Sex Differences in the Survival of Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A Comparative Study of Two National Databases.

BACKGROUND: Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are increasing in incidence globally. Previous analysis of the UK cancer database (National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS)) showed a notable female survival advantage in most tumour sites. This study aims to compare NCRAS to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) to validate these results using the same statistical methods. METHODS: A total of 14,834 and 108,399 patients with NENs were extracted from NCRAS and SEER, respectively. Sixty-months survival for both males and females for each anatomical site of NENs were calculated using restricted mean survival time (RMST) and Kaplan-Meier Survival estimates. The sixty-month RMST female survival advantage (FSA) was calculated. RESULTS: FSA was similar in NCRAS and SEER. The highest FSA occurred in lung and stomach NENs. CONCLUSIONS: The data from SEER confirm the findings published by NCRAS. Female survival advantage remains unexplained.

Sex Differences in Survival from Neuroendocrine Neoplasia in England 2012-2018: A Retrospective, Population-Based Study.

Pre-clinical studies have suggested sex hormone signalling pathways may influence tumorigenesis in neuroendocrine neoplasia (NEN). We conducted a retrospective, population-based study to compare overall survival (OS) between males and females with NEN. A total of 14,834 cases of NEN diagnosed between 2012 and 2018, recorded in England's National Cancer Registry and Analysis Service (NCRAS), were analysed. The primary outcome was OS with 5 years maximum follow-up. Multivariable analysis, restricted mean survival time and mediation analysis were performed. Appendiceal, pulmonary and early-stage NEN were most commonly diagnosed in females; stomach, pancreatic, small intestinal, colonic, rectal and later-stage NEN were more often diagnosed in males. Females displayed increased survival irrespective of the stage, morphology or level of deprivation. On average, they survived 3.62 (95% CI 1.73-5.90) to 10.26 (6.6-14.45) months longer than males; this was statistically significant in NEN of the lung, pancreas, rectum and stomach (p < 0.001). The stage mediated improved survival in stomach, lung, and pancreatic NEN but not in rectal NEN. The reasons underlying these differences are not yet understood. Overall, females diagnosed with NEN tend to survive longer than males, and the stage at presentation only partially explains this. Future research, as well as prognostication and treatment, should consider sex as an important factor.

Development and Validation of Nomograms to Predict Survival in Patients Undergoing Complete Cytoreduction and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Pseudomyxoma Peritonei of Appendiceal Origin.

Importance: Pseudomyxoma peritoni, a rare condition characterized by mucinous ascites and peritoneal deposits, mainly originates from a ruptured mucinous appendix tumor and is considered an indolent disease but can progress and become fatal. Optimal treatment to improve cure and survival rates involves complete cytoreductive surgery (CCRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Accurate predictive models are useful in supporting and informing treatment strategies and stratifying patient follow-up. Objective: To evaluate the prognostic significance of clinically important variables and generate validated nomograms to predict overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) following CCRS and hyperthermic intraperitoneal HIPEC for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) of appendiceal origin. Design, Setting, and Participants: This retrospective study used prospectively collected data on patients who had cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and HIPEC in a single institution between 1994 and 2018. The cohort was randomly allocated into development (70%) and validation (30%) sets. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed with Cox proportional hazards regression. Main Outcomes and Measures: A prediction model was developed with significant prognostic factors identified by multivariate analysis. The model's prognostic performance was evaluated with the concordance index (C index). The nomogram was calibrated by comparing the predicted and observed probabilities. Results: Of 2637 CRS and HIPEC operations, 1102 patients (female, 64.4%; median age [IQR], 57.0 [48.0-66.0] years) (41.8%) had CCRS for PMP of appendiceal origin. Elevated tumor markers, peritoneal carcinomatosis index, gastrectomy, and tumor grade were independent predictive factors for DFS. Gender, age, elevated tumor makers, peritoneal carcinomatosis index, and tumor grade influenced OS. The nomograms were generated with respective prognostic factors. The nomograms showed good performance in predicting survival. Median OS of the cohort was 16.5 years (95% CI, 13.7-19.2) with a 5-year probability of survival of 80.2%. The median DFS was 10.3 years (95% CI, 7.2- 13.3) and the 5-year probability of recurrence-free survival was 60.5%. Conclusions and Relevance: Clinically important independent predictors for survival and recurrence were selected to develop the nomograms for OS and DFS. These 2 nomograms are user friendly and useful tools for patient management with clinical trial design applications.

Peri-operative thrombophilia in patients undergoing liver resection for colorectal metastases.

BACKGROUND: Routine chemical venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis for liver surgery remains controversial, and often delayed post-operatively due to perceived bleeding risk. This study asked whether patients undergoing hepatectomy for colorectal metastases (CRM) were at risk from VTE pre-operatively, and the impact of hepatectomy on that risk. METHODS: Single-centre prospective observational cohort study of patients undergoing open hepatectomy for CRM, comparing pre-, peri- and post-operative haemostatic variables. RESULTS: Of 336 hepatectomies performed October 2017-December 2019, 60 resections in 57 patients were recruited. There were 28 (46.7%) major resections, with median (interquartile range [IQR]) blood loss 150.0 (76.3-263.7) mls, no blood transfusions, post-operative VTE events or deaths. Patients were prothrombotic pre-operatively (high median factor VIIIC and increased thrombin generation velocity index), an effect exacerbated post-hepatectomy. Major hepatectomies had a significantly greater median drop in Protein C, rise in Factor VIIIC and von Willebrand Factor, versus minor resections (p = 0.001, 0.005, 0.001 respectively). Patients with parenchymal transection times greater than median (40 min), had significantly increased median (IQR) PMBC-TFmRNA expression [1.65(0.93-2.70)2ddCt], versus quicker transections [0.99(0.69-1.28)2ddCt, p = 0.020]. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CRM are prothrombotic pre-operatively, an effect exacerbated by hepatectomy, particularly longer, complex resections, suggesting chemical thromboprophylaxis be considered early in the patient pathway.

Primary renal neuroendocrine neoplasms: A systematic literature review, report of four local cases, and original survival analysis of 63 patients from a national registry 2012-2018.

Primary renal neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) are rare. We aimed to conduct a systematic review, present local cases, and analyse data from the England's National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS) to provide comprehensive evidence on clinical experience, incidence, and survival to better characterize these tumours. First, a systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method; second, a synthesis of local cases; and, finally, a retrospective population-based cohort analysis of renal NEN recorded between 2012 and 2018 on NCRAS were performed. Kaplan-Meier estimator was used to calculate overall survival and Cox proportional hazard regression to identify prognostic factors. Systematic review identified 48 articles and the evidence was summarized and presented. We reported data from four local cases presenting with abdominal and back pain but without carcinoid syndrome. In population-based analysis, we identified 63 cases of renal NEN between 2012 and 2018 from the registry. Age-standardized incidence was 0.09-0.32 per million with a median age of 64 years (interquartile range = 48-72 years). Survival was worse in males and those aged 64 years and over. Five-year survival for renal neuroendocrine tumours (NET) was 69.8% (95% confidence interval = 66.6-72.7) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NEC) was 38.4% (95% confidence interval = 34.6-42.0). No independent predictive factor was identified in the multivariable analyses. We have given a systematic review of evidence, published local experience, and reported incidence and survival of renal NEN in England for the first time. We have provided clinicians with evidence on diagnosis and proposed a treatment algorithm of theses rare tumours. The incidence and median age of presentation in England is similar to other published series. Renal NET has better survival than renal NEC as expected. A uniform classification system would reduce inconsistencies in reporting and standardize treatment decisions for this neoplasia.

Incidence and survival of neuroendocrine neoplasia in England 1995-2018: A retrospective, population-based study.

Background: Neuroendocrine neoplasia (NEN) incidence is rising internationally. We aimed to evaluate the epidemiology of NEN in England and examine changes in survival over time. Methods: A retrospective, population-based study using nationally representative data between 1995 and 2018 from the National Cancer Registry and Analysis Service (NCRAS) in England was conducted on 63,949 tumours. Age-standardized incidence was calculated using Office for National Statistics (ONS) data. Overall survival (OS) was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier estimator. Multivariable analysis was performed using an accelerated failure time model. Findings: Of 63,949 cases, 50.5% (32,309) were female. Age-adjusted incidence increased 3.7-fold between 1995 and 2018 from 2.35 to 8.61 per 100,000. In 2018, highest incidence occurred in lung (1.47 per 100,000), small intestine (1.46 per 100,000), pancreas (1.00 per 100,000) and appendix (0.95 per 100,000). In multivariable analysis, age, sex, morphology, stage, site and deprivation were independent predictors of survival (p < 0.001). Survival of the entire cohort, and by primary site, is improving over time. Interpretation: NEN incidence continues to rise in England with survival improving over time. Relatively high survival compared to other cancers is an issue for long-term outcomes and funding of care. Funding: Data were extracted and transferred using a grant from Neuroendocrine cancer UK.

Goblet Cell Adenocarcinoma of the Appendix: A Systematic Review and Incidence and Survival of 1,225 Cases From an English Cancer Registry.

Background: Goblet cell adenocarcinoma (GCA) of the appendix is a rare and aggressive tumour with varying nomenclature and classification systems. This has led to heterogeneity in published data, and there is a lack of consensus on incidence, survival, and management. Methods: We provide an overview of GCA with a comprehensive systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology and a retrospective analysis of all cases recorded in the English National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service database between 1995 and 2018. The Kaplan-Meier estimator was used to calculate overall survival, and Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify prognostic factors. Results: The systematic review demonstrated an incidence of 0.05-0.3 per 100,000 per year among North American registry studies. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rate was 95.5%, 85.9%-87.6%, and 76.0%-80.6%, respectively. Age, stage, and grade were identified as prognostic factors for survival. Our analysis included 1,225 cases. Age-standardised incidence was 0.0335 per year in 1995 and gradually rose to 0.158 per year in 2018. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rate was 90.0% [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 85.4-94.0], 76.0% (95% CI: 73.8-80.9), and 68.6% (95% CI: 65.9-72.2), respectively. On univariate Cox regression analyses, female sex, stage, and grade were associated with worse overall survival. On multivariate analysis, only stage remained a statistically significant prognostic factor. Conclusions: GCA of the appendix is rare, but incidence is increasing. We report a lower incidence and survival than North American registry studies. Higher stage was associated with decreased survival. Further prospective studies are required to establish optimal management.

Seroprevalence to adeno-associated virus type 6 in people with hemophilia B from a UK adult cohort.

Background: Gene therapy shows promise as a potential "cure" for hemophilia A and B. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are the leading platform to deliver modified genetic code of factor VIII or IX to the liver effecting endogenous production. Patient exposure to wild-type AAV leads to the formation of neutralizing factors, which can prevent successful transduction. It is thus important to establish the seroprevalence of the AAV serotypes in people with hemophilia to aid prediction of successful gene transfer. The seroprevalence of AAV6 in UK people with hemophilia B is not yet reported. Objectives: We studied the prevalence of anti-AAV6 neutralizing factors in UK people with hemophilia B (n = 49). We collected data on people's hepatitis C exposure and treatment with plasma-derived factor IX (FIX) to identify if there was correlation with AAV6 exposure. Methods: Serum samples and patient data were collected from 49 people with hemophilia B registered at UK hemophilia comprehensive care centers. The samples were tested for neutralizing factors to AAV6 using a cell-based transduction inhibition assay. Results: Thirty-one percent of patients had serum neutralization against AAV6. There was no correlation between AAV6 seropositivity and previous treatment with plasma-derived FIX products or hepatitis C exposure. Conclusion: Based on limited data, there is no evidence of association between the presence of AAV6 neutralizing factors in people with hemophilia B and exposure to contaminated plasma derivatives. The frequency of AAV6 neutralizing factors in our hemophilia B cohort is similar to UK people with hemophilia A and non-hemophilia populations.

Fear of cancer recurrence in peritoneal malignancy patients following complete cytoreductive surgery (CCRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): an observational study protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is correlated with higher depression levels, worse quality of life and increased utilisation of healthcare services. There is no research on FCR in peritoneal malignancy (PM) patients-a rare type of abdominal cancer. This study aims to explore the prevalence, trajectory, demographic and clinical characteristics that are associated with FCR and its relationship with quality of life in PM patients. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is a cross-sectional study. Validated measures will be used to collect data on the levels of FCR (Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory-Short Form) and quality of life (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey) of PM patients who have had surgery in the last 5 years at the Peritoneal Malignancy Institute in Basingstoke Hospital (minimum N=260). Descriptive statistics, Pearson χ2 tests and correlational tests will be used to analyse the data. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval was obtained from the HRA and Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW). The results of this study will be shared with the participants of this study, presented at conferences and PM patients' days in the form of presentations or posters, and published in a scientific journal. DISCUSSION: The results of this exploratory study will be used to inform a multicentre observational study to explore the effect of FCR on PM patients' mental health (depression and anxiety), quality of life and healthcare utilisation which will inform a multicentre randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of using evidenced-based interventions to lower FCR in PM patients.

Early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in 632 patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendiceal origin: A single institution experience.

BACKGROUND: There is ongoing controversy concerning the indications and benefits of early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intra-peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei. The main contra-indications preventing wide-spread use of EPIC are reports of an increased postoperative morbidity with no clear evidence of oncological benefit. This paper reports a single high volume institution experience with EPIC over a 25-year period. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of a single institution prospective database of patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for appendiceal neoplasms from March 1994 to December 2019. Sub group analysis of patients who received EPIC with 5FU 15mg/m2 is reported and compared with patients who did not receive EPIC. RESULTS: Overall, 632/1564 (40%) received EPIC. Patients who received EPIC were younger (median age 55 (IQR 45-63) vs 59 (IQR 50-68)) with similar extent of disease to those who did not have EPIC. EPIC was more likely to be given after complete cytoreduction. The use of EPIC has reduced over the last 25 years from 78% of patients initially to 16% most recently. Length of stay in critical care and total hospital stay were longer in patients who received EPIC but surprisingly major morbidity (Clavien Dindo Grade >3) was lower (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: EPIC can be administered safely following CRS and HIPEC for PMP of appendix origin when used in carefully selected patients in a high-volume centre. Randomised trials are needed to establish impact on disease free and overall survival to optimize selection criteria.

The effect of modified Pilates-based positions on pelvic floor electromyographic (EMG) activity; a pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: The evidence regarding the effect of exercise, specifically Modified Pilates (MP), on pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) is limited. We report our pilot study using the MAPLe® device to assess the effect of MP type exercises on PFM electomyographic (EMG) activity and whether PFM contraction could be performed during specific MP exercises. METHODS: The MAPLe® device was used to measure EMG activity of PFMs in healthy volunteers in different MP positions. Positions were divided into 'neutral', 'core' and 'plank' and EMG readings were taken at rest, during Valsalva and during active contraction. RESULTS: Twenty volunteers were recruited. The median age was 35 (IQR 27-39.5) years. Higher EMG readings were seen in 'core' and 'plank' positions at rest. No position inhibited a conscious contraction and positions which engaged core muscles provoked an augmented contraction. CONCLUSION: This is the first study to show that when MP positions are held for short periods of time, in asymptomatic women, the changes in PFM EMG are higher. This suggests that a stronger muscle contraction can be achieved when the core is co-contracted. Higher EMG readings were seen during 'core' and 'plank' positions; despite this, further activation with a conscious PFM contraction was still achievable.

Mode of Presentation in 1070 Patients With Perforated Epithelial Appendiceal Tumors, Predominantly with Pseudomyxoma Peritonei.

BACKGROUND: Perforated epithelial appendiceal tumors are uncommon and can give rise to pseudomyxoma peritonei. Pseudomyxoma peritonei is rare, almost always of appendiceal origin, and presents in various ways relevant to abdominal surgeons. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to report the mode of presentation of pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendiceal origin in patients treated in a high-volume UK peritoneal malignancy center. DESIGN: A retrospective observational study was conducted. SETTINGS: This was a single-center study. PATIENTS: Retrospective analysis of a prospective database of consecutive patients undergoing surgery between March 1994 and December 2016 was performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Mode of presentation was classified into 7 categories: "histological diagnosis at abdominal surgery for presumed appendicitis," "probable pseudomyxoma peritonei" based on abnormality on cross-sectional imaging (± image-guided biopsy)," "abnormal imaging (other cause suspected) and operative finding of pseudomyxoma peritonei," "diagnostic laparoscopy," "ovarian mass," "new-onset hernia," and "miscellaneous." RESULTS: Overall, 1070 patients underwent surgery (female 61%, male 39%); median age was 57. The mode of presentation was abnormality on cross-sectional imaging in 324 of 1070 patients (30.3%), histological diagnosis at emergency surgery for presumed appendicitis in 203 of 1070 patients (19%), and abnormal imaging with eventual pseudomyxoma peritonei diagnosis in 180 of 1070 patients (16.8%); 124 of 651 women (19.2%) presented with an ovarian mass. New-onset hernia was the presenting feature in 9.9%; 83 of 1070 patients (7.7%) were diagnosed at diagnostic laparoscopy, and 32 of 1070 patients (3%) were described as "miscellaneous." Overall, 775 of 1070 patients (72.4%) had complete cytoreductive surgery with 10-year survival of 63.5%. LIMITATIONS: Results are limited by the retrospective nature of the study, radiological improvements over the study period, and the number of patients who had overlapping features at presentation. CONCLUSION: Perforated appendiceal tumors present in various ways but predominantly at cross-sectional imaging or coincidentally at laparoscopy or laparotomy. All abdominal surgeons will occasionally encounter cases, often unexpectedly, and recognition and referral to a specialized unit results in excellent outcomes in most cases. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B256. MODO DE PRESENTACIÓN EN 1070 PACIENTES CON TUMORES EPITELIALES APENDICULARES PERFORADOS, PREDOMINANTEMENTE CON PSEUDOMIXOMA PERITONEAL: Los tumores epiteliales apendiculares perforados son poco frecuentes y pueden dar lugar a Pseudomyxoma peritonei. El pseudomixoma peritoneal es raro, casi siempre de origen apendicular, y se presenta de diversas formas relevantes para los cirujanos abdominales.El objetivo fue informar el modo de presentación del Pseudomixoma peritoneal de origen apendicular en pacientes tratados en un centro de malignidad peritoneal de alto volumen en el Reino Unido.Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo.Este fue un estudio de centro único.Análisis retrospectivo de una base de datos prospectiva de pacientes consecutivos sometidos a cirugía entre marzo de 1994 y diciembre de 2016.El modo de presentación se clasificó en 7 categorías: "diagnóstico histológico en la cirugía abdominal por presunta apendicitis", "probable Pseudomixoma peritoneal" basado en la anormalidad en la imagen de corte transversal (biopsia guiada por imagen +/-), "imagen anormal (se sospecha otra causa) y hallazgo quirúrgico de Pseudomixoma peritoneal", "laparoscopia diagnostica", "masa ovarica", "hernia de reciente aparicion" y "varios".En total, 1070 pacientes fueron operados (mujeres 61%, hombres 39%); edad media 57. El modo de presentación fue anormalidad en la imágen transversal en 324/1070 (30.3%), el diagnóstico histológico en cirugía de emergencia por presunta apendicitis en 203/1070 (19%), la imágen anormal con eventual diagnóstico de Pseudomixoma peritoneal en 180 / 1070 (16.8%), 124/651 (19.2%) las mujeres presentaron una masa ovárica. La hernia de reciente aparición fue la característica de presentación en 9.9%, 83/1070 (7.7%) fueron diagnosticados por laparoscopia diagnóstica y 32/1070 (3%) "misceláneos". En general, 775/1070 (72,4%) se sometió a cirugía citorreductora completa con una supervivencia a 10 años del 63,5%.Una deficiencia es que los resultados están limitados por la naturaleza retrospectiva del estudio, las mejoras radiológicas a lo largo del período de estudio, y varios pacientes tenían características superpuestas en la presentación.Los tumores apendiculares perforados se presentan de varias maneras, pero predominantemente en imágenes transversales o casualmente en laparoscopia o laparotomía. Todos los cirujanos abdominales encontrarán ocasionalmente con casos, a menudo inesperados, y el reconocimiento y la derivación a una unidad especializada da lugar a excelentes resultados en la mayoría de los casos. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B256.).

Adenovirus-associated antibodies in UK cohort of hemophilia patients: A seroprevalence study of the presence of adenovirus-associated virus vector-serotypes AAV5 and AAV8 neutralizing activity and antibodies in patients with hemophilia A.

BACKGROUND: Current treatment for severe hemophilia A is replacement of deficient factor. Although replacement therapy has improved life expectancy and quality, limitations include frequent infusions and high costs. Gene therapy is a potential alternative that utilizes an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector containing the human genetic code for factor 8 (FVIII) that transduces the liver, enabling endogenous production of FVIII. Individuals with preexisting immunity to AAV serotypes may be less likely to benefit from this treatment. OBJECTIVES: This study measured seroprevalence of antibodies to AAV5 and 8 in an UK adult hemophilia A cohort. PATIENTS/METHODS: Patients were recruited from seven hemophilia centres in the UK. Citrated plasma samples from 100 patients were tested for preexisting activities against AAV5 and 8 using AAV transduction inhibition and total antibodies assays. RESULTS: Twent-one percent of patients had antibodies against AAV5 and 23% had antibodies against AAV8. Twenty-five percent and 38% of patients exhibited inhibitors of AAV5 or AAV8 cellular transduction respectively. Overall seroprevalence using either assay against AAV5 was 30% and against AAV8 was 40% in this cohort of hemophilia A patients. Seropositivity for both AAV5 and AAV8 was seen in 24% of participants. CONCLUSIONS: Screening for preexisting immunity may be important in identifying patients most likely to benefit from gene therapy. Clinical studies may be needed to evaluate the impact of preexisting immunity on the safety and efficacy of AAV mediated gene therapy.

Outcomes of cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal mesothelioma and predictors of survival.

BACKGROUND: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) benefits selected patients with peritoneal mesothelioma. We present the outcomes of this treatment strategy in a UK peritoneal malignancy national referral centre. METHODS: Observational retrospective analysis of data prospectively collected in a dedicated peritoneal malignancy database between March 1998 and January 2016. RESULTS: Of 1586 patients treated for peritoneal malignancy, 76 (4.8%) underwent surgery for peritoneal mesothelioma. Median age was 49 years (range 21-73 years). 34 patients (45%) were female. Of the 76 patients, 39 (51%) had low grade histological subtypes (mostly multicystic mesothelioma), and 37 (49%) had diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM; mostly epithelioid mesothelioma). Complete cytoreduction was achieved in 52 patients (68%) and maximal tumour debulking (MTD) was performed in 20 patients (26%); the remaining 4 patients (5%) underwent a laparotomy with biopsy only. HIPEC was administered in 67 patients (88%). Median overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) after CRS was 97.8 (80.2-115.4) and 58.8 (47.4-70.3) months, respectively. After complete cytoreduction, 100% overall survival was observed amongst patients with low-grade disease. Ki-67 proliferation index was significantly associated with survival outcomes after complete cytoreduction for DMPM and was an independent predictor of decreased survival. CONCLUSION: With adequate patient selection (guided by histological classification and Ki-67 proliferation index) and complete cytoreduction with HIPEC, satisfactory outcomes can be achieved in selected patients with peritoneal mesothelioma.

Diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in assessment and management of patients with appendiceal neoplasms.

INTRODUCTION: Radiological imaging often underestimates the extent of low volume peritoneal disease. The benefit of laparoscopy in assessing peritoneal metastases from colorectal and gastric cancer is accepted, but is inconclusive for appendiceal malignancy. We report our experience of diagnostic (DL) and therapeutic laparoscopy (TL) in patients with appendiceal tumours to determine indications and role in assessment and management. METHODS: A retrospective review of a National Peritoneal Malignancy Centre's prospectively maintained database was performed. All patients with appendiceal neoplasms who underwent DL or TL between September 2011 and January 2016 were included. The indications and outcomes of the laparoscopy, complications and interval to laparotomy were evaluated. RESULTS: Six hundred and eighty-five patients underwent surgery for appendiceal neoplasms during the study period, of which 73 (10.6%) underwent laparoscopy (50 DL, 23 TL). The main indications for DL were to clarify imaging and stage patients with high-risk histology. Indications for TL were an abnormal appendix without gross pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) or with low volume PMP, and concerns for fertility in the presence of PMP. DL resulted in 16 patients (32%) avoiding laparotomy because of extensive disease or no tumour found. Overall, 28 patients were assessed to have resectable disease and at laparotomy, 25/28 had complete cytoreduction with three patients unresectable. In the TL group, appendicectomy and peritoneal lavage was achieved in all four women with fertility concerns, allowing them to conceive thereafter. There were no complications. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with high-risk appendiceal neoplasm may benefit from DL, and potentially avoid unnecessary laparotomy. TL is useful in patients with low volume PMP and may aid fertility in selected patients.

The pre-operative neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio predicts overall and disease-free survival following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients with pseudomxyoma peritonei of appendiceal origin.

AIM: The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and other inflammation-based scores have been used as a prognostic tool to predict survival in solid tumours including pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). The aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of this marker and risk stratify PMP patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). METHODS: Retrospective analysis was conducted of a prospectively collected database of patients with PMP who underwent CRS and HIPEC between 1994 and 2015. The NLR was calculated by dividing the pre-operative neutrophil count by lymphocyte count. Predicted overall survival (OS) and disease-free interval (DFI) were calculated using a Kaplan-Meier survival model. RESULTS: The study included 699 patients, stratified into four groups as defined by their NLR. Group A: 200 (28.6%) patients (NLR = 0.10-2.00), Group B: 160 (22.8%) patients (NLR = 2.10-2.78), Group C: 184 (26.3%) patients (NLR = 2.79-4.31) and Group D: 155 (22.2%) patients (NLR ≥ 4.32). The median follow-up for this cohort was 36 months. The predicted DFI was 132.2, 113.1, 84.4 and 47.9 months and the OS was 141.1, 117.6, 88.7 and 51.2 months for Groups A, B, C and D, respectively. As the NLR increases, there is a reduction in long-term survival. CONCLUSION: The pre-operative NLR is cost effective and has equivalent prognostic value to pre-operative tumour markers for patients with PMP treated with CRS and HIPEC. The NLR is a reliable tool that may have a role in predicting outcomes following CRS and HIPEC for patients with PMP of appendiceal origin.

Peritoneal Involvement Is More Common Than Nodal Involvement in Patients With High-Grade Appendix Tumors Who Are Undergoing Prophylactic Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND: Right hemicolectomy is routinely recommended in patients with histologic findings of high-grade appendix tumors after appendicectomy. Undetected peritoneal disease may be encountered at surgery. In high-grade appendix tumors with disease detected radiologically, complete cytoreduction may not be possible and outcomes poor. For these reasons, we adopted a policy of prophylactic cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to quantify the rates of peritoneal and nodal metastatic disease in patients with high-grade appendix tumors without obvious metastatic disease and to report the long-term outcomes of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in these patients. DESIGN: Data regarding peritoneal and nodal metastatic disease were extracted from surgical and histologic records. SETTINGS: The study was conducted at a high-volume tertiary referral center for peritoneal malignancy. PATIENTS: Patients referred with histologically high-grade appendix tumors at appendicectomy, without detectable metastatic spread, between January 1994 and September 2016 were included MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:: A total of 62 patients with high-grade pathology at appendicectomy, without clinical or radiological peritoneal disease, underwent complete cytoreduction with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. RESULTS: Thirty-five (57%) of 62 patients had peritoneal disease (median peritoneal cancer index 5 (range, 1-28)). Eleven (31%) of 35 had microscopic peritoneal disease. Overall, 23 (37%) of 62 had peritoneal disease beyond the confines of a standard right hemicolectomy. Nine (15%) of 62 had nodal involvement. Mean overall and disease-free survival were 110.9 (95% CI, 94.8-127.0 mo) and 102.1 months (95% CI, 84.3-119.9 mo), with 5-year overall and disease-free survival of 83.2% and 76.0%. LIMITATIONS: The retrospective nature limits the interpretation of these results. CONCLUSIONS: Complete cytoreduction was achieved in all of the patients, with excellent long-term survival. The incidence of peritoneal spread (57%) compared with nodal involvement (15%) supports cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy as definitive treatment rather than prophylaxis in patients with high-grade appendix tumors, even without radiologically detectable disease. High-grade appendix tumors benefit from early aggressive operative management to deal with potential peritoneal and nodal spread and should be considered for cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A360.

Advanced Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Requiring Gastrectomy to Achieve Complete Cytoreduction Results in Good Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Optimal outcomes in pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) require complete macroscopic tumor removal by cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Partial or complete gastrectomy may be required with ongoing debate as to the risks and benefits of gastrectomy in what is often a low-grade malignancy. METHODS: Retrospective single-center analysis of 1014 patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for PMP of appendiceal origin. Complications and survival were compared in patients who had gastrectomy versus the nongastrectomy cohort. RESULTS: Of 1014 patients, 747 (74 %) had CRS and HIPEC with complete cytoreduction. Overall, 86 (12 %) of 747 had partial (n = 80) or total (n = 6) gastrectomy. Median age was 55 years for gastrectomy patients and 56 for nongastrectomy patients (p = 0.591). Preoperative tumor markers [carcinoembryonic antigen, carbohydrate antigen (CA) 125 and CA19-9] were elevated more frequently in the gastrectomy group compared to the nongastrectomy group [81, 61 and 81 % compared to 41 % (p = 0.001), 20 % (p = 0.001) and 39 % (p = 0.001), respectively]. The proportion of high-grade histology was similar in the two groups (gastrectomy 19 % vs. nongastrectomy 18 %, p = 0.882). Postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo III-IV) were 31 % for the gastrectomy group and 13 % for the nongastrectomy group (p = 0.001). The 30-day postoperative mortality was 3 (0.5 %) of 661 for the nongastrectomy group and 1 (1.2 %) of 86 for the gastrectomy group (p = 0.387). Three- and 5-year overall survival were 96 and 88 % in the nongastrectomy group and 87 and 77 % in the gastrectomy group (p = 0.018). Three- and 5-year disease-free survival were 89 and 77 % in the nongastrectomy group versus 66 and 48 % in the gastrectomy group (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Gastrectomy is an essential component of complete cytoreduction in advanced PMP and was required in 12 % of patients with good long-term survival.

Cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy for colorectal peritoneal metastases.

AIM: To systematically review the available evidence regarding cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) for colorectal peritoneal metastases (CPM). METHODS: An electronic literature search was carried out to identify publications reporting oncological outcome data (overall survival and/or disease free survival and/or recurrence rates) following CRS and IPC for treatment of CPM. Studies reporting outcomes following CRS and IPC for cancer subtypes other than colorectal were only included if data were reported independently for colorectal cancer-associated cases; in addition studies reporting outcomes for peritoneal carcinomatosis of appendiceal origin were excluded. RESULTS: Twenty seven studies, published between 1999 and 2013 with a combined population of 2838 patients met the predefined inclusion criteria. Included studies comprised 21 case series, 5 case-control studies and 1 randomised controlled trial. Four studies provided comparative oncological outcome data for patients undergoing CRS in combination with IPC vs systemic chemotherapy alone. The primary indication for treatment was CPM in 96% of cases (2714/2838) and recurrent CPM (rCPM) in the remaining 4% (124/2838). In the majority of included studies (20/27) CRS was combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). In 3 studies HIPEC was used in combination with early post-operative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC), and 2 studies used EPIC only, following CRS. Two studies evaluated comparative outcomes with CRS + HIPEC vs CRS + EPIC for treatment of CPM. The delivery of IPC was performed using an "open" or "closed" abdomen approach in the included studies. CONCLUSION: The available evidence presented in this review indicates that enhanced survival times can be achieved for CPM after combined treatment with CRS and IPC.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: an emerging treatment option for advanced goblet cell tumors of the appendix.

BACKGROUND: The debate remains whether appendiceal goblet cell cancers behave as classical carcinoid or adenocarcinoma. Treatment options are unclear and reports of outcomes are scarce. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS+HIPEC) is considered optimal treatment for peritoneal involvement of other epithelial appendiceal tumors. METHODS: Prospective cohorts of patients treated for advanced appendiceal tumors from three peritoneal malignancy centres were collected (1994-2011). All patients underwent complete CRS+HIPEC, when possible, or tumor debulking. Demographic and outcome data for patients with goblet cell cancers were compared to patients with low- or high-grade epithelial appendiceal tumors treated during the same time period. RESULTS: Details on 45 goblet cell cancer patients were compared to 708 patients with epithelial appendix lesions. In the goblet cell group, 57.8 % were female, median age was 53 years, median peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 24, and CRS+HIPEC was achieved in 71.1 %. These details were similar in patients with low- or high-grade epithelial tumors. Lymph nodes were involved in 52 % of goblet cell patients, similar to rates in high-grade cancers, but significantly higher than in low-grade lesions (6.4 %; p < 0.001). At 3 years, overall survival (OS) was 63.4 % for goblet cell patients, intermediate between that for high-grade (40.4-52.2 %) and low-grade (80.6 %) tumors. On multivariate analysis, tumor histology, PCI, and achievement of CRS+HIPEC were independently associated with OS. CONCLUSIONS: This data supports the concept that appendiceal goblet cell cancers behave more as high-grade adenocarcinomas than as low-grade lesions. These patients have reasonable long-term survival when treated using CRS+HIPEC, and this strategy should be considered.