English version of Japanese Clinical Practice Guidelines 2022 for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) issued by the Japan Society of Clinical Oncology

The Japan Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guidelines 2022 for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) have been published in accordance with the Minds Manual for Guideline Development 2014 and 2017. A specialized team independent of the working group for the revision performed a systematic review. Since GIST is a rare type of tumor, clinical evidence is not sufficient to answer several clinical and background questions. Thus, in these guidelines, we considered that consensus among the experts who manage GIST, the balance between benefits and harms, patients' wishes, medical economic perspective, etc. are important considerations in addition to the evidence. Although guidelines for the treatment of GIST have also been published by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), there are some differences between the treatments proposed in those guidelines and the treatments in the present guidelines because of the differences in health insurance systems among countries.

Outcomes of 6-mm diameter fully covered self-expandable metal stents for preoperative biliary drainage in pancreatic cancer

Background

10-mm self-expandable metal stents (SEMSs) are commonly used for preoperative biliary drainage in pancreatic cancer. However, smaller diameter SEMSs have attracted attention with the attempt to reduce stent-related adverse events (AEs).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive borderline resectable pancreatic cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy and fully covered SEMS (FCSEMS) placement from April 2015 to May 2023. The primary outcome was stent-related non-event rate (NER), which was defined as the rate of completion of surgery without developing any preoperative events (recurrent biliary obstruction [RBO] or stent-related AEs). Secondary outcomes included stent-related AEs, causes of RBO, and cumulative incidence of RBO. Risk factors for pancreatitis, RBO, and stent migration were also examined.

Results

A total of 76 patients were included (6-mm group: 23; 10-mm group: 53). Stent-related NER (57% vs. 64%, p = 0.610), stent-related AEs (4% vs. 15%, p = 0.263), overall RBO rates (39% vs. 23%, p = 0.168), cumulative incidence of RBO (hazard ratio, 2.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.95-5.25; p = 0.065) were not significantly different between the two groups. Tumor involvement of the pancreatic duct was identified as a risk-reducing factor for pancreatitis, while an FCSEMS diameter of 6 mm was not identified as a risk factor for RBO and stent migration.

Conclusions

Stent-related NER was not significantly affected by FCSEMS diameter. Further studies are needed to confirm the usefulness of 6-mm diameter FCSEMS for preoperative biliary drainage in patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

Ruptured cystic artery pseudoaneurysm after self-expandable metal stent placement for malignant biliary obstruction

We report a case of ruptured cystic artery pseudoaneurysm after self-expandable metal stent placement for malignant biliary obstruction. A 78-year-old woman on palliative care after chemotherapy for unresectable pancreatic head cancer presented with obstructive jaundice. Imaging revealed a dilated common bile duct and an enlarged gallbladder with cystic wall thickening. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was performed and a fully-covered self-expandable metal stent was placed in the bile duct, leading to resolution of jaundice. She presented with hematochezia 7 days later. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a cystic artery pseudoaneurysm with extravasation of contrast into a blood-filled gallbladder. Hemostasis was achieved after emergent transcatheter arterial embolization. Rupture of cystic artery pseudoaneurysm should be raised as a differential diagnosis for hemobilia after self-expandable metal stent placement, particularly in cases accompanied by inflamed gallbladders.

Bone loss over time and risk of osteoporosis in advanced pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer has a high risk of developing osteoporosis. However, the impact of osteoporosis has not been well-studied. This study aimed to evaluate bone loss over time and risk of osteoporosis in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively examined consecutive patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer who had evaluable computed tomography before treatment and at 1-year follow-up. Bone mineral density at the first lumbar vertebra was measured on computed tomography, and osteoporosis was defined as bone mineral density < 135 Hounsfield units. The prevalence and risk factors for osteoporosis, changes in bone mineral density over time and incidence of bone fractures were analyzed.

RESULTS

Three hundred eighty patients were included. Osteoporosis was associated with older age, female sex, low body mass index and poor performance status at baseline. A consistent decrease in bone mineral density was observed over time regardless of age, sex or disease status, resulting in an increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis over time (47% at baseline, 79% at 1 year, 88% at 2 years, 89% at 3 years, 95% at 4 years and 100% at 5 years). Changes in bone mineral density from baseline were greater in patients with locally-advanced pancreatic cancer, in those who received modified FOLFIRINOX or S-IROX for more than 3 months, and in those who received radiation therapy. Incident fractures developed in 45 patients (12%) during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures were highly prevalent in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. This study highlights the importance of screening for osteoporosis in such patients.

Risk factors for recurrent stenosis after balloon dilation for benign hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic stricture

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic stricture (HJAS) is a feared adverse event associated with hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. Although balloon dilation for benign HJAS during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with balloon-assisted enteroscopy has been reported to be useful, the treatment strategy remains controversial. Therefore, we evaluated the outcomes and risk factors of recurrent stenosis after balloon dilation alone for benign HJAS.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients who underwent balloon-assisted enteroscopy-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for benign HJAS at our institution between July 2014 and December 2020.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients were included, 16 of whom had recurrent HJAS after balloon dilation. The patency rates at 1 and 2 years after balloon dilation were 76.8% and 64.2%, respectively. Presence of a residual balloon notch during balloon dilation was an independent predictor of recurrence (hazard ratio, 2.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-7.78; p=0.048), whereas HJAS within postoperative 1 year tended to be associated with recurrence (hazard ratio, 2.43; 95% confidence interval, 0.85-6.89; p=0.096). The patency rates in patients without a residual balloon notch were 82.1% and 73.1% after 1 and 2 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Balloon dilation alone may be a viable option for patients with benign HJAS without residual balloon notches on fluoroscopy.

Current Status of Targeted Therapy for Biliary Tract Cancer in the Era of Precision Medicine

First-line chemotherapy has been established for advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC). However, few treatment options are available as second-line treatment. Advances in comprehensive genomic analysis revealed that nearly half of patients with BTC harbor targetable genetic alterations such as fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), BRAF, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), microsatellite instability (MSI)-high, neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK), rearranged during transfection (RET), and poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP). This review summarizes currently available options in precision medicine and clinical trials for patients with advanced BTC.

Early Tumor Shrinkage and Depth of Response as Predictors of Survival for Advanced Biliary Tract Cancer: An Exploratory Analysis of JCOG1113

BACKGROUND

Recent studies suggest that early tumor shrinkage (ETS) and depth of response (DpR) reflect outcomes of chemotherapy in various cancers. This study evaluated the association of ETS and DpR with clinical outcomes using data from JCOG1113, which demonstrated the non-inferiority of gemcitabine plus S-1 (GS) to gemcitabine plus cisplatin (GC) for chemotherapy-naïve advanced biliary tract cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In total, 354 (289 with measurable target lesions) patients enrolled in JCOG1113 were divided into ETS-unachieved and ETS-achieved groups (≥20% tumor reduction at week 6) and DpR-low and DpR-high groups (≥40% maximum shrinkage) until 12 weeks after enrollment. The impact of ETS and DpR on survival outcome was evaluated using the multivariable Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

The proportions of patients in the ETS-achieved and DpR-high groups were similar between the 2 treatment arms. The hazard ratios (HRs) of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for the ETS-achieved group were 0.70 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.52-0.93) and 0.60 (95%CI, 0.44-0.81), respectively. The HRs of PFS and OS for the DpR-high group were 0.67 (95%CI, 0.48-0.94) and 0.64 (95%CI, 0.46-0.90), respectively. In the subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot analysis, most patients in the ETS-achieved group in the GC arm did not experience disease progression after 12 weeks from the landmark.

CONCLUSION

As on-treatment markers, ETS and DpR were effective tools. ETS was clinically useful, because it can be used to evaluate the outcomes of treatment early at a specific time.

Rotatable sphincterotome as a rescue device for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography cannulation: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Selective bile duct or pancreatic duct cannulation remains a significant initial hurdle in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) despite advances in endoscopy and accessories. This study evaluated our experience with a rotatable sphincterotome in cases of difficult cannulation.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed ERCP cases using TRUEtome, a rotatable sphincterotome, as a rescue device for cannulation at a cancer institute in Japan from October 2014 to December 2021.

RESULTS

TRUEtome was used in 88 patients. Duodenoscopes were used for 51 patients, while single-balloon enteroscopes (SBE) were used for 37 patients. TRUEtome was used for biliary and pancreatic duct cannulation (84.1%), intrahepatic bile duct selection (12.5%), and strictures of the afferent limb (3.4%). Cannulation success rates were similar in the duodenoscope and SBE groups (86.3% vs. 75.7%, p=0.213). TRUEtome was more commonly used in cases with steep cannulation angles in the duodenoscope group and in cases requiring cannulation in different directions in the SBE group. There were no significant differences in adverse events between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The cannulation sphincterotome was useful for difficult cannulations in both unaltered and surgically altered anatomies. It may be an option to consider before high-risk procedures such as precut and endoscopic ultrasound-guided rendezvous techniques.

Splenic Hilar Involvement and Sinistral Portal Hypertension in Unresectable Pancreatic Tail Cancer

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic tail cancer (PTC) frequently displays splenic hilar involvement (SHI), but its impact on clinical outcomes remains unclear. We investigated the clinical impact of SHI in patients with unresectable PTC.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with unresectable PTC who received first-line therapy at our institution from 2016 to 2020.

RESULTS

Of the 111 included patients, 48 had SHI at diagnosis. SHI was significantly associated with younger age, liver metastasis, peritoneal dissemination, larger tumor size, modified Glasgow prognostic score of 1 or more, splenic artery involvement, gastric varices, and splenomegaly. Shorter median overall survival (OS; 9.3 vs. 11.6 months, p = 0.003) and progression-free survival (PFS; 4.3 vs. 6.3 months, p = 0.013) were observed in SHI patients. Poor performance status of 1 or 2, tumor size > 50 mm, hepatic metastasis, mGPS of 1 or 2, and SHI (hazard ratio: 1.65, 95% confidence interval: 1.08-2.52, p = 0.020) were independent predictors of shorter OS. Splenic artery pseudoaneurysm rupture and variceal rupture were rare and only observed in cases with SHI.

CONCLUSIONS

Splenic hilar involvement is associated with worse outcomes in pancreatic tail cancer.

Outcomes of lung oligometastasis in pancreatic cancer

OBJECTIVE

Pancreatic cancer with lung oligometastasis may have favourable overall survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of pancreatic cancer with lung oligometastases including both synchronous and metachronous metastases.

METHODS

Consecutive pancreatic cancer patients with lung metastasis treated at our institution between February 2015 and December 2021 were identified from our prospectively maintained database. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared and analysed according to the extent of lung metastases. Predictors for overall survival were analysed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

A totoal of 171 patients were included (oligometastasis/polymetastasis/multi-organ metastasis: 34/50/87). Patients with oligometastases were more likely to undergo surgical resection (41% vs. 0% vs. 2%) and showed a longer median overall survival (41.3 vs. 17.6 vs. 13.1 months) compared with those with other types of metastases. Oligometastasis (hazard ratio, 0.43; 95% confidence interval, 0.24-0.76; P = 0.004) was identified as an independent factor predicting favourable overall survival in patients with lung-only metastasis. Disease status (synchronous vs. metachronous) was not associated with survival in patients with oligometastasis (29.4 vs. 41.3 months, P = 0.527) and polymetastasis (17.9 vs. 16.7 months, P = 0.545). Selected patients who underwent surgical resection showed a median overall survival of 52.7 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with lung oligometastases presented a favourable prognosis. Surgical resection in selected patients was associated with a long median overall survival.

Development of a nomogram to predict survival in advanced biliary tract cancer

The prognosis of advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) patients remains poor due to limited efficacy of chemotherapy and difficulties in management. Thus, prediction of survival is crucial for the clinical management of advanced BTC. The aim was to develop and validate a nomogram to predict 6-month and 12-month survival in advanced BTC patients treated with chemotherapy. A multivariable Cox regression model was used to construct a nomogram in a training set (JCOG1113, a phase III trial comparing gemcitabine plus S-1 [GS] and gemcitabine plus cisplatin, n = 351). External validity of the nomogram was assessed using a test set (JCOG0805, a randomized, phase II trial comparing GS and S-1 alone, n = 100). Predictive performance was assessed in terms of discrimination and calibration. The constructed nomogram included lymph node metastasis, liver metastasis, carbohydrate antigen 19-9, carcinoembryonic antigen, albumin, and C-reactive protein. Uno's concordance index was 0.661 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.629-0.696) in the training set and 0.640 (95% CI 0.566-0.715) in the test set. The calibration plots for 6-month and 12-month survival showed good agreement in the two analysis sets. The present nomogram can facilitate prediction of the prognosis of advanced BTC patients treated with chemotherapy and help clinicians' prognosis-based decision-making.

Factors associated with lenvatinib adherence in thyroid cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Lenvatinib is an oral anticancer medication used to treat radioiodine-refractory thyroid cancer and unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. The purpose of this study is to evaluate lenvatinib adherence by patients and to identify factors associated with decreased lenvatinib adherence.

METHODS

Among 153 patients who started treatment with lenvatinib for unresectable thyroid cancer or unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma between May 1, 2015 and August 31 2021 at the Cancer Institute Hospital of the Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 102 were eligible for this study (55 thyroid cancer, 47 hepatocellular carcinoma). The lenvatinib adherence rate in a treatment cycle was defined as the number of times a patient took lenvatinib in a 28-day cycle divided by the prescribed 28 doses. The rate was determined by pill counting and self-reporting at the pharmaceutical outpatient clinic. Reasons for non-adherence were established by interview and analyzed.

RESULTS

The median adherence rate of lenvatinib in the first cycle was 90.1% (n = 55) in thyroid cancer and 94.9% (n = 47) in hepatocellular carcinoma. In thyroid cancer, there were 255 incidents of lenvatinib non-adherence. Non-adherence was mainly associated with bleeding events (18.6%), followed by hand-foot skin reactions (10.6%). In hepatocellular carcinoma, there were 97 incidents of non-adherence. Hypertension accounted for 20.6%, followed by hoarseness (18.6%) and diarrhea (17.5%).

CONCLUSION

The adherence rate for lenvatinib in Japanese patients with thyroid and hepatocellular carcinoma in real-world clinical practice was more than 90% in this study. Hypertension was a major reason for non-adherence, followed by hand-foot skin reactions and diarrhea.

The impact of osteosarcopenia in patients with unresectable or recurrent biliary tract cancer receiving palliative chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Osteosarcopenia is a newly described syndrome that has been reported to be associated with worse outcomes in various types of cancer. However, its impact on survival in biliary tract cancer remains unclear. This study evaluated the impact of osteosarcopenia on survival in patients with unresectable or recurrent biliary tract cancer.

METHODS

A total of 306 patients with unresectable or recurrent biliary tract cancer who initiated chemotherapy at our institution between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively investigated. Skeletal muscle index and bone mineral density were measured using pretreatment cross-sectional computed tomography images. Baseline characteristics and survival outcomes were compared between patients with osteosarcopenia and those without. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify factors associated with survival.

RESULTS

Osteosarcopenia was present in 66 patients (22%) and was associated with older age (74 vs. 69 years, P < 0.001) and female sex (58 vs. 37%, P = 0.003). Patients with osteosarcopenia tended to have worse performance status (P = 0.098), higher modified Glasgow prognostic score (P = 0.082), higher neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (P = 0.058) and were significantly less likely to receive combination chemotherapy (68 vs. 80%, P = 0.044) than those without. Osteosarcopenia was associated with reduced survival (8.9 vs. 14.0 months, P < 0.001) and was identified as an independent factor predicting shorter survival in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteosarcopenia was associated with poor survival in unresectable or recurrent biliary tract cancer treated with chemotherapy. This study highlights the potential importance of screening for osteosarcopenia in patients with biliary tract cancer.

Re-appraisal of the universal definition of tumor rupture among patients with high-risk gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Aim

Tumor rupture has been indicated as a risk factor for recurrence of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). The universal definition of tumor rupture was proposed. This study evaluated whether the universal definition was more accurate in identification of GISTs with high recurrent risk than subjective judgment.

Methods

The study included 507 patients with high-risk GISTs who underwent complete resection between December 2012 and December 2015. We conducted a questionnaire survey in participating institutes to re-diagnose tumor rupture based on the universal definition according to their surgical and pathological findings. We compared the clinical outcomes of tumor rupture based on the definition to those based on the surgeon's judgment and clarified the clinical importance of the rupture.

Results

Sixty-four patients were initially registered to have tumor rupture by surgeon's judgment, and it became 90 patients who had tumor rupture after reevaluation. Although there were significant differences in recurrence-free survival (RFS) between no rupture and rupture for both initial registration and reevaluation (p = 0.002, <0.001, respectively), a significant difference in overall survival was only observed after reevaluation (p = 0.011). Tumor rupture was significantly associated with large tumor size, mixed cell type in histology, R1 resection, frequent adjuvant therapy and recurrence, but not with location, mitosis, and genotype. Adjuvant therapy more than 3 years improved RFS of patients with tumor rupture.

Conclusion

This study suggested that tumor rupture based on the universal definition more accurately identified GISTs with poor prognostic outcomes than the subjective judgment.

FOLFIRINOX in Pancreatic Cancer: Risk Factors for Febrile Neutropenia and Severe Neutropenia - Nationwide Study Analysis

BACKGROUND/AIM

FOLFIRINOX (FFX) is a standard treatment for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. However, it often causes serious hematological adverse events. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for febrile neutropenia (FN) and grade 4 (G4) neutropenia during treatment with FFX in the real world.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed data obtained from a nationwide multicenter observational study (JASPAC 06) that included 399 patients with unresectable or recurrent pancreatic cancer who received FFX at 27 institutions in Japan.

RESULTS

Nadir neutrophil counts occurred from day 8 to day 22 of cycle 1, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor was administered to over a quarter of the patients in the first cycle. Of 399 patients, FN and G4 neutropenia occurred in 51 (13%) and 108 (27%) patients, respectively. Most FN (83%) and G4 neutropenia (75%) occurred in the first or second cycles. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that total bilirubin (TB) > the upper limit of normal range (ULN) and no dose modification from the original regimen were significantly associated with FN, and that TB > ULN, no dose modification from the original regimen, low platelet count (<15×104/μl), and recurrent disease after pancreatectomy were independent risk factors for G4 neutropenia.

CONCLUSION

No dose modification from the original regimen and TB > ULN were risk factors for FN and G4 neutropenia.

Comprehensive review of undifferentiated carcinoma of the pancreas: from epidemiology to treatment

Undifferentiated carcinoma (UC) of the pancreas is a rare subtype of pancreatic cancer displaying no definitive direction of differentiation. UC has been reported as a highly aggressive malignant neoplasm, with a median overall survival of <1 year, except for several surgical series. On the other hand, UC tissue sometimes contains non-neoplastic osteoclast-like giant cells (OGCs), and such cases have been reported to have relatively longer survival. Thus, the World Health Organization (WHO) classification histologically distinguishes UC with OGCs (UCOGCs) from UC, and UCs were subclassified into three subtypes: anaplastic UC, sarcomatoid UC and carcinosarcoma. However, still less is known about UC due to its rarity, and such situations lead to further difficulties in treatment for UC. To date, only surgical resection can offer curative treatment for patients with UC, and no clear evidence for chemotherapy exists for them. However, a retrospective cohort study and case reports showed that relatively promising results paclitaxel-containing regimens for treatment of patients with unresectable UC. Furthermore, high programmed cell death protein 1 expression has been reported in sarcomatoid UCs and UCOGCs, and promising responses to anti-programmed death-ligand 1 therapy have been described in case reports of UCOGCs. Recent advances in chemotherapeutic agents and molecular technologies are opening up the possibilities for expanded treatments.

Clinical Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy with Gemcitabine plus S-1 for Resectable Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Compared with Upfront Surgery

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with gemcitabine plus S-1 (NAC-GS) in the prognosis of patients with resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has been reported. NAC-GS is now assumed to be a standard regimen for resectable PDAC in Japan. However, the reason for this improvement in prognosis remains unclear.

METHODS

In 2019, we introduced NAC-GS for resectable PDAC. From 2015 to 2021, 340 patients were diagnosed with resectable PDAC (anatomical and biological [carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19-9 < 500 U/mL]) and were divided according to the treatment period (upfront surgery [UPS] group, 2015-2019, n = 241; NAC-GS group, 2019-2021, n = 80). We used "intention-to-treat" analysis to compare the clinical outcomes of NAC-GS to those of UPS.

RESULTS

Of the 80 patients with NAC-GS, 75 (93.8%) completed two cycles of NAC-GS, and the resection rate of the NAC-GS group was comparable to that of the UPS group (92.5 vs. 91.3%, P = 0.73). The R0 resection rate was significantly higher in the NAC-GS group than in the UPS group (91.3 vs. 82.6%, P = 0.04), even though the surgical burden was smaller. Progression-free survival tended to be better (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.70, P = 0.06), and overall survival was significantly better in the NAC-GS group than in the UPS group (HR 0.55, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

NAC-GS provided improvements in microscopic invasion leading to a high R0 rate and smooth administration and completion of adjuvant therapy, which might lead to an improved prognosis in patients with resectable PDAC.

Safety and Effectiveness of Chemotherapy in Elderly Biliary Tract Cancer Patients

The safety and effectiveness of chemotherapy in elderly patients with biliary tract cancer (BTC) remain unclear. Therefore, we retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent chemotherapy for locally advanced, metastatic, or recurrent BTC at our institution from January 2016 to December 2021. Of the 283 included patients, 91 (32.5%) were aged 75 years or older when initiating chemotherapy. Elderly patients were more likely than non-elderly patients to receive monotherapy with gemcitabine or S-1 (58.7% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.001) and were less likely to experience grade 3-4 toxicities (55.4% vs. 70.2%, p = 0.015). The rates of termination due to intolerance (6.5% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.800) and transition to second-line chemotherapy (39.1% vs. 40.3%, p = 0.849) were similar between groups. In the overall cohort, age was not an independent predictor of overall survival (OS). Within the elderly cohort, there were no differences in severe adverse events between patients receiving monotherapy and combination therapy (50.0% vs. 63.2%, p = 0.211). Median OS was longer in the combination therapy group (10.4 vs. 14.1 months; p = 0.010); however, choice of monotherapy was not an independent predictor of overall survival. Monotherapy appears to be a viable alternative in selected elderly BTC patients.

Pembrolizumab in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin compared with gemcitabine and cisplatin alone for patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (KEYNOTE-966): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial

BACKGROUND

Biliary tract cancers, which arise from the intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts and the gallbladder, generally have a poor prognosis and are rising in incidence worldwide. The standard-of-care treatment for advanced biliary tract cancer is chemotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin. Because most biliary tract cancers have an immune-suppressed microenvironment, immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy is associated with a low objective response rate. We aimed to assess whether adding the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab to gemcitabine and cisplatin would improve outcomes compared with gemcitabine and cisplatin alone in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer.

METHODS

KEYNOTE-966 was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial done at 175 medical centres globally. Eligible participants were aged 18 years or older; had previously untreated, unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract cancer; had disease measurable per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours version 1.1; and had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 or 1. Eligible participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to pembrolizumab 200 mg or placebo, both administered intravenously every 3 weeks (maximum 35 cycles), in combination with gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks; no maximum duration) and cisplatin (25 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks; maximum 8 cycles). Randomisation was done using a central interactive voice-response system and stratified by geographical region, disease stage, and site of origin in block sizes of four. The primary endpoint of overall survival was evaluated in the intention-to-treat population. The secondary endpoint of safety was evaluated in the as-treated population. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04003636.

FINDINGS

Between Oct 4, 2019, and June 8, 2021, 1564 patients were screened for eligibility, 1069 of whom were randomly assigned to pembrolizumab plus gemcitabine and cisplatin (pembrolizumab group; n=533) or placebo plus gemcitabine and cisplatin (placebo group; n=536). Median study follow-up at final analysis was 25·6 months (IQR 21·7-30·4). Median overall survival was 12·7 months (95% CI 11·5-13·6) in the pembrolizumab group versus 10·9 months (9·9-11·6) in the placebo group (hazard ratio 0·83 [95% CI 0·72-0·95]; one-sided p=0·0034 [significance threshold, p=0·0200]). In the as-treated population, the maximum adverse event grade was 3 to 4 in 420 (79%) of 529 participants in the pembrolizumab group and 400 (75%) of 534 in the placebo group; 369 (70%) participants in the pembrolizumab group and 367 (69%) in the placebo group had treatment-related adverse events with a maximum grade of 3 to 4. 31 (6%) participants in the pembrolizumab group and 49 (9%) in the placebo group died due to adverse events, including eight (2%) in the pembrolizumab group and three (1%) in the placebo group who died due to treatment-related adverse events.

INTERPRETATION

Based on a statistically significant, clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival compared with gemcitabine and cisplatin without any new safety signals, pembrolizumab plus gemcitabine and cisplatin could be a new treatment option for patients with previously untreated metastatic or unresectable biliary tract cancer.

FUNDING

Merck Sharp & Dohme, a subsidiary of Merck & Co, Rahway, NJ, USA.

Serum DUPAN-2 could be an Alternative Biological Marker for CA19-9 Nonsecretors with Pancreatic Cancer

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the use of serum DUPAN-2 in predicting the PC progression in CA19-9 nonsecretors.

BACKGROUND

Although we previously reported that serum CA19-9 >500U/ mL is a poor prognostic factor and an indication for enhanced neoadjuvant treatment, there is not a biomarker surrogate that equivalently predicts prognosis for CA19-9 nonsecretors.

METHODS

We evaluated consecutive PC patients who underwent pancreatectomy from 2005 to 2019. All patients were categorized as either nonsecretor or secretor (CA19-9 ≤ or >2.0U/mL).

RESULTS

Of the 984 resected PC patients, 94 (9.6%) were nonsecretors and 890 (90.4%) were secretors. The baseline characteristics were not statistically different between the 2 groups except for the level of DUPAN-2 (720 vs. 100U/mL, P < 0.001). Survival curves after resection were similar between the 2 groups (29.4 months vs. 31.3 months, P = 0.900). Survival curves of patients with DUPAN-2 >2000U/mL in the nonsecretors and patients with CA19-9 >500U/mL in the secretors were nearly equivalent as well (hazard ratio 2.08 vs. 1.89). In the multivariate analysis, DUPAN-2 >2000U/mL (hazard ratio 2.53, P = 0.010) was identified as independent prognostic factor after resection.

CONCLUSION

DUPAN-2 >2000U/mL in CA19-9 nonsecretors can be an unfavorable factor that corresponds to CA19-9 >500U/mL in CA19-9 secretors which is an indicator for enhanced neoadjuvant treatment. The current results shed light on the subset of nonsecretors with poor prognosis that were traditionally categorized in a group with a more favorable prognosis group.

Effect of systemic inflammatory response on induction chemotherapy followed by chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic cancer: an exploratory subgroup analysis on systemic inflammatory response in JCOG1106

OBJECTIVE

JCOG1106, a randomized phase II trial conducted to compare chemoradiotherapy (S-1 concurrent radiotherapy) with (Arm B) or without (Arm A) induction chemotherapy using gemcitabine in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer, showed a more favorable long-term survival in Arm A. This study was aimed at exploring whether some subgroups classified by the systemic inflammatory response might derive greater benefit from either treatment.

METHODS

All subjects eligible for JCOG1106 were included in this analysis (n = 51/49 in Arm A/B). This exploratory subgroup analysis was performed by Cox regression analysis to investigate the impact of the systemic inflammatory response, as assessed based on the serum C-reactive protein, serum albumin (albumin), Glasgow Prognostic Score and derived neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, at the baseline on overall survival. P values <0.1 for the interaction were regarded as denoting significant association.

RESULTS

Glasgow prognostic score showed significant treatment interactions for overall survival. Hazard ratios of Arm B to Arm A were 1.35 (95% confidence interval, 0.82-2.23) in the Glasgow Prognostic Score 0 (C-reactive protein ≤10 mg/L and albumin ≥35 g/L) (n = 44/34 in Arm A/B) and 0.59 (95% confidence interval, 0.24-1.50) in the Glasgow Prognostic Score 1/2 (C-reactive protein >10 mg/L and/or albumin <35 g/L) (n = 7/15) (P-interaction = 0.06). C-reactive protein alone and albumin alone also showed significant treatment interactions for overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival benefits of induction chemotherapy in chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic cancer were observed in patients with elevated Glasgow Prognostic Score, high C-reactive protein and low albumin. These results suggest that systemic inflammatory response might be considered to apply induction chemotherapy preceding chemoradiotherapy.

Outcomes of Intraductal Placement of Covered Metal Stents for Unresectable Distal Malignant Biliary Obstruction

Intraductal self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement may prolong stent patency by reducing duodenobiliary reflux. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this biliary drainage method in patients with unresectable distal malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). Consecutive patients with unresectable MBO who underwent initial covered SEMS placement between 2015 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. We compared the causes of recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO), time to RBO (TRBO), adverse events (AEs), and reintervention rates between two biliary drainage methods (SEMSs placed above and across the papilla). A total of 86 patients were included (above: 38 and across: 48). Overall RBO rates (24% vs. 44%, p = 0.069) and median TRBO (11.6 months vs. 9.8 months, p = 0.189) were not significantly different between the two groups. The frequency of overall AEs was similar between the two groups in the entire cohort, but was significantly lower in patients with non-pancreatic cancer (6% vs. 44%, p = 0.035). Reintervention was successfully performed in the majority of patients in both groups. Intraductal SEMS placement was not associated with a prolonged TRBO in this study. Larger studies are warranted to further evaluate the benefit of intraductal SEMS placement.

A randomised phase II study of modified FOLFIRINOX versus gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (JCOG1407)

AIM

We compared the efficacy of modified 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin (mFOLFIRINOX) with that of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GnP) for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC).

METHODS

Patients with untreated LAPC were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive mFOLFIRINOX or GnP. One-year overall survival (OS) was the primary endpoint. The major secondary end-points included progression-free survival (PFS), response rate (RR), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) response, and adverse events. The sample size was 124 patients to select a more effective regimen with a minimum probability of 0.85 and to examine the null hypothesis of the 1-year OS <53%.

RESULTS

Of the 126 patients enrolled from 29 institutions, 125 were deemed eligible. The 1-year OS was 77.4% (95% CI, 64.9-86.0) and 82.5% (95% CI, 70.7-89.9) in the mFOLFIRINOX and GnP arms, respectively. The median PFS was 11.2 (95% CI, 9.9-15.9) and 9.4 months (95% CI, 7.4-12.8) in the mFOLFIRINOX and GnP arms, respectively. The RR and CA19-9 response rate were 30.9% (95% CI, 19.1-44.8) and 57.1% (95% CI, 41.0-72.3) and 42.1% (95% CI 29.1-55.9) and 85.0% (95% CI, 70.2-94.3) in the mFOLFIRINOX and GnP arms, respectively. Grade 3-4 diarrhoea and anorexia were predominant in the mFOLFIRINOX arm.

CONCLUSION

GnP was considered the candidate for a subsequent phase III trial because of its better RR, CA19-9 response, and mild gastrointestinal toxicities. Both regimens displayed higher efficacy in the 1-year survival than in the historical data of gemcitabine monotherapy.

Removal of Duckbill-type laser-cut anti-reflux metal stents: Clinical evaluation and in vitro study

Objectives

Duckbill-type metal stent (DMS) was the first laser-cut biliary metal stent with an anti-reflux valve. Removal of DMS is believed to be difficult and relevant reports are scarce. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of DMS removal.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent DMS removal between June 2019 and March 2022 to evaluate success rates and factors affecting outcomes. In addition, six different methods of DMS removal were reproduced in vitro, varying removal devices, angle of applied force, and grasped location. Extraction resistance, the distance of forceps stroke, and stent length after removal were compared.

Results

Forty patients were enrolled, and DMS removal was successful in 31 cases (78%). No adverse events were observed. Tumor ingrowth was evident in 78% (7/9) of failed cases. Patients receiving biliary metal stents for the first time (naïve cases), long indwelling time, longer stent, and stent tearing during removal were associated with unsuccessful stent removal. In the in vitro study, a larger force was required to remove the stent at an extraction angle of 120° than at 0°. Among cases in which force was applied at 120°, the load tended to be lower when rat-tooth forceps were applied horizontally across the stent.

Conclusions

Stent removal was possible in a majority of cases. Deployment of additional stents inside DMS may be preferable to forceful removal in the presence of factors associated with difficult stent removals, such as tumor ingrowth, naïve cases, longer stents, long indwelling time, and stent tearing during removal.

Risk factors for early relapse in patients with biliary tract cancers who underwent curative resection: An exploratory subgroup analysis of JCOG1202

541

Background: Relapse after highly invasive surgery for biliary tract cancers (BTCs), especially in the early postoperative period, causes medical, psychological, social, and economic disadvantages to the patients. However, approximately 30% of patients with curatively resected BTCs experience relapse within the first 12 months. JCOG1202 (UMIN000011688) is a randomized phase III trial conducted in patients with resected BTCs showing the benefit of adjuvant S-1 for overall survival. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for early relapse of resected BTCs in the JCOG1202 cohort. Methods: Of the 440 patients enrolled in the JCOG1202, 217 patients who received surgery alone (arm A) and 207 patients who received adjuvant S-1 (arm B) were eligible and included in this analysis. Early relapse was defined as relapse or death within 12 months after enrollment. Predictive factors for early relapse were assessed using logistic regression analyses. Results: Postoperative early relapse was observed in 59 (27.2%) and 38 (18.4%) of patients in arm A and arm B, respectively. In multivariable logistic regression analysis for the 424 eligible patients, postoperative CA19-9 levels >37 u/ml (odds ratio (OR): 2.790, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.262-6.170), poorly differentiation (vs. well-differentiated/papillary) (OR: 4.746, 95% CI:1.927-11.688), moderate differentiation (vs. well-differentiated/papillary) (OR: 1.955, 95% CI:1.071-3.567), lymph node metastases > 4 (vs. 0) (OR: 3.991, 95% CI: 1.674-9.514), lymph node metastases 1-3 (vs. 0) (OR: 2.661, 95% CI: 1.471-4.814), and presence of residual tumor (OR: 2.171, 95% CI: 1.070-4.408) were independent risk factors for early relapse. Importantly, adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy significantly reduced early relapse (OR: 0.491, 95% CI: 0.290-0.833). Similar results were observed in arm B. Conclusions: Postoperative CA19-9 level, tumor differentiation, lymph node metastases, and the residual tumor significantly impact early relapse in patients with curatively resected BTCs. Although adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy was effective in reducing early relapse, similar factors tended to be the risk factors in patients receiving adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy. Patients at high risk of early relapse may need more intensive perioperative therapy. Clinical trial information: UMIN000011688 .

A multicenter, single-arm, phase II study of nivolumab in patients with biliary tract cancer with a PD-L1 combined positive score ≥ 1

533

Background: Patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) have a poor prognosis, and high unmet medical needs still exist for the treatment of this disease. Nivolumab has shown its effectiveness against multiple cancer types, especially those with PD-L1 expression. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of nivolumab in BTC patients with a combined positive score (CPS) ≥ 1 who were refractory or intolerant to the standard of care (SOC): gemcitabine, cisplatin and tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil (S-1). Methods: This was a single-arm, multicenter, open-label, prospective phase II study. Key eligibility criteria were as follows: having unresectable or recurrent BTC (intrahepatic bile duct cancer, extrahepatic bile duct cancer, gallbladder cancer, or ampullary cancer); being refractory or intolerant to SOC; having adequate hepatic, renal and hematological function; and having a CPS ≥ 1 in central assessment. Patients received nivolumab (480 mg, every 4 weeks) until disease progression, clinical deterioration, or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR) assessed by the central review according to RECIST 1.1. The secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety. Results: A total of 84 patients were enrolled between Mar 11, 2020 and Mar 15, 2021, of them 12 received one regimen and 72 received two or more regimens. The median follow-up period was 6.90 months. ORR per central assessment was 10.7% (CR: 3.6%, PR: 7.1%), and ORR per investigator assessment was 15.5% (CR: 2.4%, PR: 13.1%). The median PFS per central and investigator assessment was 1.02 (95% CI 0.95–1.77) months and 2.48 (95% CI 1.87–2.83) months, respectively. The median OS was 6.90 (95% CI 5.26–9.20) months. The median duration of response per central and investigator assessment was not reached (range 2.8–13.0+) and 10.15 (range 2.0–12.8+) months, respectively. The 1-year survival rate was 25.3% (95% CI 15.4–36.4). The most frequent treatment-related adverse events were pyrexia (19.0%), pruritus (16.7%), and decreased appetite (13.1%). Conclusions: Nivolumab may have some activity with a durable response and a manageable safety profile in heavily treated BTC patients with CPS ≥ 1. Clinical trial information: JapicCTI-205097 .

Depth of response in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated with modified FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel combination therapy: An exploratory subgroup analysis of JCOG1407

746

Background: Depth of response (DpR; max% reduction from baseline in sum of target lesion diameters), has been reported to be associated with improved prognosis in several malignancies. However, there have been few reports regarding DpR in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). Thus, we investigated the association between DpR and overall survival (OS), and whether there were any differences in treatment efficacy on DpR between modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX) versus gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GnP) as 1st-line chemotherapy for LAPC, using the results from JCOG1407 which was a randomized phase II trial comparing these regimens. Methods: Of the 126 patients enrolled in JCOG1407, patients were eligible except for the followings; patients who never had an imaging study or had only non-target lesions. The association between DpR and OS was investigated by dividing DpR into 3 groups at the tertile point (T1, T2 and T3 from largest to smallest), and whether DpR contributes to OS was examined by multivariable analysis. The differences in treatment efficacy between both regimens were investigated byevaluating DpR, time to DpR, and duration of response (DoR). Results: A total of 109 patients were eligible for this study (n = 53/56 in mFFX/GnP). The number of patients in T1, T2, and T3 were 37, 36, and 36, respectively. The median OS of T1, T2, and T3 were 29.3 (95% CI, 21.0-NE), 20.6 (95% CI, 15.8-24.5), and 19.0 months (95% CI, 12.7-22.4), respectively ( P= 0.0237). Multivariable analysis identified DpR as an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR 1.883, 95% CI 1.030-3.442, P= 0.040 for T2 vs. T1, and HR 2.523, 95% CI 1.342-4.744, P= 0.004 for T3 vs. T1). The median DpR in GnP was better than that in mFFX (28.9 vs. 22.7%; P= 0.041). The median DoR in mFFX tended to be longer compared to that in GnP (8.2 vs. 5.3 months; P= 0.132). No differences in mean time to DpR were observed between the two regimens. Conclusions: In LAPC patients receiving 1st-line chemotherapy, larger DpR contributed to OS. Although OS and PFS between mFFX and GnP were similar, the treatment efficacy on DpR and DoR might be different between the two regimens. Clinical trial information: UMIN000023143 .

Randomized multicenter phase III trial of neoadjuvant gemcitabine + cisplatin + S-1 (GCS) versus surgery first for resectable biliary tract cancer (JCOG1920: NABICAT)

TPS621

Background: Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is a highly lethal disease. The prognosis remains poor even after macroscopically curative resection due to the high recurrence rate. Therefore, developing effective adjuvant therapy is essential to improve treatment outcomes. In 2021, a phase III trial (JCOG1202: ASCOT) showed the superiority of adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy to surgery alone in the overall survival (OS) in BTC patients with curative resection (hazard ratio [HR] 0.694, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.514–0.935; p=0.008). Consequently, adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy has become the standard of care for resected BTC. In contrast, only a few studies have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of neoadjuvant therapy for BTC until now. Recently, a phase III trial (KHBO1401-MITSUBA) demonstrated the superiority of gemcitabine + cisplatin + S-1 (GCS) therapy to gemcitabine + cisplatin in patients with advanced unresectable BTC in terms of OS (HR 0.79, 90% CI: 0.628–0.996; p=0.046). The GCS arm showed a high response rate (41.5%), with promise in a neoadjuvant setting. This phase III trial aims to confirm the superiority of neoadjuvant GCS to surgery first in patients with resectable BTC. Methods: The main eligibility criteria are: (1) histologically diagnosed with adenocarcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma; (2) diagnosed as resectable BTC with clinical stage II–IVA for perihilar bile duct cancer, stage IB–III for distal bile duct cancer, stage IIIA–IVA for gallbladder cancer, stage IIA–III for ampullary cancer, or stage III–IVA/stage IVB (T4N1M0) for intrahepatic bile duct cancer by diagnostic imaging; (3) Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status 0 or 1; and (4) age ≥20 years. Enrolled patients are randomized 1:1 to neoadjuvant GCS + surgery + adjuvant S-1 or surgery + adjuvant S-1 regarding the center and primary site (perihilar/distal/gall bladder/ampulla of Vater/intrahepatic) by the minimization method. The GCS regimen comprises gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2) and cisplatin (25 mg/m2) on day 1 and S-1 (80-120 mg/day) on days 1–7, every 2 weeks for 3 courses. After surgery, S-1 (80-120 mg/day) for 4 weeks-on, 2 weeks-off, for a total of 4 cycles, is administered in both arms. The primary endpoint is OS, and secondary endpoints are progression-free survival (PFS), OS and PFS in patients who underwent R0/R1 resection, incidence of non-resection, %R0 resection, %R0/R1 resection, %lymph node metastasis, postoperative complications of Clavien–Dindo Grade IIIa or severer, serious adverse events, and objective response rate in the GCS arm. We calculated a sample size of 330 patients to obtain 70% power at a one-sided alpha error of 5%, a hazard ratio of 0.698 (3-year OS 67% vs 75.6%), an accrual period of 5 years, and a follow-up period of 3 years. The patient accrual was started in March 2021, and 126 patients have been enrolled as of September 2022. Clinical trial information: jRCTs031200388 .

Early tumor shrinkage as a predictor of survival in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated with modified FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel combination therapy: An exploratory analysis of JCOG1407

547

Background: Early tumor shrinkage (ETS) has been reported as a prognostic predictor of chemotherapy for colorectal cancer. However, few studies have examined the potential of ETS in chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer. Herein, we evaluated whether ETS could be a prognostic predictor in patients treated with modified FOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin) or GnP (gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel) for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), as an exploratory analysis of JCOG1407, a randomized phase II selection design trial comparing modified FOLFIRINOX and GnP for LAPC. Methods: Of 126 patients enrolled in JCOG1407, 112 with measurable lesions were included in this exploratory analysis. ETS was defined as a ≥ 20% reduction in tumor diameter compared with baseline at the initial imaging assessment 6–10 weeks after initiating chemotherapy. Patients were divided into two cohorts based on their ETS status as described above: the ETS cohort that achieved ETS and the non-ETS cohort that failed to achieve ETS. The impact of ETS on overall survival (OS) was compared using multivariable Cox regression analysis in (ⅰ) the modified FOLFIRINOX group, (ⅱ) the GnP group, and (ⅲ) the overall population. Results: Herein, we included 55 patients in the modified FOLFIRINOX group and 57 in the GnP group. Notably, 14 (25.5%) and 24 (42.1%) patients achieved ETS in the modified FOLFIRINOX and GnP groups, respectively. In the modified FOLFIRINOX group, the median OS in the ETS and non-ETS cohorts was 2.5 and 1.7 years, respectively; the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of the ETS to the non-ETS cohort for OS was 0.37 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.15-0.93). In the GnP group, the median OS in the ETS and non-ETS cohorts was 2.0 and 1.7 years, respectively; the adjusted HR of the ETS to the non-ETS cohort for OS was 0.51 (95% CI, 0.26-1.01). In the overall population, the median OS in the ETS and non-ETS cohorts was 2.3 and 1.7 years, respectively; the adjusted HR of the ETS to the non-ETS cohort for OS was 0.45 (95% CI, 0.27-0.75). Conclusions: We noted a trend toward increased survival in patients who achieved ETS, suggesting that ETS may be a prognostic predictor in patients with LAPC treated with modified FOLFIRINOX or GnP.

Electronic patient-reported outcome measured in patients with pancreatic cancer receiving second-line chemotherapy: A multicenter prospective observational study

682

Background: Pancreatic cancer and especially late-line chemotherapy often negatively impact patient quality of life (QoL). However, QoL outside of the date of hospital visits has not been adequately evaluated. This study assessed QoL at home in patients receiving chemotherapy using electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO). Methods: This multicenter prospective observational study was conducted in 29 Japanese centers. Pathologically confirmed unresectable pancreatic cancer patients who were going to receive a second cycle of second-line chemotherapy, liposomal irinotecan plus fluorouracil/leucovorin (nal-IRI+FF), gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GEM+nab-PTX), or gemcitabine alone (GEM) at the outpatient department were included. QoL was assessed by electronic instruments on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 11 of each administration during two consecutive cycles (second and third cycles). The primary outcome was the index value of EuroQol 5-dimensions 5-levels (EQ-5D-5L). Secondary outcomes were the status of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC)-QLQ-C30 and Patient-Reported Outcome Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO-CTCAE). Results: A total of 90 patients, 56 receiving nal-IRI+FF, 27 receiving GEM+nab-PTX, and 7 receiving GEM, were eligible for this study. The patients who responded to at least the first questionnaire and received nal-IRI+FF (n = 46) or GEM+nab-PTX (n = 16) were selected for analysis. In the nal-IRI+FF group, the mean index value of EQ-5D-5L on day 1 of the second cycle was 0.803±0.142, declined up to day 6 (0.678±0.247), and had recovered by day 1 of the third cycle (0.776±0.197). Similar trends were observed in the third cycle; the nadir of the mean index value was 0.723±0.182 on day eight and had recovered by day 15 (0.782±0.159). On the other hand, in the GEM+nab-PTX group, the nadir of the mean index value in the second cycle was on day 6 of the third administration (0.751±0.184) and had not fully recovered by day 1 of the third cycle (0.789±0.182). For global health status according to EORTC-QLQ-C30, a similar trend to EQ-5D-5L was observed in both groups. According to the results of the PRO-CTCAE, pain (40.4%), diarrhea (36.5%), abdominal pain (30.8%), fatigue (28.8%), and anorexia (28.8%) were frequent severe or very severe adverse events in the nal-IRI+FF group. In comparison, diarrhea (29.2%) and anorexia (25.0%) were frequent severe or very severe adverse events in the GEM+nab-PTX group. Conclusions: QoL assessed by ePRO outside the date of hospital visits revealed the pattern or details of QoL transition. Further study is needed so that these trends can be taken into account in the management of chemotherapy. Clinical trial information: UMIN000044245 .

Comparison of clinical features by primary sites in patients with biliary tract cancer who received gemcitabine-based chemotherapy: An exploratory analysis of JCOG1113

548

Background: Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) include gallbladder cancer (GBC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC), extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHCC), and ampulla of Vater cancer (AV). Although it was previously reported that there were differences in clinical features individually, the reported data were limited to data from some subgroup analyses of recent randomized controlled trials. JCOG1113 (UMIN000010667) showed the non-inferiority of gemcitabine plus S-1 to gemcitabine plus cisplatin in terms of overall survival (OS) in patients (pts) with advanced BTCs. We aimed to compare clinical features among the primary sites of BTCs using JCOG1113 data. Methods: Among the 354 pts enrolled in JCOG1113, 352 pts were included in this analysis except for 2 pts without BTCs. We compared the patient characteristics and treatment outcomes, such as OS, progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR), among the four primary sites. Results: Of the 352 pts, 137 pts (38.9%), 94 pts (26.7%), 108 pts (30.7%) and 13 pts (3.7%) had GBC, IHCC, EHCC, and AV, respectively. GBC was more common in females (58.4%) than males, in contrast to the other primary sites. The percentage of pts with metastatic disease for GBC was the highest (78.1%) and involved multiple metastatic organs (41.6%), in contrast with the other primary sites. The median OS for GBC, IHCC, EHCC and AV were 12.6 months (reference), 15.7 months (hazard ratio [HR]; 0.749, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.559-1.005), 16.3 months (0.704, 0.532-0.934) and 11.5 months (1.148, 0.633-2.080), respectively. The median PFS for GBC, IHCC, EHCC and AV were 5.7 months (reference), 6.2 months (0.843, 0.644-1.104), 8.7 months (0.636, 0.489-0.826) and 4.1 months (1.506, 0.851-2.665), respectively. The ORRs for GBC, IHCC, EHCC and AV were 34.4%, 28.9%, 34.4%, and 0.0%, respectively. Conclusions: Except for AV which included a few patients in this trial, GBC showed a poorer prognosis compared with the other primary sites. Furthermore, it was more likely to include metastatic disease and multiple metastases, and this is likely one of the causes of the poorer prognosis. [Table: see text]

Outcomes of pancreatic cancer with liver oligometastasis

BACKGROUND

Liver oligometastatic pancreatic cancer (PC) may have favorable outcomes. This study aims to evaluate outcomes and factors associated with overall survival (OS) of these patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated consecutive PC patients with liver metastasis treated at our institution between 2013 and 2020. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared and analyzed according to the extent of liver metastasis. Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify prognostic factors for OS.

RESULTS

A total of 417 patients were included (multi-organ metastasis/polymetastasis/oligometastasis 174/158/85). Oligometastasis showed a longer OS compared to other types of metastases (7.7 vs 8.2 vs 13.1 months). Age <70 years, performance status of 0, modified Glasgow prognostic score of 0, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 <1000 U/mL were identified as significant prognostic factors for OS. A prognostic index consisting of these four factors successfully stratified the prognosis of these patients (prognostic index; high vs low, 19.9 vs 8.3 months). Highly selected patients who underwent surgical resection showed a median OS of 54.6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Oligometastasis presented a relatively favorable outcome. Our new prognostic index was useful in stratifying the prognosis of these patients. Multimodal treatment including surgery may have additional survival benefits for highly selected patients.

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) of the cystic duct

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors, also known as PEComas, are rare mesenchymal tumors composed mainly of epithelioid cells found in perivascular tissue. PEComas occur most frequently in the kidney, uterus, the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and retroperitoneum; those originating in the biliary tree are extremely rare. We report a case of benign PEComa of the cystic duct with positive TFE3 staining on immunohistochemistry.A 66-year-old woman was referred for a 20 mm mass adjacent to the common bile duct discovered incidentally on abdominal ultrasound. Laboratory data including tumor markers were unremarkable. The tumor appeared to arise from the cystic duct, showed early enhancement, and compressed the common bile duct on imaging studies. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration revealed round- and spindle-shaped atypical cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and brown deposits suggestive of melanin granules. Histological examination of the resected specimen revealed a tumor consisting of epithelioid cells forming an alveolar structure, with melanin pigmentation. Immunohistochemistry was positive for HMB-45 and TFE3, consistent with benign pigmented PEComa of the cystic duct. Melanotic, myogenic, and TFE3 staining are helpful when diagnosing PEComas arising in unusual locations.

The efficacy and safety of a duckbill-type anti-reflux metal stent as the initial metal stent for distal malignant biliary obstruction in unresectable pancreatic cancer

Background

The usefulness of duckbill-type anti-reflux metal stent (DMS) in self-expandable metal stent-naïve pancreatic cancer (PC) patients has not been well-studied. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DMS in such patients.

Methods

We analyzed consecutive patients with unresectable PC who received a covered metal stent (CMS) as the initial self-expandable metal stent at our institution. Technical success, functional success, causes of recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO), time to RBO (TRBO), adverse events (AEs), and reintervention rates were compared between DMS and conventional CMS (c-CMS).

Results

A total of 69 patients were included (DMS: 28, c-CMS: 41). Technical success, functional success, and AEs were similar between groups. Tumor ingrowth was more common in the DMS group (18% vs. 0%, p = 0.009), while non-occlusion cholangitis tended to be more common in the c-CMS group (0% vs. 15%, p = 0.074). Median time to RBO was similar between groups (276 vs. 273 days, p = 0.915). The anti-reflux valve of DMS was found torn in 56% of patients. Endoscopic reintervention was successful in all cases, despite failed stent removal in 88% of patients in the DMS group.

Conclusions

DMS was not associated with longer time to RBO compared to c-CMS in self-expandable metal stent-naïve patients.

Outcomes after partially covered self-expandable metal stent placement for recurrent duodenal obstruction

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of partially covered self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) as an additional stent after recurrent duodenal obstruction (RDO) have not been elucidated. In this study, we compared outcomes of partially covered and uncovered SEMS placement after RDO in patients with malignant duodenal obstruction and explored factors affecting re-recurrent obstruction and overall survival in this population.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of patients undergoing SEMS placement for RDO at a cancer institute in Japan from July 2014 to June 2021. Clinical variables and outcomes of patients undergoing partially covered and uncovered SEMS placement were compared.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients underwent SEMS placement after RDO, for which the COMVI stent was used in 38 cases and uncovered stents were used in 23 cases. Stent ingrowth was the most common cause of RDO (51.4%). Stent migration only occurred after partially covered stent placement (20% vs. 0%, p = 0.018). Choice of SEMS had no impact on time to re-RDO (median 2.8 vs. 4.1 months, p = 0.776) or overall survival (median 2.6 vs. 2.4 months, p = 0.703). Median overall survival was longer in patients receiving chemotherapy after second stenting (4.6 vs. 1.8 months, p < 0.001) and shorter in those with early RDO, regardless of the SEMS used. Use of the partially covered stent had no impact on survival or time to RDO.

CONCLUSIONS

While outcomes after partially covered SEMS placement for RDO were not significantly different from uncovered SEMS, migration remains a concern when they are used as a second stent. Chemotherapy after second stenting was associated with longer overall survival but not with longer time to re-RDO.

Analysis of prognostic factors for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy: the importance of CA19-9 decrease in patients with elevated pre-chemotherapy CA19-9 levels

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is widely used to treat borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the serum carbohydrate antigen (CA)19-9 response, in association with survival, after four cycles of NAC-gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel.

METHODS

From 2015 to 2018, patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer were treated with NAC. Patients were stratified into two groups after excluding CA19-9 non-secretor: Group L (CA19-9 ≥2 and ≤500 U/mL) and Group H (CA19-9 >500 U/mL). The CA19-9 decrease during NAC was evaluated as a response of NAC and was assessed in association with survival concomitant with other prognosis factors.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven patients were evaluated (Group L: n = 43, Group H: n = 44). In intention-to-treat-based analysis, Group L exhibited significantly better progression-free survival (PFS) than Group H (median PFS: 24 vs 14months). In resection cohort, no correlation was detected between the CA19-9 decrease and survival in Group L. In Group H, the CA19-9 decrease ≤80% was associated with unfavorable survival in multivariate analysis [Hazard ratio: 4.738 (P = 0.007)].

CONCLUSION

In patients with pre-treatment CA19-9 >500 U/mL, the CA19-9 decrease ≤80% was strongly associated with poor survival and new strategy should be reconsidered for these patients.

Long-term outcomes of endoscopic double stenting using an anti-reflux metal stent for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate long-term outcomes of endoscopic double stenting using anti-reflux metal stents (ARMS) for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who received endoscopic double stenting with self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction at our institution between July 2014 and March 2021 were evaluated. Patients were divided into the ARMS group, endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS-HGS) group, and covered metal stent-transpapillary (CMS-transpapillary) group. A Duckbill-type metal stent was used in all ARMS cases.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients were enrolled: ARMS group (n = 16), EUS-HGS group (n = 13), and CMS-transpapillary group (n = 9). Overall survival among three groups were not significantly different. Recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) rates of the ARMS, EUS-HGS, and CMS-transpapillary groups were 12.5%, 61.5%, and 88.9% (P < .01) and median time to recurrent biliary obstructions (TRBOs) were not reached, 125 days, and 7 days (P < .01). Median TRBOs of ARMS-choledochoduodenostomy and ARMS-transpapillary were not statistically different. Major causes of RBO were stent occlusion and symptomatic stent migration in the ARMS group, hyperplasia in the EUS-HGS group, and non-occlusion cholangitis in the CMS-transpapillary group.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic double stenting with ARMS might be an option for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Management and End-of-life Care of Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer

Objective The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has altered the delivery of medical care. The present study evaluated the impact of COVID-19 on the outcomes of unresectable pancreatic cancer (PC) patients who received end-of-life care. Methods We retrospectively compared the management of PC patients during the COVID-19 pandemic (from April 2020 to March 2021) to the preceding year, which was unaffected by the pandemic (from April 2019 to March 2020), based on a prospectively maintained institutional database. Results A total of 178 patients were included in the COVID-19-exposed group and 201 patients were included in the COVID-19-unexposed group. The median overall survival was similar between the groups (exposed vs. unexposed: 12.6 vs. 11.9 months, p=0.174). Treatment regimens and relative dose intensities and the progression-free survival of GnP (gemcitabine in combination with nab-paclitaxel) and mFOLFIRINOX as first- and second-line chemotherapy did not differ significantly between the two groups. Only 9.0% of patients died at home in the COVID-19-unexposed group, compared to 32.0% in the COVID-19-exposed group (p<0.001). A multivariate analysis revealed that death during the COVID-19 exposed period was independently associated with home death (odds ratio: 4.536, 95% confidence interval: 2.527-8.140, p<0.001). Conclusions While the COVID-19 pandemic did not seem to influence chemotherapeutic treatment for PC patients at our institution, it had a large impact on end-of-life care. These findings may promote discussion about end-of-life care in Japan.

Treatment outcomes of nanoliposomal irinotecan as second-line chemotherapy after gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel in metastatic and recurrent pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

To compare the treatment outcomes of nanoliposomal-irinotecan (nal-IRI) plus fluorouracil and leucovorin (5-FU/LV) and modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX) as second-line treatment after gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel (GnP) for metastatic and recurrent pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with metastatic or recurrent pancreatic cancer treated with nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV or mFFX after first-line GnP treatment between March 2014 and October 2021 in our hospital. Patient characteristics, treatment outcomes and adverse events were extracted for comparison.

RESULTS

Two hundred sixteen patients were included (nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV/mFFX: 50/166). Patients in the nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV group were older, had poorer ECOG PS, and a higher rate of peritoneal metastasis than those in the mFFX group. Median overall survival was 9.5 and 9.8 months (P = 0.97), respectively, and the median progression-free survival was 4.5 vs 4.8 months (P = 0.61), respectively. Anorexia, fatigue and peripheral neuropathy were more common in the mFFX group, but there was no difference in grade 3/4 adverse events between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in efficacy between nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV and mFFX after GnP. Nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV appears to be a viable alternative to mFFX as second-line treatment after GnP.

Impact of the Extent of Weight Loss before Administration on the Efficacy of Anamorelin in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Patients with Cachexia

Objective Anamorelin, a novel selective ghrelin receptor agonist, was approved in Japan for the treatment of cachexia in pancreatic cancer (PC), albeit with limited evidence. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of anamorelin in PC and examined the impact of the extent of weight loss on the efficacy of anamorelin. Methods We retrospectively investigated consecutive PC patients with cachexia who received anamorelin at our institution between June 2021 and January 2022. Patients were divided into two groups: moderate-weight-loss group (5%-10%) and severe-weight-loss group (> 10%). The primary outcome was changes in body weight. The secondary outcomes were changes in appetite and laboratory measures as well as treatment-related severe adverse events. Results A total of 24 patients were included (moderate/severe weight loss: 8/16). The moderate-weight-loss group showed significantly more weight gain than the severe-weight-loss group. Improvements in appetite were consistently observed in each weight-loss group. Changes in laboratory markers were not significantly different between groups. Hyperglycemia (four patients) was the most common cause of severe adverse events, followed by abdominal distension, nausea, elevated liver function tests, and bulimia. Conclusions The efficacy of anamorelin was associated with the extent of weight loss. Although anamorelin improved appetite in each weight-loss group, it increased body weight only in the moderate-weight-loss group. Anamorelin was well-tolerated among advanced PC patients, although caution must be practiced when it is used in patients with concomitant diabetes mellitus.

Protocol of a randomized phase II/III study of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel combination therapy versus modified FOLFIRINOX versus S-IROX for metastatic or recurrent pancreatic cancer: JCOG1611 (GENERATE)

Gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel and combination chemotherapy with fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan and oxaliplatin are a standard treatment for metastatic or recurrent pancreatic cancer. Recent studies on metastatic pancreatic cancer have demonstrated promising results of modified fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan and oxaliplatin and S-1, irinotecan and oxaliplatin. A three-arm randomized phase II/III trial has been conducted since April 2019 to confirm the superiority of modified fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan and oxaliplatin and S-1, irinotecan and oxaliplatin over Gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel in patients with metastatic or recurrent pancreatic cancer. A total of 732 patients will be enrolled from 42 Japanese institutions within 5 years. The primary endpoint is the response rate in the S-1, irinotecan and oxaliplatin arm for phase II portion and overall survival for phase III portion. The secondary endpoints for phase III portion are progression-free survival, response rate, adverse events, serious adverse events and dose intensity. This trial is registered with the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials [https://jrct.niph.go.jp/], number jRCTs031190009.

Multiple Gastric Metastases after Distal Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Cancer

A 67-year-old woman underwent distal pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer. Recurrence in the form of lung metastasis was discovered eight months after surgery, and chemotherapy was initiated. Two years after the surgery, she was admitted for the evaluation of melena. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed multiple subepithelial lesions with ulceration from the gastric body to the fornix. The histopathology of biopsy specimens was consistent with ductal adenocarcinoma, which appeared similar to the resected pancreatic cancer. The patient was diagnosed with multiple gastric metastases of pancreatic cancer. We herein report a case of pancreatic cancer with multiple gastric metastases that occurred after surgery for pancreatic tail cancer.

Effectiveness of Etoposide and Cisplatin vs Irinotecan and Cisplatin Therapy for Patients With Advanced Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Digestive System: The TOPIC-NEC Phase 3 Randomized Clinical Trial

Question

For patients with advanced neuroendocrine carcinoma of the digestive system, which of the 2 community standard regimens is more effective: etoposide plus cisplatin (EP) or irinotecan plus cisplatin (IP)?

Findings

In this randomized clinical trial of 170 patients who were chemotherapy naive and had recurrent or unresectable neuroendocrine carcinoma of the digestive system, median overall survival was 12.5 months in the EP arm and 10.9 months in the IP arm.

Meaning

Both EP and IP therapy remain standard first-line chemotherapy options.

Importance

Etoposide plus cisplatin (EP) and irinotecan plus cisplatin (IP) are commonly used as community standard regimens for advanced neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC).

Objective

To identify whether EP or IP is a more effective regimen in terms of overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced NEC of the digestive system.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This open-label phase 3 randomized clinical trial enrolled chemotherapy-naive patients aged 20 to 75 years who had recurrent or unresectable NEC (according to the 2010 World Health Organization classification system) arising from the gastrointestinal tract, hepatobiliary system, or pancreas. Participants were enrolled across 50 institutions in Japan between August 8, 2014, and March 6, 2020.

Interventions

In the EP arm, etoposide (100 mg/m²/d on days 1, 2, and 3) and cisplatin (80 mg/m²/d on day 1) were administered every 3 weeks. In the IP arm, irinotecan (60 mg/m²/d on days 1, 8, and 15) and cisplatin (60 mg/m²/d on day 1) were administered every 4 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was OS. In total, data from 170 patients were analyzed to detect a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.67 (median OS of 8 and 12 months in inferior and superior arms, respectively) with a 2-sided α of 10% and power of 80%. The pathologic findings were centrally reviewed following treatment initiation.

Results

Among the 170 patients included (median [range] age, 64 [29-75] years; 117 [68.8%] male), median OS was 12.5 months in the EP arm and 10.9 months in the IP arm (HR, 1.04; 90% CI, 0.79-1.37; P = .80). The median progression-free survival was 5.6 (95% CI, 4.1-6.9) months in the EP arm and 5.1 (95% CI, 3.3-5.7) months in the IP arm (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.78-1.45). A subgroup analysis of OS demonstrated that EP produced more favorable OS in patients with poorly differentiated NEC of pancreatic origin (HR, 4.10; 95% CI, 1.26-13.31). The common grade 3 and 4 adverse events in the EP vs IP arms were neutropenia (75 of 82 [91.5%] patients vs 44 of 82 [53.7%] patients), leukocytopenia (50 of 82 [61.0%] patients vs 25 of 82 [30.5%] patients), and febrile neutropenia (FN) (22 of 82 [26.8%] patients vs 10 of 82 [12.2%] patients). While incidence of FN was initially high in the EP arm, primary prophylactic use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor effectively reduced the incidence of FN.

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this randomized clinical trial demonstrate that both EP and IP remain the standard first-line chemotherapy options. Although AEs were generally manageable, grade 3 and 4 AEs were more common in the EP arm.

Trial Registration

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials: jRCTs031180005; UMIN Clinical Trials Registry: UMIN000014795

Safety and efficacy of S-IROX (S-1, irinotecan and oxaliplatin combination therapy) in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer: A multicenter phase 1b dose-escalation and dose-expansion clinical trial

BACKGROUND

This phase 1b trial evaluated the toxicity and efficacy of S-1, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin combination therapy (S-IROX) as first-line chemotherapy in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC).

METHODS

Patients aged 20-75 years with APC and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 or 1 were eligible to receive escalating doses of S-1 (60 or 80 mg m²·day) on days 1-7, fixed doses of oxaliplatin (85 mg/m²) biweekly, and escalating doses of irinotecan (150, 165, or 180 mg/m²) once every 2 weeks. In the dose-escalation cohort, a 3 + 3 design was used to determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and explore the recommended dose (RD). A dose-expansion cohort was added to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of the combination. This trial was registered at UMIN-CTR (UMIN000012054).

RESULTS

Approximately 47 patients were enrolled, of whom 45 were eligible for the analysis. The MTD was not determined, but the RD was determined to be dose level 1 based on a review of data from each level. Among the 45 patients, the ORR was 51.1% [95% confidence interval (CI), 35.8-66.3%]. The median progression-free survival and median overall survival was 6.9 months (95% CI, 5.1-8.8 months) and 15.8 months (95% CI, 9.8-20.8 months), respectively. Common adverse events included neutropenia, elevated liver enzyme levels, diarrhoea, and nausea.

CONCLUSIONS

The S-IROX regimen showed promising efficacy with manageable toxicities in Japanese patients with APC. A randomised phase 2/3 trial comparing S-IROX, mFOLFIRINOX, and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel is currently ongoing (jRCTs031190009).

Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Gemcitabine plus Nab-Paclitaxel versus Gemcitabine Alone in Older Adults with Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer

Background

Gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GnP) has been a standard treatment for unresectable pancreatic cancer (uPC); however, the current treatment status and usefulness in older adults with uPC remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the patient background and compare the efficacy and safety of GnP versus other treatments in older adults with uPC.

Patients and Methods

In this prospective observational study, we enrolled 233 eligible patients aged ≥76 years with pathologically proven, clinically uPC, and no history of chemotherapy from 55 Japanese centers during September 2018-September 2019. The main endpoints were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety. Geriatric assessments were performed upon registration and after 3 months. To adjust for confounders, we conducted propensity score-matched analyses.

Results

GnP, gemcitabine alone (Gem), best supportive care, and other therapies were administered to 116, 72, 16, and 29 patients, respectively. In the propensity score-matched analysis, 42 patients each were selected from the GnP and Gem groups. The median OS was longer in the GnP group than in the Gem group (12.2 vs. 9.4 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.65; 95% CI, 0.37-1.13). The median PFS was significantly longer in the GnP group than in the Gem group (9.2 vs. 3.7 months; HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.23-0.64). The incidence of severe adverse events was higher with GnP than with Gem; however, the difference was not significant.

Conclusion

GnP is more efficacious than Gem in patients aged ≥76 years with uPC despite demonstrating a higher incidence of severe adverse events.