Cancer Research and Treatment

Normal Brain-Sparing Radiotherapy versus Whole Brain Radiotherapy for Multiple Brain Metastasis from Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Sangjoon Park, Jaeho Cho, Kyung Hwan Kim, Hong In Yoon, Chang Geol Lee; Received July 23, 2024 Accepted December 2, 2024 Published online December 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.679 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
The efficacy and lower neurotoxicity of normal brain-sparing radiotherapy (NBS-RT) with systemic therapy in treating multiple brain metastases from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is underexplored. This study compares whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and NBS-RT for multiple brain metastases in NSCLC, focusing on treatment outcomes and leukoencephalopathy.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study included 503 patients with NSCLC with multiple brain metastases at a single center, treated with either WBRT or NBS-RT. Post-RT treatments included chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Main outcomes measured were intracranial control, overall survival (OS), and leukoencephalopathy incidence.
Results
In this study, 441 patients received WBRT and 62 received NBS-RT, with median ages of 62 and 61 years, respectively. A significant portion of both groups, 77.3% in WBRT and 80.6% in NBS-RT, received post-RT systemic therapy. The median number of brain metastases was 10 for WBRT and 12 for NBS-RT, with median maximal diameters of 11.7 mm in WBRT and 14.4 mm in NBS-RT. After a median follow-up of 10.9 months for WBRT and 11.8 months for NBS-RT, there were no significant differences in intracranial progression (p=0.516) or OS (p=0.492) between the groups. However, WBRT patients had a higher incidence of leukoencephalopathy than NBS-RT patients (p=0.013).
Conclusion
NBS-RT combined with systemic therapy was as effective in treating multiple brain metastases as WBRT and was less toxic. NBS-RT-based strategies deserve further investigation in a prospective setting.

103 View
6 Download

The Era of Antibody Drug Conjugates in Lung Cancer: Trick or Threat?: Mariona Riudavets, David Planchard; Received July 26, 2024 Accepted November 27, 2024 Published online November 28, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.714 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) are a novel class of therapeutics that structurally are composed by an antibody directed to a tumour epitope connected via a linker to a cytotoxic payload, and that have shown significant antitumor activity across a range of malignancies including lung cancer. In this article we review the pharmacology and design of ADCs, as well as we describe the results of different studies evaluating ADCs in lung cancer directed to several targets including HER2, HER3, TROP2, MET, CEACAM5 and DLL3, among others.

2,980 View
32 Download

Evaluating the Effects of Mindfulness-Based Self-Help via an OTT Platform on Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Prospective Non-Randomized Controlled Trial: Hyejo Ryu, Si Nae You, Sohee Oh, Bora Kim, Jeong-Hyun Kim, In Ah Kim; Received October 1, 2024 Accepted November 20, 2024 Published online November 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.955 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Previous research showed the benefits of mindfulness meditation on the mental health and quality of life of breast cancer patients. Traditionally, these programs relied on in-person interactions, but the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated alternative delivery methods. This study evaluated the effectiveness and feasibility of a mindfulness-based self-help (MBSH) program via Netflix for breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
Materials and Methods
This prospective non-randomized controlled study assigned patients to a control or MBSH group based on age and preference. The MBSH group watched episodes of "Headspace Guide to Meditation" on Netflix and practiced guided meditation at least twice per week for four weeks. Participants completed questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, mindfulness, mental adjustment to cancer, and quality of life at weeks 0 and 8. Data were analyzed using a two-way repeated measures ANOVA.
Results
Ninety-six patients participated, with 84 eligible for final analysis (44 control, 40 MBSH). Intention-to-treat analysis revealed a significant improvement in depression (f=4.306, p=0.041). Half of the experimental group (n = 20) adhered to the study protocol. At week 8, the experimental group showed significant improvement compared to the control group in cognitive avoidance (f=8.530, p=0.005) and positive attitude (f=5.585, p=0.021), both indicative of adaptive coping strategies.
Conclusion
This study firstly investigated the effect and feasibility of a Netflix-based MBSH program for breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Findings suggest MBSH on Netflix can improve mental health and adaptive mental adjustment, highlighting the potential of self-help mindfulness interventions to enhance the well-being of cancer patients and need for further research.

208 View
14 Download

Association of Pro-inflammatory Cytokines with Gastric Cancer Risk: A Case-Cohort Study: Seungju Baek, Eunjung Park, Eun Young Park; Received July 29, 2024 Accepted November 18, 2024 Published online November 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.718 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study aimed to assess the association between inflammatory cytokines and the risk of gastric cancer (GC).
Materials and Methods
We conducted a case-cohort study using Korean National Cancer Center Community (KNCCC) cohort data to investigate the associations between pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and GC risk in the Korean general population (GC cases: n=159, subcohort: n=822). Serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were measured using Quantikine® ELISA and analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards regression model.
Results
Compared to those with the lowest serum interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels, the risk of GC significantly increased in the second (HR: 3.48 [1.73-6.99]), third (HR: 3.74 [1.91-7.29], and fourth quartiles (HR: 3.79 [1.93-7.48]). Elevated levels of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) (HR: 1.57 [1.12-2.21]) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) (HR: 2.49 [1.73-3.58]) were also associated with an increased risk of GC.
Conclusion
The findings of this study indicate associations between pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ) and the risk of GC, suggesting that regulating these cytokine levels may aid in GC prevention.

201 View
20 Download

Estimation of Population Attributable Fraction by Hormone and Reproductive Factors on Female Cancer in the Republic of Korea, 2015 to 2030: Youjin Hong, Soseul Sung, Woojin Lim, Sungji Moon, Kwang-Pil Ko, Jung Eun Lee, Inah Kim, Sun Ha Jee, Sun-Seog Kweon, Min-Ho Shin, Sangmin Park, Seung-Ho Ryu, Sun Young Yang, Jeongseon Kim, Sang-Wook Yi, Yoon-Jung Choi, Jeong-Soo Im, Hong Gwan Seo, Sue K. Park; Received July 26, 2024 Accepted November 18, 2024 Published online November 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.707 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Population attributable fractions (PAFs) for hormone and reproductive factors have been estimated in several countries. IARC designated as Group 1 and Group 2A carcinogen for hormone factors in breast, ovarian, endometrial and uterine cervix cancer. This study aimed to estimate the PAFs of hormone/reproductive factor attributed to cancer incidence and deaths in Korean women and projected trends from 2015 to 2030.
Materials and Methods
The PAF was estimated with using the 2005 standardized prevalence rates and 2020 incidence and deaths with a 15-year latency. Based on the Levin’s formula, prevalence rates were calculated using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) and the relative risks (RRs), which were the risk of selected female cancer associated with oral contraceptive, hormone replacement therapy and duration of breastfeeding, were estimated from the meta-analysis of studies performed in Korean women population. Studies based on the Asian and Global populations were calculated as a sensitivity analysis.
Results
The estimation PAFs for hormone was 1.02% with 1,192 cases and reproductive was 2.67% with 3,112 cases. Moreover, 0.40% (125 deaths) and 1.09% (342 deaths) in female-related cancer deaths in order. EP combined HRT accounted the most proportion in hormone factors and breastfeeding in reproductive factors. Also, the breast cancer had the highest percent in both hormone and reproductive factors.
Conclusion
Through this study, 1.02% and 2.67% of female-related cancer incidence will be reduced by encouraging avoiding the use of oral contraceptives (OCs) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and breastfeeding for more than 6 months in reproductive factors. Additionally, among four selected female cancers in this study, breast cancer was observed to be a significant level of prevention.

269 View
23 Download

Time-Trend Analysis and Risk Factors for Niraparib-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Ovarian Cancer: A Prospective Study: Young Wook Jeong, Dongkyu Eugene Kim, Ji Hyun Kim, Se Ik Kim, Hyeong In Ha, Sang-Yoon Park, Myong Cheol Lim; Received September 14, 2024 Accepted November 2, 2024 Published online November 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.899 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Nausea and vomiting are major non-hematological adverse events associated with niraparib maintenance therapy. This study aimed to investigate the time-trend patterns of niraparib-induced nausea and vomiting (NINV) and the associated risk factors in patients with ovarian cancer.
Materials and Methods
In this prospective study, we enrolled patients with stage III–IV epithelial ovarian cancer who received niraparib as frontline maintenance therapy. The clinicopathological characteristics and time-trend patterns of patients with NINV were collected through in-person surveys and electronic medical records from the National Cancer Center.
Results
Of 53 patients, 50 (94.3%) were diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma. BRCA mutations and homologous recombination deﬁciency (HRD) were identified in 23 (43.4%) and 32 (60.4%) patients, respectively. Thirty-one patients (58.5%) had NINV. Time-trend analyses revealed that the first peak intensity of NINV was reached at 3 h post-dose, and the second peak intensity was reached at 11 h post-dose. NINV significantly decreased from week 1 to weeks 8 and 12. In multivariate analyses of risk factors for NINV, HRD-positive tumors (p<0.001) and prior experience of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (p=0.004) were associated with the occurrence of NINV.
Conclusion
Pre-emptive treatment with antiemetics are required to manage early-phase NINV during niraparib maintenance therapy in patients with risk factors. Additional larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and to develop optimal preventive strategies for NINV.

421 View
83 Download

Kinect-Based Mixed Reality Exercise Program Improves Physical Function and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Clinical Trial: Byunggul Lim, Xinxing Li, Yunho Sung, Parivash Jamrasi, SoYoung Ahn, Hyejung Shin, Wook Song; Received August 8, 2024 Accepted October 28, 2024 Published online October 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.758 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Exercise is an effective non-pharmacological approach for alleviating treatment-related adverse effects and enhancing physical fitness in breast cancer survivors. A Kinect-based mixed reality device (KMR), with real-time feedback and user data collection, is an innovative exercise intervention for breast cancer survivors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of KMR exercise program on quality of life (QOL) and physical function in breast cancer survivors.
Materials and Methods
Seventy-seven participants were randomly assigned to either the KMR exercise group or home stretching group with an 8-week intervention. Physical function (shoulder range of motion [ROM], body composition, aerobic capacity, and hand grip strength) was evaluated before and after the intervention period. Participants completed questionnaires such as the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to assess upper extremity disabilities, QOL, and physical activity levels.
Results
Significant group-by-time interaction was found for flexion of the operated arm (154.3±12.5 to 165.8±11.2), and the non-operated arm (158.2±13.8 to 166.5±12.2), abduction of the non-operated arm (154.8±31.6 to 161.1±28.1), and adduction of the operated arm (46.5±9.1 to 52.6±7.2). Significant improvements were also observed in DASH (46.8±9.1 to 40.8±9.3) and IPAQ (1136.3±612.8 to 1287±664.1).
Conclusion
The KMR exercise program effectively improved the physical function, alleviated edema, reduced upper extremity disability, and enhanced the QOL in breast cancer survivors. Coupled with significant group-by-time interactions for various outcomes, the results emphasize the potential benefits of incorporating the KMR exercise program to improve the QOL in breast cancer survivors.

319 View
40 Download

Determinants of Prostate Cancer Screening in Korean Men: A Nationwide Study Using the Korean National Cancer Screening Survey 2023: Giap Viet Nguyen, Kyeongmin Lee, Hyeon Ji Lee, EunKyo Kang, Mina Suh, Jae Kwan Jun, Kui Son Choi; Received September 8, 2024 Accepted October 28, 2024 Published online October 29, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.879 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Research on the prevalence of prostate cancer (PCa) screening and reasons for undergoing screening is limited. We aimed to identify the factors influencing PCa screening behavior and explore the underlying motivations among Korean men.
Materials and Methods
This cross-sectional study used data from the 2023 Korean National Cancer Screening Survey, which employs a nationally representative random sampling method. This study included 1,784 men aged 40-74 years. The respondents reported their experiences with PCa screening. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the factors associated with participation in PCa screening.
Results
The lifetime PCa screening rate was 18.6%. Among screening modalities, transrectal ultrasonography was the most frequently used (31.9%), followed by prostate-specific antigen tests (25.6%) and digital rectal examinations (21.5%). The multivariable analysis identified several factors that significantly increased the likelihood of screening participation, including older age, living with a spouse, poor self-reported health, and abstinence from alcohol consumption in the previous 12 months. Men who had undergone colorectal cancer screening were more likely to participate in PCa screening (adjusted odds ratio, 4.01; 95% confidence interval, 2.03–7.93) than those who had not. The primary motivations for screening were recommendations from family or social networks (31.9%) and inclusion in health examination packages (24.3%), whereas healthcare provider recommendations (18%) and symptomatic concerns (5.7%) were the least influential.
Conclusion
Our findings highlight the importance of providing evidence-based information for PCa screening recommendations and the need for improved communication and implementation of a shared decision-making approach for PCa screening in Korea.

182 View
20 Download

Association between Tumor Size at the Time of Disease Progression and Survival Outcomes: Chi Hoon Maeng, Bum Jun Kim, Myung-Ju Ahn, In Sil Choi, Dae Young Zang, Bo-Hyung Kim, Minji Kwon, Dae Seog Heo, Bhumsuk Keam; Received July 24, 2024 Accepted October 20, 2024 Published online October 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.690 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study evaluates the prognostic significance of tumor size at disease progression (PD) and depth of response (DOR) in cancer patients.
Materials and Methods
We performed post hoc analysis using data from six prospective clinical trials conducted by the Korean Cancer Study Group. Patients with tumor size at PD was categorized into ‘Mild PD’ and ‘Significant PD’ based on the cutoff values of relative change from baseline using maximally selected rank statistics. The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared between PD and DOR categories.
Results
Among the 194 evaluable patients, 130 experienced PD. A 35.48% decrease from baseline in tumor size at PD was chosen for the cutoff between mild and significant PD for OS (mild PD: tumor size from the baseline ≤ −35.48%; significant PD > −35.48%). The mild PD had superior OS compared to the significant PD (25.8 vs. 12.8 months; Hazard ratio [HR] 0.47, 95% CI 0.266-0.843, p=0.009). When using an exploratory cutoff based on whether the tumor size was below vs. exceeded from the baseline (mild PD: tumor size from the baseline ≤ 0%; significant PD > 0%), OS remained significantly longer in the mild PD (17.1 vs. 11.8 months; HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.392-0.932, p=0.021). The greatest DOR was associated with the longest OS and PFS (p<0.001 for both).
Conclusion
Tumor size at PD and DOR were significant prognostic factors for progressive disease. Maintaining a sufficiently reduced tumor size even during PD was associated with better survival outcomes.

224 View
17 Download

Harnessing Institutionally Developed Clinical Targeted Sequencing to Improve Patient Survival in Breast Cancer: A Seven-Year Experience: Jiwon Koh, Jinyong Kim, Go-Un Woo, Hanbaek Yi, So Yean Kwon, Jeongmin Seo, Jeong Mo Bae, Jung Ho Kim, Jae Kyung Won, Han Suk Ryu, Yoon Kyung Jeon, Dae-Won Lee, Miso Kim, Tae-Yong Kim, Kyung-Hun Lee, Tae-You Kim, Jee-Soo Lee, Moon-Woo Seong, Sheehyun Kim, Sungyoung Lee, Hongseok Yun, Myung Geun Song, Jaeyong Choi, Jong-Il Kim, Seock-Ah Im; Received March 23, 2024 Accepted August 18, 2024 Published online August 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.296 [Accepted]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
Considering the high disease burden and unique features of Asian patients with breast cancer (BC), it is essential to have a comprehensive view of genetic characteristics in this population. An institutional targeted sequencing platform was developed through the Korea Research-Driven Hospitals project and was incorporated into clinical practice. This study explores the use of targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) and its outcomes in patients with advanced/metastatic BC in the real world.
Materials and Methods
We reviewed the results of NGS tests administered to BC patients using a customized sequencing platform – FiRST Cancer Panel (FCP) – over seven years. We systematically described clinical translation of FCP for precise diagnostics, personalized therapeutic strategies, and unraveling disease pathogenesis.
Results
NGS tests were conducted on 548 samples from 522 patients with BC. 97.6% of tested samples harbored at least one pathogenic alteration. The common alterations included mutations in TP53(56.2%), PIK3CA(31.2%), GATA3(13.8%), BRCA2(10.2%), and amplifications of CCND1(10.8%), FGF19(10.0%), and ERBB2(9.5%). NGS analysis of ERBB2 amplification correlated well with HER2 immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. RNA panel analyses found potentially actionable and prognostic fusion genes. FCP effectively screened for potentially germline pathogenic/likely pathogenic mutation. 10.3% of BC patients received matched therapy guided by NGS, resulting in a significant overall survival advantage (p=0.022), especially for metastatic BCs.
Conclusion
Clinical NGS provided multifaceted benefits, deepening our understanding of the disease, improving diagnostic precision, and paving the way for targeted therapies. The concrete advantages of FCP highlight the importance of multi-gene testing for BC, especially for metastatic conditions.

585 View
64 Download

The Oncogenic Role of TNFRSF12A in Colorectal Cancer and Pan-Cancer Bioinformatics Analysis: Chuyue Wang, Yingying Zhao, You Chen, Ying Shi, Zhiying Yang, Weili Wu, Rui Ma, Bo Wang, Yifeng Sun, Ping Yuan; Received April 26, 2024 Accepted August 2, 2024 Published online August 9, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.408 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
Cancer has become a significant major public health concern, making the discovery of new cancer markers or therapeutic targets exceptionally important. Elevated expression of tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 12A (TNFRSF12A) expression has been observed in certain types of cancer. This project aims to investigate the function of TNFRSF12A in tumors and the underlying mechanisms.
Materials and Methods
Various websites were utilized for conducting the bioinformatics analysis. Tumor cell lines with stable knockdown or overexpression of TNFRSF12A were established for cell phenotyping experiments and subcutaneous tumorigenesis in BALB/c mice. RNA-seq was employed to investigate the mechanism of TNFRSF12A.
Results
TNFRSF12A was upregulated in the majority of cancers and associated with a poor prognosis. Knockdown TNFRSF12A hindered the colorectal cancer progression, while overexpression facilitated malignancy both in vitro and in vivo. TNFRSF12A overexpression led to increased nuclear factor кB (NF-κB) signaling and significant upregulation of baculoviral IAP repeat containing 3 (BIRC3), a transcription target of the NF-κB member RELA, and it was experimentally confirmed to be a critical downstream factor of TNFRSF12A. Therefore, we speculated the existence of a TNFRSF12A/RELA/BIRC3 regulatory axis in colorectal cancer.
Conclusion
TNFRSF12A is upregulated in various cancer types and associated with a poor prognosis. In colorectal cancer, elevated TNFRSF12A expression promotes tumor growth, potentially through the TNFRSF12A/RELA/BIRC3 regulatory axis.

531 View
99 Download

Association of TP53 Mutation Status and Sex with Clinical Outcome in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Retrospective Cohort Study: Songji Choi, Se Hyun Kim, Sejoon Lee, Jeongmin Seo, Minsu Kang, Eun Hee Jung, Sang-A Kim, Koung Jin Suh, Ji Yun Lee, Ji-Won Kim, Jin Won Kim, Jeong-Ok Lee, Yu Jung Kim, Keun-Wook Lee, Jee Hyun Kim, Soo-Mee Bang, Jong Seok Lee; Received January 15, 2024 Accepted August 6, 2024 Published online August 7, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.046 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
Some studies suggest that TP53 mutations are associated with the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and also contribute to sex disparities in several cancers. Thus, we hypothesized that TP53 mutations might serve as sex-dependent genomic biomarkers of ICI treatment response in patients with NSCLC.
Materials and Methods
Clinical data of 100 patients with metastatic NSCLC treated with ICI monotherapy at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH) were retrospectively reviewed. Genomic and clinical datasets of The Cancer Genome Atlas and an ICI-treated lung cancer cohort (cBioPortal) were also analyzed.
Results
In SNUBH cohort, no statistically significant difference was observed in the median progression-free survival (PFS) according to TP53 mutation status (p=0.930); however, female patients with TP53 mutations (MT) had a significantly prolonged median PFS compared to wild-type (WT) (6.1 months in TP53 MT vs. 2.6 months in TP53 WT; p=0.021). Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) high (≥ 50%) expression was significantly enriched in female patients with TP53 MT (p=0.005). The analysis from publicly available dataset also revealed that females with NSCLC with TP53 MT showed significantly longer PFS than those with TP53 WT (p < 0.001). In TCGA analysis, expression of immune-related genes, and tumor mutation burden score in TP53 MT females were higher than in males without TP53 MT.
Conclusion
Female patients with NSCLC with TP53 mutations had high PD-L1 expression and showed favorable clinical outcomes following ICI therapy, suggesting a need for further research to explore the role of TP53 mutations for sex disparities in response to ICI therapy.

532 View
58 Download

Trends in Cancer-Screening Rates in Korea: Findings from the National Cancer Screening Survey, 2004-2023: EunKyo Kang, Kui Son Choi, Jae Kwan Jun, Yeol Kim, Hyeon Ji Lee, Chang Kyun Choi, Tae Hee Kim, Sun Hwa Lee, Mina Suh; Received March 31, 2024 Accepted August 1, 2024 Published online August 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.325 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
This study aimed to report the overall national trends in the rates of cancer screening based on recommendations and provide insights into the changing trends of these rates across different demographics.
Materials and Methods
This study used data from the Korean National Cancer Screening Survey (KNCSS), which surveys nationwide cancer-screening rates and includes 4,500 individuals meeting the Korean National Cancer Screening Program (NCSP) protocol age criteria. Cancer-screening rates were assessed using structured questionnaires; yearly trends were analyzed for both lifetime cancer-screening rates and rates of screening based on recommendations, and subgroup analyses were performed based on age and sex.
Results
The rates of cancer screening based on recommendations showed significant increments: the stomach cancer-screening rate increased from 39.2% in 2004 to 77.5% in 2023 (3.50% per year), the liver cancer-screening rate increased from 20.0% to 48.8% (4.30% per year), and the colorectal cancer, increased from 19.9% to 70.7% (5.15% per year). The breast cancer-screening rate increased from 33.2% to 72.7% (2.88% per year), and the cervical cancer, increased from 58.3% to 70.2% (1.08% per year). Despite some differences, particularly in relation to sociodemographic factors, screening rates increased significantly for all cancer types.
Conclusion
Cancer-screening rates in Korea increased consistently from 2004 to 2023, demonstrating the effectiveness of the national cancer-screening program. However, the increments in breast, cervical and lung cancer-screening rates were relatively lower, indicating the need for additional efforts and strategies.

569 View
69 Download

Fecal Microbial Dysbiosis Is Associated with Colorectal Cancer Risk in a Korean Population: Jeongseon Kim, Madhawa Gunathilake, Hyun Yang Yeo, Jae Hwan Oh, Byung Chang Kim, Nayoung Han, Bun Kim, Hyojin Pyun, Mi Young Lim, Young-Do Nam, Hee Jin Chang; Received April 18, 2024 Accepted July 25, 2024 Published online July 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.382 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
The association between the fecal microbiota and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk has been suggested in epidemiologic studies. However, data from large-scale population-based studies are lacking.
Materials and Methods
In this case-control study, we recruited 283 CRC patients from the Center for Colorectal Cancer, National Cancer Center Hospital, Korea to perform 16S rRNA gene sequencing of fecal samples. A total of 283 age- and sex-matched healthy participants were selected from 890 cohort of healthy Koreans that are publicly available (PRJEB33905). The microbial dysbiosis index (MDI) was calculated based on the differentially abundant species. The association between MDI and CRC risk was observed using conditional logistic regression. Sparse Canonical Correlation Analysis was performed to integrate species data with microbial pathways obtained by PICRUSt2.
Results
There is a significant divergence of the microbial composition between CRC patients and controls (permutational multivariate analysis of variance p=0.001). Those who were in third tertile of the MDI showed a significantly increased risk of CRC in the total population (odds ratio [OR], 6.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.98 to 12.06; p-trend < 0.001) compared to those in the lowest tertile. Similar results were found for men (OR, 6.28; 95% CI, 3.04 to 12.98; p-trend < 0.001) and women (OR, 7.39; 95% CI, 3.10 to 17.63; p-trend < 0.001). Bacteroides coprocola and Bacteroides plebeius species and 12 metabolic pathways were interrelated in healthy controls that explain 91% covariation across samples.
Conclusion
Dysbiosis in the fecal microbiota may be associated with an increased risk of CRC. Due to the potentially modifiable nature of the gut microbiota, our findings may have implications for CRC prevention among Koreans.

664 View
152 Download

Salvage Radiotherapy for Loco-regional Recurrence of Esophageal Cancer Following Surgery: Won Kyung Cho, Jae Myoung Noh, Dongryul Oh, Yong Chan Ahn, Jong-Mu Sun, Hong Kwan Kim, Young Mog Shim; Received February 22, 2024 Accepted July 25, 2024 Published online July 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.191 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
There is few evidence regarding the optimal salvage treatment options for loco-reginal recurrence of esophageal cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of salvage radiotherapy (RT) in patients with loco-regional recurrence (LRR) after surgery for esophageal cancer.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 147 esophageal cancer patients who received salvage RT for loco-regional recurrence between 1996 and December 2019. A total dose of 60 Gy in 20 fractions was used for RT alone and 60-70 Gy in 30-35 fractions for concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT).
Results
The patients’ median age was 65 (41-86). The median disease-free interval (DFI) was 13.5 months (1.0 to 97.4 months). After a median 18.8 months follow-up, the 2-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 38.1% and 25.9%, respectively. The median OS and PFS were 18.8 and 8.4 months, respectively. The CCRT could not improve OS compared to RT (p=0.336), but there was a trend of better PFS in the CCRT group. Regarding toxicities, the rate of grade 3 or higher toxicity was 10.9% occurring in 16 patients, and it was higher in patients who received CCRT than in the RT alone group (19.6% vs. 6.3%, p=0.023).
Conclusion
Salvage RT alone as well as CCRT could be effective in patients with locoregionally recurrent esophageal cancer.

406 View
32 Download

Recurrence Dynamics of Pathological N2 Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Based on IASLC Residual Tumor Descriptor: In Ha Kim, Geun Dong Lee, Sehoon Choi, Hyeong Ryul Kim, Yong-Hee Kim, Dong Kwan Kim, Seung-Il Park, Jae Kwang Yun; Received February 14, 2024 Accepted July 22, 2024 Published online July 23, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.150 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study investigated the recurrence patterns and timing in patients with pathologic N2 (pN2) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) according to the residual tumor (R) descriptor proposed by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC).
Materials and Methods
From 2004 to 2021, patients with pN2 NSCLC who underwent anatomical resection were analyzed according to the IASLC R criteria using medical records from a single center. Survival analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards models. Recurrence patterns between complete (R0) and uncertain resections (R[un]) were compared.
Results
In total, 1,373 patients were enrolled in this study: 576 (42.0%) in R0, 286 (20.8%) in R(un), and 511 (37.2%) in R1/R2 according to the IASLC R criteria. The most common reason for R(un) classification was positivity for the highest lymph node (88.8%). In multivariable analysis, the hazard ratios for recurrence in R(un) and R1/R2 compared to R0 were 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96–1.46) and 1.58 (1.31–1.90), respectively. The hazard rate curves displayed similar patterns among groups, peaking at approximately 12 months after surgery. There was a significant difference in distant recurrence patterns between R0 and R(un). Further analysis after stratification with the IASLC N2 descriptor showed significant differences in distant recurrence patterns between R0 and R(un) in patients pN2a1 and pN2a2 disease, but not in those with pN2b disease.
Conclusion
The IASLC R criteria has prognostic relevance in patients with pN2 NSCLC. R(un) is a highly heterogeneous group, and the involvement of the highest mediastinal lymph node can affect distant recurrence patterns.

480 View
33 Download

Differences in the Prognostic Impact between Single-zone and Multi-zone N2 Node Metastasis in Patients with Station-based Multiple N2 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Shi A Kim, Geun Dong Lee, Se Hoon Choi, Hyeong Ryul Kim, Yong-Hee Kim, Dong Kwan Kim, Seung-Il Park, Jae Kwang Yun; Received February 5, 2024 Accepted July 19, 2024 Published online July 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.120 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer suggests further subdivision of pathologic N (pN) category in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by incorporating the location and number of involved lymph node (LN) stations. We reclassified patients with the station-based N2b disease into single-zone and multi-zone N2b groups and compared survival outcomes between the groups.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study included patients with pN2 NSCLC who underwent lobectomy from 2006 to 2019. The N2 disease was subdivided into four categories: single-station N2 without N1 (N2a1), single-station N2 with N1 (N2a2), multiple-station N2 with single zone involvement (single-zone N2b), and multiple-station N2 with multiple zone involvement (multi-zone N2b). LN zones included in the subdivision of N2 disease were upper mediastinal, lower mediastinal, aortopulmonary, and subcarinal.
Results
Among 996 eligible patients, 211 (21.2%), 394 (39.6%), and 391 (39.3%) were confirmed to have pN2a1, pN2a2, and pN2b disease, respectively. In multivariable analysis after adjustment for sex, age, pT category, and adjuvant chemotherapy, overall survival was significantly better with single-zone N2b disease (n=125, 12.6%) than with multi-zone N2b disease (n=266, 26.7%) (hazard ratio [HR], 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49 to 0.90; p=0.009) and was comparable to that of N2a2 disease (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.49; p=0.46).
Conclusion
Prognosis of single-zone LN metastasis was better than that of multiple-zone LN metastasis in patients with N2b NSCLC. Along with the station-based N descriptors, zone-based descriptors might ensure optimal staging, enabling the most appropriate decision-making on adjuvant therapy for patients with pN2 NSCLC.

527 View
52 Download

The Cancer Clinical Library Database (CCLD) from the Korea-Clinical Data Utilization Network for Research Excellence (K-CURE) Project: Sangwon Lee, Yeon Ho Choi, Hak Min Kim, Min Ah Hong, Phillip Park, In Hae Kwak, Ye Ji Kang, Kui Son Choi, Hyun-Joo Kong, Hyosung Cha, Hyun-Jin Kim, Kwang Sun Ryu, Young Sang Jeon, Hwanhee Kim, Jip Min Jung, Jeong-Soo Im, Heejung Chae; Received February 27, 2024 Accepted July 9, 2024 Published online July 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.218 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: The common data model (CDM) has found widespread application in healthcare studies, but its utilization in cancer research has been limited. This article describes the development and implementation strategy for Cancer Clinical Library Databases (CCLDs), which are standardized cancer-specific databases established under the Korea-Clinical Data Utilization Network for Research Excellence (K-CURE) project by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare. Fifteen leading hospitals and fourteen academic associations in Korea are engaged in constructing CCLDs for 10 primary cancer types. For each cancer type-specific CCLD, cancer data experts determine key clinical data items essential for cancer research, standardize these items across cancer types, and create a standardized schema. Comprehensive clinical records covering diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes, with annual updates, are collected for each cancer patient in the target population, and quality control is based on six-sigma standards. To protect patient privacy, CCLDs follow stringent data security guidelines by pseudonymizing personal identification information and operating within a closed analysis environment. Researchers can apply for access to CCLD data through the K-CURE portal, which is subject to Institutional Review Board and Data Review Board approval. The CCLD is considered a pioneering standardized cancer-specific database, significantly representing Korea’s cancer data. It is expected to overcome limitations of previous CDMs and provide a valuable resource for multicenter cancer research in Korea.

1,388 View
98 Download

Locoregional Recurrence in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Breast: A Retrospective, Multicenter Study (KROG 22-14): Sang Min Lee, Bum-Sup Jang, Won Park, Yong Bae Kim, Jin Ho Song, Jin Hee Kim, Tae Hyun Kim, In Ah Kim, Jong Hoon Lee, Sung-Ja Ahn, Kyubo Kim, Ah Ram Chang, Jeanny Kwon, Hae Jin Park, Kyung Hwan Shin; Received February 23, 2024 Accepted July 11, 2024 Published online July 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.201 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the treatment approaches and locoregional patterns for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) in the breast, which is an uncommon malignant tumor with limited clinical data.
Materials and Methods
A total of 93 patients diagnosed with primary ACC in the breast between 1992 and 2022 were collected from multi-institutions. All patients underwent surgical resection, including breast-conserving surgery (BCS) or total mastectomy (TM). Recurrence patterns and locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRFS) were assessed.
Results
Seventy-five patients (80.7%) underwent BCS, and 71 of them (94.7%) received post-operative radiation therapy (PORT). Eighteen patients (19.3%) underwent TM, with five of them (27.8%) also receiving PORT. With a median follow-up of 50 months, the LRFS rate was 84.2% at 5 years. Local recurrence (LR) was observed in five patients (5.4%) and four cases (80%) of the LR occurred in the tumor bed. Three of LR (3/75, 4.0%) had a history of BCS and PORT, meanwhile, two of LR (2/18, 11.1%) had a history of mastectomy. Regional recurrence occurred in two patients (2.2%), and both cases had a history of PORT with (n=1) and without (n=1) irradiation of the regional lymph nodes. Partial breast irradiation (p=0.35), BCS (p=0.96) and PORT in BCS group (p=0.33) had no significant association with LRFS.
Conclusion
BCS followed by PORT was the predominant treatment approach for ACC of the breast and LR mostly occurred in the tumor bed. The findings of this study suggest that partial breast irradiation might be considered for PORT in primary breast ACC.

638 View
71 Download

A Single-Arm Phase II Clinical Trial of Fulvestrant Combined with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy of ER+/HER2– Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: Integrated Analysis of ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT and Metabolites with Treatment Response: Qing Shao, Ningning Zhang, Xianjun Pan, Wenqi Zhou, Yali Wang, Xiaoliang Chen, Jing Wu, Xiaohua Zeng; Received November 24, 2023 Accepted July 7, 2024 Published online July 9, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2023.1251 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This Phase II trial was objected to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding fulvestrant to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)+/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)– locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the association of 16α-18F-fluoro-17β-fluoroestradiol (¹⁸F-FES) positron emission tomography (PET)–computed tomography (CT) and metabolites with efficacy.
Materials and Methods
Fulvestrant and EC-T regimen were given to ER+/HER2– LABC patients before surgery. At baseline, patients received ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT scan, and plasma samples were taken for liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included total pathologic complete response (tpCR) and safety.
Results
Among the 36 patients enrolled, the ORR was 86.1%, the tpCR rate was 8.3%. The incidence of grade ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events was 22%. The decrease in ER value in sensitive patients was larger than that in non-sensitive patients, as was Ki-67 (p < 0.05). The maximum standardized uptake value, mean standardized uptake values, total lesion ER expression of ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT in sensitive patients were significantly higher than those in non-sensitive patients (p < 0.05). Moreover, these parameters were significantly correlated with Miller and Payne grade and the change in ER expression before and after treatment (p < 0.05). Thirteen differential expressed metabolites were identified, which were markedly enriched in 19 metabolic pathways.
Conclusion
This regimen demonstrated acceptable toxicity and encouraging antitumor efficacy. ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT might serve as a tool to predict the effectiveness of this therapy. Altered metabolites or metabolic pathways might be associated with treatment response.

804 View
84 Download

Proximal Gastrectomy Is Associated with Lower Incidence of Anemia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency Compared to Total Gastrectomy in Patients with Upper Gastric Cancer: Jeong Ho Song, Sung Hyun Park, Minah Cho, Yoo Min Kim, Woo Jin Hyung, Hyoung-Il Kim; Received March 29, 2024 Accepted July 2, 2024 Published online July 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.319 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
Proximal gastrectomy is an alternative to total gastrectomy (TG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) treatment in the upper stomach. However, its benefits in terms of perioperative and long-term outcomes remain controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative, body compositional, nutritional, and survival outcomes of patients undergoing proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (PG-DTR) and TG for pathological stage I gastric cancer in upper stomach.
Materials and Methods
The study included 506 patients who underwent gastrectomy for pathological stage I gastric cancer in the upper stomach between 2015 and 2019. Clinicopathological, perioperative, body compositional, nutritional, and survival outcomes were compared between the PG-DTR and TG groups.
Results
The PG-DTR and TG groups included 197 (38.9%) and 309 (61.1%) patients, respectively. The PG-DTR group had a lower rate of early complications (p=0.041), lower diagnosis rate of anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency (all p < 0.001), and lower replacement rate of iron and vitamin B12 compared to TG group (all p < 0.001). The PG-DTR group showed reduced incidence of sarcopenia at 6-months postoperatively, preserved higher amount of visceral fat after surgery (p=0.032 and p=0.040, respectively), and showed a higher hemoglobin level (p=0.007). Oncologic outcomes were comparable between the groups.
Conclusion
The PG-DTR for EGC located in the upper stomach offered advantages of fewer complications, lower incidence of anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency, less decrease in visceral fat volume, and similar survival compared to TG. Consequently, PG-DTR may be considered a superior alternative treatment option to TG.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Proximal Gastrectomy for Upper-third Early Gastric Cancer
Guanhong Min, Kwangyong Kim, Seonghoon Cho, Jaewoo Shim
Journal of Digestive Cancer Research.2024; 12(2): 68. CrossRef

944 View
72 Download
1 Crossref

Upfront Stereotactic Radiosurgery or Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy in Elderly Patients with Brain Metastases from Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis of a 10-Year Bi-institutional Experience: Myungsoo Kim, Jihye Cha, Hun Jung Kim, Woo Chul Kim, Jeongshim Lee; Received February 29, 2024 Accepted July 2, 2024 Published online July 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.223 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FSRT) are increasingly used as initial therapies for brain metastases (BM). We aimed to assess the outcomes of SRS/FSRT in patients aged ≥ 65 years who had 1-10 BM from non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 91 elderly NSCLC patients with 222 BM who were treated with SRS/FSRT at two institutions between 2010 and 2020. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) after SRS/FSRT. In addition, in-field local control (IFLC) within the treated field was evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed to identify the prognostic factors affecting OS and IFLC.
Results
During a median follow-up of 18 months, the median OS was 32 months. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 69.8% and 56.1%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the NSCLC-specific graded prognostic assessment (GPA) score (p=0.007) and administration of systemic therapy (p=0.039) were defined as prognosticators affecting OS. The median IFLC period was 31 months, and the 1- and 2-year IFLC rates were 75.9% and 57.6%, respectively. The total BM volume (p=0.042) significantly affected IFLC. No severe adverse events were reported after SRS/FSRT.
Conclusion
SRS/FSRT is an effective upfront treatment option for BM arising from NSCLC in elderly patients, with a good OS without severe side effects. Higher GPA score and active systemic treatment were associated with improved OS, indicating that elderly patients are significant candidates for SRS/FSRT.

988 View
84 Download

Enhancing Identification of High-Risk cN0 Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients Using MRI-Based Radiomic Features: Harim Kim, Jonghoon Kim, Soohyun Hwang, You Jin Oh, Joong Hyun Ahn, Min-Ji Kim, Tae Hee Hong, Sung Goo Park, Joon Young Choi, Hong Kwan Kim, Jhingook Kim, Sumin Shin, Ho Yun Lee; Received March 7, 2024 Accepted June 22, 2024 Published online June 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.251 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to develop a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based radiomics model to predict high-risk pathologic features for lung adenocarcinoma: micropapillary and solid pattern (MPsol), spread through air space, and poorly differentiated patterns.
Materials and Methods
As a prospective study, we screened clinical N0 lung cancer patients who were surgical candidates and had undergone both ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) and chest CT from August 2018 to January 2020. We recruited patients meeting our proposed imaging criteria indicating high-risk, that is, poorer prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma, using CT and FDG PET/CT. If possible, these patients underwent an MRI examination from which we extracted 77 radiomics features from T1-contrast-enhanced and T2-weighted images. Additionally, patient demographics, maximum standardized uptake value on FDG PET/CT, and the mean apparent diffusion coefficient value on diffusion-weighted image, were considered together to build prediction models for high-risk pathologic features.
Results
Among 616 patients, 72 patients met the imaging criteria for high-risk lung cancer and underwent lung MRI. The magnetic resonance (MR)–eligible group showed a higher prevalence of nodal upstaging (29.2% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.001), vascular invasion (6.5% vs. 2.1%, p=0.011), high-grade pathologic features (p < 0.001), worse 4-year disease-free survival (p < 0.001) compared with non-MR-eligible group. The prediction power for MR-based radiomics model predicting high-risk pathologic features was good, with mean area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) value measuring 0.751-0.886 in test sets. Adding clinical variables increased the predictive performance for MPsol and the poorly differentiated pattern using the 2021 grading system (AUC, 0.860 and 0.907, respectively).
Conclusion
Our imaging criteria can effectively screen high-risk lung cancer patients and predict high-risk pathologic features by our MR-based prediction model using radiomics.

1,093 View
58 Download

Molecular Classification of Breast Cancer Using Weakly Supervised Learning: Wooyoung Jang, Jonghyun Lee, Kyong Hwa Park, Aeree Kim, Sung Hak Lee, Sangjeong Ahn; Received February 5, 2024 Accepted June 23, 2024 Published online June 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.113 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
The molecular classification of breast cancer is crucial for effective treatment. The emergence of digital pathology has ushered in a new era in which weakly supervised learning leveraging whole-slide images has gained prominence in developing deep learning models because this approach alleviates the need for extensive manual annotation. Weakly supervised learning was employed to classify the molecular subtypes of breast cancer.
Materials and Methods
Our approach capitalizes on two whole-slide image datasets: one consisting of breast cancer cases from the Korea University Guro Hospital (KG) and the other originating from The Cancer Genomic Atlas dataset (TCGA). Furthermore, we visualized the inferred results using an attention-based heat map and reviewed the histomorphological features of the most attentive patches.
Results
The KG+TCGA-trained model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristics value of 0.749. An inherent challenge lies in the imbalance among subtypes. Additionally, discrepancies between the two datasets resulted in different molecular subtype proportions. To mitigate this imbalance, we merged the two datasets, and the resulting model exhibited improved performance. The attentive patches correlated well with widely recognized histomorphologic features. The triple-negative subtype has a high incidence of high-grade nuclei, tumor necrosis, and intratumoral tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The luminal A subtype showed a high incidence of collagen fibers.
Conclusion
The artificial intelligence (AI) model based on weakly supervised learning showed promising performance. A review of the most attentive patches provided insights into the predictions of the AI model. AI models can become invaluable screening tools that reduce costs and workloads in practice.

1,218 View
131 Download

Gastrointestinal cancer

Clinical Outcomes of Surgery after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Yoo Na Lee, Min Kyu Sung, Dae Wook Hwang, Yejong Park, Bong Jun Kwak, Woohyung Lee, Ki Byung Song, Jae Hoon Lee, Changhoon Yoo, Kyu-Pyo Kim, Heung-Moon Chang, Baek-Yeol Ryoo, Song Cheol Kim; Cancer Res Treat. 2024;56(4):1240-1251. Published online June 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2023.977

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
Clinical outcomes of surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have not been investigated for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), despite well-established outcomes in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC). This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of patients with LAPC who underwent curative resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma between January 2017 and December 2020.
Results
Among 1,358 patients, 260 underwent surgery following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Among 356 LAPC patients, 98 (27.5%) and 147 (35.1%) of 418 BRPC patients underwent surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Compared to resectable pancreatic cancer (resectable PC) with upfront surgery, both LAPC and BRPC exhibited higher rates of venous resection (28.6% vs. 49.0% vs. 4.0%), arterial resection (30.6% vs. 6.8% vs. 0.5%) and greater estimated blood loss (260.5 vs. 213.1 vs. 70.4 mL). However, hospital stay, readmission rates, and postoperative pancreatic fistula rates (grade B or C) did not differ significantly between LAPC, BRPC, and resectable PC. Overall and relapse-free survival did not differ significantly between LAPC and BRPC patients. The median overall survival was 37.3 months for LAPC and 37.0 months for BRPC. The median relapse-free survival was 22.7 months for LAPC and 26.0 months for BRPC.
Conclusion
Overall survival time and postoperative complications in LAPC patients who underwent curative resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy showed similar results to those of BRPC patients. Further research is needed to identify specific sub-populations of LAPC patients who benefit most from conversion surgery and to minimize postoperative complications.

1,005 View
77 Download

Endoxifen Concentration Is Associated with Recurrence-Free Survival in Hormone-Sensitive Breast Cancer Patients: Beomki Lee, Seok Jin Nam, Seok Won Kim, Jonghan Yu, Byung-Joo Chae, Se Kyung Lee, Jai Min Ryu, Jeong Eon Lee, Soo-Youn Lee; Received December 5, 2023 Accepted June 16, 2024 Published online June 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2023.1285 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
The metabolism of tamoxifen is influenced by various cytochrome p450 enzymes, including CYP2D6 and CYP2C19, leading to variations in the levels of endoxifen, even with the same tamoxifen dose. However, the clinical significance of endoxifen for the prognosis of breast cancer patients remains controversial. This study aimed to elucidate the relevance of endoxifen level to recurrence-free survival censored with tamoxifen discontinuation (RFSt), representing the RFS for tamoxifen itself, of breast cancer patients and determine a suitable cutoff for prognostication.
Materials and Methods
The study included 478 breast cancer patients. Tamoxifen and its metabolites, including endoxifen, were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. An optimal cutoff was determined with maximally selected rank statistics. Survival analysis and Cox regression were conducted based on this cutoff.
Results
An endoxifen level of 21.00 ng/mL was the optimal cutoff for prognostication. Survival analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in RFSt between the low endoxifen group (≤ 21.00 ng/mL) and the high endoxifen group (> 21.00 ng/mL) (log-rank test, p=0.032). The 10-year probability of RFSt was 83.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77.0 to 89.9) and 88.3% (95% CI, 83.3 to 93.5) in the low and high endoxifen groups, respectively. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression indicated endoxifen concentration as a significant factor associated with prognosis.
Conclusion
Endoxifen could serve as a marker for appropriate tamoxifen treatment with a cutoff of 21.00 ng/mL. Based on this cutoff, therapeutic drug monitoring would benefit patients displaying suboptimal endoxifen concentrations.

738 View
67 Download

Breast cancer

A 10-Gene Signature to Predict the Prognosis of Early-Stage Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Chang Min Kim, Kyong Hwa Park, Yun Suk Yu, Ju Won Kim, Jin Young Park, Kyunghee Park, Jong-Han Yu, Jeong Eon Lee, Sung Hoon Sim, Bo Kyoung Seo, Jin Kyeoung Kim, Eun Sook Lee, Yeon Hee Park, Sun-Young Kong; Cancer Res Treat. 2024;56(4):1113-1125. Published online May 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.100

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a particularly challenging subtype of breast cancer, with a poorer prognosis compared to other subtypes. Unfortunately, unlike luminal-type cancers, there is no validated biomarker to predict the prognosis of patients with early-stage TNBC. Accurate biomarkers are needed to establish effective therapeutic strategies.
Materials and Methods
In this study, we analyzed gene expression profiles of tumor samples from 184 TNBC patients (training cohort, n=76; validation cohort, n=108) using RNA sequencing.
Results
By combining weighted gene expression, we identified a 10-gene signature (DGKH, GADD45B, KLF7, LYST, NR6A1, PYCARD, ROBO1, SLC22A20P, SLC24A3, and SLC45A4) that stratified patients by risk score with high sensitivity (92.31%), specificity (92.06%), and accuracy (92.11%) for invasive disease-free survival. The 10-gene signature was validated in a separate institution cohort and supported by meta-analysis for biological relevance to well-known driving pathways in TNBC. Furthermore, the 10-gene signature was the only independent factor for invasive disease-free survival in multivariate analysis when compared to other potential biomarkers of TNBC molecular subtypes and T-cell receptor β diversity. 10-gene signature also further categorized patients classified as molecular subtypes according to risk scores.
Conclusion
Our novel findings may help address the prognostic challenges in TNBC and the 10-gene signature could serve as a novel biomarker for risk-based patient care.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Significance of Multi-Cancer Genome Profiling Testing for Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis of 3326 Cases from Japan’s National Database
Kyoka Kawabata, Hinano Nishikubo, Saki Kanei, Rika Aoyama, Yuki Tsukada, Tomoya Sano, Daiki Imanishi, Takashi Sakuma, Koji Maruo, Yurie Yamamoto, Qiang Wang, Zhonglin Zhu, Canfeng Fan, Masakazu Yashiro
Genes.2024; 15(6): 792. CrossRef

1,284 View
118 Download
1 Web of Science
1 Crossref

Gastrointestinal cancer

Clinical and Radiologic Predictors of Response to Atezolizumab-Bevacizumab in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Se Jin Choi, Sung Won Chung, Jonggi Choi, Kang Mo Kim, Hyung-Don Kim, Changhoon Yoo, Baek-Yeol Ryoo, Seung Soo Lee, Won-Mook Choi, Sang Hyun Choi; Cancer Res Treat. 2024;56(4):1219-1230. Published online May 7, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.283

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
This study aimed to identify clinical and radiologic characteristics that could predict response to atezolizumab-bevacizumab combination therapy in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Materials and Methods
This single-center retrospective study included 108 advanced HCC patients with intrahepatic lesions who were treated with atezolizumab-bevacizumab. Two radiologists independently analyzed imaging characteristics of the index tumor on pretreatment computed tomography. Predictive factors associated with progressive disease (PD) at the best response based on Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, ver. 1.1 were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Progression-free survival (PFS) was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and compared with the log-rank test.
Results
Of 108 patients with a median PFS of 15 weeks, 40 (37.0%) had PD during treatment. Factors associated with PD included the presence of extrahepatic metastases (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19 to 14.35; p=0.03), the infiltrative appearance of the tumor (aOR, 3.07; 95% CI, 1.05 to 8.93; p=0.04), and the absence of arterial-phase hyperenhancement (APHE) (aOR, 6.34; 95% CI, 2.18 to 18.47; p < 0.001). Patients with two or more of these factors had a PD of 66.7% and a median PFS of 8 weeks, indicating a significantly worse outcome compared to the patients with one or no of these factors.
Conclusion
In patients with advanced HCC treated with atezolizumab-bevacizumab treatment, the absence of APHE, infiltrative appearance of the intrahepatic tumor, and presence of extrahepatic metastases were associated with poor response and survival. Evaluation of early response may be necessary in patients with these factors.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Liver Transplantation for Hepatocarcinoma: Results over Two Decades of a Transplantation Programme and Analysis of Factors Associated with Recurrence
María Martínez Burgos, Rocío González Grande, Susana López Ortega, Inmaculada Santaella Leiva, Jesús de la Cruz Lombardo, Julio Santoyo Santoyo, Miguel Jiménez Pérez
Biomedicines.2024; 12(6): 1302. CrossRef

1,387 View
93 Download
1 Web of Science
1 Crossref

Precision Oncology Clinical Trials: A Systematic Review of Phase II Clinical Trials with Biomarker-Driven, Adaptive Design: Hyerim Ha, Hee Yeon Lee, Jee Hyun Kim, Do Yeun Kim, Ho Jung An, SeungJin Bae, Hye-sung Park, Jin Hyoung Kang; Cancer Res Treat. 2024;56(4):991-1013. Published online May 7, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.128

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Novel clinical trial designs are conducted in the precision medicine era. This study aimed to evaluate biomarker-driven, adaptive phase II trials in precision oncology, focusing on infrastructure, efficacy, and safety. We systematically reviewed and analyzed the target studies. EMBASE and PubMed searches from 2015 to 2023 generated 29 eligible trials. Data extraction included infrastructure, biomarker screening methodologies, efficacy, and safety profiles. Government agencies, cancer hospitals, and academic societies with accumulated experiences led investigator-initiated precision oncology clinical trials (IIPOCTs), which later guided sponsor-initiated precision oncology clinical trials (SIPOCTs). Most SIPOCTs were international studies with basket design. IIPOCTs primarily used the central laboratory for biomarker screening, but SIPOCTs used both central and local laboratories. Most of the studies adapted next-generation sequencing and/or immunohistochemistry for biomarker screening. Fifteen studies included an independent central review committee for outcome investigation. Efficacy assessments predominantly featured objective response rate as the primary endpoint, with varying results. Nine eligible studies contributed to the United States Food and Drug Administration’s marketing authorization. Safety monitoring was rigorous, but reporting formats lacked uniformity. Health-related quality of life and patient-reported outcomes were described in some protocols but rarely reported. Our results reveal that precision oncology trials with adaptive design rapidly and efficiently evaluate anticancer drugs’ efficacy and safety, particularly in specified biomarker-driven cohorts. The evolution from IIPOCT to SIPOCT has facilitated fast regulatory approval, providing valuable insights into the precision oncology landscape.

1,844 View
116 Download

Data Resource Profile: The Cancer Public Library Database in South Korea: Dong-Woo Choi, Min Yeong Guk, Hye Ri Kim, Kwang Sun Ryu, Hyun-Joo Kong, Hyo Soung Cha, Hyun-Jin Kim, Heejung Chae, Young Sang Jeon, Hwanhee Kim, Jipmin Jung, Jeong-Soo Im, Kui Son Choi; Cancer Res Treat. 2024;56(4):1014-1026. Published online April 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.207

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the Cancer Public Library Database (CPLD), established under the Korean Clinical Data Utilization for Research Excellence project (K-CURE). The CPLD links data from four major population-based public sources: the Korea National Cancer Incidence Database in the Korea Central Cancer Registry, cause-of-death data in Statistics Korea, the National Health Information Database in the National Health Insurance Service, and the National Health Insurance Research Database in the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service. These databases are linked using an encrypted resident registration number. The CPLD, established in 2022 and updated annually, comprises 1,983,499 men and women newly diagnosed with cancer between 2012 and 2019. It contains data on cancer registration and death, demographics, medical claims, general health checkups, and national cancer screening. The most common cancers among men in the CPLD were stomach (16.1%), lung (14.0%), colorectal (13.3%), prostate (9.6%), and liver (9.3%) cancers. The most common cancers among women were thyroid (20.4%), breast (16.6%), colorectal (9.0%), stomach (7.8%), and lung (6.2%) cancers. Among them, 571,285 died between 2012 and 2020 owing to cancer (89.2%) or other causes (10.8%). Upon approval, the CPLD is accessible to researchers through the K-CURE portal. The CPLD is a unique resource for diverse cancer research to investigate medical use before a cancer diagnosis, during initial diagnosis and treatment, and long-term follow-up. This offers expanded insight into healthcare delivery across the cancer continuum, from screening to end-of-life care.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Risk Factors and Prevention of Stomach Cancer, Excluding Helicobacter pylori
Seung-Woo Lee
The Korean Journal of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research.2024; 24(3): 243. CrossRef
Prediction model for survival of younger patients with breast cancer using the breast cancer public staging database
Ha Ye Jin Kang, Minsam Ko, Kwang Sun Ryu
Scientific Reports.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

2,617 View
218 Download
1 Web of Science
2 Crossref

Search