Ethnomedicinal uses of plants for various diseases in the remote areas of Changa Manga Forest, Pakistan

Abstract This study aims at reporting the indigenous knowledge of the medicinal flora from the inhabitants of surroundings of the World’s largest artificial planted forest “Changa Manga”, Pakistan. Data were collected by direct interviews and group meetings from 81 inhabitants including 32 local healers having information regarding the use of indigenous medicinal plants over a period of one year. Different statistical tools were applied to analyze the data including Frequency citation (FC), Relative frequency citation (RFC), Use Value, Factor of informants consensus and fidelity level. This study reported 73 plant species belonging to 37 plant families and 46 genera. The majority of plant species belong to compositae family. The most commonly used medicinal plants were P. hysterophorus L., P. dactylifera L., S. indicum L, P. harmala L., P. emblica L., and A. indica A.Juss. The greatest number of species was used to cure gastrointestinal disorders. The highest fidelity level (68.18%) was of E. helioscopia to cure gastrointestinal disorders. Maximum fresh uses (17) were reported by C. dactylon (L.) Pars. While the highest number of species reporting fresh uses in similar number was 13. In this study, five novel plants are being reported for the first time in Pakistan for their ethnomedicinal worth. Our data reflect unique usage of the medicinal plants in the study area. The statistical tools used in the study proved useful in pointing the most important and disease category specific plants. High use value plant and the new reported medicinal plants might prove an important source of the isolation of pharmacologically active compounds.

Rehabilitation post-COVID-19: cross-sectional observations using the Stanford Hall remote assessment tool

INTRODUCTION

The multisystem COVID-19 can cause prolonged symptoms requiring rehabilitation. This study describes the creation of a remote COVID-19 rehabilitation assessment tool to allow timely triage, assessment and management. It hypotheses those with post-COVID-19 syndrome, potentially without laboratory confirmation and irrespective of initial disease severity, will have significant rehabilitation needs.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of consecutive patients referred by general practitioners (April-November 2020). Primary outcomes were presence/absence of anticipated sequelae. Binary logistic regression was used to test association between acute presentation and post-COVID-19 symptomatology.

RESULTS

155 patients (n=127 men, n=28 women, median age 39 years, median 13 weeks post-illness) were assessed using the tool. Acute symptoms were most commonly shortness of breath (SOB) (74.2%), fever (73.5%), fatigue (70.3%) and cough (64.5%); and post-acutely, SOB (76.7%), fatigue (70.3%), cough (57.4%) and anxiety/mood disturbance (39.4%). Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 were 69% and 63% less likely to have anxiety/mood disturbance and pain, respectively, at 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Rehabilitation assessment should be offered to all patients suffering post-COVID-19 symptoms, not only those with laboratory confirmation and considered independently from acute illness severity. This tool offers a structure for a remote assessment. Post-COVID-19 programmes should include SOB, fatigue and mood disturbance management.

Abstract P4-01-16: High levels of RSK2 in breast cancer patients is associated with longer PFS in patients treated with PMD-026, a first in class RSK inhibitor

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy in women and metastatic triple negative breast cancer (mTNBC) remains one of the most difficult to treat cancers with few targeted treatment options. RSK is recognized as a critical signaling component in the MAPK/PDK-1 pathways, is an important driver for BC and a signature of poor prognosis. PMD-026 is the first RSK inhibitor to enter clinical trials and is being developed alongside an immunohistochemistry (IHC) companion diagnostic to select patients with increased activated RSK2 in tumor tissue. A Phase 1/1b trial of PMD-026 in patients with metastatic breast cancer (mBC) or metastatic triple negative breast cancer (mTNBC) established safety at a dose of 200 mg Q12h. Efficacy signals in patients with heavily pretreated mBC/mTNBC are explored in this analysis along with evaluation of the effect of food (FE) on systemic exposure to treatment. Methods: PMD-026 was administered to 41 patients as a single agent in this phase 1/1b open-label study, with 30 patients evaluable for efficacy. Exploratory objectives were to identify subgroups of patients who may optimally benefit from PMD-026. Subgroup analysis of patients included 1) comparing BC patients who received ≤5 vs >5 prior therapies; 2) comparing TNBC patients (de novo vs secondary subtypes)1, and 3) comparing patients with low RSK2 H-scores (< 180) vs high (≥180). In addition, PMD 026 PK was evaluated at the 200 mg Q12h dose and a FE sub-study enrolled 12 patients administered a single 200 mg dose. Results: PMD-026 monotherapy was generally well-tolerated in the 41 mBC patients who were enrolled and treated. Kaplan-Meier PFS analysis of 30 evaluable BC patients who were dosed with PMD-026 showed that patients with less prior therapy (≤5) did significantly better (HR, 0.19; 95% CI [0.06–0.52], p=0.0014) than those with > 5 prior therapies. Subgroup analysis of PFS in those with TNBC demonstrated that de novo TNBC (n=17) had longer time on treatment with PMD-026 compared with secondary TNBC (n=9) (HR, 0.31; 95% CI [0.10-0.99], p=0.0476). In those with de novo TNBC with ≤5 prior therapies, a high RSK2 H-score was associated with significantly longer PFS at the RP2D (4.2 vs 1.3 months, HR, 0.17; 95% CI [0.03-0.80], p=0.0254) than patients with a low RSK2 H-score. In patients with CDK4/6 resistant HR+ BC (n=3), PFS was 5.2 (RSK2 high) vs 1.3 months (RSK2 low). Stable disease was observed in 53% (9/17) of patients with de novo TNBC and in 67% (6/9) of de novo TNBC patients with high RSK2. Tumor necrosis or target lesion reduction (< 30%) was observed in 17% of patients (5/30), all of whom had high RSK2 expression. In the FE sub-study, increased interpatient variability in PMD-026 Cmax and Tmax but not AUC, was observed when administered with food, favored dosing in a fasted state, which is consistent with the pH dependent solubility of PMD-026. Notably, all FE patients (12/12) achieved the target concentration of 1µM (IC90 in preclinical studies) within 4 hours when PMD-026 was taken without food. At the RP2D, PMD-026 taken without food showed relatively consistent exposure among patients over 24 hr timeframe. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that in patients treated with PMD-026 who had received < 5 prior treatment regimens, had de novo TNBC or CDK4/6 refractory HR+ disease and had high RSK2 scores had longer PFS. Overall, PMD-026 is a well-tolerated, orally available RSK2 inhibitor that will be evaluated further for efficacy in TNBC and CDK4/6i refractory HR+ mBC, in a trial that will prospectively enroll patients based on RSK2 activation as defined by the RSK2 IHC H-scores. Clinical trial information: NCT04115306. 1 Patients diagnosed and treated for TNBC from their initial diagnosis (de novo TNBC) vs patients previously treated for hormone receptor positive (HR+) or human epidermal growth factor 2 receptor positive (HER2+) BC, but became HR or HER2 negative (secondary TNBC)

Citation Format: Judy S. Wang, Muralidhar Beeram, Pavani Chalasani, Lida Mina, Rebecca A. Shatsky, Sara Hurvitz, Meghna S. Trivedi, Robert Wesolowski, Hyo S. Han, Amita Patnaik, Shakeela Bahadur, My-my Huynh, Aarthi Jayanthan, Gerrit Los, Sandra E. Dunn, Andrew Dorr. High levels of RSK2 in breast cancer patients is associated with longer PFS in patients treated with PMD-026, a first in class RSK inhibitor [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-01-16.

Changing characteristics of post-COVID-19 syndrome: Cross-sectional findings from 458 consultations using the Stanford Hall remote rehabilitation assessment tool

BACKGROUND

In the UK, there have been multiple waves of COVID-19, with a five-tier alert system created to describe the transmission rate and appropriate restrictions. While acute mortality decreased, there continued to be a significant morbidity, with individuals suffering from persistent, life-restricting symptoms for months to years afterwards. A remote rehabilitation tool was created at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) Stanford Hall to assess post-COVID-19 symptoms and their impact on the UK military.This study aims to understand changes in post-COVID-19 syndrome between wave 1 and wave 2, identify interactions between alert level and symptoms and investigate any predictive nature of acute symptoms for postacute symptomology in a young, physically active population.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 458 consecutive remote rehabilitation assessments performed at DMRC Stanford Hall between 2 April 2020 and 29 July 2021. Consultations were coded, anonymised, and statistical analysis was performed to determine associations between acute and postacute symptoms, and between symptoms, alert levels and waves.

RESULTS

435 assessments were eligible; 174 in wave 1 and 261 in wave 2. Post-COVID-19 syndrome prevalence reduced from 43% to 2% between the waves. Acutely, widespread pain was more prevalent in wave 2 (p<0.001). Postacutely, there was increased anxiety (p=0.10) in wave 1 and increased sleep disturbance (p<0.001), memory/concentration issues (p<0.001) and shortness of breath/cough (p=0.017) in wave 2. Increasing alert level was associated with increased postacute symptom prevalence (p=0.046), with sleep disturbance increasing at higher alert level (p=0.016). Acute symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbance and myalgia, were associated with multiple postacute symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reports the overall prevalence and symptom burden in the UK military in the first two waves of COVID-19. By reporting differences in COVID-19 in different waves and alert level, this study highlights the importance of careful assessment and contextual understanding of acute and postacute illnesses for individual management plans.

Epidemiology and impact of frailty in patients with atrial fibrillation in Europe

BACKGROUND

Frailty is a medical syndrome characterised by reduced physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors. Data regarding the relationship between frailty and atrial fibrillation (AF) are still inconsistent.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to perform a comprehensive evaluation of frailty in a large European cohort of AF patients.

METHODS

A 40-item frailty index (FI) was built according to the accumulation of deficits model in the AF patients enrolled in the ESC-EHRA EORP-AF General Long-Term Registry. Association of baseline characteristics, clinical management, quality of life, healthcare resources use and risk of outcomes with frailty was examined.

RESULTS

Among 10,177 patients [mean age (standard deviation) 69.0 (11.4) years, 4,103 (40.3%) females], 6,066 (59.6%) were pre-frail and 2,172 (21.3%) were frail, whereas only 1,939 (19.1%) were considered robust. Baseline thromboembolic and bleeding risks were independently associated with increasing FI. Frail patients with AF were less likely to be treated with oral anticoagulants (OACs) (odds ratio 0.70, 95% confidence interval 0.55-0.89), especially with non-vitamin K antagonist OACs and managed with a rhythm control strategy, compared with robust patients. Increasing frailty was associated with a higher risk for all outcomes examined, with a non-linear exponential relationship. The use of OAC was associated with a lower risk of outcomes, except in patients with very/extremely high frailty.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort of AF patients, there was a high burden of frailty, influencing clinical management and risk of adverse outcomes. The clinical benefit of OAC is maintained in patients with high frailty, but not in very high/extremely frail ones.

Traditional knowledge about medicinal plant in the remote areas of Wari Tehsil, Dir Upper, Pakistan

Traditional medicine is cheaper and easily available to local people, to care for most frequent diseases in the Northern parts of Pakistan. Our study aimed at inventorying medicine from local plants, documenting their uses, and assessing their market value in 2015-2018 during spring, summer, and winter seasons. A total of 15 trips were made, 5 in each season. Semi-structured interviews with 165 inhabitant's age range between 20-80 years were conducted, analyzed the data is analyzed using Relative frequency of citation(RFC), Use Value(UV), Fidelity Level(FL), Informants consensus factor(ICF), and Jaccard index(JI) to find the most frequent and well-known used species in the area. A total of 86 species belonging to 39 vascular plant families, 33 genera were documented as medicinally important. Family Asteraceae was observed as the dominant family among all the families with 10 species, the leaf was the most used parts and decoction 36% was the most preferred preparation type. Herb was the predominant life form (67%). The maximum UV (0.92) was demonstrated by J. adhatoda L. species, while A. sativum L. shows maximum RFC (0.58), the highest ICF value represented by diarrhea and dermatitis 0.92, and high FL value is recorded 100%. According to our collections, wild species were 45%, invasive species were 38% and cultivated 17% recorded, dicots species were recorded more 81%. Seven 7 medicinal species is being economically important and export to the local and international market of the world, whereas P. integrima L. species were the most exported species according to the local dealers. The investigated area is rural and the local people depend on the area's plants for their health needs, and other uses like a vegetable, fuelwood, fodder, etc. The current result of RFC, UV, ICF, FL, and JI shows that medicinal flora needs to be pharmacologically and phytochemically investigated to prove their efficacy. The documentation of medicinal knowledge is important to preserve this precious old knowledge before it is lost forever, due to technological and environmental changes in the world.

WP1-12 Reducing infection rates in an intrathecal baclofen service; closing the audit cycle

Objectives

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is a recognised treatment strategy for the management of spasticity. We have 30 years of experience, and 160 patients currently receiving treatment.

Design

An audit (Jan 13 – Jul 15) demonstrated complication rates of 4.4% (infection) and 4.92% (catheter). After this we recommended 1 vancomycin wash of the pump pocket, 2 occlusive dressing of pressure sores, 3 timely MRSA pre-screening, and this was introduced June-August 2016. We present a re-audit of the service.

Subjects

All patients admitted for ITB pump surgery between June 2016 and June 2018.

Methods

The database of patients was used, from which the patient notes were reviewed with information relating to each surgical procedure recorded.

Results

There were 92 surgical procedures and 78 patients (M 30, F 48). 12 patients had complications, requiring 18 surgical procedures. Out of 18 surgical procedures, 10 were catheter- and 7 pump-related). Our infection rate was lower at 1% of all surgeries (compared with 4.4%), or 0.6% of all ITB pump patients per year (compared with 3.4%), and our catheter complication rate was 6.25% of all patients per year. Our annual incidence rate of all complications was 5.6% in both groups.

Conclusions

The infection risk is lower and complication rate remains stable. We will discuss factors which may influence the risk of complication, and consider recommendations for the future.

Clinical study of extrapulmonary head and neck tuberculosis in an urban setting

Tuberculosis (TB) of the head and neck region is quite common in endemic countries, but is still misdiagnosed due to its varied presentation and different sites of involvement. The aims of the present study were to present the diversities of presentation of head and neck tuberculosis with the diagnostic predicaments faced during evaluation and to assess treatment response to anti-tubercular treatment (ATT). We analysed 48 patients with head and neck tuberculosis who presented to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology in our tertiary care urban hospital over a period of two years from 2013 to 2015 and recorded their data, which included presenting complaints, local and systemic examination findings, investigation results and treatment outcomes. The results showed that majority (64.5%) of cases were female and none of the patients were HIV positive. The most common manifestation was cervical lymphadenopathy (81.25%) with level II being the most commonly affected (31.3%). Three of the 48 patients had coexisting pulmonary TB. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), histopathological diagnosis and acid fast bacilli (AFB) staining were used to confirm diagnosis. All patients were treated with Category I ATT, which achieved cure in 96.8% of cases. Though cervical lymphadenitis is the most common presentation of head and neck TB, isolated involvement of the sinonasal region, larynx, oral cavity and other sub-sites are not solely unknown entities. It is, therefore, important for clinicians to be aware of atypical and misleading presentations and consider TB as a major differential diagnosis in the head and neck region, even in non-immunocompromised individuals.

Estimation of genetic distance based on RAPDs between 11 cotton accessions varying in heat tolerance

The genetic distance of 11 cotton genotypes varying in heat tolerance was studied using RAPD markers. Fifty-three random decamer primers were used for the estimation of genetic distance. Among the 53 RAPD primers, which were custom synthesized by GeneLink Inc., UK, 32 were polymorphic and 21 were monomorphic. The 32 polymorphic primers produced 273 fragments, with a mean of 8.3 fragments per primer. The number of polymorphic bands produced in the 11 cotton accessions ranged from 1 to 31. Primer GLC-20 produced 31 polymorphic bands, while two primers, GLB-5 and GLC-12, produced one polymorphic band each. A range of 88.89 to 42.48% genetic similarity was observed among the 11 cotton accessions. The highest genetic similarity was observed between FH-945 and BH-160 (88.89%), whereas the lowest value was found between NIAB-801/2 and FH-945 (42.48%). Unique amplification profiles were produced by most of the cultivars; the differences were sufficient to distinguish them from other genotypes. This confirms the efficacy of RAPD markers for the identification of plant genotypes. An accumulative analysis of amplified products generated by RAPDs was sufficient to assess the genetic diversity among the genotypes. This information should be helpful for formulating breeding and genome mapping programs.

Abstract PD09-08: Obesity in Long-Term Disease Free Survivors of Invasive Breast Cancer

Background: As the number of breast cancer survivors increases due to improvements in screening and treatment for breast cancer, there is a particular interest in identifying lifestyle factors associated with long-term survival. Obesity may be one of the modifiable risk factors that can play a role in the outcome of breast cancer patients however studies shown controversial results. Besides, little is known about the role of obesity in long-term survivors. The objective of this study is to examine the role of obesity in breast cancer patients who remained disease free at least 5 years after diagnosis.

Methods: We reviewed the medical records of all women with invasive breast cancer diagnosed at LSUHSC between 1980 and 2005. The patients with stage IV breast cancer at diagnosis were excluded from the analysis. For this study we selected patients whom were disease free at least five years after the breast cancer diagnosis. We classified our patients by body mass index (BMI) at the time of breast cancer diagnosis into: normal weight (BMI &lt;25 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25-29 kg/m2), and obese (BMI &gt;30 kg/m2). Data on demographics clinical characteristics, tumor characteristic, breast cancer therapy, and relapse were analyzed within BMI classes. Results: A total of 967 patients were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 1980 and 2005. Out of those 49% were African American, 29% were overweight, and 49% were obese. From this population 597 (62%) patients were disease free more than 5y: 217 (49%) obese, 113 (26%) overweight, 112 (25%) normal weight. Obese breast cancer survivors in comparison to overweight and normal weight survivors were more likely to: be African American (61%, P&lt;0.01), received Medicaid coverage (14.2%, p=0.05) and to have lower rates of mastectomy (p=0.017). There was not difference in tumor characteristics (ER status, Nodal status, Tumor size) and adjuvant treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy) between obese and non-obese patients. One hundred and ten patients (19%) developed a recurrence 5 years after diagnosis (48 obese and 33 overweight): 65 local (48 obese and 33 overweight) and 45 systemic (21 obese and 10 overweight).

Discussion: Our study has some limitations typical of retrospective studies and the generalization of the results may be limited. Our analysis suggests that in long-term disease free survivors obesity and race might be associated. To further clarify the role of obesity in long-term breast cancer survivors prospective studies with long term follow up are warranted.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr PD09-08.

Abstract P6-09-07: Obesity; Not Associated with Risk of Second Malignancy in Early Stage Breast Cancer

Introduction: Early diagnosis and effective local and systemic therapy has reduced the risk of relapse and death from breast cancer; thus, patients are living longer but experience an increased risk for the development of a second malignancy (SM). Risk factors for SM may be genetic, related to environmental or behavioral factors or to breast cancer treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy or hormone therapy. Controversy exists over the role of obesity and breast cancer outcomes, and there is little information on long term survivors. LSUHSC Shreveport provides care for a predominantly indigent population with high rates of obesity. This allows us to study the role of obesity and risk of SM after breast cancer diagnosis. In this study, we sought to determine the incidence and risk factors for SM in women after treatment for early stage breast cancer. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients treated for invasive breast cancer from 1980 through 2006 at LSUHSC Shreveport. Patients with stage IV at diagnosis were excluded. Second malignancy was defined as a new diagnosis of primary malignancy at least three months after initial breast cancer diagnosis. We reviewed the demographics, smoking status, BMI at diagnosis of breast cancer, tumor characteristics, breast cancer treatments (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy) and site and date of second malignancies. Descriptive statisticswere performed to characterize the group of patients who developed a SM and Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to estimate the relative risk of development of SM.

Results: Of the 1214 patients analyzed, 118 (9.72%) patients developed a SM: 54% (n=64) breast cancer, 12.7% (n=15) gynecologic cancer, 8.5% (n=10) GI malignancy, 6.8% (n= 8) lung cancer, 6.8% (n=8) hematologic malignancy and 11% (n=13) various miscellaneous cancers. The median time for the development of SM was 7.6 years. The risk for development of SM increased with longer follow up: the risk at 5 years after breast cancer diagnosis was 2.3%, at 10 years was 10% and at 20 years was 30%. Patients with SM in comparison with patients without it were more likely to be obese (57%, p=0.05) and to have received radiotherapy (60%, p=0.01). No differences were observed with age at diagnosis, race, smoking status, use of chemotherapy, ER status, or use of hormone therapy. In a multivariate analysis using the Cox regression model, after adjusting for race, age, smoking status, use of chemotherapy and ER status, radiotherapy was a significant predictor of SM (HR=2.8, p=0.01). Obesity was not associated with an increased risk of SM (HR=0.91, p=0.82). Conclusions: Our study has some limitations typical of retrospective studies and the generalization of the results may be limited. We found that obesity at diagnosis of breast cancer did not adversely affect the rate of SM while radiotherapy represents a significant risk factor. Further studies are needed to define the role of lifestyle and cancer treatments on develop of SM in patients with early stage breast cancer.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-09-07.

Formulation and evaluation of omeprazole tablets for duodenal ulcer

Omeprazole pellets containing mucoadhesive tablets were developed by direct punch method. Three mucoadhesive polymers namely hydroxypropylemethylcellulose K4M, sodium carboxy methylcellulose, carbopol-934P and ethyl cellulose were used for preparation of tablets which intended for prolong action may be due to the attachment with intestinal mucosa for relief from active duodenal ulcer. Mucoadhesive tablets were coated with respective polymer and coated with Eudragit L100 to fabricate enteric coated tablets. The prepared tablets were evaluated for different physical parameters and dissolution study were performed in three dissolution mediums like 0.1N hydrochloric acid for 2h, pH 6.5 and pH 7.8 phosphate buffer solution for 12hr. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose showed above 95% release within 10 h where as carbopol-934P showed slow release about 88% to 92% over a period of 12 h. having excellent mucoadhesive strength but ethyl cellulose containing tablets showed less than 65% release. The release mechanism of all formulation was diffusion controlled confirmed from Higuchi's plot. Thus, the present study concluded that, carbopol-934P containing mucoadhesive tablets of omeprazole pellets can be used for local action in the ulcer disease as well as for oral controlled release drug delivery.

Concomitant chemoradiation versus radical radiotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of oropharynx and nasopharynx using weekly cisplatin: a phase II randomized trial

BACKGROUND

To know the effectiveness and tolerance of weekly cisplatin added to radiotherapy (RT) in advanced carcinoma of oropharynx and nasopharynx.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Stage II-IV cancer patients were randomly assigned to either radical RT, 70 Gy/35 fractions over 7 weeks (RT arm), or chemoradiotherapy (CRT), cisplatin 40 mg/m² weekly for seven doses plus RT. Primary end points were (i) the responses, (ii) toxicity profile, and (iii) overall survival (OS) in two groups. Study period was from June 2003 to July 2005.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-three patients were randomly allocated to the study, 76 in RT arm and 77 in CRT arm. Seventy-one in each arm completed the planned treatment; complete response (CR): 67.1% versus 80.5% in RT and CRT arms (P = 0.04). Grade III and IV toxicity were 16% and 40% in RT and CRT arms, respectively (P = 0.01). There were frequent treatment interruptions (9.3% versus 28.9%; P = 0.003) and hospitalization (20% versus 40.8%) in the CRT group. OS was superior in the CRT arm (P = 0.02): 27 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 15.2-36.8] for RT versus not reached for CRT. Three-year OS was 42% for RT and 62% for CRT group. CRT and CR were independent prognostic factors.

CONCLUSION

This trial on Indian head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients confirms that the use of weekly cisplatin is safe and CRT is superior to RT alone resulting in higher OS.

Abstract 5385: Thymoquinone(TQ) and cisplatin(CDDP) in a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) xenograft model

Introduction:

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death in United States. The most active chemotherapeutic agent for NSCLC is Cisplatin. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the bioactive constituent of the volatile oil of The Black Caraway seed also known as (Nigella Sativa, Ranunculaceae family) and has been shown to have anti-neoplastic activities. Based on our intvitro data we combined CDDP and TQ in a mouse xenograft model using NSCLC cell line NCI-H460.

Materials and Methods:

a) Cisplatin at 2.5mg/kg was prepared weekly by dissolving in PBS. Cisplatin was injected i.p. once a week for three weeks.

b) TQ was prepared in concentrations 5mg/kg or 20mg/kg and dissolved in solvent of cremophor: alcohol: PBS in a ratio (1:1:4) and injected subcutaneous M, W, F for 3 weeks.

These doses were selected based on an earlier Maximum tolerated dose (MTD) study.

5-6 weeks old female SCID mice were obtained from harlan laboratories and were placed under pathogen free conditions in animal care facility according to LSU, Shreveport animal care guidelines. Animal protocol was reviewed and approved by animal care committee. NCI-H460 2×10^6 cells were injected subcutaneous into right flank after shaving that area. Tumors were allowed to grow for one week and when tumor volume reached approximately 20mm3 mice were randomized to 6 groups with 10 mice in each group. Tumor volume was calculated using the formula V= (LxW2) x 0.5 where V= volume, L= length, W=width.

c) Treatment groups: Mice were randomized into following 6 groups (n=60) treated as described above for 3 weeks.

1) Control

2) TQ 5mg/kg s.c. M,W,F

3) TQ 20mg/kg s.c. M,W,F

4) Cisplatin 2.5mg/kg i.p. Monday

5) Combination (1): Cis2.5mg/kg/TQ5mg/kg

6) Combination (2): Cis 2.5mg/kg/TQ20mg/kg.

Tumor volume and body weight was measured M, W, F for three weeks during the course of study. At (Day 26) mice were sacrificed and tissue samples were obtained for histological analysis

Statistical analysis:

For statistical analysis we used factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a p value of &lt; 0.05 taken as significant.

Results:

Results show that TQ alone at 5mg/kg s.c. M,W, F had no effect on reducing tumor volume in fact mean tumor volume was higher as compared to control but not statistically significant.

TQ alone at 20mg/kg was active and reduced tumor volume (p 0.075). Cisplatin alone at 2.5mg/kg reduced tumor volume significantly (p &lt;.0001). This effect was seen in combination arms too with significant inhibition of tumor volume by combination of TQ at 5mg/kg and 20mg/kg along with CDDP (p value of 0.036 and 0.0016)

In the combination arm (TQ5mg/kg/Cis 2.5mg/kg) tumor volume was reduced by 59% and (TQ20mg/kg /Cis 2.5mg/kg) tumor volume was reduced T.V by 79% as compared to control.

Conclusion:

TQ alone and in combination with CDDP significantly reduces tumor volume in a NSCLC mouse xenograft model and should be considered for future clinical development.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5385.

Significance of promoter hypermethylation of p16 gene for margin assessment in carcinoma tongue

BACKGROUND

Loss of p16 expression by promoter hypermethylation has been reported as an early event in the development of oral cancer. The aim of our study was to explore the prognostic implications of presence of promoter hypermethylation of p16 gene in surgical margins in carcinoma tongue.

METHODS

A prospective analysis of 38 patients with resectable carcinoma tongue was carried out. DNA from tumor and the surgical margins was assessed by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. Follow-up duration was 17 to 37 months.

RESULTS

About 86.8% of tumors showed promoter hypermethylation of p16 gene. Out of 30 patients with histologically free margins, 43.3% showed positivity on molecular assessment. Patients with positive molecular margins had a 6.3-fold increased risk of having local recurrence as compared to patients with negative margins.

CONCLUSION

Promoter hypermethylation of p16 gene may serve as a useful molecular marker for predicting local recurrence in carcinoma tongue.

Changes in ventilatory function following surgery for bilateral abductor paralysis

Management of bilateral vocal fold immobility continues to remain a challenge for the Otolaryngologist who attempts to create a balance between creation of an adequate airway and preservation of voice. The flow volume loop obtained by spirometry provides an ideal objective assessment tool to evaluate the results of surgery for this condition. Our experience in using peak inspiratory flow rate (PIFR) and forced inspiratory flow with 50% of vital capacity (FIF(50)) in the lung in assessing the results of surgery is described. Seventeen patients were included in the study. The surgical procedures performed included laser posterior cordectomy with partial arytenoidectomy, endoscopic arytenoidectomy and posterior cordectomy-Kashima's technique. Twelve out of 17 patients were successfully decannulated, a success rate of 70.6%. All patients except one showed an increase in mid-inspiratory flow rates and peak inspiratory flow rates. The mean increase in FIF(50) was 0.44 l/sec (52.6%) and the mean increase in PIFR was 0.41l/sec (39.77%). No statistically significant difference in improvement of inspiratory flow rates was observed between the three surgical procedures used in the study.

A randomized double-blind phase III study of efficacy of lactobacillus CD2 lozenges in preventing radiation- and chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients: Interim analysis

6008

Background: Oral mucositis is major toxicity in patients receiving RT with or without chemotherapy (CTRT) for squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (SCCHN). This compromises ones ability to tolerate and complete treatment. Interventions available till date to limit and restrict mucositis are unsatisfactory. This study was undertaken to test the efficacy of lactobacillus CD2 in rendering patients more tolerant to the anticancer therapy. Methods: Prospective randomized double blind phase III study. Inclusion criteria were: resectable SCCHN patients suitable for CTRT or radical RT, age group 18–70 years, KPS>70%, normal hematological and biochemical functions. Eligible patients were randomized to receive total of 6 lozenges (to be dissolved by itself in the mouth) of either study product or placebo daily from the day anticancer treatment was started until one week after completion of anticancer therapy. Randomization was done in block of 10 patients. Initially it was planned to enroll 150 evaluable patients but protocol was amended to have total of 200 patients, to have interim analysis after 150 evaluable patients. This would have α and β error of 0.05 and 0.20, respectively. RT was given as 70 Gy/ 35# over 7 weeks with cisplatin 40 mg/m2 weekly x 7. Study was started in January 2007. Primary end points are: percentage of patients able to complete anticancer treatment and incidence of grade 3 and 4 mucositis. Results: This analysis was carried out on first 150 evaluable patients (75 in each arm). 135 were stage III or IV. Forty one (54.7%) in study arm and 36 (48%) in placebo arm took lozenges as planned (p = 0.414). Sixty seven (89.3%) in study arm and 56 (74.7%) in placebo arm could complete anticancer treatment (two sided p = 0.023). Grade 3 and 4 mucositis was seen in 40 (55.6%) and 44 (58.9%) patients respectively in study product and placebo arms (two sided p = 0.062). Conclusions: Study met one of its primary endpoint. Significantly more patients could complete anticancer treatment in study product arm and there was reduction in incidence of grade III and IV mucositis. We expect final results to be available before meeting.

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Concomitant chemoradiation versus radiotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of oropharynx and nasopharynx using weekly cisplatin: Final result of a phase III trial

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Background: Studies have confirmed the role of concomitant chemoradiation (CTRT) in the treatment of advanced SCCHN, however, there is no large study reported from India. Consensus about type and schedule of the chemotherapy is unclear e.g. single agent Vs combination; daily/weekly/three weekly. This study was undertaken to know effectiveness of weekly Cisplatin (DDP). Methods: prospective randomized phase III study. 153 untreated stage II-IV oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal cancer patients were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment arm; Arm (A) Radical radiotherapy 70 Gy/ 35# over 7 weeks; Arm (B) CTRT; Cisplatin 40mg/m2 weekly for 6 doses beginning day 1 of radiation treatment plus radiotherapy as in arm (A). The objective endpoints were- to know (i) the responses, (ii) toxicity profile and (iii) overall survival in the two treatment groups. Protocol was approved by local ethics committee. Study period was from June 2003 to July 2005. Results: Number of patients were 76 (A) and 77 (B) in two arms respectively. CR was 70.7 Vs 78.9% in arm A and B. Toxicity- grade III and IV toxicities were 16% and 40% respectively in 2 arms (p=<0.05). There were more frequent interruptions (9.3% Vs 28.9%) and hospitalization (20% Vs 40.8%) (p=<0.05) in CTRT arm. Survival- with median follow up of 17 months overall survival was significantly higher in CTRT arm (p=0.024); 27 months (95%CI 15.2–36.8) for RT Vs not reached (NR) for CTRT group. Three year OS was 42% Vs 62% respectively. Conclusion: This trial confirms that CTRT using single agent weekly DDP is safe and superior to RT in advanced SCCHN but treatment interruptions and toxicities are of concern for developing country’s cancer care infrastructures.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

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Analysis of 2167 head and neck cancer patients' management, treatment compliance and outcomes from a regional cancer centre, Delhi, India

Head and neck cancer care was analysed in 2167 unselected patients for management compliance and outcome. Median age was 55 years, with a male to female ratio of 5.5ratio1. Major sites were oropharynx (32.4 per cent), larynx (19.8 per cent), oral (16.6 per cent) and hypopharynx (12.9 per cent). Stage-wise distribution was I-II=8.9 per cent, III=20.6 per cent and IV=60.3 per cent and unstaged=10.2 per cent. Squamous cell carcinoma was the dominant histology for 90.9 per cent. Clinic-based cancer-directed treatment decisions were made for 1905 patients: curative intent in 53 per cent, palliative in 35 per cent and for the remaining 262 (12 per cent) supportive care. Overall, 1209 (56 per cent) patients complied with the prescribed treatments; 62 per cent, 54 per cent, and 35 per cent of curative, palliative and supportive care intent groups, respectively. Modalities were radiotherapy alone (64.6 per cent), combined surgery with irradiation (17.6 per cent), and chemoradiotherapy (11.2 per cent). Median follow-up periods were 17.5 and three months in curative and palliative groups respectively. Overall, 712 (33 per cent) cases received curative therapy, with three-year disease-specific survival of 49 per cent. Patient compliance was a major obstacle. The comparison of this series with the USA, Canada and Norway showed wide disparities in stage of presentation and survival.

Improving outcomes in rhinocerebral mucormycosis - early diagnostic pointers and prognostic factors

Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is an uncommon, rapidly progressive, highly fatal sinus infection, usually occurring in immunocompromised hosts. We describe our clinical experience with nine such consecutive cases managed at our centre, with emphasis on identifying early diagnostic and prognostic features. Perinasal cellulitis/paraesthesia was the most frequent early clinical sign of disease, being evident in at least six cases. Periorbital oedema, mucopurulent rhinorrhoea and nasal crusting were the other early manifestations. Concurrent computed tomography (CT) scan at this initial stage however revealed only minimal mucosal thickening of the sinuses in all four cases wherein it was done. Intracranial extension as evident on CT was the only adverse prognostic sign (p<0.05). The present report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and prompt institution of antifungal chemotherapy in ensuring a favourable outcome in rhinocerebral mucormycosis. However, initial CT is frequently near-normal and biopsy time-consuming and often not feasible. To optimize early diagnosis therefore, the clinician should be highly alert to certain subtle clinical signs, in the appropriate setting of an immunocompromised patient.

Radiation related morbidities and their impact on quality of life in head and neck cancer patients receiving radical radiotherapy

Although 50-70% of head and neck cancer patients in India receive radiotherapy (RT), radiation-related acute and late morbidities and their impact on quality of life (QOL) are infrequently reported. Acute and late radiation morbidities and QOL were assessed in a prospective longitudinal study of 45 patients with head and neck cancers receiving radical RT to a dose of 7000 cGy in conventional fractionation. Grade II acute morbidities experienced by the largest percent of the sample during the course of RT pertained to the mucosa (66.4%), salivary gland (84%), and oesophagus (53%). These morbidities led to an increase in the symptom scores of appetite loss (76.46), fatigue (65.75) and pain (44.77). This increase in the symptom scores consequently led to a significant decline in physical, social and emotional functioning as well as global health status score during the course of RT (p < 0.001). Scores improved after 1 month of RT but did not reach the pre-RT value. Future studies may consider correlating QOL assessment to significant patient and disease related parameters such as performance status, weight loss, stage and site of disease.

Association of vitamin A, vitamin C and zinc with laryngeal cancer

BACKGROUND

The incidence of the cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus and larynx in different population groups of India is amongst the highest reported in Asian countries. There is evidence that high dietary carotenoids and vitamin C may possibly decrease the risk of laryngeal cancer. Limited data is available from India on the association between these micronutrients and the risk of laryngeal cancer.

AIMS

To assess the levels of vitamin A, vitamin C and zinc in laryngeal cancer patients and healthy controls.

SETTING AND DESIGN

A hospital based case- control study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred and fifty five laryngeal cancer patients and a control group of 155 healthy individuals constituted the study population. Individuals in the control group were individually matched with the patients for their age +/- 2 years, sex and place of residence. Venous blood was drawn from the cases and controls and estimations of vitamin A, zinc and vitamin C was done utilizing the standard procedures.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Paired 't' test to compare the mean serum levels of vitamin A and zinc and plasma vitamin C between laryngeal cancer patients and controls. Univariate logistic regression analysis to calculate the odds ratios and the confidence intervals.

RESULTS

The mean serum vitamin A, zinc and plasma vitamin C levels were significantly lower in laryngeal cancer patients as compared to the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the present study indicated a strong association of these micronutrients with laryngeal cancer in the Indian population.

Invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis: surgical decisions and dilemmas

Invasive aspergillosis, one of the common paranasal sinus fungal infections, often secondarily involves the orbit. We report six such cases with orbital extension, all occurring in apparently immunocompetent hosts, to specifically address the difficult diagnostic and therapeutic issues involved. Limited biopsy procedures were often inconclusive, necessitating wide surgical excision to establish the histopathological diagnosis. Conservative orbital debridement proved adequate for cases with disease limited to the infero-medial compartment of the orbit, but resulted in residual progressive disease in the two of the four cases with retro-orbital and apical extension. Orbital exenteration in this latter group, however, proved successful in controlling disease. The present report emphasizes the importance of near-complete extirpation and adjuvant chemotherapy in ensuring a favourable outcome in invasive Aspergillus infections. Orbital exenteration appears justified for posterior orbital disease, regardless of the functional status of the eye, but is inappropriate for anterior orbital disease.

Rhinitis caseosa, nasal cholesteatoma and allergic fungal sinusitis

The recently described Syndrome of Allergic Fungal Sinusitis (AFS) has many similarities with the previously described entity of rhinitis Caseosa (synonym-Nasal Cholesteatoma). 28 patients treated over a 6 year period with a diagnosis of rhinitis caseosa/nasal cholesieatoma have been retrospectively reviewed with regard to their clinical and radiological features, operative findings and microbiologic and histopathologual features.All cases presented with nasal obstruction and nasal polyposis. CT scanning indicated intracranil extension and intra-orbital extension m 9 cases each. Surgical debridetnent with establishment of sinus drainage led to the universal initial relief of symptoms in all cases. 26 of 28 cases have remained free of recurrence on prolonged follow-up (minimum follow-up one year).Despite these cases demonstrating clinical, radiologital, morphological and histological similarities with the Syndrome of Allergic Fungal Sinustitis, in only 2 cases was a fungal aetiology confirmed by history. The clinical syndrome of "Rhinitis Caseosa" is described and its relationship with the Allergic Fungal Sinusitis (AFS) syndrome and the "AFS-hke" Syndrome explored.

Disregulated expression of the Th2 cytokine gene in patients with intraoral squamous cell carcinoma

It has been seen that advanced stage oral squamous cell carcinoma is associated with impaired T-cell function and higher antibody response. In order to find out if such immune disregulation is associated with alteration of T-helper (Th) type CD4+ T-cell phenotype leading to altered cytokine production, we studied the Th-like cytokine profile in 35 oral squamous cell carcinoma patients and 21 normal controls. Concomitant expression of both Th1 and Th2 cytokine genes was studied by reverse transcription and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based amplification (RT-PCR) of mRNA extracted from freshly isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) using specific primers for Interferon (IFN)-gamma, Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4 and IL-10. Almost 63% of oral cancer patients showed polarization of a Th-like cytokine response as compared to 33% of the normal controls while 66.6% of normal controls showed a predominantly non-polarized Th0 response. Expression of IFN-gamma and IL-2 genes was more commonly seen in the early stage of the disease (p < 0.02) whereas majority of advanced stage tumours was associated with enhanced expression of IL-4 and IL-10 but not IFN-gamma and IL-2 genes. Patients with lymphnode metastases and poorly differentiated tumours expressed IL-4 and IL-10 more frequently with concomitant suppression of IFN-gamma and IL-2 genes. It seems therefore, that the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma leads to polarization of cytokine gene expression that is skewed towards the Th1-like response in the early stage. However, increasing tumour load and lymphnode invasion suppresses Th1 cytokine genes, thus skewing it toward a Th2-like cytokine response.

Interstitial brachytherapy with or without external beam irradiation in head and neck cancer: Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital experience

Iridium-192 interstitial brachytherapy is practiced infrequently in developing countries, even where head and neck cancer is a major neoplasm and the technique could provide good results. This report from India is presented as an audit to validate the benefit of brachytherapy. One hundred and six head and neck cancer patients were treated by interstitial brachytherapy alone (n = 29) or combined with external irradiation (n = 77). The oral cavity and the oropharynx together constituted 82% of the sites of implanted tumours; 75% were T(1-2)N0 status. Brachytherapy was carried out using afterloaded plastic catheters and the Paris dose prescription system was followed. External cobalt-60 beam portals covered the primary and the neck. The median duration of follow-up was 22 months. The median dose of brachytherapy used alone was 60 Gy. With combined treatment, the median external radiotherapy and brachytherapy doses were 50 Gy and 25 Gy respectively. The median brachytherapy dose rate was 0.5 Gy/h. Primary and nodal recurrences were recorded in 41/106 (38.7%) and 18/106 (17.0%) patients at median intervals of 15 and 13 months respectively. Implant site failure was more common after combined treatment than with brachytherapy alone (42.8% versus 27.5%), but it did not reach statistical significance in this analysis (P = 0.15). Kaplan-Meier actuarial 5-year estimates showed 52% and 87% disease-free and overall survivals. Iridium-192 interstitial implants in suitably selected head and neck cancer patients can improve the radiotherapeutic results, with the promise of organ conservation in 50%. In India, the practice should be established in more radiotherapy centres and could be utilized in 10,000-25,000 head and neck cancer patients annually.

Results of radiotherapy with, or without, salvage surgery versus combined surgery and radiotherapy in advanced carcinoma of the hypopharynx

There is considerable controversy surrounding the optimum treatment of advanced hypopharyngeal cancers. Curative radiotherapy with surgical salvage in reserve is an accepted protocol as is also a combined treatment of surgery and radiotherapy. The present study is a retrospective analysis of the survival results of 195 cases treated in a single centre. The combined surgery and radiotherapy group comprised a greater number of pyriform fossa and post-cricoid tumours whereas, the curative radiotherapy group had a higher proportion of posterior pharyngeal wall tumours. Actuarial two-year disease-free survival rates were significantly better with combined treatment when results of stage III and IV lesions (164 patients) of all sites are taken together, as compared to those obtained with curative radiotherapy without salvage (p = 0.000) or radiotherapy with surgical salvage for residual/recurrent tumours (p = 0.0021).

Expression of RARalpha and RARbeta in human oral potentially malignant and neoplastic lesions

Retinoids reverse potentially malignant lesions and inhibit the development of second primary cancers in patients with head-and-neck cancer. Many of the effects of retinoids result from modulation of gene expression by 2 distinct classes of nuclear receptor, RARs and RXRs; alterations in their expression can lead to tumorigenesis. To determine whether aberrations in expression of the receptors are related to the development of betel- and tobacco-related oral cancer, we used specific monoclonal antibodies against RARalpha and RARbeta to detect expression of these proteins in 30 histopathologically normal tissues, 45 potentially malignant lesions (leukoplakia) with histological evidence of either hyperplasia (31 cases) or dysplasia (14 cases) and 64 oral squamous-cell carcinomas (SCCs) by immunohistochemistry. Of the 30 normal oral tissues analysed, 8 cases showed detectable levels of RARalpha protein, while 10 cases did not show detectable RARbeta immunoreactivity. Immunostaining for RARalpha protein was observed in 12/31 (39%) hyperplastic lesions, 6/14 (43%) dysplastic lesions and 43/64 (67%) oral SCCs. Expression of RARalpha in oral SCC was significantly associated with the histological differentiation status of tumours (p = 0.016). In contrast, lack of detectable immunoreactivity was observed in 19/31 (61%) hyperplastic lesions, 8/14 (57%) dysplastic lesions and 21/64 (33%) oral SCCs. The hallmark of the study was the significant increase in RARalpha immunopositivity in oral SCCs compared to normal tissue (p = 0.0005) and hyperplastic lesions (p = 0.016). One intriguing feature was the significant decrease in RARbeta immunopositivity in hyperplastic lesions compared with normal oral mucosa (p = 0.05) as well as in oral SCCs compared with normal tissues (p = 0.0008).

Role of micro-nutrients and trace elements in carcinoma of larynx

Cancer of the larynx is fourteenth most common cancer in the world. Evidence from case-control studies conducted in developed as well as developing countries suggest that specific micro-nutrients and trace elements have been implicated to be significantly associated with laryngeal carcinoma. The association of these micro-nutrients and trace elements with laryngeal cancer has been discussed in this review article.

Role of lateral neck dissection in cancers of the larynx and hypopharynx with N(o) neck

Radical neck dissection is a standard procedure carried out for the teatment of palpable nodes in the neck but if carried out electively in cases where there are no palpable nodes in the neck it is considered to be an overtreatment with its associated morbity. Lateral neck dissection was carried out on twenty patients who had T31 T4 lesion of the larynx and hypophar-vnx with NO neck. The dissection entails removal of Level II. III and IV nodes. Occult metastasis 80% and 85% respectively. The mean follow up was 13 monts. It appears from our study that elective lateral neck dissection is a promising and safe procedure and may be useful as an important prognostic tool in sampling the lymph nodes and predicting recurrences in the neck.

Clinically staged T3N0M0 laryngeal cancer: how is it best treated? Definitive radiotherapy with salvage surgery v/s combined surgery and radiotherapy

Controversy surrounds the optimum treatment of T3N0 cancer larynx. Curative radiotherapy with salvage surgery in reserve is an accepted methodology as is also a combined protocol of surgery and radiotherapy. A retrospective analysis of the survival results of 119 cases of clinically staged T3N0 cancer larynx treated over a 14-year period at a single centre with either of the above two modalities has been undertaken. The selection of the treatment modality for an individual patient was decided jointly by the patient and the clinicians at a combined cancer clinic. The combined surgery plus radiotherapy treatment group was comprised of a relatively greater number of transglottic tumours while the curative radiotherapy group had a higher proportion of glottic tumours. Actuarial four-year disease-free survival rates were significantly better with combined treatment (79.3 per cent) than with radical radiotherapy and surgical salvage (65.3 per cent)--p value = 0.024. In the radical radiotherapy group, failure was almost always at the primary site and the probability of surviving with an intact larynx was approximately half of the total survival. As per this study, a policy of radical radiotherapy (with salvage surgery for failure) for unselected clinically staged T3N0 cancer larynx, does not provide for comparable cure rates or for satisfactory laryngeal preservation.

Temporal assessment of quality of life of head and neck cancer patients receiving radical radiotherapy

The study was undertaken to evaluate physical, psychological and functional aspects in quality of life (QoL) assessment prospectively in biopsy-proven head and neck cancer patients receiving radical radiotherapy. Fifty male patients were assessed using Karnofsky's Performance Status (KPS), Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Functional Living Index-Cancer (FLIC). Patient questionnaires were completed before radiotherapy, during 3-4 weeks of radiotherapy and 3 months after radiotherapy. Before the start of radiotherapy, KPS was 91 +/- 10.26, FLIC was 129.98 +/- 33.41 and BDI was 7.10 +/- 4.57. This indicated good performance and functional status with lower depression. In weeks 3-4 of radiotherapy, KPS (71.00 +/- 20.12) and FLIC (81.34 +/- 45.23) decreased, while BDI (16.56 +/- 9.01) increased, indicating impairment in QoL. Three months after radiotherapy, KPS (78.37 +/- 23.0), FLIC (119.51 +/- 43.62) and BDI (9.02 +/- 7.81) improved but were not restored to pre-treatment levels. When patients were scheduled for radical radiotherapy, maximum deterioration in QoL was seen in weeks 3-4. This is the time when maximum supportive care and psychologic counselling is required.

Telomerase activity in Indian patients with carcinomas of the aerodigestive tract

The activation of telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein maintaining telomeric length, might represent an additional required event in the multigenetic process of tumorigenesis in human cancer. To investigate whether telomerase activity is a prerequisite or a useful indicator of malignant potential, we assayed the enzyme in squamous cell carcinomas and tried to observe any correlation with clinical staging and histopathological grading. We have studied telomerase activity in 23 samples of squamous cell carcinomas of the aerodigestive tract and in 22 corresponding samples of adjoining tissues using the telomerase repeat amplification assay. Telomerase activity was detected in 100% of the tumor samples studied. The telomerase activity increased with tumor grading, but was not statistically significant. Low levels of enzyme activity were also detected in 60.86% of the adjoining normal tissue samples. Reactivation of telomerase may play an important role in the carcinogenesis of aerodigestive tract tumors. Detection of enzyme activity in the adjoining normal tissue is suggestive of microinvasion of tumor cells and/or early activation of telomerase in the progression towards cancer, before possible pathological identification.

Laryngeal preservation by treatment with induction chemotherapy and radiotherapy protocol for stage III & IV carcinoma larynx--results of a pilot study

Total laryngectomy for advanced carcinoma of the larynx is effective but functionally disabling. In an effort at laryngeal preservation, 33 patients of stage III/IV carcinoma larynx were treated between 1987 and 1991 with induction chemotherapy followed by definitive radiation. Two chemotherapy protocols were administered. Group I patients received one to three cycles of cisplatin 100 mg/m2 (day 1), bleomycin 15 U/m2 (day 1), and 5-fluorouracil 1000 mg/m2/day (day 2 to 5) at three weekly intervals. This was then followed by radiotherapy. Group II received one to six weekly injections of single agent methotrexate 50 mg/m2 with or without leucocovorin rescue followed by radiotherapy. Any recurrence was salvaged by surgery. Midway through the study, Group II protocol was discontinued as the initial results were not comparable with Group I or standard treatment. The Group I protocol, however, yielded an initial locoregional control rate of 83.3 per cent With the addition of surgical salvage the locoregional control rate was 94.4 per cent and the control rate with laryngeal preservation was 88.8 per cent. The Kaplan-Meier probability of two years and five years disease-free survival was 81.9 per cent and 61.4 per cent respectively. For disease-free survival with laryngeal preservation the corresponding figures for two years and five years were 58.3 per cent and 41.7 per cent. The control group of 51 patients treated with radical surgery followed by radiotherapy yielded survival figures at two years and five years of 64.3 per cent and 57.2 per cent. The difference in the survival of Group I and the control group was not statistically significant (p value = 0.280). These initial results indicate that for stage III and for surgically resectable stage IV laryngeal carcinomas, a protocol of induction combination chemotherapy consisting of cisplatin, bleomycin and 5-fluorouracil followed by radiotherapy and combined with surgical salvage whenever required, can lead to comparable cure rates. In addition, a large proportion of patients are spared the morbidity of a total laryngectomy.

Results of definitive radiotherapy in T1 and T2 glottic carcinoma: Institute of Rotary Cancer Hospital experience

Early glottic carcinomas (T1 and T2) constitute only 2% of all laryngeal cancers in our data. Seventy patients were seen between 1985 and 1992. All patients were treated by cobalt-60 small field radiotherapy using a beam directed shell. The total dose delivered was 60-65 Gy in 31 patients and 66-70 Gy in 39 patients. The follow-up period ranged from 5 to 126 months, with a mean follow up of 37 months overall and 55 months in the surgical salvage group. Radiation therapy controlled disease in 71% (50 of 70) of patients overall; 75% with T1 and 67% with T2 lesions. Total laryngectomy as salvage surgery was performed in 70% (14 of 20) of patients whose disease recurred. Ultimate control including surgical salvage occurred in 64 (91%) of 70 patients in the present study. The actuarial 5 year survival was 83 and 80% in T1 and T2 tumours, respectively (statistically insignificant). This report supports the policy of definitive irradiation, reserving surgical salvage for radiation failures in early laryngeal cancers.