1
|
Li J, Fu S, Ye C, Li J. Combination therapy involving azacitidine for acute myeloid leukemia patients ineligible for intensive chemotherapy. Leuk Res 2024; 148:107638. [PMID: 39721469 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2024.107638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2024] [Revised: 11/30/2024] [Accepted: 12/17/2024] [Indexed: 12/28/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex hematological malignancy predominantly affecting the elderly, with a median diagnosis age of 68 years. Despite advances in treatment, elderly AML patients face suboptimal survival outcomes, with an estimated 5-year survival rate below 20 %. Epigenetic dysregulation, notably DNA methylation, is a key factor in the progression of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) to AML. This review examines various combination regimens involving azacitidine (AZA), including those with lenalidomide, histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), kinase inhibitors, metabolic enzyme inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and anti-apoptotic protein inhibitors. Notable among these are the combinations with venetoclax, which has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in phase III trials, and the emerging IDH inhibitors ivosidenib and enasidenib, which have shown significant clinical benefits in patients with IDH mutations. While combination therapies with AZA hold great promise, challenges persist, including translating in vitro synergies to in vivo efficacy and identifying optimal regimens for specific patient populations. Cumulative toxicities may also offset clinical benefits, necessitating rigorous clinical trial design. Future research must focus on refining combination strategies, optimizing dosages and sequences, and thoroughly evaluating therapeutic efficacy and safety to advance the treatment of AML and improve patient outcomes.
Collapse
|
2
|
Iyengar V, Hamlin P, Torka P. SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions | Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in Older Adults: A Comprehensive Review. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA, MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2024:S2152-2650(24)02405-4. [PMID: 39613700 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2024.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 10/25/2024] [Accepted: 11/03/2024] [Indexed: 12/01/2024]
Abstract
Older adults (OA) with DLBCL are a heterogenous population with suboptimal outcomes. In this review, we identify and address the unique challenges encountered in the care of OA with DLBCL. We elaborate on the role and limitations of current geriatric assessment (GA) tools and ways to incorporate fitness in therapeutic decision making. We suggest best practices to implement GA in routine practice and clinical trials. The most widely used tool is simplified GA (sGA) which categorizes patients into fit, unfit and frail groups. Patients who are fit benefit from full dose/curative approach, whereas consideration should be made to reduce the intensity of chemotherapy for unfit patients. Frail patients with DLBCL are a major unmet need without any satisfactory treatment options. Ongoing investigations combining novel therapies into chemotherapy-free regimens are underway with promising early results. In the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting, anti-CD19 CAR-T cell therapy (CART) is now the standard of care for primary refractory disease or relapse within 12 months of completing therapy. Autologous stem cell transplant is still a consideration for fit OA with relapse >12 months after completing therapy. The recent approval of bispecific antibodies is a welcome advance that will greatly benefit OA not eligible for CART. Other regimens available for patients ineligible for CART or for those who experience progression post-CART include polatuzumab-rituximab±bendamustine, tafasitamab-lenalidomide, loncastuximab or chemotherapy-based approaches such as rituximab-gemcitabine-oxaliplatin. We discuss the changing paradigm in R/R DLBCL and spotlight emerging data from recent congresses that can improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Collapse
|
3
|
Solana-Altabella A, Rodríguez-Veiga R, Martínez-Cuadrón D, Montesinos P. A systematic review of venetoclax for the treatment of unfit AML patients in real-world: is all that glitters gold? Ann Hematol 2024:10.1007/s00277-024-05891-w. [PMID: 39150561 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-024-05891-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematological disease that mainly affects elderly patients. Following the randomized VIALE-A trial, current standard treatment in patients who are not candidates for intensive chemotherapy consists of the combination of venetoclax (VEN), a selective inhibitor of the anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2, with azacitidine (AZA) or decitabine (DEC). We performed a systematic review to critically assess the growing existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of the VEN-based combinations in unfit adult patients with newly diagnosed AML in the real-world setting. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of published manuscripts and conference abstracts (European Hematology Association and American Society of Hematology) was conducted (updated March 2024). Primary outcomes were composite complete remission (CRc) and median overall survival (mOS). A total of 73 studies fulfilled inclusion criteria, with a median age of 73 years old. The weighted mean mOS was 10.3 months among 7 138 patients, significantly lower than expected according to the VIALE-A trial (14.7 months), while the weighted mean CRc rate was 58.2% among 5 831 patients, slightly lower to that reported in the VIALE-A (66.4%). Early death rates at 30 and 60 days were 5% and 13%, respectively. The weighted mean percentage of subsequent allogeneic transplant was 15.4%. In conclusion, breakthrough mOS reported in the VIALE-A trial using VEN-AZA was not well reproduced in real world for unfit newly diagnosed AML patients, while CRc rates were more consistent. Strategies to optimize patient selection, dosing regimens, and supportive care are crucial to improve outcomes in real-world.
Collapse
|
4
|
Khoury MK, Thornton MA, Eagleton MJ, Srivastava SD, Zacharias N, Dua A, Mohapatra A. Assessment of fitness for open repair in patients with infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. J Vasc Surg 2024; 80:389-396.e2. [PMID: 38614140 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2024.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) was originally designed as a treatment modality for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) deemed unfit for open repair. However, the definition of "unfit for open repair" is largely subjective and heterogenous. The purpose of this study was to compare patients deemed unfit for open repair who underwent EVAR to a matched cohort who underwent open repair for infrarenal AAAs. METHODS The Vascular Quality Initiative of the Society for Vascular Surgery was queried for patients who underwent EVAR and open infrarenal AAA repair from 2003 to 2022. Patients that underwent EVAR were included if they were deemed unfit for open repair by the operating surgeon. EVAR patients deemed unfit because of a hostile abdomen were excluded. Patients in both the open and EVAR datasets were excluded if their repair was deemed non-elective or if they had prior aortic surgery. EVAR patients were matched to a cohort of open patients. The primary outcome for this study was 1-year mortality. Secondary outcomes included 30-day mortality, major adverse cardiac events, pulmonary complications, non-home discharge, reinterventions, and 5-year survival. RESULTS A total of 5310 EVAR patients were identified who were deemed unfit for open repair. Of those, 3028 EVAR patients (57.0%) were able to be matched 1:1 to a cohort of open patients. Open patients had higher rates of major adverse cardiac events (20.2% vs 4.4%; P < .001), pulmonary complications (12.8% vs 1.6%; P < .001), non-home discharges (28.5% vs 7.9%; P < .001), and 30-day mortality (4.5% vs 1.4%; P < .001). There were no differences in early survival, but open repair had better middle and late survival compared with EVAR over the course of 5 years. A total of 74 EVAR patients (2.4%) had reinterventions during the study period. EVAR patients that required interventions had higher 1-year (40.5% vs 7.3%; P < .001) and 5-year mortality (43.2% vs 14.1%; P < .001) compared with those that did not require reinterventions. EVAR patients who had reinterventions had higher 1-year (40.5% vs 6.3%; P < .001) and 5-year (43.2% vs 20.3%; P = .006) mortality compared with their matched open cohort. CONCLUSIONS Patients undergoing EVAR for AAAs who are deemed unfit for open repair have better perioperative morbidity and mortality compared with open repair. However, patients who had an open repair had better middle and late survival over the course of 5 years. The categorization of unfitness for open surgery may be inaccurate and re-evaluation of this terminology/concept should be undertaken.
Collapse
|
5
|
Dogha MM, Shaker H, Abdelazeez A, Abd-El Latif A, ElAdawy MS. Tamsulosin 0.8 mg daily dose in management of BPH patients with failed tamsulosin 0.4 mg monotherapy and unfit for surgical intervention. World J Urol 2024; 42:365. [PMID: 38822877 PMCID: PMC11144140 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-024-05050-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of administering double-dose tamsulosin (0.8 mg) for treating patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who have not responded to the standard single dose of tamsulosin (0.4 mg) and are deemed unsuitable for transurethral resection (TUR) intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between November 2022 and July 2023, we prospectively analyzed 111 patients who were experiencing severe BPH symptoms. These patients received a double dose of tamsulosin for one month. We collected baseline characteristics such as age, body mass index, and underlying medical conditions. Various parameters including the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, prostate volume, peak urinary flow rate (Qmax), voided volume, and post-void residual volume were evaluated before and after treatment. RESULTS All 111 patients completed the study. The mean age, PSA level, and prostate volume were 63.12 ± 4.83 years, 3.42 ± 0.93 ng/ml, and 50.37 ± 19.23 ml, respectively. Of these patients, 93 showed improvement in Qmax, post-void residual volume, and IPSS score (p-value = 0.001). The total IPSS score and total Qmax improved from 24.03 ± 2.49 and 7.72 ± 1.64 ml/sec to 16.41 ± 3.84 and 12.08 ± 2.37 ml/sec, respectively. CONCLUSION Double-dose 0.8mg tamsulosin as an alpha-blocker therapy appears to be a viable temporary management option for BPH patients who have not responded to the standard single dose 0.4mg tamsulosin and are not suitable candidates for TUR intervention.
Collapse
|
6
|
Tauveron-Jalenques U, Lambert J. [Decitabine-cedazuridine as first line in acute myeloid leukaemia ineligible for conventional induction chemotherapy]. Bull Cancer 2024; 111:435-436. [PMID: 38582741 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2024.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
|
7
|
Coccolini F, Cucinotta E, Mingoli A, Zago M, Altieri G, Biloslavo A, Caronna R, Cengeli I, Cicuttin E, Cirocchi R, Cobuccio L, Costa G, Cozza V, Cremonini C, Del Vecchio G, Dinatale G, Fico V, Galatioto C, Kuriara H, Lacavalla D, La Greca A, Larghi A, Mariani D, Mirco P, Occhionorelli S, Parini D, Polistina F, Rimbas M, Sapienza P, Tartaglia D, Tropeano G, Venezia P, Venezia DF, Zaghi C, Chiarugi M. Acute cholecystitis management in high-risk, critically ill, and unfit-for-surgery patients: the Italian Society of Emergency Surgery and Trauma (SICUT) guidelines. Updates Surg 2024; 76:331-343. [PMID: 38153659 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-023-01729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Dealing with acute cholecystitis in high-risk, critically ill, and unfit-for-surgery patients is frequent during daily practice and requires complex management. Several procedures exist to postpone and/or prevent surgical intervention in those patients who temporarily or definitively cannot undergo surgery. After a systematic review of the literature, an expert panel from the Italian Society of Emergency Surgery and Trauma (SICUT) discussed the different issues and statements in subsequent rounds. The final version of the statements was discussed during the annual meeting in Rome (September 2022). The present paper presents the definitive conclusions of the discussion. Fifteen statements based on the literature evidence were provided. The statements gave precise indications regarding the decisional process and the management of patients who cannot temporarily or definitively undergo cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis. Acute cholecystitis management in high-risk, critically ill, and unfit-for-surgery patients should be multidisciplinary. The different gallbladder drainage methods must be tailored according to each patient and based on the expertise of the hospital. Percutaneous gallbladder drainage is recommended as the first choice as a bridge to surgery or in severely physiologically deranged patients. Endoscopic gallbladder drainage (cholecystoduodenostomy and cholecystogastrostomy) is suggested as a second-line alternative especially as a definitive procedure for those patients not amenable to surgical management. Trans-papillary gallbladder drainage is the last option to be reserved only to those unfit for other techniques. Delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with percutaneous gallbladder drainage is suggested in all those patients recovering from the conditions that previously discouraged surgical intervention after at least 6 weeks from the gallbladder drainage.
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang Y, Xu J, Li P, Xu Y, Xue H, Liu P. Zanubrutinib-lenalidomide-rituximab (ZR 2) in unfit diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: efficient and tolerant. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:499-510. [PMID: 37957370 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05498-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to examine the effectiveness and safety of zanubrutinib, rituximab, and lenalidomide (ZR2) in unfit patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Thrombosis or bleeding risk of ZR2 regimen, especially when antiplatelet agents were co-prescribed, was also evaluated. We retrospectively reviewed unfit newly diagnosed (ND) and refractory or relapsed (R/R) patients with DLBCL who were administered with ZR2 regimen in two medical centers between December 2019 and February 2022. Response rates, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), bleeding adverse events (AEs), and thrombosis episodes were analyzed. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of zanubrutinib alone or in combination with lenalidomide on platelet functions in vitro and in vivo. A total of 30 unfit patients (13 ND DLBCL and 17 R/R DLBCL patients) who received ZR2 regimen were enrolled in the study (median age: 69.5 years). The ultimate ORRs for the ND DLBCL and R/R DLBCL were 77.0% and 50.1%, respectively. The median follow-up was 16.6 months. The median PFS and OS were not achieved during the follow-up time. Subcutaneous hemorrhage AEs occurred in four cases, three cases suffered severe bleeding events, and thrombosis events were observed in two patients. ZR2 regimen inhibited platelet functions (aggregation, clot retraction, spreading and activation) in vitro and in vivo function testing especially in response to collagen. ZR2 is an efficient treatment option for unfit patients with DLBCL and could be well tolerated. Notably, this regimen inhibited platelet functions. Antiplatelet agents should be used with caution in patients treated with this regimen.
Collapse
|
9
|
Maurillo L, Spagnoli A, Candoni A, Papayannidis C, Borlenghi E, Lazzarotto D, Fianchi L, Sciumè M, Zannier ME, Buccisano F, Del Principe MI, Mancini V, Breccia M, Fanin R, Todisco E, Lunghi M, Palmieri R, Fracchiolla N, Musto P, Rossi G, Venditti A. Comparison between azacitidine and decitabine as front-line therapy in elderly acute myeloid leukemia patients not eligible for intensive chemotherapy. Leuk Res 2023; 127:107040. [PMID: 36801702 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2023.107040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
We compared the efficacy of azacitidine (AZA) and decitabine (DEC) in elderly patients with untreated AML, diagnosed according to WHO criteria. In the two groups, we evaluated complete remission (CR), overall survival (OS) and disease free survival (DFS). The AZA and DEC groups included 139 and 186 patients, respectively. To minimize the effects of treatment selection bias, adjustments were made using the propensity-score matching method, which yielded 136 patient pairs. In the AZA and DEC cohort, median age was 75 years in both, (IQR, 71-78 and 71-77), median WBCc at treatment onset 2.5 × 109/L (IQR, 1.6-5.8) and 2.9 × 109/L (IQR, 1.5-8.1), median bone marrow (BM) blast count 30% (IQR, 24-41%) and 49% (IQR, 30-67%), 59 (43%) and 63 (46%) patients had a secondary AML, respectively. Karyotype was evaluable in 115 and 120 patients: 80 (59%) and 87 (64%) had intermediate-risk, 35 (26%) and 33 (24%) an adverse risk karyotype, respectively. Median number of cycles delivered was 6 (IQR, 3.0-11.0) and 4 (IQR, 2.0-9.0), CR rate was 24% vs 29%, median OS and 2-year OS rates 11.3 (95% CI 9.5-13.8) vs 12.0 (95% CI 7.1-16.5) months and 20% vs 24%, respectively. No differences in CR and OS were found within the following subgroup: intermediate- and adverse-risk cytogenetic, frequency of WBCc at treatment ≥ 5 × 10^9 L and < 5 × 10^9/L, de novo and secondary AML, BM blast count < and ≥ 30%. Median DFS for AZA and DEC treated patients was 9.2 vs 12 months, respectively. Our analysis indicates similar outcomes with AZA compared to DEC.
Collapse
|
10
|
MRD negative CR after azacitidine and venetoclax in a young patient with AML, unfit for intensive induction followed by ASCT. Leuk Res Rep 2021; 16:100267. [PMID: 34540583 PMCID: PMC8436161 DOI: 10.1016/j.lrr.2021.100267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A subset of AML patients are unfit for 7+3 induction at the time of diagnosis. Present case highlights the use of azacitidine and venetoclax in a patient with intermediate risk AML with WT-1 mutation,deemed unfit for intensive induction in view of poor general condition and comorbid illness. After venetoclax and azacitidine patient was negative for measurable residual disease but developed cerebellar toxicity after high dose cytarabine. He underwent successful matched sibling allogeneic stem cell transplant and is presently on routine follow up. This case report suggest possible role of this combination even in young patients unfit for intensive induction.
Collapse
|
11
|
Katayama S, Kobayashi Y, Takamoto A, Edamura K, Sadahira T, Iwata T, Nishimura S, Sako T, Wada K, Araki M, Watanabe M, Watanabe T, Nasu Y. Impact of paclitaxel, cisplatin, and gemcitabine as first-line chemotherapy in cisplatin-fit and - unfit patients with advanced/metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Urol Oncol 2021; 39:731.e25-731.e32. [PMID: 33775531 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2021.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to clarify the efficacy and toxicity of first-line combination treatment with paclitaxel, cisplatin, and gemcitabine (PCG) for advanced/metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) in cisplatin-unfit patients compared with cisplatin-fit patients. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of patients who received first-line PCG. Using international consensus criteria, patients were classified into cisplatin-fit and -unfit groups. Cisplatin-unfit patients received PCG with adjustment of the cisplatin dose after assessing 24-hour urinary creatinine clearance, without modifying the administration interval. RESULTS From 2008 to 2017, 50 patients received first-line PCG, of whom 30 and 20 were classified into the cisplatin-fit and -unfit groups. After a median follow-up of 15.0 months, the median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 15.0 and 9.8 months in all patients, 15.0 and 10.0 months in the cisplatin-fit group, and 13.2 and 9.3 months in the cisplatin-unfit group, respectively. There was no significant difference in OS (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.69-2.54) or PFS (HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 0.74-2.55) between the groups. The overall response rate and complete response rate were 58% (95% CI: 43.2-71.8) and 32% (95% CI: 19.5-46.7) in all patients, and 55% (95% CI: 31.5-76.9) and 35% (95% CI: 15.4-59.2) in the cisplatin-unfit group, respectively. The common grade 3 of 4 adverse events experienced were neutropenia (78%), followed by thrombocytopenia (56%), anemia (46%), and febrile neutropenia (16%). The 24-hour urinary creatinine clearance did not differ significantly between the groups after one, two, or three courses of PCG. CONCLUSIONS We found no significant difference regarding OS and PFS between the cisplatin-fit patients with a full dose of cisplatin and -unfit patients with cisplatin-dose-adjusted chemotherapy. In select cisplatin-unfit patients, PCG with dose adjustment of cisplatin may be useful for treating advanced/metastatic UC without any significant adverse events or impaired renal function compared with cisplatin-fit patients with a full dose of cisplatin.
Collapse
|
12
|
Lobefaro R, Viscardi G, Di Liello R, Massa G, Iacovino ML, Sparano F, Della Corte CM, Ferrara R, Signorelli D, Proto C, Prelaj A, Galli G, De Toma A, Brambilla M, Ganzinelli M, Trevisan B, Ciardiello F, De Braud F, Morgillo F, Garassino MC, Lo Russo G. Immunotherapy in advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer patients with poor performance status: The role of clinical-pathological variables and inflammatory biomarkers. Lung Cancer 2020; 152:165-173. [PMID: 33421923 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2020.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The introduction of immunotherapy has improved the prognosis of patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). However, data in poor ECOG Performance Status (PS) patients remain scant due to their exclusion from randomized trials. MATERIAL AND METHODS We analyzed data of patients with advanced NSCLC treated with immunotherapy in two Italian Centers, to evaluate the impact of PS (0-1 vs 2) on disease control rate (DCR), progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Chi-square test was used to compare clinical-pathological variables, their impact on survival was evaluated through Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS Among 404 patients included, PS was 0 in 137 (33.9 %), 1 in 208 (51.5 %) and 2 in 59 (14.6 %) patients; 143 were female and 90 had squamous NSCLC. Clinical-pathological variables were uniformly distributed except for higher prevalence of liver metastases in patients with poor PS. We found that PS2 patients showed worse outcomes in terms of DCR (21.8 % vs 50.3 %, p = 0.001), PFS [2.0 (95 % CI 1.6-3.0) vs 3.0 (95 % CI 2.7-4.0) months, p < 0.0001] and OS [4.0 (95 % CI 2.8-5.7) vs 13.2 (95 % CI 11.0-15.8) months, p < 0.0001]. PS2 status, negative PDL1 expression and early corticosteroids exposure as well as higher Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio and LDH at baseline were associated with worse outcomes at univariate and multivariable analysis. Subgroup analysis confirmed poor outcomes in PS2 patients with high LDH and concomitant corticosteroid therapies. The incidence of Grade 3/4 adverse events was 11.3 % in PS 0-1 and 10.2 % in PS 2 patients (p = 0.81). CONCLUSION Our data confirm reduced efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with poor PS even though a good safety. Despite PS remains the most powerful independent prognostic factor for NSCLC, LDH levels and steroids exposure could support the decision making in PS2 patients.
Collapse
|
13
|
Friedlaender A, Banna GL, Buffoni L, Addeo A. Poor-Performance Status Assessment of Patients with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Remains Vague and Blurred in the Immunotherapy Era. Curr Oncol Rep 2019; 21:107. [PMID: 31768759 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-019-0852-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In the latest decade, the introduction of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has dramatically improved the prognosis of patients with NSCLC. First-line ICIs or chemo-ICI trials have demonstrated OS advantages but the accrual was limited to Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS)0-1 patients. ICI studies have for the vast majority excluded patients with poor performance status. PS 2 particularly is known as a negative prognostic factor for survival and a predictive factor of adverse events and poor response to treatments. Data on the activity of ICIs in PS2 patients are limited and come from heterogeneous meta-analyses and small phase II or expanded access trials. Often, terms such as "unfit" or "frail" ascertain the eligibility of patients to undergo cytotoxic chemotherapy, without specifying PS. RECENT FINDINGS Other tools exist to aid in decision-making, and one simple, rapid, and validated screening test for frailty is the FRAIL scale consisting of 5 straightforward questions that can be self-administered and may represent an efficient and cost-effective way to screen large groups of patients for frailty. The Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a widely used method to determine the medical, psychological, and functional capabilities of older patients. However, CGA is time-consuming and this could represent a real barrier to its adoption in clinical practice. For this reason, a quick screening tool, the G8 questionnaire, has been developed and demonstrated validity also in a younger population. A complementary tool to assess patients' frailty is Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) which has become the most widely used clinical index for a variety of disorders and cancers. Yet, none of these tools has been validated as predictive in ICI. In conclusion, solid data regarding the benefit of ICIs in ECOG PS2 NSCLC patients are currently lacking and the role of immunotherapy remains uncertain for PS2 patients. Prospective randomized trials addressing this question are warranted or ongoing. However, we are concerned that without a more extensive and objective assessment of patients' fitness and frailty by using and validating appropriate tools a clear answer may not come to light.
Collapse
|
14
|
Merli F, Cavallo F, Salvi F, Tucci A, Musuraca G, Nassi L, Merli M, Tani M, Gini G, Ferrari A, Molinari AL, Liberati AM, Conconi A, Matteucci P, Bari A, Scalone R, Ferrero S, Zanni M, Mammi C, Luminari S. Obinutuzumab and miniCHOP for unfit patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. A phase II study by Fondazione Italiana Linfomi. J Geriatr Oncol 2019; 11:37-40. [PMID: 31296461 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2019.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate activity and safety of obinutuzumab-miniCHOP (Ga101-miniCHOP) combination in older patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) unfit to receive full dose immunochemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a Simon's two-stage phase II multicenter trial to investigate response rate (primary endpoint) and safety of six courses of Ga101-miniCHOP in older patients with DLBCL (≥65 years), prospectively defined as unfit according to a simplified Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (sCGA). RESULTS Overall, 34 patients were enrolled (median age 82 years; range 68-89), with 27 out of the 33 eligible patients completing all six planned courses. Complete Remission (CR) rate was reported in fourteen patients (42%). After a median follow-up of sixteen months, the two-year Progression Free and Overall Survival (PFS and OS) were 49% (95% Confidence Interval (CI), 28 to 67) and 68% (95% CI, 49 to 81), respectively. The most frequent grade 3-4 adverse event was neutropenia in thirteen patients (26%). CONCLUSIONS Based on the observed CR rate, study accrual was interrupted due to the very low probability of demonstrating the initial study hypothesis that Ga101-miniCHOP could improve results of historical data obtained with R-miniCHOP in this group of patients. Nonetheless, results achieved with the 33 treated patients confirm activity and good tolerability of the Ga101-miniCHOP regimen for older unfit adult patients with DLBCL.
Collapse
|
15
|
Visani G, Ferrara F, Di Raimondo F, Loscocco F, Fuligni F, Paolini S, Zammit V, Spina E, Rocchi M, Visani A, Piccaluga PP, Isidori A. Low-dose lenalidomide plus cytarabine in very elderly, unfit acute myeloid leukemia patients: Final result of a phase II study. Leuk Res 2017; 62:77-83. [PMID: 28987821 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2017.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Outcome for elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is extremely poor. Intensive induction chemotherapy is often unsuitable. Sixty-six newly diagnosed AML patients (median age: 76years), ineligible for standard therapy, were consecutively treated with low-dose lenalidomide (10mg/day orally, days 1-21) plus 10mg/m2 low-dose cytarabine, subcutaneously, twice a day (days 1-15) every six weeks, up to 6 cycles. Complete remission (CR) rate was 36.3% according to intention-to-treat. Responding patients had a longer median overall survival than non-responders (517 vs. 70days, P<0.001). The achievement of CR was not predicted by bone marrow blast count, cytogenetics, molecular markers, prior MDS, white blood cell count. Conversely, by studying the global gene expression profile, we identified a molecular signature, including 309 genes associated with clinical response (CR versus no CR). Based on the expression of a minimal set of 16 genes, we developed an algorithm to predict treatment response, that was successfully validated by showing an overall accuracy of 88%. We met the primary endpoint of the study, by beating the estimated successful CR rate (P1) fixed at 30%. Moreover, CR induced by this 2-drug combo was efficiently predicted by genetic profiling, identifying a biomarker that warrants validation in independent series.
Collapse
|
16
|
De Marinis F, Bria E, Baas P, Tiseo M, Camerini A, Favaretto AG, Gridelli C. Treatment of Unfit Patients With Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Definition Criteria According an Expert Panel. Clin Lung Cancer 2015; 16:399-405. [PMID: 25989953 DOI: 10.1016/j.cllc.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2015] [Revised: 04/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The assessment of special categories of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients requires a comprehensive analysis of all factors potentially influencing the daily quality of life and the relative contribution of tumor-related symptoms on the overall patient health status. While for elderly patients prospective evidence and recommendations allow clinicians to better address their patients to a shared treatment, a paucity of reliable data refers to treatment opportunities for these patients, termed frail or unfit, who are not considered eligible for chemotherapy usually administered to adult patients. This consensus was inspired by the absence of clear criteria to define the category of unfit patients in the context of advanced NSCLC in order to share all the available tools for their classification and evaluation and to support decisions for clinical practice on a daily basis. After review of the literature and panelist consensus, a series of items was identified as relevant: age, performance status, renal function, heart failure, previous cerebrovascular events, uncontrolled hypertension, neuropathy, hearing loss, symptomatic brain metastases, severe psychiatric disorders, and absence of caregiver support. On the basis of these factors, a treatment algorithm for clinical practice to categorize unfit NSCLC patient into 3 major clinical scenarios was defined: (1) unfit for cisplatin-based chemotherapy, (2) unfit for carboplatin-based chemotherapy, and (3) unfit for single-agent chemotherapy.
Collapse
|
17
|
Ramos F, Thépot S, Pleyer L, Maurillo L, Itzykson R, Bargay J, Stauder R, Venditti A, Seegers V, Martínez-Robles V, Burgstaller S, Récher C, Debén G, Gaidano G, Gardin C, Musto P, Greil R, Sánchez-Guijo F, Fenaux P. Azacitidine frontline therapy for unfit acute myeloid leukemia patients: clinical use and outcome prediction. Leuk Res 2014; 39:296-306. [PMID: 25601157 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2014.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Revised: 11/02/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Hypomethylating agents are able to prolong the overall survival of some patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical use of azacitidine as front-line therapy in unfit acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and to develop a clinical prediction model to identify which patients may benefit more from the drug. One hundred and ten untreated unfit AML patients received front-line azacitidine therapy in Spain, and response and survival were evaluated in them following European LeukemiaNet (ELN) guidelines. A clinical prediction rule was obtained from this population that was validated and refined in 261 patients treated in France, Austria and Italy. ELN response was achieved in 21.0% of the 371 patients (CI95% 17.0-25.5) and did not depend on bone marrow blast cell percentage. Median overall survival was 9.6 months (CI95% 8.5-10.8) and 40.6% of the patients were alive at 1 year (CI95% 35.5-45.7). European ALMA score (E-ALMA), based on performance status, white blood cell counts at azacitidine onset and cytogenetics, discriminated three risk groups with different survival and response rates. Azacitidine seems a reasonable therapeutic option for most unfit AML patients, i.e. those displaying a favorable or intermediate E-ALMA score.
Collapse
|