The Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) Study is a Global Effort to Drive Early Detection: Baseline Imaging Findings in High-Risk Individuals

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC) is a highly lethal malignancy with a survival rate of only 12%. Surveillance is recommended for high-risk individuals (HRIs), but it is not widely adopted. To address this unmet clinical need and drive early diagnosis research, we established the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) Consortium.

METHODS

PRECEDE is a multi-institutional international collaboration that has undertaken an observational prospective cohort study. Individuals (aged 18-90 years) are enrolled into 1 of 7 cohorts based on family history and pathogenic germline variant (PGV) status. From April 1, 2020, to November 21, 2022, a total of 3,402 participants were enrolled in 1 of 7 study cohorts, with 1,759 (51.7%) meeting criteria for the highest-risk cohort (Cohort 1). Cohort 1 HRIs underwent germline testing and pancreas imaging by MRI/MR-cholangiopancreatography or endoscopic ultrasound.

RESULTS

A total of 1,400 participants in Cohort 1 (79.6%) had completed baseline imaging and were subclassified into 3 groups based on familial PC (FPC; n=670), a PGV and FPC (PGV+/FPC+; n=115), and a PGV with a pedigree that does not meet FPC criteria (PGV+/FPC-; n=615). One HRI was diagnosed with stage IIB PC on study entry, and 35.1% of HRIs harbored pancreatic cysts. Increasing age (odds ratio, 1.05; P<.001) and FPC group assignment (odds ratio, 1.57; P<.001; relative to PGV+/FPC-) were independent predictors of harboring a pancreatic cyst.

CONCLUSIONS

PRECEDE provides infrastructure support to increase access to clinical surveillance for HRIs worldwide, while aiming to drive early PC detection advancements through longitudinal standardized clinical data, imaging, and biospecimen captures. Increased cyst prevalence in HRIs with FPC suggests that FPC may infer distinct biological processes. To enable the development of PC surveillance approaches better tailored to risk category, we recommend adoption of subclassification of HRIs into FPC, PGV+/FPC+, and PGV+/FPC- risk groups by surveillance protocols.

Current chemoprevention approaches in Lynch syndrome and Familial adenomatous polyposis: a global clinical practice survey

Background

International chemoprevention preferences and approaches in Lynch syndrome (LS) and APC-associated polyposis, including Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and attenuated FAP (AFAP) have not been previously explored.

Aim

To describe current chemoprevention strategies for patients with LS or FAP/AFAP (referred to collectively as FAP) practiced by members of four international hereditary cancer societies through administration of a survey.

Results

Ninety-six participants across four hereditary gastrointestinal cancer societies responded to the survey. Most respondents (91%, 87/96) completed information regarding their demographics and practice characteristics relating to hereditary gastrointestinal cancer and chemoprevention clinical practices. Sixty-nine percent (60/87) of respondents offer chemoprevention for FAP and/or LS as a part of their practice. Of the 75% (72/96) of survey respondents who were eligible to answer practice-based clinical vignettes based off of their responses to ten barrier questions regarding chemoprevention, 88% (63/72) of those participants completed at least one case vignette question to further characterize chemoprevention practices in FAP and/or LS. In FAP, 51% (32/63) would offer chemoprevention for rectal polyposis, with sulindac - 300 mg (18%, 10/56) and aspirin (16%, 9/56) being the most frequently selected options. In LS, 93% (55/59) of professionals discuss chemoprevention and 59% (35/59) frequently recommend chemoprevention. Close to half of the respondents (47%, 26/55) would recommend beginning aspirin at time of commencement of the patient's first screening colonoscopy (usually at age 25yrs). Ninety-four percent (47/50) of respondents would consider a patient's diagnosis of LS as an influential factor for aspirin use. There was no consensus on the dose of aspirin (≤100 mg, >100 mg - 325 mg or 600 mg) to offer patients with LS and there was no agreement on how other factors, such as BMI, hypertension, family history of colorectal cancer, and family history of heart disease, would affect the recommendation for aspirin use. Possible harm among older patients (>70 years) was identified as the most common reason to discourage aspirin use.

Conclusion

Although chemoprevention is widely discussed and offered to patients with FAP and LS by an international group of hereditary gastrointestinal cancer experts, there is significant heterogeneity in how it is applied in clinical practice.

Use of the Utah population database to evaluate statewide use of genetic testing for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer

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Background: Genetic testing for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer (HBOC) continues to be underutilized, and options for population-based assessment of testing barriers and outcomes are lacking. This project uses linkages between statewide data sources available through the Utah Population Database (UPDB) to establish an infrastructure for studying the use of HBOC cancer genetic testing across a state. Methods: Clinical HBOC testing data from 1994-2018 was obtained for the University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute, Intermountain Healthcare, Utah Cancer Specialists, and the Salt Lake Veterans administration via electronic imports of tests attributed to these healthcare systems from three commercial laboratories. Genetic testing was linked to external data through the UPDB to determine demographic and urban/rural designation. Cancer diagnoses were obtained from the Utah Cancer Registry, and genealogies from the Utah Resource for Genetic and Epidemiology Research. These variables were matched to data available for the individual at the date of testing. For individuals with multiple genetic tests, the date for the first test was used. Results: Testing data was available for 12983 individuals who linked to additional records within the UPDB. Tested individuals were 86% White, 9% Hispanic, and 16% lived in rural/frontier areas. 75% of tests were performed between 2011-2018. 1575 (12%) had >1 pathogenic variant (PVs) identified in an HBOC gene, with the majority of PVs being in BRCA1/2 (89%), and TP53, CHEK2, and ATM each accounting for 2% of PVs. 7178 cancers were diagnosed in 5980 individuals (46%, avg. 1.2 cancer/person). Cancer cases were evaluated to determine if National Comprehensive Cancer Network (HBOC 2018) criteria were met. Cancer cases who have a relative with BC < 50 years of age or a relative with ovarian cancer (OC) were more likely to have a have BRCA1/2 PV than cases not meeting those criteria (17.5% vs 6.1% and 22.3% vs. 6.3% respectively). Cancer cases meeting criteria due to family history of pancreatic cancer also had a higher rate of PVs (13.1% vs. 8.4%) predominately due to additional PVs in BRCA2. Conclusions: This project begins to address the challenge of population assessment of HBOC genetic testing. We established a regulatory infrastructure to share testing data between multiple healthcare systems. In collaboration with commercial laboratories, genetic testing data was obtained in a consistent, discrete format even though it is stored differently within each health care system. The majority (54%) of HBOC testing in Utah is happening in people who did not have cancer at the time of their test, and focusing on assessing testing of cancer patients will not provide comprehensive information on testing done in the state. Among individuals with cancer, access to family history information is crucial for assessing the rate of PVs and utility of testing criteria.

Genetic testing documentation in survivorship care plans in patients with breast cancer

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Background: Genetic testing results for germline mutations impact care of cancer survivors, thus are important to include in a survivorship care plan (SCP). In 2014, the Commission on Cancer adopted the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s SCP template and included a section on cancer genetic testing and results. However, data on its implementation is scant. We assessed documentation of genetic testing results in SCPs in various genetic test result groups and by primary oncology treatment team (PT) and consulting survivorship team (ST). Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of breast cancer patients who had a survivorship visit at our institution from February 2015 to January 2020, were seen by a genetic counselor (GC), and had genetic testing for germline mutations for hereditary predisposition to cancer (GGT). We compared the extent of documentation of GGT between the PT and ST’s SCPs, and among result categories (positive, negative, and variant of uncertain significance (VUS)) for occurrence of genetic testing, name of panel tested, GC recommendations, GC name/contact information, and name of gene involved and site of mutation (when applicable). Results: Among 398 women with breast cancer (DCIS 3%, Stage I 47%, Stage II 40%, Stage III 10%), median age was 49 years (range 27-77 years); 91% were non-Hispanic white, 4.7% black, 2.7% Asian, and 1% were Hispanic. GGT was documented in 93.7% of SCPs overall. GGT results were positive in 12.8%, negative in 65.8%, and VUS in 21.4%. The ST (75% SCPs) more often included GGT documentation in SCP as compared to PT (95.7% vs 87.9%, p = 0.006). There was no difference in GGT documentation by result category (positive 96.1%, negative 92.4%, VUS 96.5%, p = 0.3). GGT documentation was more detailed by ST as compared to PT, with name of panel tested included in 97% vs 92% of SCPs (p < 0.001). Of those with positive or VUS results, the name of the involved gene was included in 95% vs 77% (p = 0.003), and the site of mutation in 82% vs 48% (p < 0.001) of SCPs (ST vs PT). Only 56% of SCPs in the positive results group included all GC’s screening and follow up recommendations, while 84.7% in the VUS and 92% in the negative results group included them (p < 0.001). GC name/contact information were more often documented in ST’s SCPs (66% vs 8%; p < 0.001), with overall reporting being low in all result categories (positive 49%, negative 54%, VUS 48%). Conclusions: Overall, SCPs were likely to have documentation of GGT occurrence, name of tested panel and involved genes, but less frequently included the specific mutation identified, GC contact information, or GC recommendations for those with positive results. Documentation tended to be more complete for SCPs performed by ST rather than by PT. The causes of this discrepancy are unclear and may be related to different levels of comfort with and knowledge of GGT. Further study is needed to identify knowledge gaps and processes to improve documentation of GGT in SCPs.

Review of cohort diversity in the development and validation of cancer risk assessment models

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Background: Multiple validated models have been proposed to quantify an individual's lifetime risk of breast and colon cancer. However, an evaluation of the race and ethnicity of the cohorts studied in the development and validation of each of these models has not been reviewed. Predicting cancer risks accurately in Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) can be crucial in helping to reduce cancer mortality rates and improving access to preventative care for these individuals. Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify published development and validation studies for the following cancer risk assessment models: Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC) Risk Calculator, Tyrer-Cuzick, Gail, Claus, CanRisk/BOADICEA, BRCAPRO and MMRPRO. Articles included were identified through review of a number of electronic databases and websites for the cancer risk prediction models. Authors were contacted for data not readily available through literature search. Results: A total of 15 development studies and 19 validation studies of the cancer risk prediction models were reviewed for the seven models listed above. Out of the 19 validation studies, seven were internal and twelve were external validation studies. 80% (12/15) of development studies and 68% (13/19) of validation studies did not include information on racial and ethnic composition of the cohorts. After obtaining additional information from authors, 53% (8/15) of the development studies were conducted solely in non-Hispanic White (NHW) cohort. The development cohorts ranged from 50%-100% NHW, 0%-7% non-Hispanic Black (NHB), 0%-8% Hispanic/Latinx, 0%-3% Asian and 0%-1% Indigenous participants. 58% (7/12) of external validation studies included ethnically and racially diverse populations compared to 14% (1/7) of internal validation studies. The BCBS, Gail, BRCAPRO and MMRPRO models were the only models with external validation studies conducted in ethnically or racially diverse populations. Overall, the model that had the most diverse cohort for its development and internal validation studies was the BCBS with 70% NHW, 6.7% NHB, 7.5% Hispanic/Latinx, 2.7% Asian, 0.8% Indigenous and 11.5% mixed/other ethnicities. Conclusions: The majority of the models reviewed did not have ethnically or racially diverse populations in their development and validation cohorts. Awareness of the under-representation of ethnically and racially diverse populations in these models is an important precaution for extrapolating data when using these models in medical decision making for BIPOC individuals. Although several barriers exist for participation of BIPOC individuals in clinical studies, these findings highlight the critical, yet unmet need for the development and use of appropriate cancer risk models in racially and ethnically diverse populations as a means to reduce health-related disparities.

Evaluation of cohort diversity in development and validation studies of hereditary cancer genetic risk assessment models

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Background: Multiple models estimate a person’s chance of harboring a pathogenic variant increasing cancer risk. Some pathogenic variants are more common in individuals from specific ancestries, such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 founder variants in Ashkenazi Jews. Yet data remains limited on the larger variant spectrum seen among people of different ancestral backgrounds and whether or not the pathogenic variant frequency differs in many populations. Due to this, it is important that genetic risk assessment models be validated in a diverse cohort including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify published development and validation studies for the following genetic risk assessment models: BRCAPRO, MMRPRO, CanRisk/BOADICEA, Tyrer-Cuzick, and PREMM. Validation studies that only evaluated the cancer risk prediction capabilities of the models (and not the genetic variant risk prediction) were excluded. The following participant information was abstracted from each study: total number of participants, gender, race, and ethnicity. Authors were contacted to obtain missing information (if available). Results: 12 development and 12 validation studies of the genetic risk assessment models BRCAPRO, MMRPRO, CanRisk/BOADICEA, Tyrer-Cuzick, and PREMM were abstracted. Of the validation studies, five were internal validation studies conducted by the model developers, and seven were external validation studies. Four external validation studies compared multiple models. 75% (18/24) of papers did not include reporting of participant race or ethnicity information in their published reports. External validation studies (4/7, 57%) more often reported participant race/ethnicity than development (0/12, 0%) or internal validation (2/5, 40%) studies. The external validation studies for BRCAPRO reporting race/ethnicity information involved cohorts that ranged from 50-51% non-Ashkenazi Jewish white, 28% African American, 1% Asian, 2-49% Hispanic, and 19-42% Ashkenazi Jewish. The external validation studies for MMRPRO and PREMM reporting race/ethnicity information involved cohort that ranged from 0-82% white, 4-100% Asian, 7% Black, and 7% Hispanic. Conclusions: Increased reporting of participant ancestry and ethnicity is needed in the development and validation studies of genetic risk assessment models. BRCAPRO’s validation cohorts have included a higher percentage of Hispanic and Black/African American participants, while MMRPRO and PREMM have been validated in a higher percentage of Asian participants. As debate continues about the utility of currently used racial categories in genetics research, it will be important to determine how best to report on participant diversity. These findings highlight the continued need for genetics researchers to engage BIPOC and identify ways to diversify their participant cohorts.

Is CTLA4 targeting the Achilles’ heel of Merkel cell carcinoma?

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Background: Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous malignancy with neuroendocrine differentiation, linked to infection with polyomavirus (MCPyV) in 80% of cases. PD1 inhibitors have recently been approved for this indication with ORR, 33-56%; CR, 11-24%; PFS, about 17 months; OS, about 12 months. Nivolumab was tested in the neoadjuvant setting with similar responses with pathological CR, 47%. Methods: Adjuvant pilot study (NCT03798639) with two immunotherapy regimens administered for one year to patients with completely resected MCC at high risk of recurrence (primary lesion of 2 cm or greater, positive or close margins ( < 2 cm), perineural or lymphovascular invasion, mitotic index ≥ 20 mitotic figures per mm2, lymph node involvement (stage pIIIA or pIIIB) with or without extracapsular extension, or completely resected stage IV disease). Arm 1, nivolumab 480 mg q 4 wks and radiation therapy (RT) 50-60 Gy in 25-30 fractions, per standard of care. Arm 2, nivolumab 240 mg q 2 wks and ipilimumab 1 mg/kg q 6 wks. Primary objective was feasibility and completion of treatment in this population. Safety profile (CTCAE v5.0) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) after 18 months were secondary endpoints. Patients were randomly allocated 1:1. Results: Ten patients were screened from January 2019 until April 2020, when COVID put the study on hold and the sponsor discontinued the free drug supply. Seven were enrolled. Four were allocated to Arm 1 and three to Arm 2. Patient characteristics in Table. All patients have completed treatment and are in follow-up. Arm 1: all four patients completed radiation therapy and immunotherapy with no dose modifications or delays. Arm 2: one patient had nivolumab delayed 2 weeks for cellulitis, and another missed the last four last doses of nivolumab for cholecystitis and pancreatitis requiring surgery, unrelated to the immunotherapy. Adverse events (AE) were as expected. Arm1 caused more grade 2 and 3 AEs then Arm2 (no grade 3). One patient each discontinued treatment, in Arm 1 for progression and Arm 2 for immunotoxicity (temporal arteritis grade 2). One recurrence was observed in Arm 1 and none in Arm 2. Conclusions: The number of patients expected to recur at 1 year is 20%. Our observed data is insufficient to establish efficacy. However with no patient recurring in the ipilimumab arm after 18 months of follow-up and lower observed side effects, we would favor this regimen for the next trial. Clinical trial information: NCT03798639. [Table: see text]

The State of Melanoma: Emergent Challenges and Opportunities

Five years ago, the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) conducted an assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing the melanoma research community and patients with melanoma. Since then, remarkable progress has been made on both the basic and clinical research fronts. However, the incidence, recurrence, and death rates for melanoma remain unacceptably high and significant challenges remain. Hence, the MRF Scientific Advisory Council and Breakthrough Consortium, a group that includes clinicians and scientists, reconvened to facilitate intensive discussions on thematic areas essential to melanoma researchers and patients alike, prevention, detection, diagnosis, metastatic dormancy and progression, response and resistance to targeted and immune-based therapy, and the clinical consequences of COVID-19 for patients with melanoma and providers. These extensive discussions helped to crystalize our understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the broader melanoma community today. In this report, we discuss the progress made since the last MRF assessment, comment on what remains to be overcome, and offer recommendations for the best path forward.

Prognostic Gene Expression Profiling in Cutaneous Melanoma: Identifying the Knowledge Gaps and Assessing the Clinical Benefit

Importance

Use of prognostic gene expression profile (GEP) testing in cutaneous melanoma (CM) is rising despite a lack of endorsement as standard of care.

Objective

To develop guidelines within the national Melanoma Prevention Working Group (MPWG) on integration of GEP testing into the management of patients with CM, including (1) review of published data using GEP tests, (2) definition of acceptable performance criteria, (3) current recommendations for use of GEP testing in clinical practice, and (4) considerations for future studies.

Evidence Review

The MPWG members and other international melanoma specialists participated in 2 online surveys and then convened a summit meeting. Published data and meeting abstracts from 2015 to 2019 were reviewed.

Findings

The MPWG members are optimistic about the future use of prognostic GEP testing to improve risk stratification and enhance clinical decision-making but acknowledge that current utility is limited by test performance in patients with stage I disease. Published studies of GEP testing have not evaluated results in the context of all relevant clinicopathologic factors or as predictors of regional nodal metastasis to replace sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). The performance of GEP tests has generally been reported for small groups of patients representing particular tumor stages or in aggregate form, such that stage-specific performance cannot be ascertained, and without survival outcomes compared with data from the American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition melanoma staging system international database. There are significant challenges to performing clinical trials incorporating GEP testing with SLNB and adjuvant therapy. The MPWG members favor conducting retrospective studies that evaluate multiple GEP testing platforms on fully annotated archived samples before embarking on costly prospective studies and recommend avoiding routine use of GEP testing to direct patient management until prospective studies support their clinical utility.

Conclusions and Relevance

More evidence is needed to support using GEP testing to inform recommendations regarding SLNB, intensity of follow-up or imaging surveillance, and postoperative adjuvant therapy. The MPWG recommends further research to assess the validity and clinical applicability of existing and emerging GEP tests. Decisions on performing GEP testing and patient management based on these results should only be made in the context of discussion of testing limitations with the patient or within a multidisciplinary group.

Adjuvant crizotinib in high-risk uveal melanoma following definitive therapy

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Background: Uveal melanomas (UM) measuring at least 12mm in base diameter with a class 2 signature as defined by gene expression profiling (DecisionDx-UM) are characterized by high metastatic risk, with a median time to recurrence of 32 months. No therapy has been shown to reduce this risk. The growth factor receptor Met is highly expressed in UM. We have previously shown that crizotinib, an inhibitor of Met, is an effective adjuvant therapy in preclinical models (Surriga et al, Mol Cancer Ther 2013). We therefore conducted a phase II study of adjuvant crizotinib in high-risk UM. Methods: Eligibility included: primary lesion ≥12mm in base diameter; class 2 by DecisionDx-UM testing; definitive therapy within 120 days before starting crizotinib; and, no evidence of metastatic disease. Patients (pts) received 12 four-week cycles of crizotinib (250 mg twice daily). Surveillance imaging (chest CT and MRI abdomen/pelvis) were performed q3 months. The primary endpoint was distant relapse-free survival (RFS). Secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and toxicity. We hypothesized that the addition of crizotinib would increase the 32 month RFS from 50% to 75% (α = 0.05; β = 0.11). Results: As of 1/31/2020, 34 pts had enrolled and received at least one dose of study drug with median age of 60 (range, 26-86); 41% female; and median ECOG PS 0 (range, 0-1). 2 pts could not be evaluated for the primary endpoint due to early withdrawal and loss to follow-up. The median time from primary treatment to crizotinib initiation was 60 days (range, 0-106). All pts experienced a treatment-related adverse event (AE) of any grade. 11/34 (32%) experienced a grade 3 or 4 AE, the most common being transaminase elevation (n = 8/11). 9 pts (28%) did not complete the full 48-week treatment course due to disease recurrence (n = 5) or toxicity (n = 4). An additional 5 pts required dose reduction due to hepatic toxicity or diarrhea. 15/32 evaluable pts developed distant disease relapse, with 14 developing relapse within 32 months. With a median duration of follow up of 28.7 months, the median RFS was 30.6 months (95% CI: 27.8-58.5%). The median OS was not reached. Conclusions: The use of adjuvant crizotinib in patients with high-risk UM did not reduce rates of relapse in this multicenter, single arm trial. 9/32 (28%) pts required dose modification or discontinuation due to AE which may have limited efficacy. Further investigations of adjuvant treatment options are warranted. Clinical trial information: NCT02223819.

Incidence of Hypersensitivity Reactions to Carboplatin or Paclitaxel in Patients With Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, or Primary Peritoneal Cancer With or Without BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutations

The association of BRCA mutation status with hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to carboplatin has gained interest in recent years, particularly in patients with ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer. The primary objective of this study is to determine whether the presence of BRCA mutations increased the likelihood of HSRs to carboplatin. The incidence of HSRs to paclitaxel and symptom grade based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 4.0, were explored as secondary endpoints. A retrospective chart review of patients with ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer at the University of Arizona Cancer Center who underwent treatment with carboplatin-containing regimens and received genetic testing was performed. Institutional review board approval was obtained for this study. Fisher's exact test was used to analyze the primary outcome. Out of 167 initial patients, 62 with germline test results constituted the evaluable sample. 15 of 62 (24.2%) BRCA-tested patients were treated with carboplatin monotherapy, while 44 of 62 (71.0%) patients were treated with paclitaxel-containing regimens. Hypersensitivity reactions occurred in 4 of 13 (30.8%) BRCA-mutated patients and 22 of 49 (44.9%) BRCA wild-type patients (p = .5291). Hypersensitivity reactions to paclitaxel occurred in 1 of 13 (7.7%) BRCA-mutated patients and 26 of 49 (53.1%) BRCA wild-type patients (p = .0039). Overall, there were 11 grade 1 reactions, 14 grade 2 reactions, and 16 grade 3 reactions to carboplatin. All reactions to carboplatin in BRCA-mutated patients were grade 1. All paclitaxel reactions manifested as grade 2. The sample size was the main study limitation. The presence of BRCA mutations was not statistically significantly associated with a higher incidence of HSRs to carboplatin, but was statistically significant with regards to paclitaxel.

A phase II study of PD-1 inhibition for the prevention of colon adenomas in patients with Lynch syndrome and a history of partial colectomy

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Background: Colon cancers and adenomas that are associated with Lynch syndrome (LS) often display microsatellite instability (MSI), a characteristic that is associated with increased response to treatment with PD-1 inhibitors. Because LS patients with a history of colon cancer are at increased risk of having a second primary colon cancer or high-risk adenoma, preventive measures are of particular interest in this population. We hypothesize that a maintenance schedule of nivolumab can be safely administered to LS patients with a history of treated colon cancer with remaining colon at risk in order to decrease the incidence of adenomas, advanced adenomas and second primary colon cancers. Methods: OSU 17198 is a phase II multi-center, single-arm study of nivolumab in patients with germline MLH1 or MSH2 mutations and a history of hemicolectomy for colon cancer at least one year prior to study entry. Subjects must have completed any adjuvant therapy at least 6 months prior to study participation and may not have received prior therapy with a PD-1 inhibitor. Nivolumab is given at 240mg IV every 3 months for two years, and colonoscopies will be performed prior to study entry, after the fourth dose, after the eighth dose, and one year after the eighth dose. Subjects will be monitored for auto-immune adverse effects. The primary endpoint is incidence of adenomas at three years, and secondary endpoints are safety, incidence of advanced adenomas, and incidence of colon and non-colon cancers at three years. Approximately 104 subjects will be enrolled to obtain 94 evaluable subjects. This study is currently open for enrollment at the Ohio State University and at various stages of activation at seven additional sites in the United States. Enrollment of this study is anticipated to be completed in 2020, and data collection is anticipated to be complete in 2023. This study has undergone safety review by the FDA and the Ohio State University Institutional Review Board. Clinical trial information: NCT03631641.

Chemoprevention agents for melanoma: A path forward into phase 3 clinical trials

Recent progress in the treatment of advanced melanoma has led to unprecedented improvements in overall survival and, as these new melanoma treatments have been developed and deployed in the clinic, much has been learned about the natural history of the disease. Now is the time to apply that knowledge toward the design and clinical evaluation of new chemoprevention agents. Melanoma chemoprevention has the potential to reduce dramatically both the morbidity and the high costs associated with treating patients who have metastatic disease. In this work, scientific and clinical melanoma experts from the national Melanoma Prevention Working Group, composed of National Cancer Trials Network investigators, discuss research aimed at discovering and developing (or repurposing) drugs and natural products for the prevention of melanoma and propose an updated pipeline for translating the most promising agents into the clinic. The mechanism of action, preclinical data, epidemiological evidence, and results from available clinical trials are discussed for each class of compounds. Selected keratinocyte carcinoma chemoprevention studies also are considered, and a rationale for their inclusion is presented. These data are summarized in a table that lists the type and level of evidence available for each class of agents. Also included in the discussion is an assessment of additional research necessary and the likelihood that a given compound may be a suitable candidate for a phase 3 clinical trial within the next 5 years.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations and colorectal cancer risk: Systematic review and meta-analysis

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Background: The risks of breast and ovarian cancer associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are well established. Investigations of the association of BRCA mutations and the risk of colorectal cancer(CRC) have yielded conflicting results. We performed a systematic review of published and unpublished studies evaluating BRCA and CRC risk, and meta-analyses to quantify overall CRC risk and in subgroups of BRCA mutation carriers. Methods: Eligible studies were retrieved from PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertation & Theses. Unadjusted odds ratios were used to derive pooled estimates of CRC risk overall (combined BRCA1/BRCA2) and in subgroups defined by mutation type, comparison group, and study design. Both fixed and random effects models were estimated with the latter having priority. We followed the guidelines summarized in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) as well as the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) statements. Results: A total of 18 studies were included in the systematic review: 7 cohort studies comparing to the general population, 5 case-control studies, 4 cohort studies involving pedigree analysis, and 2 kin-cohort studies. Fourteen studies included in the systematic review were used in the meta-analysis. The overall BRCA1/BRCA2 meta-analysis revealed an increased CRC risk in a fixed-effects (OR = 1.22, 95%CI = 1.01-1.48, p = 0.041, I2= 19.5%) but not in a random-effects model (OR = 1.20, 95%CI = 0.96-1.50, p = 0.111). In subgroup random-effects meta-analyses, BRCA1 was associated with increased CRC risk (OR = 1.48, 95%CI = 1.13-1.94, p = 0.005, I2= 3.7%) but BRCA2 was not. Analyses stratified by study design and comparator found no association between BRCA mutation and CRC risk (all 95%CIs crossing 1, all p > 0.05). Conclusions: Although studies differed in their findings about the association between BRCA mutations and CRC risk, meta-analyses revealed a potential 1.22-fold greater risk of CRC in BRCA mutation carriers. This elevated CRC risk was attributable largely to a 1.48-fold greater risk in BRCA1 mutation but not in BRCA2 carriers, regardless of age.

Medical literature on mobile applications related to cancer

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Background: In 2014, there existed 166 mobile applications related to cancer. However, many mobile applications are being developed without published validation by the medical community. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the studies about mobile applications related to cancer. Methods: Scopus, PubMed, PMC, BVS and Scielo were systematically searched for studies published up to December 2016. A broad search using the terms “neoplasia”, “cancer”, “neoplasm”, “smartphone application” and “mobile app” was conducted. Article abstracts were reviewed for study eligibility, followed by reviews of full papers. We found 195 articles and 48 were included. Articles were included if they reviewed commercial mobile applications or if they described the development and evaluation of a mobile application related to cancer. Articles were excluded if they were about other telehealth technologies, primarily editorials, solely described study protocols, abstracts of congresses or books. Results: The earliest article was published in 2012 and there is an increasing rate of articles published. The majority of articles are original articles (85.42%) and 10 of them are clinical trials. Almost all articles were written in English (95.83%). Nearly 40% of the articles talked about mobile applications for the management of cancer. The intended audience of the mobile applications described in the studies was mostly patients. The cancers most popular among the articles were breast and skin cancers. The countries with the most studies on mobile applications related to cancer are the United States and South Korea. Conclusions: There is a large number of cancer related mobile applications. Further studies would help us understand the current and future use of these health related technologies. [Table: see text]

Skin cancer screening: recommendations for data-driven screening guidelines and a review of the US Preventive Services Task Force controversy

Melanoma is usually apparent on the skin and readily detected by trained medical providers using a routine total body skin examination, yet this malignancy is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. Currently, there is no national consensus on skin cancer screening in the USA, but dermatologists and primary care providers are routinely confronted with making the decision about when to recommend total body skin examinations and at what interval. The objectives of this paper are: to propose rational, risk-based, data-driven guidelines commensurate with the US Preventive Services Task Force screening guidelines for other disorders; to compare our proposed guidelines to recommendations made by other national and international organizations; and to review the US Preventive Services Task Force's 2016 Draft Recommendation Statement on skin cancer screening.

Impact of Sequencing Targeted Therapies With High-dose Interleukin-2 Immunotherapy: An Analysis of Outcome and Survival of Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma From an On-going Observational IL-2 Clinical Trial: PROCLAIMSM

BACKGROUND

This analysis describes the outcome for patients who received targeted therapy (TT) prior to or following high-dose interleukin-2 (HD IL-2).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with renal cell carcinoma (n = 352) receiving HD IL-2 were enrolled in Proleukin^R Observational Study to Evaluate the Treatment Patterns and Clinical Response in Malignancy (PROCLAIM^SM) beginning in 2011. Statistical analyses were performed using datasets as of September 24, 2015.

RESULTS

Overall, there were 4% complete response (CR), 13% partial response (PR), 39% stable disease (SD), and 43% progressive disease (PD) with HD IL-2. The median overall survival (mOS) was not reached in patients with CR, PR, or SD, and was 15.5 months in patients with PD (median follow-up, 21 months). Sixty-one patients had prior TT before HD IL-2 with an overall response rate (ORR) to HD IL-2 of 19% (1 CR, 9 PR) and an mOS of 22.1 months. One hundred forty-nine patients received TT only after HD IL-2 with an mOS of 35.5 months. One hundred forty-two patients had no TT before or after HD IL-2, and mOS was not reached. The mOS was 8.5 months in PD patients who received HD IL-2 without follow-on TT and 29.7 months in PD patients who received follow-on TT after HD IL-2.

CONCLUSIONS

HD IL-2 as sole front-line therapy, in the absence of added TT, shows extended clinical benefit (CR, PR, and SD). Patients with PD after HD IL-2 appear to benefit from follow-on TT. Patients who progressed on TT and received follow-on HD IL-2 experienced major clinical benefit. HD IL-2 therapy should be considered in eligible patients.

Barriers to a Career Focus in Cancer Prevention: A Report and Initial Recommendations From the American Society of Clinical Oncology Cancer Prevention Workforce Pipeline Work Group

PURPOSE

To assist in determining barriers to an oncology career incorporating cancer prevention, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Cancer Prevention Workforce Pipeline Work Group sponsored surveys of training program directors and oncology fellows.

METHODS

Separate surveys with parallel questions were administered to training program directors at their fall 2013 retreat and to oncology fellows as part of their February 2014 in-training examination survey. Forty-seven (67%) of 70 training directors and 1,306 (80%) of 1,634 oncology fellows taking the in-training examination survey answered questions.

RESULTS

Training directors estimated that ≤ 10% of fellows starting an academic career or entering private practice would have a career focus in cancer prevention. Only 15% of fellows indicated they would likely be interested in cancer prevention as a career focus, although only 12% thought prevention was unimportant relative to treatment. Top fellow-listed barriers to an academic career were difficulty in obtaining funding and lower compensation. Additional barriers to an academic career with a prevention focus included unclear career model, lack of clinical mentors, lack of clinical training opportunities, and concerns about reimbursement.

CONCLUSION

Reluctance to incorporate cancer prevention into an oncology career seems to stem from lack of mentors and exposure during training, unclear career path, and uncertainty regarding reimbursement. Suggested approaches to begin to remedy this problem include: 1) more ASCO-led and other prevention educational resources for fellows, training directors, and practicing oncologists; 2) an increase in funded training and clinical research opportunities, including reintroduction of the R25T award; 3) an increase in the prevention content of accrediting examinations for clinical oncologists; and 4) interaction with policymakers to broaden the scope and depth of reimbursement for prevention counseling and intervention services.

Phase IIB Randomized Study of Topical Difluoromethylornithine and Topical Diclofenac on Sun-Damaged Skin of the Forearm

Prevention of nonmelanoma skin cancers remains a health priority due to high costs associated with this disease. Diclofenac and difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) have demonstrated chemopreventive efficacy for cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. We designed a randomized study of the combination of DFMO and diclofenac in the treatment of sun-damaged skin. Individuals with visible cutaneous sun damage were eligible. Subjects were randomized to one of the three groups: topical DFMO applied twice daily, topical diclofenac applied daily, or DFMO plus diclofenac. The treatment was limited to an area on the left forearm, and the duration of use was 90 days. We hypothesized that combination therapy would have increased efficacy compared with single-agent therapy. The primary outcome was change in karyometric average nuclear abnormality (ANA) in the treated skin. Individuals assessing the biomarkers were blinded regarding the treatment for each subject. A total of 156 subjects were randomized; 144 had baseline and end-of-study biopsies, and 136 subjects completed the study. The ANA unexpectedly increased for all groups, with higher values correlating with clinical cutaneous inflammation. Nearly all of the adverse events were local cutaneous effects. One subject had cutaneous toxicity that required treatment discontinuation. Significantly more adverse events were seen in the groups taking diclofenac. Overall, the study indicated that the addition of topical DFMO to topical diclofenac did not enhance its activity. Both agents caused inflammation on a cellular and clinical level, which may have confounded the measurement of chemopreventive effects. More significant effects may be observed in subjects with greater baseline cutaneous damage.

Salpingectomy as a means to reduce ovarian cancer risk

Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) has become the standard-of-care for risk reduction in women at hereditary risk of ovarian cancer. Although this procedure significantly decreases both the incidence of and mortality from ovarian cancer, it affects quality of life, and the premature cessation of ovarian function may have long-term health hazards. Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular pathways of ovarian cancer point to the fallopian tube epithelium as the origin of most high-grade serous cancers (HGSC). This evolving appreciation of the role of the fallopian tube in HGSC has led to the consideration of salpingectomy alone as an option for risk management, especially in premenopausal women. In addition, it is postulated that bilateral salpingectomy with ovarian retention (BSOR), may have a public health benefit for women undergoing benign gynecologic surgery. In this review, we provide the rationale for salpingectomy as an ovarian cancer risk reduction strategy.

Use of ipilimumab in the treatment of melanoma

Ipilimumab is a monoclonal antibody directed against cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 that has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Phase III trials have demonstrated an overall survival benefit with its use when compared with standard treatments and other investigational therapies. However, the drug poses a notable challenge, given its propensity for toxicity, and requires close surveillance when administered in clinical practice. This review discusses the mechanism of action for ipilimumab, its preclinical data, and the clinical trials that led to its approval by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011.

An unusual BRCA mutation distribution in a high risk cancer genetics clinic

The Database of Individuals at High Risk for Breast, Ovarian, or Other Hereditary Cancers at the Arizona Cancer Center in Tucson, Arizona assesses cancer risk factors and outcomes in patients with a family history of cancer or a known genetic mutation. We analyzed the subset of clinic probands who carry deleterious BRCA gene mutations to identify factors that could explain why mutations in BRCA2 outnumber those in BRCA1. Medical, family, social, ethnic and genetic mutation histories were collected from consenting patients' electronic medical records. Differences between BRCA1 and BRCA2 probands from this database were analyzed for statistical significance and compared to published analyses. A significantly higher proportion of our clinic probands carry mutations in BRCA2 than BRCA1, compared with previous reports of mutation prevalence. This also holds true for the Hispanic sub-group. Probands with BRCA2 mutations were significantly more likely than their BRCA1 counterparts to present to the high risk clinic without a diagnosis of cancer. Other differences between the groups were not significant. Six previously unreported BRCA2 mutations appear in our clinic population. The increased proportion of probands carrying deleterious BRCA2 mutations is likely multifactorial, but may reflect aspects of Southern Arizona's unique ethnic heritage.

Difluoromethylornithine: the proof is in the polyamines

In this issue (beginning on page 1368), Kreul and colleagues report a retrospective review of long-term efficacy and toxicity for subjects participating in a phase III study of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) for prevention of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). They conclude that those treated with DFMO had a nonsignificant, persistent decrease in NMSC after completion of treatment and that treatment with DFMO did not result in late toxicity after the discontinuation of treatment. We review the data on DFMO as a chemopreventive agent for skin and other cancers, discuss the necessary qualities of a cancer chemopreventive agent, and reflect on the requirements for a well-conducted cancer chemoprevention study, including the rationale for long-term follow-up in cancer prevention studies.

Relationship of bleeding to pathologic ulceration in a primary melanoma lesion

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Background: Lesion bleeding (BL) is a catalyst symptom leading to melanoma (MEL) diagnosis and is associated with adverse outcomes. The pathophysiologic significance of BL has not been elucidated. We hypothesize that BL reflects pathologic ulceration (UL). Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 850 patients seen 2005-2009 at our center. Eligible patients reported the pre-diagnosis BL status of their primary lesion; determination of its UL status was also required. Demographic, clinical, pathologic and outcomes data were abstracted from records. Χ2 and independent t-tests were used for univariate comparisons. Predictors of UL were analyzed with multiple logistic regression. Survival indices were analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier, log-rank, and Cox proportional hazards. Results: 190 patients with 193 MEL lesions were eligible. Median follow-up was 5.3 yr. 67 lesions bled prior to diagnosis; 68 demonstrated UL. BL and UL were associated with each other and with Breslow depth in univariate analyses; UL was also associated with age at diagnosis. Neither was associated with gender, lesion site, use of BL-associated drugs or Clark’s level. A logistic model was developed using BL, gender, lesion site, use of BL-associated drugs, and age at diagnosis. Only BL and age at diagnosis were associated with UL probability (OR=10.6/p<0.001 and OR=1.04/p=0.006, respectively). BL was associated with worsened median relapse-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) (median 1.16y vs. 1.96y, p=0.001 and 3.06 y vs. 3.41y, p=0.001), as was ulceration. When status of BL and UL were considered together, only UL predicted outcomes. A Cox model of clinical factors (BL, gender, age at diagnosis, lesion site) confirmed the association of BL with RFS and OS (HR 1.82/p=0.006 and HR 2.36/p=0.001). Addition of UL to the model abrogated BL’s predictive value. Conclusions: BL of primary MEL lesions is strongly associated with pathologic UL. When clinical parameters are considered, BL significantly predicts RFS and OS, although this value is lost once UL status is known. Our data are consistent with BL’s reflecting the ulceration status of a primary lesion. When UL status is unknown, BL may be able to serve as its surrogate marker.

Ipilimumab pharmacotherapy in patients with metastatic melanoma

Immune augmentation with ipilimumab, an anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody, has joined the ranks of approved immunologic agents for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Phase III studies of ipilimumab in metastatic melanoma have demonstrated an overall survival advantage as compared to other approved and investigational therapies. However, the adverse effects associated with this medication are unique and often require management with steroids or other immunosuppressants. In addition, the time to response differs with ipilimumab as compared to traditional chemotherapy, and alternative means of assessment of response have been proposed. In this review, we will summarize the basic science of this treatment, its preclinical evaluation, and the clinical trials leading to its approval. We will also discuss the details regarding its use, assessment of response to this drug and other immune-related therapies, and further directions for investigation.

Abstract CN02-06: Phase IIB study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical difluoromethylornithine and topical diclofenac in the treatment of sun-damaged skin

Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been shown to have a synergistic protective effect against colon cancer. As single agents, both DFMO and diclofenac have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of actinic keratoses, the cutaneous precursors to cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. We designed a study investigating the effects of these two medications, alone and in combination, on sun-damaged skin of the forearm. The primary objective is to determine whether a three-month course of combination therapy increases the efficacy over either agent used alone in the treatment of moderately sun-damaged skin. The primary endpoint is the change in karyometric values from skin biopsies before and after treatment. A total of 156 subjects were enrolled in the study and randomized to A: topical DFMO applied BID × 90 days; B: topical diclofenac applied QD × 90 days; or C: topical DFMO applied BID and topical diclofenac applied QD × 90 days. Planned sample size was 138 evaluable subjects to provide 80% power to detect the difference in response rate as measured by karyometric average nuclear abnormality (ANA) between the single-agent DFMO arm and the combination treatment arm at the 2.5% significance level. The results for efficacy and safety will be presented at the AACR Frontiers in Cancer Prevention meeting. Secondary biomarker and clinical endpoints will also be summarized. These findings will provide insight into the potential use of the combination of these medications as skin cancer chemopreventive agents.

Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2010;3(12 Suppl):CN02-06.

Genetics of colorectal cancer

Approximately 6% of colorectal cancers can be attributed to recognizable heritable germline mutations. Familial adenomatous polyposis is an autosomal dominant syndrome classically presenting with hundreds to thousands of adenomatous colorectal polyps that are caused by mutations in the APC gene. Adenomas typically develop in the midteens in these patients, and colorectal cancer is a virtual certainty if this condition is untreated. A low-penetrance susceptibility allele that is common in Jews from Eastern Europe, APC 11307K, confers a two-fold increased risk of colorectal cancer without the full expression of familial adenomatous polyposis. Biallelic mutations in the MYH gene are associated with an attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis phenotype. Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by early onset of colorectal cancer with microsatellite instability. Mutations in mismatch repair genes lead to a lifetime colon cancer risk of 85% in these patients; carcinomas of the endometrium, ovary, and other organs also occur with increased frequency. Although adenomas are not characteristic of the hamartomatous polyp syndromes such as juvenile polyposis and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, individuals with these diseases have a markedly increased risk of colorectal cancer relative to the general population. In this review, we will describe the phenotypes, genotypes, diagnosis, and management of hereditary colon cancer syndromes.

Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Breast and Ovarian Clinical Practice Guidelines

Recent advances in molecular genetics have identified several genes associated with inherited susceptibility to cancer and have provided a means to begin identifying individuals and families with an increased risk of cancer. This rapid expansion of knowledge about cancer genetics has implications for all aspects of cancer management, including prevention, screening, and treatment. These guidelines specifically address hereditary breast/ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC), Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and Cowden syndrome. These guidelines were developed understanding that much of our knowledge of how the rapidly emerging field of molecular genetics can be applied clinically is preliminary and that flexibility is needed when applying these guidelines to individual families.

For the most recent version of the guidelines, please visit NCCN.org

Intestinal blood loss during cow milk feeding in older infants: quantitative measurements

OBJECTIVE

To determine the response, in terms of fecal hemoglobin excretion and clinical symptoms, of normal 9 1/2-month-old infants to being fed cow milk.

DESIGN

Longitudinal (before-after) trial in which each infant was fed formula for 1 month (baseline) followed by 3 months during which cow milk was fed.

SETTING

Healthy infants living in Iowa City, Iowa, a town with a population of about 60,000.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Hemoglobin concentration in spot stools, 96-hour quantitative fecal hemoglobin excretion, stool characteristics, feeding-related behaviors, and iron nutritional status.

RESULTS

Fecal hemoglobin concentration during formula feeding (baseline) was higher than previously observed in younger infants. Nine of 31 infants responded to cow milk feeding with increased fecal hemoglobin concentration. Fecal hemoglobin concentration (mean +/- SD) of the 9 responders rose from 1,395 +/- 856 microg/g of dry stool (baseline) to 2,711 +/- 1,732 microg/g of dry stool (P=.01). The response rate (29%) was similar to that in younger infants, but the intensity of the response was much less. Quantitative hemoglobin excretion was in general agreement with estimates based on spot stool hemoglobin concentrations. Cow milk feeding was not associated with recognizable changes in stool characteristics, nor were there clinical signs related to fecal blood loss. Iron status was similar, except that after 3 months of cow milk feeding responders showed lower (P= .047) ferritin concentrations than nonresponders.

CONCLUSIONS

Cow milk-induced blood loss is present in 9 1/2-month-old infants but is of such low intensity that its clinical significance seems questionable. Nevertheless, infants without cow milk-induced blood loss were in better iron nutritional status than infants who showed blood loss.