combination of human and augmented intelligence. A complete infrastructure is being developed and it includes automated cumulative meta-analysis and an online reporting platform which will constantly update information for clinicians and patients in a live manner. Results: We screened 6746 studies during Sep 2018-March 2019 and identified 6746 studies and we were able to successfully maintain up-to-date toxicity estimates for immune mediated adverse events over this period while maintaining the rigor of a conventional systematic review. Eventually, we will integrate the steps of LSR into one, user-friendly, semi-automated format which can independently provide accurate estimates and feed into and support a living guidelines platform through shared Application Programing Interface (APIs). Conclusions: LSRs are feasible, efficient, and when fully developed can reduce redundancy and waste in medical research, improve the quality of evidence, reduce human effort and support living and dynamic guidelines to facilitate truly informed shared decision making.

Solitary Splenic Tuberculosis in an Immunocompetent Child: A Case Report

Tuberculosis (TB) is a lethal infectious disease that still remains a major threat in developing countries. Solitary splenic tuberculosis is a rare entity and there have been very few cases of it reported in literature. It is mostly encountered in patients who have an immunocompromised state. It may occur with a myriad of non-specific presentations, making it complex to diagnose. Here, we report a case of an eight-year-old female, immunocompetent, who had complaints of fever, abdominal pain and chronic diarrhea. Laboratory data failed to provide any information about the final diagnosis. On physical examination, splenomegaly was present. Imaging studies were conducted with an abdominal ultrasound showcasing mild ascites, splenomegaly, with a homogeneous echo pattern and no focal mass. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen showed two hypodense areas in the subcapsular region of the spleen and extending into the capsule, suggestive of a tuberculous abscess with mesenteric lymphadenopathy. The diagnosis was further corroborated when the patient showed remarkable improvement on anti-tuberculous therapy. This is a very uncommon phenomenon, especially in an immunocompetent patient and hence, it is very important to keep this on the list of differentials especially in an area where TB is endemic.

Gender differences amongst board members of endocrinology and diabetes societies

PURPOSE

Although women's status has shown marked improvement over the years in many areas, women still face a gender bias, especially in the workforce. Despite the best efforts of organizations to promote diversity and equality, women still dominate the lower-paying administrative ranks while men continue to dominate at the executive level. The present study examines gender disparity in the leadership positions in the national and international endocrinology and diabetes societies across the globe.

METHODS

We first composed a list of Diabetes and Endocrinology societies from online databases, including the International Diabetes Federation, European Society of Endocrinology, and other similar online directories. The Scopus database author search was used to find the total number of publications, publication range (in years), h-indices, number of citations, and years of active research of each member.

RESULTS

Our study included 524 board members of whom 31.3% (164/524) were women. The institutional academic rank of 310 of the total board members was found. The proportion of women in higher-faculty ranks (Assistant Professor, Associate Professors, and Professors) is much lower than males. Female endocrinologists also have fewer publications, citations, and years of active research.

CONCLUSIONS

Endocrinology is becoming a female-predominant subspecialty of internal medicine. As women are becoming a more significant portion of the endocrinology workforce, it is imperative to study and mitigate gender differences and disparities to optimize the endocrinology workforce.

A living systematic review of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer patients: A novel platform for evidence synthesis in oncology

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Background: Several previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have attempted to summarize toxicity of Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, very soon after each one of these reviews has been published, it became outdated. ICIs are currently used in 14 different cancers and data is rapidly evolving from new clinical trials. A living Systematic review, which is defined as a systematic review that is continually updated to incorporate relevant new evidence as it becomes available, is necessary in this situations. Therefore, we performed an updated systematic review and a meta-analysis which will serve as a foundation of a living Systematic review. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane were searched to identify phase 2 and 3 RCTs of PD-1/PD-L1 ICIs. Included studies compared either immunotherapy alone or combination with existing standard of care treatment and reported data for AE’s of interest. DerSimonian-Laird random effects Meta-Analysis was performed to derive pooled odds Ratio (OR) estimates for AE’s of interest. An infrastructure of a living systematic review is being developed and it includes monthly literature searches, cumulative meta-analysis and an online reporting platform. Results: We screened 6746 studies and 31 phase 3 and 2 phase 2 RCTs (n = 21,421) were included in the analysis. 22 RCTs used PD-1/PD-L1 ICIs as a single agent and 11 as a combination therapy. Selected toxicity estimates are summarized in a table. Conclusions: The meta-analysis updates previously published toxicity estimates and provides additional information about the risk of toxicities in single versus combination regimens. We have initiated the first living systematic review in oncology that will be continuously updated, incorporating relevant new evidence as it becomes available, and will provide accurate and up to date toxicity estimates to support clinical decision making. [Table: see text]

Frequency and predictors of depression in congestive heart failure

Background

Depression in congestive heart failure (CHF) patients can increase morbidity and mortality. Given the ever-rising prevalence of CHF patients with depression, it is vital that we understand the predictors of depression in these patients to identify and better manage these patients. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency and predictors of depression in CHF patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. Patients with a diagnosis of CHF for more than 6 months based on signs and left ventricular ejection fraction <40% were included. Patients were interviewed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) consisting of nine items in line with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) - IV criteria to assess depression. Each item was scored from 0 to 3, and a PHQ-9 score of 10 or greater suggested clinical depression. Data were analyzed on SPSS, v22, and a p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Of 170 participants, 102 (60%) had depression. Among these 102 patients, 42% (n = 43) had mild depression, and the rest (n = 59) had moderate-to-severe depression. Predictors of depression were New York Heart Association stage 3 or 4 (p = 0.001), previous myocardial infarction (p = 0.001), living without a partner (p = 0.001), lack of a joint family system (p = 0.001), sedentary lifestyle (p = 0.001), aged 70 years or more (p = 0.01), and having been admitted in a hospital at least once in the past two months (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Depression is common among patients with CHF. It is associated with multiple factors and needs to be addressed and targeted urgently.

Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A review of the genetic basis, clinical features, and therapeutic options

Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL) is a recently identified high-risk subtype of B-lineage ALL (B-ALL), characterized by a gene expression profile similar to that of Philadelphia-positive (Ph+) ALL, but without the hallmark BCR-ABL1 oncoprotein. Ph-like ALL represents approximately 15% of childhood ALL and its frequency rises with age, peaking among adolescents, and young adults with B-ALL. This subtype is associated with adverse clinical features, persistence of minimal residual disease, and a poor prognosis despite modern chemotherapy regimens. While Ph-like ALL lacks the BCR-ABL1 fusion, it is characterized by a diverse spectrum of kinase fusions and cytokine receptor gene rearrangements that may be similarly amenable to molecularly targeted therapies. While survival rates for childhood ALL have drastically improved with intensive conventional chemotherapy, Ph-like ALL represents a novel paradigm of precision medicine in ALL. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of the clinical picture and genetic basis of Ph-like ALL and to illustrate how these findings can translate into tailored targeted therapies with the hopes of improving the outcomes of Ph-like ALL patients.

An update on classification, genetics, and clinical approach to mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL)

Mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL) is an uncommon diagnosis, representing only about 2-5% of acute leukemia cases. The blast cells of MPAL express multilineage immunophenotypic markers and may have a shared B/T/myeloid phenotype. Due to historical ambiguity in the diagnosis of MPAL, the genetics and clinical features of this disease remain poorly characterized. Based on the 2008 and 2016 World Health Organization classifications, myeloid lineage is best determined by presence of myeloperoxidase, while B and T lymphoid lineages are demonstrated by CD19 and cytoplasmic CD3 expression. MPAL typically carries a worse prognosis than either acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL). Given the rarity of MPAL, there is a lack of prospective trial data to guide therapy; treatment generally relies on ALL-like regimens followed by consolidation chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Here, we review the updated classification, biology, clinical features, and treatment approach to MPAL.

Therapeutic options for leukemic transformation in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms

Approximately 5-10% of patients with Philadelphia chromosome negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) comprising of essential thrombocythemia, polycythemia vera and primary myelofibrosis) experience transformation to acute myeloid leukemia (AML, ≥20% blasts). Treatment options for post-MPN AML patients are limited, as conventional approaches like standard chemotherapy, fail to offer long-term benefit. Median survival for secondary AML is ∼2.4 months. Post-MPN AML therefore represents an area of urgent clinical need. At present, allogeneic stem cell transplant (ASCT) following induction therapy is the best therapeutic option. Patients ineligible for ASCT are treated with hypomethylating agents. New agents under investigation include histone deacetylase inhibitors, JAKinhibitors and agents targeting the BRD4 protein. Combined treatment strategies involving these novel agents are being tested. In this review we present the current evidence regarding treatment options for post-MPN AML patients.

Prevalence and Barriers to Lung Cancer Screening in Karachi, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Smokers and Physicians

Background

Early detection of lung cancer using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) can potentially reduce morbidity and mortality. However, LDCT for lung cancer screening, especially in low income countries, has been underutilized. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and the potential personal, social, and economic barriers of lung cancer screening using LDCT.

Methods

A total sample of 156 smokers and 200 general physicians was collected during December 2016-February 2017 from community settings in Karachi, Pakistan. Two separate questionnaires were constructed to characterize participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding lung cancer screening. Screening-eligible smokers and physicians were asked to identify patient barriers to screening and were asked their opinion regarding most effective approach for increasing awareness of screening guidelines.

Results

The majority of smokers' (n=91, 58.3%) and physicians' (n=131, 65.7%) beliefs about the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) eligibility criteria were inconsistent with the actual recommendations. Major barriers to screening included financial cost, lack of patient counseling and health anxiety related to screening. Over two-thirds (n=105, 67.3%) of smokers were receptive to further information about LDCT screening, and half (n=78, 50.0%) favored one-on-one counseling by their physician, compared to other media. Only one-third (n=65, 33.3%) of physicians reported use of LDCT screening, although 54.5% (n=108) felt that screening implementation would be very effective in their practice.

Conclusion

LDCT screening is currently an uncommon practice in Pakistan. Financial cost, inadequate doctor-patient communication, and lack of awareness of guidelines among both patients and physicians are the major barriers in the utilization of LDCT screening.

Does use of isotretinoin rule out a career in flying?

AIM

To evaluate whether previous isotretinoin use induces permanent, measurable, and clinically significant abnormalities in night vision such that flying is precluded, and whether potential military and civilian commercial aviators should be screened routinely.

METHODS

A retrospective, non-interventional, consecutive case series of 47 individuals with a confirmed history of oral isotretinoin use were compared to 20 age and sex matched controls.

RESULTS

47 individuals (44 males and three females), age range 17-33, underwent Goldmann-Weekers dark adaptation (DA) and standard electroretinogram (ERG) according to ISCEV protocols. 34 patients showed no abnormality in any parameters. Two patients had abnormal DA and ERGs. The mean scotopic ERG b wave amplitude of the isotretinoin group was 496.5 microV (SD 51.3 microV) compared with 501.7 microV (62.3.1 microV) among the controls. The group mean a:b ratio was 0.55 (0.04) compared to 0.69 (0.08) in the controls.

CONCLUSION

Previous use of isotretinoin may have caused retinal toxicity in two subjects and laboratory evidence of night blindness in 11 further subjects. One subject had subclinical changes remaining in the ERG 96 months after cessation of isotretinoin. This may justify the directed use of electrophysiological screening in professions that are night vision critical.