Current Oncology

17 pages, 762 KB

Open AccessArticle

Real-World Prevalence, Treatment Patterns, and Economic Impact of EGFR- and ALK-Targeted Therapies in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Nationwide Analysis from Greece

by George Gourzoulidis, Catherine Kastanioti, George Mavridoglou, Theodore Kotsilieris, Anastasios Tsolakidis, Konstantinos Mathioudakis, Dikaios Voudigaris and Charalampos Tzanetakos

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100542 (registering DOI) - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the prescribing prevalence of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)- and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients in Greece and examine patterns of first-line tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) utilization and associated treatment costs using nationwide real-world data. [...] Read more.

Objectives: To determine the prescribing prevalence of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)- and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients in Greece and examine patterns of first-line tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) utilization and associated treatment costs using nationwide real-world data. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the national e-prescription database was performed, identifying patients initiating first-line treatment (FLT) for EGFR- or ALK-positive NSCLC between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2022. Demographic characteristics, prescribing prevalence data, drug utilization patterns, total annual drug expenditures, and per patient treatment costs were assessed. All statistical analyses were performed using the statistical software SPSS-v.29. Results: Overall, 1188 EGFR-positive (mean age of 70.93 ± 11.6) and 246 (mean age of 64.26 ± 12.6) ALK-positive NSCLC patients initiated FLT during the three-year study period. EGFR mutations were slightly more common in females (53%), peaking in the 70–79 age group (35%). ALK mutations were also more common among females (52%), particularly within the 60–79 age group. In EGFR-positive patients, osimertinib usage markedly increased from 41% in 2020 to 63% in 2022, primarily displacing afatinib (from 32% to 22%) and erlotinib (from 24% to 14%), with gefitinib prescriptions falling below 2%. Among ALK-positive patients, crizotinib utilization declined significantly from 60% to 16%, whereas alectinib increased to 59% by 2022. Annual EGFR-related total drug expenditures remained stable (€11.5 million in 2020 vs. €11.9 million in 2022), driven primarily by increasing osimertinib usage. Similarly, ALK-related annual drug expenditures showed stability, with costs predominantly attributed to rising alectinib utilization. Conclusions: This nationwide analysis highlights the rapid adoption of second- and third-generation TKIs for EGFR- and ALK-positive NSCLC in Greece, reflecting evolving clinical practice patterns. Although the target patient populations are relatively small, the associated economic burden is considerable. To ensure long-term sustainability of the Greek healthcare system, policymakers should critically assess the cost-effectiveness of these innovative therapies and align resource allocation with value-based care principles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cost Effectiveness vs. Affordability in the Age of Targeted Drug Therapies)

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18 pages, 607 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phase Ib/II Study of Pamiparib Plus Radiation Therapy and/or Temozolomide in Adult Patients with Treatment-Naïve or Recurrent/Refractory Glioblastoma

by Anna F. Piotrowski, Kent Shih, Pierre Giglio, Howard Colman, Patrick Y. Wen, Jian Li Campian, Nicholas Butowski, Timothy Cloughesy, Zhaoyin Zhu, Vitaliy Gisin and Michael Badruddoja

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100541 (registering DOI) - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

Pamiparib, a small-molecule poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) 1/2 inhibitor, demonstrates strong PARP-DNA complex trapping, antitumor activity, and blood–brain barrier penetration. This phase Ib/II dose-escalation study (NCT03150862) investigated pamiparib’s tolerability/safety and efficacy when combined with radiotherapy and/or low-dose temozolomide (TMZ) in patients with treatment-naïve [...] Read more.

Pamiparib, a small-molecule poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) 1/2 inhibitor, demonstrates strong PARP-DNA complex trapping, antitumor activity, and blood–brain barrier penetration. This phase Ib/II dose-escalation study (NCT03150862) investigated pamiparib’s tolerability/safety and efficacy when combined with radiotherapy and/or low-dose temozolomide (TMZ) in patients with treatment-naïve (Arms A and B) and recurrent/refractory (Arm C) glioblastoma. The recommended phase II dose for Arm A was pamiparib 60 mg twice daily (BID) for 6 weeks with 6–7 weeks radiotherapy; the recommended dose for Arm C was pamiparib 60 mg BID plus 60 mg TMZ (days 1–7; 28-day cycle). The Arm B escalation cohort completed enrollment; the expansion cohort was not opened. Grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs)/serious TEAEs were observed in 55.0%/36.7% (Arm A), 44.4%/22.2% (Arm B), and 66.0%/38.3% (Arm C) of patients. Disease control and objective response rates were 67.9% and 11.3%, respectively, for treatment-naïve patients in the dose-escalation and -expansion studies, and 40.9% and 13.6%, respectively, for recurrent/refractory patients. Median overall survival for treatment-naïve MGMT unmethylated patients was 12.8 months and 7.3 months for recurrent/refractory MGMT methylated and unmethylated patients. Pamiparib with radiotherapy and/or low-dose TMZ was tolerable for treatment-naïve or recurrent/refractory glioblastoma. Treatment-emergent cytopenia was manageable and reversible with dose reductions/interruptions. Combination regimens demonstrated antitumor activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neuro-Oncology)

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10 pages, 3956 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Integrative Genomic and Clinicopathologic Characterization of Pure Primary Ovarian Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Case Report and Molecular Insight

by Hyonjee Yoon, Chaewon Kim, Yongseok Lee, Jimin Ahn and Minjin Jeong

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100540 (registering DOI) - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

Primary ovarian large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma is an extremely rare and aggressive gynecologic malignancy with poorly defined molecular characteristics and no standard treatment protocols. We present a case of pure ovarian LCNEC in a postmenopausal woman who underwent optimal cytoreductive surgery followed by [...] Read more.

Primary ovarian large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma is an extremely rare and aggressive gynecologic malignancy with poorly defined molecular characteristics and no standard treatment protocols. We present a case of pure ovarian LCNEC in a postmenopausal woman who underwent optimal cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the diagnosis. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealed a pathogenic BRCA2 frameshift mutation (c.7177dupA), an ATM nonsense mutation, and Tier II mutations in TP53 and PTEN. The tumor exhibited homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), and an exceptionally high tumor mutational burden (TMB) of 277.49 mutations/Mb. These molecular alterations closely resemble those observed in high-grade neuroendocrine carcinomas of cervical and endometrial origin, suggesting a convergent genomic profile across gynecologic neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). Our findings underscore the potential of comprehensive genomic profiling in rare tumors such as ovarian LCNEC to refine diagnosis and identify candidates for biomarker-driven therapies, including PARP inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors. This case supports the integration of molecular diagnostics into clinical practice and highlights the need for prospective studies incorporating molecular stratification to inform treatment strategies for rare and aggressive neuroendocrine tumors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Grade Neuroendocrine Neoplasms)

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17 pages, 321 KB

Open AccessReview

The Role of LncRNAs in Radio- and Chemoresistance of Glioblastoma: Prognostic or Therapeutic?

by Elisa Tremante, Ana Belén Díaz Méndez and Maria Giulia Rizzo

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100539 (registering DOI) - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

Malignant brain tumors remain highly challenging to treat due to intrinsic and acquired therapy resistance and limited therapeutic options, consequently contributing to poor prognosis. Advancing the understanding of resistance mechanisms alongside novel treatment strategies is essential to improve clinical outcomes. Altered gene expression [...] Read more.

Malignant brain tumors remain highly challenging to treat due to intrinsic and acquired therapy resistance and limited therapeutic options, consequently contributing to poor prognosis. Advancing the understanding of resistance mechanisms alongside novel treatment strategies is essential to improve clinical outcomes. Altered gene expression is common in tumors, and a specific class of non-coding RNAs, particularly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), is frequently deregulated. LncRNAs play critical roles in processes such as cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, and metastasis in brain cancer, functioning either as tumor promoters or suppressors. They exert their effects through transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Understanding the functional roles of lncRNAs in malignant brain tumors has become a priority, as they are differentially expressed in tumors compared to healthy tissue. These molecules are studied for their potential as therapeutic targets and biomarkers in oncology. This review provides an overview of current research on brain cancer and lncRNAs, emphasizing the need for further investigation into their specific roles in therapy resistance and their involvement in various pathways. A better understanding of lncRNAs and their role in brain cancer could offer valuable insights into their prognostic and therapeutic potential, with the promise of improving early diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resistance to Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy in Cancer: Understanding the Pathogenesis and Identifying the Best Approaches to Overcome This Challenge)

18 pages, 261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Parents’ Experiences and Clinicians’ Perceptions of Managing Cancer Pain in Young Children at Home

by Lindsay A. Jibb, Elham Hashemi, Surabhi Sivaratnam, Aimee K. Hildenbrand, Paul C. Nathan, Julie Chartrand, Nicole M. Alberts, Tatenda Masama, Hannah G. Pease, Lessley B. Torres, Haydee G. Cortes, Mallory Zworth, Susan Kuczynski and Michelle A. Fortier

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100538 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Pain is a prevalent and distressing symptom for children with cancer, negatively affecting quality of life and family functioning. While most research focuses on hospital-based care, many pain episodes occur at home, where parents act as primary caregivers with limited access to [...] Read more.

Background: Pain is a prevalent and distressing symptom for children with cancer, negatively affecting quality of life and family functioning. While most research focuses on hospital-based care, many pain episodes occur at home, where parents act as primary caregivers with limited access to evidence-based symptom management. Young children are particularly vulnerable due to limited self-reporting capacity and reliance on parental assessment. We aimed to explore parent experiences and pediatric oncology clinician perceptions of young children’s cancer pain at home, its impact on families, and recommended supports. Methods: Using an interpretive descriptive qualitative design, we conducted semi-structured interviews with parents of children aged 2–11 years undergoing outpatient cancer treatment and clinicians at two hospitals in Canada and the United States. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: In total, 21 parents and 21 clinicians participated. Three themes were developed: (1) the multifaceted experience of young children’s cancer pain at home, (2) the ripple effects of a young child’s cancer pain on the family unit, and (3) assessing and treating children’s cancer pain at home. Conclusion: Managing cancer pain at home places substantial emotional and practical demands on the families of young children. Our findings highlight that structured supports providing parents and clinicians with education, effective communication pathways, and collaboration opportunities may optimize home-based pain care, reduce caregiving burden, and improve outcomes for children and their families. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

13 pages, 731 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examining a Genomic Test in Predicting Extended Endocrine Benefit and Recurrence Risk in a Diverse Breast Cancer Population

by Ho Hyun Lee, Nicholas Siu-Li, Ian Pagano and Jami Aya Fukui

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100537 - 25 Sep 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: Extended endocrine therapy (EET) beyond five years can reduce distant recurrence in early-stage hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Index (BCI) predicts recurrence risk and EET benefits, yet racial/ethnic differences in its results remain unexplored. This study evaluates such [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Extended endocrine therapy (EET) beyond five years can reduce distant recurrence in early-stage hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Index (BCI) predicts recurrence risk and EET benefits, yet racial/ethnic differences in its results remain unexplored. This study evaluates such differences in a diverse early-stage HR+ breast cancer population. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed demographics, tumor characteristics and BCI scores of 159 women in Hawaii with early-stage HR+ breast cancer, self-identifying as Caucasian, Filipino, Japanese, Native Hawaiian, Other Asian/Pacific Islander, or Other. Tumor characteristics included size, grade, histology, lymph node/receptor status, Oncotype DX score, and laterality. Logistic regression used demographics and tumor features as predictor variables, with BCI’s benefit prediction and recurrence risk as outcome variables. (3) Results: Japanese and other Asian/Pacific Islander patients had significantly lower odds of high recurrence risk compared to Caucasian patients. Higher recurrence risk was associated with greater odds of predicted EET. Racial/ethnic differences in EET benefit prediction were not statistically significant. (4) Conclusions: No racial/ethnic differences in EET benefit prediction suggest BCI’s applicability in racially and ethnically diverse populations. Findings among Japanese and other Asian/Pacific Islanders point to potential biological or socioeconomic variation. Limitations include sample size and underrepresentation of certain groups. Future studies should address these gaps and adjust for known risk factors to further clarify BCI’s racial and ethnic implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)

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13 pages, 946 KB

Open AccessReview

Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Small Cell Lung Cancer: Data, Challenges and Priorities

by Chiara Catania, Priscilla Cascetta, Alessandro Russo, Emily Governini, Marzia Bendoni, Alice Laffi, Ilaria Piloni, Fabio Conforti, Laura Pala, Emilia Cocorocchio, Giovanni Ceresoli, Marzia Locatelli, Daniele Laszlo, Flaminia Facella and Tommaso De Pas

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100536 - 25 Sep 2025

Abstract

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine malignancy representing approximately 15% of all lung cancers. Characterized by rapid progression, early metastasis, and high circulating tumor cell burden, SCLC has a poor prognosis. Although initial responses to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy are [...] Read more.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine malignancy representing approximately 15% of all lung cancers. Characterized by rapid progression, early metastasis, and high circulating tumor cell burden, SCLC has a poor prognosis. Although initial responses to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy are common, relapse due to acquired resistance is nearly inevitable. Molecular studies have identified four transcription factor–driven subtypes—ASCL1, NEUROD1, POU2F3, and YAP1—each with distinct biological traits and therapeutic vulnerabilities. However, clinical classification remains largely homogeneous, limiting precision treatment strategies. Immunotherapy has modestly improved survival, as demonstrated in trials like IMpower133, CASPIAN, and ADRIATIC. Yet only a small subset of patients—approximately 12%—achieve long-term survival beyond five years. Understanding the biological and immunological profiles of these exceptional responders is critical. Future research should prioritize comprehensive biomarker integration, including PD-L1, TMB, DLL3, CD3, and emerging targets. Novel agents such as tarlatamab (DLL3-targeting) and ifinatamab deruxtecan (B7-H3–targeting) have shown encouraging efficacy in early-phase trials, though predictive markers remain elusive. A multi-dimensional approach combining tissue, blood, and immune profiling is essential to advance precision oncology in SCLC and improve patient selection for emerging therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Thoracic Oncology)

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18 pages, 5018 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Clinical, Radiological, and Pathological Features of Intraosseous Hibernoma: A Systematic Review of Case Reports and Case Series

by Jawad Albashri, Ahmed Albashri, Muhannad Alhamrani, Abdulrahman Hassan, Hisham Shamah, Rayan Alhefzi, Najim Z. Alshahrani, Mohammed R. Algethami, Louis-Romée Le Nail and Ramy Samargandi

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100535 - 24 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Intraosseous hibernoma (IOH) is a rare benign tumor composed of brown adipose tissue within the bone, frequently mimicking metastatic lesions and leading to diagnostic challenges. This systematic review aimed to consolidate and analyze all published IOH cases to improve recognition and inform management. [...] Read more.

Intraosseous hibernoma (IOH) is a rare benign tumor composed of brown adipose tissue within the bone, frequently mimicking metastatic lesions and leading to diagnostic challenges. This systematic review aimed to consolidate and analyze all published IOH cases to improve recognition and inform management. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library from database inception to March 2025. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they reported histopathologically confirmed cases of intraosseous hibernoma (IOH) in human patients. A total of 62 cases from 30 studies were included. The mean age was 59.2 years, with a female predominance. Lesions were most frequently located in the pelvis and spine and were typically identified incidentally during cancer staging or imaging performed for unrelated indications. Imaging often revealed sclerotic patterns on computed tomography (CT), hyperintense signals on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2-weighted and short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequences, and mild to moderate uptake on ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT). Immunohistochemistry consistently showed S100 protein positivity. Most patients underwent biopsy and were managed conservatively, with no cases of malignant transformation reported. IOH is a benign entity with distinctive radiologic and immunohistochemical features that may mimic malignancy. Awareness of its presentation can reduce misdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions, supporting biopsy-based confirmation and conservative management in most cases. Full article

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13 pages, 584 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value as a Predictor of Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Urothelial Carcinoma of the Bladder: A Pilot Study

by Ali Erhan Eren, Asim Armagan Aydin, Eren Erdi Aksaray, Arda Durak, Ahmet Unlu, Mahmut Ekrem Islamoglu, Banu Ozturk and Mustafa Yildiz

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100534 - 24 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Background: Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) demonstrates considerable heterogeneity, with markedly varying outcomes between non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV), derived from routine hematological parameters, has emerged as a novel biomarker reflecting systemic inflammation and [...] Read more.

Background: Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) demonstrates considerable heterogeneity, with markedly varying outcomes between non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV), derived from routine hematological parameters, has emerged as a novel biomarker reflecting systemic inflammation and immune dysregulation. This pilot, exploratory analysis evaluated the prognostic relevance of the PIV in UCB and contextualized PIV against other inflammation-based indices. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 119 patients with histologically confirmed UCB who were treated between 2019 and 2024. PIV was calculated as (neutrophils × platelets × monocytes) ÷ lymphocytes. Additional indices included the NLR, SII, SIRI, and PLR. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan–Meier analysis, and prognostic factors were assessed using Cox regression. Results: Among 119 patients (median age, 72 years; 88% male), 68 were diagnosed with NMIBC and 51 with MIBC. Elevated PIV levels were significantly associated with NMIBC progression to MIBC (p = 0.028) and strongly correlated with NLR, SII, SIRI, and PLR. Patients with high PIV exhibited shorter OS (24 vs. 45 months) and PFS (20 vs. 35 months) than those with low patients (p < 0.001). Although the prognostic value was evident in the univariate analyses, PIV did not retain significance in multivariate models. Conclusion: Elevated PIV levels predict adverse survival outcomes and progression in UCB, underscoring its potential as a cost-effective and accessible biomarker for risk stratification. Prospective validation in larger cohorts is warranted to confirm its role in personalized patient management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Oncology Biomarkers)

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26 pages, 6070 KB

Open AccessArticle

Deep Learning-Based 30-Day Mortality Prediction in Critically Ill Bone and Bone Marrow Metastasis Patients: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

by Yixi Wang, Lintao Xia, Yuqiao Tang, Wenzhe Li, Jian Cui, Xinkai Luo, Hongyuan Jiang and Yuqian Li

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100533 - 24 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Bone and bone marrow Metastasis (BBM) are life-threatening complications of advanced malignancies, frequently requiring intensive care and associated with high short-term mortality. However, prognostic tools specifically tailored to critically ill BBM patients are limited. This multicenter cohort study aimed to develop and validate [...] Read more.

Bone and bone marrow Metastasis (BBM) are life-threatening complications of advanced malignancies, frequently requiring intensive care and associated with high short-term mortality. However, prognostic tools specifically tailored to critically ill BBM patients are limited. This multicenter cohort study aimed to develop and validate deep learning models for predicting 30-day mortality using ICU data from MIMIC-IV, eICU-CRD, and the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. After univariate screening, XGBoost-Boruta and Lasso regression identified 11 key clinical features within 24 h of ICU admission. Thirteen deep learning models were trained using five-fold cross-validation, and their performance was evaluated through AUC, average precision, calibration, and decision curves. TabNet achieved the best internal performance (AUC 0.878; AP 0.940) and maintained strong discrimination in both same-region (eICU: AUC 0.840; AP 0.932) and cross-regional (Xinjiang: AUC 0.831; Accuracy 80.5%) validation. SHAP and attention-based interpretability analyses consistently identified SOFA, serum calcium, and albumin as dominant predictors. A TabNet-based online calculator was subsequently deployed to enable bedside mortality risk estimation. In conclusion, TabNet demonstrates potential as an accurate and interpretable tool for early mortality risk stratification in critically ill BBM patients, offering support for more timely and individualized decision-making in BBM-related critical care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Treatment of Bone Metastasis)

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13 pages, 1654 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Phase Ib Study of Indirect Immunization with Oregovomab and Toll-like-Receptor-3 Stimulation with Hiltonol^® in Patients with Recurrent Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer

by Robert W. Holloway, Sarah M. Temkin, Sarah W. Gordon, Sunil Gupta, Srinivasa R. Jada, Sarfraz Ahmad and William P. McGuire

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100532 - 24 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Objectives: This phase Ib study assessed the safety and compatibility of indirect oregovomab immunization and Toll-like-receptor-3 (TLR3) stimulation with immune adjuvant Hiltonol^® (poly-ICLC) and induced clinically relevant CA125-specific anti-tumor immunity in heavily pretreated patients with progressive platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). Methods [...] Read more.

Objectives: This phase Ib study assessed the safety and compatibility of indirect oregovomab immunization and Toll-like-receptor-3 (TLR3) stimulation with immune adjuvant Hiltonol^® (poly-ICLC) and induced clinically relevant CA125-specific anti-tumor immunity in heavily pretreated patients with progressive platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). Methods: Patients with elevated serum CA125 level >50 U/mL received four intravenous infusions with 2 mg oregovomab followed by 2 mg Hiltonol^® intramuscular 30 min and 48 h post-oregovomab at weeks 0, 3, 6, and 9. At week 12, imaging was performed, and salvage chemotherapy was allowed post-progression per the investigator’s discretion. The Fifth/final oregovomab with Hiltonol^® infusion was given at week 16. Results: Fifteen enrolled patients were analyzed for safety and efficacy. Thirteen (87%) patients completed at least three Hiltonol^® infusions with oregovomab, specifically, two cycles (n = 2), three cycles (n = 2), four cycles (n = 3), and five cycles (n = 8). Adverse events included mild fatigue, flu-like symptoms, chills, axillary pain, and injection site discomfort in 13 (87%) patients. Serious adverse events were reported in seven (47%) patients, including Grade 3 hypertension (n = 2), thrombocytopenia (n = 1), and Grade 3 events attributed to underlying disease (n = 4). Ten (67%) patients had disease progression, three (20%) had stable disease, and two were unevaluable. Early humoral response by week 6 was observed in seven of nine (77%) patients, median progression-free survival was 2.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.2, 3.3), and median overall survival was 15.0 months (95% CI: 8.2–23.9). Conclusions: The safety and compatibility of combining oregovomab with Hiltonol^® have been demonstrated in this study. The potential to enhance activity of chemotherapy using oregovomab indirect immunization and Hiltonol^® stimulation is proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)

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27 pages, 2788 KB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Intracellular Lipid-Binding Proteins in Digestive System Neoplasms

by Christos Kakouratos, Adriana Fernandez Garcia, Pramod Darvin and Hemant M. Kocher

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100531 - 24 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Intracellular lipid-binding proteins (iLBPs) are key mediators of intracellular transport for fatty acids and retinoids, functioning as lipid chaperones. Beyond lipid transport, iLBPs regulate signalling pathways, gene expression, oxidative balance, and inflammation. Furthermore, they are increasingly recognised for their involvement in gastrointestinal (GI) [...] Read more.

Intracellular lipid-binding proteins (iLBPs) are key mediators of intracellular transport for fatty acids and retinoids, functioning as lipid chaperones. Beyond lipid transport, iLBPs regulate signalling pathways, gene expression, oxidative balance, and inflammation. Furthermore, they are increasingly recognised for their involvement in gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, especially in cancer. iLBPs are classified into four different subfamilies, each displaying distinct tissue distributions and ligand preferences. Functional roles are context-dependent, for instance, CRABP2 may act as either tumour suppressor or promoter, and FABP4 exhibits metabolic state dependent effects. These proteins also influence drug resistance, immune evasion, and lipid-mediated signalling. Overall, iLBPs extend beyond lipid trafficking to intersect with oncogenic pathways, influence cell fate, and affect treatment response, highlighting their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in GI oncology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

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14 pages, 3389 KB

Open AccessArticle

PET/CT Imaging Characteristics of Gastric-Type Endocervical Adenocarcinoma: Findings from a Small Exploratory Series

by Yun Wang, Xuan Zhou, Yun Xi, Hanmei Lou, Linfa Li, Heqing Yi and Tao Zhu

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100530 - 23 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Objective: To identify distinctive 18F-FDG positron emission tomography (PET)/computer tomography (CT) features of gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (GAS) that differentiate it from squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and usual-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (UEA), as well as to correlate these findings with pathological characteristics. Methods: Patients treated [...] Read more.

Objective: To identify distinctive 18F-FDG positron emission tomography (PET)/computer tomography (CT) features of gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (GAS) that differentiate it from squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and usual-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (UEA), as well as to correlate these findings with pathological characteristics. Methods: Patients treated between December 2018 and December 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. The study included 12 GAS, 48 SCC, and 30 UEA cases. Evaluated parameters included tumor morphology, cystic components, uterine cavity fluid, N/M staging, tumor diameter, the cervical lesion maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), and the tumor-to-liver maximum standardized uptake ratio (T/L SUVmax). Results: GAS predominantly exhibited diffuse infiltrative growth (11/12), in contrast to mass-like growth observed in SCC (37/48) and UEA (24/30) (both p < 0.001). Cystic components, uterine cavity fluid, and peritoneal metastasis occurred significantly more frequently in GAS (12/12, 11/12, 5/12, respectively) compared to SCC and UEA (all p < 0.001). Elevated CA19-9 levels were more common in GAS (9/12) compared with SCC (p < 0.001). Tumor diameter did not differ significantly among the groups (p > 0.05). SUVmax and T/L SUVmax values were significantly lower in GAS (7.5 ± 3.8 and 2.5 ± 1.6, respectively) than in UEA (19.1 ± 11.4 and 5.7 ± 3.4) and SCC (17.4 ± 6.7 and 5.5 ± 2.6) (all p < 0.001). Conclusion: The clinical characteristics of GAS include infiltrative tumor growth, fluid accumulation in the uterine cavity, frequent formation of microcystic or macrocystic components, peritoneal metastasis, and elevated CA19-9 levels. In this cohort, SUVmax and T/L SUVmax values in GAS were significantly lower than those observed in SCC and UEA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)

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13 pages, 986 KB

Open AccessArticle

Public Engagement with Lung Cancer Screening Information: Topic Modeling of Lung Cancer-Related Reddit Posts

by Aditi Jaiswal, Samia Amin, Sayed M. S. Amin, Donghee Nicole Lee, Sungshim Lani Park and Pallav Pokhrel

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100529 - 23 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography is an effective strategy for early detection and improved survival. Despite its clinical benefits, public engagement with LCS topic remains unclear, particularly in the digital health communities. This study examines the thematic landscape of lung [...] Read more.

Lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography is an effective strategy for early detection and improved survival. Despite its clinical benefits, public engagement with LCS topic remains unclear, particularly in the digital health communities. This study examines the thematic landscape of lung cancer-related discussions on Reddit. Using Python’s Reddit API Wrapper, we collected 109,868 posts from six lung cancer-related subreddits between January 2019 and December 2024. After preprocessing, 105,118 unique posts were analyzed using Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic modeling to identify emergent themes. Topics were qualitatively reviewed and categorized into four high-level themes: treatment, mental health, smoking, and LCS. Mental health (71.82%) and treatment (16.84%) dominated the discourse, followed by smoking (8.30%), while LCS remained underrepresented (3.04%). Despite an increase in overall engagement from 2022 onward, LCS-related posts remained sparse, with no sustained upward trend. Reddit users frequently discuss treatment and mental health concerns related to lung cancer but rarely engage with LCS as a topic, revealing a critical gap in public awareness. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health strategies to promote LCS awareness on social media platforms, leveraging the platforms’ growing role in health communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Thoracic Oncology)

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11 pages, 552 KB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Risk of Pancreatic Cancer After Acute Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor Insecticide Exposure: A Nationwide Cohort Study

by JeongMi Moon, EuJene Jung, ByeongJo Chun, DongKi Kim and YeonJi Seong

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(10), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32100528 - 23 Sep 2025

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Abstract

This nationwide cohort study investigated whether a single episode of acute exposure to high-dose acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor insecticide is associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service were analyzed. The case group (n = [...] Read more.

This nationwide cohort study investigated whether a single episode of acute exposure to high-dose acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor insecticide is associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service were analyzed. The case group (n = 938) included adults exposed to organophosphate or carbamate insecticide and the control group (n = 3752) was matched by age, sex, and socioeconomic status. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals. Kaplan–Meier curves with log-rank tests evaluated differences in pancreatic cancer incidence. Over 33,219.8 person-years of follow-up, pancreatic cancer developed in 9 patients in the case group and 19 patients in the control group. The cumulative incidence of pancreatic cancer was significantly higher in the case group (log-rank p < 0.01). Acute high-dose exposure to AChE inhibitor insecticide was associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer (adjusted HR: 2.57). The risk was particularly elevated among women (HR: 5.85) and individuals with diabetes (HR: 2.75). Acute high-dose exposure to AChE inhibitor insecticide may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. Women and those with diabetes may represent high-risk subgroups. These findings highlight the need for targeted cancer surveillance and further confirmatory studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastrointestinal Oncology)

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Curr. Oncol., Volume 32, Issue 10 (October 2025) – 15 articles

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