Upfront Multiplex Gene Test Helps Prolong Survival in Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Detection of genetic abnormalities is crucial for selecting an appropriate therapy to effectively treat advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Multiplex genetic testing aids the selection of appropriate therapy and tailored treatments; however, its impact on survival remains unexplored. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Using data from 112 patients with advanced or recurrent NSCLC between February 2020 and April 2023, we investigated the impact of multiplex genetic tests, conducted before the initiation of systemic therapy, on survival. RESULTS: Multiplex genetic test was performed on 72 patients (MPL group). Among the remaining 40 patients (non-MPL group), 18 underwent ≥1 single-plex genetic test, including tests for EGFR (18), ALK (14), and ROS1 (8). The frequency of EGFR mutations in the MPL and non-MPL groups was similar (28% and 25%, respectively), whereas alterations in KRAS, ALK, MET, HER2, and RET levels (5, 4, 4, 4, and 1, respectively) were exclusively detected in the MPL group. The MPL group exhibited a significantly improved survival rate compared to the non-MPL group (median survival time 20.6 vs. 9.3 months, p=0.009). CONCLUSION: Multiplex genetic testing, before the initiation of systemic treatment, could potentially enhance prognosis by uncovering a wide range of non-EGFR gene abnormalities. Multiplex genetic tests could be crucial for the effective application of modern anticancer therapeutic strategies.

The effect of 1-hydroxy-vitamin D treatment in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: The efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 1-hydroxy-vitamin D on the prevention of severe disease and mortality in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. METHODS: This retrospective study included 312 patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to our hospital between April 2021 and October 2021 (primarily the Delta variant) and between July 2022 and September 2022 (primarily Omicron variant). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels were measured at the time of admission and 1-hydroxy-vitamin D was prescribed by the treating physicians. The patients were divided into two groups: those administered 1-hydroxy-vitamin D (Vit D group) and those who were not (control group). The composite primary endpoint was the need for additional respiratory support, including high-flow oxygen therapy or invasive mechanical ventilation, and in-hospital mortality rate. RESULTS: Of 312 patients, 122 (39%) received 1-hydroxy-vitamin D treatment. Although the median age was not significantly higher in the Vit D group than in the control group (66 vs. 58 years old, P = 0.06) and there was no significant difference in the proportion of vitamin D deficiency (defined as serum 25(OH)D level less than 20 ng/mL, 77% vs. 65%, P = 0.07), patients in the control group had a more severe baseline profile compared to the Vit D group according to the Japanese disease severity definition for COVID-19 (P = 0.01). The proportion of those requiring more respiratory support and in-hospital mortality was significantly lower in the Vit D group than in the control group (6% vs. 14%, P = 0.01 log-rank test). After propensity score matching, a statistically significant difference in the primary endpoint was observed (P = 0.03 log-rank test). CONCLUSIONS: 1-hydroxy-vitamin treatment may improve outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, reducing composite outcomes including the need for additional respiratory support and in-hospital mortality.