Journal Description
Current Oncology
Current Oncology
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published 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), the Canadian Association of General Practitioners in Oncology (CAGPO), the Cell Therapy Transplant Canada (CTTC), the Canadian Leukemia Study Group (CLSG) and others are affiliated with the journal and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Oncology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Impact Factor:
2.8 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.9 (2023)
Latest Articles
Outcomes of Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020118 - 18 Feb 2025
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate real-world clinical outcomes and transplant-related complications of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Methods: This was a single-centre, retrospective analysis of relapsed and refractory (R/R) HL patients who received an alloSCT
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Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate real-world clinical outcomes and transplant-related complications of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Methods: This was a single-centre, retrospective analysis of relapsed and refractory (R/R) HL patients who received an alloSCT between 1 January 2016 and 29 February 2024 in Hamilton, Ontario. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). The secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), non-relapse mortality (NRM), and graft-versus-host disease/relapse-free survival (GRFS). Results: Twenty-one patients were identified, with thirteen (62%) pre-treated with programmed death 1 (PD-1) blockade with either nivolumab or pembrolizumab. Seventeen (81%) patients underwent related haploidentical donor transplants, while four (19%) patients received a matched unrelated donor transplant. The 2-year OS and PFS rates were 79% (95% CI: 53–92%) and 63% (95% CI: 37–81%), respectively. Trends towards improved OS, PFS, NRM, and GRFS in PD-1-inhibitor-exposed patients were observed. All PD-1-inhibitor-exposed patients who were in complete remission proceeding to alloSCT remained alive at the last follow-up visit. Among the nine patients in partial remission at the time of alloSCT, three deaths were reported, with a 2-year OS of 61%. Conclusions: Our outcome data of a single-centre, heavily pre-treated cohort of Canadian patients confirm that alloSCT with post-transplant cyclophosphamide-based immunosuppression, which has been associated with improvements in PFS, remains a safe and feasible treatment option for patients with R/R HL in the era of checkpoint inhibitor use.
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(This article belongs to the Section Cell Therapy)
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Open AccessArticle
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Plus Carcinoembryonic Antigen Ratio Index: A Promising Biomarker Associated with Treatment Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Patients with Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases
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Yanjiang Yin, Bowen Xu, Jianping Chang, Zhiyu Li, Xinyu Bi, Zhicheng Wei, Xu Che and Jianqiang Cai
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020117 - 18 Feb 2025
Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) is a significant contributor to cancer-related illness and death. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is an essential treatment approach; however, optimal patient selection remains a challenge. This study aimed to develop a machine learning-based predictive model using hematological biomarkers
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Background: Colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) is a significant contributor to cancer-related illness and death. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is an essential treatment approach; however, optimal patient selection remains a challenge. This study aimed to develop a machine learning-based predictive model using hematological biomarkers to assess the efficacy of NAC in patients with CRLM. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 214 CRLM patients treated with the XELOX regimen. Blood characteristics before and after NAC, as well as the ratios of these biomarkers, were integrated into the machine learning models. Logistic regression, decision trees (DTs), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and AdaBoost were used for predictive modeling. The performance of the models was evaluated using the AUROC, F1-score, and external validation. Results: The DT (AUROC: 0.915, F1-score: 0.621) and RF (AUROC: 0.999, F1-score: 0.857) models demonstrated the best predictive performance in the training cohort. The model incorporating the ratio of post-treatment to pre-treatment gamma-glutamyl transferase (rGGT) and carcinoembryonic antigen (rCEA) formed the GCR index, which achieved an AUROC of 0.853 in the external validation. The GCR index showed strong clinical relevance, predicting better chemotherapy responses in patients with lower rCEA and higher rGGT levels. Conclusions: The GCR index serves as a predictive biomarker for the efficacy of NAC in CRLM, providing a valuable clinical reference for the prognostic assessment of these patients.
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(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)
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Open AccessArticle
MRI in Oral Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Radiomic Approach in the Local Recurrence Evaluation
by
Antonello Vidiri, Vincenzo Dolcetti, Francesco Mazzola, Sonia Lucchese, Francesca Laganaro, Francesca Piludu, Raul Pellini, Renato Covello and Simona Marzi
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020116 - 18 Feb 2025
Abstract
(1) Background: Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) is a prevalent malignancy with high loco-regional recurrence. Advanced imaging biomarkers are critical for stratifying patients at a high risk of recurrence. This study aimed to develop MRI-based radiomic models to predict loco-regional recurrence in
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(1) Background: Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) is a prevalent malignancy with high loco-regional recurrence. Advanced imaging biomarkers are critical for stratifying patients at a high risk of recurrence. This study aimed to develop MRI-based radiomic models to predict loco-regional recurrence in OTSCC patients undergoing surgery. (2) Methods: We retrospectively selected 92 patients with OTSCC who underwent MRI, followed by surgery and cervical lymphadenectomy. A total of 31 patients suffered from a loco-regional recurrence. Radiomic features were extracted from preoperative post-contrast high-resolution MRI and integrated with clinical and pathological data to develop predictive models, including radiomic-only and combined radiomic–clinical approaches, trained and validated with stratified data splitting. (3) Results: Textural features, such as those derived from the Gray-Level Size-Zone Matrix, Gray-Level Dependence Matrix, and Gray-Level Run-Length Matrix, showed significant associations with recurrence. The radiomic-only model achieved an accuracy of 0.79 (95% confidence interval: 0.69, 0.87) and 0.74 (95% CI: 0.54, 0.89) in the training and validation set, respectively. Combined radiomic and clinical models, incorporating features like the pathological depth of invasion and lymph node status, provided comparable diagnostic performances. (4) Conclusions: MRI-based radiomic models demonstrated the potential for predicting loco-regional recurrence, highlighting their increasingly important role in advancing precision oncology for OTSCC.
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(This article belongs to the Section Head and Neck Oncology)
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Open AccessCase Report
Salvage Ultrasound-Guided Robot-Assisted Video-Endoscopic Inguinal Lymphadenectomy (RAVEIL) as a Metastasis-Directed Therapy (MDT) in Oligoprogressive Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC): A Case Report and Review of the Literature
by
Rafał B. Drobot, Marcin Lipa and Artur A. Antoniewicz
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020115 - 18 Feb 2025
Abstract
Background: Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains challenging due to progression despite androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Current treatments, including androgen receptor-targeted agents, chemotherapy, bone-targeted agents, and PARP inhibitors, extend survival but face challenges, such as resistance, adverse effects, and limited durability. Metastasis-directed
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Background: Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains challenging due to progression despite androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Current treatments, including androgen receptor-targeted agents, chemotherapy, bone-targeted agents, and PARP inhibitors, extend survival but face challenges, such as resistance, adverse effects, and limited durability. Metastasis-directed therapies (MDTs), such as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), show promise in oligometastatic disease, but their role in oligoprogressive mCRPC is unclear. Salvage lymphadenectomy is rarely pursued due to invasiveness and limited data. This is the first report of robotic surgery as an MDT in this setting, demonstrating the potential of salvage robot-assisted video-endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (RAVEIL) to manage oligoprogressive mCRPC and delay systemic progression. Methods: A 47-year-old male with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (Gleason 10) underwent ADT, docetaxel chemotherapy, and radical retropubic prostatectomy with super-extended pelvic and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. Upon progression to oligoprogressive mCRPC, 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT detected a single metastatic inguinal lymph node. Salvage RAVEIL was performed using the da Vinci X™ Surgical System, guided by preoperative ultrasound mapping. Results: Histopathology confirmed metastasis in one of the eight excised lymph nodes. The patient achieved undetectable PSA levels and prolonged biochemical progression-free survival. Minor complications (lymphorrhea, cellulitis) resolved without sequelae. No further progression was observed for over 14 months. Conclusions: This case highlights RAVEIL as a viable MDT option for oligoprogressive mCRPC, potentially extending progression-free intervals while minimizing systemic treatment.
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(This article belongs to the Section Genitourinary Oncology)
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Open AccessArticle
TM7SF2 as a Potential Biomarker in Colorectal Cancer: Implications for Metastasis
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Inpyo Hong, Sooyoun Kim, Minho Lee, Seoin Han, Hak Chun Kim, Chong Woo Chu, Seong Geun Kim, Min Kyung Kim, Chang Jin Kim, Dong Hyun Kang, Tae Sung Ahn, Moo Jun Baek, Mudasir Hussain, Hyog Young Kwon and Dongjun Jeong
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020114 - 17 Feb 2025
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a commonly fatal cancer and ranks as the fourth most prevalent in men and third in women worldwide. While early-stage survival rates are high, they significantly decrease with recurrence and metastasis. Thus, the early detection and treatment of metastasis-related
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Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a commonly fatal cancer and ranks as the fourth most prevalent in men and third in women worldwide. While early-stage survival rates are high, they significantly decrease with recurrence and metastasis. Thus, the early detection and treatment of metastasis-related factors can significantly improve survival rates. In this study, the transmembrane 7 superfamily member 2 (TM7SF2) gene was validated as a biomarker for predicting metastasis in CRC. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on 236 CRC tissues, and the clinicopathological factors of patients with CRC were analyzed. This evaluation revealed that TM7SF2 expression is associated with the clinical stage. Kaplan–Meier analysis confirmed the relationship between the survival rate of CRC patients and TM7SF2 expression, showing a decrease in survival rate with TM7SF2 overexpression (log-rank, p < 0.001). TM7SF2 expression was also confirmed in two pairs of primary and metastatic cell lines (SW480 and SW620). TM7SF2 knockdown was executed using siRNAs in SW480 and SW620 cells, which exhibit high expression levels. The knockdown was verified using RT-PCR and immunoblotting. Functional studies investigated the effects of TM7SF2 on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and colony formation, revealing that all these functions were suppressed in the CRC cell lines following TM7SF2 knockdown. Therefore, TM7SF2 shows promise as a biomarker for the prevention of colorectal cancer.
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(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)
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Open AccessReview
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Locoregional Treatments for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
by
Graziella Masciangelo, Davide Campana, Claudio Ricci, Elisa Andrini, Emilija Rakichevikj, Pietro Fusaroli and Andrea Lisotti
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020113 - 16 Feb 2025
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNENs) represent approximately 2% of all solid pancreatic tumors. The incidence of pNENs has been increasing in the last decade. The clinical manifestations of pNENs range from hormone secretion syndromes in functioning neoplasms (F-pNENs) to local infiltration or distant metastases
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Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNENs) represent approximately 2% of all solid pancreatic tumors. The incidence of pNENs has been increasing in the last decade. The clinical manifestations of pNENs range from hormone secretion syndromes in functioning neoplasms (F-pNENs) to local infiltration or distant metastases in late-stage diagnoses or incidental findings in small non-functioning neoplasms (NF-pNENs). While surgery is the gold-standard treatment for larger and more aggressive tumors, small and low-grade tumors (G1) may be followed-up due to the indolent course of disease. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided ablative techniques, such as ethanol injection (EUS-EI) and radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA), have emerged as promising options for loco-regional ablations in selected cases. Despite promising safety profile and efficacy, high-quality evidence is needed to support their widespread adoption. This article reviews the current state of EUS-guided locoregional therapies, patient selection criteria, procedural details, and associated risks.
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(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Immunotherapy Combined with Chemotherapy in the First-Line Treatment of Advanced Gastric Cancer: Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis Based on Specific PD-L1 CPS
by
Wenwei Zhang, Kaibo Guo and Song Zheng
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020112 - 16 Feb 2025
Abstract
Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy as the first-line treatment for advanced gastric cancer. Data Sources: Phase III randomised controlled trials were searched from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials databases, and several
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Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy as the first-line treatment for advanced gastric cancer. Data Sources: Phase III randomised controlled trials were searched from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials databases, and several international conference databases, from inception to 15 November 2024. Results: A total of eight eligible trials involved 7898 patients and eight treatments. The network meta-analysis showed that cadonilimab plus chemotherapy was the most superior treatment in improving overall survival (versus conventional chemotherapy, hazard ratio 0.62, 95% credible interval 0.50 to 0.78) and progression-free survival (0.53, 0.43 to 0.65), and consistency of results were observed in specific PD-L1 combined positive score groups. All immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with chemotherapy improved patient prognosis, but nivolumab plus chemotherapy may lead to an increase in grade 3 or higher adverse events (odds ratio 1.68, 95% credible interval 1.04 to 2.54), and the toxicity of cadonilimab plus chemotherapy was more likely to force patients to discontinue treatment. Conclusions: These results showed that cadonilimab plus chemotherapy had the best overall survival and progression-free survival benefits for advanced gastric cancer patients with HER-2 negative, and was preferentially recommended to patients with positive PD-L1 CPS.
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(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)
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Open AccessArticle
“I Got My Trophy”: The Story of Implementing a Neuro-Oncology Exercise Program from the Patient and Caregiver Lens—A Qualitative Study
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Julia T. Daun, Mannat Bansal, Randall L. Iversen, Meghan H. McDonough, Gloria Roldan Urgoiti, Tana Dhruva, Emma McLaughlin, Lauren C. Capozzi, Jacob C. Easaw, Margaret L. McNeely, George J. Francis and S. Nicole Culos-Reed
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020111 - 16 Feb 2025
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to gather patient and caregiver perspectives of adult neuro-oncology patients participating in a 12-week exercise program (i.e., the Alberta Cancer Exercise-Neuro-Oncology; ACE-Neuro study). Patients and their caregivers were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews across study delivery.
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The purpose of this study was to gather patient and caregiver perspectives of adult neuro-oncology patients participating in a 12-week exercise program (i.e., the Alberta Cancer Exercise-Neuro-Oncology; ACE-Neuro study). Patients and their caregivers were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews across study delivery. A qualitative photo elicitation methodology within a patient-oriented research approach was used. Interpretive description and a constructivist philosophy guided the investigation, analysis, and dissemination of findings. A patient partner was included as a member of the research team. N = 51 patients completed the ACE-Neuro study, of which 28 patients and nine caregivers participated in interviews (n = 37). Working with the patient partner, five themes were created and are presented as a story of neuro-oncology patients on their journey to accessing and participating in ACE-Neuro: (1) The Exposition: I Have Cancer…Now What?; (2) The Rising Action: Trials and Triumphs of Participation; (3) The Pivotal Moment: It’s More Than Exercise; (4) The Resolution: Tailored Not Templated…The Ideal Program for Me; and (5) The Epilogue: Key Factors for Sustained Delivery. The findings from this work address the lack of qualitative exploration for understanding the neuro-oncology exercise experience and will inform the sustainable implementation of programming to meet patients’ needs.
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(This article belongs to the Section Neuro-Oncology)
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Open AccessReview
Perioperative Chemo-Immunotherapy in Non-Oncogene-Addicted Resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Italian Expert Panel Meeting
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Filippo de Marinis, Andrea Ardizzoni, Ilaria Attili, Laura Bonanno, Emilio Bria, Diego Luigi Cortinovis, Stefano Margaritora, Francesca Mazzoni, Edoardo Mercadante, Alessandro Morabito, Francesco Petrella, Federico Rea, Rosario Salvi, Piergiorgio Solli, Lorenzo Spaggiari, Luca Voltolini and Cesare Gridelli
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020110 - 14 Feb 2025
Abstract
Background: Immunotherapy (IO)-based strategies have been demonstrated to significantly prolong survival in the perioperative setting of non-oncogene-addicted non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The adoption of such strategies in clinical practice depends on heterogeneous regulatory approvals and on the agreement between medical oncologists and
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Background: Immunotherapy (IO)-based strategies have been demonstrated to significantly prolong survival in the perioperative setting of non-oncogene-addicted non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The adoption of such strategies in clinical practice depends on heterogeneous regulatory approvals and on the agreement between medical oncologists and thoracic surgeons on patients’ selection. Methods: An Expert Panel Meeting of medical oncologists and thoracic surgeons was held virtually by the Italian Association of Thoracic Oncology (AIOT) to discuss results of pivotal clinical trials with perioperative chemo-immunotherapy and reach agreement on open issues for the topic, formulating specific statements based on initially proposed discussion questions. Results: Overall, panelists found agreement on seven statements. With regard to tissue and biomarker analysis, the role of increasing PD-L1 expression in predicting IO efficacy was recognized, whereas ctDNA and pCR were mainly attributed a prognostic role, in the absence of dedicated studies. The panelists acknowledged direct relationship between the benefit of neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy approaches and the local burden of disease/mediastinal node involvement, supporting the inclusion of these factors, together with PD-L1, in selecting upfront surgery or induction treatment. The panelists agreed that the current literature data do not answer the issue of assessing the role of the adjuvant phase within a perioperative treatment strategy. Surgical considerations on the role of pneumonectomy and other approaches were also discussed. Conclusions: This experience highlights the importance of a synergistic approach between oncologists and surgeons to leverage the unmet needs in translating results of IO-perioperative clinical trials into clinical practice in patients with resectable NSCLC.
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(This article belongs to the Section Thoracic Oncology)
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Open AccessReview
Multimodal Prehabilitation for Gynecologic Cancer Surgery
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Jeongyun Kim, Chae Hyeong Lee and Ga Won Yim
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020109 - 14 Feb 2025
Abstract
Surgical treatment is commonly employed to treat patients with gynecologic cancer, although surgery itself may function as a stressor, reducing the patients’ functional capacity and recovery. Prehabilitation programs attempt to improve patients’ overall health and baseline function prior to surgery, thereby enhancing recovery
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Surgical treatment is commonly employed to treat patients with gynecologic cancer, although surgery itself may function as a stressor, reducing the patients’ functional capacity and recovery. Prehabilitation programs attempt to improve patients’ overall health and baseline function prior to surgery, thereby enhancing recovery and lowering morbidity. In recent years, prehabilitation has come to primarily refer to multimodal programs that combine physical activity, nutritional support, psychological well-being, and other medical interventions. However, the specific methods of implementing prehabilitation and measuring its effectiveness are heterogeneous. Moreover, high-level evidence regarding prehabilitation in gynecologic cancer surgery is limited. This review provides a summary of multimodal prehabilitation studies in gynecologic oncologic surgery. Enhanced postoperative recovery, lower postoperative complications, lower rate of blood transfusions, and faster gastrointestinal functional recovery have been reported after multimodal prehabilitation interventions. Patients and healthcare professionals should recognize the importance of prehabilitation in the field of gynecologic oncologic treatment, based on the emerging evidence. In addition, there is a need to establish an appropriate target group and construct a well-designed and tailored prehabilitation program.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Surgical Management for Gynecologic Cancers)
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Open AccessReview
Evidence-Based Recommendations on the Use of Immunotherapies and Monoclonal Antibodies in the Treatment of Male Reproductive Cancers
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Farhan Khalid, Zubair Hassan Bodla, Sai Rakshith Gaddameedi, Raymart Macaset, Karan Yagnik, Zahra Niaz, Peter N. Fish, Doantrang Du and Shazia Shah
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020108 - 14 Feb 2025
Abstract
The incidence of male reproductive cancers, including prostate, testicular, and penile cancers, has risen in recent years, raising important health concerns. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men, while penile cancer, though rare, typically affects men over 60.
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The incidence of male reproductive cancers, including prostate, testicular, and penile cancers, has risen in recent years, raising important health concerns. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men, while penile cancer, though rare, typically affects men over 60. Testicular cancer, with a lifetime risk of about 0.4% in men, is most common among adolescents and young adults, decreasing sharply after the age of 40. Traditional treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and combinations thereof, but advancements in immunotherapy and monoclonal antibodies are showing promising results, particularly for genitourinary cancers. These therapies, targeting immune checkpoints and tumor-specific antigens, are gaining traction as effective alternatives for resistant cases. This review provides evidence-based recommendations on current and emerging immunotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments for male reproductive cancers, highlighting future directions to optimize patient outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genitourinary Oncology)
Open AccessArticle
Sexual Health of Patients in Treatment for Lung Cancer: An Undercover Concern for Patients and Oncologists
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Mafalda Costa, Catarina Lopes Fernandes, Joana Leite, Marta Vilaça, Fernanda Estevinho and Helena Magalhães
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020107 - 13 Feb 2025
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction (SD) prevalence in lung cancer (LC) patients is largely unknown. This study aims to assess the prevalence of SD among LC patients at our center. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 69 patients using a questionnaire on sexual activity and satisfaction.
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Sexual dysfunction (SD) prevalence in lung cancer (LC) patients is largely unknown. This study aims to assess the prevalence of SD among LC patients at our center. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 69 patients using a questionnaire on sexual activity and satisfaction. Participants were recruited from 1 July 2023 to 30 September 2024 and had to be diagnosed with LC, age > 18 years, able to read, and with at least 1 month of treatment. A total of 61 patients completed the survey, predominantly male (67.2%) with stage IV LC (68.9%). Less than half (45.9%) reported recent sexual activity, while many expressed little to no interest (55.7%) and minimal satisfaction with their sex life (42.8%). The factors affecting sexual satisfaction included fatigue (37.7%) and feelings of anxiety/stress (24.6%). The reasons for decreased sexual activity included a lack of interest (36.4%), difficulties with erection (24.2%), and issues with partners (24.3%). A significant association was found between SD and the perceived impact of LC on sexual life, with higher dysfunction scores linked to more negative reports. SD is common among LC patients. Implementing assessment strategies and interventions may improve the sexual life of these patients.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Palliative and Supportive Care)
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Open AccessReview
Exploring the Role of Hypoxia and HIF-1α in the Intersection of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Endometrial Cancer
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Alagappan V. S. Geetha, Kannan Harithpriya, Kumar Ganesan and Kunka Mohanram Ramkumar
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020106 - 13 Feb 2025
Abstract
Diabetes and Cancer are the most complex chronic diseases, accounting for significant global mortality and morbidity. The association between Type 2 DM (T2DM) and endometrial cancer (EC) is multifaced, sharing numerous risk factors, including insulin resistance, obesity, hypoxia, and oxidative stress. Hypoxia plays
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Diabetes and Cancer are the most complex chronic diseases, accounting for significant global mortality and morbidity. The association between Type 2 DM (T2DM) and endometrial cancer (EC) is multifaced, sharing numerous risk factors, including insulin resistance, obesity, hypoxia, and oxidative stress. Hypoxia plays a vital role in T2DM pathogenesis by altering the insulin level and pancreatic β-cell failure through an imbalance between antioxidant enzymes and cellular oxidative levels, while chronic inflammation contributes to EC malignancy. HIF-1α is a potent transcription factor involved in modulating cellular responses to hypoxia within the disease environment. Targeting the HIF-1α signaling cascade, a major metabolic regulator may contribute to advanced therapeutic advances. This review focuses on the association between T2DM and EC, especially focusing on hypoxia and HIF signaling pathways. These intersect with key pathways involved in T2DM and EC pathology, such as insulin signaling, PI3K/AKT, mTOR pathway, MUC1/HIF-1α pathway, and hormonal imbalance. Understanding this complex relationship paves the way for future researchers to develop HIF-1α-targeted therapies that could lead to novel combination therapies to treat these comorbid conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)
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Open AccessConference Report
Abstracts of the 2024 Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists Annual Scientific Meeting
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Alexi Campbell, Sharlene Gill, Desirée Hao, Suneil Khanna, Erin Powell, Moira Rushton, Maryam Soleimani and Stephen Welch
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020105 - 12 Feb 2025
Abstract
On behalf of the Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists, we are pleased to present the abstracts of the 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting. The CAMO Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) took place from 24–26 October 2024 in an in-person event in Ottawa, ON. Twenty-four (24)
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On behalf of the Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists, we are pleased to present the abstracts of the 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting. The CAMO Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) took place from 24–26 October 2024 in an in-person event in Ottawa, ON. Twenty-four (24) abstracts were selected for presentation as oral presentations and poster presentations. Awards for the top three (3) abstracts were presented during the ASM; they have been marked as “Award Recipient”. We congratulate all presenters on their research work and contribution.
Full article
Open AccessPerspective
Toward an Understanding of Cancer as an Issue of Social Justice: Perspectives and Implications for Oncology Nursing
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Tara C. Horrill, Scott M. Beck and Allison Wiens
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020104 - 12 Feb 2025
Abstract
Within the fields of oncology practice and research, cancer has historically been and continues to be understood as primarily biologically produced and physiologically driven. This understanding is rooted in biomedicine, the dominant model of health and illness in the Western world. Yet, there
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Within the fields of oncology practice and research, cancer has historically been and continues to be understood as primarily biologically produced and physiologically driven. This understanding is rooted in biomedicine, the dominant model of health and illness in the Western world. Yet, there is increasing evidence of inequities in cancer that are influenced by social and structural inequities. In this article, we propose that cancer-related inequities ought to be seen as issues of social justice, and, given nursing’s longstanding commitments to social justice, they ought to be a priority for oncology nurses. Using a social justice lens, we highlight potential social injustices in the form of inequities in cancer outcomes and access to cancer care across the cancer continuum. Our intention is not to provide an exhaustive review of evidence, but to provide our perspective, adding to the dialogue surrounding health equity and cancer while shifting the narrative away from an understanding of cancer inequities as stemming from “lifestyle” and “behavioural” choices. We conclude by exploring the implications of considering cancer inequities as social injustices for nursing practice.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")
Open AccessReview
Management of Peritoneal Metastasis in Patients with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
by
Grace Wu, Oliver J. Standring, Daniel A. King, Sepideh Gholami, Craig E. Devoe, Cornelius A. Thiels, Travis E. Grotz, Matthew J. Weiss, Richard L. Whelan, Mustafa Raoof and Danielle K. DePeralta
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020103 - 12 Feb 2025
Abstract
The peritoneum is the second most common site of metastasis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Up to half of all patients that undergo curative-intent resection eventually develop peritoneal metastasis (PM), which accounts for significant morbidity and drives mortality. Despite recent advances
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The peritoneum is the second most common site of metastasis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Up to half of all patients that undergo curative-intent resection eventually develop peritoneal metastasis (PM), which accounts for significant morbidity and drives mortality. Despite recent advances in management, PM is associated with very poor prognosis, which is often measured in weeks to months. Clinical manifestations including bowel obstruction, ascites, and urinary obstruction have profound impact on quality of life. Even with relatively advanced disease, PM often remains occult on imaging and thus tend to be underdiagnosed and understudied. Many patients with peritoneal-only PM are excluded from clinical trials because response cannot be measured by standard radiographic criteria. Furthermore, as patients with PM are not eligible for surgical resection and low-volume peritoneal disease is often not amenable to percutaneous biopsy, tissue samples for peritoneal-specific translational studies are limited. Intraperitoneal therapeutics have been proposed as an attractive option for PM, as better penetration of tumor tissue can be achieved with less systemic toxicity compared with intravenous chemotherapy. Heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), typically combined with cytoreductive surgery (CRS), is an option for select patients with PM from gynecologic or gastrointestinal primary, and for patients with primary peritoneal mesothelioma. However, the incorporation of locoregional therapy for PM in patients with PDAC has been poorly studied given the aggressive nature of pancreatic cancer and overall poor prognosis. With recent advances in existing treatment options, there may be a subset of patients who may derive benefits from locoregional control with cytoreduction and/or intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Critically, additional work is needed to determine PM-favorable clinical and tumoral predictive biomarkers to identify patients who may benefit from a more aggressive approach. We describe the current state of management of patients with peritoneal metastasis from PDAC and review the available data exploring peritoneal-directed therapy with cytoreductive surgery and/or intraperitoneal chemotherapy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Treatments in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma)
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Open AccessArticle
Leveraging Large Language Models for High-Quality Lay Summaries: Efficacy of ChatGPT-4 with Custom Prompts in a Consecutive Series of Prostate Cancer Manuscripts
by
Emily Rinderknecht, Anna Schmelzer, Anton Kravchuk, Christopher Goßler, Johannes Breyer, Christian Gilfrich, Maximilian Burger, Simon Engelmann, Veronika Saberi, Clemens Kirschner, Dominik von Winning, Roman Mayr, Christian Wülfing, Hendrik Borgmann, Stephan Buse, Maximilian Haas and Matthias May
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020102 - 11 Feb 2025
Abstract
Clear and accessible lay summaries are essential for enhancing the public understanding of scientific knowledge. This study aimed to evaluate whether ChatGPT-4 can generate high-quality lay summaries that are both accurate and comprehensible for prostate cancer research in Current Oncology. To achieve
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Clear and accessible lay summaries are essential for enhancing the public understanding of scientific knowledge. This study aimed to evaluate whether ChatGPT-4 can generate high-quality lay summaries that are both accurate and comprehensible for prostate cancer research in Current Oncology. To achieve this, it systematically assessed ChatGPT-4’s ability to summarize 80 prostate cancer articles published in the journal between July 2022 and June 2024 using two distinct prompt designs: a basic “simple” prompt and an enhanced “extended” prompt. Readability was assessed using established metrics, including the Flesch–Kincaid Reading Ease (FKRE), while content quality was evaluated with a 5-point Likert scale for alignment with source material. The extended prompt demonstrated significantly higher readability (median FKRE: 40.9 vs. 29.1, p < 0.001), better alignment with quality thresholds (86.2% vs. 47.5%, p < 0.001), and reduced the required reading level, making content more accessible. Both prompt designs produced content with high comprehensiveness (median Likert score: 5). This study highlights the critical role of tailored prompt engineering in optimizing large language models (LLMs) for medical communication. Limitations include the exclusive focus on prostate cancer, the use of predefined prompts without iterative refinement, and the absence of a direct comparison with human-crafted summaries. These findings underscore the transformative potential of LLMs like ChatGPT-4 to streamline the creation of lay summaries, reduce researchers’ workload, and enhance public engagement. Future research should explore prompt variability, incorporate patient feedback, and extend applications across broader medical domains.
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(This article belongs to the Section Genitourinary Oncology)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
The Requirements for Setting Up a Dedicated Structure for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer—A Systematic Review
by
Lukas Rudolf von Rohr, Nadja Battanta, Cornelia Vetter, Katrin Scheinemann and Maria Otth
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020101 - 11 Feb 2025
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults (AYAs), often defined as those aged 15–39 years, face unique challenges in oncology that are often unmet by conventional care models. This systematic review examines evidence on establishing dedicated AYA oncology units, focusing on logistical, infrastructural, and personnel-related recommendations.
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Adolescents and young adults (AYAs), often defined as those aged 15–39 years, face unique challenges in oncology that are often unmet by conventional care models. This systematic review examines evidence on establishing dedicated AYA oncology units, focusing on logistical, infrastructural, and personnel-related recommendations. A PRISMA-guided search of PubMed (2000–2024) identified seven studies that emphasized early stakeholder involvement and collaboration between pediatric and adult oncology teams to ensure comprehensive care. Multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) of oncologists, nurses, and psychosocial support staff were highlighted as essential to address AYA patients’ diverse needs. Care models varied, with some advocating consultation-based services and others supporting dedicated units. Priorities included increasing clinical trial enrollment, fertility counseling, and creating environments attuned to AYA patients’ social and psychological needs. Key barriers included limited funding, institutional resistance, and inadequate pediatric/adult team collaboration. Despite progress, the lack of standardized guidelines and long-term data on AYA unit efficacy remains a challenge. Further research is required to develop outcome metrics, refine care models, and enhance survival and quality of life for AYA cancer patients.
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(This article belongs to the Section Childhood, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology)
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Open AccessArticle
Trends in Kampo Medicine Usage as Supportive Care During Anticancer Drug Treatment in Japanese Patients: A Nationwide Cohort Analysis from Fiscal Years 2015 to 2021
by
Hiroaki Ohta and Takeo Yasu
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020100 - 10 Feb 2025
Abstract
The adverse effects of anticancer drugs significantly impact the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy, necessitating evidence-based supportive therapies. In Japan, Kampo medicines, traditional Japanese herbal therapies used for relief of various symptoms, have been widely used as complementary and alternative treatments
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The adverse effects of anticancer drugs significantly impact the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy, necessitating evidence-based supportive therapies. In Japan, Kampo medicines, traditional Japanese herbal therapies used for relief of various symptoms, have been widely used as complementary and alternative treatments for cancer, despite limited evidence regarding their efficacy and safety. Thus, we investigated the actual use of Kampo medicines as supportive care in patients undergoing anticancer drug treatment and evaluated the trends in prescription according to year. We analyzed 89,141 cancer drug therapy cases registered in the Japan Medical Data Center database between April 2014 and July 2022, excluding those with a history of Kampo medicine prescriptions before the first prescription of antineoplastic drugs. We assessed the trends in prescription according to sex, age group (<50, 50–74, and ≥75 years), and cancer type subgroup using the Cochran–Armitage trend test. Approximately 23.7% of patients were prescribed Kampo medicines during anticancer drug treatment. Since 2014, a decrease in the prescription of Kampo medicines during anticancer treatment has been observed regardless of sex, age, or cancer type. These findings suggest that recent negative reports on the efficacy and safety of Kampo medicines in cancer care may have influenced this trend.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Palliative Care and Supportive Medicine in Cancer)
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Open AccessArticle
Compartmentalization of High Infratemporal Fossa in Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinomas and Its Impact on Clinical Outcome
by
Abhishek Mahajan, Ujjwal Agarwal, Renuka M. Ashtekar, Nivedita Chakrabarty, Richa Vaish, Vijay Maruti Patil, Vanita Noronha, Nandini Menon, Vasundhara Smriti, Jai Prakash Agarwal, Sarbani Ghosh-Laskar, Anil K. D’Cruz, Pankaj Chaturvedi, Prathamesh Pai, Asawari Patil, Munita Bal, Swapnil Rane, Neha Mittal and Kumar Prabhash
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020099 - 10 Feb 2025
Abstract
Background: According to the 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), involvement of the masticator space and infratemporal fossa (ITF) in oral cancers indicates advanced disease (T4b), which is often considered unresectable. Previous studies have shown that the extent of
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Background: According to the 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), involvement of the masticator space and infratemporal fossa (ITF) in oral cancers indicates advanced disease (T4b), which is often considered unresectable. Previous studies have shown that the extent of ITF involvement influences management and outcomes. Therefore, to optimize management, T4b disease should be subclassified based on ITF involvement. Notably, infranotch disease has a more favorable prognosis compared to supranotch disease. Our study also observed that certain subsets of high anterior retroantral ITF involvement may be operable with favorable clinical outcomes. This study aims to derive a new image-based compartmentalization of high ITF involvement and assess its impact on the management and outcomes of oral head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients with high ITF involvement. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study included 154 non-metastatic, upfront unresectable locally advanced HNSCC patients who were fit for induction neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). ITF involvement was classified into distinct compartments, and detailed staging of the primary tumor (T) and regional nodes (Ns) was performed. Clinical data, including patient demographics, treatment received, and follow-up notes, were documented. Prognosis was assessed using survival metrics: event-free survival (EFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). The ITF was categorized into the following compartments: compartment 1 (low ITF: medial pterygoid), compartment 2 (anterior high ITF: retroantral fat), compartment 3 (posterior high ITF), including 3a (paramandibular compartment: paramandibular fat/temporalis), 3b (muscle compartment: lateral pterygoid), and 3c (Perineural compartment: pterygopalatine fossa and pterygomaxillary fissure). Results: Of the 154 cases, 142 (92%) were classified as T4b, with 63 (40.9%) having high ITF involvement and 79 (55.6%) having low ITF involvement. Twelve cases had T4a disease, which was deemed unresectable due to extensive nodal involvement. Subcompartmentalization of the 63 high ITF cases revealed 26 (41.2%) with compartment 2 involvement, 17 (26.9%) with compartment 3a involvement, 11 (17.4%) with compartment 3b involvement, and 9 (14%) with compartment 3c involvement. Disease progression following NACT was significantly higher in compartment 3c, which showed a poor response (p = 0.007). Univariate analysis for PFS revealed similar outcomes for compartments 1 and 2 (p = 0.692), while compartment 3 demonstrated poorer outcomes (p = 0.033). Among thosehigh ITF involvement, compartment 3c had the worst PFS outcome (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Baseline imaging plays a critical role in guiding individualized treatment and predicting clinical outcomes. Low ITF involvement and disease limited to the high retroantral fat compartment exhibit similar clinical outcomes. Among the posterior high ITF compartments, involvement of the pterygopalatine fossa and pterygomaxillary fissure (compartment 3c) is associated with the worst prognosis and poor response to chemotherapy. Subcompartmentalization of ITF involvement provides valuable prognostic information to tailor treatment strategies.
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(This article belongs to the Section Head and Neck Oncology)
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