Current Oncology

15 pages, 527 KB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Therapeutic Vaccines Against HPV: A Review of Human Clinical Trials

by Elena Martín, Gabriel Reina and Silvia Carlos

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110600 (registering DOI) - 25 Oct 2025

Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to preventive measures is limited. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types, mainly HPV16 and HPV18, is the key cause of cervical cancer. While prophylactic [...] Read more.

Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to preventive measures is limited. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types, mainly HPV16 and HPV18, is the key cause of cervical cancer. While prophylactic HPV vaccines effectively prevent new infections, they offer no therapeutic benefit for individuals with established lesions. This review evaluates the clinical evidence on therapeutic HPV vaccines, focusing on their ability to promote viral clearance. A bibliographic search was conducted in PubMed, selecting human studies reporting outcomes on HPV clearance. Seventeen clinical trials were identified, including DNA-based (VGX-3100, GX-188E), viral-vector (MVA E2, TG4001), peptide-based (Pepcan), and bacterial-vector (GLT 001) vaccines. Among them, DNA-based vaccines, particularly VGX-3100, showed the most consistent results, whereas several protein- or vector-based approaches demonstrated variable outcomes. Early therapeutic HPV vaccine trials faced setbacks due to limited efficacy, delivery approaches, and study design challenges, preventing progression to late-phase development. Recent DNA-based candidates, however, are advancing through phase II/III trials. While none have yet to be approved for commercial use, these vaccines elicit virus-specific T-cell responses and can induce regression of precancerous lesions, offering a promising addition to prophylactic vaccination and screening. Variability in study designs and endpoints underlines the need for standardized protocols and further phase III trials. Overall, therapeutic HPV vaccines represent a rapidly advancing field with the potential to complement prophylactic vaccination and screening, thereby strengthening global cervical cancer control efforts, particularly in LMICs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)

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15 pages, 609 KB

Open AccessArticle

Symptom Reporting Behaviors, Symptom Burden, and Quality of Life in Patients with Hormone Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer Undergoing Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy

by Ece Ulukal Karanci, Halil Göksel Güzel and Banu Öztürk

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110599 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background: Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) enhances survival outcomes in hormone receptor–positive (HR+) breast cancer. However, this treatment is associated with toxicities that may adversely affect the quality of life (QoL) and impact patient–physician communication. A thorough understanding of symptom-reporting behaviors is essential [...] Read more.

Background: Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) enhances survival outcomes in hormone receptor–positive (HR+) breast cancer. However, this treatment is associated with toxicities that may adversely affect the quality of life (QoL) and impact patient–physician communication. A thorough understanding of symptom-reporting behaviors is essential for optimizing survivorship care. Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed 191 female patients with HR+ breast cancer undergoing adjuvant AET (tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors ± ovarian function suppression [OFS]) at Antalya Training and Research Hospital between July and August 2025. QoL, symptom burden, and adverse event (AE) reporting behaviors were assessed using validated instruments (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 [EORTC QLQ-C30], adapted Patient-Reported Outcomes version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events [PRO-CTCAE]). Categorical variables were compared using chi-square tests, and multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression. Results: The median age was 54 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 46–61 years). The following independent variables were identified as predictors of a higher symptom burden: prior chemotherapy (odds ratio [OR]: 3.75; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46–9.69; p = 0.006), OFS use (OR: 3.29; 95% CI: 1.51–7.15; p = 0.003), AE reporting to physicians (OR: 3.52; 95% CI: 1.80–6.88; p < 0.001), and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use (OR: 7.27; 95% CI: 1.57–33.63; p = 0.011). Independent predictors of poor QoL included receiving psychological support (OR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.19–0.67; p = 0.002) and AE reporting (OR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.13–0.64; p = 0.001). Conclusions: Symptom burden and QoL in patients with HR+ breast cancer receiving AET are influenced by clinical history, including chemotherapy and OFS; behavioral factors, such as reporting behaviors; and supportive care, including CAM and psychological support. The routine integration of patient-reported outcomes and proactive symptom monitoring is crucial for delivering personalized and effective survivorship care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)

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13 pages, 689 KB

Open AccessArticle

Using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) to Describe Symptom Burden Associated with Breast Cancer and Related Treatments: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Sofia Torres, Maureen Trudeau, Geoffrey Liu, Nicholas Mitsakakis and Ahmed M. Bayoumi

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110598 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background: Symptom burden and functional impairment are common in women with breast cancer, yet their prevalence and clinical significance across the disease spectrum remain underexplored. We sought to describe symptom burden and performance status using patient-reported outcome measures and to identify patient characteristics [...] Read more.

Background: Symptom burden and functional impairment are common in women with breast cancer, yet their prevalence and clinical significance across the disease spectrum remain underexplored. We sought to describe symptom burden and performance status using patient-reported outcome measures and to identify patient characteristics associated with symptoms requiring clinical intervention. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, women with stage I–IV breast cancer completed the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) and the Patient-Reported Functional Status tool. We assessed the prevalence and severity of symptoms and calculated summary distress scores. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify patient characteristics associated with clinically significant symptoms (ESAS ≥ 4). Results: Among 381 women (mean age 56.8 years; 27% metastatic; 72% with no comorbidities), 70% reported at least one moderate to severe symptom. The most common were tiredness (31%), lack of well-being (30%), and anxiety (21%). Mean summary distress scores were low overall. Most patients reported functional status scores of 0 or 1, and 43% of those with scores ≥2 had metastatic disease. Compared with metastatic patients, women within the first year after diagnosis were less likely to report a symptom requiring intervention (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.24–0.90). Conclusions: Clinically significant symptoms are common among women with breast cancer, including those with potentially curable disease. Threshold-based use of ESAS, rather than reliance on mean scores, provides a more accurate assessment of patient needs. These findings support the routine integration of patient-reported outcomes into oncology care and underscore the importance of targeted multidisciplinary interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)

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24 pages, 1035 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Metabolic Imaging as Future Technology and Innovation in Brain-Tumour Surgery: A Systematic Review

by Thomas Kapapa, Ralph König, Jan Coburger, Benjamin Mayer, Kornelia Kreiser and Volker Rasche

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110597 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background: Standard imaging in neurosurgery often fails to visualize infiltrative tumor regions that extend beyond contrast enhancement. Metabolic imaging using hyperpolarized 13C-MRI may offer new intraoperative insights into tumor biology. Objective: To systematically assess the clinical and technical evidence on hyperpolarized MRI for [...] Read more.

Background: Standard imaging in neurosurgery often fails to visualize infiltrative tumor regions that extend beyond contrast enhancement. Metabolic imaging using hyperpolarized 13C-MRI may offer new intraoperative insights into tumor biology. Objective: To systematically assess the clinical and technical evidence on hyperpolarized MRI for metabolic tumour characterization in patients with malignant brain tumors. Eligibility criteria: We included original human studies reporting on hyperpolarized 13C-MRI for perioperative and diagnostic use in brain tumor patients. Reviews, animal studies, and technical-only reports were excluded. Information sources: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science on 26 December 2024. Risk of bias: Methodological quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Synthesis of results: A qualitative synthesis was performed, and where feasible, random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) and heterogeneity statistics. Results: Three studies (n = 15 patients) met inclusion criteria. The bicarbonate-to-pyruvate ratio showed a significant difference between tumor and non-tumour brain (SMD = 1.34, p = 0.002), whereas pyruvate-to-lactate ratio (kPL) values showed minimal difference (SMD = 0.06, p = 0.730). Asmall effect was observed for kPL between tumor and normal-appearing white matter (SMD = –0.33). One study provided qualitative data only. Overall heterogeneity was high (I² = 69.4%). Limitations: Limitations include small sample sizes, heterogeneous methodologies, and limited availability of patient-level data. Interpretation: Hyperpolarized 13C-MRI shows metabolic differentiation between tumor and healthy tissue in certain parameters, especially bicarbonate metabolism. While promising, the technology requires further clinical validation before routine intraoperative application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Innovations in Brain Tumor Surgery: Techniques and Outcomes)

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8 pages, 676 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Exceptional Response to Trastuzumab Deruxtecan (T-DXd) in HER2-Positive Metastatic Endometrial Cancer

by Riccardo Vida, Michele Bartoletti, Lucia Lerda, Serena Corsetti, Simona Scalone, Anna Calabrò, Angela Caroli, Monica Rizzetto, Giulia Zapelloni, Elisabetta Caccin, Stefano Fucina, Giorgia Bortolin, Sara Cecco, Paolo Baldo, Sandro Pignata, Daniela Califano, Vincenzo Canzonieri, Antonino Ditto and Fabio Puglisi

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110596 - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Objectives: Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecologic malignancy, and its mortality rate is rising. Advanced or recurrent disease remains challenging because historically there have been limited therapeutic options. We aim to describe a complete and durable response to the HER2-directed antibody–drug conjugate [...] Read more.

Objectives: Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecologic malignancy, and its mortality rate is rising. Advanced or recurrent disease remains challenging because historically there have been limited therapeutic options. We aim to describe a complete and durable response to the HER2-directed antibody–drug conjugate trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) in a heavily pretreated patient with HER2-positive, mismatch-repair-deficient metastatic serous endometrial cancer. Methods: A 72-year-old woman underwent hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and staging procedures for FIGO stage IIIA, high-grade serous papillary endometrial carcinoma. Tumour profiling revealed dMMR, a p53 abnormal pattern, and HER2 overexpression (IHC 3+). She received carboplatin/paclitaxel plus avelumab, followed by pegylated liposomal doxorubicin and weekly paclitaxel. After progression on paclitaxel, off-label T-DXd was initiated. Molecular data (FoundationOne CDx) were collected, along with and serial imaging and CA125 assessments. Results: The patient developed cough after two cycles of T-DXd; interstitial lung disease was excluded, and treatment resumed with steroid cover. By December 2024, PET/CT demonstrated complete metabolic response, with resolution of vaginal-vault and para-aortic lesions and normalisation of CA125. Real-world progression-free survival exceeded eight months, with ongoing symptom improvement. Treatment was generally well tolerated; the principal adverse event was grade 3 neutropenia requiring dose reduction. No cardiotoxicity or interstitial lung disease occurred. Conclusions: This case illustrates that T-DXd can induce deep and durable remission in HER2-positive, dMMR metastatic serous endometrial cancer after multiple lines of therapy. It adds real-world evidence supporting further investigation of HER2-directed antibody–drug conjugates in gynaecologic malignancies, and underscores the need for confirmatory trials and refined biomarker-driven patient selection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)

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10 pages, 1040 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Primary Intracranial Meningeal Melanocytoma with Malignant Transformation: A Case Report and Comparison of Early Versus Late Immunotherapy Interventions

by Yi-Qi Zhang, Kun-Ming Rau, Cheng-Loong Liang, Yu-Duan Tsai, He-Tai Jheng and Kuo-Wei Wang

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110595 - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Primary meningeal melanocytoma is an uncommon, pigmented neoplasm that rarely undergoes malignant transformation, and therapeutic guidelines remain undefined. We report a 43-year-old woman who initially presented with a sudden headache and a right temporal intraparenchymal mass. Subtotal resection revealed a melanocytoma (WHO grade [...] Read more.

Primary meningeal melanocytoma is an uncommon, pigmented neoplasm that rarely undergoes malignant transformation, and therapeutic guidelines remain undefined. We report a 43-year-old woman who initially presented with a sudden headache and a right temporal intraparenchymal mass. Subtotal resection revealed a melanocytoma (WHO grade I); residual tumor was treated with Gamma Knife. About 15 months later, she deteriorated rapidly due to malignant transformation with cerebral hemorrhage and spinal leptomeningeal metastasis. Pembrolizumab was initiated within four weeks of the malignant diagnosis and produced transient neurological improvement. Due to symptomatic progression, ipilimumab plus nivolumab was commenced and achieved temporary radiographic stabilization, but the patient succumbed to diffuse progression later. Including this case, only five intracranial melanocytomas with malignant transformation treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors have been reported. Our experience supports initiating immunotherapy promptly after malignant transformation and suggests that sequential dual-agent blockade may modestly extend disease control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neuro-Oncology)

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17 pages, 508 KB

Open AccessReview

HPV Testing, Self-Collection, and Vaccination: A Comprehensive Approach to Cervical Cancer Prevention

by Shannon Salvador

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110594 - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

This white paper, prepared by a consortium of Canadian national and provincial organizations and experts, outlines urgent strategies to curb the rising incidence of HPV-related cancers, of which, cervical cancer is currently the fastest-growing cancer in Canada. Despite school-based vaccination programs, the national [...] Read more.

This white paper, prepared by a consortium of Canadian national and provincial organizations and experts, outlines urgent strategies to curb the rising incidence of HPV-related cancers, of which, cervical cancer is currently the fastest-growing cancer in Canada. Despite school-based vaccination programs, the national HPV vaccine uptake remains suboptimal at about 64%, far below the 90% coverage target by 2025 necessary to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. The report emphasizes a multi-pronged approach: support access to HPV vaccination with expanded funding policies and education around school-based programs while addressing inequities in underserved populations. HPV testing is highlighted as the preferred method for cervical cancer screening, offering higher sensitivity than Pap smears. Self-collection is presented as an innovative strategy to reduce barriers, particularly for marginalized groups, with promising evidence from Canadian pilots and international models. Crucially, we call for investment in comprehensive, population-based databases to track vaccination, screening participation, and follow-up care. Robust registries would allow targeted outreach to under- or never-screened individuals, ensure timely follow-up of abnormal results, and measure the impact of prevention programs across Canada. With vaccination, equitable access to HPV testing, integration of self-collection, and strong data systems, Canada can achieve its goal of eliminating cervical cancer within two decades. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Action and Impact: Prevention and Screening Strategies Contributing to the Elimination of Cervical Cancer)

15 pages, 1012 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Hydrocodone Rescheduling on Pain Management Practices Among Older Breast Cancer Patients

by Chan Shen, Mohammad Ikram, Shouhao Zhou, Roger Klein, Douglas Leslie and James Douglas Thornton

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110593 - 23 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Hydrocodone, a commonly prescribed opioid, was rescheduled from Schedule III to Schedule II in October 2014, imposing stricter prescribing regulations. While prior studies have examined its effects in general populations, its impact on breast cancer patients remains unclear. We evaluated changes in pain [...] Read more.

Hydrocodone, a commonly prescribed opioid, was rescheduled from Schedule III to Schedule II in October 2014, imposing stricter prescribing regulations. While prior studies have examined its effects in general populations, its impact on breast cancer patients remains unclear. We evaluated changes in pain management among older women with early-stage breast cancer following this policy change. Using SEER-Medicare data from 2011–2019, we identified a retrospective cohort of 52,792 women aged ≥66 years. We assessed trends in the use of hydrocodone, non-hydrocodone opioids, NSAIDs, and antidepressants before and after rescheduling. Hydrocodone use declined from 55% to 40%, while non-hydrocodone opioid use increased from 43% to 50%. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for demographic and clinical factors confirmed a significant decrease in hydrocodone use (AOR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.75–0.86) and an increase in non-hydrocodone opioid use (AOR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.21–1.30). Hydrocodone dosage also declined, while non-hydrocodone opioid dosages remained stable. No significant changes were observed in NSAID or antidepressant use. These findings suggest that hydrocodone rescheduling significantly altered opioid prescribing patterns, reducing hydrocodone use and prompting a shift toward alternative opioids. Further research is warranted to evaluate the appropriateness and outcomes of such shifts in cancer pain management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)

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15 pages, 575 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Patients with Colorectal Cancer and Its Association with Pet Ownership: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Enes Erul, Aslı Nur Avcı, Erman Akkus, Ömer Faruk Ayas, Furkan Berk Danısman and Güngör Utkan

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110592 - 23 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a frequent and distressing concern among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors, often exerting a profound impact on psychological well-being, daily functioning, and treatment adherence. While several clinical and sociodemographic factors have been linked to FCR, the potential role [...] Read more.

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a frequent and distressing concern among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors, often exerting a profound impact on psychological well-being, daily functioning, and treatment adherence. While several clinical and sociodemographic factors have been linked to FCR, the potential role of pet companionship has not been systematically investigated in this population. This cross-sectional study included 167 patients with CRC, assessing FCR with the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory–Short Form (FCRI-SF), psychological distress with the DASS-21, and quality of life with the FACT-G. More than half of the participants (62.3%) met the threshold for high FCR. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that female sex, higher educational attainment, and increased depressive and anxiety symptoms were independently associated with greater odds of high FCR. Conversely, better overall quality of life was linked to lower FCR, with each additional FACT-G point reducing the likelihood of high fear by 5%. Notably, pet ownership emerged as a robust protective factor: pet owners demonstrated approximately one-quarter the odds of high FCR compared with non-owners. Subgroup analyses suggested that this protective effect was particularly evident among women and patients with fewer children, groups potentially more vulnerable to social isolation. These findings highlight pet ownership as a novel factor associated with reduced FCR in CRC patients and suggest potential directions for supportive interventions integrating companion animals into survivorship care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Routine Screening for Distress, Depression and Anxiety in Oncology: Where Are We Now?)

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19 pages, 299 KB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers and Facilitators to Cervical Cancer Screening in Northern Uganda: Qualitative Insights from Healthcare Workers and Administrators

by Noemi Maria Felisi, David Oyet, Kayeny Miriam Melody Yung, Emmanuel Ochola, Riccardo Vecchio and Anna Odone

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110591 - 23 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is the most common cancer among Ugandan women and the leading cause of cancer mortality. Screening has proven to be a cost-effective method in reducing its burden, yet uptake among women of reproductive age remains alarmingly low, with national [...] Read more.

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is the most common cancer among Ugandan women and the leading cause of cancer mortality. Screening has proven to be a cost-effective method in reducing its burden, yet uptake among women of reproductive age remains alarmingly low, with national adherence rates under 10%. Objective: This study explored healthcare workers’ (HWs) perspectives on barriers and facilitators to screening and attitudes toward implementing human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing with self-collection. Methods: A qualitative research design was employed. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposively sampled healthcare providers and administrators across different cadres at a referral hospital and three peripheral health centres in Northern Uganda. Interviews were analysed thematically using the Social Ecological Model. Data collection and analysis proceeded iteratively until thematic saturation. Reporting follows the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ). Results: Participants described individual and interpersonal barriers such as limited awareness, poor preventive health-seeking, fear of results, stigma, and limited male involvement. Organisational barriers included staff shortages, weak referral practices, and stock-outs of supplies, while policy constraints included limited governmental support and competing priorities. Facilitators included targeted health education, routine referrals from all service entry points, outreach screening, and donor support. Most respondents favoured scaling up of self-collected HPV testing, citing higher acceptability and feasibility for outreach, contingent on sustained supplies, laboratory capacity, and training. Conclusions: Multi-level interventions are needed to strengthen facility workflows, staff capability, community engagement, and reliable supply chains. Expanding access to self-collected HPV testing may overcome major barriers and represents a promising strategy to increase screening uptake in Uganda and similar low resource settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)

12 pages, 1162 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy and Cold Knife Conization for Cervical High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions

by Xiaoyun Wang, Yiquan Chen, Jianxia Huang, Qiong He and Jianwei Zhou

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110590 - 22 Oct 2025

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Abstract

(1) Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) offers a non-invasive alternative for managing cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. This comparative study assessed the efficacy and safety of 5-ALA PDT versus cervical conization in treating HSIL. (2) Methods: A total of 137 patients with [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) offers a non-invasive alternative for managing cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. This comparative study assessed the efficacy and safety of 5-ALA PDT versus cervical conization in treating HSIL. (2) Methods: A total of 137 patients with HSIL and HPV infection, confirmed by pathological biopsy, were included. Based on patient preference and gynecological evaluation, participants were allocated into the PDT group and the CKC group. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 6 months post-treatment, involving HPV testing, cytology, and colposcopy. Additionally, any discomfort or side effects experienced during treatment were documented, along with a preliminary analysis of treatment costs and duration. (3) Results: The overall lesion remission rates were 88.0% for the PDT group and 89.6% for the CKC group, while HPV clearance rates were 80.0% and 82.7%, respectively. Although no statistically significant difference in efficacy was observed between the two groups, the PDT group exhibited a notably lower incidence of side effects. Nevertheless, the PDT group was associated with higher costs and longer treatment duration. (4) Conclusions: These findings indicate that 5-ALA PDT achieves comparable efficacy to CKC in the treatment of HSIL. Therefore, PDT may serve as a valuable therapeutic option for patients seeking fertility preservation or less invasive management strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gynecologic Oncology)

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16 pages, 490 KB

Open AccessReview

ctDNA in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: A Critical Appraisal

by Sujata Ojha, William Sessions, Yuhang Zhou and Kyaw L. Aung

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110589 - 22 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest malignancies due to late diagnosis and limited treatment options. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a promising, minimally invasive biomarker that could improve the clinical outcomes of patients with PDAC by enabling early disease detection, [...] Read more.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest malignancies due to late diagnosis and limited treatment options. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a promising, minimally invasive biomarker that could improve the clinical outcomes of patients with PDAC by enabling early disease detection, minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment, precise prognostication, and accurate treatment monitoring. CtDNA has prognostic as well as predictive value in both resectable and metastatic settings, with serial measurements enhancing risk stratification and recurrence prediction beyond CA19-9. However, despite the promise, the true potential of ctDNA has not yet been fulfilled in patients with PDAC. The current limitations include a low sensitivity of ctDNA assays in early stage PDAC, challenges in the assay interpretation due to the specific nature of ctDNA shedding in PDAC, inter-patient heterogeneity, and technical variability. As precision oncology advances, ctDNA will be a powerful tool for personalized care in PDAC, but rigorous validation of its use within specific clinical contexts is still needed before the true potential of ctDNA is realized for patients with PDAC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Oncology Biomarkers)

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21 pages, 1732 KB

Open AccessReview

Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Oncology: From Productivity Enhancement to Creative Discovery

by Masahiro Kuno, Hiroki Osumi, Shohei Udagawa, Kaoru Yoshikawa, Akira Ooki, Eiji Shinozaki, Tetsuo Ishikawa, Junna Oba, Kensei Yamaguchi and Kazuhiro Sakurada

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110588 - 22 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Modern clinical oncology faces an unprecedented data complexity that exceeds human analytical capacity, making artificial intelligence (AI) integration essential rather than optional. This review examines the dual impact of AI on productivity enhancement and creative discovery in cancer care. We trace the evolution [...] Read more.

Modern clinical oncology faces an unprecedented data complexity that exceeds human analytical capacity, making artificial intelligence (AI) integration essential rather than optional. This review examines the dual impact of AI on productivity enhancement and creative discovery in cancer care. We trace the evolution from traditional machine learning to deep learning and transformer-based foundation models, analyzing their clinical applications. AI enhances productivity by automating diagnostic tasks, streamlining documentation, and accelerating research workflows across imaging modalities and clinical data processing. More importantly, AI enables creative discovery by integrating multimodal data to identify computational biomarkers, performing unsupervised phenotyping to reveal hidden patient subgroups, and accelerating drug development. Finally, we introduce the FUTURE-AI framework, outlining the essential requirements for translating AI models into clinical practice. This ensures the responsible deployment of AI, which augments rather than replaces clinical judgment, while maintaining patient-centered care. Full article

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Curr. Oncol., Volume 32, Issue 11 (November 2025) – 13 articles

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