Fulvestrant en la práctica clínica: análisis de efectividad en pacientes uruguayas con cáncer de mama HR+/HER2. / Fulvestrant in clinical practice: Effectiveness analysis in Uruguayan patients with HR+/HER2- breast cancer.

Introduction: Fulvestrant demonstrated benefits in overall survival and progression-free survival in patients with advanced breast cancer, who are hormone receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative. The characteristics, evolution, and survival of patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer treated with fulvestrant were evaluated according to the national treatment coverage protocols of the National Resources Fund, with the aim of understanding the efficacy of fulvestrant in patients treated in usual clinical practice and comparing our results with those from pivotal studies. Methods: A database from the National Resources Fund covering the period from 2009 to 2022 was used. Survival curves were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences were analyzed using the Log-Rank test. Results: A total of 1085 patients with an average age of 63,66 years were included. Following a follow-up of 14 months, the median overall survival was 16 months, and the median progression-free survival was 6 months. The presence of liver and bone metastases was associated with a shorter overall survival. Patients from the public sector and those with a better performance status experienced longer overall survival. Conclusions: Our findings provide a valuable perspective for treatment management in a context of limited resources. Overall survival and progression-free survival were somewhat lower than those reported in pivotal clinical trials. The presence of liver and bone metastases was associated with worse prognosis and survival; additionally, patients with worse performance status had shorter overall survival. These findings underscore the need for personalized therapies, opening new lines of future research.

Introducción: Fulvestrant demostró beneficio en sobrevida global y sobrevida libre de progresión en pacientes con cáncer de mama avanzado, con receptores hormonales positivos y receptor de factor de crecimiento epidérmico humano 2 negativo. Se evaluaron las características, la evolución y la sobrevida de pacientes con cáncer de mama receptor hormonal positivo, HER2 negativo, tratadas con fulvestrant, de acuerdo con los protocolos nacionales de cobertura de tratamiento del Fondo Nacional de Recursos. Su objetivo fue conocer la eficacia de fulvestrant en pacientes tratados en la práctica clínica habitual. Se compararon los resultados obtenidos en el presente trabajo con los resultados de los estudios pivotales. Métodos: Se utilizó la base de datos del Fondo Nacional de Recursos, que abarca el período de 2009 a 2022. La evaluación de las curvas de sobrevida se realizó mediante el método Kaplan-Meier y las diferencias se analizaron utilizando el test de Log-Rank. Resultados: Se incluyeron 1085 pacientes con una edad media de 63,66 años. Tras un seguimiento de 14 meses, la mediana de la sobrevida global fue de 16 meses y la de la sobrevida libre de progresión de 6 meses. La presencia de metástasis hepáticas y óseas se asoció con una menor sobrevida global. Los pacientes del sector público y aquellos con una mejor escala de estado funcional experimentaron una mayor sobrevida global. Conclusiones: Los resultados obtenidos ofrecen una perspectiva valiosa para la gestión de tratamientos en un contexto de recursos limitados. La sobrevida global y la sobrevida libre de progresión fueron algo inferiores a los reportados en los ensayos clínicos pivotales. La presencia de metástasis hepáticas y óseas se asoció a un peor pronóstico y una peor sobrevida. Además, los pacientes con peor escala de estado funcional tuvieron una menor sobrevida global. Estos hallazgos subrayan la necesidad de terapias personalizadas, abriendo nuevas líneas de investigación futura.

Quality of life in patients treated with breast cancer surgery and adjuvant systemic therapy and/or adjuvant radiotherapy in Uruguay.

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer (BC) and its treatment can impair patient quality of life (QoL), and those undergoing more aggressive treatments may be more severely impacted. Objective: Assess the level of perception of the QoL of patients treated for BC at the Hospital de Clínicas and the Departmental Hospital of Soriano. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire for cancer patients (EORTC, QLQ-C30) and one specific for BC (EORTC QLQ-BR23) were used. RESULTS: A total of 158 patients who had completed chemotherapy treatment at least one year prior to the evaluation were enrolled. The average age was 61 years old. QLQC QUESTIONNAIRE: The global QoL score (GQOL) was high: 70.9. Patients undergoing breast-conservation surgery (BCS) had better scores in physical and emotional functioning (p < 0.005) and presented less frequently with: pain, constipation, and financial difficulties (p < 0.005). Those undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) had higher scores for GQOL and for physical, role, and social functioning scales (p < 0.001) and had less fatigue, pain, insomnia, and financial difficulties (p < 0.005). QUESTIONNAIRE QLQBR: Sexual functioning and sexual enjoyment scales were relatively low. Patients undergoing BCS had better scores on the functional scales: body image and future outlook; and fewer breast symptoms (p < 0.005). Those undergoing SLNB also had better scores on the functional scales for body image and future outlook future and presented less frequently with symptoms (p < 0.005). CONCLUSION: Uruguayan BC patients experience high values on the GQOL scale; those undergoing BCS and SLNB had better scores on most functional and problem/symptom scales. Patients undergoing BCS had better scores in physical and emotional functioning and presented less frequently with pain, constipation, and financial difficulties. With respect to the type of axillary surgery received, patients who underwent SLNB had higher scores on the GQOL scale and on the physical, role, and social functional scales. The implementation of intervention strategies aimed at improving the quality of life, and the physical and emotional care of patients is recommended.

Targeted Therapy Innovations for Melanoma.

Melanoma, a malignant tumor of melanocytes, poses a significant clinical challenge due to its aggressive nature and high potential for metastasis. The advent of targeted therapy has revolutionized the treatment landscape of melanoma, particularly for tumors harboring specific genetic alterations such as BRAF V600E mutations. Despite the initial success of targeted agents, resistance inevitably arises, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic strategies. This review explores the latest advances in targeted therapy for melanoma, focusing on new molecular targets, combination therapies, and strategies to overcome resistance.

Arthralgia and myalgia associated with aromatase inhibitors: frequency and characterization in real-life patients.

Introduction: Adjuvant treatment with aromatase inhibitors (AI) in oestrogen receptor-positive and/or progesterone receptor-positive breast cancer (BC) has been shown to increase overall survival. However, arthralgias and myalgias are common adverse effects in patients treated with AI. Objective: To evaluate the frequency and characteristics of arthralgias and myalgias in patients with early BC-treated adjuvantly with AI in the Mastology Unit of the Oncology Service of the Hospital de Clínicas and the Departmental Hospital of Soriano. Materials and methods: A prospective, cross-sectional and descriptive study was performed. A questionnaire was administered to patients to assess the presence and characteristics of arthralgias and myalgias associated with AI. Statistical analysis: 'Age' was described with measures of central tendency and dispersion. Qualitative variables were presented in absolute and relative frequencies. Logistic models were used to evaluate the association between patient characteristics, tumour characteristics, treatment characteristics and the presence of pain. Results were presented by odds ratio and p-value, using R software (version 4.1.2) with a significance threshold of 5%. Results: 83 patients were included, with a median age of 69 years. 75.9% presented arthralgias and/or myalgias related to treatment, with an average intensity of 5-7. 80.9% received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), achieving satisfactory analgesia. The presence of arthralgias and myalgias was significantly associated with age and time since the last menstrual period (LMP), being more frequent in patients older than 50 years and those with more than 5 years since the LMP. Conclusion: Approximately 70% of the patients presented arthralgias or myalgias. These findings suggest a possible role of oestrogen withdrawal in its mechanism of development. Multidisciplinary and translational research is crucial to evaluate the ethology and therapeutic options for patients with AI-related arthralgia.

Efficacy of First-Line Treatment With Pertuzumab and Trastuzumab in Advanced Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Positive Breast Cancer in Routine Clinical Practice.

Background: The first-line treatment for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) involves a combination of trastuzumab, pertuzumab, and a taxane (TPH). This study assessed the efficacy of trastuzumab and pertuzumab (PH) in routine practice, following the treatment protocols of Uruguay's National Resources Fund (FNR), akin to clinical trials. Methods: Patients with advanced MBC treated with PH between 2008 and 2022 per FNR protocols were evaluated. The Kaplan-Meyer method and log-rank test were utilized for analyzing overall survival (OS). Demographic and clinical variables, including age, menopausal status, and hormone receptors (HR), were analyzed. Results: The study included 318 PH-treated patients. The median age was 56 years, with 63.2% being postmenopausal and 60.4% HR and HER-2 positive. With a median follow-up of 17.2 months, the median OS was 29 months. OS varied based on HR status and the presence of metastases at different sites, significantly lower in patients with brain, cutaneous/subcutaneous, and pulmonary metastases. Additionally, OS was higher in patients treated at private institutions compared to public ones. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the disparity in oncological treatment efficacy between clinical trials and clinical reality in Uruguay, emphasizing the importance of authentic environment research for more representative and effective medicine in Latin America.

Características clínico- patológicas y evolución del cáncer de mama en pacientes asistidas en la Unidad de Mastología del Hospital de Clínicas

Introducción: En Uruguay el cáncer de mama (CM) ocupa el primer lugar en incidencia y mortalidad por cáncer en la mujer, se trata de una enfermedad multifactorial que guarda relación con la herencia genética, historial hormonal estrogénico, estilo de vida, factores ambientales y culturales. Objetivos: investigar las características clínico-patológicas de pacientes con CM diagnosticadas en el Hospital de Clínicas y evaluar la sobrevida global total (SVG) y de acuerdo al subtipo biológico. Metodología: se recolectaron datos relacionados con las características clínico-patológicas y la evolución de pacientes tratadas por CM en el período comprendido entre el 1º de enero del 2011 y 31 de diciembre de 2020 asistidas en la Unidad de Mastología del Hospital de Clínicas. Se calculó la SVG para todas las pacientes, globalmente, y según el subtipo biológico. Resultados: se incluyeron 390 pacientes. Las características clínico-patológicas fueron: carcinoma ductal: 83%, estadio: in situ (1.8 %), I (27.7 %), II (29.7 %), III (23.6%), IV (12.6 %). Con respecto al perfil biológico: 235 tumores (60.3%) fueron RRHH+ HER 2−, 88 tumores (22.6%) fueron HER2 +, mientras que otros 41 tumores (10.5%) fueron clasificados como triple negativos (TN). La SVG para la totalidad de las pacientes tuvo una mediana de 92 meses. Las tasas de SVG a 2 y 5 años fueron para las luminales de 92% y 64%; en las TN la tasa de SVG a 24 meses fue de 69%, siendo a 5 años de 53.3% y en las HER2 + 76.6% y 67.3% respectivamente. Conclusiones: La mayoría de los tumores fueron diagnosticados en estadios precoces, siendo estos datos son concordantes con los reportados en estudios realizados a nivel nacional. La frecuencia de tumores RE/RP+ algo inferior a la reportada en estudios previos (70%) a nivel nacional, mientras que la de tumores HER 2 + TN fue similar a la reportada en estudios europeos, norteamericanos y en Latinoamérica donde se la prevalencia encontrada es del 20%

Introduction: In Uruguay, breast cancer (BC) ranks first in incidence and mortality from cancer in women. It is a multifactorial disease that is related to genetic inheritance, estrogenic hormonal history, lifestyle, environmental and cultural factors. Objectives: to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with BC diagnosed at the Hospital de Clínicas and to evaluate the overall overall survival (SVG) and according to the biological subtype. Metodology: data related to the clinicopathological characteristics and the evolution of patients treated for BC in the period between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2020 assisted in the Mastology Unit of the Hospital de Clínicas were collected. Overall survival (SVG) was calculated for all patients, globally, and according to biological subtype. Results: 390 patients were included. The clinicopathological characteristics were: ductal carcinoma: 83%, stage: in situ (1.8%), I (27.7%), II (29.7%), III (23.6%), IV (12.6%). Regarding the biological profile: 235 tumors (60.3%) were HR+ HER 2−, 88 tumors (22.6%) were HER2 +, while another 41 tumors (10.5%) were classified as triple negative (TN). The SVG for all the patients had a median of 92 months. SVG rates at 2 and 5 years were 92% and 64% for luminals; in TN the 24-month survival rate was 69%, being 53.3% at 5 years and in HER2 + 76.6% and 67.3% respectively. Conclusions: Most of the tumors were diagnosed in early stages, these data being consistent with those reported in studies carried out at the national level. The frequency of ER/RP+ tumors was somewhat lower than that reported in previous studies (70%) at the national level, while that of HER 2 + TN tumors was similar to that reported in European, North American and Latin American studies where the prevalence found is 20%

Introdução: No Uruguai, o câncer de mama (CM) ocupa o primeiro lugar em incidência e mortalidade por câncer em mulheres. É uma doença multifatorial que está relacionada à herança genética, história hormonal estrogênica, estilo de vida, fatores ambientais e culturais. Objetivos: investigar as características clinicopatológicas dos pacientes com CM diagnosticados no Hospital de Clínicas e avaliar a sobrevida global (OSV) e segundo o subtipo biológico. Material e método: foram coletados dados referentes às características clínico-patológicas e à evolução dos pacientes atendidos por CM no período de 1º de janeiro de 2011 a 31 de dezembro de 2020 atendidos na Unidade de Mastologia do Hospital de Clínicas. A sobrevida global (SVG) foi calculada para todos os pacientes, globalmente e de acordo com o subtipo biológico. Resultados: 390 pacientes foram incluídos. As características clínico-patológicas foram: carcinoma ductal: 83%, estádio: in situ (1,8%), I (27,7%), II (29,7%), III (23,6%), IV (12,6%). Quanto ao perfil biológico: 235 tumores (60,3%) eram HR+ HER 2−, 88 tumores (22,6%) eram HER2+, enquanto outros 41 tumores (10,5%) foram classificados como triplo negativo (TN). O SVG para todos os pacientes teve uma mediana de 92 meses. As taxas de SVG aos 2 e 5 anos foram de 92% e 64% para luminais; em TN a sobrevida em 24 meses foi de 69%, sendo 53,3% em 5 anos e em HER2 + 76,6% e 67,3%, respectivamente. Conclusões: A maioria dos tumores foi diagnosticada em estágios iniciais, sendo esses dados consistentes com os relatados em estudos realizados em nível nacional. A frequência de tumores ER/RP+ foi um pouco menor do que a relatada em estudos anteriores (70%) em nível nacional, enquanto a de tumores HER 2 + TN foi semelhante à relatada em estudos europeus, norte-americanos e latino-americanos, onde a prevalência encontrado é 20%

Repercusión de la pandemia COVID-19 en el diagnóstico y tratamiento del cáncer de mama en pacientes asistidas en la Unidad de Mastología del Hospital de Clínicas / Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in patients assisted at Clinicals Hospital Breast Unit / Repercussão da pandemia de COVID-19 no diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de mama em pacientes atendidas na Unidade de Mastologia do Hospital de Clínicas

Introducción: la crisis sanitaria por COVID-19 impactó en la atención de diversas patologías, entre ellas, el cáncer. Con el fin de disminuir el riesgo de contraer SARS-CoV-2 se redujo el número de consultas, lo que determinó un aumento en la tasa de morbilidad y mortalidad para otras patologías, lo que se ha denominado la "segunda pandemia". Objetivo: describir la actividad asistencial de la Unidad de Mastología (UM) en el período marzo 2020 - marzo 2022 y compararla con la del período marzo 2019 - marzo 2021. Objetivo: describir la actividad asistencial de la Unidad de Mastología (UM) en el período marzo 2020 - marzo 2022 y compararla con la del período marzo 2019 - marzo 2021. Material y método: estudio observacional retrospectivo que incluyó a pacientes asistidas por cáncer de mama (CM) en el período marzo 2019 - marzo 2022. Resultados: durante el año previo a la pandemia se asistieron 30 nuevas pacientes. En cuanto al tiempo entre el diagnóstico anatomopatológico y el primer tratamiento, en 73,3% fue ≤ 2 meses, 16,6% > 2 meses y ≤ 4 meses y en 10% fue > 4 meses. Durante la pandemia se asistieron 50 pacientes nuevas, lo que se traduce en un descenso de 16,6%. En cuanto al tiempo entre el diagnóstico anatomopatológico y el primer tratamiento: en 41% fue ≤ 2 meses, 33% > 2 meses y ≤ 4 meses y en 25% fue > 4 meses. Conclusiones: si bien se logró mantener la actividad asistencial y dar continuidad a la mayoría de los tratamientos, durante la pandemia COVID-19 se redujo el número de pacientes derivadas al servicio en aproximadamente 16,6% y se produjo un aumento en el tiempo transcurrido entre el diagnóstico y el primer tratamiento.

Introduction: the COVID-19 health crisis had a significant impact on the management of various pathologies, including cancer. To reduce the risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2, the number of consultations was reduced, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates for other pathologies, which has been referred to as the "second pandemic." Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the clinical activity of the Breast Unit (BU) during the period March 2020-2022 and compare it with the activity during the period March 2019-2021. Objective: the aim of this study is to describe the clinical activity of the Breast Unit (BU) during the period March 2020-2022 and compare it with the activity during the period March 2019-2021. Method: retrospective observational study including patients attending the BU during the period March 2019-2022. Results: in the year before the pandemic, 30 new patients were assisted. Regarding the time between anatomopathological diagnosis and the initiation of the first treatment: in 73.3% of cases, it was ≤ 2 months, 16.6% > 2 months and ≤ 4 months, and in 10%, it was > 4 months. During the pandemic, 50 new patients were assisted, representing a decrease of approximately 16.6% in the number of new patients attended. Regarding the time between anatomopathological diagnosis and the initiation of the first treatment: in 41% of cases, it was ≤ 2 months, 33% > 2 months and ≤ 4 months, and in 25%, it was > 4 months. Conclusion: although the BU managed to maintain its clinical activity and continuity of most treatments during the COVID pandemic, there was a reduction in the number of patients referred to the service by approximately 16.6% and an increase in the time elapsed between diagnosis and the initiation of the first treatment.

Introdução: a crise sanitária causada pela COVID-19 impactou o atendimento de diversas patologias, inclusive o câncer. Para diminuir o risco de contrair SARS-CoV-2, reduziu-se o número de consultas, o que determinou um aumento da taxa de morbimortalidade por outras patologias, o que tem sido chamado de "segunda pandemia". Objetivo: descrever a atividade assistencial da Unidade de Mastologia (UM) no período março de 2020 - março de 2022 e compará-la com a do período março de 2019 - março de 2020. Material e método: estudo observacional retrospectivo que incluiu pacientes atendidos pelo CM no período março de 2019 - março de 2022. Resultados: no ano anterior à pandemia foram atendidos 30 novos pacientes. Em relação ao tempo entre o diagnóstico patológico e o primeiro tratamento: em 73,3% foi ≤2 meses, 16,6% >2 meses e ≤4 meses e em 10% foi >4 meses. Durante a pandemia, foram atendidos 50 novos pacientes, o que se traduz em uma queda de 16,6%no número de novos pacientes atendidos. Quanto ao tempo entre o diagnóstico patológico e o primeiro tratamento: em 41% foi ≤2 meses, 33% >2 meses e ≤4 meses e em 25% foi >4 meses. Conclusão: embora tenha conseguido manter a atividade assistencial e dar continuidade à maioria dos tratamentos, durante a pandemia de COVID-19 o número de pacientes encaminhados para o Serviço diminuiu cerca de 16,6% e houve um aumento do tempo decorrido entre o diagnóstico e o primeiro tratamento.

Conocimiento y uso de las distintas herramientas de tamizaje del cáncer de mama entre médicos del primer nivel de atención: un estudio transversal / Knowledge and use of different breast cancer screening tools among primary care physicians: a cross-sectional study / Conhecimento e uso de diferentes ferramentas de rastreamento do câncer de mama entre médicos da atenção primária: um estudo transversal

Resumen: Introducción: en Uruguay el cáncer de mama (CM) ocupa el primer lugar en incidencia y mortalidad por cáncer en la mujer. Objetivo: conocer la implementación del tamizaje del CM en la práctica clínica habitual y el grado de adhesión a las recomendaciones planteadas en el año 2015 por el Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP) para la detección temprana del CM entre los médicos del primer nivel de atención. Material y métodos: se trata de un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal. Se aplicó una encuesta dirigida a médicos del primer nivel de atención, de carácter anónimo. Resultados: se incluyeron 169 médicos, 89,4% (151) considera que el uso de la mamografía de tamizaje disminuye la mortalidad por CM, 54,4% (92) indica la mamografía a partir de los 40 años de edad y 38,5% (65) a partir de los 50 años. El 56,8% (96) indica la mamografía cada 2 años en la población de mujeres que se encuentran entre 50 y 69 años. El 65,7% de los encuestados (111) conoce la guía nacional y 47,9% (81) la utiliza, mientras que el 18,9% (32) utiliza recomendaciones de otras sociedades científicas. Conclusión: el presente estudio evidenció que los médicos del primer nivel de atención hacen un uso correcto de las distintas herramientas de tamizaje del CM. Se necesitan medidas activas para desarrollar programas educativos para el personal de salud, que podrían permitirles difundir conocimientos e influir positivamente en las actitudes de los pacientes.

Summary: Introduction: in Uruguay, breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality in women. Objective: to understand the implementation of BC screening among primary care physicians in routine clinical practice and the degree of adherence to the recommendations put forward in 2015 by the Ministry of Public Health (MPH) for the early detection of BC. Materials and methods: this was a descriptive, cross-sectional, observational study. An anonymous survey was administered to physicians working in primary care. Results: 169 physicians were included, 89.4% (151) consider the use of screening mammography decreases mortality from BC, 54.4% (92) indicate mammography from 40 years of age and 38.5% (65) from 50 years of age. The majority (56.8%, 96) indicate mammography every 2 years in the population of women aged 50-69 years. Of the respondents, 65.7% (111) were aware of the national guidelines and 47.9% (81) followed them, while 18.9% (32) followed recommendations from other scientific bodies. Conclusion: this study showed that primary care physicians make correct use of the different BC screening tools. Active measures are needed to develop educational programs for healthcare personnel, which may enable them to disseminate knowledge and positively influence patients' attitudes.

Resumo: Introdução: o câncer de mama (CM) ocupa o primeiro lugar em incidência e mortalidade por câncer em mulheres no Uruguai. Objetivo: conhecer a implementação do rastreamento do CM na prática clínica de rotina e o grau de adesão às recomendações de 2015 do Ministério da Saúde Pública para detecção precoce do CM entre os médicos do primeiro nível de atenção. Material e métodos: trata-se de um estudo observacional descritivo e transversal. Foi aplicada uma pesquisa anônima destinada aos médicos do primeiro nível de atenção. Resultados: foram incluídos 169 médicos; 89,4% (151) consideram que o uso da mamografia de rastreamento diminui a mortalidade por CM, 54,4% (92) indicam mamografia a partir dos 40 anos e 38,5% (65) a partir dos 50 anos; 56,8% (96) indicam mamografia a cada 2 anos na população de mulheres entre 50 e 69 anos. 65,7% dos respondentes (111) conhecem o guia nacional e 47,9% (81) o utilizam, enquanto 18,9% (32) utilizam recomendações de outras sociedades científicas. Conclusão: este estudo mostrou que os médicos do primeiro nível de atenção fazem uso correto das diferentes ferramentas de rastreamento do CM. São necessárias medidas ativas para desenvolver programas educacionais para os profissionais de saúde, que possam permitir que eles disseminem o conhecimento e influenciem positivamente as atitudes dos pacientes.

Circulating T regulatory cell subsets in patients with untreated lung cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Regulatory T Cells (Tregs) play an important role in carcinogenesis and tumor immunoediting by preventing the development of effective antitumor immunity. Several reports showed that circulating Tregs are increased in patients with solid tumors, including lung cancer. Treg population could be categorized into "naive," "effector," and "memory" subtypes, bearing potential unique functions. However, the data regarding the prognostic impact of these Tregs subtypes is limited in lung cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of different circulating Tregs subtypes in lung cancer and their correlation with clinical outcomes. METHODS: We analyzed the frequency of circulating CD4, CD8 and, Tregs lymphocytes in 66 patients with lung cancer and 32 healthy controls using flow cytometry. Circulating Tregs subtypes: naïve (CD3+ , CD4+ , CCR4+ , CD25+ and CD127low, CD45RO-), memory (CD3+ , CD4+ , CCR4+ , CD25+ and CD127low, CD45RO+) and the expression of the activation marker HLA-DR were correlated with overall survival. RESULTS: The percentage and the absolute number of total, memory and activated Tregs was significantly higher in lung cancer patients than healthy controls. Patients with a Tregs percentage higher than 5.4% and higher than 20% of HLA-DR + Tregs had worse overall survival than those with lower levels. CONCLUSIONS: Circulating Tregs and activated Tregs are a potential prognostic factor in patients with lung cancer treated with conventional therapy and could be considered a predictive biomarker in patients not eligible for immune blockade treatments. Additionally, it will be interesting to study these Tregs subsets for immune treatments in future clinical trials.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health care activities at a Uruguayan mastology unit.

PURPOSE: Health emergency due to COVID-19 started in Uruguay on March 13, 2020; our mastology unit tried to ensure adequate oncological care, and protect patients from the virus infection and complications. OBJECTIVE: To assess the health care activities in the "peak" of the pandemic during 3 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: we collected data from the electronic health record. RESULTS: There were a total of 293 medical appointments from 131 patients (221 face-to-face), that decreased by 16.7% compared to the same period in 2019 (352 appointments). The medical appointments were scheduled to evaluate the continuity of systemic treatment or modifications (95 patients; 72.5%), follow-up (17; 12.9%), first-time consultation (12; 9.1%), and assess paraclinical studies (7; 5.3%). The patients were on hormone therapy (81 patients; 74%), chemotherapy (CT) (21; 19%), and anti-HER2 therapies (9; 8%). New twenty treatments were initiated. Of the 14 patients that were on adjuvant/neoadjuvant CT, 9 (64.3%) continued with the same regimen with the addition of prophylactic granulocyte-colony-stimulating factors (G-CSF), and 5 (35.7%), who were receiving weekly paclitaxel, continued the treatment with no changes. Of the seven patients that were on palliative CT, 2 (28.5%) continued the treatment with the addition of G-CSF, 3 (42.8%) continued with weekly capecitabine or paclitaxel with no treatment changes, and 2 (28.5%) changed their treatment regimen (a less myelosuppressive regimen was selected for one and due to progression of the disease in the other patient). The ninety patients who were receiving adjuvant, neoadjuvant, or palliative criteria hormone therapy and/or anti-HER2 therapies, continued the treatment with no changes. CONCLUSIONS: The evidence suggests that, although medical appointments decreased by approximately 17%, we could maintain healthcare activities, continued most of the treatments while the most modified was CT with G-CSF to avoid myelosuppression.

Patogenia y tratamiento de la mucositis asociada al tratamiento de radioterapia y/o quimioterapia en pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello / Pathogenesis and treatment of mucositis associated with radiotherapy and / or chemotherapy treatment in patients with head and neck cancer / Patogênese e tratamento da mucosite associada ao tratamento com radioterapia e / ou quimioterapia em pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço

Resumen: La mucositis es un efecto adverso frecuente e invalidante en los pacientes oncológicos que reciben tratamiento de Radioterapia y Quimioterapia a altas dosis y muchas veces lleva a la suspensión del tratamiento. Si bien es una entidad que tiene gran relevancia en los pacientes e importante impacto económico en las instituciones de salud, no existen tratamientos claramente establecidos ni eficaces para mejorar esta condición. El objetivo de esta revisión es analizar la evidencia disponible en el tratamiento de la mucositis, y el respaldo científico e impacto que tienen conductas habitualmente tomadas en su tratamiento.

Abstract: Mucositis is a frequent and disabling adverse effect in cancer patients who received radiation therapy and chemotherapy at high doses and often discontinues treatment. Although it is an entity that has great relevance in patients and an important economic impact in health institutions, there are no clearly established or modified treatments to improve this condition. The objective of this review is to analyze the available evidence in the treatment of mucositis, and the scientific support and impact of behaviors commonly taken in its treatment.

Resumo: A mucosite é um efeito adverso frequente e incapacitante em pacientes com câncer que receberam radioterapia e quimioterapia em altas doses e muitas vezes interrompe o tratamento. Embora seja uma entidade que tenha grande relevância nos pacientes e um importante impacto econômico nas instituições de saúde, não existem tratamentos claramente estabelecidos ou modificados para melhorar essa condição. O objetivo desta revisão é analisar as evidências disponíveis no tratamento da mucosite, o suporte científico e o impacto das condutas comumente adotadas no seu tratamento.

Evaluación de la eficacia de la consulta telefónica y el nivel de satisfacción de las pacientes asistidas en la Unidad Docente Asistencial de Mastología durante la alerta sanitaria por COVID 19 / Evaluation of the effectiveness of telephone consultations and the level of satisfaction of patients assisted at the Mastology Teacher Assistance Department with this modality during the COVID health emergency / Avaliação da eficácia da consulta telefônica e do nível de satisfação das pacientes atendidas na Unidade de Docência Assistencial de Mastologia durante o alerta de saúde para o COVID 19

Resumen: Introducción: en marzo de 2020 se decretó la emergencia sanitaria por COVID-19, lo que produjo cambios en la organización de los servicios de la salud. Uno de los objetivos de la reorganización fue minimizar las consultas presenciales (CP) y promocionar las telefónicas (CT). Objetivo: evaluar la eficacia de la CT y el nivel de satisfacción de las pacientes asistidas en la Unidad de Mastología con la misma durante la alerta sanitaria por COVID. Material y métodos: se aplicó una encuesta para valorar la eficacia de la CT y el nivel de satisfacción con la misma. Resultados: se encuestaron 42 pacientes, 69% se encontraba recibiendo tratamiento adyuvante y 14,2% paliativo. En cuanto a la eficacia de la CT, 76,1% fueron resueltas en forma telefónica; 78,6% de las pacientes prefirió realizar la consulta en forma telefónica; 97,6% creyó que el tiempo empleado fue suficiente y que el horario en que se la contactó fue adecuado. Las respuestas mostraron un alto grado de satisfacción con la asistencia. La atención médica cumplió con las expectativas de todas las pacientes, 83,3% creyó que una vez recuperada la normalidad, la CT es una opción para su situación. Conclusión: la CT fue valorada con un alto grado de satisfacción y permitió mantener la asistencia durante la emergencia. Si bien es pronto para evaluar el impacto asistencial de la CT y su capacidad resolutiva, resultados preliminares muestran que es una herramienta útil y valiosa en la práctica clínica durante periodos de emergencia sanitaria.

Summary: Introduction: in March 2020, a national health emergency was declared due to the COVID-19, what resulted in changes in the organization of health services. One of the objectives of this restructure was to minimize in person consultations and to promote telephone consultations. that took place was a reduction in face-to-face consultations (FTFC), and the promotion of telephone consultations (TC). Objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of telephone consultations and the level of satisfaction of patients assisted at Mastology Department with this modality during the COVID 19 health emergency. Materials and methods: a survey was used to assess the effectiveness of telephone consultations and the level of satisfaction with this modality. Results: forty-two patients were surveyed, 69% of which were receiving adjuvant treatment and 14.2% of which were receiving palliative treatment. With regard to the effectiveness of telephone consultations, 76.1% of those surveyed had their need solved by telephone; 78.6% of patients preferred to do the consultation by telephone; 97.6% believed that sufficient time was spent and that the timing of the appointment was appropriate. The responses showed a high level of satisfaction with the care received. The medical care met the expectations of all patients, and 83.3% believed that once the situation went back to normal, telephone consultations would be an option for their requirements. Conclusion: the telephone consultation method was evaluated with a high level of satisfaction and it allowed health care services to be maintained during the emergency. Although it is early to assess the healthcare impact of telephone consultations and the modality's capacity to resolve issues, preliminary results show that it is a useful and valuable tool in clinical practice during periods of healthcare emergency.

Resumo: Introdução: em março de 2020, foi decretada a emergência sanitária decorrente do COVID-19, o que produziu mudanças na organização dos serviços de saúde. Um dos objetivos da reorganização era minimizar as consultas presenciais (CP) e promover as consultas telefônicas (CT). Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia da CT e o nível de satisfação das pacientes atendidas na Unidade de Docência Assistencial de Mastologia com a prestada previamente durante o alerta de saúde para o COVID. Material e métodos: foi realizada uma pesquisa telefônica para avaliar a eficácia da TC e o nível de satisfação com a mesma. Resultados: foram entrevistadas 42 pacientes, 69% estavam recebendo tratamento adjuvante e 14,2% paliativo. Em relação à eficácia da CT, 76,1% foram resolvidas por telefone; 78,6% das pacientes preferiram fazer a consulta por telefone; 97,6% consideraram que o tempo despendido foi suficiente e que o momento em que foram contatados foi adequado. As respostas mostraram alto grau de satisfação com o atendimento. O atendimento médico atendeu às expectativas de todos os pacientes, 83,3% acreditam que, uma vez restaurada a normalidade, a CT é uma opção para sua situação. Conclusão: a CT foi avaliada com alto grau de satisfação e permitiu manter o atendimento durante a emergência. Embora seja muito cedo para avaliar o impacto da CT na saúde e sua capacidade de resolução, resultados preliminares mostram que é uma ferramenta útil e valiosa na prática clínica durante períodos de emergência de saúde.

Tumor neuroendocrino y terapia con lutecio / Neuroendocrine tumor and lutetium therapy / Tumor neuroendócrino e terapia com lutecio

Resumen: Introducción: los tumores neuroendocrinos gastroenteropancreáticos (GEP-NET) son un grupo diversos de tumores de origen en las células neuroendocrinas, la mayoría son esporádicos. Se clasifican según origen, secreción hormonal y diferenciación celular. El tratamiento con péptidos radiomarcados o Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) con lutecio 177-DOTATATE fue aprobado por la FDA en el 2018, ya que ha mostrado buenos resultados en tumores avanzados comparado con otras terapias. Presentamos un caso de una paciente con tumor neuroendocrino pancreático con secundarismo hepático tratada con este fármaco. Caso clínico: paciente de sexo femenino de 65 años, portadora de un tumor neuroendocrino pancreático con secundarismo hepático diagnosticado por biopsia y con expresión de receptores de somatostatina. Por su extensión lesional se indica tratamiento médico con análogos de somatostatina que son mal tolerados, tras lo cual se plantea quimioterapia (QT), con progresión tumoral bajo tratamiento. Dada la mala evolución se inicia tratamiento con PRRT como es lutecio 177-DOTATATE. Se observó que los ciclos con lutecio 177-DOTATATE lograron una disminución mínima del tamaño y de la captación tumoral a nivel pancreático, las metástasis hepáticas no presentaron cambios, y la paciente persistió clínicamente estable. Conclusión: El tratamiento con lutecio 177-DOTATATE en una paciente con un tumor neuroendocrino no funcionante con metástasis, irresecable quirúrgicamente, produjo una respuesta aceptable para un tratamiento paliativo, ya que no se produjo progresión tumoral. La paciente persiste clínicamente estable, asintomática, con un seguimiento a 8 años. El tratamiento con lutecio 177-DOTATATE es una opción efectiva con efectos adversos limitados en tumores GEP-NET irresecables o con metástasis.

Summary: Introduction: gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NET) are a group of several tumors originated in neuroendocrine cells, most of which are sporadic. These tumors are classified according to hormone secretion and cell differentiation. Treatment with radiomarked peptides or Peptide Receptor Radio- nuclide Therapy (PRRT) with lutetium 177-DOTATATE was approved by the FDA in 2018, since it has evidenced good results in advanced tumors compared to other therapies. The study presents the case of a patient with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor with secondary hepa tic disease who was treated with this drug. Clinical case: 65-year-old female patient carrier of a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor with secondary hepatic disease who was diagnosed with a biopsy and presented somatostatin receptor (SSTR) expression. Given the extension of the lesion, medical treatment is indicated with somatostatin analogues that are poorly tolerated. Consequently, chemotherapy is indicated, with low performance tumor progression. Given the poor outcome, PRRT treatment as lutetium 177-DOTATATE is initiated. Cycles with lutetium 177-DOTATATE were observed to cause a minimum reduction in size and tumor uptake in the liver. Liver metastases evidenced no change and the patient remained clinically stable. Conclusion: lutetium 177-DOTATATE therapy in a patient with a metastatic nonfunctioning neuroendocrine tumor, that could not be surgically resected produced an acceptable response for palliative treatment, since the tumor failed to progress. The patient continues to be clinically stable, asymptomatic, after 8 years of follow-up. Lutetium 177-DOTATATE therapy constitutes an effective option with limited side effects in unresectable GEP-NET tumors, or in the presence of metas tases.

Resumo: Introdução: os tumores neuroendócrinos gastroenteropancreáticos (GEP-NET) são um grupo diverso de tumores de origem em células neuroendócrinas, a maioria das quais esporádicos. São classificados de acordo com a origem, secreção hormonal e diferenciação celular. O tratamento com peptídeos radiomarcados ou terapia com radionuclídeos com receptor de peptídeos (PRRT) com 177 Lutecio-Dotatate foi aprovado pela FDA em 2018, pois mostrou bons resultados em tumores avançados em comparação com outras terapias. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente com tumor neuroendócrino pancreático com secundarismo hepático tratado com esse medicamento. Caso clínico: paciente do sexo feminino, 65 anos, portadora de tumor neuroendócrino pancreático com doença hepática secundária diagnosticada por biópsia e com expressão de receptores de somatostatina. Devido à extensão da lesão, o tratamento clínico é indicado com análogos da somatostatina que são pouco tolerados, após o que se considera a quimioterapia (TC), com progressão do tumor em tratamento. Dada a má evolução, foi iniciado tratamento com PRRT, como o 177 Lutecio-Dotatate. Observou-se que os ciclos com 177 Lutecio-Dotatate obtiveram diminuição mínima no tamanho e captação do tumor em nível pancreático, as metástases hepáticas não apresentaram alterações e o paciente manteve-se clinicamente estável. Conclusão: o tratamento com 177Lutecio-Dotatate em um paciente com tumor neuroendócrino não funcionante com metástases, não ressecável cirurgicamente, produziu uma resposta aceitável para o tratamento paliativo, uma vez que não ocorreu progressão do tumor. O paciente permanece clinicamente estável, assintomático, com seguimento de 8 anos. O tratamento com 177Lu-Dotatate é uma opção eficaz com efeitos adversos limitados em tumores GEP-NET não ressecáveis ou metastáticos.

Melanoma cutáneo en Uruguay: características clínico-epidemiológicas y sobrevida en cohorte de pacientes de dos centros de referencia en el período 2008-2017 / Cutaneous melanoma in Uruguay: clinical and epidemiological survival in a cohort of patients assisted intwo reference centers between 2008-2017 / Melanoma cutâneo no Uruguai: características clínico-epidemiológicas e sobrevida em uma coorte de pacientes de dois centros de referência no período 2008-2017

Resumen: El melanoma cutáneo es el tumor que más ha aumentado en incidencia en los últimos años. Presenta alta letalidad en estadios avanzados. En nuestro país el promedio anual de casos sería de 129 en hombres, 117 en mujeres, con 50 y 30 muertes anuales respectivamente. Objetivo: describir y analizar el perfil clínico-epidemiológico y sobrevida de una cohorte de pacientes portadores de melanoma cutáneo asistidos en dos centros de referencia en Montevideo en el período comprendido entre 2008 y 2017. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, observacional de cohortes históricas en base a revisión de historias clínicas de los pacientes con diagnóstico de melanoma cutáneo asistidos en el Servicio de Oncología del Hospital de Clínicas y en la Unidad de Oncología cutánea del Instituto Nacional del Cáncer en el período comprendido entre 2008 y 2017, con un seguimiento de los casos hasta el 31 de julio de 2018. Resultados: se analizaron 173 pacientes, mediana de edad 61,2 años (14-89), 50,3% de sexo masculino y 49,7% de sexo femenino. La forma anátomo-clínica nodular fue la más frecuente (32,7%), seguida de la extensiva superficial (28,9%), siendo el resto menos frecuentes. No fue alcanzada la mediana de sobrevida global (SVG), siendo la tasa de SVG a cinco años de 68,5% y a diez años de 54,5%. La mediana de SVG en EIV fue de 12 meses (IC 95% 8,5-21,5). Conclusiones: los resultados de nuestra serie en SVG son similares a los reportados a nivel mundial, al igual que en la mayoría de las características clínico-epidemiológicas. Se trata del primer trabajo con reporte de sobrevida en melanoma cutáneo en nuestro país.

Summary: Cutaneous melanoma is the tumour whose incidence has increased the most in recent years. This condition is highly lethal in advanced stages. In our country the annual average of cases adds up to 129 in men and 117 in women, there being 50 and 30 respectively, every year. Objective: to describe and analyse the clinical and epidemiological profile and survival in a cohort of patients who are carriers of cutaneous melanoma and were assisted in two reference centers in Montevideo between 2008 and 2017. Methods: we conducted a descriptive, retrospective, observational study of historical cohorts, based on a review of the medical records in patients with a diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma assisted in the Oncology Service of the University Hospital and the Skin Oncology Unit of the National Cancer Institute between 2008 and 2017, with a follow-up until March 31, 2018. Results: 173 pacientes were analysed, median age was 61.2 years old (14-89), 50.3% were men and 49.7% were women. Nodular anatomo-clinical presentation was the most frequent form (32.7%), followed by superficial spreading (28.9%), other forms being less frequent. Median global survival was not achieved, global survival after 5 years being 68.5% and 54.5% after 10 years. Median global survival in Stage 4 was 12 months (IC 95% 8.5-21.5). Conclusions: the results in our series are similar to those reported internationally, in terms of global survival, the same as in most of the clinical an epidemiological characteristics. This is the first study with a cutaneous melanoma survival report in our country.

Resumo: O melanoma cutâneo é o tumor cuja incidência mostrou o maior incremento nos últimos anos. Nos estádios avançados apresenta alta letalidade. No Uruguai a média anual de casos seria de 129 em homens, 117 em mulheres, com 50 e 30 casos anuais respectivamente. Objetivo: descrever e analisar o perfil clínico-epidemiológico e a sobrevida de uma coorte de pacientes portadores de melanoma cutâneo atendidos em dois centros de referência em Montevidéu no período 2008- 2017. Métodos: um estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, observacional de coortes históricas foi realizado baseado na revisão dos prontuários dos pacientes com diagnóstico de melanoma cutâneo atendidos no Serviço de Oncologia do Hospital de Clínicas e na Unidade de Oncologia cutânea do Instituto Nacional del Cáncer no período 2008-2017, com um seguimento até 31/07/2018. Resultados: foram analisados 173 pacientes, com mediana de idade 61,2 anos (14-89), sendo 50,3% do sexo masculino e 49,7% feminino. A forma anátomo-clínica nodular foi a mais frequente (32,7%) seguido pela extensiva superficial (28,9%), as demais formas foram menos frequentes. Não foi possível alcançar a mediana de sobrevida global, sendo a taxa de SVG a 5 anos 68,5% e a 10 anos 54,5%. A mediana de SVG em EIV foi de 12 meses (IC 95% 8,5-21,5). Conclusões: os resultados da série estudada em sobrevida global são similares aos descritos internacionalmente, assim como a maioria das características clínico-epidemiológicas. Este é o primeiro trabalho que informa sobre a sobrevida em melanoma cutâneo no Uruguai.