Development and validation of algorithms for identifying lines of therapy in multiple myeloma using real-world data

Aim: To validate algorithms based on electronic health data to identify composition of lines of therapy (LOT) in multiple myeloma (MM). Materials & methods: This study used available electronic health data for selected adults within Henry Ford Health (Michigan, USA) newly diagnosed with MM in 2006-2017. Algorithm performance in this population was verified via chart review. As with prior oncology studies, good performance was defined as positive predictive value (PPV) ≥75%. Results: Accuracy for identifying LOT1 (N = 133) was 85.0%. For the most frequent regimens, accuracy was 92.5-97.7%, PPV 80.6-93.8%, sensitivity 88.2-89.3% and specificity 94.3-99.1%. Algorithm performance decreased in subsequent LOTs, with decreasing sample sizes. Only 19.5% of patients received maintenance therapy during LOT1. Accuracy for identifying maintenance therapy was 85.7%; PPV for the most common maintenance therapy was 73.3%. Conclusion: Algorithms performed well in identifying LOT1 - especially more commonly used regimens - and slightly less well in identifying maintenance therapy therein.

Retrospective chart review of transplant recipients with cytomegalovirus infection who received maribavir in the Phase 3 SOLSTICE trial: Data at 52 weeks post-maribavir treatment initiation

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a frequent complication in haematopoietic cell/solid organ transplant (HCT/SOT) recipients. Previous studies report all-cause mortality rates of 31% and 50% in HCT/SOT recipients post-treatment initiation with conventional anti-CMV therapies for refractory or resistant CMV.

METHODS

This was a multi-country, retrospective medical chart review study of HCT/SOT recipients with refractory CMV infection with or without resistance (R/R) who were randomized to the maribavir arm in the open-label Phase 3 SOLSTICE trial. Patients came from 21 SOLSTICE sites across 6 countries; each site randomized ≥3 patients to the maribavir arm. Patients were followed for 52 weeks (SOLSTICE trial period: 20 weeks; follow-up chart review period: 32 weeks). The primary outcomes were mortality and graft status.

RESULTS

Of 234 patients who were randomized and received maribavir in SOLSTICE, chart abstraction was completed for all 109 patients enrolled across 21 trial sites (SOT, 68/142; HCT, 41/92). At 52 weeks, overall mortality was 15.6% (17/109) and survival probability was 0.84. Among SOT recipients, survival probability was 0.96, and 3 (4.4%) deaths occurred during the chart review period. For the HCT recipients, survival probability was 0.65 with 14 (34.1%) deaths; 8 occurred during SOLSTICE and 6 during the chart review period. No new graft loss or re-transplantation occurred during the chart review period.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall mortality at 52 weeks post-maribavir treatment initiation in this sub-cohort of patients from the SOLSTICE trial was lower than that previously reported for similar populations treated with conventional therapies for R/R cytomegalovirus infection.

Evaluating meaningful changes in physical functioning and cognitive declines in metachromatic leukodystrophy: a caregiver interview study

BACKGROUND

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare lysosomal storage disease caused by deficient activity of arylsulfatase A (ASA). Treatment options for patients are limited; gene therapy based on haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only approved treatment for some subtypes of MLD. Any therapeutic benefit of treatments must be meaningful for patients and their families. We evaluated the clinical meaningfulness of slowing the decline in gross motor function as measured by the Gross Motor Function Classification in MLD (GMFC-MLD) from the caregiver perspective via semi-structured telephone interviews with caregivers of children with late-infantile MLD. We also evaluated the perceived significance of declines in communication abilities measured by the Expressive Language Function Classification in MLD (ELFC-MLD). This work could help to inform the endpoints of a phase 2 clinical trial (NCT03771898) assessing the efficacy of intrathecal recombinant human ASA in MLD.

RESULTS

Twelve caregivers were recruited, reporting on 12 children with MLD. Children had a mean age of 6.1 years; mean age at symptom onset was 17.6 months. Most children (10/12) progressed from walking without support (categories 0-1) to a loss of locomotion (categories 5-6) in ≤ 2 years. Caregivers felt that GMFC-MLD and ELFC-MLD accurately described motor and language declines in their children, respectively. Most caregivers (10/12) reported that the idea of delaying disease progression would be meaningful. Further, a slowing of motor function decline in GMFC-MLD, from category 1 to category 3 or from category 2 to category 4 over 2 years, was seen as meaningful by all caregivers asked; however, only 3/12 caregivers reported that delayed decline would be meaningful if baseline category was ≥ 3. Caregivers also reported that delaying expressive language decline at any level that did not indicate a complete loss of expressive language (indicated by categories 1-3) would be meaningful.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregivers of children with MLD felt that a delayed decline in gross motor function, as assessed by the GMFC-MLD, would be meaningful, supporting the selection of primary and secondary endpoints for the phase 2 clinical trial. Communication abilities were another area of significance for consideration in future clinical trial design.

Network meta-analysis for indirect comparison of lanadelumab and berotralstat for the treatment of hereditary angioedema

Aim: With no head-to-head studies comparing the effectiveness of lanadelumab and berotralstat for prevention of hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks, this network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to indirectly compare the effectiveness of these treatments. Materials & methods: The NMA, using the published data from Phase III trials, was performed using a frequentist weighted regression-based approach following Rücker et al. Efficacy outcomes of interest were HAE attack rate per 28 days and ≥90% reduction in monthly HAE attacks. Results & conclusion: In this NMA, lanadelumab 300 mg administered every 2 weeks or every 4 weeks was associated with statistically significantly higher effectiveness versus berotralstat 150 mg once daily (q.d.) or 110 mg q.d. for both efficacy outcomes assessed.

Duration of frontline therapy and impact on clinical outcomes in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients not receiving frontline stem cell transplant

BACKGROUND

Extended first-line therapy (1LT) has improved clinical outcomes in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). This retrospective study of NDMM patients evaluated the relationship between dose-attenuation of 1LT and duration of therapy (DOT) and DOT on outcomes.

METHODS

Adults with NDMM not undergoing stem cell transplant (SCT) from January 1, 2012 toMarch 31, 2018 from the Integrated Oncology Network were included; 300 were randomly selected for chart review. 1LT DOT, time to next treatment (TTNT), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Marginal structural models evaluated relationships between DOT and TTNT, PFS, and OS at 2 years accounting for confounders and survival bias from the time-dependent nature of DOT.

RESULTS

Of 300 chart-reviewed patients, 93 were excluded for incomplete data or meeting exclusion criteria. Among 207 NDMM patients, median age was 74 years; 146 (70.5%) did not receive dose-attenuation during 1LT. Patients with short DOT were older, frailer, with a higher comorbidity burden, and a significantly lower proportion had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group PS = 0. As DOT increased, more patients underwent dose-attenuation (p < 0.0001). The median 1LT DOT was 20.9 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 13.9, 26.4) versus 4.2 months (95% CI: 3.2, 4.9) for patients receiving versus not receiving dose-attenuation, respectively (p < 0.0001). After accounting for survival bias, confounder-adjusted TTNT was prolonged with each additional month of 1LT (odds ratio [OR]: 0.76 [95% CI: 0.75, 0.78]); likelihoods of risks of disease progression (OR: 0.87 [95% CI: 0.86, 0.88]) and death at 2 years (OR: 0.72 [95% CI: 0.70, 0.74]) were reduced with each month of 1LT (p < 0.0001 for all outcomes).

CONCLUSIONS

Dose-attenuated 1LT was associated with longer DOT among patients with non-SCT NDMM. Each additional month of 1LT was associated with a reduced adjusted likelihood of disease progression and death at 2 years. Dose-attenuation of 1LT can extend DOT; longer DOT may improve clinical outcomes.

Global epidemiology of amyloid light-chain amyloidosis

Background

Amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis is an ultra-rare disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Few studies have examined the global epidemiology of this condition.

Methods

This study estimated the diagnosed incidence and 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, and 20-year period prevalence of AL amyloidosis in 2018 for countries in and near Europe, and in the United States (US), Canada, Brazil, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Russia. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to identify country-specific, age- and gender-specific diagnosed incidence of AL amyloidosis and observed survival data-point inputs for an incidence-to-prevalence model. Extrapolations were used to estimate incidence and prevalence for countries without registry or published epidemiological data.

Results

Of 171 publications identified in the SLR, 10 records met the criteria for data extraction, and two records were included in the final incidence-to-prevalence model. In 2018, an estimated 74,000 AL amyloidosis cases worldwide were diagnosed during the preceding 20 years. The estimated incidence and 20-year prevalence rates were 10 and 51 cases per million population, respectively.

Conclusions

Orphan medicinal product designation criteria of the European Medicines Agency or Electronic Code of Federal Regulations indicate that a disease must not affect > 5 in 10,000 people across the European Union or affect < 200,000 people in the US. This study provides up-to-date epidemiological patterns of AL amyloidosis, which is vital for understanding the burden of the disease, increasing awareness, and to further research and treatment options.

Treatment patterns and outcomes among nontransplant newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients in Spain

Aim: To describe treatment patterns and outcomes in nontransplant newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients in Spain. Methods: This retrospective study included two cohorts of NDMM patients diagnosed between 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2013 and 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017. Results: Among 113 patients, proteasome inhibitor (PI) + alkylator combinations (49%) and PI-based regimens without an alkylator (30%) were the most common first-line (1L) therapies. Use of PI + immunomodulatory drug-based regimens increased between the cohorts; PI-based regimens without an alkylator/immunomodulatory drug decreased. Use of 1L oral regimens was low but increased over time; use of maintenance therapy was low across both periods. Median 1L duration of treatment was 6.9 months. Conclusion: Short 1L duration of treatment and low use of 1L oral regimens and maintenance therapy highlight unmet needs in NDMM.

Treatment Satisfaction and Burden of Illness in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

OBJECTIVES

This observational study identified attributes of patient-reported satisfaction with therapy for multiple myeloma (MM), described the treatment-related time burden and indirect costs, and investigated the effect of administration route (oral vs. injectable) on these outcomes among patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) and among caregivers.

METHODS

Patients residing in the USA with a self-reported diagnosis of NDMM were recruited from PatientsLikeMe, MyelomaCrowd, and Facebook (16 December 2016 and 6 July 2017) to complete an electronic survey including questions on treatment experience, economic burden, and standardized patient-reported outcome measures, including the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication with three domains (global satisfaction, effectiveness, and convenience) and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified predictors of patient-perceived treatment satisfaction.

RESULTS

Among 188 patients, worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) was correlated with lower patient-perceived effectiveness and convenience of their current treatment. White race and oral administration route were independently correlated with higher patient-perceived convenience of treatment. Injectable therapy use was associated with a trend towards increased activity impairment (43 vs. 34%; p = 0.05) and significantly higher time burden of treatment administration, with threefold higher adjusted indirect costs of MM therapy compared with solely orally administered therapies (monthly mean $US482 vs. 153; 2016 values; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Factors associated with patient-perceived satisfaction with NDMM treatment-ECOG PS, race, administration route-warrant increased attention in shared treatment decision making to help identify patient needs and improve the patient's treatment experience. The use of orally administered therapies could improve patients' activity impairment and reduce the time burden associated with therapy.

Real-world treatment patterns and outcomes in non-transplant newly diagnosed multiple Myeloma in France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom

OBJECTIVES

The treatment paradigm in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) is evolving toward individualized, risk-directed, and longer duration of therapy (DOT). The objective of this study was to describe treatment patterns and outcomes in non-transplant NDMM in four European countries.

METHODS

This retrospective chart review included adults with NDMM diagnosed between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2013 (early cohort), or April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2017 (recent cohort).

RESULTS

Among 836 patients, molecular testing was performed in 21% and 35% patients of early vs recent cohorts; proteasome inhibitor (PI)/alkylator combinations were the principal first-line (1 L) therapy (39% vs 43%). Use of immunomodulatory drug (IMID)/alkylator combinations declined from early to recent cohort (26% vs 13%) but IMID (7% vs 16%) use increased. Few patients (5%) received 1 L maintenance therapy. Two-thirds of patients were treated with a fixed duration intent, with a median 7-month 1 L DOT and progression-free survival (PFS) of 32.8 months in the early cohort. Both 1 L DOT and PFS were longer with oral compared to injectable regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Although frontline treatment patterns changed significantly, 1 L DOT is short. The uptake of molecular testing and 1 L maintenance is low. These results highlight areas of unmet need in NDMM.

Real-world outcomes and factors impacting treatment choice in relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM): a comparison of VRd, KRd, and IRd

Lack of head-to-head trials highlights a need for comparative real-world evidence of proteasome inhibitors plus Rd.Methods: In this retrospective, US population-representative EHR study of RRMM patients initiating IRd, KRd, or VRd in line of therapy (LOT) ≥2 between 1/2014 and 9/30/2018, 664 patients were treated in LOT ≥2 with: IRd, n = 168; KRd, n = 208; VRd, n = 357. Median age was 71/65/71 years; 67%/70%/75% had a frailty_modified score of intermediate/frail; 20%/28%/13% had high cytogenetic risk in I-/K-/V-Rd groups. Risk of PI-triplet discontinuation was lower for I- vs. K-Rd (HR: 0.71) and I- vs. V-Rd (HR: 0.85); unadjusted, median TTNTs (months): 12.7/8.6/14.2 (LOT ≥2) and 16.8/9.5/14.6 (LOT 2-3) (I-/K-/V-Rd). Adjusted TTNT was comparable between I-/K-/V-Rd in LOT ≥2 with a TTNT benefit among intermediate/frail patients for I- (HR: 0.70; P=0.04) and V- (HR: 0.73; P<0.05) vs. K-Rd. I/K/V-Rd triplets were comparable in TTNT overall, but IRd and VRd were associated with longer TTNT in intermediate/frail patients than KRd. The results suggest a trial-efficacy/real-world-effectiveness gap, especially for KRd, underlining the limited generalizability of trial results where >50% of patients are excluded. Individualized treatment based on patient characteristics, such as frailty status, is especially pertinent in an elderly RRMM population.

Quality of life is maintained with ixazomib maintenance in post-transplant newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: The TOURMALINE-MM3 trial

OBJECTIVES

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is particularly important during maintenance therapy (MT) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma post-transplant, when disease symptoms are limited.

METHODS

We assessed HRQoL in patients randomised to 26 cycles of MT (ixazomib vs placebo) in TOURMALINE-MM3 (NCT02181413).

RESULTS

The characteristics at study entry were well-balanced between ixazomib (n = 386) and placebo (n = 251) arms. At study entry, EORTC QLQ-C30 and MY20 scores were high for functional scales and low for symptom scales and were comparable with those of the general population. Changes in subscale scores across intervals, analysed over 30 four-week intervals using a linear mixed-effects model, were generally small and similar between arms for the EORTC QLQ-C30 Global Health Status/QoL, Physical Functioning, and Pain subscales and EORTC QLQ-MY20 Disease Symptoms subscale and Peripheral Neuropathy item. EORTC QLQ-C30 Nausea/Vomiting and Diarrhoea subscales were consistently worse for ixazomib than for placebo, in line with the ixazomib toxicity profile. Even when least-squares mean differences between arms were statistically significant, none reached the established minimal important clinical difference of 10 in multiple myeloma.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to improvement in progression-free survival with ixazomib, HRQoL was maintained in both arms. Active treatment with ixazomib did not have an adverse impact on HRQoL.

Utilization of novel systemic therapies for multiple myeloma: A retrospective study of front-line regimens using the SEER-Medicare data

The landscape of treatment for multiple myeloma (MM) has significantly changed over the last decade due to novel agents that have shown superiority in efficacy such as proteasome inhibitors (PIs) and immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) over traditional therapies. However, the real-world utilization of these new agents has not been studied well. This study evaluated year-to-year changes in treatment choices in a cohort of patients aged 66 or older in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry linked with Medicare claims (SEER-Medicare) data who were diagnosed with MM between 2007 and 2011. We identified 2477 symptomatic newly diagnosed patients who were followed for 6 months or more postdiagnosis and treated with systemic therapies but not with stem cell transplantation. Symptomatic patients were identified by evidence of hypercalcemia, renal failure, anemia, or bone lesions (CRAB criteria). The minimum follow-up was imposed to ensure sufficient data to characterize treatment. Our analysis found that the proportion of treated patients increased from 75% in the 2007 cohort to 79% in the 2011 cohort. The share of PI-based regimens including PI plus alkylating agents, PI plus IMiD, and PI-only increased from 9% to 21%, 3% to 11%, and 16% to 22%, respectively, between 2007 and 2011. These findings translate to the share of PI-based regimens having increased from 28% to 55% and that of IMiDs-based regimens (excluding PI plus IMiD) having decreased from 43% to 27%. In conclusion, while the usage of PIs among elderly MM patients increased significantly replacing IMiD-based regimens (with or without alkylating agents but not with PI) between 2007 and 2011, this significant shift did not increase the proportion of treated patients.

Randomized Clinical Trial Representativeness and Outcomes in Real-World Patients: Comparison of 6 Hallmark Randomized Clinical Trials of Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma

BACKGROUND

Concern has been increasing in oncology regarding randomized clinical trial (RCT) eligibility limiting the generalizability of the findings to real-world populations. Using a large US electronic health record database, we investigated the real-world generalizability of the findings from recent RCTs for relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with RRMM initiating second-to fourth-line therapy with the control arm of the following RCTs were retrospectively identified and categorized as "RCT eligible" or "RCT ineligible" according to the eligibility criteria: (1) Rd (lenalidomide, dexamethasone)-ASPIRE, TOURMALINE-MM1, POLLUX, and ELOQUENT-2; and (2) Vd (bortezomib, dexamethasone)-CASTOR and ENDEAVOR. Predictors of RCT ineligibility and overall survival were analyzed using logistic regression and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Variations in the individual trial ineligibility rates were noted, with up to 72.3% (range, 47.9%-72.3%) of patients not meeting the eligibility criteria for 1 of the 6 hallmark RCTs (n = 788 for Rd; n = 477 for Vd). Other malignancies, cardiovascular disease, acute infection, and renal dysfunction were the common reasons for ineligibility. Advanced age, Charlson comorbidity score of ≥ 2, later therapy lines (3-4), and refractory status to the previous line were independently predictive of RCT ineligibility. RCT-ineligible versus RCT-eligible patients had a significantly greater mortality risk (hazard ratio, Rd, 1.46; Vd, 1.51).

CONCLUSION

Most real-world patients with RRMM were ineligible for the hallmark RCTs. The eligibility rates varied across the RCTs, underlining the flawed nature of cross-study comparisons without RCT validation. Overall survival was significantly affected by the inability to meet the criteria, highlighting the limited generalizability of the RCT results. Greater efforts are required to broaden the eligibility criteria to reflect real-world clinical characteristics and narrow the gap between RCT efficacy and the observed effectiveness in real-world patients with RRMM.

Patient-Reported Factors in Treatment Satisfaction in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM)

This article identifies factors associated with patient‐reported satisfaction with multiple myeloma therapy and the treatment‐related time burden and indirect costs among patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and their caregivers. Improved understanding of these variables will inform treatment decisions across this complex treatment landscape.

Background.

Therapy choices in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) should consider patient satisfaction with treatment, because it is associated with adherence to therapy, health outcomes, and medical safety. The primary objective of this pilot cross‐sectional observational study was to ascertain factors associated with patient‐reported treatment satisfaction in RRMM.

Patients and Methods.

Patients with a self‐reported diagnosis of RRMM recruited from PatientsLikeMe, MyelomaCrowd, and Facebook were administered an electronic survey that included questions on demographics and clinical history, treatment experience, economic burden, and standardized patient‐reported outcome measures, including the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) measure, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: Specific Health Problem V2.0. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to identify predictors of patient‐perceived treatment satisfaction.

Results.

One hundred sixty patients with RRMM participated in the study, with a median of two prior relapses and 66.3% reporting the most recent relapse within the last 12 months. ECOG PS ≥2 was associated with lower patient‐reported global satisfaction and perceived effectiveness of current treatment. In addition to shorter time spent receiving therapy, orally administered treatment was the strongest predictor of higher satisfaction with treatment convenience. For patients receiving an injectable drug‐containing regimen versus an all‐oral regimen, respectively, time spent receiving multiple myeloma‐directed therapy was higher (12.6 vs. 4.0 hours per month), and total monthly indirect costs were $1,033 and $241.

Conclusion.

Poor ECOG PS was linked to reduced treatment satisfaction and perceived effectiveness of current therapy, whereas an all‐oral regimen was associated with increased treatment convenience satisfaction.

Implications for Practice.

This study suggests that attributes including better Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, less time spent receiving treatment, and oral route of treatment administration lead to higher patient‐perceived satisfaction with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) treatment. Oral route of administration was also associated with less time spent receiving treatment and reduced economic burden for patients. Increased attention to these factors in shared treatment decision making is warranted to help identify individual patient needs, preferences, and expectations for RRMM treatments, to resolve dissatisfaction issues, and to improve the experience of patients with RRMM.

INSIGHT MM: a large, global, prospective, non-interventional, real-world study of patients with multiple myeloma

With the introduction of new drugs with different mechanisms of action, multiple myeloma (MM) patients' outcomes have improved. However, the efficacy seen in clinical trials is often not seen in real-world settings and data on the effectiveness of MM therapies are needed. INSIGHT MM is a prospective, global, non-interventional, observational study that is enrolling approximately 4200 patients with newly diagnosed or relapsed/refractory MM, making it the largest study of its kind to date. The study aims to describe contemporary, real-world patterns of patient characteristics, clinical disease presentation, therapies chosen, clinical outcomes (response, treatment duration, time-to-next-therapy, progression-free and overall survival), safety, healthcare resource utilization and quality of life. One interim analysis has been conducted to date; current accrual is approximately 3094 patients. Trial registration number: NCT02761187.

INSIGHT MM: a large, global, prospective, non-interventional, real-world study of patients with multiple myeloma

With the introduction of new drugs with different mechanisms of action, multiple myeloma (MM) patients’ outcomes have improved. However, the efficacy seen in clinical trials is often not seen in real-world settings and data on the effectiveness of MM therapies are needed. INSIGHT MM is a prospective, global, non-interventional, observational study that is enrolling approximately 4200 patients with newly diagnosed or relapsed/refractory MM, making it the largest study of its kind to date. The study aims to describe contemporary, real-world patterns of patient characteristics, clinical disease presentation, therapies chosen, clinical outcomes (response, treatment duration, time-to-next-therapy, progression-free and overall survival), safety, healthcare resource utilization and quality of life. One interim analysis has been conducted to date; current accrual is approximately 3094 patients.

Trial registration number: NCT02761187

Adoption of triplet therapy and clinical outcomes in routine practice among newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients not receiving frontline stem cell transplant in the USA

BACKGROUND

Immunomodulator (IMID) and proteasome inhibitor (PI) triplet frontline therapy (FT) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) trials improve overall survival (OS); reported outcomes in routine practice are lacking. Authors compared outcomes in NDMM patients in the USA by use of triplet vs doublet FTs.

METHODS

In this retrospective study of NDMM patients without FT transplant between 1/1/2008 and 6/30/2017, FT was categorized as: PI+IMID-triplet (≥ 3 drugs including PI+IMID), non-PI+IMID-triplet (≥ 3 drugs, not PI+IMID), doublet (≤ 2 drugs). Univariate and multivariate analyses identified FT triplet predictors and compared time-to-next-treatment (TTNT)/OS.

RESULTS

Among 4,982 NDMM patients, 68% and 32% initiated doublet and triplet FTs (PI+IMID: 36% in 2017). Triplet FT predictors included: age, cytogenetics, ISS stage, certain CRAB symptoms. Median TTNT_{PI+IMID-triplet} = 18.9 months vs 13.7 (non-PI+IMID-triplet) and 16.5 months (doublet) FTs (P< 0.01); adjusted HR_{PI+IMID-triplet} = 0.86; P= 0.009; HR_{non-PI+IMID-triplet} = 1.10; P = 0.083 vs doublet FT. Median OS_{PI+IMID-triplet} = 58.7 months vs 43.6 (non-PI+IMID-triplet) and 45.7 months (doublet) FTs (P< 0.01); adjusted HR_{PI+IMID-triplet} = 0.83; P= 0.016; HR_{non-PI+IMID-triplet} = 1.02; P = 0.727 vs doublet FT.

CONCLUSION

PI+IMID-triplet FT is not utilized for most non-frontline-transplant NDMM patients in routine care but is associated with prolonged TTNT/OS.

Interpreting clinical trial data in multiple myeloma: translating findings to the real-world setting

Substantial improvements in survival have been seen in multiple myeloma (MM) over recent years, associated with the introduction and widespread use of multiple novel agents and regimens, as well as the emerging treatment paradigm of continuous or long-term therapy. However, these therapies and approaches may have limitations in the community setting, associated with toxicity burden, patient burden, and other factors including cost. Consequently, despite improvements in efficacy in the rigorously controlled clinical trials setting, the same results are not always achieved in real-world practice. Furthermore, the large number of different treatment options and regimens under investigation in various MM settings precludes the feasibility of obtaining head-to-head clinical trial data, and there is a temptation to use cross-trial comparisons to evaluate data across regimens. However, multiple aspects, including patient-related, disease-related, and treatment-related factors, can influence clinical trial outcomes and lead to differences between studies that may confound direct comparisons between data. In this review, we explore the various factors requiring attention when evaluating clinical trial data across available agents/regimens, as well as other considerations that may impact the translation of these findings into everyday MM management. We also investigate discrepancies between clinical trial efficacy and real-world effectiveness through a literature review of non-clinical trial data in relapsed/refractory MM on novel agent-based regimens and evaluate these data in the context of phase 3 trial results for recently approved and commonly used regimens. We thereby demonstrate the complexity of interpreting data across clinical studies in MM, as well as between clinical studies and routine-care analyses, with the aim to help clinicians consider all the necessary issues when tailoring individual patients' treatment approaches.

Prolonged Duration of Therapy Is Associated With Improved Survival in Patients Treated for Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma in Routine Clinical Care in the United States

BACKGROUND

In clinical trials, an extended therapy duration has been associated with better outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). However, data on how the therapy duration affects the outcomes for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) are limited. We conducted a large, retrospective study in the United States to evaluate the effect of the duration of second-line therapy on overall survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Adults with NDMM from January 2008 to June 2015 were followed up to identify their second-line therapy. The duration of therapy (DOT) and time to next therapy (TTNT), as a proxy for progression-free survival, were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The relationship between the duration of second-line therapy and overall survival was evaluated with a logistic marginal structural model to mitigate the risk of treatment selection and survival bias.

RESULTS

A total of 628 NDMM patients developed a relapse after initial therapy. The median DOT for second-line therapy was 6.9 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.9-7.7 months), which was shorter than the corresponding TTNT (median, 15.1 months; 95% CI, 13.4-17.3 months). Each additional month of second-line therapy was associated with a reduced adjusted risk of death at 1 year (odds ratio, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.77-0.83; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In a large database capturing a heterogeneous patient population and varied treatment patterns reflecting routine clinical care, we found a clinical benefit for continued longer DOT at first relapse. Despite the emerging paradigm favoring continuous therapy, second-line progression-free survival (utilizing TTNT as the proxy) was more than twofold longer than the DOT. Understanding the barriers to extended DOT could help to improve the outcomes for RRMM patients.

Factors associated with second-line triplet therapy in routine care in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Second-line therapy (SLT) trials in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) report superior outcomes with triplet combinations. We sought to determine factors associated with triplet SLT in routine practice.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort with claims for MM between 01/01/2008 and 03/31/2015 was grouped by 1-2 ("doublet") or 3+ ("triplet") agent therapy. Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and disability status; CRAB symptoms (hypercalcaemia, renal/bone disease, anaemia); and relapse risk were determined.

RESULTS

Among 623 patients, the triplet group (n=146 [23%]) was younger (65.2 vs 69.8 years) and more likely to have high-risk relapse (67% vs 50%), CRAB symptoms (94.5% vs 81.1%), triplet first-line treatment (75% vs 51%) and frontline stem cell transplant (38% vs 20%) (P<0.001 for all). In multivariate analyses, CRAB symptoms (OR: 3.22, 95% CI: 1.47, 7.10), high-risk relapse (OR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.62) and prior triplet therapy (OR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.38, 3.40), but neither CCI nor disability, were associated with triplet SLT. A trend towards triplets among younger patients (<65 vs >75 years, OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 0.99, 3.04) was observed.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

The majority of patients did not receive triplet regimens. Treatment selection with triplet therapy for RRMM should carefully consider comorbidities and patient-specific characteristics.

Healthcare and economic impact of diarrhea in patients with carcinoid syndrome

AIM: To examine healthcare resource utilization patterns and costs accrued by carcinoid syndrome (CS) patients with and without diarrhea.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using MarketScan^® data from 1/1/2002-12/31/2012. Newly diagnosed CS patients had 1 medical claim for CS (ICD-9-CM code 259.2) plus either ≥ 1 additional claim for CS or for carcinoid tumors (ICD-9-CM 209.x), and had no evidence of CS for 1 year prior to index CS diagnosis, in commercially-insured patients < 65 years old. Patients were required to have continuous enrollment one year prior and after index date (first claim with CS diagnosis in the ID period). We identified patients with evidence of non-infectious diarrhea (ICD-9-CM codes 564.5 and 787.91) within one year from the index date. Overall and CS-related healthcare resource utilization and costs were compared between patients with and without non-infectious diarrhea during the one year period after the index date.

RESULTS: There were 2822 newly diagnosed CS patients; 534 (18.9%) had evidence of non-infectious diarrhea. Compared to patients without non-infectious diarrhea, non-infectious diarrhea patients more commonly had at ≥ 1 CS-related hospitalization (13.7% vs 7.2%), ≥ 1 CS-related ED visit (11.0% vs 4.4%), and CS-related office visits in one year (6.9 vs 4.1; all P < 0.001). After adjusting for demographics, region, number of chronic conditions and the Charlson Comorbidity Index, the proportions of patients with any and with CS-related hospitalizations were 9.7% and 6.8% higher, respectively, among non-infectious diarrhea patients compared to those with without non-infectious diarrhea (P < 0.001). Unadjusted costs were significantly higher among non-infectious diarrhea patients vs those without non-infectious diarrhea. The non-infectious diarrhea group was also more costly, with adjusted mean annual costs of $81610, compared to $51719 in the group without non-infectious diarrhea (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Diarrhea is burdensome and costly in CS patients. Reduction of CS-related healthcare expenditures may be achievable through preventive treatment and appropriate management of diarrhea in CS.

Cost-effectiveness of multiplexed predictive biomarker screening in non-small-cell lung cancer

INTRODUCTION

Population-wide screening for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangements to inform cancer therapy in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is recommended by guidelines. We estimated cost-effectiveness of multiplexed predictive biomarker screening in metastatic NSCLC from a societal perspective in the United States.

METHODS

We constructed a microsimulation model to compare the life expectancy and costs of multiplexed testing and molecularly guided therapy versus treatment with cisplatin-pemetrexed (CisPem). All testing interventions included a two-step algorithm of concurrent EGFR mutation and ALK overexpression testing with immunohistochemistry followed by ALK rearrangement confirmation with a fluorescence in situ hybridization assay for immunohistochemistry-positive results. Three strategies were included: "Test-treat" approach, where molecularly guided therapy was initiated after obtainment of test results; "Empiric switch therapy," with concurrent initiation of CisPem and testing and immediate switch to test-result conditional treatment after one cycle of CisPem; and "Empiric therapy" approach in which CisPem was continued for four cycles before start of a tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

RESULTS

The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for "Test-treat" compared with treatment with CisPem was $136,000 per quality-adjusted life year gained. Both empiric treatment approaches had less favorable incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. "Test-treat" and "Empiric switch therapy" yielded higher expected outcomes in terms of quality-adjusted life years and life-years than "Empiric therapy." These results were robust across plausible ranges of model inputs.

CONCLUSION

From a societal perspective, our cost-effectiveness results support the value of multiplexed genetic screening and molecularly guided therapy in metastatic NSCLC.

Does health-related quality of life improve for advanced pancreatic cancer patients who respond to gemcitabine? Analysis of a randomized phase III trial of the cancer and leukemia group B (CALGB 80303)

CONTEXT

Gemcitabine for advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) is palliative and the prognosis is poor, making health-related quality of life (HRQOL) particularly important.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated HRQOL with the EuroQol (EQ-5D™) in patients with APC participating in Cancer and Leukemia Group B 80303, a multicenter, double-blind, randomized trial comparing overall survival (OS) between two treatment arms: gemcitabine with bevacizumab or gemcitabine with placebo.

METHODS

A consecutive subsample of patients was invited to complete the EQ-5D surveys. Because neither clinical nor HRQOL outcomes differed based on the study arm, analyses were pooled. Changes in mean scores from baseline to eight weeks and the prognostic value of the EQ-5D were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean index scores remained stable (0.78 at baseline [n=267], 0.79 at eight weeks [n=186], P=0.34, Wilcoxon signed rank test), attributable to a modest deterioration of physical function domain scores coincident with small improvements in pain and anxiety/depression scores. A small decline in visual analogue scale scores was observed (70.7 vs. 68.2, P=0.026). HRQOL changes within chemotherapy response strata revealed stable index scores but a trend of worsened physical function among patients with disease progression compared with those with stable or improved disease. Visual analogue scale scores trended downward over time irrespective of chemotherapy response status, with a statistically meaningful deterioration in patients who progressed (68.9 vs. 64.4, P=0.029). Baseline scores from both EQ-5D scales were significant predictors of OS in Cox proportional hazard models.

CONCLUSION

Response to gemcitabine treatment in APC is not associated with appreciable improvement of global HRQOL. Small improvements in pain and mood are observed despite progressive functional decline. Those who respond to gemcitabine may experience a slight slowing of functional deterioration.

Lung cancer treatment costs, including patient responsibility, by disease stage and treatment modality, 1992 to 2003

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this analysis was to estimate costs for lung cancer care and evaluate trends in the share of treatment costs that are the responsibility of Medicare beneficiaries.

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare data from 1991-2003 for 60,231 patients with lung cancer were used to estimate monthly and patient-liability costs for clinical phases of lung cancer (prediagnosis, staging, initial, continuing, and terminal), stratified by treatment, stage, and non-small- versus small-cell lung cancer. Lung cancer-attributable costs were estimated by subtracting each patient's own prediagnosis costs. Costs were estimated as the sum of Medicare reimbursements (payments from Medicare to the service provider), co-insurance reimbursements, and patient-liability costs (deductibles and "co-payments" that are the patient's responsibility). Costs and patient-liability costs were fit with regression models to compare trends by calendar year, adjusting for age at diagnosis.

RESULTS

The monthly treatment costs for a 72-year-old patient, diagnosed with lung cancer in 2000, in the first 6 months ranged from $2687 (no active treatment) to $9360 (chemo-radiotherapy); costs varied by stage at diagnosis and histologic type. Patient liability represented up to 21.6% of care costs and increased over the period 1992-2003 for most stage and treatment categories, even when care costs decreased or remained unchanged. The greatest monthly patient liability was incurred by chemo-radiotherapy patients, which ranged from $1617 to $2004 per month across cancer stages.

CONCLUSIONS

Costs for lung cancer care are substantial, and Medicare is paying a smaller proportion of the total cost over time.

Meeting the 12 lymph node (LN) benchmark in colon cancer

BACKGROUND

Examining >or=12 LN in colon cancer has been suggested as a quality metric. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the 12 LN benchmark is achieved at NCCN centers compared to a US population-based sample.

METHODS

Patients with stage I-III disease resected at NCCN centers were identified from a prospective database (n = 718) and were compared to 12,845 stage I-III patients diagnosed in a SEER region. Age, gender, location, stage, number of positive nodes were compared for NCCN and SEER data in regards to number of nodes evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression models were developed to identify factors associated with evaluating 12 LNs.

RESULTS

92% of NCCN and 58% of SEER patients had >or=12 LN evaluated. For patients treated at NCCN centers, factors associated with not meeting the 12 LN target were left-sided tumors, stage I disease and BMI >30.

CONCLUSIONS

>or=12 LN are almost always evaluated in NCCN patients. In contrast, this target is achieved in 58% of SEER patients. With longer follow-up of the NCCN cohort we will be able to link this quality metric to patterns of recurrence and survival and thereby better understand whether increasing the number of nodes evaluated is a priority for cancer control.

Effect of lymph node retrieval rates on the utilization of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II colon cancer

BACKGROUND

Failing to meet the benchmark of 12 lymph nodes in resection specimens is an indication for adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II colon cancer.

METHODS

Among consecutive eligible patients with pathologic stage II colon cancer treated at eight NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers between September 1, 2005 and February 19, 2008, we analyzed receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy, with less than 12 versus 12+ lymph nodes removed and examined the primary explanatory variable of interest.

RESULTS

Among 258 patients, 46% received adjuvant chemotherapy. An oxaliplatin-containing regimen was used 67% of the time. Younger age (<50 years, P < 0.001), presence of lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.007), and higher T stage (P = 0.007) were independently associated with adjuvant chemotherapy use. There was significant inter-institutional variability in practice with the proportion receiving treatment ranging from 17% to 64% (P < 0.05). Notably, presence of less than 12 lymph nodes in the surgical specimen was a strong predictor of treatment (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant chemotherapy use after resection of stage II colon cancer is common, but by no means standard practice at National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) institutions. More attention to achieving the recommended benchmark for lymph node dissection has the potential to decrease exposure to the toxicity of adjuvant treatment.

Concordance with NCCN Colorectal Cancer Guidelines and ASCO/NCCN Quality Measures: an NCCN institutional analysis

BACKGROUND

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Outcomes Database was created to assess concordance to evidence- and consensus-based guidelines and to measure adherence to quality measures on an ongoing basis. The Colorectal Cancer Database began in 2005 as a collaboration among 8 NCCN centers.

METHODS

Newly diagnosed colon and rectal cancer patients presenting to 1 of 8 NCCN centers between September 1, 2005, and May 21, 2008, were eligible for analysis of concordance with NCCN treatment guidelines for colorectal cancer and with a set of quality metrics jointly developed by ASCO and NCCN in 2007. Adherence rates were determined for each metric. Center-specific rates were benchmarked against mean concordance rates for all participating centers.

RESULTS

A total of 3443 patients were evaluable. Mean concordance rates with NCCN colorectal cancer guidelines and ASCO/NCCN quality measures were generally high ( >or= 90%). However, relatively low mean concordance rates were noted for adjuvant chemotherapy treatment recommendations within 9 months of diagnosis of stage II to III rectal cancer (81%), and neoadjuvant chemoradiation in clinical T4 rectal primaries (83%). These low rates of concordance seemed to be consistent across centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence to guidelines and quality measures is generally high at institutions participating in the NCCN colorectal cancer database. Lack of documentation, patient refusal, delayed treatment initiation, and lack of consensus about whether treatment was essential were the primary reasons for nonconcordance. Measurement of concordance and the reasons for nonconcordance enable participating centers to understand and improve their care delivery systems.

Documentation of pain in comprehensive cancer centers in the United States: a preliminary analysis

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), an organization of 19 of the world's leading cancer centers, developed and communicated a cancer pain treatment guideline. NCCN seeks to implement guidelines through performance measurement using a NCCN Oncology Outcomes Database. This is a preliminary report from the NCCN Cancer Pain Management Database Project. The primary objective of this NCCN Cancer Pain Management Database Project study is to evaluate the frequency, methods, and extent of documentation of cancer pain assessment and management at NCCN institutions. A pain data dictionary and related data collection forms were first developed. The records of 209 breast cancer patients with bone metastases were then studied. The frequency of pain mentions, type of pain assessment tool used, pain characteristics, type of clinician documenting pain, location in the medical record, and pain treatment characteristics were noted. The majority of clinical encounters included pain mentions, although considerable variability was found in pain documentation between providers and between inpatient and outpatient settings. Nurses more frequently recorded pain, usually as a numeric pain intensity score. Pain specialists were more likely to record a complete description of pain. A significant minority of patients experienced moderate to severe pain. In a small subgroup of patients with moderate to severe pain, pain treatment was not recorded. The undertreatment of cancer pain has been a focus of investigation and review for the past two decades. Quality improvement efforts to raise the standard of pain management have been underway. The results of this study highlight the need for standardization of pain documentation in comprehensive cancer centers as a prerequisite for the proper assessment of cancer pain and the improvement of clinical outcomes of pain management.

Clinical trial participants’ strategies for coping with prescription drug costs: A companion study to CALGB 80405

9503

Background: The strategies used by clinical trial participants to cope with the high costs of prescription drugs are poorly characterized. Methods: We identified a cohort of newly metastatic CRC patients participating in CALGB 80405, a phase III trial comparing first-line systemic chemotherapy with Bevacizumab, Cetuximab or both agents. We surveyed trial participants about their prescription drug insurance status and strategies they used to cope with out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. We surveyed patients before trial initiation and again 3 months later to assess the extent to which embarking on chemotherapy imposes additional financial burden requiring use of coping strategies. Results: Out of 1422 trial participants, 806 (57%) completed the baseline survey. The 515 enrolled before 09/01/2007 were asked to repeat the survey by phone at 3 months; 409/505 alive at 3 months (81%) did so. The 409 patients in the analytic cohort had similar clinical and demographic features to those not surveyed. 60/409 (15%) lacked prescription drug coverage and only 48/409 (12%) discussed prescription drug costs with their physicians. Conclusions: In the context of a trial in which costs of chemotherapy are covered and most participants had prescription drug insurance, patients rarely discuss prescription drug costs with their physicians. Although a considerable minority report having used coping strategies to lessen the cost burden, only a very small minority newly adopt such strategies after starting chemotherapy on trial.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

How often is adjuvant FOLFOX (Adj FOLFOX) discontinued for toxicity among colon cancer patients in the routine care setting?

9530

Background: Although 12 cycles of Adj FOLFOX are recommended for stage III and high risk stage II colon cancer, toxicity may preclude completion of treatment. We used the NCCN Colorectal Cancer Outcomes Database to identify how frequently Adj FOLFOX is discontinued prematurely for toxicity in a non-clinical trial population. Methods: Newly diagnosed stage II-III colon cancer pts treated with Adj FOLFOX at 7 NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers between 9/05–12/07 were identified. We assessed completion of the prescribed adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) course, including Adj FOLFOX and 5FU-based adjuvant treatment alone subsequent to discontinuation of oxaliplatin (oxal). Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) of Adj FOLFOX was defined as premature discontinuation of Adj FOLFOX due to toxicity. We evaluated potential predictors of Adj FOLFOX DLT, including older age and history of diabetes in a multivariable logistic model controlling for stage and center. We measured the duration of Adj FOLFOX use in weeks, from first to last dose. Results: 293 pts began Adj FOLFOX. Pts who experienced DLT (40%) had a shorter duration of Adj FOLFOX and were less likely to complete AC, even after oxal was discontinued. The only significant predictor of experiencing a DLT was a history of diabetes. Conclusions: Our analysis of patients treated outside of a clinical trial demonstrated a notably high rate of discontinuation of Adj FOLFOX due to DLT, particularly in pts with diabetes. The results underscore the need for systematic assessment of toxicity especially among diabetics.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

Does health-related quality of life (HRQL) improve for patients who respond to chemotherapy? Analysis of patients with advanced pancreas cancer (APC) receiving gemcitabine on Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) study #80303

9008

Background: Gemcitabine chemotherapy for APC is palliative and confers only modest survival advantage. Therefore HRQL concerns are of paramount importance. Methods: We compared HRQL scores based on response to chemotherapy at the first interval restaging (8 weeks). We evaluated HRQL at baseline on paper, and then q8 weeks by phone using the EQ5D instrument in patients with APC participating in a double-blind, randomized trial comparing overall survival for gemcitabine with bevacizumab (GB) or placebo (GP). The EQ5D is a HRQL measure whose composite (C) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores respectively reflect societal and patient valuations. Results: Among 552 patients starting protocol treatment, characteristics did not differ between 359 who did and 193 who didn’t complete baseline assessments. Patients who didn’t complete 8 week assessments were more likely to have died, progressed or discontinued protocol therapy. Changes in EQ5D scores from baseline to 8 weeks did not differ by treatment arm (p-values=0.84, 0.79 for C and VAS scales, Wilcoxon rank sum test). At 8 weeks, all patients and those with progressive disease had a modest decline in VAS scores (p-values≤0.02, Wilcoxon signed rank test). Comparisons of changes from baseline in C scores at 8 week follow-up revealed no differences within other response group strata (all p-values > 0.05). Conclusions: Based on this preliminary analysis, gemcitabine therapy was not associated with higher HRQL scores, nor was there any strong association between tumor response and HRQL. To increase data representativeness, future APC trials should assess HRQL more often than every 8 weeks. HRQL Scores Based on Gemcitabine Response Strata. Values are Mean (SD)

[Table: see text] [Table: see text]

Meeting the 12 lymph nodes (LN) benchmark in colorectal cancer surgery: A comparison of NCCN and SEER data

4015

Background: The American College of Pathology has suggested that 12 or more LN be examined from colorectal cancer surgical specimen. Both ASCO and NCCN have considered adopting the 12 LN threshold as a quality metric. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the 12 LN benchmark is achieved at NCCN specialty centers. Methods: Patients with newly diagnosed stage I-III colon or rectal cancer, who had primary surgery at NCCN centers in 2005–6 were selected (n=345). Similarly, data from 14,019 stage I-III colorectal patients diagnosed in 2002 in a SEER region were obtained to determine the extent to which this goal was met in a population-based sample. Patient characteristics of age, gender, location, stage and number of positive nodes were compared for NCCN and SEER data in regards to number of nodes evaluated. Univariate logistic regression models were developed to identify factors associated with the 12 LN target at the NCCN. Factors evaluated were number of positive nodes, age, gender, comorbidity score, ECOG performance status, insurance, location, stage, surgery technique, and NCCN center. Results: As detailed in the Table , 89% of the 2005–6 NCCN sample and 45% of the SEER sample had at least 12 LN evaluated. For patients treated at NCCN centers, stage I compared to stage III (OR=0.20; 95% CI=0.08 to 0.48, p<0.0001) and rectal cancer (OR=0.44; 95% CI=0.22 to 0.88, p=0.02) were each less likely to achieve the 12 LN target. Conclusions: For patients operated on at NCCN centers, at least 12 LN are almost always removed and examined as part of an oncologic resection. In population based samples, this target is achieved in less than half of cases. With longer follow-up we will be able to link this potential quality metric directly to outcomes and thereby better inform whether increasing the number of nodes evaluated is an important priority for cancer control. Table 1 . Characteristics of CRC patients who did and did not have 12 or more LN evaluated at primary resection.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Incidence of minimally invasive colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery in patients treated at NCCN institutions

6575

Background: In May 2004 the Clinical Outcomes of Surgical Therapy Study Group published the results of the North American randomized trial demonstrating that oncologic outcome is similar for laparoscopic assisted and open surgery for CRC. This and other studies have shown quicker recovery with laparoscopic CRC surgery including earlier resolution of postoperative ileus, less discomfort, and earlier discharge from the hospital. The extent to which surgeons have adopted the minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approach in CRC is unknown. Methods: Using the NCCN Colon/Rectal Cancer Outcomes Project Database, 715 patients were identified who underwent CRC resection in 2005–6. The distribution of lesions included right colon (39%), left colon (31%), and rectum (30%). The incidence of MIS for CRC and clinicopathologic features associated with this approach were analyzed by logistic regression; results are reported as odd ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and significance defined at p<0.05 level. Results: A total of 167 (23%) patients underwent MIS colorectal surgery (laparoscopy in 98% and robotic in 2%). Conversion to open surgery was noted in 33 cases (20%). Surgery was performed in outside institutions in 21% of cases prior to patients presenting to NCCN institutions for further treatment. The MIS approach was more common in colon than rectal cancer (30% vs.12%, OR 2.96, CI 1.94–4.51, p<0.0001). Within the colon cancer cohort, right sided lesions were more likely to be approached with MIS techniques rather than left sided lesions (32% vs. 25%; OR 1.42, CI 1.96–2.21, p<0.0001). Stage I tumors were also more likely to be managed with the less invasive approach: Stage I-41%; II-20%; III-21%; IV-19% (Stage I vs. IV, OR=3.00, CI 1.74–5.16 p<0.0001). No differences in surgical approach were noted based on age, gender, race, Charlson comorbidity score, insurance type, or location of surgery (NCCN vs outside facility). Conclusion: The majority of CRC surgery for patients presenting to NCCN institutions is performed by open techniques. Right sided and early stage CRCs were more likely treated with MIS, possibly related to the less demanding nature of the procedure. The adoption of MIS is expected to rise as surgeons become trained in MIS techniques for CRC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A patterns-of-care study of post-progression treatment (Rx) among patients (pts) with advanced pancreas cancer (APC) after gemcitabine therapy on Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) study #80303

4524

Background: Gemcitabine is the mainstay of Rx for pts with APC. Practice guidelines encourage participation in trials after disease progression. We evaluated Rx after APC progression for pts in CALGB 80303 a randomized trial of gemcitabine + bevacizumab (GB) or placebo (GP). Methods: Of the 552 pts who began GP or GB Rx, 457 had comprehensive medical record review. Of these 355 progressed on protocol Rx. We evaluated post-progression Rx for these 355 pts - the record review (RecR) group. We also phoned a subgroup of 126 pts to inquire about Rx delivered at sites other than the accruing center - the record review & interview group (RecR + I) to determine whether any Rx had been administered and the specific agents used. Results: ChemoRx after progression on gemcitabine was distinctly uncommon. Based on RecR 239/355=67.3% and on RecR + I, 70/126=55.6% of pts received no chemoRx after progression on the study Rx. These proportions did not vary based on Rx assignment. Worse ECOG performance status at baseline and older age were associated with lower likelihood of post progression Rx. Notably, 99/355=27.9% of pts died within 4 weeks of progression. Conclusions: After progression on a clinical trial of gemcitabine Rx, <half of pts receive 2nd line Rx and remarkably few (<2%) receive further experimental Rx. Given the lack of well established Rx options, there appear to be lost opportunities for participation in early phase clinical trials. Coordinated strategies for second line Rx options might increase the evidence base for this challenging malignancy. Patterns of Post-Progression ChemoRx after Progression on Gemcitabine ± Bevacizumab in APC.

[Table: see text] [Table: see text]

Cost analysis of secondary prophylaxis with oral clodronate versus pamidronate in metastatic breast cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

We compared the direct medical costs of secondary prophylaxis with bisphosphonates (BPs) in bone metastases (BMs) of breast cancer (BCa) from a payer perspective.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study adopted an incidence-based chart review of consecutive BCa patients with BMs who received prophylactic treatment with orally administered (po) clodronate (CLODpo group), or intravenously administered (iv) pamidronate (PAM group) in 1997 at two large oncology centers in Toronto, Ontario. We evaluated the difference in costs of management of patients among the CLODpo and PAM groups using an intent-to-treat analysis from diagnosis of BMs to death, or last follow-up. The results are presented as observed mean and average lifetime (including terminal care) costs per patient.

RESULTS

The observed mean costs in the PAM and CLODpo groups were 49,472 dollars and 50,307 dollars (2002 Canadian dollars), respectively. The difference in costs between the CLODpo (n=34) and PAM (n=18) groups was not significant (P=0.64), and remained robust after sensitivity analyses. The corresponding average lifetime costs were 65,677 dollars in the CLODpo group and 61,254 dollars in the PAM group. Inpatient and terminal care were the major cost drivers, comprising 45% and 25% of overall costs. Of all hospitalizations, 46% were associated with complications from BMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis, which was based on a convenience sample, failed to reveal a statistically significant difference in the observed mean costs between groups of patients who initiated treatment with po clodronate versus iv pamidronate. The cost estimates from this study can be used for future corroborative economic analyses.