Blood Eosinophil Count Stability and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in a High Endemic Area of Parasitic Infection: A Prospective Study

Background

The blood eosinophil count (BEC) is an effective biomarker for predicting inhaled corticosteroid responsiveness in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

A 12-month prospective observational study was conducted in patients with COPD. BEC was measured at enrolment, and after 6 and 12 months. Patients were classified into three groups according to their baseline BEC: <100, 100 - 299, and ≥300 cells/µL. We aimed to describe the patterns of blood eosinophil stability in patients with stable COPD and compare the exacerbation rates and other clinical outcomes at 6 and 12 months.

Results

A total of 252 patients with COPD were included. The <100, 100 - 299, and ≥ 300 cells/μL groups consisted of 14.7, 38.9, and 46.4% of patients, respectively. BEC stability was highest (85%) in the ≥300 cells/μL group for both durations. The lowest stability was observed in the <100 cells/μL group at 57 and 46% after 6 and 12 months, respectively. The persistent ≥ 300 cells/μL group had a higher incidence of moderate-to-severe exacerbation (IRR 2.44, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13-5.27, p value 0.023, as well as severe exacerbation (IRR 2.19, 95%CI: 1.39-3.45, p value 0.001). Other patient-reported outcomes did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusion

Blood eosinophil levels had good stability in patients with COPD with BEC ≥300 cells/µL and was associated with a high risk of exacerbation in the persistent ≥300 cells/μL group. The variability of BEC was higher in patients with COPD with BEC <300 cells/µL.

CNS Efficacy of Osimertinib With or Without Chemotherapy in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Mutated Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

PURPOSE

We report CNS efficacy of first-line osimertinib plus chemotherapy versus osimertinib monotherapy in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from the phase III FLAURA2 study according to baseline CNS metastasis status.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to osimertinib plus platinum-pemetrexed (combination) or osimertinib monotherapy until disease progression or discontinuation. Brain scans were performed in all patients at baseline and progression and at scheduled assessments until progression for patients with baseline CNS metastases; scans were assessed by neuroradiologist CNS blinded independent central review (BICR).

RESULTS

On the basis of baseline CNS BICR, 118 of 279 (combination) and 104 of 278 (monotherapy) randomly assigned patients had ≥one measurable and/or nonmeasurable CNS lesion and were included in the CNS full analysis set (cFAS); 40 of 118 and 38 of 104 had ≥one measurable target CNS lesion and were included in the post hoc CNS evaluable-for-response set (cEFR). In the cFAS, the hazard ratio (HR) for CNS progression or death was 0.58 (95% CI, 0.33 to 1.01). In patients without baseline CNS metastases, the HR for CNS progression or death was 0.67 (95% CI, 0.43 to 1.04). In the cFAS, CNS objective response rates (ORRs; 95% CI) were 73% (combination; 64 to 81) versus 69% (monotherapy; 59 to 78); 59% versus 43% had CNS complete response (CR). In the cEFR, CNS ORRs (95% CI) were 88% (73 to 96) versus 87% (72 to 96); 48% versus 16% had CNS CR.

CONCLUSION

Osimertinib plus platinum-pemetrexed demonstrated improved CNS efficacy compared with osimertinib monotherapy, including delaying CNS progression, irrespective of baseline CNS metastasis status. These data support this combination as a new first-line treatment for patients with EGFR-mutated advanced NSCLC, including those with CNS metastases.

Patient-reported outcomes with durvalumab, with or without tremelimumab, plus chemotherapy as first-line treatment for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (POSEIDON)

OBJECTIVES

In the phase 3 POSEIDON study, first-line tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy significantly improved overall survival and progression-free survival versus chemotherapy in metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We present patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Treatment-naïve patients were randomized 1:1:1 to tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy, durvalumab plus chemotherapy, or chemotherapy. PROs (prespecified secondary endpoints) were assessed using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer 30-item core quality of life questionnaire version 3 (QLQ-C30) and its 13-item lung cancer module (QLQ-LC13). We analyzed time to deterioration (TTD) of symptoms, functioning, and global health status/quality of life (QoL) from randomization by log-rank test and improvement rates by logistic regression.

RESULTS

972/1013 (96 %) patients randomized completed baseline QLQ-C30 and QLQ-LC13 questionnaires, with scores comparable between treatment arms. Patients receiving tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy versus chemotherapy had longer median TTD for all PRO items. Hazard ratios for TTD favored tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy for all items except diarrhea; 95 % confidence intervals did not cross 1.0 for global health status/QoL, physical functioning, cognitive functioning, pain, nausea/vomiting, insomnia, constipation, hemoptysis, dyspnea, and pain in other parts. For durvalumab plus chemotherapy, median TTD was longer versus chemotherapy for all items except nausea/vomiting and diarrhea. Hazard ratios favored durvalumab plus chemotherapy for all items except appetite loss; 95 % confidence intervals did not cross 1.0 for global health status/QoL, physical functioning, role functioning, dyspnea, and pain in other parts. For both immunotherapy plus chemotherapy arms, improvement rates in all PRO items were numerically higher versus chemotherapy, with odds ratios > 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy delayed deterioration in symptoms, functioning, and global health status/QoL compared with chemotherapy. Together with significant improvements in survival, these results support tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy as a first-line treatment option in metastatic NSCLC.

Predictive and Prognostic Value of TUBB3, RRM1, APE1, and Survivin Expression in Chemotherapy-Receiving Patients with Advanced Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the expression of class III β-tubulin (TUBB3), ribonucleoside-diphosphate reductase 1 (RRM1), apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1), and survivin in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to predict response to chemotherapy.

METHODS

TUBB3, RRM1, APE1, and survivin expression levels were determined using immunohistochemistry. Protein expression was validated in Car/Pac-resistant human H1792 and A549 cells. This study included 86 patients, among whom 34 received cisplatin (Cis)/gemcitabine (Gem) and 52 received carboplatin (Car)/paclitaxel (Pac).

RESULTS

Patients with low TUBB3 expression and high RRM1 and survivin expression had higher response rates than those with low RRM1 and survivin expression and high TUBB3 expression in the Car/Pac regimen. The multivariate analysis indicated that TUBB3 and RRM1 were significant independent predictive biomarkers for the Car/Pac regimen; however, there was no association between any protein and overall response in patients treated with this regimen. In the Cis/Gem regimen, only high TUBB3 expression was associated with poor overall survival; however, it did not exhibit a prognostic ability.

CONCLUSION

The expression levels of TUBB3 and RRM1 in NSCLC cells are potential predictive biomarkers, but not prognostic factors, of response to chemotherapy in patients with NSCLC receiving the Car/Pac regimen.

Prevalence, predictors, dynamic bone change, and treatment efficacy of osteoporosis among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: a prospective cohort study

Background

Osteoporosis is a silent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) comorbidity that is often under-detected. We aimed to study the prevalence and potential predictors of osteoporosis in COPD. Dynamic changes in bone mass density (BMD) and treatment efficacy of bisphosphonate were also assessed.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included COPD patients between January 2017 and January 2019. Demographics data, spirometric parameters, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were collected. Bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine (L2-4) and both femoral necks were measured after enrollment and the 12-month follow-up. Participants were categorized into three groups per the baseline BMD T-score: normal (≥ - 1.0), osteopenia (between -1.0 and - 2.5), and osteoporosis (≤ - 2.5). In the osteoporosis group, alendronate 70 mg/week with vitamin D and calcium was prescribed.

Results

In total, 108 COPD patients were enrolled. The prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia were 31.5 and 32.4%, respectively. Advanced age, lower body mass index (BMI), history of exacerbation in the previous year, and high CRP levels were significant predictors of osteoporosis. After 12 months, 35.3% in the osteoporosis group reported new vertebral and femoral fractures, compared to none in the non-osteoporosis group (p < 0.001). In the normal BMD and osteopenia groups showed a further decline in BMD after 12-month. Conversely, the osteoporosis group showed a statistically significant improvement in BMD after anti-resorptive treatment (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of osteoporosis was high in Thai COPD patients. Advanced age, lower BMI, history of exacerbation, and high CRP levels were potential predictors. A rapid decline in BMD was observed in COPD patients without treatment.

Phase III Study of Afatinib or Cisplatin Plus Pemetrexed in Patients With Metastatic Lung Adenocarcinoma With EGFR Mutations

PURPOSE

The LUX-Lung 3 study investigated the efficacy of chemotherapy compared with afatinib, a selective, orally bioavailable ErbB family blocker that irreversibly blocks signaling from epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB1), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2/ErbB2), and ErbB4 and has wide-spectrum preclinical activity against EGFR mutations. A phase II study of afatinib in EGFR mutation-positive lung adenocarcinoma demonstrated high response rates and progression-free survival (PFS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this phase III study, eligible patients with stage IIIB/IV lung adenocarcinoma were screened for EGFR mutations. Mutation-positive patients were stratified by mutation type (exon 19 deletion, L858R, or other) and race (Asian or non-Asian) before two-to-one random assignment to 40 mg afatinib per day or up to six cycles of cisplatin plus pemetrexed chemotherapy at standard doses every 21 days. The primary end point was PFS by independent review. Secondary end points included tumor response, overall survival, adverse events, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

RESULTS

A total of 1,269 patients were screened, and 345 were randomly assigned to treatment. Median PFS was 11.1 months for afatinib and 6.9 months for chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.58; 95% CI, 0.43 to 0.78; P = .001). Median PFS among those with exon 19 deletions and L858R EGFR mutations (n = 308) was 13.6 months for afatinib and 6.9 months for chemotherapy (HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.65; P = .001). The most common treatment-related adverse events were diarrhea, rash/acne, and stomatitis for afatinib and nausea, fatigue, and decreased appetite for chemotherapy. PROs favored afatinib, with better control of cough, dyspnea, and pain.

CONCLUSION

Afatinib is associated with prolongation of PFS when compared with standard doublet chemotherapy in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma and EGFR mutations.

Validation of the prognostic scoring system for inhospital mortality prediction in cardiogenic shock patients requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

BACKGROUND

A few prognostic scoring systems have been developed for predicting mortality in patients with cardiogenic shock requiring veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), albeit with variations in performance. This study aimed to assess and compare various mortality prediction models in a cohort of patients receiving VA-ECMO following cardiogenic shock or arrest.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 77 patients with cardiogenic shock who were placed on VA-ECMO support between March 2014 and August 2021. The APACHE II, SAPS II, SAVE, Modified SAVE, ENCOURAGE, and ECMO-ACCEPTS scores were calculated for each patient to predict the in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Fifty-six (72.7%) patients died. All prediction model scores, except the ECMO-ACCEPTS, differed significantly between non-survivors and survivors as follows: ENCOURAGE, 23 versus 16 (p < 0.001); SAVE, -6 versus -3 (p = 0.008); Modified SAVE, -5 versus 0 (p = 0.005); APACHE II, 32 versus 22 (p = 0.009); and SAPS II, 67 versus 49 (p = 0.002). The ENCOURAGE score demonstrated the best discriminatory ability with an area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of 0.81 (95% confidence interval: 0.7-0.81). All prognostic scoring systems possessed limited calibration ability. However, the SAPS II, SAVE, and ENCOURAGE scores had lower Akaike and Bayesian information criteria values, which were consistent with the results of the Hosmer-Lemeshow C statistic test, indicating better performance than the other scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The ENCOURAGE score can help predict in-hospital mortality in all subsets of VA-ECMO patients, even though it was originally designed to predict intensive care unit mortality in the post-acute myocardial infarction setting.

Global survival trends for brain tumors, by histology: analysis of individual records for 556,237 adults diagnosed in 59 countries during 2000-2014 (CONCORD-3)

BACKGROUND

Survival is a key metric of the effectiveness of a health system in managing cancer. We set out to provide a comprehensive examination of worldwide variation and trends in survival from brain tumors in adults, by histology.

METHODS

We analyzed individual data for adults (15-99 years) diagnosed with a brain tumor (ICD-O-3 topography code C71) during 2000-2014, regardless of tumor behavior. Data underwent a 3-phase quality control as part of CONCORD-3. We estimated net survival for 11 histology groups, using the unbiased nonparametric Pohar Perme estimator.

RESULTS

The study included 556,237 adults. In 2010-2014, the global range in age-standardized 5-year net survival for the most common sub-types was broad: in the range 20%-38% for diffuse and anaplastic astrocytoma, from 4% to 17% for glioblastoma, and between 32% and 69% for oligodendroglioma. For patients with glioblastoma, the largest gains in survival occurred between 2000-2004 and 2005-2009. These improvements were more noticeable among adults diagnosed aged 40-70 years than among younger adults.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the largest account to date of global trends in population-based survival for brain tumors by histology in adults. We have highlighted remarkable gains in 5-year survival from glioblastoma since 2005, providing large-scale empirical evidence on the uptake of chemoradiation at population level. Worldwide, survival improvements have been extensive, but some countries still lag behind. Our findings may help clinicians involved in national and international tumor pathway boards to promote initiatives aimed at more extensive implementation of clinical guidelines.

Durvalumab With or Without Tremelimumab in Combination With Chemotherapy as First-Line Therapy for Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: The Phase III POSEIDON Study

PURPOSE

The open-label, phase III POSEIDON study evaluated tremelimumab plus durvalumab and chemotherapy (T + D + CT) and durvalumab plus chemotherapy (D + CT) versus chemotherapy alone (CT) in first-line metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC).

METHODS

Patients (n = 1,013) with EGFR/ALK wild-type mNSCLC were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to tremelimumab 75 mg plus durvalumab 1,500 mg and platinum-based chemotherapy for up to four 21-day cycles, followed by durvalumab once every 4 weeks until progression and one additional tremelimumab dose; durvalumab plus chemotherapy for up to four 21-day cycles, followed by durvalumab once every 4 weeks until progression; or chemotherapy for up to six 21-day cycles (with or without maintenance pemetrexed; all arms). Primary end points were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for D + CT versus CT. Key alpha-controlled secondary end points were PFS and OS for T + D + CT versus CT.

RESULTS

PFS was significantly improved with D + CT versus CT (hazard ratio [HR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.89; P = .0009; median, 5.5 v 4.8 months); a trend for improved OS did not reach statistical significance (HR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.72 to 1.02; P = .0758; median, 13.3 v 11.7 months; 24-month OS, 29.6% v 22.1%). PFS (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.86; P = .0003; median, 6.2 v 4.8 months) and OS (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.92; P = .0030; median, 14.0 v 11.7 months; 24-month OS, 32.9% v 22.1%) were significantly improved with T + D + CT versus CT. Treatment-related adverse events were maximum grade 3/4 in 51.8%, 44.6%, and 44.4% of patients receiving T + D + CT, D + CT, and CT, respectively; 15.5%, 14.1%, and 9.9%, respectively, discontinued treatment because of treatment-related adverse events.

CONCLUSION

D + CT significantly improved PFS versus CT. A limited course of tremelimumab added to durvalumab and chemotherapy significantly improved OS and PFS versus CT, without meaningful additional tolerability burden, representing a potential new option in first-line mNSCLC.

Prevalence, associated factors, and clinical consequences of metabolic syndrome in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: a 5-year prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by multiple systemic comorbidities, not only airflow limitation. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common comorbidity. Patients with COPD have a higher risk of MetS than do healthy individuals.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the prevalence of and explore the factors associated with MetS in Thai COPD patients and to assess the clinical consequences of MetS after a 5-year follow-up period.

METHODS

A prospective observational study was conducted in patients with stable COPD at Songklanagarind Hospital between June 2015 and November 2019. MetS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation 2005 criteria. The patients were followed-up for 5 years. The prevalence, associated factors, and consequences of MetS were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients with COPD were enrolled, of whom 95.3% were male. The overall prevalence of MetS was 37.4% (43 patients). Chronic bronchitis and high C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were independently and significantly associated with MetS in patients with COPD (p = 0.036 and 0.044, respectively). After following patients for 5 years, the incidence of cardiovascular disease and stroke, exacerbation rate, and mortality rate were significantly higher in the COPD with MetS group [relative risk (RR) = 15.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) = (2.13-110.67), RR = 45.43, 95% CI = (4.61-447.07), RR = 1.94, 95% CI = (1.40-2.70), and RR = 48.01, 95% CI = (1.12-2049.43), respectively].

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of MetS is high in patients with COPD. Chronic bronchitis and high CRP levels are associated with MetS in COPD. The incidence of clinical consequences was significantly higher in patients with COPD and MetS after a 5-year follow-up. Screening for MetS is strongly recommended for all patients with COPD.

Utility of prophylactic percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube in head and neck cancer patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiation: A prospective observational cohort

PURPOSE

The necessity of prophylactic percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PPEG) before concurrent chemoradiation (CCRT) in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients remains uncertain. We evaluated the utilization rate of PPEG tube. Weight changes and tube dependence were also assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective cohort study evaluated the utilization rate of PPEG tube in patients with newly diagnosed HNC undergoing CCRT. Baseline characteristics, nutrition status, and weight loss data were collected and compared between use and non-use groups.

RESULTS

110 patients (94.8%) used PPEG tube (70 fully-used and 40 partially-used groups). Non-users had a tendency to lose weight more than partially and fully-used groups; 9.13%, 3.42%, and 1.95%, respectively (p = 0.085). Fully-used group had significantly longer time of tube dependence than partially-used group, 7.0 months versus 4.9 months (p = 0.012). The type of PPEG tube use (full use or partial use) and presence of dysphagia were significantly related to tube dependence. The time ratio of tube dependence for partially-used patients versus fully-used patients was 0.82 (95% CI: 0.68-0.99) (p = 0.039). The time ratio for patients with symptoms of dysphagia was 1.29 (95% CI: 1.02-1.63) (p = 0.032). At the end of CCRT, 96.6% of patients agreed that PPEG tube was necessary.

CONCLUSION

We recommend PPEG for patients undergoing CCRT. Partial use of PPEG with continuous oral intake as tolerated is strongly encouraged to maintain weight, and to reduce risk of tube dependence. Future study to evaluate effective swallowing exercise is warranted.

Durvalumab (D) +/- tremelimumab (T) + chemotherapy (CT) in first-line (1L) metastatic (m) NSCLC: AE management in POSEIDON

9035

Background: In the Phase 3 POSEIDON study in 1L mNSCLC, adding T to D+CT resulted in statistically significant improvements in PFS and OS vs CT. No new safety signals were identified and treatment discontinuations due to treatment-related AEs (TRAEs) were similar for the T+D+CT and D+CT arms (15.5% and 14.1%). Here we present details of AEs and their management. Methods: 1013 pts with EGFR/ ALK wild-type mNSCLC were randomized 1:1:1 to 1L T+D+CT, D+CT or CT. Safety was assessed in all treated pts. Results: 330, 334 and 333 pts received T+D+CT, D+CT and CT; 78%, 82% and 74% received at least 4 cycles of platinum-based CT. The most common grade 3/4 TRAEs were hematologic (anemia in 17%, 15% and 20% of pts in the T+D+CT, D+CT and CT arms and neutropenia in 16%, 13% and 12%) and most were managed using standard approaches per local practice; 22%, 18% and 16% of pts received colony stimulating factors and 22%, 21% and 26% received blood transfusions. All grade immune-mediated AEs (imAEs) occurred in 34%, 19% and 5% of pts in the T+D+CT, D+CT and CT arms; a higher incidence of diarrhea/colitis, dermatitis/rash and endocrinopathies was seen with the addition of T to D+CT (Table). Grade 3/4 imAEs occurred in 10%, 7% and 2% of pts in the T+D+CT, D+CT and CT arms, and serious imAEs in 10%, 6% and 1%; imAEs led to discontinuation of any study treatment in 6%, 4% and 0.6%, and led to death in 0.6%, 0.3% and 0%. Most imAEs were low grade and manageable with systemic corticosteroids (received by 26%, 13% and 4% of pts in the T+D+CT, D+CT and CT arms) or endocrine therapy (12%, 8% and 1%). Median time from first dose to onset of imAEs (TTO) was generally > 60 days and the majority of non-endocrine imAEs resolved (Table). Conclusions: In POSEIDON, the safety profile of all regimens was manageable per standard guidelines and in line with the known profiles of D, T+D and CT; the most common grade 3/4 TRAEs were those typically associated with CT. As expected, more imAEs occurred with T+D+CT than D+CT, but the incidence of grade 3 or 4 imAEs, imAE-related deaths and treatment discontinuations due to imAEs was generally similar in the IO arms. T+D did not compromise the ability to administer planned CT. Clinical trial information: NCT03164616. [Table: see text]

Frequency of PIK3CA mutations in different subsites of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in southern Thailand

Background

Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) mutations have been reported in many cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The frequency of these mutations varies among tumor locations and might be relevant to treatment outcomes among HNSCC. In this study, we examined the frequency of PIK3CA mutations in the different subsites of HNSCC.

Methods

Ninety-six fresh biopsy specimens were investigated for mutations in PIK3CA exons 4, 9, and 20 using allele-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction. Patient characteristics and survival were analyzed and compared between specimens with or without PIK3CA mutations.

Results

The study included primary tumors originating from the oral cavity (n = 63), hypopharynx (n = 23), and oropharynx (n = 10). We identified mutations in 10.4% of patients (10 of 96 specimens). The overall mutational frequency was 17.4% (4/23) and 9.5% (6/63) in the hypopharynx and oral cavity, respectively. No patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma had mutations. Among the 10 mutant specimens, five were missense mutations (exon 9 [E545K] in two samples and exon 20 [H1047R] in three samples) and five were silent mutations in exon 20 (T1025T). Mutations were not found in exon 4. Among 84 patients with available clinical data, we found no significant differences in clinical characteristics and survival based on the presence or absence of PIK-3CA mutations.

Conclusions

The results indicate that PIK3CA mutations are involved in HNSCC carcinogenesis, and the hypopharynx should be considered a primary site of interest for future studies, particularly in Southeast Asian populations.

Benefits of immunonutrition in patients with head and neck cancer receiving chemoradiation: A phase II randomized, double-blind study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The benefits of immunonutrition in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), especially for those undergoing definitive concurrent chemoradiation (CCRT), remain unclear. We evaluated the benefits of immunonutrition regarding the prevention of severe oral mucositis. Secondary objectives included assessments of other treatment-related toxicities, changes of nutritional and inflammatory marker levels, treatment tolerance, and survival.

METHODS

In total, 110 patients with HNC undergoing definitive CCRT including 3-week cycles of cisplatin were enrolled in our double-blind phase II study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive an immunonutrient formula containing omega-3-fatty acids, arginine, dietary nucleotides, and soluble fiber (n = 55) or an isocaloric isonitrogenous control (n = 55). All patients received the assigned product 5 consecutive days before each chemotherapy session. The proportion of patients with severe oral mucositis was compared between the immunonutrients and control groups.

RESULTS

The rates of nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) were 67% and 51% in the immunonutrients and control groups, respectively. All patients had 100% compliance to the assigned product. There was no difference of the proportion of patients with grade 3-4 oral mucositis between the two groups (62% vs. 67%, p = 0.690). At the time of analyses, survival tended to be better in the immunonutrients group. The 3-year progression-free survival rates were 69% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 55%-80%) and 44% (95% CI = 30%-57%) in the immunonutrients and control groups, respectively (p = 0.056), whereas the 3-year overall survival rates in these groups were 69% (95% CI = 54%-80%) and 50% (95% CI = 36%-66%; p = 0.065), respectively. In subgroup analyses according to the primary tumor location, the survival benefits were apparently maintained in patients with NPC.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our study did not demonstrate a reduced risk of severe oral mucositis, we found that immunonutrition might improve survival. Larger studies are needed to determine the optimal dose and schedule of immunonutrition to prevent oral mucositis. In addition, randomized phase III trials evaluating the survival benefits of immunonutrition in patients with cancer are required, and NPC might be a primary malignancy of interest.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05101889.

Diagnostic and prognostic value of serum miR-145 and vascular endothelial growth factor in non-small cell lung cancer

Previous studies have reported the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum microRNA (miR)-145 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in various types of cancer; however, their clinical use in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. The present study included 215 patients, 106 with NSCLC and 109 with other lung diseases (OLDs). miR-145 expression levels were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and VEGF levels were measured using an ELISA. The diagnostic performance was assessed using a receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve (AUC) analysis. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve and Cox regression analysis were employed to evaluate the prognostic significance of the markers. The biological function of miR-145 was examined in A549 and H1792 cell lines. The effects of miR-145 on cell proliferation of NSCLC cells were evaluated by flow cytometry, and the expression levels of miR-145 and cell cycle-related genes were determined by RT-qPCR. The results revealed that miR-145 and VEGF exhibited fair diagnostic performance [AUC, 0.61 (95% CI, 0.55-0.68) and AUC, 0.64 (95% CI, 0.57-0.71), respectively]. Combining age and smoking status with miR-145 and VEGF provided the best model for differentiating patients with NSCLC from those with OLDs (AUC, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.69-0.83). Furthermore, low serum miR-145 levels were associated with poor overall survival [hazard ratio (HR), 0.48; 95% CI, 0.27-0.85], whereas high VEGF levels were not associated with poor overall survival (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.81-2.68). In addition, the results of the in vitro experiments indicated that miR-145 decreased cell proliferation via the induction of cell cycle arrest. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that combining miR-145 and VEGF levels with clinical risk factors may be a potential diagnostic scheme for NSCLC. In addition, serum miR-145 may be used as a prognostic marker. These results indicated that miR-145 may function as a tumor suppressor in NSCLC.

Durvalumab With or Without Tremelimumab vs Standard Chemotherapy in First-line Treatment of Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: The MYSTIC Phase 3 Randomized Clinical Trial

Question

Does first-line durvalumab treatment with or without tremelimumab improve survival outcomes vs chemotherapy in patients with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer?

Findings

In this phase 3 randomized clinical trial including 1118 patients with non–small cell lung cancer, although the trial did not meet its primary end points, treatment with durvalumab resulted in a numerically reduced risk of death vs chemotherapy in patients with programmed cell death ligand 1 expression on at least 25% of tumor cells. In exploratory analyses, a blood tumor mutational burden threshold of at least 20 mutations per megabase was identified for optimal clinical benefit with durvalumab plus tremelimumab vs chemotherapy.

Meaning

These findings highlight the need for further investigation and prospective validation of blood tumor mutational burden as a predictive biomarker for immunotherapy.

Importance

Checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed cell death 1 or its ligand (PD-L1) as monotherapies or in combination with anti–cytotoxic T-lymphocyte–associated antigen 4 have shown clinical activity in patients with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer.

Objective

To compare durvalumab, with or without tremelimumab, with chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for patients with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This open-label, phase 3 randomized clinical trial (MYSTIC) was conducted at 203 cancer treatment centers in 17 countries. Patients with treatment-naive, metastatic non–small cell lung cancer who had no sensitizing EGFR or ALK genetic alterations were randomized to receive treatment with durvalumab, durvalumab plus tremelimumab, or chemotherapy. Data were collected from July 21, 2015, to October 30, 2018.

Interventions

Patients were randomized (1:1:1) to receive treatment with durvalumab (20 mg/kg every 4 weeks), durvalumab (20 mg/kg every 4 weeks) plus tremelimumab (1 mg/kg every 4 weeks, up to 4 doses), or platinum-based doublet chemotherapy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end points, assessed in patients with ≥25% of tumor cells expressing PD-L1, were overall survival (OS) for durvalumab vs chemotherapy, and OS and progression-free survival (PFS) for durvalumab plus tremelimumab vs chemotherapy. Analysis of blood tumor mutational burden (bTMB) was exploratory.

Results

Between July 21, 2015, and June 8, 2016, 1118 patients were randomized. Baseline demographic and disease characteristics were balanced between treatment groups. Among 488 patients with ≥25% of tumor cells expressing PD-L1, median OS was 16.3 months (95% CI, 12.2-20.8) with durvalumab vs 12.9 months (95% CI, 10.5-15.0) with chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.76; 97.54% CI, 0.56-1.02; P = .04 [nonsignificant]). Median OS was 11.9 months (95% CI, 9.0-17.7) with durvalumab plus tremelimumab (HR vs chemotherapy, 0.85; 98.77% CI, 0.61-1.17; P = .20). Median PFS was 3.9 months (95% CI, 2.8-5.0) with durvalumab plus tremelimumab vs 5.4 months (95% CI, 4.6-5.8) with chemotherapy (HR, 1.05; 99.5% CI, 0.72-1.53; P = .71). Among 809 patients with evaluable bTMB, those with a bTMB ≥20 mutations per megabase showed improved OS for durvalumab plus tremelimumab vs chemotherapy (median OS, 21.9 months [95% CI, 11.4-32.8] vs 10.0 months [95% CI, 8.1-11.7]; HR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.32-0.74). Treatment-related adverse events of grade 3 or higher occurred in 55 (14.9%) of 369 patients who received treatment with durvalumab, 85 (22.9%) of 371 patients who received treatment with durvalumab plus tremelimumab, and 119 (33.8%) of 352 patients who received treatment with chemotherapy. These adverse events led to death in 2 (0.5%), 6 (1.6%), and 3 (0.9%) patients, respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

The phase 3 MYSTIC study did not meet its primary end points of improved OS with durvalumab vs chemotherapy or improved OS or PFS with durvalumab plus tremelimumab vs chemotherapy in patients with ≥25% of tumor cells expressing PD-L1. Exploratory analyses identified a bTMB threshold of ≥20 mutations per megabase for optimal OS benefit with durvalumab plus tremelimumab.

Trial Registration

ClinicalT rials.gov Identifier: NCT02453282

Serum miRNAs associated with tumor-promoting cytokines in non-small cell lung cancer

Tumor-promoting cytokines are a cause of tumor progression; therefore, identifying key regulatory microRNAs (miRNAs) for controlling their production is important. The aim of this study is to identify promising miRNAs associated with tumor-promoting cytokines in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We identified circulating miRNAs from 16 published miRNA profiles. The selected miRNAs were validated in the serum of 32 NSCLC patients and compared with 33 patients with other lung diseases and 23 healthy persons using quantitative real-time PCR. The cytokine concentration was investigated using the enzyme-linked immunoassay in the same sample set, with clinical validation of the miRNAs. The correlation between miRNA expression and cytokine concentration was evaluated by Spearman’s rank correlation. For consistent direction, one up-regulated miRNA (miR-145) was found in four studies, and seven miRNAs were reported in three studies. One miRNA (miR-20a) and four miRNAs (miR-25-3p, miR-223, let-7f, and miR-20b) were reported in six and five studies. However, their expression was inconsistent. In the clinical validation, serum miR-145 was significantly down-regulated, whereas serum miR-20a was significantly up-regulated in NSCLC, compared with controls. Regarding serum cytokine, all cytokines [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)], except tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), had a higher level in NSCLC patients than controls. In addition, we found a moderate correlation between the TGF-β concentration and miR-20a (r = −0.537, p = 0.002) and miR-223 (r = 0.428, p = 0.015) and a weak correlation between the VEGF concentration with miR-20a (r = 0.376, p = 0.037) and miR-223 (r = −0.355, p = 0.046). MiR-145 and miR-20a are potential biomarkers for NSCLC. In addition, the regulation of tumor-promoting cytokine, through miR-20a and miR-223, might be a new therapeutic approach for lung cancer.

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) with first-line durvalumab (D) ± tremelimumab (T) versus chemotherapy (CT) in metastatic NSCLC: Results from MYSTIC

9048

Background: MYSTIC, an open-label, Phase 3 trial of first-line D (anti-PD-L1) ± T (anti-CTLA-4) vs platinum CT in mNSCLC, showed an improvement in overall survival (OS) with D vs CT in pts with tumor cell PD-L1 expression ≥25% (TC ≥25% [primary analysis population]; D vs CT, HR 0.76 [97.54% CI 0.56–1.02], p = 0.036; D+T vs CT, HR 0.85 [98.77% CI 0.61–1.17], p = 0.202). Here we summarize PROs from MYSTIC. Methods: Immunotherapy/CT-naïve mNSCLC pts were randomized (1:1:1) to D, D+T, or CT. Symptoms, function, and global health status/quality of life (QoL) were assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30 v3 questionnaire and its lung cancer module, QLQ-LC13. A change in score from baseline ≥10 points was predefined as clinically meaningful (CM). Mean changes from baseline (over 12 mos) for prespecified symptoms were analyzed using a mixed model for repeated measures (MMRM). Time from randomization to the first CM deterioration (TTD) was analyzed. Results: Among pts with PD-L1 TC ≥25% (n = 488), there were no differences between arms in symptoms, function, or global health status/QoL at baseline. Compliance with completing the questionnaires was ≥60% to wk 120 in the D±T arms, and to wk 40 (C30) and wk 44 (LC13) in the CT arm. MMRM analysis showed significant between-arm differences in changes from baseline in favor of D for fatigue (difference vs CT −9.5) and appetite loss (−11.9; CM), and D+T for fatigue (−11.7; CM). Significantly longer TTD (median, mos) was seen with D and D+T vs CT for appetite loss (12.8 and 5.6 vs 4.5), constipation (14.6 and 9.0 vs 5.5), nausea/vomiting (16.7 and 9.7 vs 4.5), and dyspnea (10.6 and 7.4 vs 5.6); D vs CT for diarrhea (16.3 vs 9.0), insomnia (9.3 vs 6.2), and hemoptysis (not reached vs 10.3); and D+T vs CT for fatigue (5.6 vs 2.0). Significantly longer TTD (median, mos) was also seen with D and D+T vs CT for function (cognitive [9.1 and 6.6 vs 5.2], physical [9.0 and 7.4 vs 4.2], role [D vs CT only; 7.3 vs 3.7], social [12.9 and 5.4 vs 5.2]), and global health status/QoL (5.9 and 6.8 vs 5.5). Conclusions: Pts with PD-L1 TC ≥25% treated with D±T had a reduced symptom burden over time and longer TTD for symptoms, function, and global health status/QoL compared to pts receiving CT. Clinical trial information: NCT02453282.

Methylation of 14-3-3σ gene and prognostic significance of 14-3-3σ expression in non-small cell lung cancer

Loss of 14-3-3σ expression through DNA methylation has been associated with carcinogenesis and the prognosis for various cancer types. Detection of methylation of the gene in serum may be useful for diagnostic utility. The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between 14-3-3σ methylation level in 36 paired tumor tissues of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and matched serum using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. The prognostic significance of 14-3-3σ expression in 167 NSCLC was also evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Methylation of the 14-3-3σ gene was identified in all samples. The methylation level in the serum (mean 87.7%, range 64.6–100%) was higher compared with tumor (mean 46.7%, range 25.3–56.3%). However, no significant correlation between methylation levels in tissues and serums was observed (Spearman's correlation, −0.036; P=0.837). In the 167 tumor tissues, the majority of the cases (83.8%) exhibited negative expression. Adenocarcinoma is more likely to exhibit negative expression (91.4%) compared with squamous cell carcinoma (70.2%). No significant difference was identified in the overall survival according to 14-3-3σ expression status and 14-3-3σ expression did not demonstrated independent prognostic significance. In conclusion, NSCLC harbors certain levels of 14-3-3σ methylation in the tumor and the sera of patients. The clinical value of serum 14-3-3σ methylation should be further elucidated. Immunohistochemical expression 14-3-3σ protein has limited value on prognostic significance.

A Randomized Phase 2 Study Comparing the Combination of Ficlatuzumab and Gefitinib with Gefitinib Alone in Asian Patients with Advanced Stage Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma

INTRODUCTION

A randomized phase 2 study was designed to compare the combination of ficlatuzumab (AV-299), a humanized hepatocyte growth factor-neutralizing monoclonal antibody, plus gefitinib versus gefitinib monotherapy in a pulmonary adenocarcinoma population clinically enriched for EFGR tyrosine kinase inhibitor-sensitizing mutations.

METHODS

A total of 188 patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either gefitinib or ficlatuzumab plus gefitinib treatment. Patients who demonstrated disease control in the single-agent gefitinib arm were allowed to cross over to ficlatuzumab plus gefitinib treatment upon disease progression. Molecular analyses included tumor EGFR mutation status and retrospective proteomic testing using VeriStrat, a multivariate test based on mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

The addition of ficlatuzumab to gefitinib did not provide significant improvement over gefitinib monotherapy for the primary end point of overall response rate or the secondary end points of progression-free survival and overall survival. In the subgroup classified as VeriStrat poor, the addition of ficlatuzumab to gefitinib showed significant improvement in both progression-free survival and overall survival in both the intent-to-treat population and the subgroup with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor-sensitizing mutations. For all patients, the most frequent adverse events were diarrhea, dermatitis acneiform, and paronychia.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the trial showed no significant benefit from the addition of ficlatuzumab to gefitinib in the overall population of Asian patients with advanced-stage pulmonary adenocarcinoma, the biomarker data suggest that patients classified as VeriStrat poor may benefit from ficlatuzumab combination therapy.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the Gc gene for vitamin D binding protein in common cancers in Thailand

BACKGROUND

This case-control study aimed to determine if there were any associations between the two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Gc, rs7041 (Asp416Glu) and rs4588 (Thr420Lys) and 3 common cancers (breast, lung and colorectal) in Thai patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred and eighty two colorectal, 101 breast and 113 lung cancer patients were recruited from one institute during 2011-2013. The controls were age-matched volunteers who had a negative history of index cancers. In addition, vitamin D levels were compared among different genotypes in the 2 SNPs.

RESULTS

The minor allele frequencies of rs7041 (G) and rs4588 (A) were 0.32 and 0.24, respectively. Under the dominant model, the study found significant associations between minor-allele genotypes of the SNP rs7041 (TG/GG) and lung cancer (odds ratio [OR] 1.78, 95% CI 1.05-3.03). When subgroup analysis was performed according to sex and age at diagnosis, the study found that the minor- allele genotypes of rs7041 (TG/GG) were significantly associated with colorectal cancer in patients whose age at diagnosis was more than 60 years (OR 1.67, 95%CI 1.06-2.61) and the minor-allele genotypes of rs4588 (CA/AA) were significantly associated with colorectal cancer in males aged 60 years or less (OR 2.34, 95%CI 1.25-4.37). When SNP combinations (rs7041-rs4588) were examined, the TT-CA combination had a significant protective association with lung cancer (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.22-0.85). On evaluation of serum 25(OH)D levels in 205 individuals without cancer (males 144, females 61), the proportion of subjects with low serum vitamin D (< 20 ng/ml) in those harboring CA or AA genotypes of rs4588 (41.7%) was significantly higher than the CC genotype (15.5%, p-value < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Genetic polymorphisms in Gc were associated with lung and colorectal cancers in Thai patients. Lower serum 25(OH)D in minor variants of rs4588 may explain this association.

Clinical activity of afatinib in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer harbouring uncommon EGFR mutations: a combined post-hoc analysis of LUX-Lung 2, LUX-Lung 3, and LUX-Lung 6

BACKGROUND

Most patients with non-small-cell lung cancer tumours that have EGFR mutations have deletion mutations in exon 19 or the Leu858Arg point mutation in exon 21, or both (ie, common mutations). However, a subset of patients (10%) with mutations in EGFR have tumours that harbour uncommon mutations. There is a paucity of data regarding the sensitivity of these tumours to EGFR inhibitors. Here we present data for the activity of afatinib in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer that have tumours harbouring uncommon EGFR mutations.

METHODS

In this post-hoc analysis, we used prospectively collected data from tyrosine kinase inhibitor-naive patients with EGFR mutation-positive advanced (stage IIIb-IV) lung adenocarcinomas who were given afatinib in a single group phase 2 trial (LUX-Lung 2), and randomised phase 3 trials (LUX-Lung 3 and LUX-Lung 6). Analyses were done in the intention-to-treat population, including all randomly assigned patients with uncommon EGFR mutations. The type of EGFR mutation (exon 19 deletion [del19], Leu858Arg point mutation in exon 21, or other) and ethnic origin (LUX-Lung 3 only; Asian vs non-Asian) were pre-specified stratification factors in the randomised trials. We categorised all uncommon mutations as: point mutations or duplications in exons 18-21 (group 1); de-novo Thr790Met mutations in exon 20 alone or in combination with other mutations (group 2); or exon 20 insertions (group 3). We also assessed outcomes in patients with the most frequent uncommon mutations, Gly719Xaa, Leu861Gln, and Ser768Ile, alone or in combination with other mutations. Response was established by independent radiological review. These trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT00525148, NCT00949650, and NCT01121393.

FINDINGS

Of 600 patients given afatinib across the three trials, 75 (12%) patients had uncommon EGFR mutations (38 in group 1, 14 in group 2, 23 in group 3). 27 (71·1%, 95% CI 54·1-84·6) patients in group 1 had objective responses, as did two (14·3%, 1·8-42·8) in group 2 and two (8·7%, 1·1-28·0) in group 3. Median progression-free survival was 10·7 months (95% CI 5·6-14·7) in group 1, 2·9 months (1·2-8·3) in group 2; and 2·7 months (1·8-4·2) in group 3. Median overall survival was 19·4 months (95% CI 16·4-26·9) in group 1, 14·9 months (8·1-24·9) in group 2, and 9·2 months (4·1-14·2) in group 3. For the most frequent uncommon mutations, 14 (77·8%, 95% CI 52·4-93·6) patients with Gly719Xaa had an objective response, as did nine (56·3%, 29·9-80·2) with Leu861Gln, and eight (100·0%, 63·1-100·0) with Ser768Ile.

INTERPRETATION

Afatinib was active in non-small-cell lung cancer tumours that harboured certain types of uncommon EGFR mutations, especially Gly719Xaa, Leu861Gln, and Ser768Ile, but less active in other mutations types. Clinical benefit was lower in patients with de-novo Thr790Met and exon 20 insertion mutations. These data could help inform clinical decisions for patients with non-small-cell lung cancer harbouring uncommon EGFR mutations.

FUNDING

Boehringer Ingelheim.

Phase III study of afatinib or cisplatin plus pemetrexed in patients with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma with EGFR mutations

PURPOSE

The LUX-Lung 3 study investigated the efficacy of chemotherapy compared with afatinib, a selective, orally bioavailable ErbB family blocker that irreversibly blocks signaling from epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB1), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2/ErbB2), and ErbB4 and has wide-spectrum preclinical activity against EGFR mutations. A phase II study of afatinib in EGFR mutation-positive lung adenocarcinoma demonstrated high response rates and progression-free survival (PFS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this phase III study, eligible patients with stage IIIB/IV lung adenocarcinoma were screened for EGFR mutations. Mutation-positive patients were stratified by mutation type (exon 19 deletion, L858R, or other) and race (Asian or non-Asian) before two-to-one random assignment to 40 mg afatinib per day or up to six cycles of cisplatin plus pemetrexed chemotherapy at standard doses every 21 days. The primary end point was PFS by independent review. Secondary end points included tumor response, overall survival, adverse events, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

RESULTS

A total of 1,269 patients were screened, and 345 were randomly assigned to treatment. Median PFS was 11.1 months for afatinib and 6.9 months for chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.58; 95% CI, 0.43 to 0.78; P = .001). Median PFS among those with exon 19 deletions and L858R EGFR mutations (n = 308) was 13.6 months for afatinib and 6.9 months for chemotherapy (HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.65; P = .001). The most common treatment-related adverse events were diarrhea, rash/acne, and stomatitis for afatinib and nausea, fatigue, and decreased appetite for chemotherapy. PROs favored afatinib, with better control of cough, dyspnea, and pain.

CONCLUSION

Afatinib is associated with prolongation of PFS when compared with standard doublet chemotherapy in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma and EGFR mutations.

LUX-Lung 6: A randomized, open-label, phase III study of afatinib (A) versus gemcitabine/cisplatin (GC) as first-line treatment for Asian patients (pts) with EGFR mutation-positive (EGFR M+) advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung

8016

Background: A is an oral, irreversible, ErbB Family Blocker, blocking signaling from EGFR (ErbB1), HER2 (ErbB2) and ErbB4. A was superior to first-line pemetrexed/cisplatin in a global phase III trial (LUX-Lung 3) in EGFR M+ NSCLC. This study compared the safety and efficacy of first-line A with GC in EGFR M+ Asian pts. Methods: The trial was conducted in Asian countries. Following central testing for EGFR mutations (TheraScreen EGFR RGQ PCR kit), 364 pts (stage IIIB/IV, PS 0–1, chemo-naïve) were randomized 2:1 (A: 242; GC: 122) to daily A 40 mg or IV GC (1,000 mg/m2 D1, 8 + 75 mg/m2q21 days up to 6 cycles). Primary endpoint was PFS by central independent review. Results: Baseline characteristics were balanced in both arms: Female (64.0 vs 68.0%), non-smoker (74.8 vs 81.1%), exon 19 deletion (51.2 vs 50.8%), L858R (38.0 vs 37.7%) in A and GC arms, respectively. PFS was significantly prolonged with A compared with GC by independent review (median PFS 11.0 vs 5.6 months, HR=0.28, p<0.0001); this finding was consistent across all subgroups. Results from the investigator review were similar: HR=0.26, p<0.0001, median 13.7 (A) vs 5.6 months (GC). Objective response (66.9% vs 23.0%, p<0.0001) and disease control (92.6% vs 76.2%, p<0.0001) rates (ORR/DCR) were significantly higher with A. OS, based on 43% of events shows HR=0.95, p=0.7593. Drug-related AEs of ≥G3 were reported in 36.0% (A) and 60.2% (GC) of pts, the most common of which were rash/acne (14.6%), diarrhea (5.4%) and stomatitis/mucositis (5.4%) with A and neutropenia (17.7%), vomiting (15.9%) and leukopenia (13.3%) with GC. Related AEs led to discontinuation in 5.9% (A) and 39.8% (GC) of pts. Patient reported-outcomes (PROs) showed significantly better control of cancer-related dyspnea, cough and pain with A. Conclusions: In EGFR M+ Asian pts, A significantly prolonged PFS with significant improvements in ORR, DCR, PROs. AEs in both arms were as expected, with a more favorable safety profile with A. LUX-Lung 6 is the largest prospective trial in EGFR M+ lung cancer, providing further evidence of superiority of A over standard chemotherapy in this setting. Clinical trial information: NCT01121393.

LUX-Lung 6: Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) from a randomized open-label, phase III study in first-line advanced NSCLC patients (pts) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations

8061

Background: Afatinib (A) is an oral, irreversible, ErbB Family Blocker, blocking signaling from EGFR (ErbB1), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2; ErbB2) and ErbB4. In LUX-Lung 6, A was significantly better than gemcitabine/cisplatin (GC) in terms of progression free survival (PFS) and tumor response, with a more favorable safety profile. Here, we report the PRO results. Methods: 364 pts were randomized (2:1) to receive A or GC. PROs were measured using EORTC questionnaires QLQ-C30/LC13 at baseline and q3w until progression. Changes of ≥10 points (scale 0–100) were considered clinically significant. Analyses of cough, dyspnea and pain were prespecified. Time to deterioration (1st 10-point worsening from baseline) was analyzed using a stratified log-rank test. Percentage improved/worsened by ≥10 points or stable was determined. Mean scores over time were estimated using longitudinal (mixed-effects growth curve) models. Results: Compliance on treatment with questionnaires was >90%. Baseline symptom burden was low (cough: 35; dyspnea: 25; pain: 24). Compared with GC, therapy with A significantly delayed time to deterioration for cough (HR=0.45; p=0.0001), dyspnea (HR=0.54; p<0.0001) and pain (HR=0.70; p=0.03). A higher proportion of A-treated pts had ≥10-point improvements in cough (76% vs 55%; p=0.0003), dyspnea (71% vs 48%; p<0.0001) and pain (64% vs 47%; p=0.003) compared with GC, particularly among pts with baseline symptoms. Mean scores over time for cough, dyspnea and pain also significantly favored A. Consistent with their safety profiles, a significantly higher proportion of A-treated pts had worsening of diarrhea, sore mouth and dysphagia, while fatigue, nausea, and vomiting were significantly worse with GC. Overall, therapy with A significantly improved global health-related quality of life (HRQoL; p<0.0001), physical (p<0.0001), role (p=0.01) and social (p<0.001) functioning compared with GC. Conclusions: In LUX-Lung 6, prolongation of PFS with A was associated with significantly better HRQoL and significantly longer control of lung cancer-related symptoms compared with GC. Clinical trial information: NCT01121393.

LUX-Lung 3: A randomized, open-label, phase III study of afatinib versus pemetrexed and cisplatin as first-line treatment for patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung harboring EGFR-activating mutations

LBA7500

Background: Afatinib (A) is a selective, orally bioavailable, irreversible ErbB family blocker of EGFR (ErbB1), HER2 (ErbB2), and ErbB4. This global study investigated the efficacy and safety of A compared with pemetrexed/cisplatin (PC) in pts with EGFR mutation positive advanced lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: Following central testing for EGFR mutations (companion diagnostic TheraScreen EGFR RGQ PCR kit), 345 pts (stage IIIB/IV, PS 0–1, chemo-naive) were randomized 2:1 (A: 230; PC: 115) to daily A 40 mg or iv PC (500 mg/m2 + 75 mg/m2 q21 days up to 6 cycles). Primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) by central independent review. Results: Baseline characteristics were balanced in both arms: median age, 61 y; female, 65%; Asian, 72%; never-smoker, 68%; Del19, 49%; L858R, 40%; other mutations, 11%. Treatment with A led to a significantly prolonged PFS vs PC (median 11.1 vs 6.9 mos; HR 0.58 [0.43–0.78]; p=0.0004). In 308 pts with common mutations (Del19/L858R), median PFS was 13.6 vs 6.9 mos, respectively (HR=0.47 [0.34–0.65]; p<0.0001). Objective response rate was significantly higher with A (56% vs 23%; p<0.0001). Significant delay in time to deterioration of cancer-related symptoms of cough (HR=0.60, p=0.0072) and dyspnea (HR=0.68, p=0.0145) was seen with A vs PC. Most common drug-related adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea (95%), rash (62%) and paronychia (57%) with A, and nausea (66%), decreased appetite (53%) and vomiting (42%) with PC. Drug-related AEs led to discontinuation in 8% (A; 1% due to diarrhea) and 12% of pts (PC). Conclusions: LUX-Lung 3 is the largest prospective trial in EGFR mutation positive lung cancer and the first study using pemetrexed/cisplatin as a comparator. Treatment with afatinib significantly prolonged PFS compared to PC, with significant improvements in secondary endpoints. AEs with afatinib were manageable, with a low discontinuation rate. With 4.2 mos PFS improvement in the overall population and 6.7 mos in pts with common mutations, afatinib is a clinically relevant first-line treatment option.

LUX-Lung 3: A randomized, open-label, phase III study of afatinib versus pemetrexed and cisplatin as first-line treatment for patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung harboring EGFR-activating mutations

LBA7500

The full, final text of this abstract will be available at abstract.asco.org at 12:01 AM (EDT) on Monday, June 4, 2012, and in the Annual Meeting Proceedings online supplement to the June 20, 2012, issue of Journal of Clinical Oncology. Onsite at the Meeting, this abstract will be printed in the Monday edition of ASCO Daily News.

Comparison of pain and efficacy between large-bore and small-bore chest tube drainage for malignant pleural effusion in Songklanagarind Hospital: A randomized controlled trial

e19608

Background: Malignant pleural effusion is one of the most common presenting symptoms in lung cancer. There has been no large RCT comparing large-bore and small-bore chest tubes in terms of pain and efficacy of management. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 2011. Patients with malignant pleural effusion were randomly allocated to receive either a large-bore or small-bore chest tube. The primary objective was to compare pain using the Numeric Rating Scale. Other objectives included the efficacy of the drainage and pleurodesis and any complications were recorded. Results: Each arm comprised 21 patients. Median age was 61.2 years. Thirty-eight patients (90.5%) had adenocarcinoma; 14(33.3%) had received systemic chemotherapy. Pain score did not differ significantly between the groups from the time of tube insertion to removal. However, pain rose from day 4 until day 9 in the small-bore group. The proportion of patients requiring a second chest tube was higher in the small-bore group (small-bore = 7, 33.3 %; large-bore = 1, 4.8%; p 0.052). Complications were higher in the small-bore group. Five patients were complicated by tube occlusion which occurred only in the small-bore group (23.8 %, p 0.048). Times from tube insertion to lung expansion, to pleurodesis and to chest tube removal did not differ significantly between groups. Pleurodesis was effective in 70-80 % in both groups at the 28-day follow-up. Conclusions: No differences between large-bore and small-bore chest tubes were seen in pain, efficacy of drainage or success of pleurodesis. However, small-bore chest tubes had a higher rate of occlusion and more frequently required additional tube insertion.

ASPIRATION: Phase II study of continued erlotinib beyond RECIST progression in Asian patients (pts) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

TPS7614

Background: First-line erlotinib (an EGFR tyrosine-kinase inhibitor) significantly increased progression-free survival (PFS) vs chemotherapy in phase III trials of pts with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC. Discontinuation of erlotinib on RECIST disease progression (PD) may lead to rapid disease flare-up; continued erlotinib beyond RECIST PD may extend clinical benefit by slowing progression of this life-threatening disease. We describe ASPIRATION, a large, Asian, multicenter, single-arm, open-label, phase II trial (NCT01310036), which will increase understanding of first-line erlotinib and erlotinib continuation beyond RECIST PD in pts with EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Methods: Pts (n=204) ≥18 yrs with stage IV/recurrent NSCLC, ≥1 measurable lesion (≥10mm), ECOG performance status (PS) 0-2 and positive EGFR mutation status established by local pathology laboratory (that underwent voluntarily QA/QC) are eligible. All pts receive erlotinib 150mg/day. Tumor response is evaluated using RECIST (v1.1). The primary endpoint is PFS. At investigator's discretion, pts may continue on erlotinib beyond RECIST PD, e.g. if they have slow PD (>6 months of partial response/stable disease), asymptomatic minimal PD, or new brain metastasis controlled locally. Pts should not continue erlotinib if they have extracranial PD with symptoms; rapid PD and/or worsening of PS; or life-threatening complications. Pts continuing erlotinib who present with second RECIST PD will discontinue. Secondary endpoints include objective response rate, disease control rate, overall survival, and safety. For the exploratory biomarker study, pre-treatment tumor tissue blocks are collected; remaining tissue (after EGFR mutation testing for eligibility) will be analyzed centrally to study the association of biomarkers and clinical outcomes. Pre-treatment and post-treatment plasma and serum samples will be obtained at various time points for biomarker assays, including EGFR mutations and other candidate NSCLC biomarkers. Recruitment began in Apr 2011; the estimated final data collection for the primary endpoint is Dec 2014.

Do we need to perform pulmonary function tests in non-small cell lung cancer patients never diagnosed as COPD?

TPS9151

Background: Although chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer share a common risk factor, namely smoking, health care providers usually overlook the symptom of COPD in the management of lung cancer. Should, then, lung cancer patients undergo pulmonary function tests (PFT) to identify the presence of COPD? Our study was performed to describe the results of pulmonary function tests and define risk factors for COPD in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods: A total of 31 eligible patients with NSCLC but no obvious symptoms of COPD participated. We collected baseline characteristics and conducted a detailed assessment of pulmonary function, particularly spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO). Dyspnea was assessed using modified Borg (mBorg) and modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scores. Results: Twelve patients had airflow limitation (FEV1/FVC<0.7). These patients had mean percent predicted FEV1, RV and DLCO of 52%, 143% and 66% respectively, and a mean RV/TLC of 0.55. Being male, and having a smoking history, low body mass index and squamous cell carcinoma were significantly associated with obstruction in univariate analysis. However, obstruction was not more common in advanced stage than in locally advanced NSCLC. Neither mBorg nor mMRC differed between obstructive and non-obstructive groups. Discussion: COPD was found in patients with NSCLC who had never been diagnosed as, or showed symptoms of, COPD. Male, smoking history, low BMI and squamous cell carcinoma were significantly associated with obstruction.

Acinetobacter baumannii nosocomial pneumonia in tertiary care hospitals in Thailand

BACKGROUND

Nosocomial pneumonia (NP) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the common causative pathogens in NP. The prevalence of multi-drug resistance in A. baumannii has been increasing. The information on clinical features and clinical courses of A. baumannii NP in Thai patients are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical features, risk factors and clinical courses of A. baumannii NP in Thai patients hospitalized in tertiary care hospitals in Thailand.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This was a prospective, hospital-based, active surveillance study on hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in adults hospitalized in 12 tertiary care hospitals in Thailand between 2008 and 2009.

RESULTS

There were 651 NP patients. A. baumannii was the most common cause of NP in 198 patients (30.4%). Most of NP patients were males with median age of 71 years. About 80% had late onset NP with the median duration of 10 days after admission in both A. baumannii and non-A. baumannii NP. Most of NP occurred in patients hospitalized in general medical wards. Most of the features of NP in A. baumannii NP and non-A. baumannii NP were not significantly different. The initial antibiotics prescribed were concordant in about 50% of the patients in both groups. Colistin was usually prescribed to the patients who received antibiotic modifications. The initial clinical responses in A. baumannii NP were less favorable than those in non-A. baumannii NP. The mortality rate in A. baumannii NP seemed to be more than that in non-A. baumannii NP. There was a trend of more persistence of pathogen in A. baumannii NP. Most isolates of A. baumannii were resistant to antibiotics including carbapenems. The patients with extensive drug resistant A. baumannii NP had less favorable responses than NP due to other bacteria, including non-extensive drug resistant A. baumannii. VAP, NP developed in medical ICU and NP with bilateral lung involvements on chest X-ray were associated with A. baumannii as the isolated pathogen.

CONCLUSION

A. baumannii is the most common causative pathogen for NP in tertiary care hospitals in Thailand and most of A. baumannii isolates were resistant to many antibiotics including carbapenems. The hospitalized patient in tertiary care hospitals with VAP, or NP that was developed in medical ICU, or NP with bilateral lung involvements on chest x-ray was likely to be due to A. baumannii. Many NP patients received inappropriate initial antibiotic regimens leading to a high mortality.