Journal Description

Current Oncology

Current Oncology is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal published bi-monthly online by MDPI (from Volume 28 Issue 1-2021). Established in 1994, the journal represents a multidisciplinary medium for clinical oncologists to report and review progress in the management of this disease. The Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists (CAMO), the Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology (CAPO) and the Canadian Association of General Practitioners in Oncology (CAGPO) are affiliated with the journal and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.

Open Access— free to download, share, and reuse content. Authors receive recognition for their contribution when the paper is reused.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, and many other databases.
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision provided to authors approximately 18.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.3 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2020).
Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.

Impact Factor: 2.257 (2019) ; 5-Year Impact Factor: 2.331 (2019)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 1718-7729

Latest Articles

Open AccessArticle

Staging Investigations in Asymptomatic Early Breast Cancer Patients at the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario

Dalia Kamel

Veronica Youssef

Wilma M. Hopman

and

Mihaela Mates

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2190-2198; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030203 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background: In 2012, the American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO) identified five key opportunities in oncology to improve patient care, recommending against imaging tests for the staging of patients with early breast cancer (EBC) at low risk for metastases. Similarly, the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) guideline does not support radiological staging in asymptomatic EBC (aEBC). The purpose of this study was to assess local practice and outcomes of staging investigations (SIs) in aEBC at the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario (CCSEO). Methods: A retrospective electronic and paper chart review was undertaken to identify all aEBC patients treated at our institution between January 2012 and December 2014. Patients with pathological staging of T1-T2 and N0-1 with any receptor status were included. We collected patient demographics, treatment and pathologic tumor characteristics. The use and outcomes of initial and follow-up SIs were recorded. Data were analyzed to determine associations between the use of SIs and clinical characteristics (chi-square tests, independent samples t-tests and Mann–Whitney U tests). Results: From 2012 to 2014, 295 asymptomatic EBC patients were identified. The mean age was 64, 81% were postmenopausal and 76% had breast conserving surgery. Stage distribution was as follows: stage I 42%, stage IIA 37% and stage IIB 21%. Receptor status was as follows: ER+ 84%, HER2+ 13% and triple negative 12%. Adjuvant chemotherapy was received by 36%, Trastuzumab by 10% and endocrine therapy by 76% of patients. Baseline SIs were performed in 168 patients (57%) for a total of 332 tests. Overt metastatic disease was found in five patients (one bone scan and four CT scans). Seventy-one out of the 168 patients (42%) who received initial staging imaging underwent 138 follow-up imaging tests, none of which were diagnostic for metastases. Nine patients with suspicious CT findings underwent biopsies, of which four were malignant (one metastatic breast cancer and three new primaries). Factors significantly associated with SI were as follows: younger age (p = 0.001), premenopausal status (p = 0.01), T2 stage (p < 0.001), N1 stage (p < 0.001), HER2 positive (p < 0.001), triple negative status (p = 0.007) and use of adjuvant chemotherapy (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Over a 3-year period at our institution, more than 50% of aEBC patients underwent a total of 470 initial and follow-up staging tests, yielding a cancer diagnosis (metastatic breast cancer or second primary cancer) in four patients. We, therefore, conclude that routine-staging investigations in aEBC patients have low diagnostic value, supporting current guidelines that recommend against the routine use of SI in this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Oncology)

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Patient-Reported Experience of Patients Receiving Radiotherapy Measured by Two Validated Surveys

Abdulla Al-Rashdan

Linda Watson

Demetra Yannitsos

Siwei Qi

Petra Grendarova

and

Lisa Barbera

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2180-2189; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030202 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2021

Abstract

Patient-reported experience is associated with improved patient safety and clinical outcomes. Quality improvement programs rely on validated patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) to design projects. This descriptive study compares the experience of cancer patients treated with radiation as recorded through the Ambulatory Oncology Patient Satisfaction Survey (AOPSS) or as recorded through Your Voice Matters (YVM) between February and August 2019. Six questions were compared (“overall experience with care”, “discussion of worries”, “involvement in decisions”, “trusting providers with confidential information”, “providing family with information”, and “knowing who to contact”). Positive experience scores were calculated by cohort and by tumor groups. Multivariable logistic regression models evaluated factors associated with positive experience. Two cohorts (220 and 200 patients) met the eligibility criteria for the AOPSS and YVM, respectively. Positive experience was reported similarly between the two PREMs for “overall experience with care”, “discussion of worries”, and “trusting providers with confidential information” with a score difference of 1–4% at the cohort level. Positive experience score difference ranged from 5% to 44% across questions at the tumor group level. Different experience gaps were identified with the two measures, mainly at the tumor group level. Programs interested in using these PREMS might consider this when designing projects. Full article

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Open AccessCommunication

Real World Outcomes and Hepatotoxicity of Infliximab in the Treatment of Steroid-Refractory Immune-Related Adverse Events

Daniel V. Araujo

Thiago Pimentel Muniz

and

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2173-2179; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030201 - 11 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background and aims: Current guidelines state that infliximab is contraindicated for the treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related hepatitis (ir-hepatitis) due to the risk of inducing further liver damage. As this recommendation is largely based on the use of infliximab for rheumatologic diseases, we evaluated the efficacy and hepatotoxicity of infliximab in patients with steroid-refractory immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients treated with infliximab for irAEs at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. To assess hepatotoxicity, we compared the mean value of ALT, AST, and total bilirubin (BT) before and after infliximab treatment. We used logistic regression to assess factors associated with infliximab efficacy. Results: Between January 2010 and February 2019, 56 patients were identified. The median age of the patients was 63 (27–84) years. Colitis was the most frequent toxicity (66%), followed by pneumonitis (11%). Infliximab was used to treat ir-hepatitis in one patient. The median number of infliximab doses was 1 (1–3) and led to toxicity resolution in 43 (76%) patients. The mean ALT, AST, and BT levels before and after infliximab treatment were not statistically different. The patient treated for ir-hepatitis had a complete recovery, with no incremental liver toxicity. Conclusions: In this dose-limited setting, infliximab was effective in resolving irAEs and did not induce hepatotoxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Oncology)

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Open AccessArticle

Dual Targeting of Sorafenib-Resistant HCC-Derived Cancer Stem Cells

Ritu Shrestha

Kim R. Bridle

Lu Cao

Darrell H. G. Crawford

and

Aparna Jayachandran

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2150-2172; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030200 - 11 Jun 2021

Abstract

Sorafenib, an oral multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been the first-line therapy for the treatment of patients with advanced HCC, providing a survival benefit of only three months in approximately 30% of patients. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare tumour subpopulation with self-renewal and differentiation capabilities, and have been implicated in tumour growth, recurrence and drug resistance. The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the generation and maintenance of the CSC population, resulting in immune evasion and therapy resistance in several cancers, including HCC. The aim of this study is to target the chemoresistant CSC population in HCC by assessing the effectiveness of a combination treatment approach with Sorafenib, an EMT inhibitor and an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). A stem-cell-conditioned serum-free medium was utilised to enrich the CSC population from the human HCC cell lines Hep3B, PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2. The anchorage independent spheres were characterised for CSC features. The human HCC-derived spheres were assessed for EMT status and expression of immune checkpoint molecules. The effect of combination treatment with SB431542, an EMT inhibitor, and siRNA-mediated knockdown of programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) or CD73 along with Sorafenib on human HCC-derived CSCs was examined with cell viability and apoptosis assays. The three-dimensional spheres enriched from human HCC cell lines demonstrated CSC-like features. The human HCC-derived CSCs also exhibited the EMT phenotype along with the upregulation of immune checkpoint molecules. The combined treatment with SB431542 and siRNA-mediated PD-L1 or CD73 knockdown effectively enhanced the cytotoxicity of Sorafenib against the CSC population compared to Sorafenib alone, as evidenced by the reduced size and proliferation of spheres. Furthermore, the combination treatment of Sorafenib with SB431542 and PD-L1 or CD73 siRNA resulted in an increased proportion of an apoptotic population, as evidenced by flow cytometry analysis. In conclusion, the combined targeting of EMT and immune checkpoint molecules with Sorafenib can effectively target the CSC tumour subpopulation. Full article

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Open AccessCase Report

Clinical Benefit from Lenvatinib and Pembrolizumab Observed in Mullerian Adenosarcoma: A Case Report

Thierry Alcindor

Sungmi Jung

and

Lucy Gilbert

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2146-2149; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030199 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

A 32-year-old woman with chemorefractory mullerian adenosarcoma showed clinical benefit in response to administration of lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab. In this case report, we describe the course of her illness and her response to this treatment. Full article

Open AccessReview

Canadian Resources, Programs, and Models of Care to Support Cancer Survivors’ Transition beyond Treatment: A Scoping Review

Claudia Romkey-Sinasac

Stephanie Saunders

and

Jacqueline Galica

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2134-2145; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030198 - 09 Jun 2021

Abstract

(1) Background: One in two Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, but as a result of the progress in diagnosis and treatment, more individuals are surviving cancer than ever before. However, the impact of cancer does not end with treatment. The objectives of this review are to (1) provide a broad overview of the supportive care interventions and models of care that have been researched to support Canadian post-treatment cancer survivors; and (2) analyze how these supportive care interventions and/or care models align with the practice recommendations put forth by Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) and the Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology/Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CAPO/CPAC). (2) Methods: An electronic search was completed in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL in January 2021. Included studies described supportive care interventions or models of care utilized by adult Canadian cancer survivors. (3) Results: Forty-two articles were included. Survivors utilized a multitude of supportive care interventions, with peer support and physical activity programs being most frequently cited. Four models of follow-up care were identified: primary care, oncology care, shared-care, and transition clinics. The supportive care interventions and models of care variably aligned with the recommendations set by CCO and CAPO/CPAC. The most commonly followed recommendation was the promotion of self-management and quality resources for patients. (4) Conclusions: Results indicate an inconsistency in access to supportive care interventions and the delivery of survivorship care for cancer survivors across Canada. Current efforts are being made to implement the recommendations by CCO and CAPO/CPAC; however, provision of these guidelines remains varied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Palliative and Supportive Care)

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Open AccessArticle

Immunohistochemistry for Prostate Biopsy—Impact on Histological Prostate Cancer Diagnoses and Clinical Decision Making

Christoph Würnschimmel

Derya Tilki

Markus Graefen

Luis A. Kluth

Pierre I. Karakiewicz

Felix K.-H. Chun

and

Andreas Becker

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2123-2133; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030197 - 09 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background: To test the value of immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining in prostate biopsies for changes in biopsy results and its impact on treatment decision-making. Methods: Between January 2017–June 2020, all patients undergoing prostate biopsies were identified and evaluated regarding additional IHC staining for diagnostic purpose. Final pathologic results after radical prostatectomy (RP) were analyzed regarding the effect of IHC at biopsy. Results: Of 606 biopsies, 350 (58.7%) received additional IHC staining. Of those, prostate cancer (PCa) was found in 208 patients (59.4%); while in 142 patients (40.6%), PCa could be ruled out through IHC. IHC patients harbored significantly more often Gleason 6 in biopsy (p < 0.01) and less suspicious baseline characteristics than patients without IHC. Of 185 patients with positive IHC and PCa detection, IHC led to a change in biopsy results in 81 (43.8%) patients. Of these patients with changes in biopsy results due to IHC, 42 (51.9%) underwent RP with 59.5% harboring ≥pT3 and/or Gleason 7–10. Conclusions: Patients with IHC stains had less suspicious characteristics than patients without IHC. Moreover, in patients with positive IHC and PCa detection, a change in biopsy results was observed in >40%. Patients with changes in biopsy results partly underwent RP, in which 60% harbored significant PCa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genitourinary Oncology)

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Open AccessCase Report

Emergency Use of Targeted Osmotic Lysis for the Treatment of a Patient with Aggressive Late-Stage Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix

and

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2115-2122; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030196 (registering DOI) - 08 Jun 2021

Abstract

Upregulation of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase (sodium pumps) is common across most malignant carcinomas. Targeted osmotic lysis (TOL) is a developing technology in which the concomitant stimulation of VGSCs and pharmacological blockade of sodium pumps causes rapid selective osmotic lysis of carcinoma cells. This treatment of cervical carcinoma is evidence that TOL is a safe, well-tolerated and effective treatment for aggressive advanced carcinomas that has the potential to extend life without compromising its quality. TOL is likely to have broad application for the treatment of advanced-stage carcinomas. Full article

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Open AccessCommunication

Nurse Navigators’ Views on Patient and System Factors Associated with Navigation Needs among Women with Breast Cancer

and

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2107-2114; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030195 - 05 Jun 2021

Abstract

Coordinating breast cancer treatment is a complex task that can overwhelm patients and their support networks. Though the Cancer Patient Navigator (CPN) program in Nova Scotia (NS) provides professional assistance to patients, certain groups of patients may still face barriers to accessing its services. Employing interviews and a modified Delphi approach with CPN participants, this study sought to identify factors associated with the need for navigation to help better target CPN program referrals among breast cancer patients. Six CPNs were recruited directly through the CPN program manager for interviews and surveys. The CPNs identified 27 different factors, which were divided into 4 categories: sociodemographic, psychological, clinical and health systems. While these patient factors (particularly sociodemographic) are not directly modifiable, awareness of their association with the need for navigation could be used to better target patients with a high need for navigation for referral to CPN services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychosocial Oncology)

Open AccessArticle

The Screening and COnsensus Based on Practices and Evidence (SCOPE) Program–Results of a Survey on Daily Practice Patterns for Patients with mCRC

and

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2097-2106; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030194 - 04 Jun 2021

Abstract

The SCOPE project aimed to better understand practice patterns, identify drivers for treatment goals, and determine third- and fourth-line treatment choices for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). The survey was developed by an expert panel of gastrointestinal oncologists. Questions concerned general practice patterns, and treatment decisions for three hypothetical patient case scenarios. Participants had to routinely manage patients with mCRC. We present results from 629 participants who provided input on patient treatment scenarios (data cutoff: 17/01/2020). Prolonging overall survival (OS; 51%) was the main aim in first line. In third line, quality of life (QOL) was the primary goal (34%). Forty-three percent also cited efficacy-focused goals; 18% and 13% noted prolonging OS and improving progression-free survival as main aims, respectively. For fit and active patients, 89% of respondents considered trifluridine-tipiracil an appropriate third-line treatment; regorafenib (31%) or clinical trial enrollment (29%) were the fourth-line options. For patients with comorbidities and limited caregiver support, trifluridine-tipiracil was the preferred third-line treatment (70%). For KRAS-mutated patients with comorbidities and adverse events who received prior oxaliplatin, 90% considered oxaliplatin rechallenge an unsuitable third-line treatment, mainly due to the risk of cumulative toxicity (75%). In the third/fourth-line settings, trifluridine-tipiracil followed by regorafenib was the most common option (54%); 17% chose regorafenib followed by trifluridine-tipiracil. Efficacy coupled with QOL are important goals in third-line treatment. Daily practice patterns reflect the guideline recommendations in third- and fourth-line settings, with a trend toward using trifluridine-tipiracil versus regorafenib in KRAS-wildtype and KRAS-mutant tumors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

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Open AccessReview

Possible Therapeutic Potential of Disulfiram for Multiple Myeloma

Denisa Weiser Drozdkova

and

Katerina Smesny Trtkova

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2087-2096; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030193 - 03 Jun 2021

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant disease of the plasma cells representing approximately 10% of all hemato-oncological diseases. Detection of the disease is most probable at around 65 years of age, and the average survival of patients is estimated to be 5–10 years, specifically due to frequent relapses and resistance to the therapy used. Thus, the search for new therapeutic approaches is becoming a big challenge. Disulfiram (DSF), a substance primarily known as a medication against alcoholism, has often been mentioned in recent years in relation to cancer treatment for its secondary anti-cancer effects. Recent studies performed on myeloma cell lines confirm high inhibition of the cell growth activity if a complex of disulfiram and copper is used. Its significant potential is now being seen in the cure of haematological malignities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Oncology)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Quality of Colon Cancer Care in Patients Undergoing Emergency Surgery

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Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2079-2086; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030192 - 03 Jun 2021

Abstract

Thirty percent of colon cancer diagnoses occur following emergency presentations, often with bowel obstruction or perforation requiring urgent surgery. We sought to compare cancer care quality between patients receiving emergency versus elective surgery. We conducted an institutional retrospective matched (46 elective:23 emergency; n = 69) case control study. Patients who underwent a colon cancer resection from January 2017 to February 2019 were matched by age, sex, and cancer stage. Data were collected through the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and chart review. Process outcomes of interest included receipt of cross-sectional imaging, CEA testing, pre-operative cancer diagnosis, pre-operative colonoscopy, margin status, nodal yield, pathology reporting, and oncology referral. No differences were found between elective and emergency groups with respect to demographics, margin status, nodal yield, oncology referral times/rates, or time to pathology reporting. Patients undergoing emergency surgery were less likely to have CEA levels, CT staging, and colonoscopy (p = 0.004, p = 0.017, p < 0.001). Emergency cases were less likely to be approached laparoscopically (p = 0.03), and patients had a longer length of stay (p < 0.001) and 30-day readmission rate (p = 0.01). Patients undergoing emergency surgery receive high quality resections and timely post-operative referrals but receive inferior peri-operative workup. The adoption of a hybrid acute care surgery model including short-interval follow-up with a surgical oncologist or colorectal surgeon may improve the quality of care that patients with colon cancer receive after acute presentations. Surgeons treating patients with colon cancer emergently can improve their care quality by ensuring that appropriate and timely disease evaluation is completed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

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Open AccessReview

Interventions and Outcomes for Neoadjuvant Treatment of T4 Colon Cancer: A Scoping Review

Flora Jung

Keegan Guidolin

Michael Ho-Yan Lee

Kimberley Lam-Tin-Cheung

and

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2065-2078; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030191 - 29 May 2021

Abstract

While adjuvant treatment of colon cancers that penetrate the serosa (T4) have been well-established, neoadjuvant strategies have yet to be formally evaluated. Our objective was to perform a scoping review of eligibility criteria, treatment regimens, and primary outcomes for neoadjuvant approaches to T4 colon cancer. A librarian-led, systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CINAHL up to 11 February 2020 was performed. Primary research evaluating neoadjuvant treatment in T4 colon cancer were included. Screening and data abstraction were performed in duplicate; analyses were descriptive or thematic. A total of twenty studies were included, most of which were single-arm, single-center, and retrospective. The primary objectives of the literature to date has been to evaluate treatment feasibility, tumor response, disease-free survival, and overall survival in healthy patients. Conventional XELOX and FOLFOX chemotherapy were the most commonly administered interventions. Rationale for selecting a specific regimen and for treatment eligibility criteria were poorly documented across studies. The current literature on neoadjuvant strategies for T4 colon cancer is overrepresented by single-center, retrospective studies that evaluate treatment feasibility and efficacy in healthy patients. Future studies should prioritize evaluating clear selection criteria and rationale for specific neoadjuvant strategies. Validation of outcomes in multi-center, randomized trials for XELOX and FOLFOX have the most to contribute to the growing evidence for this poorly managed disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

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Open AccessArticle

Geographic and Socioeconomic Disparity of Gastric Cancer Patients in Canada

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Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2052-2064; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030190 - 28 May 2021

Abstract

Gastric cancer is the 5th most common malignancy worldwide, representing ~5–10% of all new cancer cases. Although its incidence is declining, it is estimated that 1 in 98 Canadians will develop gastric cancer in their lifetime. The epidemiology and distribution of gastric cancer throughout Canada, however, remains poorly understood. A retrospective analysis of demographic data across Canada between 1992 and 2010 was performed using 2 population-based cancer registries. The incidence of gastric cancer was examined at the levels of provinces, cities, and postal codes. In addition, 43,955 patients were diagnosed with gastric cancer in Canada between 1992 and 2010; 66% were male and the average age of diagnosis was 68.4 years. The age-adjusted incidence rate was 5.07 cases per 100,000 individuals per year. The incidence decreased over the study period by 30%. High incidence rates were identified in rural areas of Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Quebec. Our study found a significant association between gastric cancer incidence rates and lower socioeconomic status, as well as Hispanic ethnicity. This is the first study to provide a comprehensive analysis of the incidence of gastric carcinoma in Canada, identifying high-risk populations that may benefit from increased primary and secondary prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

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Open AccessConference Report

Canadian Melanoma Conference Recommendations on High-Risk Melanoma Surveillance: A Report from the 14th Annual Canadian Melanoma Conference; Banff, Alberta; 20–22 February 2020

Christina W. Lee

J. Gregory McKinnon

and

Noelle Davis

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2040-2051; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030189 - 27 May 2021

Abstract

Introduction: There are a lack of established guidelines for the surveillance of high-risk cutaneous melanoma patients following initial therapy. We describe a novel approach to the development of a national expert recommendation statement on high-risk melanoma surveillance (HRS). Methods: A consensus-based, live, online voting process was undertaken at the 13th and 14th annual Canadian Melanoma Conferences (CMC) to collect expert opinions relating to “who, what, where, and when” HRS should be conducted. Initial opinions were gathered via audience participation software and used as the basis for a second iterative questionnaire distributed online to attendees from the 13th CMC and to identified melanoma specialists from across Canada. A third questionnaire was disseminated in a similar fashion to conduct a final vote on HRS that could be implemented. Results: The majority of respondents from the first two iterative surveys agreed on stages IIB to IV as high risk. Surveillance should be conducted by an appropriate specialist, irrespective of association to a cancer centre. Frequency and modality of surveillance favoured biannual visits and Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography (PET/CT) with brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among the systemic imaging modalities available. No consensus was initially reached regarding the frequency of systemic imaging and ultrasound of nodal basins (US). The third iterative survey resolved major areas of disagreement. A 5-year surveillance schedule was voted on with 92% of conference members in agreement. Conclusion: This final recommendation was established following 92% overall agreement among the 2020 CMC attendees. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Testing Mayo Clinic’s New 20/20/20 Risk Model in Another Cohort of Smoldering Myeloma Patients: A Retrospective Study

Camille Tessier

Thomas Allard

Jean-Samuel Boudreault

and

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2029-2039; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030188 - 26 May 2021

Abstract

Background—smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) risk of progression to multiple myeloma (MM) is highly heterogeneous and several models have been suggested to predict this risk. Lakshman et al. recently proposed a model based on three biomarkers: bone marrow plasma cell (BMPC) percentage > 20%, free light chain ratio (FLCr) > 20 and serum M protein > 20 g/L. The goal of our study was to test this “20/20/20” model in our population and to determine if similar results could be obtained in another cohort of SMM patients. Method—we conducted a retrospective, single center study with 89 patients diagnosed with SMM between January 2008 and December 2019. Results—all three tested biomarkers were associated with an increased risk of progression: BMPC percentage ≥ 20% (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.28 [95%C.I., 1.90–9.61]; p < 0.001), serum M protein ≥ 20 g/L (HR: 4.20 [95%C.I., 1.90–15.53]; p = 0.032) and FLCr ≥ 20 (HR: 3.25 [95%C.I., 1.09–9.71]; p = 0.035). The estimated median time to progression (TTP) was not reached for the low and intermediate risk groups and was 29.1 months (95%C.I., 3.9–54.4) in the high-risk group (p = 0.006). Conclusions—the 20/20/20 risk stratification model adequately predicted progression in our population and is easy to use in various clinical settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Hematology)

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Open AccessArticle

Results from a Theory-Guided Survey to Support Breast Cancer Trial Participation: Barriers, Enablers, and What to Do about them

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Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2014-2028; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030187 - 26 May 2021

Abstract

Background: Ensuring adequate, informed, and timely participation in clinical trials is a multifactorial problem. We have previously developed a systematic, tailorable survey development approach that is informed by theory, can identify barriers and enablers to participation, and can suggest recruitment strategies to address these issues. In this study, we surveyed subscribers to the Canadian Breast Cancer Network (CBCN) in order to identify a comprehensive list of theory-informed barriers and enablers relevant to participation in a hypothetical breast cancer trial. Methods: We developed and conducted an online survey of breast cancer patients informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework and designed to determine previous experience with clinical trials, knowledge about clinical trials, and importance of a comprehensive list of barriers and enablers to trial participation. Participants were contacted by email or through social media. Results: From 2451 subscribers of the CBCN, we received 244 responses and 210 completed surveys (244/2451 or 9.9% participation, 210/244 or 86.1% completion). A total of 38% of respondents indicated experience in trial participation, but 83% indicated confidence in their knowledge about clinical trials. Those who had previously participated in clinical trials were more confident in their knowledge (χ²= 6.77, p = 0.009) and answered more knowledge questions (t = −3.90 p = 0.000). Endorsed barriers and enablers to participation included 39 factors across 12 of 14 domains relevant to behaviour change. Our approach identifies barriers that might be meaningfully addressed by careful knowledge provision (‘If I would learn more about my condition’; ‘If I find the trial documents hard to understand’), those that may require other theory-informed approaches to address (‘my feelings about the quality of my drug plan’; ‘my worry over unknown side effects’), and those that may require tailored approaches depending on participant differences such as previous experience in trials (‘If there were patient-friendly decision-making tools to help you make your participation decision’). Discussion: This work demonstrates that a comprehensive, theory-guided survey of barriers and enablers to participation in breast cancer clinical trials is feasible, can lead to detailed knowledge about the issues related to participation in specific trials, and most importantly, can lead to insights about evidence-based ways to better support patient participation. Full article

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Open AccessCommentary

Ethical Considerations in Chemotherapy and Vaccines in Cancer Patients in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Guido V. Schiappacasse

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 2007-2013; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030186 - 26 May 2021

Abstract

The COVID-19 situation is a worldwide health emergency with strong implications in clinical oncology. In this viewpoint, we address two crucial dilemmas from the ethical dimension: (1) Is it ethical to postpone or suspend cancer treatments which offer a statistically significant benefit in quality of life and survival in cancer patients during this time of pandemic?; (2) Should we vaccinate cancer patients against COVID-19 if scientific studies have not included this subgroup of patients? Regarding the first question, the best available evidence applied to the ethical principles of Beauchamp and Childress shows that treatments (such as chemotherapy) with clinical benefit are fair and beneficial. Indeed, the suspension or delay of such treatments should be considered malefic. Regarding the second question, applying the doctrine of double-effect, we show that the potential beneficial effect of vaccines in the population with cancer (or those one that has had cancer) is much higher than the potential adverse effects of these vaccines. In addition, there is no better and less harmful known solution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Oncology)

Open AccessConference Report

Eastern Canadian Gastrointestinal Cancer Consensus Conference 2019

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 1988-2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030185 - 26 May 2021

Abstract

The annual Eastern Canadian Gastrointestinal Cancer Consensus Conference 2019 was held in Morell, Prince Edward Island, 19–21 September 2019. Experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology who are involved in the management of patients with gastrointestinal malignancies participated in presentations and discussion sessions for the purpose of developing the recommendations presented here. This consensus statement addresses multiple topics in the management of anal, colorectal, biliary tract, and gastric cancers, including: radiotherapy and systemic therapy for localized and advanced anal cancer; watch and wait strategy for the management of rectal cancer; role of testing for dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency prior to commencement of fluoropyrimidine therapy; radiotherapy and systemic therapy in the adjuvant and unresectable settings for biliary tract cancer; and radiotherapy and systemic therapy in the perioperative setting for early-stage gastric cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

Open AccessCase Report

An Example of Personalized Treatment in HR+ HER2+ Long Survivor Breast Cancer Patient (Case Report)

Martina Panebianco

Beatrice Taurelli Salimbeni

Michela Roberto

and

Paolo Marchetti

Curr. Oncol. 2021, 28(3), 1980-1987; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol28030184 - 25 May 2021

Abstract

Background. Personalized therapy is becoming increasingly popular in oncological scenarios, not only based on molecular pharmacological targets, but also preventing any drug–drug–gene interaction (DDGI), which could lead to severe toxicities. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the individual germline sequence variations in genes involved in drug metabolism, are correlated to interindividual response to drugs and explain both efficacy and toxicity profiles reported by patients. Case presentation. We present the case of a woman suffering from triple-positive breast cancer; she had early-stage disease at the onset and after four years developed metastatic disease. During her history, she presented different toxicities due to antineoplastic treatments. Particularly, hypertransaminasemia was found during every line of treatment. Nevertheless, we were able to guarantee the patient an excellent therapeutic adhesion thanks to the supportive treatments and the reduction of drug dosage. Moreover, we conducted a simultaneous analysis of the patient’s biochemical and genomic data thanks to Drug-PIN software, and we found several significant SNPs of the main enzymes and transporters involved in drug metabolism. Conclusion. Our case report demonstrated the relevance of DDGI in clinical practice management of a patient treated for advanced breast cancer, suggesting the role of Drug-PIN software as an easy-to-use tool to prevent adverse events during cancer treatment and to help physicians in therapeutic algorithms. However, further studies are needed to confirm these results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Long-Term Effects of Systemic Therapies on Cancer Patients)

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