Cancer Research and Treatment

Associations of Financial Toxicity with Employment Concerns and Cancer-Related Distress: A Cross-Sectional Survey among Korean Working-Age Cancer Survivors: Hyun-Ju Seo, Dal-Lae Jin, Young Ae Kim, Su Jung Lee, Seok-Jun Yoon; Received January 24, 2024 Accepted December 2, 2024 Published online December 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.090 [Epub ahead of print]

Purpose
Although South Korea’s health insurance has a co-payment-decreasing policy for cancer survivors, information on the extent of financial toxicity and its related factors is limited. We assessed the level of financial toxicity and the association of high levels of financial toxicity with employment concerns after diagnosis and cancer-related distress in working-age cancer survivors.
Materials and Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted. Study participants were recruited from the National Cancer Survivorship Center between November and December 2022. Financial burden was assessed using the Korean version of the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity, and cancer-related distress was measured using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the associations between high financial toxicity, cancer-related distress, and changes in employment status after cancer diagnosis.
Results
Of 1,403 working-age cancer survivors, approximately 62% reported high levels of financial distress. Survivors reporting early retirement and taking time off work with the intent to return were more likely to report high financial toxicity (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14 to 2.5; and adjusted OR, 2.82; 95% CI, 1.24 to 6.43, respectively) than those with a full-time or part-time job. Moreover, cancer survivors with high distress levels were more likely to report high financial toxicity than those with low distress levels (adjusted OR, 4.36; 95% CI, 3.17 to 5.99).
Conclusion
High financial toxicity is associated with adverse employment concerns and cancer-related distress among working-age cancer survivors. Therefore, developing cancer survivorship interventions within the healthcare system is necessary to ensure improvements in financial well-being.

Citations

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Chronic Disease and Future Perceptions of Financial Control
Victoria H. Davis, Guanghao Zhang, Minal R. Patel
Medical Care.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) are a novel class of therapeutics that structurally are composed by an antibody directed to a tumor 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.

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Evaluating the Effects of Mindfulness-Based Self-Help via an OTT Platform on Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Prospective Nonrandomized 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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: 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 coronavirus disease 2019 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 nonrandomized 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.

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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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
Population attributable fractions (PAFs) for hormone and reproductive factors have been estimated in several countries. International Agency for Research on Cancer (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, 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. Estrogen-progesterone combined hormone replacement therapy (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 and 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.

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Machine Learning–Based Prognostic Gene Signature for Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Ju Won Kim, Jonghyun Lee, Sung Hak Lee, Sangjeong Ahn, Kyong Hwa Park; Received September 26, 2024 Accepted November 18, 2024 Published online November 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.937 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
This study aimed to develop a machine learning–based approach to identify prognostic gene signatures for early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) using next-generation sequencing data from Asian populations.
Materials and Methods
We utilized next-generation sequencing data to analyze gene expression profiles and identify potential biomarkers. Our methodology involved integrating various machine learning techniques, including feature selection and model optimization. We employed logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to validate the identified gene signatures.
Results
We identified a gene signature significantly associated with relapse in TNBC patients. The predictive model demonstrated robustness and accuracy, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.9087, sensitivity of 0.8750, and specificity of 0.9231. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed a strong association between the gene signature and patient relapse, further validated by logistic regression analysis.
Conclusion
This study presents a novel machine learning-based prognostic tool for TNBC, offering significant implications for early detection and personalized treatment. The identified gene signature provides a promising approach for improving the management of TNBC, contributing to the advancement of precision oncology.

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Effectiveness and Safety of Regorafenib and TAS-102 in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Nationwide Population-Based Study in Taiwan: Ya-Wen Chang, Chun-Nan Kuo, Chia-Lun Chang, Jason C. Hsu, Yu Ko; Received April 16, 2024 Accepted November 16, 2024 Published online November 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.376 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
This study aimed to examine the real-world effectiveness and safety of regorafenib and trifluridine/tipiracil (TAS-102) in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients in Taiwan.
Materials and Methods
Data were extracted from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database to evaluate the clinical outcomes of mCRC patients treated with either regorafenib or TAS-102 between 2016 and 2019. Overall survival (OS) was compared using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox’s proportional hazard models, adjusting for age, sex, Quan-CCI score, liver metastases, number of metastatic sites, and the use of anti–epidermal growth factor receptor medications. Additionally, OS was compared between regorafenib monotherapy and TAS-102 monotherapy, excluding patients who had received both regorafenib and TAS-102.
Results
A total of 2,608 patients in the regorafenib group and 521 patients in the TAS-102 group were identified. The median OS was 6.5 months for regorafenib and 7.5 months for TAS-102, with a significant difference observed (p=0.001). The mean duration of treatment was similar for regorafenib and TAS-102 (108 days vs. 101 days) with no significant difference. The safety profiles of the two drugs were distinct; a higher proportion of patients in the regorafenib group had hypertension and hand-foot skin reaction while nausea and vomiting were more common in the TAS-102 group. In the subgroup analysis, patients receiving TAS-102 monotherapy showed significantly longer OS than those receiving regorafenib monotherapy.
Conclusion
The findings of this study indicated that TAS-102 had superior survival outcomes compared to regorafenib in mCRC patients. This study provides insights into the effectiveness and safety profiles of regorafenib and TAS-102 in Taiwan.

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Predictive Value of the nProfiler 1 Assay for the Efficacy of Adjuvant S-1–Based Doublet Chemotherapy in Stage III Gastric Cancer: A Post-Hoc Analysis of a Randomized Phase III Trial: Dong Ki Lee, Choong-kun Lee, Hyo Song Kim, Sun Jin Sym, Dae Young Zang, Ki Hyang Kim, Joo Han Lim, Hae Su Kim, Kyung Hee Lee, Heon Yung Gee, Sun Young Rha, Hyunki Kim, Minkyu Jung; Received July 25, 2024 Accepted November 9, 2024 Published online November 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.705 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
The nProfiler 1 Stomach Cancer Assay (nProfiler1), designed to predict responses to fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy, measures the expression of four gastric cancer target genes (GZMB, WARS, SFRP4, and CDX1). The randomized phase III POST trial aimed to compare the efficacies of two adjuvant S-1-based doublet chemotherapies: S-1 plus cisplatin (SP) and S-1 plus docetaxel (DS). This study aimed to validate the nProfiler1 assay using a distinct cohort from the POST trial.
Materials and Methods
The nProfiler1 assay stratifies patients into three groups (low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk) using the prognostic single-patient classifier and two groups (chemotherapy-benefit and no-benefit) using the predictive single-patient classifier. The nProfiler1 assay was applied to formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded slides obtained from the POST trial. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), including 5-year survival rates, were calculated for the enrolled patients.
Results
Of the 153 patients in the POST trial, 118 were included in the post-hoc analysis. With a median follow-up of 57.9 months, no significant difference in DFS or OS was observed between the SP and DS groups. The prognostic single-patient classifier predicted the OS in the SP group (p=0.043) but not in the DS group (p=0.594). The chemotherapy-benefit group exhibited numerically longer DFS than the no-benefit group in the SP and DS groups.
Conclusion
The nProfiler1 assay offers valuable insights into the prognosis and efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy based on fluorouracil plus platinum doublet regimens but not docetaxel-containing regimens. Further validation with larger patient cohorts and different regimens is warranted.

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To Use or Not to Use: Temozolomide in Elderly Patients with IDH Wild-Type MGMT Promoter Unmethylated Glioblastoma Treated with Radiotherapy: Chan Woo Wee, Joo Ho Lee, Hye In Lee, Jina Kim, Jong Hee Chang, Seok-Gu Kang, Eui Hyun Kim, Ju Hyung Moon, Jaeho Cho, Chul-Kee Park, Chae-Yong Kim, Kihwan Hwang, Hong In Yoon, In Ah Kim; Received September 27, 2024 Accepted November 8, 2024 Published online November 11, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.945 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to identify a specific subgroup of patients among elderly glioblastoma patients aged 70 years or older with unmethylated O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoters (eGBM-unmethylated) who would significantly benefit from the addition of temozolomide (TMZ) to radiotherapy (RT).
Materials and Methods
Newly diagnosed patients with Isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type eGBM-unmethylated treated with RT were included in this multicenter analysis (n=182). RT dose was 45 Gy in 15 fractions (62.3%), 60 Gy in 30 fractions, or 61.2 Gy in 34 fractions. For patients treated with RT plus TMZ (60.4%), TMZ was administered concurrently with RT, followed by six adjuvant cycles. The primary endpoint was overall survival.
Results
During a median follow-up of 11.3 months for survivors, the median survival was 12.2 months. The median survival duration significantly improved with the addition of TMZ to RT compared with that with RT alone (13.6 months vs. 10.5 months, p=0.028). In the multivariable analysis adjusted for clinical, radiological, and genetic biomarkers, the addition of TMZ significantly improved overall survival (hazard ratio, 0.459; p=0.006). In subgroup analysis, median survival was especially improved by 4-5 months in patients with residual disease (p < 0.001), Karnofsky performance status ≥ 60 (p=0.033), and age ≤ 75 years (p=0.090). A significant benefit of TMZ was noted only in patients with two or three of the above factors (median survival, 14.1 months vs. 10.5 months; p=0.014).
Conclusion
The addition of TMZ significantly improved the survival of patients with eGBM-unmethylated treated with RT. The suggested criteria for the specific subgroup in these patients warrant external validation for clinical application.

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Low-Dose Cyclophosphamide Enhances the Tumoricidal Effects of 5-Day Spacing Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy by Boosting Antitumor Immunity: Hyunkyung Kim, Seok-Joo Chun, Sojung Sun, Haeun Cho, Tae-Jin Kim, Yoon-Jin Lee, Eui Kyu Chie, Kwangmo Yang, Mi-Sook Kim; Received August 21, 2024 Accepted November 7, 2024 Published online November 8, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.807 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the potential role of low-dose cyclophosphamide (Cy) as a radiosensitizer by evaluating its impact on the immune response and the abscopal effect of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy through preclinical models.
Materials and Methods
CT26 tumors (immunologically hot) and 4T1 tumors (immunologically cold), grown in immunocompetent BALB/c and immunodeficient BALB/c–nude mice, were irradiated with 20 Gy in two fractions with 5-day spacing followed by intraperitoneal injections of 9 mg/kg Cy every 3 days. Immunological changes in CT26 tumors caused by the treatments were assessed using flow cytometry. Changes in the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in tumors were also assessed. Splenocytes and bone marrow–derived dendritic cells (DCs) were exposed to various concentrations of Cy to assess T cell proliferation and DC differentiation.
Results
The combination of Cy with radiotherapy (RT+Cy) significantly suppressed tumor growth compared to RT alone in immunocompetent mice, while that effect was not observed in immunodeficient mice. Additionally, RT+Cy effectively induced abscopal effects in hot and cold tumors, with increased CD8+ T cells in blood and tumors. Significantly higher expression levels of granzyme B, interferon γ, and tumor necrosis factor α were observed in RT+Cy group compared to the RT alone group. In vitro data indicated that low-dose Cy promotes DC differentiation. Low-dose Cy suppressed the radiation-induced upregulation of HIF-1α in the tumors.
Conclusion
Low-dose Cy enhances tumoricidal effects of 5-day spacing high-dose RT by increasing antitumor immune responses.

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Fraction of Cancer Attributable to Carcinogenic Drugs in Korea from 2015 to 2030: Woojin Lim, Soseul Sung, Youjin Hong, Sungji Moon, Sangjun Lee, Kyungsik Kim, Jung Eun Lee, Inah Kim, Kwang-Pil Ko, Sue K. Park; Received June 28, 2024 Accepted November 5, 2024 Published online November 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.644 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
This study aims to estimate and project the population attributable fraction (PAF) of cancer incidence and death due to carcinogenic drug use in Korea from 2015 to 2030, to estimate the degree of cancer prevention from exposure to carcinogenic drugs in Korea. Selected carcinogenic drugs were immunosuppressive and antineoplastic drugs classified as group I by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Materials and Methods
Systematic review and meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the relative risk of cancer associated with carcinogenic drug use. Age was standardized using the annual prevalence rate of the National Health Insurance Service sample cohort (NHIS-NSC) from 2002 to 2013 to calculate the standardized prevalence rate of carcinogenic drug use each year. The PAF of specific cancer incidence and death were calculated using Levin’s formula and Monte Carlo methods. The prevalence rates were extrapolated to estimate the trend of PAF from 2015 to 2030.
Results
In 2015, carcinogenic drugs attributed to 0.003% and 0.002% among the causes of cancer incidence and death in Korea. However, carcinogenic drugs attributed to 1.1% among the causes of both cancer incidence and death in patients with clinical indications of carcinogenic drugs.
Conclusion
The PAF in patients with clinical indications of carcinogenic drugs were significantly high and expected to increase rapidly over time. Since these drugs are listed as essential by the World Health Organization, and may be difficult to replace, a surveillance system on susceptible populations using group I carcinogenic drugs must be discussed and implemented.

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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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: 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 identifi ed in 23 (43.4%) and 32 (60.4%) patients, respectively. Thirty-one patients (58.5%) had NINV. Time-trend analyses revealed that the fi rst peak intensity of NINV was reached at 3 h post-dose, and the second peak intensity was reached at 11 hour post-dose. NINV signifi cantly 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 is required to manage early-phase NINV during niraparib maintenance therapy in patients with risk factors. Additional larger studies are needed to confi rm these fi ndings and to develop optimal preventive strategies for NINV.

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Unraveling the Impact of Sarcopenia-Induced Lymphopenia on Treatment Response and Prognosis in Patients with Stage III Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: Insights for Optimizing Chemoradiation and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor: Joongyo Lee, Kyung Hwan Kim, Jina Kim, Chang Geol Lee, Jaeho Cho, Hong In Yoon, Yeona Cho; Received May 23, 2024 Accepted October 29, 2024 Published online October 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.493 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Sarcopenia is a poor prognostic factor in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, its prognostic significance in patients with NSCLC receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and its relationship with lymphopenia remain unclear. We aimed to investigate the prognostic role of sarcopenia and its effect on lymphocyte recovery in patients with stage III NSCLC treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) followed by ICI.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 151 patients with stage III NSCLC who received definitive CCRT followed by maintenance ICI between January 2016 and June 2022. Sarcopenia was evaluated by measuring the skeletal muscle area at the L3 vertebra level using computed tomography scans. Lymphocyte level changes were assessed based on measurements taken before and during CCRT and at 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12 months post-CCRT completion.
Results
Even after adjusting for baseline absolute lymphocyte count through propensity score-matching, patients with pre-radiotherapy (RT) sarcopenia (n=86) exhibited poor lymphocyte recovery and a significantly high incidence of grade ≥ 3 lymphopenia during CCRT. Pre-RT sarcopenia and grade ≥ 3 lymphopenia during CCRT emerged as prognostic factors for overall survival and progression-free survival, respectively. Concurrent chemotherapy dose adjustments, objective response after CCRT, and discontinuation of maintenance ICI were also analyzed as independent prognostic factors.
Conclusion
Our results demonstrated an association between pre-RT sarcopenia and poor survival, concurrent chemotherapy dose adjustments, and impaired lymphocyte recovery after definitive CCRT. Moreover, CCRT-induced lymphopenia not only contributed to poor prognosis but may have also impaired the therapeutic efficacy of subsequent maintenance ICI, ultimately worsening treatment outcomes.

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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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: 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, 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 (1,136.3±612.8 to 1,287±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.

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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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: 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 to 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.

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Impact of TTF-1 Expression on the Prognostic Prediction of Patients with Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer with PD-L1 Expression Levels of 1% to 49%, Treated with Chemotherapy vs. Chemoimmunotherapy: A Multicenter, Retrospective Study: Naoya Nishioka, Tae Hata, Tadaaki Yamada, Yasuhiro Goto, Akihiko Amano, Yoshiki Negi, Satoshi Watanabe, Naoki Furuya, Tomohiro Oba, Tatsuki Ikoma, Akira Nakao, Keiko Tanimura, Hirokazu Taniguchi, Akihiro Yoshimura, Tomoya Fukui, Daiki Murata, Kyoichi Kaira, Shinsuke Shiotsu, Makoto Hibino, Asuka Okada, Yusuke Chihara, Hayato Kawachi, Takashi Kijima, Koichi Takayama; Received August 7, 2024 Accepted October 24, 2024 Published online October 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.748 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF-1) expression is a useful predictor of treatment efficacy in advanced non-squamous non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to evaluate whether TTF-1 could predict the effectiveness of chemotherapy versus chemoimmunotherapy in patients with non-squamous NSCLC with programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression between 1% and 49%.
Materials and Methods
We conducted a retrospective study of patients with NSCLC who were treated with chemotherapy or chemoimmunotherapy between March 2016 and May 2023. The patients had histologically confirmed NSCLC, stage III-IV or postoperative recurrence, TTF-1 measurements, and PD-L1 expression levels between 1% and 49%. Clinical data were analyzed to evaluate the effect of TTF-1 expression on treatment efficacy.
Results
This study included 283 of 624 patients. TTF-1–positive patients showed longer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (PFS: 6.4 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 5.0 to 9.4] vs. 4.1 months [95% CI, 2.7 to 6.1], p=0.03; OS: 17.9 months [95% CI, 15.2 to 28.1] vs. 9.4 months [95% CI, 6.3 to 17.0], p < 0.01) in the chemotherapy cohorts (n=93). In the chemoimmunotherapy cohort (n=190), there was no significant difference in PFS and OS between TTF-1–positive and –negative groups (PFS: 7.6 months [95% CI, 6.4 to 11.0] vs. 6.0 months [95% CI, 3.6 to 12.6], p=0.59; OS: 25.0 months [95% CI, 18.0 to 49.2] vs. 21.3 months [95% CI, 9.8 to 28.8], p=0.09).
Conclusion
In patients with NSCLC with PD-L1 expression between 1% and 49%, TTF-1 expression was a predictor of chemotherapeutic, but not chemoimmunotherapeutic, efficacy.

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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 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: 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.

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Second-Line Fluoropyrimidine-Based Chemotherapy in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancer: A Meta-analysis Based on Individual Patient-Level Data of Randomized Trials: Jaewon Hyung, Minsu Kang, Ilhwan Kim, Kyu-pyo Kim, Baek-Yeol Ryoo, Jaekyung Cheon, Hyewon Ryu, Ji Sung Lee, Ji-Won Kim, In Sil Choi, Jin Hyun Park, Ghassan K. Abou-Alfa, Jin Won Kim, Changhoon Yoo; Received July 16, 2024 Accepted October 15, 2024 Published online October 17, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.652 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
While fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy regimens are recommended second-line treatment for patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC), there have been no studies comparing different regimens head-to-head.
Materials and Methods
We performed individual patient-level meta-analysis based on data from the intention-to-treat population of the phase 2b NIFTY trial (liposomal irinotecan [nal-IRI] plus fluorouracil and leucovorin [5-FU/LV] vs. 5-FU/LV; NCT03542508) and the phase 2 FIReFOX trial (modified oxaliplatin plus 5-FU/LV [mFOLFOX] vs. modified irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV [mFOLFIRI]; NCT03464968). Pairwise log-rank tests and multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazards modeling with shared frailty to account for the trial's effect were used to compare overall survival (OS) between regimens.
Results
A total of 277 patients were included. The nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV group (n=88) showed significantly better OS compared to the mFOLFOX group (n=49, pairwise log-rank, p=0.02), and mFOLFIRI group (n=50, p =0.03). Multivariable analysis showed consistent trends in OS with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.39 (mFOLFOX vs nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV, 95% CI 0.93-2.07, p=0.11) and 1.36 (mFOLFIRI vs nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV, 95% CI 0.92-2.03, p=0.13), respectively. Compared to the 5-FU/LV group, the mFOLFOX group and the mFOLFIRI group did not show differences in terms of OS (pairwise log-rank p=0.83 and p=0.58, respectively). The nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV group experienced more frequent diarrhea, while the mFOLFOX group experienced peripheral neuropathy.
Conclusion
Nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV showed favorable survival outcomes compared to mFOLFOX, mFOLFIRI, or 5-FU/LV. The safety profiles of these regimens should be considered along with efficacy.

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Is Colonoscopy Alone Adequate for Surveillance in Stage I Colorectal Cancer?: Seijong Kim, Jung Kyong Shin, Yoonah Park, Jung Wook Huh, Hee Cheol Kim, Seong Hyeon Yun, Woo Yong Lee, Yong Beom Cho; Received June 4, 2024 Accepted October 2, 2024 Published online October 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.526 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
While colonoscopy is the standard surveillance tool for stage I colorectal cancer according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, its effectiveness in detecting recurrence is debated. This study evaluates recurrence risk factors and patterns in stage I colorectal cancer to inform comprehensive surveillance strategies.
Materials and Methods
A retrospective analysis of 2,248 stage I colorectal cancer patients who underwent radical surgery at Samsung Medical Center (2007-2018) was conducted. Exclusions were based on familial history, prior recurrences, preoperative treatments, and inadequate data. Surveillance included colonoscopy, laboratory tests, and computed tomography (CT) scans.
Results
Stage I colorectal cancer patients showed favorable 5-year disease-free survival (98.3% colon, 94.6% rectum). Among a total of 1,467 colon cancer patients, 26 (1.76%) experienced recurrence. Of the 781 rectal cancer patients, 47 (6.02%) experienced recurrence. Elevated preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen levels and perineural invasion were significant recurrence risk factors in colon cancer, while tumor budding was significant in rectal cancer. Distant metastasis was the main recurrence pattern in colon cancer (92.3%), while rectal cancer showed predominantly local recurrence (50%). Colonoscopy alone detected recurrences in a small fraction of cases (3.7% in colon, 14.9% in rectum).
Conclusion
Although recurrence in stage I colorectal cancer is rare, relying solely on colonoscopy for surveillance may miss distant metastases or locoregional recurrence outside the colorectum. For high-risk patients, we recommend considering regular CT scans alongside colonoscopy. This targeted approach may enable earlier recurrence detection and improve outcomes in this subset while avoiding unnecessary scans for the low-risk majority.

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Long-term Clinical Efficacy of Radiotherapy for Patients with Stage I-II Gastric Extranodal Marginal Zone B-Cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue: A Retrospective Multi-institutional Study: Jae Uk Jeong, Hyo Chun Lee, Jin Ho Song, Keun Yong Eom, Jin Hee Kim, Yoo Kang Kwak, Woo Chul Kim, Sun Young Lee, Jin Hwa Choi, Kang Kyu Lee, Jong Hoon Lee; Received July 16, 2024 Accepted October 1, 2024 Published online October 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.651 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate long-term treatment outcomes in patients with localized gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma treated with radiotherapy (RT).
Materials and Methods
A total of 229 patients who received RT in 10 tertiary hospitals between 2010 and 2019 were included in this multicenter analysis. Response after RT was based on esophagogastroduodenoscopy after RT. Locoregional relapse-free survival (LRFS) and disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were evaluated.
Results
After a median follow-up time of 93.2 months, 5-year LRFS, DFS, and OS rates were 92.8%, 90.4%, and 96.1%, respectively. LRFS, DFS, and OS rates at 10 years were 90.3%, 87.7%, and 92.8%, respectively. Of 229 patients, 228 patients (99.6%) achieved complete remission after RT. Five-year LRFS was significantly lower in patients with stage IIE than in those with stage IE (77.4% vs. 94.2%, p=0.047). Patients with age ≥ 60 had significantly lower LRFS than patients with age < 60 (89.3% vs. 95.1%, p=0.003). In the multivariate analysis, old age (≥ 60 years) was a poor prognostic factor for LRFS (hazard ratio, 3.72; confidence interval, 1.38 to 10.03; p=0.009). Grade 2 or higher gastritis was reported in 69 patients (30.1%). Secondary malignancies including gastric adenocarcinoma, malignant lymphoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer were observed in 11 patients (4.8%) after RT.
Conclusion
Patients treated with RT for localized gastric MALT lymphoma showed favorable 10-year outcomes. Radiation therapy is an effective treatment without an increased risk of secondary cancer. The toxicity for RT to the stomach is not high.

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Higher Microbial Abundance and Diversity in Bronchus-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphomas Than in Non-cancerous Lung Tissues: Jung Heon Kim, Jae Sik Kim, Noorie Choi, Jiwon Koh, Yoon Kyung Jeon, Ji Hyun Chang, Eung Soo Hwang, Il Han Kim; Received July 24, 2024 Accepted September 29, 2024 Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.689 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
It is well known that the majority of the extranodal marginal zone lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues (MALT lymphomas) are associated with microbiota, e.g., gastric MALT lymphoma with Helicobacter pylori. In general, they are very sensitive to low-dose radiotherapy and chemotherapeutic agents. The microbiota profile is not clearly elucidated in bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) lymphoma, a rare type of MALT lymphoma in the lung. Thus, this study aimed to clarify the intratumor microbiome in BALT lymphoma using the third-generation next-generation sequencing (NGS) method.
Materials and Methods
DNAs were extracted from 12 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissues obtained from BALT lymphoma patients diagnosed between 1990 and 2016. 16S rRNA gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction. Amplicons were sequenced using a Nanopore platform. Next-generation sequencing analysis was performed to assess microbial profiles. For comparison, FFPE specimens from nine non-cancerous lung tissues were also analyzed.
Results
Specific bacterial families including Burkholderiaceae, Bacillaceae, and Microbacteriaceae were associated with BALT lymphoma by a linear discriminant analysis effect size approach. Although the number of specimens was limited, BALT lymphomas exhibited significantly higher microbial abundance and diversity with distinct microbial composition patterns and correlation networks than non-cancerous lung tissues.
Conclusion
This study provides the first insight into intratumor microbiome in BALT lymphoma using the third-generation NGS method. A distinct microbial composition suggests the presence of a unique tumor microenvironment of BALT lymphoma.

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Survival of Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with Risk Group–Based Protocol Changes: A Single-Center Experience with 460 Patients over a 20-Year Period: Na Hee Lee, Hee Young Ju, Eun Sang Yi, Young Bae Choi, Keon Hee Yoo, Hong Hoe Koo; Received February 6, 2024 Accepted September 21, 2024 Published online September 27, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.127 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Recent treatments for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are founded on risk stratification. We examined the survival rates and prognostic factors of patients over a 20-year period at a single institution.
Materials and Methods
This study analyzed patients diagnosed with ALL and treated at the Pediatric Department of Samsung Medical Center (SMC). Patients were categorized into standard-risk (SR), high-risk (HR), and very high-risk (VHR) groups. The SMC protocol for the HR group underwent two changes during the study period: a modified Children’s Cancer Group (CCG)-1882 protocol was used from 2000 to 2005, the Korean multicenter HR ALL-0601 protocol from 2006 to 2014, and the Korean multicenter HR ALL-1501 protocol from 2015 to 2019.
Results
Of the 460 patients, complete remission was achieved in 436 patients (94.8%). The 10-year overall survival rate (OS) was 83.8±1.9% for all patients. OS according to the SMC risk group was as follows: 95.9%±1.4% in the SR group, 83.8%±3.6% in the HR group, and 66.2%±6.9% in the VHR group. The 5-year OS within the HR group varied according to the treatment protocol: 73.9%±7.5%, in the modified CCG-1882 protocol, 83.0%±3.9%, in the 0601 protocol, and 96.2%±2.6%, in the 1501 protocol. For those aged 15 years and older, the OS was only 56.5%±13.1%. Relapse occurred in 71 patients (15.4%), and the OS after relapse was 37.7%±6.0%.
Conclusion
The treatment outcomes of patients with ALL improved markedly. However, there is a need to further characterize adolescents and young adult patients, as well as those who have experienced relapses.

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Presence of RB1 or Absence of LRP1B Mutation Predicts Poor Overall Survival in Patients with Gastric Neuroendocrine Carcinoma and Mixed Adenoneuroendocrine Carcinoma: In Hye Song, Bokyung Ahn, Young Soo Park, Deok Hoon Kim, Seung-Mo Hong; Received July 19, 2024 Accepted September 25, 2024 Published online September 27, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.667 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) of the stomach are extremely rare, but fatal. However, our understanding of the genetic alterations in gastric NECs is limited. We aimed to evaluate genomic and clinicopathological characteristics of gastric NECs and mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinomas (MANECs).
Materials and Methods
Fourteen gastric NECs, three gastric MANECs, and 1,381 gastric adenocarcinomas were retrieved from the departmental next-generation sequencing database between 2017 and 2022. Clinicopathological parameters and next-generation sequencing test results were retrospectively collected and reviewed.
Results
Gastric NECs and MANECs frequently harbored alterations of TP53, RB1, SMARCA4, RICTOR, APC, TOP1, SLX4, EGFR, BRCA2, and TERT. In contrast, gastric adenocarcinomas exhibited alterations of TP53, CDH1, LRP1B, ARID1A, ERBB2, GNAS, CCNE1, NOTCH, and MYC. Mutations of AKT3, RB1, and SLX4; amplification of BRCA2 and RICTOR; and deletion of ADAMTS18, DDX11, KLRC3, KRAS, MAX, NFKBIA, NUDT7, and RB1 were significantly more frequent in gastric NECs and MANECs than in gastric adenocarcinomas. The presence of LRP1B mutation was significantly associated with longer overall survival (OS), whereas RB1 mutation and advanced TNM stage were associated with shorter OS.
Conclusion
We identified frequently mutated genes and potential predictors of survival in patients with gastric NECs and MANECs.

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The Role of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Managing Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Patients: Ji Yun Lee, Ju-Hyun Lee, Woochan Park, Jeongmin Seo, Minsu Kang, Eun Hee Jung, Sang-A Kim, Koung Jin Suh, Ji-Won Kim, Se Hyun Kim, Jeong-Ok Lee, Jin Won Kim, Yu Jung Kim, Keun-Wook Lee, Jee Hyun Kim, Soo-Mee Bang; Received August 5, 2024 Accepted September 19, 2024 Published online September 20, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.738 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
Thrombosis and bleeding significantly affect morbidity and mortality in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). The efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in MPN patients remain uncertain.
Materials and Methods
We conducted a large, retrospective, nationwide cohort study using the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database from 2010 to 2021.
Results
Out of the 368 MPN patients included in the final analysis, 62.8% were treated with DOACs for atrial fibrillation (AF), and 37.2% for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The AF group was statistically older with higher CHA2DS2-VASc (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 years, diabetes mellitus, prior stroke, transient ischemic attack, or thromboembolism, vascular disease, age 65-74 years, sex category [female]) scores compared to the VTE group. Antiplatelet agents were used in 51.1% of cases, and cytoreductive drugs in 79.3%, with hydroxyurea being the most common (64.9%). The median follow-up was 22.3 months, with 1-year cumulative incidence rates of thrombosis and bleeding at 11.1% and 3.7%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified CHA2DS2-VASc scores ≥ 3 (hazard ratio [HR], 3.48), concomitant antiplatelet use (HR, 2.57), and cytoreduction (HR, 2.20) as significant thrombosis risk factors but found no significant predictors for major bleeding.
Conclusion
Despite the limitations of retrospective data, DOAC treatment in MPN patients seems effective and has an acceptable bleeding risk.

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Survey of Clinical Practice in Chronic Myeloproliferative Neoplasms in Croatia: A Study by the MPN Working Group Party of the Croatian Cooperative Group for Hematologic Diseases (KROHEM)
Ivan Krecak, Marko Lucijanic, Rajko Kusec
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2025; 14(5): 1524. CrossRef

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1 Crossref

Stage Evaluation of Cystic Duct Cancer: Yeseul Kim, You-Na Sung, Haesung Jung, Kyung Jin Lee, Daegwang Yoo, Sun-Young Jun, HyungJun Cho, Shin Hwang, Woohyung Lee, Seung-Mo Hong; Received July 16, 2024 Accepted September 15, 2024 Published online September 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.660 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Cystic duct cancers (CDCs) have been classified as extrahepatic bile duct cancers or gallbladder cancers (GBCs); however, it is unclear whether their clinical behavior is similar to that of distal extrahepatic bile duct cancers (DBDCs) or GBCs.
Materials and Methods
T category of the CDCs was classified using current T category scheme of the GBCs and DBDCs, and clinicopathological factors were compared among 38 CDCs, 345 GBCs, and 349 DBDCs. We modified Nakata’s classifications (type 1, confined within cystic duct [CD]; combined types 2-4, extension beyond CD) and compared them.
Results
No significant overall survival (OS) difference was observed between the patients with CDC, GBC, and DBDC. The T category of GBC staging was more accurate at distinguishing OS in patients with CDC than the DBDC staging. Patients with T3 CDC and GBC showed a significant OS difference when using the T category for GBC staging, while those with T1-T2 CDC and GBC showed no significant difference. In contrast, the T category of DBDC staging did not show any significant OS difference between patients with T1-T2 CDC and DBDC or T3 CDC and DBDC. Patients with type 1 CDC had significantly better OS than those with combined types.
Conclusion
Unlike GBCs and DBDCs, CDCs exhibit distinct clinicopathological characteristics. The OS is better when the CDC confines within the CD, compared to when it extends beyond it. Therefore, we propose a new T category scheme (T1, confined to CD; T2, invaded beyond CD) for better classifying CDCs.

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Target-Enhanced Whole-Genome Sequencing Shows Clinical Validity Equivalent to Commercially Available Targeted Oncology Panel: Sangmoon Lee, Jin Roh, Jun Sung Park, Islam Oguz Tuncay, Wonchul Lee, Jung-Ah Kim, Brian Baek-Lok Oh, Jong-Yeon Shin, Jeong Seok Lee, Young Seok Ju, Ryul Kim, Seongyeol Park, Jaemo Koo, Hansol Park, Joonoh Lim, Erin Connolly-Strong, Tae-Hwan Kim, Yong Won Choi, Mi Sun Ahn, Hyun Woo Lee, Seokhwi Kim, Jang-Hee Kim, Minsuk Kwon; Received February 3, 2024 Accepted September 12, 2024 Published online September 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.114 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Cancer poses a significant global health challenge, demanding precise genomic testing for individualized treatment strategies. Targeted-panel sequencing (TPS) has improved personalized oncology but often lacks comprehensive coverage of crucial cancer alterations. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) addresses this gap, offering extensive genomic testing. This study demonstrates the medical potential of WGS.
Materials and Methods
This study evaluates target-enhanced WGS (TE-WGS), a clinical-grade WGS method sequencing both cancer and matched normal tissues. Forty-nine patients with various solid cancer types underwent both TE-WGS and TruSight Oncology 500 (TSO500), one of the mainstream TPS approaches.
Results
TE-WGS detected all variants reported by TSO500 (100%, 498/498). A high correlation in variant allele fractions was observed between TE-WGS and TSO500 (r=0.978). Notably, 223 variants (44.8%) within the common set were discerned exclusively by TE-WGS in peripheral blood, suggesting their germline origin. Conversely, the remaining subset of 275 variants (55.2%) were not detected in peripheral blood using the TE-WGS, signifying them as bona fide somatic variants. Further, TE-WGS provided accurate copy number profiles, fusion genes, microsatellite instability, and homologous recombination deficiency scores, which were essential for clinical decision-making.
Conclusion
TE-WGS is a comprehensive approach in personalized oncology, matching TSO500’s key biomarker detection capabilities. It uniquely identifies germline variants and genomic instability markers, offering additional clinical actions. Its adaptability and cost-effectiveness underscore its clinical utility, making TE-WGS a valuable tool in personalized cancer treatment.

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Choosing Wisely between Radiotherapy Dose-Fractionation Schedules: The Molecular Graded Prognostic Assessment for Elderly Glioblastoma Patients: Hye In Lee, Jina Kim, In Ah Kim, Joo Ho Lee, Jaeho Cho, Rifaquat Rahman, Geoffrey Fell, Chan Woo Wee, Hong In Yoon; Received July 22, 2024 Accepted September 10, 2024 Published online September 11, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.680 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to develop a graded prognostic assessment (GPA) model integrating genomic characteristics for elderly patients with glioblastoma (eGBM), and to compare the efficacy of different radiotherapy schedules.
Materials and Methods
This multi-institutional retrospective study included patients aged ≥ 65 years who underwent surgical resection followed by radiotherapy with or without temozolomide (TMZ) for newly diagnosed eGBM. Based on the significant factors identified in the multivariate analysis for overall survival (OS), the molecular GPA for eGBM (eGBM-molGPA) was established.
Results
A total of 334 and 239 patients who underwent conventionally fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT) and hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) were included, respectively, with 86% of patients receiving TMZ-based chemoradiation. With a median follow-up of 17.4 months (range, 3.3 to 149.9 months), the median OS was 18.7 months for CFRT+TMZ group, 15.1 months for HFRT+TMZ group, and 10.4 months for radiotherapy alone group (CFRT+TMZ vs. HFRT+TMZ: hazard ratio [HR], 1.52; p < 0.001 and CFRT+TMZ vs. radiotherapy alone: HR, 2.52; p < 0.001). In a combined analysis with the NOA-08 and Nordic trials, CFRT+TMZ group exhibited the highest survival rates among all treatment groups. The eGBM-molGPA, which integrated four clinical and three molecular parameters, stratified patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups. CFRT+TMZ significantly improved OS compared to HFRT+TMZ or radiotherapy alone in the low-risk (p=0.023) and intermediate-risk groups (p < 0.001). However, in the high-risk group, there was no significant difference in OS between treatment options (p=0.770).
Conclusion
CFRT+TMZ may be more effective than HFRT+TMZ or radiotherapy alone for selected eGBM patients. The novel eGBM-molGPA model can guide treatment selection for this patient population.

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Histological Assessment and Interobserver Agreement in Major Pathologic Response for Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer with Neoadjuvant Therapy: Sungjin Kim, Jeonghyo Lee, Jin-Haeng Chung; Received July 19, 2024 Accepted September 8, 2024 Published online September 9, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.670 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Major pathologic response (MPR), defined as ≤ 10% of residual viable tumor (VT), is a prognostic factor in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after neoadjuvant therapy. This study evaluated interobserver reproducibility in assessing MPR, compared area-weighted and unweighted VT (%) calculation, and determined optimal VT (%) cutoffs across histologic subtypes for survival prediction.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study included 108 patients with NSCLC who underwent surgical resection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital between 2009-2018. Three observers with varying expertise independently assessed tumor bed and VT (%) based on digital whole-slide images.
Results
Reproducibility in tumor bed delineation was reduced in squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC) with smaller tumor bed, although overall concordance was high (Dice coefficient, 0.96; intersection-over-union score, 0.92). Excellent agreement was achieved for VT (%) (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.959) and MPR using 10% cutoff (Fleiss’ kappa=0.911). Shifting between area-weighted and unweighted VT (%) showed only one case differing in MPR status out of 81 cases. The optimal cutoff was 10% for both adenocarcinoma (ADC) and SqCC. MPR+ was observed in 18 patients (17%), with SqCC showing higher MPR+ rates (p=0.044), lower VT (%) (p < 0.001), and better event-free survival (p=0.015) than ADC. MPR+ significantly improved overall survival (p=0.023), event-free survival (p=0.001), and lung cancer-specific survival (p=0.012).
Conclusion
While MPR assessment demonstrated robust reproducibility with minimal impact from the tumor bed, attention is warranted when evaluating smaller tumor beds in SqCC. A 10% cutoff reliably predicted survival across histologic subtypes with higher interobserver reproducibility.

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Application of Machine Learning Algorithms for Risk Stratification and Efficacy Evaluation in Cervical Cancer Screening Among the ASCUS/LSIL Population: Evidence from the Korean HPV Cohort Study: Heekyoung Song, Hong Yeon Lee, Shin Ah Oh, Jaehyun Seong, Soo Young Hur, Youn Jin Choi; Received May 15, 2024 Accepted September 5, 2024 Published online September 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.465 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
We assessed human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype-based risk stratification and the efficacy of cytology testing for cervical cancer screening in patients with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS)/low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL).
Materials and Methods
Between 2010 and 2021, we monitored 1,273 HPV-positive women with ASCUS/LSIL every 6 months for up to 60 months. HPV infections were categorized as persistent (HPV positivity consistently observed post-enrollment), negative (HPV negativity consistently observed post-enrollment), or non-persistent (neither consistently positive nor negative). HPV genotypes were grouped into high-risk (Hr) groups 1 (types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58) and 2 (types 35, 39, 51, 56, 59, 66, and 68) and a low-risk group. Hr1 was subdivided into types (a) 16 and 18; (b) 31, 33, and 45; and (c) 52 and 58. Cox regression and machine learning (ML) algorithms were used to analyze progression rates.
Results
Among 1,273 participants, 17.6% with persistent HPV infections experienced disease progression versus no progression in the HPV-negative group (p < 0.001). Cox analysis revealed the highest hazard ratios (HRs) for Hr1-a (11.6, p < 0.001), followed by Hr1-b (9.26, p < 0.001) and Hr1-c (7.21, p < 0.001). HRs peaked at 12-24 months, with Hr1-a maintaining significance at 24-36 months (10.7, p=0.034). ML analysis identified the final cytology change pattern as the most significant factor, with 14-15 months the optimal time for detecting progression from the first examination.
Conclusion
In ASCUS/LSIL cases, follow-up strategies should be based on HPV risk types. Annual follow-up was the most effective monitoring for detecting progression/regression.

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Geneticsbiologiesingle cell and expression analysis for erectile dysfunction and cervical cancer targets
Tengfei Zhao, Yangyang Li, Huixue Liu, Chongxin Tong
Discover Oncology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

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Association between Levetiracetam Use and Survival in Patients with Glioblastoma: A Nationwide Population-Based Study: Yeonhu Lee, Eunyoung Lee, Tae Hoon Roh, Se-Hyuk Kim; Received April 9, 2024 Accepted September 5, 2024 Published online September 6, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.355 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to investigate whether levetiracetam (LEV), the most used antiepileptic drug, influences survival in patients with glioblastoma (GBM), using a national database.
Materials and Methods
This study used data from the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment database. Patients diagnosed with GBM between 2007-2018 treated with standard therapy were included. The study population was divided into long-term (≥ 60 days) and short-term (< 30 days) LEV groups. A separate long-term valproic acid (VPA) group (≥ 60 days) was identified for comparison. Demographics, disease characteristics, and treatment parameters were collected. Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression were used to compare survival outcomes between the groups.
Results
Overall, 2,971 patients were included, with 1,319 and 1,652 in the short-term and long-term LEV groups, respectively. The median overall survival (OS) for the entire population was 19.15 months post-surgery. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a significantly longer median OS in the long-term LEV group versus the short-term LEV group. After adjusting for confounders, Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed an association of long-term LEV use with improved survival, which was also observed in a subgroup analysis of patients without preoperative seizure history. The long-term LEV group demonstrated longer median OS, compared with the long-term VPA group.
Conclusion
Our nationwide population-based study found an association between long-term LEV use and improved survival in patients with GBM, regardless of preoperative seizure history. Prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and investigate the potential impact of LEV on the survival outcomes of patients with GBM.

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Association of Shorter Time to Recurrence and Recurrence-Free Survival with Transthoracic Lung Biopsy in Stage I Lung Cancer: Kum Ju Chae, Hyunsook Hong, Hyungin Park, Soon Ho Yoon; Received June 15, 2024 Accepted August 30, 2024 Published online September 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.560 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
We aim to determine whether preoperative percutaneous needle aspiration or biopsy (PCNA/Bx) increases recurrence risk and reduces survival in stage I lung cancer patients, using a nationwide lung cancer registry.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively included 3,452 patients diagnosed with stage I lung cancer who underwent curative surgery between 2014 and 2019, as recorded in the Korean Association of Lung Cancer Registry. To balance the characteristics of patients with and without PCNA/Bx, we applied inverse probability of treatment weighting. We used cumulative incidence plots and a weighted subdistribution hazard model to analyze time to recurrence. Recurrence-free survival and overall survival were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and weighted Cox proportional hazard ratio models.
Results
In patients with adenocarcinoma, the use of PCNA/Bx was associated with a 1.9-fold increase (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5 to 2.4) in the risk of recurrence and a 1.7-fold decrease (95% CI, 1.3 to 2.2) in recurrence-free survival. Subgroup analysis based on pathologic pleural invasion revealed that the risk of recurrence increased when PCNA/Bx was performed, with 2.1-fold (95% CI, 1.5 to 2.8) in patients without pleural invasion and 1.6-fold (95% CI, 1.0 to 2.4) in those with pleural invasion. No association was found between the use of PCNA/Bx and overall survival.
Conclusion
Preoperative PCNA/Bx was associated with increased recurrence risks in stage I adenocarcinoma, regardless of pathologic pleural invasion status. In early lung cancer cases where adenocarcinoma is strongly suspected and curative surgery is feasible, the use of transthoracic biopsy should be approached with caution.

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