Sunday, January 24, 2010
Green Tea May Have Cancer Benefit - in Meeting Coverage, AACR-IASLC 2010 conference
"Experimental studies have suggested that one mechanism for chemoprevention with green tea may be its impact on insulin-like growth factors."
Search of: Open Studies | Interventional Studies | solid tumors | Adult | Phase II III IV - List Results - ClinicalTrials.gov
search results = 137 clinical trials
Saturday, January 23, 2010
full free access: Early-onset breast cancer in a Lebanese family with Lynch syndrome due to MSH2 gene mutation
"Background: There are still controversies about the integration of breast cancer as a part of the disease spectrum in Lynch syndrome."
full free access: Type D personality in the general population: a systematic review of health status, mechanisms of disease, and work-related problems
"Type D personality in the general population: a systematic review of health status, mechanisms of disease, and work-related problems."
Jan 23, 2009: Authors' Reply: Dose-dense paclitaxel for advanced ovarian cancer – Authors' reply : The Lancet
Authors' explanation to Commentaries 1 & 2
Jan 23, 2009: Commentary (1 of 2): Dose-dense paclitaxel for advanced ovarian cancer : The Lancet
Note: may require registration (free):
updated 2010 - MSH2 (one of the Lynch Syndrome genes)
- "People with mutations in the MSH2
gene have an increased risk of developing several other types of cancer (colorectal),
including cancers of the endometrium (lining of the uterus), ovary,
stomach, small intestine, liver, gallbladder duct, upper urinary tract,
brain, and skin.
Some mutations in the MSH2 gene increase the likelihood of several uncommon skin tumors occurring in addition to colorectal cancer, a combination called Muir-Torre syndrome. These rare skin tumors include sebaceous adenomas and carcinomas, which occur in skin glands (sebaceous glands) that produce an oily substance called sebum. Multiple, rapidly growing skin tumors called keratoacanthomas may also occur, usually on sun-exposed areas.
media item: Father's long crusade for answers
Note: "In 2006, a respected cancer research charity started losing donors when it was mistaken for the CCRG following the W5 program."
Understanding the problem of inadequately staging of early ovarian cancer (subanalysis of ACTION trial)
CONCLUSIONS: Even in a randomised trial in which comprehensive surgical staging was strongly advised in the study protocol the majority of patients (66%) were incompletely staged. Factors relating to a lack of surgical skills attributed most to the number of incompletely staged patients, but insufficient knowledge of the tumour behaviour and routes of spread of ovarian cancer also contributed substantially to this problem. Multicentre trials recruiting patients from many institutes with small volume contribution to the study, run the risk of inadequate adherence to the study protocol.
Venous Thromboembolism Risk and Prophylaxis in the Acute Care Hospital Setting (ENDORSE Survey): Findings in Surgical Patients
Note: study of data from 2004
"Use of prophylaxis varied according to major surgery type from 86.0% for orthopedic surgery to 53.8% in urologic/gynecologic...." "Conclusions: The majority of surgical patients are at high-risk for VTE. Despite long-standing recognition of the high-risk for VTE in surgical patients, thromboprophylaxis remains underutilized."
March 1, 2010 abstract: Conundrums in screening for cancer
Mini Review
Conundrums in screening for cancer
|
| Anthony
B. Miller * |
| Dalla
Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, ON, Canada |
| email:
Anthony B. Miller (ab.miller@sympatico.ca) |
This article is based upon the Joint International Journal of Cancer and Meyenburg-Stiftung Lectureship, delivered at Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, February 18, 2009.
| Keywords |
| screening
for cancer • breast cancer • cervix cancer • prostate cancer |
| Abstract |
| Screening for cancer has to be
carefully organized for maximum effectiveness, and introduced in full
understanding of the natural history of the disease. There are major
potential harms as well as benefits from screening. The current state of
art for breast, cervix and prostate cancer screening is reviewed, only
for breast and cervix are policies of screening in the population
justified. |
Friday, January 22, 2010
Neoadjuvant Bevacizumab May Increase Serious Surgical Complications - OncologySTAT
Note: free access (sign up):
Neoadjuvant_Bevacizumab_May Increase Serious Surgical Complications
media article: Neoadjuvant Bevacizumab May Increase Serious Surgical Complications
"Most complications started in the immediate postoperative period, stuttered along, then worsened weeks later when bevacizumab was restarted, according to Dr. Golshan." "This observation caused one audience member to quip, “Perhaps these wounds, even though they may appear to be healed, should receive more respect and less bevacizumab.”"
Ten-year follow-up of a phase 2 study of dose-intense paclitaxel with cisplatin and cyclophosphamide as initial therapy for poor-prognosis, advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer
"METHODS:: Patients with stage III/IV EOC received cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m(2), followed by a 24-hour infusion of paclitaxel 250 mg/m(2) and cisplatin 75 mg/m(2) on Day 2. Filgrastim began on Day 3 at 10 mug/kg daily for 9 days. Patients received 6 cycles of all drugs." CONCLUSIONS:: The studied regimen yielded a high response rate and encouraging overall survival."
Vermillion Emerges From Bankruptcy -- FREMONT, Calif., Jan. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
"This is a great day for all of our stakeholders as well as women who will benefit from OVA1,' said Gail Page, executive chair of Vermillion. 'We are in a position to resume development of our other programs in ovarian cancer and peripheral arterial disease,' she added."
full free access: Progress in Cancer Care: A Rational Call To Do Better - CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians
Editorial by incoming American Cancer Society President - Dr Alan G. Thorson
Study Finds Omission of Axillary Lymph Node Dissection Safe for Patients with Sentinel Node Micrometastases (early stage breast cancer)
full free access: link: http://caonline.amcancersoc.org/cgi/reprint/60/1/2.pdf
BRCA1 185delAG mutant protein, BRAt, up-regulates Maspin in ovarian epithelial cells
"Consequently, understanding early genotypic and phenotypic changes in the context of high risk disease may provide a better understanding of the mechanism of mutation-associated ovarian cancer and provide new targets for therapeutic intervention."
Maintenance immunotherapy in recurrent ovarian cancer: Long term follow-up of a phase II study
"Therapy consisted of low-dose subcutaneous IL-2 and oral RA, administered on intermittent schedules for up to 5 years."
Trial design for evaluation of novel targeted therapies
"Conclusions:Alternatives to traditional phase II trial design including alternative end points, randomized designs, biomarkers, and imaging tools should allow ineffective agents to be discarded and promising agents to undergo further investigation."
Phase II study of gefitinib in combination with paclitaxel (P) and carboplatin (C) as second-line therapy for ovarian, tubal or peritoneal adenocarcinoma
"Conclusion: Gefitinib, administered in combination with paclitaxel and carboplatin, provides a good clinical response but associated with an increased risk of hematologic disorders."
Nurses oppose the Ontario government's physician assistant role citing inadequate education, concerns over patient safety and unnecessary cost
Note: the RNAO also made the same statement regarding pharmacists (2009)
Toronto, January 22, 2010
"Members of the public will not be well served if the provincial government pursues a plan to allow physician assistants (PAs) to work in hospitals, family health teams, community health centres, and family physician offices. The board of directors of the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) has unanimously endorsed a position statement, which raises serious questions about the level of education and regulatory oversight physician assistants have and how these could jeopardize patients..."
abstract: Association of Skeletal Muscle Wasting With Treatment With Sorafenib
Note: this study is not specific to ovarian cancer but may be of interest for those deciding on Sorafenib:
Risk factors for reproductive and breast cancers among older lesbians.
Note: the term 'older' in the study was >40 yrs
Cochrane Collaboration review: Antigen-specific active immunotherapy for ovarian cancer
"AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that despite promising immunological responses no clinically effective antigen-specific active immunotherapy is yet available for ovarian cancer. Furthermore, the adoption of guidelines to ensure uniformity in trial conduct, response definitions and trial reporting is recommended to improve quality and comparability of immunotherapy trials."
Cochrane Collaboration Review: Management of drainage for malignant ascites in gynecologic cancer
"AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Since no relevant studies were identified, we are unable to make recommendations regarding the management of drains for malignant ascites in women with gynaecological cancer. Large, multi-centre RCTs are required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the management of ascitic drains when in situ and their impact on QOL."
Analysis of Marshall Edwards, Inc.'s OVATURE Trial to Proceed Following Database Lock
"The OVATURE trial is a major multi-center international Phase III clinical trial of orally-administered investigational drug phenoxodiol in combination with carboplatin in women with advanced ovarian cancer resistant or refractory to platinum-based drugs, to determine its safety and effectiveness when used in combination with carboplatin.......The Company expects the final analysis will be performed strictly according to the protocol and now is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2010"
Search of: Open Studies | Interventional Studies | ovarian cancer | Adult | received from 01/01/2010 to 01/22/2010
Results = 3 (new interventional studies since Jan 1/10)
The cost-effectiveness of genetic testing strategies for Lynch Syndrome among newly diagnosed patients with colorectal cancer
MRI, CT, and PET/CT for Ovarian Cancer Detection and Adnexal Lesion Characterization
"CONCLUSION. The goal of imaging in ovarian cancer detection is to expeditiously distinguish benign adnexal lesions from those requiring further pathologic evaluation for malignancy. For lesions indeterminate on ultrasound, MRI increases the specificity of imaging evaluation, thus decreasing benign resections. CT is useful in diagnosis and treatment planning of advanced cancer. Although 18F-FDG-avid ovarian lesions in postmenopausal women are considered suspicious for malignancy, PET/CT is not recommended for primary cancer detection because of high false-positive rates."
MRI of Endometriotic Cysts in Association With Ovarian Carcinoma
Risk Assessment and Genetic Testing for Ovarian Cancer
abstract: Current Update on Borderline Ovarian Neoplasms
CONCLUSION. Borderline tumors are considered to be precursors of low-grade ovarian cancers. Accurate diagnosis and staging facilitate optimal patient management particularly in patients desiring to preserve fertility.
MRI in the planning of initial lumpectomy for invasive breast carcinoma: effect on ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence after breast conserving therapy
CONCLUSION: MRI evaluation of invasive carcinoma in the planning of initial lumpectomies was not associated with improved local outcomes after BCS (breast conserving surgery) with RT in this cohort of patients.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
now accepting applications: Genetic Alliance
"We are now accepting applications for the Advocates Partnership Program at the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting March 24-28 in Albuquerque, New Mexico."
ACOR - Association of Online Cancer Resources - Home Page
ACOR.org delivered 1,819,859 individual emails across the globe last week.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Neuropathic Pain: Case Series : The Clinical Journal of Pain
abstract/study of 5 patients
Jan 2009 full free access - Development of PARP inhibitors in oncology; Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs + Expert Opinion
Note: highly technical but worth reviewing (BRCAness, sporadic, specific therapies (combination/single agent/+radiotherapy), those in clinical studies (Table 1),
differing cancers etc
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
now acceptng applications - Director's Consumer Liaison Group (U.S.)
The DCLG indentifies and responds to issues and challenges facing the Institute at the request of the Director. The DCLG provides relevant, non-scientific skills and perspectives in order to improve research outcomes by identifying new approaches, promoting innovation, recognizing unforeseen risks or barriers, and identifying unintended consequences that could result from NCI decisions.
full free access: Identifying the barriers to conducting outcomes research in integrative health care clinic settings
Conclusions
"..... as IHC clinics are often complex systems, a whole systems approach to research should be used taking into account the multidimensional and complex nature of such treatment systems so that the results are useful and reflect real life."
Dec 2009 article: Influenza Vaccination in Immune Compromised Persons: Practical Advice for Oncologists - OncologySTAT
Note: if you are unable to view the full article then you need to register (it's free)
abstract: Combining Targeted Therapies: Practical Issues to Consider at the Bench and Bedside -- The Oncologist
"Recent and continuing developments in high-throughput and multiplexed assay platforms as well as in disciplines such as bioinformatics and biostatistics will surely shape the future of clinical trials. Application of novel techniques in a comprehensive approach, revealing the interrelations among targets and the mechanisms of action underlying cancer (systems biology), may lead to comprehensive diagnostic tools (systems pathology) and specific combinations of drugs (cocktails of monoclonal antibodies, RNA therapeutics, or others) in what has been called the actualization of personalized medicine. We know that momentum in the era of targeted therapy will continue to accelerate, bringing new hope to our patients
with cancer and their families"
Abstract/free full access: High penetrances of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations confirmed in a prospective series
define: deleterious = harmful
Note: genetic modifying factors of penetrance = factors which result in lower or high risks of cancer
The quality of dying and death: a systematic review of measures-- Palliative Medicine
These are important issues for us as patients/caregivers:
"Less than half were based on an explicit definition of quality of dying and death and even fewer relied on a conceptual model that incorporated multidimensionality and subjective determination.The specified duration of the dying and death phase ranged from the last months to hours of life."
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Pharma Pipeline News: Preliminary results from Nektar Therapeutics' NKTR-102 Phase 2 study in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer
Note: conference reporting news item
Cooking with anti cancer herbs and spices better than some medicines
Submitted by Kathleen Blanchard RN- Jan 19th, 2010
Quick Poll - question
Note: The quick poll is anonymous, so for the person who answered 'other' please email me - you can do this direct from the blog, if you wish. Thanks! Sandi
Jan 19, 2009: I’m a Cancer Patient. Should I Ask About PARP Inhibitors? - Health Advice Deborah K. Armstrong
Health Advice
Q. I’m a Cancer Patient. Should I Ask About PARP Inhibitors?
By Deborah K. Armstrong, M.D.
submit your application between March 15-22nd, 2010 - ASCO Patient Advocate Scholarship Program
pdf file - application/criteria
abstract: Safety and efficacy results of the advanced renal cell carcinoma Sorafenib expanded access program in North America
Note: while this is not specific to ovarian cancer knowing the side effects which patients experienced may be helpful
abstract: Clinicopathological features of 67 cases of endometriosis-associated epithelial ovarian carcinoma (China)
"CONCLUSION: Patients of endometriosis-associated epithelial ovarian carcinoma, especially patients with tumors arising from endometriosis, were found to be younger, having a significant lower stage and a better survival, and were mostly diagnosed with the subtype of clear-cell."
abstract: Understanding the support needs of patients accessing test results online. PHRs offer great promise, but support issues must be addressed to
Understanding the support needs of patients accessing test results online. PHRs offer great promise, but support issues must be addressed to ensure appropriate access.
abstract: Phase II biomarker trial of a multimarker diagnostic for ovarian cancer-Australia
CA-125; C-reactive protein (CRP); serum amyloid A (SAA); interleukin 6 (IL-6); and interleukin 8 (IL-8)
"CONCLUSIONS: The use of a panel of plasma biomarkers for the identification of women with ovarian cancer delivers a significant increase in diagnostic performance when compared to the performance of CA-125 alone."
Consistency of self-reported first-degree family history of cancer in a population-based study - Brazil
"The prevalence of cancer history in an FDR (first degree relative) was similar to previous reports in other populations. Consistency and reliability of the self-reported information was high, regardless of educational level."
full free access: Targeting the EGF Receptor for Ovarian Cancer Therapy
Note: numerous different treatments are discussed
News: Docs Feel Stress When Patients Can't Make Own Decisions - survey of Chicago physicians
"In only 10% of cases was a living will involved -- and in fully 35% of cases, the physician did not know if there was a living will or not."
2010 full free access: The prosurvival activity of ascites against TRAIL is associated with a shorter disease-free interval in patients with ovarian c
( highly technical )The prosurvival activity of ascites against TRAIL is associated with a shorter disease-free interval in patients with ovarian cancer
Monday, January 18, 2010
The C.A.M. Report » Blog
Note: This is a huge site with a vast amount of information including institutional based research etc.
National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine
searchable database: eg. green tea oil, fish oil....
abstract (in research) HMGA2: a potential biomarker complement to P53 for detection of early-stage high-grade papillary serous carcinoma in FT
"Our findings of immunoreactivity for HMGA2 may lead to a novel, useful biomarker to complement p53 in the detection of early-stage serous carcinoma."
media item: In Research: OMRF identifies new method that may improve treatment of ovarian cancers
Who is OMRF?
"Founded in 1946, OMRF is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected nonprofit biomedical research institutes. Located in Oklahoma City, OMRF fosters a worldwide reputation for excellence by following an innovative cross-disciplinary approach to medical research."
Breaking down the breakthrough claims - Blog
Note: this one was all over the news this past week: partial excerpt: "A new drug called dabigatran prevents more strokes with less bleeding than warfarin." Dr. Atlas says: "Dabigatran may be a game changer, but there is one thing the story didn't mention. The group that got Dabigatran had more heart attacks than those who got coumadin. Oops! This could be the real game changer from the FDA's perspective. Note it's still under review there."
abstract: The treatment of menopausal symptoms by traditional East Asian medicines: Review and perspectives
Note: abstract provides very limited information
AMA news: Participatory medicine: A high-tech alliance with patients
"At its most basic level, participatory medicine means shared decision-making and deep patient engagement. Because of the rise in technology use -- as well as an increase in out-of-pocket health care expenses -- this has gone well beyond the traditional tell-me-where-it-hurts conversation between patient and doctor in the exam room....Physicians "are afraid this is something that will cost them time and money, and it will create arguments with patients," Dr. Greene said."
abstract: Body mass index as a prognostic factor in epithelial ovarian cancer and correlation with clinico-pathological factors (1994–2003)
"The prognostic impact of BMI on survival was only noted for underweight patients with serous tumors."
Sunday, January 17, 2010
abstract: Pharmacogenomics of taxane/platinum therapy in ovarian cancer
epigentics: The study of heritable changes in gene function that occur without a change in the DNA sequence
"CONCLUSIONS: Other mechanisms of variability, including epigenetic control of gene expression and copy number variation, may play important roles. In addition, nongenetic influences such as concurrent medications, and physiological and environmental factors could also affect individual responses to taxane and platinum therapy."
August 2009: Safety of (Avastin) Bevacizumab in Advanced Ovarian and Müllerian Cancers: A Review: Bevacizumab and Ovarian Cancer
"To date, several investigators (Table 1) have explored bevacizumab as a single agent or in combination with metronomic chemotherapy in the management of advanced ovarian cancer. All studies to date with bevacizumab as a single agent or in combination with chemotherapy have shown promising responses. The concern is centered on whether the benefit of this therapeutic agent outweighs its potential toxicity."
Clinical Trial: How Our Immune System Can Help Fight Cancer
Note: not yet recruiting for patients - An interesting study bringing together genetics and immune system. Location: New York, U.S.A.
Clinical Trials Search of: Open Studies ovarian cancer Adult- new studies received from 12/01/2009 to 01/17/2010
13 new studies shown (non specific)
Dr Dizon's blog: The Women's Cancer Blog
"Dr. Dizon is a medical oncologist specializing in women's cancers. He takes care of both breast and gynecologic cancers and has interests in new treatments, survivorship, and sexuality, and is Director of Medical Oncology at the Program in Women's Oncology at Women and Infants hospital of Rhode Island. He is also an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Internal Medicine at Alpert Medical School of Brown University."
Search of: Open Studies "ovarian cancer"
as at: January 17th, 2010 6:26 pm search results = 447 studies (general non specific search) - all types of studies, all phases
free full access: JAMA -- Funding of US Biomedical Research, 2003-2008, January 13, 2010, Dorsey et al. 303 (2): 137
Note: charts for quick overviews
full free access April 2009: Repertoire of microRNAs in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
"...Small RNA cDNA libraries were constructed from RNA sample pools....and epithelial ovarian cancer specimens of serous, clear cell and endometrioid histologies....This report expands the body of miRNAs known to be expressed in epithelial ovarian cancer and provides a useful resource for future studies of the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis and early detection of ovarian cancer."
Cancer Blood Tests
"...The team made the discovery partly by accident. They were studying short pieces of RNA called micro RNAs in human tissue samples. These tiny pieces of RNA, discovered only a few years ago, play a big role in regulating genes, and are now known to be altered in cancer..... In a large majority of the cases, just by measuring the amount of micro RNA in the blood, we could tell who had cancer and who didn’t,” Tewari says."
PBS: Genetic Genealogy on Faces of America - airing February-March 2010
Eva Longoria, Meryl Streep, Mario Batali, Stephen Colbert, Malcolm Gladwell, Yo-Yo Ma, Mike Nichols, Kristi Yamaguchi, Elizabeth Alexander, Queen Noor and Louise Erdrich have all submitted DNA tests for a new PBS television series FACES OF AMERICA.
Faces of America with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. airs on Wednesdays, February 10 – March 3, 2010 from 8-9 p.m. ET on PBS.
abstract: An effect from anticipation also in hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer families without identified mutations.(Lynch Syndrome)
Note: this would apply to the many with no known mutations in the many genetic syndromes (eg. BRCA, Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome...)
"This observation suggests that anticipation may apply also to families without identified mutations and serves as a reminder to initiate surveillance programmes at young age also in HNPCC families with undefined genetic causes."
Saturday, January 16, 2010
A Link between mir-100 and FRAP1/mTOR in Clear Cell Ovarian Cancer --joint study Japan/U.S.
Note: This abstract is highly technical, but the significance is that there is a focus on clear cell ovarian cancer.
"...Our experiments have revealed strong candidate miRNAs and their target genes that may contribute to the pathogenesis of clear cell ovarian cancer..."
Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: Referral source for genetic assessment and communication regarding assessment with nongenetic clinicians in the
Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: Referral source for genetic assessment and communication regarding assessment with nongenetic clinicians in the community setting:
2009 Yi and St Louis Ovarian Cancer at OneTrueMedia.com
see the Montage from last year's (2009) ovarian cancer ACOR & friends August weekend
WWOX tumour suppressor gene polymorphisms and ovarian cancer pathology and prognosis.
"One-third of ovarian tumours show loss of WWOX expression, and this loss significantly associates with clear cell and mucinous histology, advanced stage, low progesterone receptor expression and poor survival, suggesting that WWOX status affects ovarian cancer progression and prognosis."
Friday, January 15, 2010
FDA (U.S.)Basics - new website
The tool answers questions such as (and more):
How and where do I find out if a drug is approved for use?
Why are there still food recalls?
How do I report a pet food compliant?
You can also submit your own questions, provide feedback, and view interviews with FDA staff.
Bazedoxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator: effects on the endometrium, ovaries, and breast from a randomized controlled trial in osteoporo
Bazedoxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator: effects on the endometrium, ovaries, and breast from a randomized controlled trial in osteoporotic postmenopausal women
Urinary angiostatin levels are elevated in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.
Note: further research required
Immunohistochemical analysis of hMLH1 and hMSH2 proteins in serous ovarian tumours.
Note: Immunohistochemical = tumour sample; hMLH1 and hMSH2 (2 of) Lynch Syndrome genes
"Our results suggest that hMLH1 and hMSH2 proteins may be involved in ovarian carcinogenesis."
AACR upcoming conference: Cancer Epigenetics
"The study of epigenetic mechanisms in cancer, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, nucleosome positioning and non-coding RNA expression, has revealed a plethora of events that contribute to the neoplastic phenotype through stable changes in the expression of genes critical to transformation pathways...Therefore, improved understanding of normal epigenetic programs is necessary to better understand malignancy-specific epigenetic alterations.....numerous other clinical applications of the field being explored in areas such as cancer screening and early detection, prevention, classification for epidemiology and prognostic purposes, and predicting outcomes after standard therapy."
Exons: Researchers Sequence 'Exomes' Of New Strategy For Finding Disease Genes
"....demonstrated the feasibility and value of a new strategy for identifying relatively rare genetic variants that may cause or contribute to disease....The new strategy involves isolating and sequencing all exons which are the parts of the human genome that contain the information needed to produce proteins, the building blocks of the body. The complete set of exons – referred to as the "exome" – makes up only one percent of the human genome. By selecting only the exome to sequence, the important information about an individual can be obtained at a much lower cost than sequencing a person's entire genome."
2010 Who Is Responsible? The Role of Family Physicians in the Provision of Supportive Cancer Care
Note: the issues from the family physicians' perspective
Editorial: Who Should Follow Our (Cancer) Patients?
Note: Good plain english article generalizing the issues - $$/capacity/knowledge
Thursday, January 14, 2010
abstract : Laparoscopic optical coherence tomography imaging of human ovarian cancer
Note: advances in the imaging of ovarian cancer
Surgery duration linked to infectious complications, hospital stay - Anesthesiology Videos - The Doctor's Channel
not specific to ovarian cancer
full free access: Targeting Insulin and Insulin-Like Growth Factor Pathways in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Note: a highly technical paper - look at Table 2; 7.5 = clinical trials link; 8.0 = Conclusion
Contemporary Management of and Future Directions in Ovarian Cancer - Cancer Network
Note: this was posted in November, but I have brought the posting date forward to coincide with other like articles, so both can be viewed at the same time. Access to this article requires that you sign on to the website (free).
full free access: Jan 2/2010 - Targeted Therapy in Ovarian Cancer
Review Article
Targeted Therapy in Ovarian Cancer
Lyndsay J. Willmott and John P. Fruehauf
Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA 92868, USA Academic Editor: Charles F. Levenback
full free access: (2010) Germline Mutations and Polymorphisms in the Origins of Cancers in Women
Note: a good explanation in (close to) plain english on a subject that is anything but easy to understand.
Defective Mismatch Repair, Microsatellite Mutation Bias, and Variability in Clinical Cancer Phenotypes -- Shah et al. 70 (2): 431 -- Cancer Research
Abstract:
"Microsatellite instability is associated with 10% to 15% of colorectal, endometrial, OVARIAN, and gastric cancers, and has long been used as a diagnostic tool for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma–related cancers. Tumor-specific length alterations within microsatellites are generally accepted to be a consequence of strand slippage events during DNA replication, which are uncorrected due to a defective postreplication mismatch repair (MMR) system. Mutations arising within microsatellites associated with critical target genes are believed to play a causative role in the evolution of MMR-defective tumors. In this review, we summarize current evidence of mutational biases within microsatellites arising as a consequence of intrinsic DNA sequence effects as well as variation in MMR efficiency. Microsatellite mutational biases are generally not considered during clinical testing; however, we suggest that such biases may be clinically significant as a factor contributing to phenotypic variation among microsatellite instability–positive tumors."
ACS :: Possible Risks of Blood Product Transfusions
Comment: Before Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents were introduced, blood transfusions were widely used for the improvement of platelet counts etc. With recent negative research regarding Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, blood transfusions will be a choice - seek professional/oncologist opinion. This article from the ACS describes some of the concerns with blood transfusions.
NCI - main site
There are quite a few different clinical trials listed for 'chemotherapy induced neuropathy" - check the search box at the top of the website for clinical trials underway
Phase III Randomized Study of Glutathione for the Prevention of Paclitaxel/Carboplatin-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Ovarian, Fallopi
Phase III Randomized Study of Glutathione for the Prevention of Paclitaxel/Carboplatin-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and/or Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma
Biological Therapies for Cancer: Q & A - National Cancer Institute
What are interleukins?
"Like interferons, interleukins (ILs) are cytokines that occur naturally in the body and can be made in the laboratory. Many interleukins have been identified; interleukin-2 (IL–2 or aldesleukin) has been the most widely studied in cancer treatment. IL–2 stimulates the growth and activity of many immune cells, such as lymphocytes, that can destroy cancer cells. The FDA has approved IL–2 for the treatment of metastatic kidney cancer and metastatic melanoma.
Researchers continue to study the benefits of interleukins to treat a number of other cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and brain, colorectal, ovarian, breast, and prostate cancers."
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
CA-125 Response Patterns in Patients With Recurrent Ovarian Cancer Treated With Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin (PLD)
Conclusions: "Our ROC analysis did not demonstrate any reliable CA-125 cutoff on response. Discontinuation of the therapy before cycle 3 may exclude some patients who will benefit from PLD."
Five emotions you never knew you had - life - 13 January 2010 - New Scientist
"CAN you name the six basic emotions? Take a straw poll of your friends and we guarantee that you will find no consensus. Yet psychologists are unequivocal: joy, sadness, anger, fear, surprise and disgust...."
media item: new anti-cancer drug called "COTI-2" TD2 and Critical Outcome Technologies Inc. Develop Novel Anti-Cancer Drug
"....small molecule compound was discovered and developed by COTI of London, Ontario, Canada. This working relationship resulted through the expanded relationship between Canadian companies and the Phoenix-based Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen). TD2, TGen's Scottsdale-based drug-development subsidiary, will work with COTI to complete the Investigational New Drug (IND) enabling research necessary to gain U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of clinical trials,perhaps by the end of 2010, and eventually move the drug to market where it can benefit patients.....Researchers hope to demonstrate that this oral pill will be especially beneficial for patients with small- cell lung cancer (SCLC), endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer, but may also help treat those with colorectal and pancreatic cancers."
Surgical Technician Schools » 10 Famous Doctors who Made Medicine What it is Today + more
Beyond the history, at the bottom of the page, there are a number of links which you may find interesting such as:
* 100 Best Blogs for Living Healthy on a Budget
* The Surgery is Over… Now What? 4 Tips for A Successful Rehab
* Top 100 Doctor Bloggers
* 100+ Ways to Spring Clean Your Mind and Body
* The Top 50 Surgeon Bloggers
* What Does a Surgical Technician Do?
full free access: Is no news good news? Inconclusive genetic test results in BRCA1 and BRCA2 from patients and professionals' perspectives
Small study but included view of patients and physician views.
Use of Four Biomarkers to Evaluate the Risk of Breast Cancer Subtypes in the Women's Contraceptive and Reproductive Experiences Study
"Our findings offer evidence of differences in the hormone-related risk factors between triple-negative cancers and other ER/PR/HER2-defined subtypes of breast cancer."
Vandetanib, Designed to Inhibit VEGFR2 and EGFR Signaling, Had No Clinical Activity as Monotherapy for Recurrent Ovarian Cancer and No Detectable Modulation of VEGFR2
"Twelve patients entered the study, and accrual was terminated in the first stage because of lack of response or disease stabilization beyond 6 months."
abstract - Impact of bowel obstruction at the time of initial presentation in women with ovarian cancer.
plus read commentary from gyn/onc
NCI Cancer Bulletin: PARP Inhibitor and Metronomic Chemotherapy for Refractory Cancer - Phase I Study of ABT-888 and Metronomic Cyclophosphamide ....
Name of the Trial:
Phase I Study of ABT-888 and Metronomic Cyclophosphamide in Patients with Refractory Solid Tumors or Lymphoma (NCI-09-C-0048).
For More Information (read the article to see direct links to the information):
See the lists of eligibility criteria and trial contact information or call the NCI Clinical Trials Referral Office at 1-888-NCI-1937. The call is toll free and confidential.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
full free access : Proteomic effects of hormone therapies - new research in Genome Medicine
"New research by Samir Hanash, Ross Prentice and colleagues, recently published in Genome Medicine, suggests that the different proteomic effects of estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin treatments may explain the distinctive clinical effects of each therapy."
UC Academic Health News : Findings: UC Gynecologic Cancer Team Expands Services to Northern Kentuck-Dayton
"His goal is to recruit three additional double board-certified gynecologic oncologists who are qualified to perform both cancer care as well as advanced pelvic surgery. This team will cover a wide range east and west of the I-75 stretch between Northern Kentucky and Dayton."
abstract: Identification of an ovarian clear cell carcinoma gene signature that reflects inherent disease biology and the carcinogenic processes
definitions we need to know when reading this abstract:
1) microenvironment: a specific set of physical, biological, and chemical factors immediately surrounding the organism;
2) epigenetic: - something that affects a cell, organ or individual without directly affecting its DNA.
Predicting the Outcome of Cytoreductive Surgery for Advanced Ovarian Cancer
"Conclusions: The rates of optimal cytoreduction vary among surgeons. A universally applicable clinical model that can predict which patients will undergo optimal cytoreduction remains elusive. More research is needed to devise a set of uniform criteria that can be used to predict ovarian cancer resectability among different patient populations."
Cancer Survivorship Research Conference 2010: Recovery and Beyond
June 17-19, 2010
Marriott Wardman Park Hotel
Washington, DC
The Biennial Cancer Survivorship Research Conference, initiated in 2002 by the National Cancer Institute’s Office of Cancer Survivorship and the American Cancer Society’s Behavioral Research Center, brings together investigators, clinicians, and survivors to share and learn about the most up-to-date cancer survivorship research. In 2010, the 5th biennial conference is co-sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, the American Cancer Society, LIVESTRONG, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
press release: Nektar Announces Positive Topline Results for NKTR-102 From First Stage of Phase 2 Study in Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer
"The first stage of the NKTR-102 Phase 2 study showed an overall GCIG response rate of 32% (6/19) in the once every 14 days (q14 day) dose schedule and 35% (7/20) for the once every 21 days (q21 day) dose schedule.
Confirmed objective response rates using RECIST were 21% (4/19) and 22% (4/18) for the q14 day and q21 day dose schedules, respectively.
CA-125 response rates were 31% (5/16) and 38% (6/16), for each dose schedule, respectively.
The Phase 2 study has now completed enrollment with a total of 71 patients. Approximately one-third of the patients in the study remain on NKTR-102 treatment, including a number of patients in the first stage of the study."
abstract: Generational risks for cancers not related to tobacco, screening, or treatment in the United States
"CONCLUSIONS:
Despite declining overall cancer death rates, adults are experiencing increased incidence of cancers that are not associated with tobacco or screening relative to their parents. Future research should examine whether similar patterns are exhibited in other modern nations and should identify population-wide avoidable risks that could account for unexplained increases in these residual cancers."
abstract: Physician factors associated with discussions about end-of-life care
this link is the actual research article and from which the media item was based (abstract/only-pay-per-view)
Second Opinion - Doctors Often Delay Conversations About Death With Terminal Patients - NYTimes.com
this is a good article for everyone, IMHO
Obesity and cancer: Effects on risk, screening and mortality | HemOncToday
My response, assuming it gets posted:
"As a cancer (ovarian) survivour, the value of the research and 'weight' concerns are ever present. However, at this very moment weight issues in cancer are primarily a health issue with many unknowns as it relates to specific implications in specific cancers. I see many websites/programs who arbitrarily have included 'weight' issues as a risk factor. Until the exact mechanisms and results are known, I urge great caution as this adds to significant burdens on patients who at this very moment are fighting to survive. It is not ethically or morally appropriate to add to these burdens for those dying of cancer."
Sandi Pniauskas
FDA calls for more research into erythropoiesis-stimulating agents | HemOncToday
"PERSPECTIVE
It should be emphasized that the FDA release focuses solely on patients with chronic renal disease, not cancer. It's a different population, so nothing in this release applies to the anemia of chemotherapy or patients with myelodysplastic syndrome. Right now, the ASCO/ASH ESA guideline committee is looking at present data to see if they need to make any modifications in the guidelines for the use of ESAs. The NCCN modified its guideline about a year ago and agree with the FDA recommendations that ESAs shouldn't be used in a standard fashion in patients being treated for curative intent. That's become standard of care, and for patients on chemotherapy, nothing has changed in the past year.
- Samuel Silver, MD, PhD
HemOnc Today Editorial Board member"
Special Report: NCI Cancer Bulletin - Ovarian Cancer
Special Report: NCI Cancer Bulletin - Ovarian Cancer
Depression assessment and classification in palliative cancer patients: a systematic literature review
"The full range of the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria was seldom assessed,i.e. less than one-third of the assessments in the review tookinto account the duration of symptoms and 18% assessed consequences and impact upon patient functioning. A diversity of assessment methods had been used. Few studies classified depression byreferring to a diagnostic system or by using cut-off scores.Evidently, there is a need for a consensus on how to assessand conceptualize depression and related conditions in palliative care."
Monday, January 11, 2010
media item: Imaging studies help detect underlying cancers in patients with neurologic symptoms
Paraneoplastic neurologic disorders occur in some people with cancer—including lung, breast or ovarian cancer
Letter of Response: Disregarding clinical trial-based patient-reported outcomes is unwarranted: Five advances to substantiate the scientific stringency of quality-of-life measurement
Dear Dr Sprangers;
I want to express my appreciation for your paper detailing these Patient and research issues which have been outstanding and often unheeded far too long. Unfortunately, I must add, even as we speak. These issues have been of great concern to our cancer communities over much time. Without the inclusion of Patients in all that affects the research, at and as the bottom line issue, the value and efforts are, yes, meaningless. Patient QOL measurements, need to be addressed, so that the real life issues are not censured through statistical analyses and re-interpretation.
Without an emphasis encompassing integrity and ethics, if not a moral obligation, QOL research and all research, is futile. It is one of our largest failings. I have never found a way to quite understand how we have gotten to this place, not only in research but often times in practice.
I do see glimmers of hope, but over time these 'glimmers' have been replaced with consistently witnessing, as a patient/survivour, much suffering combined with a profess lack of urgency. While understanding of course that the specific issue of Patient QOL does not operate in a silo, it is because we are.
Acknowledging special exceptions in clinical practice/s, when someone mentions: "I know how you feel" my response is quite simply this: "No, actually, you do not."
Thank you once again, I greatly appreciate your efforts.
Sandi Pniauskas
Canada
http://ovariancancerandus.blogspot.com
abstract:
http://tinyurl.com/ykmf39w
or:
http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/02841860903440288?prevSearch=authorsfield%253A%2528Sprangers%252C%2BMirjam%2BA.%2BG.%2529&searchHistoryKey=
Reporting on Cancer Research
While this site's intended target audience is journalists/media, there is some good information here for everyone. Some of it though is still pretty technical.
Disregarding clinical trial-based patient-reported outcomes is unwarranted: Five advances to substantiate the scientific stringency of quality-of-life
"Background. The clinical impact of trial-based quality of life (QL) outcomes is frequently underestimated due, in part, to prejudice and lack of knowledge by the medical community ....It is a waste of effort and money and also unethical when collected trial-based QL data are not used to their full power. QL and other patient-reported outcomes deserve to be included in more trials, with full disclosure of all results, and standardized interpretation."
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Comparison of extended colectomy and limited resection in patients with Lynch syndrome.
abstract for our Lynch Syndrome/ovarian members or also those who family members may have been diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer
2009 University of Health Network Toronto Patient Relations report - Office of the (hospital) Ombudsman
This report is of questionable value to patients as the Office of the Ombudsman is not independent but within the institution.
"The Patient Relations Department (Office of the Hospital Ombudsman)"
(repost): Combination therapy: intermittent sorafenib with bevacizumab yields activity and decreased toxicity : BMJ
abstract only - BMJ does not have open access (pay per view/subscription req'd)
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Cancer genetic predisposition: information needs of patients irrespective of risk level.
"Participants were stratified by risk level and included those concerned about an inherited predisposition to breast, ovarian or colorectal cancer."
"Findings indicated that irrespective of a person's actual or perceived level of risk, cancer worry, demographic background or personal motivation; priorities in the type of information required were similar. Greatest emphasis focused on information provision about how risk was assessed. Least important was acquiring an understanding about genes and inheritance patterns. Most participants reported difficulties accessing or finding information."
Improving the Quality of Colorectal Cancer Screening: Assessment of Familial Risk.
"Many patients reporting a known familial cancer syndrome or a very strong family history did not have that history indicated on the endoscopist's procedure form, and recommended follow-up intervals were beyond guideline recommendations for 60.4% of the very high-risk group."
(Texas) Cedar Park woman, fearing high cancer risk, chooses hysterectomy, double mastectomy
plus commentaries from oncologists
Avemar - corporate website
This page shows past research with the pdf files being fully accessible. I haven't looked at the research/quality, so have no comment on this one - anyone?
Current Issue : Menopause
Note: this journal requires a subscription to access the full text of the articles. You can, however, access the abstracts.
Occult fallopian tube carcinoma detected in routine pelvic washing specimens submitted for staging: another justification for pelvic washing cytology?
Diagn Cytopathol. 2009 Dec;
Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA. jjorns@umich.edu
"Peritoneal washing cytology is important in the staging, prognosis, and treatment schema for women diagnosed with gynecologic malignancies. Additionally, peritoneal washings are often performed before the specific diagnosis or even the distinction between benign or malignant lesion is known. Occasionally, the cytology and surgical pathology specimens, although obtained during the same procedure, will show unexpected and/or discordant findings. Perhaps, the greatest dilemma occurs when atypical cells suggestive of malignancy are identified in peritoneal washing specimens when a corresponding benign or discordantly low grade malignant diagnosis is made in the surgical pathology specimen. We present two such cases in which further investigation proved extremely valuable, not only leading to resolution of initially discrepant cytologic and surgical pathology findings but also in the process leading to second diagnoses of early fallopian tube carcinoma. Increasing evidence appears to be pointing to the fallopian tube as the site of origin of many serous carcinomas previously thought to be of primary pelvic or ovarian origin. These cases further confirm the utility of peritoneal washing cytology as a diagnostic modality when routine gross examination and sampling of the surgical specimens alone would have failed to provide the complete diagnosis."
2010 surgical oncology: Lymph node involvement in ovarian serous tumors of low malignant potential: a clinicopathologic study of thirty-six cases.
"Experience with lymph node involvement (LNI) in ovarian serous tumors of low malignant potential (OSLMP) is limited, which has led to an uncertainty about the clinical significance of this phenomenon....."
Optimal management of recurrent ovarian cancer. [Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2009] - PubMed result
Note: several years ago Cary Vera Garcia (deceased) published an article about ovarian cancer as a chronic disease. It was an excellent article and she felt using the term chronic as it may apply to ovarian cancer 'Devalued a Survivor's Challenge'. Dr Markman wrote a response concerning the clinical use of the word 'chronic' as it may apply to ovarian cancer. So, 'very serious chronic' is a new term which is interesting.
Sandi
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Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2009 Dec;19 Suppl 2:S40-3.
Optimal management of recurrent ovarian cancer.
Markman M.
Department of Gynecologic Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA. mmarkman@mdanderson.org
The development of an optimal management approach in recurrent ovarian cancer requires careful consideration of a number of important factors including (a) response to and severity/persistence of toxicity associated with prior therapy, (b) existence of relevant trial data (particularly phase 3 studies), (c) patient interest in participating in clinical trials, (d) cost of (and ability to pay for) particular anti-neoplastic drug regimens, and (e) patient choice. It is likely that the increasing availability of biologically active novel agents (and combination programs) in this clinical setting will add to the difficulty of defining optimal therapy in recurrent/resistant ovarian cancer, which, in many individuals, can be reasonably considered a very serious chronic disease process.
abstract: Symptom control pts with recurrent OC: measuring the benefit of palliative chemotherapy in women with platinum refractory/resistan
Symptom control in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer: measuring the benefit of palliative chemotherapy in women with platinum refractory/resistant ovarian cancer.
Changing the paradigm in the treatment of platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer: from platinum doublets to nonplatinum doublets and adding antia
Changing the paradigm in the treatment of platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer: from platinum doublets to nonplatinum doublets and adding antiangiogenesis compounds.
Friday, January 08, 2010
Biological Mechanisms Linking Obesity and Cancer Risk: New Perspectives - Annual Review of Medicine, 61(1):301 - Abstract
"While public health policies aimed at curbing the underlying causes of the obesity epidemic are being implemented, there is a parallel need to better understand the biological processes linking obesity and cancer as a prerequisite to the development of new approaches to prevention and treatment."
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy in Patients on Immunomodulatory Therapies* - Annual Review of Medicine, 61(1):35 - Abstract
Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892; email: majorg@ninds.nih.gov
"Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a demyelinating disease of the white matter of the human brain caused by lytic infection of oligodendrocytes with the human polyomavirus JCV. Although the majority of PML cases occur in severely immune-suppressed individuals, with HIV-1 infection as the predominant factor, PML has been increasingly diagnosed in patients treated with biological therapies such as monoclonal antibodies that modulate immune system functions...."
Patient-Centered Medical Homes in Ontario | Health Care Reform
Some interesting observations in this article including:
"Per capita, Canada has one third fewer active physicians than the United States, 15% more primary care physicians, and half as many specialists. Consequently, the heavy responsibilities of Canadian specialists promote shared care with family physicians, and specialists rarely see patients without referral. In the United States, only 30% of visits to specialists occur through referrals,5 and patients are likely to see multiple specialists."
April 17-21, 2010 in Washington, DC. - AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010
New Concepts in Organ Site Research:
Recent Advances in Ovarian Cancer Research
Co-Chairpersons: Christopher P. Crum, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, and Shelley S. Tworoger, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
* David D. Bowtell, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Melbourne, Australia
* Elise C. Kohn, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
* Martin Widschwendter, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
* Alicja Wolk, National Institute of Environmental Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
Dear Advocates: (sponsorship) 2010 ACMG Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting
January 8th, 2009:
Dear advocates,
We are now accepting applications for the Advocates Partnership Program at the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting, March 24-28 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The Advocates Partnership Program aims to foster new connections among members of the genetics community. Highlights for participants include engaging in thought-provoking discussions about clinical genetics and informatics, and attending exclusive daily briefings with ACMG staff and professionals working in your area of interest. The ACMG preliminary meeting schedule is available at http://www.acmgmeeting.net/schedule.php
Acceptance into the Advocates Partnership Program includes waived full registration to the ACMG Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting. Furthermore, participants will be reimbursed for up to $250 for transportation, hotel accommodations, or airfare.
We welcome applications from individuals interested in the field of clinical genetics. Individuals who hold ACMG membership or those who could be a potential candidate for membership are not eligible to apply for the Advocates Partnership Program.
To apply, please download the application form from http://www.geneticalliance.org/advocates.opportunities.
Please return it to tmurza@geneticalliance.org no later than Friday, February 5, 2010.
Priority will be given to individuals who previously have not participated in the Advocates Partnership Program.
Please forward this message to your friends and colleagues.
If you have any questions, please contact Tetyana Murza at tmurza@geneticalliance.org or (202) 966-5557 ext. 205. We look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
Genetic Alliance
Thursday, January 07, 2010
press release: Theralase Technologies Research Successfully Destroys Breast Cancer cells
preclinical studies to come in 2010
full free access-focus on Lynch Syndrome Ultradeep Sequencing of a Human Ultraconserved Region Reveals Somatic and Constitutional Genomic Instability
"Genomic instability is a common trait of cancer cells and plays a pivotal role in promoting carcinogenesis in several hereditary tumours. One of the best-known examples is the Lynch syndrome, an autosomal dominant condition associated with heterozygous mutations in mismatch repair (MMR) genes. During their lifespan, individuals affected by the Lynch syndrome...... The tumourigenic process starts when mutations hit oncogenes and/or tumour suppressors, often in actively renovating tissues such as endometrium, ovary, and colon. In the latter case, the genetic condition is known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), which represents the most common form of inherited colorectal cancer.... Since more than 90% of HNPCC show MSI this has become a common diagnostic marker..."
JCO Editorial: Generalizing the Results of Cancer Clinical Trials
See also Table 1:Occult Influences of the Clinical Trial Setting on the Generalizability of Results - Differences in the Patient Population
"As clinical trials increasingly become a global enterprise, issues of generalizability will increase in importance. It will be essential to ensure that the conduct of a trial and its subsequent reporting include attention to aspects that influence generalizability, so that determinations of whether observations and conclusions reached in one geographic setting, or within one type of health care system, are applicable to the policy makers and practitioners from other settings."
JCO Editorial: Biomarkers of Antiangiogenic Therapy: How Do We Move From Candidate Biomarkers to Valid Biomarkers?
"Thus, these candidate biomarkers should continue to be actively explored in trials of antiangiogenic agents in patients, to get closer to the goal of improving and individualizing cancer therapy."
Journal of Oncology — An Open Access Journal Role of lymphadenectomy in early and advanced ovarian cancer
click on 'pdf' top right hand corner
full free access: Journal of Oncology —Role of lymphadenectomy in early and advanced ovarian cancer
full free access - click on the 'pdf' box - top right corner
There Is a New Pre-Symptomatic Screening Test for Ovarian Cancer Coming From Arrayit Corporation, and It Will Be Available Soon - OvaDx(TM)
Note: The test will soon be submitted to the FDA for approval
BJC - Abstract: Combination therapy: intermittent sorafenib with bevacizumab yields activity and decreased toxicity
Note: ovarian cancer patients were included in this phase 1 study but abstract gives limited information
DNAPrint Genomics - Ovanome
Note: As far as I can tell this test still needs approvals
OVANOME:
Ovanome is a genetic test for predicting an ovarian cancer patient’s response to first-regimen Taxol¹ and carboplatin (TC) chemotherapy. 30% of chemo-naive women do not respond to TC treatment and DNAPrint™ research shows that this problem is largely a function of genetic polymorphism.
Biotech News & Online Store - Belinostat phase II trial initiated in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer by the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) supported by
The study:
A Phase II evaluation of Belinostat and carboplatin in the treatment of recurrent or persistent platinum-resistant ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer.
UK: i LEARN u LEARN events
Our ‘i LEARN – u LEARN’ events are taking place in March 2010.
These are six interactive meetings that will be held in
* London (1 & 17 March 2010)
* Belfast (4 March 2010)
* Cardiff (9 March 2010)
* Liverpool (12 March 2010)
* Edinburgh (15 March 2010)
At these meetings, you can find out more about regulation in the health sector and take part in various activities where you can lend your voice to some ongoing debates. We will be supported at all meetings by representatives from the health professional regulatory bodies. Places at these meetings are limited, so we encourage you to register early to attend these events. You can register by emailing us at reception@chre.org.uk or by calling us on 020 7389 8030.
Pallimed: A Hospice & Palliative Medicine Blog
This most recent update has some good information and includes some Twitter comments regarding Palliative/Hospice care comments.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
HealthNewsReview.org: Study: Ginkgo biloba has no effect on Alzheimer's, dementia
Study: Ginkgo biloba has no effect on Alzheimer's, dementia
free full access: Current status of maintenance therapy for advanced ovarian cancer
Note: below the abstract click on 'pdf download article' (full free access)
"This article reviews the current status of maintenance therapy for advanced ovarian cancer, including phase III evidence and new and upcoming trials."
full free access (2008) Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism* — CHEST gynecologic cancers are included
This is a very long article, includes gynecologic cancer surgery as well as other topics regarding blood clots including for at-risk travellers:
"Cancer patients undergoing surgery have at least twice the risk of postoperative DVT and more than three times the risk of fatal PE encountered by noncancer patients who are undergoing similar procedures."
press release: Vermillion Unsecured Creditors Approve Proposed Plan of Reorganization -- FREMONT, Calif., Jan. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
About the OVA1 Test
The OVA1 Test is a qualitative serum test that combines the results of five immunoassays into a single numerical score. It is indicated for women who meet the following criteria: over age 18, ovarian adnexal mass present for which surgery is planned, and not yet referred to an oncologist. The test utilizes five well-established biomarkers --- Transthyretin (TT or prealbumin), Apolipoprotein A-1 (Apo A-1), Beta2-Microglobulin (Beta2M), Transferrin (Tfr) and Cancer Antigen 125 (CA 125 II) --- and a proprietary algorithm to determine the likelihood of malignancy in women with pelvic mass for whom surgery is planned.
OVA1(TM) Test is a trademark of Vermillion Inc.
OncoGenex - OGX-427
"We are also considering a randomized Phase 2 clinical trial investigating OGX-427 in ovarian cancer," said Scott Cormack, President and Chief Executive Officer of OncoGenex."
full free access: TP53 Mutations in Human Cancers: Origins, Consequences, and Clinical Use — Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology
Somatic TP53 mutations occur in almost every type of cancer at rates from 38%–50% in ovarian and..........TP53 mutations, but not p53 positive immunohistochemistry (IHC), have been consistently associated with poor prognosis in cancers such as breast, colorectal, head and neck, and leukemia.....In terms of clinical applications, TP53 mutations have proven to be extremely complex biomarkers. Despite impressive progress in mechanistic understanding of p53 structure and function, p53 research has not yet generated applications of wide impact on cancer management and therapy."
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
abstract/full text: Gene silencing of glypican-3 in clear cell carcinoma of the ovary renders it more sensitive to the apoptotic agent paclitaxel
"Clear cell carcinoma has been classified as a subgroup of EOC and reported to be an interesting histologic type with unique clinical features. CCC showed a poorer prognosis compared to serous adenocarcinoma because it tended to be resistant to antineoplastic agents, including paclitaxel.
CCC comprises more than 15% of EOC cases in Japan, although it represents 8–10% of all EOC cases in the USA. Therefore, it is important to establish new treatment strategies to improve the prognosis of CCC patients.
GPC3 regulates cell growth either positively or negatively depending on the cell type. Genetic and functional studies showed that glypicans regulate the signaling activity of various morphogens, including Wnts, Hedgehogs, bone morphogenic proteins, and fibroblast growth factors. Previous studies showed that GPC3 was overexpressed in Wilms' tumor, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatoblastoma. In ovarian carcinoma, GPC3 was overexpressed in yolk sac tumor and CCC.(15–17) However, GPC3 function in CCC was unclear. Furthermore, we investigated the role of this molecule in the sensitivity of CCC to paclitaxel, which is a key drug for ovarian cancer, using shRNA targeting GPC3.
Taken together, our data could support the use of GPC3-targeted therapies for CCC patients. We suggest that therapy targeting to GPC3 may be a novel treatment strategy that could potentially help to prevent the appearance, progression, and/or recurrence of CCC."
full free access:
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/122614981/HTMLSTART
Longwoods Publishing - TOP TEN BEST READ DOCUMENTS/ARTICLES FOR DECEMBER 2009
Monday, January 04, 2010
Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer « Rush InPerson
Certain hereditary conditions, including:
- Hereditary pancreatitis
- multiple endocrine neoplasia type I syndrome (MEN)
- hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC or Lynch Syndrome)
- von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, ataxia-telangiectasia
- familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome (FAMMM)
- BRCA2
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- cystic fibrosis
New platinum compound shows promise in tumor cells-in research Milaplatin combination
New platinum compound shows promise in tumor cells
"The new compound, mitaplatin, combines cisplatin with another compound, dichloroacetate (DCA), which can alter the properties of mitochondria selectively in cancer cells. Cancer cells switch their mitochondrial properties to change the way they metabolize glucose compared to normal cells, and DCA specifically targets the altered mitochondria, leaving normal cells intact."
Long-term decline in cervical cancer inciden...
In perspective??
2006 Canadian deaths=380..........need for a population based vaccine is ????
2006 Canadian deaths=380..........need for a population based vaccine is ????
Sunday, January 03, 2010
Saturday, January 02, 2010
"Dear Cancer" - Varian RapidArc's Letter Writing Campaign "Dear Cancer"
Note: at this moment the website shows that 1,770+ letters have been written, only 14 ovarian cancer contributions
(to check out the website click on the logo for further information)
Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer: A Panacea or Just an Obstacle Course for the Patient?
comment: although this discussion is related to colorectal cancer, awareness of these concerns is relevant to our community, I believe
Journal of Pediatric Surgery : Can we preoperatively risk stratify ovarian masses for malignancy?
"1- to 8-year age group had the highest percentage of malignancies"
Friday, January 01, 2010
Single agent carboplatin versus carboplatin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in recurrent ovarian cancer: Final survival results of a SWOG ph 111
Single agent carboplatin versus carboplatin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in recurrent ovarian cancer: Final survival results of a SWOG (S0200) phase 3 randomized trial
"For currently unknown reasons, administering PLD with carboplatin appears to substantially reduce the incidence of platinum-associated hypersensitivity reactions."
Comparison of extended colectomy and limited resection in patients with Lynch syndrome
includes prophylactic (preventative) surgery
Guidelines for the management of ovarian cancer during pregnancy.
"If chemotherapy is indicated, we recommend delaying administration, if possible, until after the delivery or at least after 20 weeks in order to minimize the potential fetal toxicity".
Does the use of diagnostic PET/CT cause stage migration in patients with primary advanced ovarian cancer?
Note: It's unfortunate that early stages of ovarian cancers were not included in this study.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Ovarian metastases from breast cancer
"Ovarian disease (cancer) was diagnosed at a median of 5 years after breast cancer. Seventy-five percent of patients were asymptomatic, and advanced-stage pelvic extent or extra-abdominal metastases were observed in 41.5% of patients. The median survival was 3 years..."
Safety Considerations and Potential Interactions of Vitamins: Should Vitamins Be Considered Drugs?
"...A, E, D can cause serious adverse events."
Identifying novel autoantibody signatures in ovarian cancer
CONCLUSIONS: Protein microarrays are suitable for autoantibody discovery in ovarian cancer but the signatures are of low frequency.
full free access EDITORIAL: Designing Early Detection Programs for Ovarian Cancer -- JNCI
free full access: Assessing Lead Time of Selected Ovarian Cancer Biomarkers: A Nested Case-Control Study -- JNCI
Note: small study, did not include family history of colorectal cancer (Lynch Syndrome); clear cell ovarian subtype
THE RESEARCH ARTICLE:
Assessing Lead Time of Selected Ovarian Cancer Biomarkers: A Nested Case-Control Study -- Anderson et al., 10.1093/jnci/djp438 -- JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Assessing lead time of selected ovarian cancer biomarkers | Science Codex
Assessing lead time of selected ovarian cancer biomarkers
"Concentrations of the biomarkers CA125, human epididymis protein 4 (HE4), and mesothelin began to rise 3 years before clinical diagnosis of ovarian cancer, according to a new study published online December 30 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. However, the biomarkers became substantially elevated only in the last year prior to diagnosis. The stage of the cancer at the time of marker elevation is not known.
CA125, HE4, mesothelin, B7-H4, decoy receptor 3, and spondin-2 have been identified as potential ovarian cancer biomarkers, but their behavior in the pre-diagnostic period, with the exception of CA125, has not been evaluated previously."
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
I don't need a 'war' to fight my cancer. I need empowering as a patient
O bituaries routinely inform us that so-and-so has died "after a brave battle against cancer".
Of course, we will never read that so-and-so has died "after a pathetically feeble battle against cancer".
Phase II Study of Carboplatin, Paclitaxel, and Bevacizumab With Maintenance Bevacizumab As First-Line Chemotherapy for Advanced Mullerian Tumors
Forty-five women (73%) had ovarian cancer, 10 (16%) had peritoneal cancer, four (6%) had fallopian tube cancers, and three (5%) had uterine papillary serous tumors.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Lynch syndrome among gynecologic oncology patients meeting Bethesda guidelines for screening
"Our findings reinforce the recommendation that women diagnosed with endometrial cancer before the age of 45 years and women with synchronous endometrial and ovarian cancer be screened for LS, irrespective of family history."
Anthropometric Measures and Risk of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Results From the Nurses' Health Study
Anthropometric: understanding human physical variation
Ohio Hospital Program Increases Interaction Between Nurses, Patients
"In October 2008, staff members at Riverside Methodist Hospital (RMH) in Columbus, OH, approached Sheryl Tripp, MSN, RN-BC, nurse manager for the gynecology/gynecology-oncology (gyn/gyn-onc) surgical unit, in hopes of changing the way nurses were issuing patient reports."
Longwoods Healthcare Blog: “What Do Patients Want? A Critical Look at Healthcare Delivery in Canada”
"But the debate, like the health system itself, has been dominated largely by vested interests. I’m watching it, just like you do, from afar. People like the insurance industry and dogmatists from all across the political spectrum – right and left. Rarely in that debate do we hear from patients, or more specifically, from patients without a political agenda or not hired by a group with a message to sell. Rarer still is to hear patients articulate what they want or expect from a health system. And that’s not unique to the US discussion; we have the same problem in Canada...."
Sunday, December 27, 2009
blog: The New Mammogram Guidelines - What You Need to Know (U.S.)
The New Mammogram Guidelines - What You Need to Know
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
Intraperitoneal VEGF Inhibition Using Bevacizumab: A Potential Approach for the Symptomatic Treatment of Malignant Ascites?
"THE NECESSITY FOR CLINICAL TRIALS EVALUATING BEVACIZUMAB TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH MALIGNANT ASCITES
Based on the preclinical and clinical data outlined above, we strongly suggest that the efficacy and safety of the i.p. application of bevacizumab for the treatment of malignant ascites be assessed in stringently designed clinical studies. Bevacizumab is generally well tolerated and has an acceptable toxicity profile consisting primarily of hypertension and proteinuria. Other rare but important adverse effects, however, include delayed wound healing, arterial thrombosis, and bleeding [118]. Finally, a potentially serious adverse effect of bevacizumab is gastrointestinal perforation and, although comparably infrequent, this potentially life-threatening complication has generated significant clinical interest. Overall, gastrointestinal perforation was found to be an uncommon but well-documented side effect of treatment in the phase III trials of bevacizumab, as well as in subsequent surveillance trials, with a reported incidence of 1%–2% [106, 107, 109, 119]. Though strong evidence identifying specific risk factors is lacking, investigators have urged caution when treating patients with known bowel implants or a large tumor burden, prior radiation, and recent surgery or bowel obstruction [106, 119, 120]."
Chicago Cancer Genome Project studies genetics of 1,000 tumors
The project also will gather genetic data on how the genes expressed by tumors evolve over time. Whenever possible, the researchers will compare tumor samples taken from a patient before and after treatments, to learn how cancers accumulate additional genetic changes that enable them to resist radiation or chemotherapy or to spread to distant sites.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
open access: Cancer risk in MLH1, MSH2 and MSH6 mutation carriers; different risk profiles may influence clinical management
Subjects carrying a mutation in one of the MMR genes have a higher risk for developing colorectal cancer, but also for endometrial carcinoma and malignancies of the stomach, small bowel, ovaries, upper uroepithelial tract, biliary tract, skin and brain.(pancreas)
Quality of life data as prognostic indicators of survival in cancer patients: an overview of the literature from 1982 to 2008
More importantly, tumour type and stage of disease are essential for drawing conclusions from such findings.
Carey et al.
2008 244 advanced ovarian cancer EORTC QLQ-C30 Performance status and global QOL scores at baseline were prognostic factors for both progression-free survival and overall survival.
Gupta et al.
2008 90 ovarian cancer Ferrans and Powers QLI No statistically significant prognostic
association of patient satisfaction with QOL was observed with survival.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The effect of primary cytoreduction on outcomes of patients with FIGO stage IIIC ovarian cancer stratified by the initial tumor burden in the upper ab
The effect of primary cytoreduction on outcomes of patients with FIGO stage IIIC ovarian cancer stratified by the initial tumor burden in the upper abdomen cephalad to the greater omentum.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Radiation recall dermatitis -- Guarneri and Guarneri, 10.1503/cmaj.090320 -- Canadian Medical Association Journal
Includes potential for radiation recall and specific treatment therapies such as: 5-fluorouracil, hydroxyurea, vinblastine,
methotrexate, adriamycin, etoposide, tamoxifen, bleomycin, melphalan, paclitaxel, docetaxel, gemcitabine, pegylated liposomal
doxorubicin, interferon α-2b, antituberculous drugs and simvastatin.
Medical News: Abdominal Surgery Risky for Older Patients
These associations held for patients with cancer and other diagnoses, and for both elective and nonelective procedures (P<0.001).
Prevalence, Demographics, and Psychological Associations of Sleep Disruption in Patients With Cancer: University of Rochester Cancer Center-Community Clinical Oncology Program
Insomnia is prevalent, underrecognized, undermanaged, and understudied among patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Doctor and Patient - Holding Doctors Accountable for Medical Errors - NYTimes.com
Editorial Comment: The emphasis of this article seems to place a rather large burden on physicians which is not totally warranted.
Doctor and Patient - Holding Doctors Accountable for Medical Errors - NYTimes.com
Q. What is a major patient safety area that still needs to be addressed?
A. Ten years ago, we approached patient safety as a series of system flaws; we believed that most errors were committed by good competent people doing something no more complicated than forgetting a cellphone. But in the last few years some of us in the patient safety field have begun to feel uneasy about that approach. When there are reasonably safe standards available, what do you do when people simply don’t adhere to them? At some point, it’s no longer a “systems problem.”
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Effects of antioxidant supplements on cancer prevention: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials -- Myung et al. 21 (1): 166 -- Annals of Oncology
Cancer diagnostic assessment programs: standards for the organization of care in Ontario
related to:
Cancer diagnostic assessment programs: standards for the organization of care in Ontario
Regulation of microRNA biosynthesis and expression in 2102Ep embryonal carcinoma stem cells is mirrored in ovarian serous adenocarcinoma pts
full free access: Journal of Ovarian Research:
Regulation of microRNA biosynthesis and expression in 2102Ep embryonal carcinoma stem cells is mirrored in ovarian serous adenocarcinoma patients
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Urgent notice: Ovarian Cancer woman needs help - pls respond Vancouver, BC
An ovarian cancer woman is being discharged to home hospice care, however, her wishes are to die within an institutional complex hospice care facility. Physician hospice support would be required. Apparently these services are not available for patients/people with complex care. IF you can assist with these system issues please respond in an urgent manner.
Annexin IV is differentially expressed in clear cell carcinoma of the ovary
clear cell vs serous - potential biomarker
definition: Slacktivism - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Note: this is a 'new' term maybe and was found through a non-profit organizations's poll - rather disparaging term considering volunteerism is a large focus of NP's wouldn't you think? Comments?
Slacktivism - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
1988 - CA 125 in the Follow–Up of Patients with Ovarian Cancer; Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica - 67(1):Pages 53-58 - Informa Healthcare
Ca 125 in the Follow–Up of Patients with Ovarian Cancer; Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica - 67(1):Pages 53-58 - Informa Healthcare: "It is useful for monitoring the course of chemotherapy, but normal levels do not rule out the possibility of persistent or recurrent disease."
NIH Consumer Health Request for Information
NIH Consumer Health Request for Information: "We would like to hear from you!
The NIH Office of Communication and Public Liaison (OCPL) and the NIH Director's Council of Public Representatives (COPR) have partnered to develop a Consumer Health Information RFI in response to a Directive by President Barack Obama to all Federal agencies calling for greater transparency, public participation, and collaboration.
In conjunction with the NIH goals for public input and effective dissemination of science-based health resources and information to the public, the RFI will provide insight and better understanding of the health information needs and information-seeking behaviors of NIH health consumer audiences. Information gathered will assist the agency in developing and disseminating health, medical, and scientific information to a broader variety of audiences."
How Do I Apply? - Application Process, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
How Do I Apply? - Application Process, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
How Do I Apply - Application Process
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Endometrial carcinomas in women aged 40 years and younger: tumors associated with loss of DNA mismatch repair proteins comprise a distinct clinicopath
There are some very interesting pieces of information in this abstract (including ovarian/clear cell/endometrioid cell types:
Endometrial carcinomas in women aged 40 years and younger: tumors associated with loss of DNA mismatch repair proteins comprise a distinct clinicopathologic subset.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
In conversation with Dr. Brent Zanke | BioTuesday
The founder and chairman of ArcticDx
What’s the status of your colon cancer test?
Colo-Risk is undergoing clinical testing Colo-Risk is undergoing clinical testing in collaboration with McMaster University in Hamilton. The core intellectual property is owned jointly by Cancer Care Ontario, which runs provincial screening programs, and McGill University. There are additional pieces of IP that we are in the process of acquiring. And we’re hoping it will be launched next year as the first product of its kind to predict an individual’s risk of developing colorectal cancer.
The test combines your genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer with environmental risk factors like age, history of smoking and body mass index to come up with your life-time risk of developing the disease. So, if you’re carrying genes that say you’ve got a 30% or 40% likelihood of getting colon cancer at some time in my life, you will be vigilant in early screening programs. If you could tell from your genetic makeup that you have a 1% chance, that would be in keeping with your risk of developing a lot of other things as well.
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