Recommendations on the treatment of metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer: Patient selection.

The standard treatment for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) is now a combination of androgen deprivation therapy plus an androgen receptor-targeted therapy (abiraterone, apalutamide, enzalutamide or darolutamide), with or without chemotherapy (docetaxel). The selection of suitable patients for each therapeutic approach has become a determining factor to ensure efficacy and minimize side effects. This article combines recent clinical evidence with the accumulated experience of experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology and urology, to provide a comprehensive view and therapeutic recommendations for mHSPC.

Comparison of quality of life after radical treatment in prostate cancer: radical prostatectomy versus external radiotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess and compare the functional and quality of life results in patients treated with curative intent for localized prostate cancer during 2015 in our hospital. METHOD: 77 patients treated by radical prostatectomy or external radiotherapy with androgen deprivation were prospective enrolled. Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP) questionnaire at 3-year follow-up and Spanish Questionnaire on Quality of Life in Patients with Prostate Cancer (CAVIPRES-30) at diagnosis and at 3-year follow-up were registered. RESULTS: 68 patients were included, 39 patients treated by radical prostatectomy and 29 received external radiotherapy with androgen deprivation. Among the operated patients, 61.5% were dry and 17.9% use three or more daily pads, compared to 72.4% and 6.8%, respectively, in the radiotherapy group. 48.7% of prostatectomized patients reported very poor or no capacity to have a sufficiently rigid erection, compared to 69% of the radiated group. After surgery, 43.6% considered bad or very bad quality-of-life, compared to 68.9% in the radiotherapy group. In the comparison of the data of the pre- and post-treatment questionnaire can be seen that the patients had a superior perception before the procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Patients treated by surgery have a better perception of quality-of-life compared to those treated by radiotherapy.

OBJETIVO: Determinar y comparar los resultados funcionales y de calidad de vida de pacientes con cáncer de próstata tratados con intención curativa durante el año 2015 en nuestro centro. MÉTODO: Se incluyeron 77 pacientes sometidos a prostatectomía radical (PR) o radioterapia externa con terapia de deprivación androgénica (TDA). Se realizaron el Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP) tras 3 años de seguimiento y el Cuestionario Español de Calidad de Vida en Pacientes con Cáncer de Próstata (CAVIPRES-30) al diagnóstico y a los 3 años. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 68 pacientes, 39 con PR y 29 con radioterapia más TDA. De los pacientes intervenidos, el 61.5% están secos y el 17.9% usan tres o más compresas, diarias frente al 72.4% y el 6.8%, respectivamente, en el grupo de radioterapia. El 48.7% de los prostatectomizados refieren erecciones muy malas o ninguna, frente al 69% de los radiados. Tras la cirugía, el 43.6% refieren mala o muy mala calidad de vida, frente al 68.9% de los radiados. En la comparación de los datos del cuestionario pre- y postratamiento, los pacientes tenían una percepción superior antes del procedimiento. CONCLUSIONES: Los pacientes tratados mediante cirugía tienen una mejor percepción de su calidad de vida relacionada con la salud que los radiados.

Childhood cancer survivors: current challenges.

Rates of childhood cancer survival in developed countries have risen to over 80-85 %. In consequence, the population of childhood cancer survivors (CCS) has grown considerably. Nevertheless, CCS present a high morbidity and mortality due to cancer or its treatment, with an increased risk of premature mortality, second primary tumors and late side effects, both physical and psychosocial, all of which decrease the quality of life. Long-term follow-up (LTFU) of CCS is recommended to prevent, detect and treat those health problems. Despite the advances achieved, the management of CCS is still not optimal. Among the areas for improvement discussed in this manuscript are: (1) Quantifying the real burden of morbimortality, by implementing new frequency measures (mean cumulative count and cumulative burden), to obtain more accurate assessments, and using simulation models, to determine individual risks; (2) Assessing the impact of risk factors for late side effects, related to the patient, tumor type, treatments, lifestyle, comorbidities, genetics and ageing; (3) Considering the impact of the international harmonisation of long-term follow-up guidelines, to generate homogeneous, evidence-based recommendations and an individualized LTFU and, (4) Challenges to LTFU implementation, considering models of care adapted to patient risk and needs, with special attention to the transition to adult-care follow-up. Finally, we comment on the situation of CCS in Spain and consider future prospects for improving the health and quality of life of this population.

Is trimodal therapy the current standard for muscle-invasive bladder cancer?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence and future perspectives of bladder-sparing treatment for MIBC. METHODS: A non-systematic literature search in Medline/Pubmed was performed in October 2023 with the following keywords "bladder cancer", "bladder-sparing", "trimodal therapy", "chemoradiation", "biomarkers", "immunotherapy", "neoadjuvant chemotherapy", "radiotherapy". RESULTS: Urology guidelines recommend radical cystectomy as the standard curative treatment for muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer, reserving radiotherapy for patients who are unfit or who want to preserve their bladder. Given the morbidity and mortality of cystectomy and its impact on quality of life and bladder function, modern oncologic therapies are increasingly oriented toward organ preservation and maximizing functional outcomes while maintaining treatment efficacy. Trimodal therapy, which incorporates maximal transurethral resection followed by radiotherapy with concurrent radiosensitizing chemotherapy, is an effective regimen for bladder function preservation in well-selected patients. Despite the absence of comparative data from randomized trials, the two approaches seem to provide comparable oncologic outcomes. Studies are evaluating the expansion of eligibility criteria for trimodal therapy, the optimization of radiotherapy and immunotherapy delivery to further improve outcomes, and the validation of biomarkers to guide bladder preservation. CONCLUSIONS: Trimodal therapy has shown acceptable outcomes for bladder preservation; therefore, it provides a valid treatment option in well-selected patients.

Thyroid abnormalities in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma: The importance of close surveillance.

INTRODUCTION: Survival in paediatric patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) has increased over the last decades. However, these patients are at increased risk of developing late thyroid sequelae due to the treatment with irradiation and alkylating agents. METHODS: We conducted an observational and retrospective study in patients with a diagnosis of HL between 2007 and 2022, in a hospital that is a paediatric oncology reference centre, through the review of electronic health records. We collected data on demographic (age, sex), clinical, radiological and histopathological variables, the dosage of alkylating agents and radiotherapy (RT) and on thyroid disorders using Microsoft Excel. The data analysis was conducted with SPSS version 17, using the Fisher exact test for qualitative data, a nonparametric test for quantitative data and Kaplan-Meier curves. RESULTS: Sixty patients received a diagnosis of HL from 2007 to 2022. The median duration of follow-up was 78.5 months. There were 4 detected cases of hypothyroidism, 5 of thyroid nodules and 1 of subclinical hyperthyroidism. Treatment with RT was significantly associated with the development of hypothyroidism (P= .026), thyroid nodules (P= .01) and thyroid disease overall (P= .003). We estimated that the risk of thyroid disease increased 8-fold with each additional Grey received (hazard ratio, 1.081; 95% CI, 1.014-1.152; P= .017). CONCLUSION: Hodgkin lymphoma patients treated with RT are at increased risk of late thyroid disorders, mainly hypothyroidism and malignancy. This risk is greater the higher the RT dosage and the longer the follow-up. We did not find evidence of an association between the use of alkylating agents and an increase in the risk of thyroid disease.

Computational Model Based on Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Skin Scanning to Identify and Quantify Acute Radiation Dermatitis (ARD): A Prospective Diagnostic Study.

BACKGROUND: Acute radiation dermatitis (ARD) is the most widely reported radiotherapy-induced adverse event. Currently, there is no objective or reliable method to measure ARD. OBJECTIVE: Our main objective was to identify and quantify the effects of radiotherapy with a computational model using optical coherence tomography (OCT) skin scanning. Secondary objectives included determining the ARD impact of different radiotherapeutic schemes and adjuvant topical therapies. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, single-center case series study in a tertiary referral center of patients with breast cancer who were eligible for whole breast radiotherapy (WBRT). RESULTS: A total of 39 women were included and distributed according to the radiotherapeutic schemes (15, 20, and 25 fractions). A computational model was designed to quantitatively analyze OCT findings. After radiotherapy, OCT scanning was more sensitive revealing vascularization changes in 84.6% of the patients (vs 69.2% of the patients with ARD by clinical examination). OCT quantified an increased vascularization at the end of WBRT (P<.05) and a decrease after 3 months (P=.032). Erythematous skin changes by OCT were more pronounced in the 25-fraction regime. CONCLUSION: An OCT computational model allowed for the identification and quantification of vascularization changes on irradiated skin, even in the absence of clinical ARD. This may allow the design of standardized protocols for ARD beyond the skin color of the patients involved.

Clinical practice guideline on the management of vestibular schwannoma.

INTRODUCTION: Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is the most common tumour of the cerebellopontine angle. The greater accessibility to radiological tests has increased its diagnosis. Taking into account the characteristics of the tumour, the symptoms and the age of the patient, three therapeutic strategies have been proposed: observation, surgery or radiotherapy. Choosing the most appropriate for each patient is a frequent source of controversy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This paper includes an exhaustive literature review of issues related to VS that can serve as a clinical guide in the management of patients with these lesions. The presentation has been oriented in the form of questions that the clinician usually asks himself and the answers have been written and/or reviewed by a panel of national and international experts consulted by the Otology Commission of the SEORL-CCC. RESULTS: A list has been compiled containing the 13 most controversial thematic blocks on the management of VS in the form of 50 questions, and answers to all of them have been sought through a systematic literature review (articles published on PubMed and Cochrane Library between 1992 and 2023 related to each thematic area). Thirty-three experts, led by the Otology Committee of SEORL-CCC, have analyzed and discussed all the answers. In Annex 1, 14 additional questions divided into 4 thematic areas can be found. CONCLUSIONS: This clinical practice guideline on the management of VS offers agreed answers to the most common questions that are asked about this tumour. The absence of sufficient prospective studies means that the levels of evidence on the subject are generally medium or low. This fact increases the interest of this type of clinical practice guidelines prepared by experts.

Ocular neuromyotonia: an unusual case after radiotheraphy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Ocular neuromyotonia (ONM) is an infrequent disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of binocular diplopia caused by paroxysmal contraction of one or several extraocular muscles innervated by the same cranial nerve. It can be triggered spontaneously or caused by prolonged contraction of specific eye muscle(s) and is usually related to a local intracranial radiotherapy antecedent. We report the case of a 46-year-old woman who developed intermittent episodes of binocular diplopia eight years after radiotherapy for a nasopharyngeal carcinoma. After a complete neuro-ophthalmic assessment we diagnosed the case as an abducens nerve neuromyotonia. Although it is infrequent, radiotherapy to the nasopharynx is a possible cause of ONM, due to the proximity to the base of the skull and extraocular motor nerve pathways, especially that of the VI cranial nerve, as is the case presented in this article, about a patient whose history is a nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with local radiotherapy.

Oncological results of salvage treatment in patients with oropharynx carcinoma treated with radiotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the possibilities of salvage after local recurrence in patients with oropharyngeal carcinomas treated with radiotherapy, and to analyse the prognostic factors related to the final control of the disease. METHODS: Retrospective study of 596 patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma treated with radiotherapy during the period 1991-2018. RESULTS: One hundred and eighty-one patients (30.4%) had a local recurrence. Of the patients with a local recurrence, 51 (28.2%) were treated with salvage surgery. Variables that were associated with the patient not receiving salvage surgery were age greater than 75 years, tumour location in the posterior hypopharyngeal wall, an initial tumour extent cT4, and a recurrence-free interval of less than 6 months. Five-year specific survival of patients treated with salvage surgery was 19.1% (95% CI: 7.3%-30.9%). Variables that were related to specific survival were extent of recurrence and status of resection margins. Final tumour control was not achieved in any of the patients with extensive recurrence (rpT3-4, n = 25) or positive resection margins (n = 22). CONCLUSION: Patients with oropharyngeal carcinomas treated with radiotherapy with local tumour recurrence have a limited prognosis. Most patients (71.8%) were not considered candidates for salvage surgery. The 5-year specific survival of patients treated with salvage surgery was 19.1%.

Factors associated with the quality of life of women undergoing radiotherapy / Factores asociados a la calidad de vida de mujeres en radioterapia / Fatores associados à qualidade de vida de mulheres submetidas à radioterapia

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the skin characteristics and quality of life of patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Method: Cross-sectional study conducted with 60 women. The classification scales of skin changes resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation (RTOG) and the validated versions in Portuguese of those that classified skin types (Fitzpatrick), symptoms (RISRAS) and quality of life (DLQI) were applied. in the period between December 2021 and October 2022. For data analysis, Fisher's Exact Test, Chi-Square and Asymptotic General Independence Test were used. Results: 100% of patients had skin irritation. As the treatment progressed and the radiodermatitis appeared or worsened, there was a tendency for the intensity of signs and symptoms to increase, such as: sensitivity, discomfort or pain, itching, burning and heat, dry and wet desquamation, which may have impacted the quality of life and reflected in other aspects, such as: shopping activities or outings (p=0.0020), social activities or leisure activities (p=0.0420). Conclusion: Radiodermatitis is a common condition that affects women with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, skin characteristics and quality of life of patients affected during this treatment.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar las características de la piel y la calidad de vida de pacientes con cáncer de mama en tratamiento con radioterapia. Método: Estudio transversal con 60 mujeres. Se aplicaron la escala de clasificación de alteraciones cutáneas por exposición a radiaciones ionizantes (RTOG) y las versiones validadas en portugués de las que clasificaban tipos de piel (Fitzpatrick), síntomas (RISRAS) y calidad de vida (DLQI) en el período comprendido entre diciembre 2021 y octubre de 2022. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizaron el Test Exacto de Fisher, Chi-Cuadrado y el Test de Independencia General Asintótica. Resultados: El 100% de los pacientes evaluados sobre la piel. A medida que avanzaba el tratamiento y aparecía o empeoraba la radiodermatitis, hubo tendencia a aumentar la intensidad de los signos y síntomas, tales como: sensibilidad, malestar o dolor, visualización, ardor y calor, descamación seca y húmeda, que pudieron haber tenido una impacto en la calidad de vida y reflejado en otros aspectos, como: actividades de compra o salidas (p=0,0020), actividades sociales o de ocio (p=0,0420). Conclusión: La radiodermatitis es una afección común que afecta a mujeres con cáncer de mama, sometidas a radioterapia, las características de la piel y la calidad de vida de las pacientes afectadas durante este tratamiento.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as características da pele e a qualidade de vida de pacientes com câncer de mama submetidas à radioterapia. Método: Estudo transversal com 60 mulheres. Foram aplicadas as escalas de classificação das alterações cutâneas decorrentes da exposição à radiação ionizante (RTOG) e as versões validadas em português das que classificaram os tipos de pele (Fitzpatrick), os sintomas (RISRAS) e a qualidade de vida (DLQI), no período entre dezembro de 2021 e outubro de 2022. Para a análise de dados, foram utilizados os Testes Exato de Fisher, Qui-Quadrado e Teste de Independência Geral Assintótica. Resultados: 100% das pacientes apresentaram irritação na pele. À medida que o tratamento avançou e que a radiodermatite surgiu ou se agravou, houve maior tendência de intensidade de sinais e sintomas, como: sensibilidade, desconforto ou dor, coceira, queimação e calor, descamação seca e úmida, o que pode ter impactado na qualidade de vida e refletido em outros aspectos, como: atividades de compras ou passeios (p=0,0020), programação social ou atividade de lazer (p=0,0420). Conclusão: A radiodermatite é uma condição comum que afeta as mulheres com câncer de mama submetidas à radioterapia, as características da pele e a qualidade de vida das pacientes são afetadas durante esse tratamento.

Sobrevida del cáncer glótico en estadio inicial en 4 centros hospitalarios de Uruguay / Survival of glottic cancer in the initial stage in 4 hospital centers in Uruguay / Sobrevivência de câncer glótico em estágio inicial em 4 hospitais uruguaios

Introducción: El cáncer de laringe es el tumor maligno de mayor prevalencia en la Otorrinolaringología. La topografía glótica es la más frecuente en Uruguay y suele detectarse en estadios tempranos dada la manifestación precoz y sostenida de disfonía. El objetivo de este estudio es describir la sobrevida libre de enfermedad (SLE) y la sobrevida global (SG) de los pacientes con cáncer de laringe glótico en estadio T1N0M0 en 4 instituciones de Montevideo. Metodología: Se analizó de forma retrospectiva la SG y SLE de 55 pacientes diagnosticados con cáncer de glotis T1 entre los años 2009 y 2019. Para el cálculo de la sobrevida se utilizó el método de Kaplan-Meier. Se estudió además el efecto de variables pronósticas de interés sobre la SG mediante análisis univariado y multivariado. Resultados: En la muestra analizada la SG de los pacientes con cáncer glótico T1N0M0 fue como media de 7.706 años (IC 95% 6.63 - 8.78). A los 5 años, la SG fue de 77.5% (± 7%) y de 62% (± 9.8%) a los 10 años. La SLE para todos los pacientes correspondió al 74.6% (± 7.5%) y 63.1% (± 9.8%), a 5 y 10 años respectivamente. No se alcanzaron las medianas de SG ni de SLE para los grupos. Conclusiones: Los valores de SG y SLE medios obtenidos en nuestro medio son comparables a los valores reportados en la bibliografía internacional. No se alcanzó la mediana de SG ni de SLE, por lo que se puede afirmar que ésta enfermedad tiene, cuando se realiza el tratamiento adecuado, un buen pronóstico vital a los 10 años. Se requiere un seguimiento más largo para determinar las medianas de SG y SLE de los grupos en estudio.

Introduction: Laryngeal cancer is the most prevalent malignant tumor in Otorhinolaryngology. Glottic topography is the most frequent in Uruguay and is usually detected in early stages given the early and sustained manifestation of dysphonia. The objective of this study is to analyze disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with stage T1N0M0 glottic laryngeal cancer at 4 institutions in Montevideo. Methodology: The mean OS and DFS of 55 patients diagnosed with T1 glottic cancer between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate survival. The prognostic effect of certain variables of interest on OS was also studied using univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: In this study, mean odds survival (OS) for T1N0M0 glottic cancer was 7.706 years (CI 95% 6.63 - 8.78). At 5 years, OS was 77.5% (± 7%) and at 10 years was 62% (± 9.8%). Disease free survival (DFS) was 74.6% ± (7.5%) at 5 years and 63.1% (± 9.8%), at 10 years. Median OS and DFS for the groups were not reached. Conclusions: OS and DFS in our medium is comparable to that reported in the international literature. The median OS and DFS were not reached, so it can be stated that this disease has, when appropriate treatment is performed, a good vital prognosis at 10 years. Longer follow-up is required to determine the median OS and DFS of the study groups.

Introdução: O câncer de laringe é o tumor maligno mais prevalente na Otorrinolaringologia. A topografia glótica é a mais frequente no Uruguai e geralmente é detectada em estágios iniciais devido à manifestação precoce e sustentada da disfonia. O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a sobrevida livre de doença (DFS) e a sobrevida global (OS) de pacientes com câncer de laringe glótico estágio T1N0M0 em 4 instituições em Montevidéu. Metodologia: Foram analisados retrospectivamente o OS e DFS de 55 pacientes diagnosticados com câncer glótico T1 entre 2009 e 2019. O método de Kaplan-Meier foi usado para calcular a sobrevida. Resultados: Na amostra, a sobrevida global (OS) do câncer glótico T1N0M0 foi em média de 7.706 anos (IC 95% 6,63 - 8,78). Aos 5 anos, a OS foi de 77,5% (± 7%) e 62% (± 9,8%) aos 10 anos. A DFS para todos os pacientes correspondeu a 74,6% (± 7,5%) e 63,1% (± 9,8%), aos 5 e 10 anos, respectivamente. As medianas de OS e DFS para os grupos não foram alcançadas. Conclusões: OS e DFS em nosso ambiente é comparável ao relatado na literatura internacional. As medianas de SG e SLD não foram alcançadas, pelo que se pode afirmar que esta doença apresenta, quando realizado tratamento adequado, um bom prognóstico vital aos 10 anos. É necessário um acompanhamento mais longo para determinar a mediana da SG e da SLD dos grupos de estudo.

Effect of Survivin Down-Regulation by Egr1-Survivin shRNA Combined with Radiotherapy on Radiosensitivity of Esophageal Squamous Carcinoma / Efecto de la Regulación Negativa de Survivina por shRNA de Egr1-Survivina Combinado con Radioterapia sobre la Radiosensibilidad del Carcinoma Escamoso de Esófago

SUMMARY: This study is to investigate the effect of survivin down-regulation by Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy on the apoptosis and radiosensitivity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma ECA109 and KYSE150 cells. ECA109 and KYSE150 cells were transfected with Egr1-survivin shRNA, and then treated with radiotherapy. After 24 h, the mRNA and protein levels of Egr1-survivin were detected by qPCR and Western-Blot. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Western blot also detected levels of cleavaged Caspase 3 and Caspase 9. YM155 was used as a positive control to inhibit survivin expression. The levels of survivin mRNA and protein in ECA109 and KYSE150 cells treated with Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy were significantly lower than those of the blank control group, the empty vector control group, and, the YM155 + radiotherapy group (P<0.05). Meanwhile, after survivin down-regulation, the ratio of G2 to S phase of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells increased significantly, leading to significant G2 and S phase arrest. Additionally, apoptosis of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells increased significantly (P <0.01). Further, protein levels of cleavaged Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 significantly increased in Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy group. Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy can down-regulate survivin expression, which further increases the apoptosis, and enhances the radiosensitivity of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el efecto de la regulación negativa de survivina por el shRNA de Egr1-survivina combinado con radioterapia sobre la apoptosis y la radiosensibilidad del carcinoma de células escamosas de esófago Células ECA109 y KYSE150. Las células ECA109 y KYSE150 se transfectaron con shRNA de survivina Egr1 y luego se trataron con radioterapia. Después de 24 h, los niveles de ARNm y proteína de Egr1-survivina se detectaron mediante qPCR y Western-Blot. El ciclo celular y la apoptosis se detectaron mediante citometría de flujo. La transferencia Western también detectó niveles de Caspasa 3 y Caspasa 9 escindidas. Se usó YM155 como control positivo para inhibir la expresión de survivina. Los niveles de ARNm y proteína de survivina en células ECA109 y KYSE150 tratadas con shRNA de survivina Egr1 combinado con radioterapia fueron significativamente más bajos que los del grupo control en blanco, el grupo control de vector vacío y el grupo de radioterapia YM155 + (P <0,05). Mientras tanto, después de la regulación negativa de survivina, la proporción entre las fases G2 y S de las células ECA109 y KYSE150 aumentó significativamente, lo que llevó a una detención significativa de las fases G2 y S. Además, la apoptosis de las células ECA109 y KYSE150 aumentó significativamente (P <0,01). Además, los niveles de proteína de Caspasa 3 y Caspasa 9 escindidas aumentaron significativamente en el shRNA de Egr1- survivina combinado con el grupo de radioterapia. El shRNA de survivina de Egr1 combinado con radioterapia puede regular negativamente la expresión de survivina, lo que aumenta aún más la apoptosis y mejora la radiosensibilidad de las células ECA109 y KYSE150.

Predictive capacity of FAT1 transcriptional expression in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas treated with radiotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the predictive capacity at the primary location of the tumor of the FAT1 transcriptional expression in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiotherapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study from biopsies of the primary location of the tumor in 82 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiotherapy. The transcriptional expression of FAT1 was determined by RT-PCR. The level of FAT1 transcriptional expression was categorized according to the local control after radiotherapy using a recursive partitioning analysis. RESULTS: Elevated FAT1 transcriptional expression was associated with an increased risk of local recurrence after radiotherapy. Patients with a high expression level of FAT1 (n=18; 22.0%) had a 5-year local recurrence-free survival of 42.1% (95% CI: 18.6%-65.6%), whereas for patients with a low expression (n=64; 78.0%) it was 72.4% (95% CI: 61.5%-83.3%) (p=0.002). According to the result of a multivariate analysis, patients with a high FAT1 expression category had a 2.3-fold increased risk of local recurrence (95% CI: 1.0-5.2; p=0.043). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated FAT1 transcriptional expression was associated with a significantly increased risk of local recurrence in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiotherapy.

Resting energy expenditure changes after antineoplastic treatment in gynecological cancer: a prospective pilot study.

Introduction: Introduction: energy metabolism in cancer patients is influenced by different factors. However, the effect of antineoplastic treatment is not clear, especially in women. Objective: to evaluate resting energy expenditure (REE) by indirect calorimetry (IC) before (T0) and after (T1) first cycle period of antineoplastic therapy: radiotherapy (RT), chemotherapy (CT), and concomitant chemoradiation therapy (CRT), quality of life (QoL) and accuracy of REE were compared with international guidelines recommendations per kilogram (European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism [ESPEN]). Methods: an observational, longitudinal study was conducted in women with gynecological cancer diagnosis undergoing antineoplastic treatment: RT, CT and CRT. Weight loss, actual body weight and height were measured. REE was evaluated in T0-T1 and compared with ESPEN recommendations. Kruskal-Wallis test and Bland-Alman analysis were used to determine the agreement (± 10 % of energy predicted) of REE adjusted by physical activity (TEE) compared with ESPEN recommendations, respectively. Results: fifty-four women with cancer were included: 31.5 % (n = 17) for RT group, 31.5 % (n = 17) for CT group and 37 % (n = 20) for CRT group. REE showed statistical differences between T0 and T1 in the total population (p = 0.018), but these were not associated with anticancer therapy groups (p > 0.05). QoL had no significant changes after treatment (p > 0.05). Accuracy of 25 and 30 kcal/kg compared to TEE was less than 30 %. Conclusion: REE in women with gynecological cancer decreased after antineoplastic treatments but this is not associated with a particular antineoplastic therapy. It is needed to develop research to determine the accuracy of ESPEN recommendations with TEE estimated by IC and clinical factors in women with cancer.

Introducción: Antecedentes: el metabolismo energético en pacientes con cáncer está influenciado por diferentes factores. Sin embargo, el efecto sobre el tratamiento antineoplásico no es claro, especialmente en mujeres. Objetivo: evaluar el gasto energético en reposo (GER) mediante calorimetría indirecta (CI) antes (T0) y después (T1) del primer ciclo del tratamiento antineoplásico: radioterapia (RT), quimioterapia (QT) y quimio-radioterapia concomitante (QRT), calidad de vida (CdV) y precisión del GER con las con las recomendaciones internacionales por kilogramo de peso (European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism [ESPEN]). Métodos: se realizó un estudio longitudinal, observacional en mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer ginecológico en tratamiento antineoplásico. Se evaluó el GER en T0 y T1. Se midieron la pérdida de peso, el peso corporal y la talla. Se usaron las pruebas de Kruskal-Wallis y el análisis Bland-Altman para determinar la concordancia (± 10 % de GER) del REE ajustado por actividad física (TEE) en comparación con las recomendaciones de ESPEN. Resultados: se incluyeron 54 mujeres con cáncer; 31,5 % (n = 17) en el grupo RT, 31,5 % (n = 17) en el de QT y 37 % (n = 20) en el de QRT. GER mostró diferencias estadísticas entre T0 y T1 en la población total (p = 0,018); no se asoció con la terapia contra el cáncer (p > 0,05). La calidad de vida no tuvo cambios significativos después del tratamiento (p > 0,05). La precisión de 25 y 30 kcal/kg en comparación con TEE fue inferior al 30 %. Conclusión: el GER en mujeres con cáncer ginecológico disminuyó después del tratamiento antineoplásico, pero no se asoció a una terapia antineoplásica en particular. Es fundamental desarrollar más investigaciones que compare las recomendaciones de ESPEN y con los valores de la CI comparando más factores clínicos para ofrecer una intervención nutricional precisa.

Uso de barreras primarias en función del ángulo del gantry en búnker de radioterapia / Uso de barreiras primárias em função do ângulo do gantry em bunkers de radioterapia / Use of primary barriers as a function of gantry angle in radiotherapy bunker

Introducción: el diseño de los búnkeres de radioterapia es de vital importancia no solo por la seguridad radiológica, sino también por el costo que implican. Los cálculos de blindaje de las paredes primarias de los búnkeres de los aceleradores lineales de radioterapia se determinan a partir del factor de uso de estas paredes. Los documentos internacionales como el NCRP 151 utilizan para el cálculo de estas barreras un factor de uso igual a 0.25. Objetivo: estudiar la distribución del uso de las barreras primarias en función de los tratamientos realizados buscando contrastar la homogeneidad en el uso de las barreras. Material y Métodos: con los datos de pacientes realizados durante un año (2021) en dos aceleradores lineales, uno dual y otro monoenergético, se generó una base de datos con la que se calculó la frecuencia de uso de las paredes primarias. En el presente trabajo se evalúa la diferencia entre el uso dado de las barreras y las estimaciones de uso internacional. Resultados: se encuentra que en el acelerador dual en la energía de 15X los campos más usados tienen ángulos de gantry 0º, 90º, 180º, 270º, teniendo un peso acumulado aproximado al 65% al igual que la carga de trabajo para esos ángulos, esto implica que los ángulos diferentes a estos tienen un uso muy inferior al previsto por el cálculo inicial. En el acelerador dual en la energía de 6X el campo más usado es a 0º teniendo un peso aproximado al 14%, pero la carga de trabajo a 0º no se diferencia apreciablemente del resto de los ángulos ya que la distribución no tiene direcciones preferenciales, ninguno de los valores llega a 10% que concuerda con el uso homogéneo de la barrera. En el acelerador monoenergético el peso relativo de los ángulos de 90º y 270º en el uso de las barreras es aproximadamente 34% para cada una, superior al 25% estimado inicialmente. Conclusiones: las barreras primarias de los búnkeres de radioterapia tienen espesores marcados por el cálculo de blindaje, los cuales se pueden hacer basados en documentos internacionales que son referencia del tema. Se considera en las referencias para la barrera primaria un factor de uso igual para las mismas, sin embargo en la práctica clínica se pueden tener un factor de uso no uniforme respondiendo a los tipos de tratamientos que se designen realizar en el equipo. Esta realidad abre la puerta para plantear blindajes optimizados que podrían generar búnkeres más económicos y mejor utilización del espacio de acuerdo a las condiciones dadas para cada caso en particular.

Introduction: The design of radiotherapy bunkers is of vital importance not only for radiation safety, but also for the cost involved. The shielding calculations of the primary walls of radiotherapy linear accelerator bunkers are determined from the use factor of these walls. International documents such as NCRP 151 use for the calculation of these barriers a usage factor equal to 0.25. Objective: to study the distribution of the use of primary barriers according to the treatments performed, seeking to contrast the homogeneity in the use of the barriers. Material and Methods: with the data of patients performed during one year (2021) in two linear accelerators, one dual and the other monoenergetic, a database was generated with which the frequency of use of the primary walls was calculated. The present work evaluates the difference between the given use of the barriers and the estimates of international use. Results: it is found that in the dual accelerator at 15X energy the most used fields have gantry angles 0º, 90º, 180º, 270º, having an accumulated weight of approximately 65% as well as the workload for those angles, this implies that the angles different from these have a use much lower than the one foreseen by the initial calculation. In the dual accelerator at 6X energy the most used field is at 0º having an approximate weight of 14%, but the workload at 0º is not appreciably different from the rest of the angles since the distribution does not have preferential directions, none of the values reaches 10% which is consistent with the homogeneous use of the barrier. In the monoenergetic accelerator, the relative weight of the 90º and 270º angles in the use of the barriers is approximately 34% for each one, higher than the 25% initially estimated. Conclusions: the primary barriers of radiotherapy bunkers have thicknesses marked by the shielding calculation, which can be made based on international documents that are a reference on the subject. It is considered in the references for the primary barrier an equal use factor for them, however in clinical practice they can have a non-uniform use factor responding to the types of treatments that are designed to be performed in the equipment. This reality opens the door to propose optimized shielding that could generate more economical bunkers and better use of space according to the conditions given for each particular case.

Introdução: O projeto de bunkers de radioterapia é de vital importância não apenas para a segurança da radiação, mas também para o custo envolvido. Os cálculos de blindagem para as paredes primárias dos bunkers de aceleradores lineares de radioterapia são determinados com base no fator de uso dessas paredes. Documentos internacionais, como o NCRP 151, usam um fator de uso igual a 0,25 para o cálculo dessas barreiras. Objetivo: estudar a distribuição do uso de barreiras primárias de acordo com os tratamentos realizados, buscando contrastar a homogeneidade no uso das barreiras. Material e métodos: com os dados de pacientes tratados durante um ano (2021) em dois aceleradores lineares, um dual e outro monoenergético, foi gerado um banco de dados com o qual foi calculada a frequência de uso das paredes primárias. Este artigo avalia a diferença entre o uso determinado de barreiras e as estimativas internacionais de uso. Resultados: verifica-se que no acelerador duplo com energia de 15X os campos mais utilizados são os ângulos de pórtico 0º, 90º, 180º, 270º, com um peso acumulado de aproximadamente 65%, assim como a carga de trabalho para esses ângulos, o que implica que os ângulos diferentes desses têm um uso muito menor do que o previsto pelo cálculo inicial. No acelerador duplo a 6X de energia, o campo mais utilizado é o de 0º com um peso aproximado de 14%, mas a carga de trabalho em 0º não é sensivelmente diferente do resto dos ângulos, já que a distribuição não tem direções preferenciais, nenhum dos valores chega a 10%, o que é consistente com o uso homogêneo da barreira. No acelerador de monoenergia, o peso relativo dos ângulos de 90º e 270º no uso das barreiras é de aproximadamente 34% para cada um, superior aos 25% estimados inicialmente. Conclusões: as barreiras primárias dos bunkers de radioterapia têm espessuras balizadas pelo cálculo de blindagem, que pode ser feito com base em documentos internacionais que são referência no assunto. As referências para a barreira primária consideram um fator de uso igual para elas, mas na prática clínica elas podem ter um fator de uso não uniforme, dependendo do tipo de tratamento que o equipamento foi projetado para realizar. Essa realidade abre as portas para uma blindagem otimizada que poderia gerar bunkers mais econômicos e melhor uso do espaço de acordo com as condições dadas para cada caso específico.

[Translated article] Role of radiotherapy in the management of spine metastases.

Spine metastases are a common cause of pain in the oncologic patient which can generate functional limitation, in addition to complications derived from spinal cord compression, radicular compression and fractures. A complex approach to these metastases is required due to the risk of permanent sequelae. With the increase in survival rates due to new emerging treatments, the possibilities of presenting vertebral metastases are increasing, therefore, the management of these lesions should be aimed at pain relief and maintenance of ambulation. Radiotherapy has a fundamental role in the management of these lesions, and technological advances in recent years have made it possible to improve the quality and intentionality of the treatments, going from having a palliative intent to proposing treatments that improve local control. In this article, we describe how the stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) technique, in selected patients, can improve local control and its value in oligometastatic patients and after surgery.

Fracture in Irradiated Rat Femur: A Description of an Experimental Model and Evaluation of its Effectiveness / Fratura em fêmur irradiado de rato: Descrição de um modelo experimental e avaliação de sua eficácia

Abstract Objective We aim to describe an experimental model for studying femoral fractures in rats after exposure to ionizing radiation, demonstrating a way to apply a substance for analysis, the method for patterning fracture and irradiation, and how to evaluate its effectiveness based on radiographic studies. Methods We used 24 rats divided into 2 groups of 12 animals each. The STUDY group was exposed to ionizing radiation and treated with saline solution, and the CONTROL group was not exposed to radiation and was treated with saline solution. All animals were subjected to standardized fracture of the right femur that was fixed with intramedullary wire. The efficiency of the bone union was assessed by radiographic exam. Results Fracture healing was more efficient in bones not exposed to ionizing radiation (p = 0.012). All fractures met the criteria of being simple, diaphyseal, transverse or short oblique. Conclusion The experimental model presented is an efficient alternative for the study of fractures in irradiated bones in rats.

Resumo Objetivo Nosso objetivo é descrever um modelo experimental para estudo de fraturas de fêmur em ratos após exposição a radiação ionizante, demonstrando uma forma de aplicação de uma substância para análise, o método de padronização de fratura e irradiação e a forma de avaliação de sua eficácia com base em estudos radiográficos. Métodos Utilizamos 24 ratos divididos em dois grupos de 12 animais cada. O grupo ESTUDO foi exposto à radiação ionizante e tratado com soro fisiológico, enquanto o grupo CONTROLE não foi exposto à radiação e foi tratado com soro fisiológico. Todos os animais foram submetidos à fratura padronizada do fêmur direito e sua fixação com fio intramedular. A eficácia da consolidação óssea foi determinada por exame radiográfico. Resultados A cicatrização de fraturas foi mais eficiente em ossos não expostos à radiação ionizante (p = 0,012). Todas as fraturas atenderam aos critérios de serem simples, diafisárias, transversas ou oblíquas curtas. Conclusão O modelo experimental apresentado é uma boa alternativa para o estudo de fraturas em ossos irradiados em ratos.

Valor de la elastografía por patrones de colores en la reestadificación del cáncer de recto / Value of elastography by color patterns in the restaging of rectal cancer i: en

Introducción: La elastografía cualitativa por ecografía endoscópica es una técnica para examinar las propiedades elásticas de los tejidos, que puede distinguir la fibrosis del tumor mediante patrones de colores. Objetivo: Determinar el valor de la elastografía por patrones de colores en la reestadificación del cáncer de recto. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional y descriptivo (serie de casos) de 54 pacientes con cáncer de recto atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, en La Habana, entre septiembre del 2018 y diciembre del 2022, a quienes se les realizó elastografía por ecografía endoscópica para la reevaluación del tumor. Para determinar el valor de dicha técnica se calculó la sensibilidad, la especificidad, los valores predictivos positivo y negativo, las razones de verosimilitud positiva y negativa, así como el índice de Youden. Se estableció la concordancia diagnóstica según el índice kappa y el estudio histológico de la muestra tomada fue el estándar de referencia. Resultados: La concordancia de la elastografía con el resultado anatomopatológico fue buena (κ=0,84). La especificidad y el índice de validez resultaron ser de 91,7 y 94,4 %, respectivamente; mientras que el valor predictivo negativo fue de 84,6 %. Los 16 pacientes con patrón elastográfico mixto (ye3) tenían tumor residual localizado en alguna de las capas de la pared del recto. El índice de Youden alcanzó valores cercanos a 1. Conclusiones: El valor de esta técnica radica en su especificidad diagnóstica y en el valor predictivo negativo al diferenciar la fibrosis del tumor residual en la pared rectal.

Introduction: The qualitative elastography by endoscopic echography is a technique to examine the elastic properties of tissues that can distinguish the fibrosis of the tumor by means of color patterns. Objective: To determine the value of elastography by color patterns in the reestadification of the rectum cancer. Methods: An observational and descriptive study (serial cases) of 54 patients with rectum cancer was carried out, who were assisted in the National Center of Minimum Access Surgery, in Havana, between September, 2018 and December, 2022 to whom elastography by endoscopic echography were carried out for the reevaluation of the tumor. To determine the value of this technique the sensibility, specificity, the predictive positive and negative values, the positive and negative true ratio, as well as the index of Youden were calculated. The diagnostic consistency was established according to the kappa index and the histologic study of the sample was the reference standard. Results: The elastography consistency with the pathologic result was good (ĸ=0.84). The specificity and the index of validity were 91.7 and 94.4%, respectively; while the negative predictive value was 84.6%. The 16 patients with mixed elastographic pattern (ye3) had residual tumor located in some of the layers of the rectum wall. The Youden index reached values close to 1. Conclusions: The value of this technique resides in its diagnostic specificity and negative predictive value when differentiating fibrosis from the residual tumor in the rectal wall.

Controversias en radioterapia adyuvante en cáncer de próstata localizado

La elección del momento más adecuado para realizar radioterapia en el tratamiento del cáncer de próstata es controversial ya que puede ser realizada inmediatamente posterior a la prostatectomía o como tratamiento de rescate ante una recaída. En este artículo, se realiza una búsqueda del tema, se seleccionan los ensayos clínicos con mayor evidencia y se analizan los resultados. Si bien existe beneficio en la radioterapia adyuvante, este resultado no se encuentra en todos los pacientes y sí se asocia a mayor toxicidad genitourinaria tardía, por lo tanto, la clave está en la selección del tratamiento según el paciente específico.

The choice of the most appropriate time to perform radiotherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer is controversial since it can be performed immediately after prostatectomy or as rescue treatment in case of relapse. In this article, a search for the topic is carried out, the clinical trials with the greatest evidence are selected and the results are analyzed. Although there is benefit in adjuvant radiotherapy, this result is not found in all patients and it is associated with greater late genitoutinary toxicity, therefore, the key is in the selection of treatment according to the specific patient.

Breast cancer after thoracic radiotherapy in young patients: what does the radiologist need to know? / Câncer de mama após radioterapia torácica em pacientes jovens: o que o radiologista precisa saber?

Abstract Radiation-induced secondary tumors constitute a rare complication of radiation therapy and typically occur in or near the irradiated area. Women who undergo thoracic radiotherapy before 30 years of age have a significantly greater lifetime risk of developing breast cancer than do those in the general population. It is recommended that a patient who has previously received thoracic radiotherapy with a radiation dose ≥ 10 Gy subsequently undergo annual screening with mammography and magnetic resonance imaging, beginning eight years after the initial treatment or when the patient has reached 25 years of age (whichever comes later). The treatment of secondary breast cancer in this population should be individualized and should be discussed with a multidisciplinary team to avoid toxicity related to the treatment of the primary cancer.

Resumo Os cânceres secundários induzidos por radiação são complicações raras da radioterapia e geralmente ocorrem na área tratada ou próximo a ela. Mulheres com menos de 30 anos de idade tratadas com radioterapia torácica têm risco significativamente aumentado de desenvolver câncer de mama ao longo da vida, em comparação com a população em geral. Para as pacientes tratadas com irradiação torácica com dose igual ou superior a 10 Gy é recomendado rastreamento anual com mamografia e ressonância magnética iniciando oito anos após o tratamento, desde que este início seja após 25 anos de idade. O tratamento do câncer de mama secundário nessa população deve ser individualizado e discutido com equipe multidisciplinar, para evitar toxicidade relacionada ao tratamento do câncer primário.