Outcomes following brachytherapy boost for intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer: A retrospective bicenter study by the SFRO brachytherapy group.

INTRODUCTION: Radiotherapy dose escalation improves biochemical control in intermediate- or high-risk prostate cancer. Brachytherapy boost was shown to further improve biochemical control compared to radiotherapy alone in three randomized trials. The SFRO brachytherapy group sought to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of BT-boost for intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer in real life, and to determine prognostic factors for efficacy and toxicity. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A retrospective study was conducted, including all patients with intermediate- or high-risk prostate cancer treated with a combination of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and high dose-rate brachytherapy boost (HDR-BB), from 2006 until December 2019 at two centers. Patient characteristics, initial disease, treatment and follow-up were collected. RESULTS: 709 patients from two centers were analyzed given a short follow-up in the other centers. Out of those, 277 were intermediate risk (170 favorable and 107 unfavorable) and 432 were high risk. The median EBRT and HDR-BB doses were 46 Gy (35-50) and 14 Gy (10-20). After a median follow-up of 62 months, biochemical control at 5 years was 87.5 % for the overall population, 91 % and 85 % for intermediate- and high-risk cancers, respectively. At 5 years, biochemical and clinical relapse-free survival, metastasis-free survival and local control rates were 83 %, 90 % and 97 % respectively. 5-years overall survival was 94 %. Late grade 2 or higher GU or GI toxicity was found in 36 patients (5 %) and 9 patients (1.3 %). CONCLUSION: This bicenter analysis shows the efficacy and tolerability of HDR-BB as a complement to external radiotherapy. Further improvements such as combination with new hormonal agents or new brachytherapy-radiotherapy fractionation regimens are warranted to improve further the outcomes and therapeutic ratio.

10-Year oncological outcome report after second conservative treatment for ipsilateral breast tumor event.

Purpose: To analyze long-term oncological outcome after 2nd conservative treatment (2ndCT) for patients with ipsilateral 2nd ipsilateral breast tumor event (2ndIBTE). Materials/methods: In this retrospective observational study (N°F20210402152843), patients with 2ndIBTE underwent 2ndCT (lumpectomy + tumor bed re-irradiation). 3rdIBTE (3rdIBTE-FS), regional relapse- (RRFS) and metastatic disease- (MD-FS) free survivals as well as disease-free (DFS), specific (SS) and overall (OS) survival were analyzed. Late toxicity was reported. Results: Between 09/2000 and 04/2022, 244 patients presented a 2ndIBTE and underwent a 2ndCT. Among them, 113 pts with a minimum follow-up of 60 months were analyzed. Median time interval between 1st and 2ndIBTE was 13.5 years [2-35]. Median 2ndIBTE age was 66.2 years [31-85]. 2ndIBTE were adenocarcinomas (77 %). Tumor size was < 20 mm (86.7 %). 2ndIBTE were grade 1/2 (75 %), with positive hormonal receptor (85 %) and clear surgical margins (no ink on tumor, 90.3 %). In the APBI classification, 21 pts were high-risk (18.6 %), while 77 % were Luminal A/BHer2-. With a MFU of 121.5 months [CI95% 111.7-129.6], 10-year 3rdIBTE-FS was 89 % [83-96]. Then-year RRFS, MDFS, DFS, SS and OS were 94 % [89-100], 89 % [83-96], 78 % [70-87], 95 % [91-100] and 94 % [90 -99] respectively. In multivariate analysis, APBI classification (high-risk; HR2.66 [1.01-7.1], p = 0.049) and tumor size (≥20 mm; HR2.64 [1.02-6.8], p = 0.045) were considered independent prognostic factors for DFS.Ninety-seven late complications were observed (fibrosis 64 %) with 6.2 % G ≥ 3 late toxicity. Cosmetic outcome was excellent/good in 91.2 %. Conclusions: With long follow-up, 2ndIBTE managed with 2ndCT allows second breast preservation without oncological outcome compromise and acceptable G ≥ 3 toxicity.

Quality of life and Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) in older adults receiving Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) using a single fraction of Multi-Catheter Interstitial High-Dose Rate Brachytherapy (MIB). The SiFEBI phase I/II trial.

OBJECTIVES: The SiFEBI trial demonstrated that a post-operative Multicatheter Interstitial Brachytherapy (MIB) appears feasible and with acceptable toxicity in older adults aged 70 years and older presenting with low-risk breast cancer. The aim of the present ancillary study was to analyze the quality of life and Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) domains within 6 months in older adults receiving Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) using a single fraction of MIB. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 11/2012 to 09/2014, 37 patients were included and 26 were evaluable. Patients (pts) aged 70 years and older with a Balducci score of 1 or 2 and presenting with low-risk breast cancer were prospectively enrolled in this phase I/II trial (NCT01727011). After lumpectomy, intra-operative catheter implantation was performed for post-operative APBI after pathological findings. Quality of life (QoL) evaluation and CGA were scheduled at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after APBI. Autonomy decline was defined as a 1-point decrease in Activities of Daily Living (ADL). RESULTS: Mean age was 77 years. Within the first 6 months of follow-up, no autonomy decline was observed in ADL, 3 patients had an autonomy decline in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) and 2 patients had a slower gait speed but no changes in cognitive function, nutritional status, and depression screening. Global QoL was quite similar at baseline compared to 1, 3, and 6 months. No differences were observed for functional items. CONCLUSION: APBI based on a single fraction of MIB in older adults with low-risk breast cancer appears to be feasible with a minimal loss of autonomy regarding IADL, no loss of autonomy in ADL, an acceptable decrease in other CGA domains, and with no impact on global quality of life.

APBI Versus Ultra-APBI in the Elderly With Low-Risk Breast Cancer: A Comparative Analysis of Oncological Outcome and Late Toxicity.

PURPOSE: Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) represents a validated technique for low-risk breast cancer. Recently, ultra-APBI (uAPBI) using fewer than 5 fractions was described in the literature. We compared clinical outcomes and late toxicity after APBI or uAPBI in older patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Two cohorts of older patients (aged ≥70 years) with low-risk breast cancer treated with APBI (interstitial brachytherapy) were analyzed retrospectively. A total dose of 34 Gy in10 fractions (APBI) or 16 Gy in 1 fraction (uAPBI) was delivered from 2004 to 2012 and from 2013 to 2018, respectively. Oncologic outcome analyzed the cumulative incidence of local relapse, regional relapse, and distant metastases with disease-free survival, cause-specific survival, and overall survival. Late toxicity and cosmetic results were investigated. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-seven patients (APBI, n = 109 patients; uAPBI, n = 48 patients) underwent APBI according to the same selection criteria. Apart from the median follow-up (97 vs 72 months for APBI and uAPBI; P < .002), no significant difference was noted between the 2 groups. Regarding 6-year oncologic outcome, no significant difference was observed between APBI and uAPBI for local recurrence (1.3% vs 0%; P = .4), regional recurrence (2.5% vs 2.3%; P = .9), distant metastases (4.3% vs. 2.4%; P = .6), disease-free survival (85.2% vs. 82.2%; P = .8), cause-specific survival (96.7% vs. 96.2%; P = .9), and overall survival (86.7% vs. 82.2%; P = .7). Regarding late toxicity, no significant difference was observed between APBI and uAPBI (total complication number, 45 vs 33%; P = .173) with only grade 1 (88.4% vs. 95%) and grade 2 (11.6% vs. 5%) late toxicities (P = .677). Similarly, no significant difference was observed for excellent/good cosmetic results between the 2 cohorts (P = .98). CONCLUSIONS: We report the first study comparing APBI versus uAPBI in a cohort of older patients with low-risk breast cancer. No significant difference was found between the 2 treatment groups regarding oncologic outcome, late toxicity, and cosmetic result. uAPBI based on a single fraction of brachytherapy represents an attractive option for therapeutic de-escalation in older patients with breast cancer.

High-dose rate brachytherapy in localized penile cancer: 5-Year clinical outcome analysis.

PURPOSE: To analyze the oncological outcome and toxicity profile after conservative treatment based on multicatheter interstitial high-dose rate brachytherapy (MHB) for patients presenting a localized penile cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with histologically proven, non-metastatic (T1-T2 N0-N2 M0) localized penile cancer were treated with MHB. Needles were placed under general anesthesia into the target volume using a dedicated template. Treatment planning was performed using a post-implant CT-scan to deliver 35 Gy or 39 Gy (9f, 5d) for adjuvant or definitive treatment respectively. Five-year oncological outcome was evaluated with local relapse-free (LRFS), regional relapse-free (RRFS), and metastasis-free survival (MFS), specific (SS) and overall survival (OS). In pre-treatment and follow-up consultations, skin, urinary and sexual toxicities were investigated using CTCAEv4.0 classification, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and International Index of Erectile Function 5-items (IIEF-5). Dosimetry data were also analyzed. RESULTS: From 03/2006 to 05/2020, with a median follow-up of 72.4 months [3], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16], [17], [18], [19], [20], [21], [22], [23], [24], [25], [26], [27], [28], [29], [30], [31], [32], [33], [34], [35], [36], 29 pts, mainly T1 (75.9%) and N0 (89.7%), underwent MHB. Eleven (38%) and 18 pts (62%) received MHB as adjuvant or definitive treatment respectively. Five-year LRFS, RRFS, MFS, SS and OS were 82%, 82%, 89%, 88% and 73% respectively. Six patients (20.7%) experienced local relapse and underwent salvage penectomy leading to a penile preservation rate of 79.3%. Acute skin toxicity was reported 1 month after MHB, with 28% G1, 66% G2 and 6% G3. Late skin complications were telangiectasia for 5 pts (17%) and necrosis for 3 pts (10.3% requiring hyperbaric oxygen therapy). Comparing pre- and post-treatment status, no significant change was observed for skin appearance, IPSS and IIEF-5. CONCLUSION: MHB represents an efficient first line conservative treatment option for early penile cancers. Oncological outcome and late toxicity profile appear encouraging. However, larger-scale cohorts with longer follow-up are needed to more accurately precise the features of the best candidate to MHB.

Accelerated partial breast irradiation in the elderly: 8-year oncological outcomes and prognostic factors.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study is to evaluate long-term clinical outcomes and prognostic factors after accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) in the elderly using high-dose-rate interstitial multicatheter brachytherapy (HIBT). METHODS AND MATERIALS: Between 2005 and 2018, 109 patients underwent APBI using HIBT (34 Gy/10f/5d or 32 Gy/8f/4d). Based on a prospective database, outcomes were retrospectively analyzed (local relapse-free survival, metastatic-free survival, specific survival (SS), and overall survival (OS)). Prognostic factors were investigated. Late toxicity and cosmetic evaluation were reported. RESULTS: With a median followup of 97 months [7-159], median age was 81.7 years [58-89]. In accordance with the GEC-ESTRO APBI classification, 72.5%, 11.9%, and 15.6% were classified as low, intermediate, and high risk, respectively. The histological type was mainly invasive ductal carcinoma (87.1%). The median tumor size was 10 mm [range 1-35]. Eight-year local relapse-free survival, SS, and OS were 96.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) [0.923; 1]), 96.7% [95% CI [0.924; 1], and 72% [95% CI [0.616; 0.837], respectively. In univariate analysis, APBI classification was not considered as prognostic factor, whereas molecular classification was prognostic factor for OS (p < 0.0001), SS (p = 0.007), and metastatic-free survival (p = 0.009) but not for local recurrence (p = 0.586). No Grade ≥3 late toxicity was observed, whereas 61 patients (88.4%) and 8 patients (11.6%) presented Grade 1 and 2 toxicities, respectively. The cosmetic outcome was excellent/good for 96.4%. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term followup confirms that HIBT is safe and effective for elderly early breast cancer. Our results suggest that selected elderly women presenting with high-risk breast cancer could be also considered for APBI.

Salvage Mastectomy Versus Second Conservative Treatment for Second Ipsilateral Breast Tumor Event: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Analysis of the GEC-ESTRO Breast Cancer Working Group Database.

PURPOSE: Second conservative treatment has emerged as an option for patients with a second ipsilateral breast tumor event after conserving surgery and breast irradiation. We aimed to address the lack of evidence regarding second breast event treatment by comparing oncologic outcomes after conservative treatment or mastectomy. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Oncologic outcomes were analyzed using a propensity score-matched cohort analysis study on patients who received a diagnosis of a second breast event between January 1995 and June 2017. Patient data were collected from 15 hospitals/cancer centers in 7 European countries. Patients were offered mastectomy or lumpectomy plus brachytherapy. Propensity scores were calculated with logistic regression and multiple imputations. Matching (1:1) was achieved using the nearest neighbor method, including 10 clinical/pathologic data related to the second breast event. The primary endpoint was 5-year overall survival from the salvage surgery date. Secondary endpoints were 5-year cumulative incidence of third breast event, regional relapse and distant metastasis, and disease-free and specific survival. Complications and 5-year incidence of mastectomy were investigated in the conservative treatment cohort. RESULTS: Among the 1327 analyzed patients (mastectomy, 945; conservative treatment, 382), 754 were matched by propensity score (mastectomy, 377; conservative treatment, 377). The median follow-up was 75.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 65.4-83.3) and 73.8 months (95% CI, 67.5-80.8) for mastectomy and conservative treatment, respectively (P = .9). In the matched analyses, no differences in 5-year overall survival and cumulative incidence of third breast event were noted between mastectomy and conservative treatment (88% [95% CI, 83.0-90.8] vs 87% [95% CI, 82.1-90.2], P = .6 and 2.3% [95% CI, 0.7-3.9] vs 2.8% [95% CI, 0.8-4.7], P = .4, respectively). Similarly, no differences were observed for all secondary endpoints. Five-year cumulative incidence of mastectomy was 3.1% (95% CI, 1.0-5.1). CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the largest matched analysis of mastectomy and conservative treatment combining lumpectomy with brachytherapy for second breast events. Compared with mastectomy, conservative treatment does not appear to be associated with any differences in terms of oncologic outcome. Consequently, conservative treatment could be considered a viable option for salvage treatment.

Accelerated partial breast irradiation in the elderly: 5-Year results of the single fraction elderly breast irradiation (SiFEBI) phase I/II trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of a very-accelerated partial breast irradiation (vAPBI) in the elderly based on a single fraction of multicatheter interstitial high-dose rate brachytherapy (MIB). Mature results with a median follow-up of 5 years. METHODS AND MATERIALS: From November 2012 to September 2014, 26 patients (pts) (≥70) with early breast cancer were enrolled in a prospective phase II trial (NCT01727011). After lumpectomy, intraoperative catheter implant was performed for postoperative APBI (single fraction 16 Gy). Surveillance was performed twice a year after APBI. Oncologic outcome (local [LRFS], metastasis-free survival, cancer-specific survival, and overall survival [OS]) as well as late toxicity and cosmetic outcome were investigated. RESULTS: Median age was 77 years [69-89]. After a median follow-up of 63 months [60-68], 5-year LRFS, metastasis-free survival, cancer-specific survival, and overall survival rates were 100%, 95.5%, 100%, and 88.5%, respectively. Late toxicity was observed in 5 pts (19.2%) with a total of five events: 3 pts G1 (60%); and 2 pts G2 (40%). The observed late side effects were breast pain in 1 pt (G2 cytosteatonecrosis with occasional acetaminophen consumption), hypopigmentation (puncture site) in 2 pts (G1) and breast fibrosis in 2 pts (G1: 1 pt; G2: 1 pt). Cosmetic evaluation was excellent for 21 pts (81%) and good for 2 pts (19%). CONCLUSION: For elderly with early breast cancer, a vAPBI using a single fraction of postoperative MIB (16 Gy) provides excellent oncologic results, mainly in terms of local control and cancer death. Late toxicity and cosmetic profile are acceptable.

Five-year oncological outcome after a single fraction of accelerated partial breast irradiation in the elderly.

BACKGROUND: To update the clinical outcome of an elderly women cohort with early breast cancer who underwent accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) based on a post-operative single fraction of multicatheter interstitial high dose-rate brachytherapy (MIB). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A single institution retrospective cohort study was performed focusing on elderly patients (≥ 65 years old) presenting a low-risk breast carcinoma treated by lumpectomy plus axillary evaluation followed by MIB APBI. A single fraction of 16 Gy was prescribed on the 100% isodose. Clinical outcome at 5 years was reported based on local relapse free survival (LRFS), specific survival (SS) and overall survival (OS). Late toxicity was evaluated. Cosmetic results were evaluated clinically by the physician. RESULTS: Between January 2012 and August 2015, 48 women (51 lesions) were treated. Median age was 77.7 years (range: 65-92) with a median tumor size of 12 mm (range: 3-32). Five patients (pts) presented an axillary lymph node involvement (4 Nmic, 1 N1). Invasive ductal carcinoma was the most frequent histology type (86.3%). With a median follow-up of 64 months (range: 56-71), no local relapse occurred while 1 pt. developed an axillary relapse (2.1%). No Grade 3 or higher late toxicity was observed while 16 late toxicities occurred (G1: 14 events [87.5%) mainly G1 breast fibrosis). The rate of excellent cosmetic outcome was 76.4%. CONCLUSION: We confirmed the safety of the process and remained encouraging clinical outcome of a post-operative single fraction of MIB ABPI in the elderly. This approach leads to consider a very APBI as an attractive alternative to intra-operative radiation therapy while all the patients will be good candidates for APBI in regards to the post-operative pathological report.

GEC-ESTRO APBI classification as a decision-making tool for the management of 2nd ipsilateral breast tumor event.

AIM: Second ipsilateral breast tumor event (2ndIBTE) occurring after primary radio-surgical treatment can be treated by either salvage mastectomy or 2nd conservative treatment (2ndCT) including an accelerated partial breast re-irradiation (APBrI). We analyzed the impact of the GEC-ESTRO APBI classification (GAC) on the oncological outcome after APBrI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2000 and 2016, 159 patients (pts) underwent a 2ndCT. After lumpectomy, APBrI was performed using either low-dose (30-55 Gy reference isodose) or high-dose rate brachytherapy (28-34 Gy). Oncological outcome including 3rdIBTE, regional (RFS) or metastasis-free survival (MFS), specific (SS) and overall survival (OS) was analyzed according to GAC. Univariate (UVA) and multivariate analyses (MVA) were conducted to identify significant prognostic factors for 3rdIBTE. RESULTS: With a median follow-up of 71 months (range 62-85 months), 60 pts (42%), 61 pts (42.7%) and 22 pts (15.4%) were classified as low-risk (LR), intermediate-risk (IR) and high-risk (HR), respectively. For the whole cohort, 6-year 3rdIBTE-free survival, RFS, MFS, SS and OS rates were 97.4, 96.4, 90.3, 92.9 and 91.2%, respectively. Six-year 3rdIBTE-free survival rates for LR, IR and HR were 100, 95.8 and 92.9%, respectively (p = 0.003), while no significant differences were found between the three GAC groups for RFS, MFS, SS. In UVA, lympho-vascular invasion (p = 0.009), positive margins (p = 0.0001) and GAC high-risk group (p = 0.001) were considered as significant prognostic factors for 3rdIBTE, while, in MVA, high-risk group (p = 0.009) was the only prognostic factor. CONCLUSION: In case of 2ndIBTE, GAC could be used as a decision helping tool to discuss conservative or radical treatment options. Patient information remains crucial in order to accurately define the salvage therapy modalities.

Brachytherapy versus external beam radiotherapy boost for prostate cancer: Systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized trials.

BACKGROUND: Brachytherapy boost after external beam radiotherapy for intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer is presented as an attractive technique in numerous retrospective and prospective studies. Currently, three randomized controlled trials comparing brachytherapy versus external beam radiotherapy boost used non-homogenous irradiation features. Therefore, we analyzed the oncological outcomes by a systematic review with meta-analysis of the randomized controlled trials. METHODS: We performed a systematic literature review of MEDLINE and COCHRANE databases up to 30/04/10 and we considered all published randomized controlled trials comparing brachytherapy versus external beam radiotherapy boost for intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. The review was assessed using Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) tool and the identified reports were reviewed according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT). Eight publications from 3 RCTs were selected. RESULTS: There was a significant benefit in 5-year biochemical-progression-free survival in favor of BT versus EBRT boost (HR: 0.49 [95% CI, 0.37-0.66], p < 0.01). There was no difference at 5 years in overall survival (HR: 0.92 [95% CI, 0.64-1.33], p = 0.65), ≥ grade 3 late genito-urinary (RR: 2.19 [95%CI, 0.76-6.30], p = 0.15) and late gastro-intestinal toxicities (RR: 1.85 [95%CI, 1.00-3.41] p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis provides further evidence in favor of BT boost for intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer in terms of b-PFS improvement, leading to suggest BT boost as level I and grade A recommendation. However, the risk of grade ≥ 3 late toxicity must be carefully investigated.

Single fraction of accelerated partial breast irradiation in the elderly: early clinical outcome.

BACKGROUND: To analyze the clinical outcome of elderly women with early breast cancer who underwent accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) based on a post-operative single fraction of multicatheter interstitial high dose-rate brachytherapy (MIB). METHODS: A single institution retrospective cohort study was performed focusing on elderly patients (≥ 65 years old) presenting a low-risk breast carcinoma treated by lumpectomy plus axillary evaluation followed by MIB. A single fraction of 16 Gy was prescribed on the 100% isodose. Clinical outcome at 3 years was reported based on local relapse free survival (3-y LRFS), specific survival (SS) and overall survival (OS). Acute (< 180 days after APBI) and late toxicity were evaluated. Cosmetic results were clinically evaluated by the physician. RESULTS: Between January 2012 and August 2015, 48 women (51 lesions) were treated. Median age was 77.7 years (range: 65-92) with a median tumor size of 12 mm (range: 3-32). Five patients (pts) presented an axillary lymph node involvement (4 Nmic, 1 N1). Invasive ductal carcinoma was the most frequent histology type (86.3%). With a median follow-up of 40 months (range: 36-42), no local relapse occurred while 1 pt. developed axillary relapse (2.1%). The 3-y LRFS, SS and OS rates were 100%, 100% and 93.1% respectively. Forty-five acute events were remained. The most frequent acute toxicity was grade (G) 1 hyperpigmentation (26.7%), 3 pts. (6.3%) presented G3 acute toxicity (2 breast hematomas, 1 breast abscess). No ≥ G3 late toxicity was observed while 15 late toxicities occurred (G1: 13 events - 86.7%) mainly breast fibrosis). The rate of excellent cosmetic outcome was 76.4%. CONCLUSION: We reported promising and encouraging clinical outcome of a post-operative single fraction of MIB ABPI in the elderly. This approach leads to consider a sfAPBI as an attractive alternative to intra-operative radiation therapy while all the patients will be good candidates for APBI in regards to the post-operative pathological report. More mature results (number of patients and follow-up) are needed.

Multi-institutional evaluation of the reproducibility and the accuracy of the objective breast cosmesis scale.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present work is to assess the Objective Breast Cosmesis Scale (OBCS) in a patient cohort that was treated in two hospitals. Their treatment-related cosmetic changes were recorded on nonstandardized photographs. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Nineteen female patients were enrolled in two radiation oncology centers (Nice, France, and Perugia, Italy). All patients had undergone breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and received adjuvant accelerated partial breast irradiation using interstitial fractionated multicatheter high-dose-rate brachytherapy. One photograph before and another after accelerated partial breast irradiation was taken for each patient to record changes in breast cosmesis. Using the OBCS, before and after photographs were analyzed by measuring distances between anatomic features. OBCS scores from four doctors (two males [one radiation oncologist and one post-grad trainee] and two females [one radiation oncologist and one post-grad trainee]) were compared. RESULTS: Agreement was high between trainees and specialist, and males and females before and after treatment. The intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.867 to 0.950 before treatment and from 0.876 to 0.952 afterward. The coefficient of variation ranged from 12% to 26.5% before treatment, and from 13% to 21.4% afterward. CONCLUSIONS: The OBCS is easy, time-efficient, reproducible, cost-effective, and reliable. Its potential practical applications merit further investigation in future studies.

Accelerated partial breast irradiation for suitable elderly women using a single fraction of multicatheter interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy: Early results of the Single-Fraction Elderly Breast Irradiation (SiFEBI) Phase I/II trial.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: To evaluate feasibility and early clinical outcomes of a single fraction of multi-catheter interstitial high-dose rate brachytherapy for accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) in the elderly. MATERIAL/METHODS: From November 2012 to September 2014, 26 patients (≥70) with early breast cancer were enrolled in a prospective phase II trial (NCT01727011). After lumpectomy, intra-operative catheter implant was performed for post-operative APBI (single fraction 16 Gy). Surveillance was achieved at 1, 3 and 6 months after APBI, then twice a year. Acute toxicity was investigated. Early cosmetic outcome was analyzed (patient, radiation oncologist, 2 observers). Local and regional relapse-free survival, cancer specific survival and overall survival were analyzed. RESULTS: Median age was 77 years [69-89]. Median CTV was 41 cc [22-95]. Acute toxicity was observed in 18 pts (70%) with a total of 44 events: G1: 75.7%; G2: 22.8%; G3: 4.5%. Breast fibrosis (31.8%), puncture site inflammation (13.6%) and skin hyperpigmentation (11.4%) were the most frequent side effects. Cosmetic evaluation at 6 months was excellent/good in 88%, 92%, 85% and 88% for patient, radiation oncologist, observer #1 and #2 respectively. With a median follow-up of 37.2 months [35.6-42.3], side effects were G1: 4 pts (15%) and G2: 1 pt (4%). Three-year Local and regional relapse-free survival, cancer specific survival and overall survival rates were 100%, 100%, 100% and 95.2% respectively. CONCLUSIONS: For elderly early breast cancer, a post-operative multi-catheter interstitial high-dose rate brachytherapy single dose (16 Gy) appears feasible. Acute toxicity is acceptable as well as early cosmetic outcome. Oncologic outcome seems encouraging and allows going forward with new clinical trials focusing on single fraction APBI.

High-dose-rate brachytherapy boost for prostate cancer: Comparison of three different fractionation schemes.

PURPOSE: Dose escalation for prostate cancer can be achieved with a combination of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (BT) boost to increase local control. For high-dose-rate (HDR)-BT, optimal fractionation remains under debate. The objective was to assess the clinical outcome of three schemes of HDR-BT boost. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Retrospective single institution data collection was performed. Patients received 46 Gy EBRT then an HDR-BT boost: 3 × 6 Gy, 2 × 9 Gy, or 1 × 14 Gy. HDR needles were placed under general anesthesia with endorectal ultrasonography guidance. CT-scan and treatment were performed postoperatively. RESULTS: Between 2009 and 2012, 159 patients were included. Nine patients (5.7%) were low, 32 (20.1%) intermediate, and 118 (74.2%) high risk (D'Amico classification) without significant difference between the three BT schemes. With a median followup of 61 months, 5-year biochemical relapse-free survival, 5-year local relapse-free survival, 5-year metastases-free survival, and 5-year overall survival rates were 86.6% (SE 2.7%), 98.3% (SE 1%), 95.3% (SE 1%), and 96.5% (SE 1.5%), respectively, with no significant difference between the BT schemes. The rates of acute ≥ G2 genitourinary and ≥G2 gastrointestinal toxicities were 11.3% and 6.3%, respectively (p = NS). The rates of late genitourinary ≥ G2 and gastrointestinal ≥ G2 toxicities (at last followup) were 9.4% and 0.6% with, respectively, 0.6% and 0% of G4 (p = NS). CONCLUSIONS: Hypofractionation up to a single-fraction HDR-BT boost for prostate cancer yields similar results in terms of biochemical control and late toxicity compared with two or three-fraction schemes. Single fraction HDR-BT appears acceptable for boosting prostate cancer after definitive EBRT.

Accelerated partial breast irradiation for elderly women with early breast cancer: A compromise between whole breast irradiation and omission of radiotherapy.

PURPOSE: Regarding adjuvant radiation therapy making decision for elderly women, Albert (2013) published a nomogram predicting the mastectomy-free survival (MFS) rate with or without adjuvant irradiation. Based on this approach, we proposed to investigate the use of accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) vs. whole breast irradiation (WBI) or endocrine therapy alone in elderly low-risk breast cancer patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS: For each elderly woman treated by conserving surgery and APBI (multicatheter interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy), 5- and 10-year MFS rates were calculated. For each treated patient, using the Albert nomogram, we calculated the estimated MFS rates at 5 and 10 years, with and without WBI. Then, we compared the estimated MFS rates after no irradiation and WBI vs. observed MFS rates after APBI. RESULTS: From 2005 to 2016, 79 patients were treated. Median followup was 96.8 months [68.6-104.9], median age was 77 years [66-89]. Expected 5- and 10-year mastectomy rates calculated with the Albert nomogram without WBI were 2.95% and 7.25%, respectively, leading to a 10-year MFS rate of 92.7%. Expected 5- and 10-year mastectomy rates after WBI were 1.41% and 3.66%, respectively, leading to a 10-year MFS rate of 96.3%. Regarding observed MFS rate, 1 pt (1.3%) experienced a salvage mastectomy. The 10-year MFS rate after APBI was 97.4% vs. 96.3% after WBI (p = 1) and 92.7% after no irradiation (p = 0.27). No toxicity Grade 3 or more was observed. CONCLUSIONS: APBI seems to be an attractive compromise between WBI and no irradiation for elderly women with early stage breast cancer as far as local control, quality of life and cost benefit is concerned.

Salvage prostate re-irradiation using high-dose-rate brachytherapy or focal stereotactic body radiotherapy for local recurrence after definitive radiation therapy.

BACKGROUND: Optimal management of locally recurrent prostate cancer after definitive radiation therapy is still challenging. With the development of highly accurate radiotherapy devices, prostate salvage re-irradiation might generate lower toxicity rates than classical salvage therapies. We retrospectively evaluated the toxicity and the feasibility of a prostate re-irradiation after definitive radiation therapy failure. Two modalities were investigated: high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDRB) on whole prostate gland and focal stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) using CyberKnife® linac. METHODS: Between 2011 and 2015, 28 patients with imaged and/or biopsy-proven intra-prostatic recurrence of cancer after definitive radiation therapy underwent a salvage re-irradiation using HDRB (n = 10) or focal SBRT (n = 18). The schedule of re-irradiation was 35 Gy in 5 fractions. Biological response (defined as post-salvage radiation PSA variation) and biochemical no-evidence of disease (bNED) were evaluated in the whole cohort. For patients who had a positive biological response after salvage radiation, biochemical recurrence (BCR) and survival after salvage radiotherapy were evaluated. Post-salvage toxicities were assessed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v4.03 and were compared to baseline status. RESULTS: Within a median follow-up of 22.5 months (IQR = 8-42), 9 (90%) patients experienced a positive biological response after salvage HDRB and 5 (50%) remained bNED at the end of the follow-up. Among patients who initially responded to salvage HDRB, the BCR rate was 44.4% after a median interval of 19.5 months (IQR = 11.5-26). Only one patient experienced a transient grade 3 urinary complication. In the SBRT group, the median follow-up was 14.5 months (IQR = 7-23) and 10 (55.6%) out of the 18 patients remained bNED. Among the 15 patients who initially responded to salvage SBRT, 5 (33.3%) experienced a BCR. One patient experienced a transient grade 4 urinary complication. At the end of the follow-up, all evaluated patients had a urinary status grade variation ≤ +1 grade. No grade 3-4 digestive toxicity was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Salvage prostate re-irradiation for locally recurrent cancer is feasible and generate low toxicities rates when using with HDRB or focal SBRT. However, further investigations are necessary to confirm these findings and to determine predictive features for patients who might benefit from such an approach.

Radiotherapy for elderly patients and cetuximab, a monocentric study.

Concomitant radiotherapy and cetuximab association has shown superiority to exclusive radiotherapy for head and neck cancers. Data on this association are scarce for the elderly population despite its rising incidence. A retrospective monocentric data collection was performed in the Antoine Lacassagne Cancer Center in France. Inclusion criteria were: age >70 years at time of diagnosis, histologically proven head and neck epidermoid carcinoma, treated with radiotherapy combined with cetuximab. Thirty-five patients were included between 2008 and 2012. Median follow-up was 22 months. Median age was 74 years (70-86). Median performance status was 1 (0-2). Female/male sex ratio was 0.34. Tumor sites were: oropharynx (57.1 %), larynx (20 %), hypopharynx (14.3 %), oral cavity (2.9 %), nasopharynx (2.9 %), and lymph node with unknown primary (2.9 %). Using TNM classification, tumors were: T1 (5.9 %), T2 (35.3 %), T3 (35.3 %), T4 (22.9 %), N0 (28.6 %), N1 (8.6 %), N2 (48.6 %), and N3 (14.3 %). Median radiotherapy dose was 70 (60-70). RT was interrupted in 94 % of patients and the dose of cetuximab was reduced in 29 %. Median survivals were, respectively: 49 months for overall survival (standard error (SE) = 8) and 32 months for relapse-free survival (SE = 10). Two-year local-regional relapse and metastatic relapse-free survivals were, respectively, 59 % (SE = 10) and 74 % (SE = 10). Concomitant radiotherapy and cetuximab seem to be an effective therapy in the elderly population with encouraging results similar to the literature concerning its efficacy and toxicity. This treatment should be considered for patients >70 years.

Induction chemotherapy-based larynx preservation program for locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer: oncologic and functional outcomes and prognostic factors.

To evaluate oncologic and functional outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer included in an induction chemotherapy (ICT)-based larynx preservation program in daily clinical practice. All patients with locally advanced (T3/4, N0-3, M0) hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, technically suitable for total pharyngo-laryngectomy, treated by docetaxel (75 mg/m(2), day 1), cisplatin (75 mg/m(2), day 1) and 5-fluorouracil (750 mg/m(2)/day, day 1-5) (TPF)-ICT (2-3 cycles) for larynx preservation at our institution between 2004 and 2013, were included in this retrospective study. Prognostic factors of oncologic (overall, cause-specific and recurrence-free survival: OS, SS and RFS) and functional (dysphagia outcome and severity scale, permanent enteral nutrition, larynx preservation) outcomes were assessed in univariate and multivariate analyses. A total of 53 patients (42 men and 11 women, mean age 58.6 ± 8.2 years) were included in this study. Grade 3-4 toxicities were experienced by 17 (32 %) patients during ICT. The rate of poor response (response <50 % without larynx remobilization) to ICT was 10 %. At 5 years, OS, SS and RFS rates were 56, 60 and 54 %, respectively. Four patients required definitive enteral nutrition (permanent enteral tube feeding). The rate of patients alive, disease-free and with a functional larynx at 2 years was 58 %. T4 tumor stage (p = 0.005) and response to ICT <50 % (p = 0.02) were independent prognostic factors of OS. Response to ICT was significantly associated with the risk of permanent enteral nutrition (p = 0.04) and larynx preservation (p = 0.01). In daily clinical practice, a TPF-ICT-based larynx preservation protocol can be used in patients with locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer with satisfactory results in terms of tolerance, efficacy and oncologic and functional outcomes.