Cancers

Research

12 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Incidence and Long-Term Outcomes of Biliary Tract Cancers in Olmsted County, Minnesota from 1976 to 2018

by Eugene C. Nwankwo, Jr., Amerti Guta, Scarlett S. Cao, Ju Dong Yang, Abubaker Abdalla, Wesam Taha, Joseph J. Larson, Jun Yin, Gregory J. Gores, Sean P. Cleary and Lewis R. Roberts

Cancers 2024, 16(15), 2720; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16152720 - 31 Jul 2024

Viewed by 855

Abstract

Biliary tract cancers, including cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder, and ampulla of Vater cancers, rank second among hepatobiliary cancers, known for their poor prognoses. The United States has witnessed a notable increase in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma incidence. This study examines the incidence and survival outcomes of biliary [...] Read more.

Biliary tract cancers, including cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder, and ampulla of Vater cancers, rank second among hepatobiliary cancers, known for their poor prognoses. The United States has witnessed a notable increase in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma incidence. This study examines the incidence and survival outcomes of biliary tract cancers in Olmsted County, Minnesota from 1976 to 2018. Using data from the Rochester Epidemiology Project (REP), residents aged 20 and above were analyzed across four eras. Incidence rates were calculated and adjusted for age and sex, and temporal trends were assessed using Poisson regression. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma exhibited a significant escalation in incidence rates over time, while gallbladder cancers showed a decline among women. Median survival times for biliary tract cancers notably improved. These findings confirm the rising incidence of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and suggest improving survival rates. Nevertheless, the overall prognosis for biliary tract cancers remains very poor, emphasizing the continual need for enhanced management strategies and further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Antitumor Effect of the Serine Protease Urokinase Inhibitor Upamostat and the Sphingosine Kinase 2 Inhibitor Opaganib on Cholangiocarcinoma Patient-Derived Xenografts

by Faizal Z. Asumda, Nellie A. Campbell, Mohamed A. Hassan, Reza Fathi, Daniella F. Vasquez Rico, Melanie Kiem, Ethan V. Vang, Yo Han Kim, Xin Luo, Daniel R. O’Brien, Sarah A. Buhrow, Joel M. Reid, Michael J. Moore, Vered Katz Ben-Yair, Mark L. Levitt, Jennifer L. Leiting, Amro M. Abdelrahman, Xinli Zhu, Fabrice Lucien, Mark J. Truty and Lewis R. Roberts Show full author list Hide full author list

Cancers 2024, 16(5), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16051050 - 5 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1994

Abstract

Upamostat is an orally available small-molecule serine protease inhibitor that is a highly potent inhibitor of trypsin 1, trypsin 2, trypsin 3 (PRSS1/2/3), and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA). These enzymes are expressed in many cancers, especially during tissue remodeling and subsequent tumor [...] Read more.

Upamostat is an orally available small-molecule serine protease inhibitor that is a highly potent inhibitor of trypsin 1, trypsin 2, trypsin 3 (PRSS1/2/3), and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA). These enzymes are expressed in many cancers, especially during tissue remodeling and subsequent tumor cell invasion. Opaganib (ABC294640), a novel, orally available small molecule is a selective inhibitor of the phosphorylation of sphingosine to sphingosine-1-phosphate (S-1-P) by sphingosine kinase 2 (SPHK2). Both sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) and SPHK2 are known to regulate the proliferation-inducing compound S-1-P. However, SPHK2 is more critical in cancer pathogenesis. The goal of this project was to investigate the potential antitumor effects of upamostat and opaganib, individually and in combination, on cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) xenografts in nude mice. PAX165, a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) from a surgically resected CCA, expresses substantial levels of SPHK2, PRSS1, PRSS2, and PRSS3. Four groups of 18 mice each were treated with upamostat, opaganib, both, or vehicle. Mouse weights and PAX165 tumor volumes were measured. Tumor volumes in the upamostat, opaganib, and upamostat plus opaganib groups were significantly decreased compared to the control group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

SerpinB3/4 Expression Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Patients with Cholangiocarcinoma

by Andrea Martini, Kritika Prasai, Tyler J. Zemla, Fowsiyo Y. Ahmed, Mamoun B. Elnagar, Nasra H. Giama, Vincenza Guzzardo, Alessandra Biasiolo, Matteo Fassan, Jun Yin, Patrizia Pontisso and Lewis R. Roberts

Cancers 2024, 16(1), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16010225 - 3 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1440

Abstract

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), the second most common primary liver tumor, is associated with a dismal outcome, and useful prognostic markers are not currently available in clinical practice. SerpinB3, a serine protease inhibitor, was recently found to play a relevant role in malignant transformation in [...] Read more.

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), the second most common primary liver tumor, is associated with a dismal outcome, and useful prognostic markers are not currently available in clinical practice. SerpinB3, a serine protease inhibitor, was recently found to play a relevant role in malignant transformation in different cancers. The aim of the present study was to determine the expression of SerpinB3/4 in tissue and serum samples of patients with CCA in relation to clinical outcomes. SerpinB3/4 was assessed in the tissue microarrays (TMAs) of 123 surgically resected CCAs. ELISA assays were carried out in 188 patients with CCA to detect the free and IgM-linked forms of SerpinB3/4. Overall survival was analyzed in relation to SerpinB3/4 expression, and Cox models were used to identify the variables associated with survival. High levels of SerpinB3/4 (TMA score 2+/3+) were detected in 15 tumors (12.2%), characterized by a more advanced TNM stage (III/IV: 64.3% vs. 31.3%; p = 0.031) and lower overall patient survival, independently of CCA subclass (intrahepatic CCA: median 1.1 (0.8—Not Estimable, NE) vs. 2.4 (1.8–3.4) years; p = 0.0007; extrahepatic CCA: median 0.8 (0.2—NE) vs. 2.2 (1.5–5.4) years; p = 0.011). Vascular invasion (p = 0.027) and SerpinB3/4 scores (p = 0.0016) were independently associated with mortality in multivariate analysis. Patients who had detectable free or IgM-linked SerpinB3/4 in their serum showed poorer survival (1 vs. 2.4 years, p = 0.015, for free SerpinB3/4, and 1 vs. 2.6 years, p = 0.0026, for SerpinB3/4–IgM). In conclusion, high levels of SerpinB3/4 in tissue and serum in CCA are associated with poor outcomes after surgery, regardless of tumor subclass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3153 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolomics of Duodenal Juice for Biliary Tract Cancer Diagnosis

by Kazuma Kishi, Masaki Kuwatani, Yuki Ohnishi, Yasuhiro Kumaki, Hiroyuki Kumeta, Hajime Hirata, Yunosuke Takishin, Ryutaro Furukawa, Kosuke Nagai, Hiroki Yonemura, Shunichiro Nozawa, Ryo Sugiura, Kazumichi Kawakubo, Tomoyasu Aizawa and Naoya Sakamoto

Cancers 2023, 15(17), 4370; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15174370 - 1 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1511

Abstract

The poor prognosis of malignant biliary diseases is partially caused by their difficult early diagnosis. Therefore, many patients are only diagnosed at advanced stages. This study aimed to improve diagnosis by clarifying the differences in the duodenal juice metabolomes of benign and malignant [...] Read more.

The poor prognosis of malignant biliary diseases is partially caused by their difficult early diagnosis. Therefore, many patients are only diagnosed at advanced stages. This study aimed to improve diagnosis by clarifying the differences in the duodenal juice metabolomes of benign and malignant biliary diseases. From October 2021 to January 2023, duodenal juice was obtained from 67 patients with suspected biliary diseases who required endoscopic ultrasonography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiography for diagnosis/treatment. The samples metabolomes were analyzed via nuclear magnet resonance spectroscopy using an 800-MHz spectrometer. Metabolomes of malignant and benign diseases were then compared, and multivariate analysis was performed to determine the relevant factors for malignancy/benignancy. For benignancy, no significant predictors were observed. For malignancy, acetone was a significant predictor, with higher concentrations in the malignant group than in the benign group. Regarding the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for biliary tract carcinoma diagnosis, the predictive value of acetone in duodenal juice was comparable with serum CA19-9 levels (area under the curve: 0.7330 vs. 0.691, p = 0.697). In conclusion, duodenal juice metabolomics is a feasible method that is available for differential diagnosis in the biliary disease field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multidisciplinary Treatment of Patients with Progressive Biliary Tract Cancer after First-Line Gemcitabine and Cisplatin: A Single-Center Experience

by Christian Müller, Jazan Omari, Konrad Mohnike, Caroline Bär, Maciej Pech, Verena Keitel and Marino Venerito

Cancers 2023, 15(9), 2598; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15092598 - 3 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1733

Abstract

Background: Patients with unresectable biliary tract cancer (uBTC) who progress despite first-line gemcitabine plus cisplatin (GC) treatment have limited systemic options with a modest survival benefit. Data are lacking on the clinical effectiveness and safety of personalized treatment based on multidisciplinary discussion for [...] Read more.

Background: Patients with unresectable biliary tract cancer (uBTC) who progress despite first-line gemcitabine plus cisplatin (GC) treatment have limited systemic options with a modest survival benefit. Data are lacking on the clinical effectiveness and safety of personalized treatment based on multidisciplinary discussion for patients with progressing uBTC. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included patients with progressive uBTC who received either best supportive care or personalized treatment based on multidisciplinary discussion, including minimally invasive, image-guided procedures (MIT); FOLFIRI; or both (MIT and FOLFIRI), between 2011 and 2021. Results: Ninety-seven patients with progressive uBTC were identified. Patients received best supportive care (n = 50, 52%), MIT (n = 14, 14%), FOLFIRI (n = 19, 20%), or both (n = 14, 14%). Survival after disease progression was better in patients who received MIT (8.8 months; 95% CI: 2.60–15.08), FOLFIRI (6 months; 95% CI: 3.30–8.72), or both (15.1 months; 95% CI: 3.66–26.50) than in patients receiving BSC (0.36 months; 95% CI: 0.00–1.24, p < 0.001). The most common (>10%) grade 3–5 adverse events were anemia (25%) and thrombocytopenia (11%). Conclusion: Multidisciplinary discussion is critical for identifying patients with progressive uBTC who might benefit the most from MIT, FOLFIRI, or both. The safety profile was consistent with previous reports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Liver Resection and Transplantation Following Yttrium-90 Radioembolization for Primary Malignant Liver Tumors: A 15-Year Single-Center Experience

by Daniel Aliseda, Pablo Martí-Cruchaga, Gabriel Zozaya, Macarena Rodríguez-Fraile, José I. Bilbao, Alberto Benito-Boillos, Antonio Martínez De La Cuesta, Luis Lopez-Olaondo, Francisco Hidalgo, Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé, Ana Chopitea, Javier Rodríguez, Mercedes Iñarrairaegui, José Ignacio Herrero, Fernando Pardo, Bruno Sangro and Fernando Rotellar

Cancers 2023, 15(3), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15030733 - 25 Jan 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2302

Abstract

Radioembolization (RE) may help local control and achieve tumor reduction while hypertrophies healthy liver and provides a test of time. For liver transplant (LT) candidates, it may attain downstaging for initially non-candidates and bridging during the waitlist. Methods: Patients diagnosed with HCC and [...] Read more.

Radioembolization (RE) may help local control and achieve tumor reduction while hypertrophies healthy liver and provides a test of time. For liver transplant (LT) candidates, it may attain downstaging for initially non-candidates and bridging during the waitlist. Methods: Patients diagnosed with HCC and ICC treated by RE with further liver resection (LR) or LT between 2005–2020 were included. All patients selected were discarded for the upfront surgical approach for not accomplishing oncological or surgical safety criteria after a multidisciplinary team assessment. Data for clinicopathological details, postoperative, and survival outcomes were retrospectively reviewed from a prospectively maintained database. Results: A total of 34 patients underwent surgery following RE (21 LR and 13 LT). Clavien–Dindo grade III-IV complications and mortality rates were 19.0% and 9.5% for LR and 7.7% and 0% for LT, respectively. After RE, for HCC and ICC patients in the LR group, 10-year OS rates were 57% and 60%, and 10-year DFS rates were 43.1% and 60%, respectively. For HCC patients in the LT group, 10-year OS and DFS rates from RE were 51.3% and 43.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Liver resection after RE is safe and feasible with optimal short-term outcomes. Patients diagnosed with unresectable or high biological risk HCC or ICC, treated with RE, and rescued by LR may achieve optimal global and DFS rates. On the other hand, bridging or downstaging strategies to LT with RE in HCC patients show adequate recurrence rates as well as long-term survival. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Golgi Protein 73 (GP73) Serum Levels Predict Outcome after Resection of Biliary Tract Cancer

by Sven H. Loosen, Justus Halpaap, Simon Labuhn, Jan Bednarsch, Patrick H. Alizai, Anjali A. Roeth, Sven A. Lang, Mihael Vucur, Jakob N. Kather, Wolfram T. Knoefel, Tom F. Ulmer, Ulf P. Neumann, Christoph Roderburg and Tom Luedde

Cancers 2022, 14(18), 4428; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14184428 - 12 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2102

Abstract

Background: Tumor resection represents the only potentially curative therapy for patients with biliary tract cancer. Nevertheless, disease recurrence is observed in about 50% of patients, leading to a 5-years survival rate of less than 50%. The Golgi protein 73 (GP73), a type II [...] Read more.

Background: Tumor resection represents the only potentially curative therapy for patients with biliary tract cancer. Nevertheless, disease recurrence is observed in about 50% of patients, leading to a 5-years survival rate of less than 50%. The Golgi protein 73 (GP73), a type II Golgi transmembrane protein, exerts important functions of intracellular protein processing and transportation. Circulating GP73 has recently been suggested as a prognostic marker following resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) but its role in the context of BTC has remained unknown. In this study, we evaluate a potential role of circulating GP73 as a novel biomarker in patients with resectable BTC. Methods: GP73 serum levels were measured by immunoassay in n = 97 BTC and n = 40 HCC patients as well as n = 31 healthy controls. Results were correlated with clinical data. Results: Serum GP73 levels were significantly elevated in BTC patients compared to healthy controls but lower compared to HCC patients. The combination of GP73/CA19-9 showed a sensitivity and specificity of 83.5% and 90.3% regarding the differentiation of BTC patients and healthy controls. BTC patients with baseline GP73 levels above the ideal cut-off value (42.47 ng/mL) showed a significantly reduced median overall survival (193 days) compared to patients with preoperative GP73 levels below this cut-off (882 days). These results were confirmed in uni- and multivariate Cox-regression analysis including several clinicopathological parameters such as age, ECOG performance status, tumor stage as well as established tumor markers and parameters of liver and kidney function. Conclusions: GP73 represents a previously unrecognized biomarker in the patients with resectable BTC that identifies patients with an impaired postoperative outcome. If larger clinical trials confirmed these findings, measurement of GP73 serum levels might become a novel tool in the challenging preoperative stratification process of patients with resectable BTC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Serum Levels of CXCL13 Are an Independent Predictor of Survival Following Resection of Biliary Tract Cancer

by Sven H. Loosen, Tom F. Ulmer, Simon Labuhn, Jan Bednarsch, Sven A. Lang, Patrick H. Alizai, Anne T. Schneider, Mihael Vucur, Ulf P. Neumann, Tom Luedde and Christoph Roderburg

Cancers 2022, 14(17), 4073; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14174073 - 23 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1855

Abstract

Background: The prognosis of biliary tract cancer (BTC) has remained very poor. Although tumor resection represents a potentially curative therapy for selected patients, tumor recurrence is common, and 5-year survival rates have remained below 50%. As stratification algorithms comprising the parameters of individual [...] Read more.

Background: The prognosis of biliary tract cancer (BTC) has remained very poor. Although tumor resection represents a potentially curative therapy for selected patients, tumor recurrence is common, and 5-year survival rates have remained below 50%. As stratification algorithms comprising the parameters of individual tumor biology are missing, the identification of ideal patients for extensive tumor surgery is often challenging. The CXC chemokine family exerts decisive functions in cell–cell interactions and has only recently been associated with cancer, but little is known about their function in BTC. Here, we aim to evaluate a potential role of circulating CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 in patients with resectable BTC. Methods: Serum levels of CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 were measured by multiplex immunoassay in a cohort of 119 BTC patients undergoing tumor resection and 50 control samples. Results: Circulating levels of CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 were all significantly elevated in BTC patients compared to healthy controls and increased the diagnostic power of established tumor markers such as CA19-9 when used in combination. Importantly, elevated levels of CXCL13 both before and after tumor resection identified a subgroup of patients with significantly impaired outcomes following tumor resection. As such, BTC patients with initial CXCL13 levels above the ideal prognostic cut-off value (25.01 pg/mL) had a median overall survival (OS) of 290 days compared to 969 days for patients with low initial CXCL13 levels. The prognostic value of circulating CXCL13 was further confirmed by uni- and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Finally, the individual kinetics of CXCL13 before and after tumor resection were also indicative of patient outcomes. Conclusion: Our data support a fundamental role of the CXC chemokine family in BTC and identified circulating levels of CXCL13 as a previously unrecognized marker for predicting outcomes following the resection of BTC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Current Trends in Inpatient Care and In-Hospital Mortality of Cholangiocarcinoma in Germany: A Systematic Analysis between 2010 and 2019

by Christoph Roderburg, Tobias Essing, Linde Kehmann, Sarah Krieg, Simon Labuhn, Jennis Kandler, Tom Luedde and Sven H. Loosen

Cancers 2022, 14(16), 4038; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14164038 - 21 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1695

Abstract

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare malignant disease of the biliary tract with an increasing incidence and a high mortality worldwide. Systematic data on epidemiological trends, treatment strategies, and in-hospital mortality of CCA in Germany are largely missing. However, the evaluation and careful [...] Read more.

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare malignant disease of the biliary tract with an increasing incidence and a high mortality worldwide. Systematic data on epidemiological trends, treatment strategies, and in-hospital mortality of CCA in Germany are largely missing. However, the evaluation and careful interpretation of these data could help to further improve the treatment strategies and outcome of CCA patients in the future. Methods: Standardized hospital discharge data from the German Federal Statistical Office were used to evaluate epidemiological and clinical trends as well as the in-hospital mortality of CCA in Germany between 2010 and 2019. Results: A total of 154,515 hospitalized CCA cases were included into the analyses. The number of cases significantly increased over time (p < 0.001), with intrahepatic CCA (62.5%) being the most prevalent tumor localization. Overall, in-hospital mortality was 11.4% and remained unchanged over time. In-hospital mortality was significantly associated with patients’ age and tumor localization. The presence of clinical complications such as (sub)acute liver failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or acute renal failure significantly increased in-hospital mortality up to 77.6%. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower among patients treated at high annual case volume centers. Finally, treatment strategies for CCA significantly changed over time and showed decisive differences with respect to the hospitals’ annual case volume. Conclusions: Our data provide a systematic overview on hospitalized CCA patients in Germany. We identified relevant clinical and epidemiological risk factors associated with an increased in-hospital mortality that could help to further improve framework conditions for the management of CCA patients in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Metabolic Disorders and Cholangiocarcinoma: Impact of a Postulated Risk Factor with Rising Incidence

by Leonardo G. Da Fonseca, Pedro H. Hashizume, Irai Santana de Oliveira, Laura Izquierdo-Sanchez, Lisa Rodrigues da Cunha Saud, Mariana Pinheiro Xerfan, Venancio Avancini Ferreira Alves, Evandro Sobroza de Mello, Paulo Herman, Jesus M. Banales, Claudia P. Oliveira and Flair J. Carrilho

Cancers 2022, 14(14), 3483; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14143483 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2201

Abstract

Introduction and objectives: The incidence of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) has been increasing globally. Although a concomitant increase in the incidence of metabolic disorders might suggest a causal relationship, the data are scarce. We aimed to describe the prevalence of metabolic disorders in patients with [...] Read more.

Introduction and objectives: The incidence of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) has been increasing globally. Although a concomitant increase in the incidence of metabolic disorders might suggest a causal relationship, the data are scarce. We aimed to describe the prevalence of metabolic disorders in patients with CCA and report the clinical features and outcomes. Patients and Methods: Retrospective study including patients with CCA. Patients were divided into: (1) past history of diabetes or/and overweight/obesity (“metabolic disorder group”) and (2) without any of these features (“non-metabolic-disorder group”). A Cox regression model was used to determine the prognostic factors. Results: 122 patients were included. In total, 36 (29.5%) had overweight/obesity, 24 (19.7%) had diabetes, and 8 (6.6%) had both. A total of 29 (23.8%) patients had resectable disease and received upfront surgery. A total of 104 (85.2%) received chemotherapy for advanced/recurrent disease. The overall survival of the cohort was 14.3 months (95% CI: 10.1–17.3). ECOG-PS 0 (p < 0.0001), resectable disease (p = 0.018) and absence of vascular invasion (p = 0.048) were independently associated with better prognosis. The “metabolic disorder group” (n = 52) had a median survival of 15.5 months (95% CI 10.9–33.9) vs. 11.5 months (95% CI 8.4–16.5) in the “non-metabolic-disorder group” (n = 70) (HR: 1.10; 95% CI 0.62–1.94). Patients with resectable disease in the “metabolic group” had longer survival than patients in the “non-metabolic group” (43.4 months (95% CI 33.9-NR) vs. 21.8 months (95% CI 8.6–26.9); HR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.03–0.59). Conclusion: Metabolic disorders are frequent among CCA patients. Underlying metabolic comorbidities may be associated with prognosis in resectable CCA. There is a need to explore the mechanism that drives CCA carcinogenesis in a metabolic background. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recent Trends and In-Hospital Mortality of Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) in Germany: A Systematic Analysis of Hospital Discharge Data between 2010 and 2019

by Sarah Krieg, Tobias Essing, Andreas Krieg, Christoph Roderburg, Tom Luedde and Sven H. Loosen

Cancers 2022, 14(9), 2088; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14092088 - 22 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2162

Abstract

(1) Background: Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a minimally invasive procedure, characterized by the selective occlusion of tumor-feeding hepatic arteries, via injection of an embolizing agent and an anticancer drug. It represents a standard of care for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and it is [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a minimally invasive procedure, characterized by the selective occlusion of tumor-feeding hepatic arteries, via injection of an embolizing agent and an anticancer drug. It represents a standard of care for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and it is also increasingly performed in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), as well as in liver metastases. Apart from the original method, based on intra-arterial infusion of a liquid drug followed by embolization, newer particle-based TACE procedures have been introduced recently. As yet, comprehensive data on current trends of TACE, as well as its in-hospital mortality in Germany, which could help to further improve outcome following TACE, are missing. (2) Methods: Based on standardized hospital discharge data, provided by the German Federal Statistical Office from 2010 to 2019, we aimed at systematically evaluating current clinical developments and in-hospital mortality related to TACE in Germany. (3) Results: A total of 49,595 individual cases undergoing TACE were identified within the observation period. The overall in-hospital mortality was 1.00% and significantly higher in females compared to males (1.12 vs. 0.93%; p < 0.001). We identified several post-interventional complications, such as liver failure (51.49%), sepsis (33.87%), renal failure (23.9%), and liver abscess (15.87%), which were associated with a significantly increased in-hospital mortality. Moreover, in-hospital mortality significantly differed between the underlying indications for TACE (HCC: 0.83%, liver metastases: 1.22%, and CCA: 1.40%), as well as between different embolization agents (liquid embolization: 0.80%, loaded microspheres: 0.92%, spherical particles: 1.54%, and non-spherical particles: 2.84%), for which we observed large geographic differences in their frequency of use. Finally, in-hospital mortality was significantly increased in centers with a low annual TACE case volume (<15 TACE/year: 2.08% vs. >275 TACE/year: 0.45%). (4) Conclusion: Our data provide a systematic overview of indications and embolization methods for TACE in Germany. We identified a variety of factors, such as post-interventional complications, the embolization method used, and the hospitals’ annual case volume, which are associated with an increased in-hospital mortality following TACE. These data might help to further reduce the mortality of this routinely performed local-ablative procedure in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

22 pages, 1129 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advancement in Diagnosis of Biliary Tract Cancer through Pathological and Molecular Classifications

by Sang-Hoon Lee and Si Young Song

Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1761; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091761 - 1 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2213

Abstract

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs), including intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinomas, as well as gallbladder cancer, are a diverse group of cancers that exhibit unique molecular characteristics in each of their anatomic and pathological subtypes. The pathological classification of BTCs compromises distinct growth patterns, [...] Read more.

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs), including intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinomas, as well as gallbladder cancer, are a diverse group of cancers that exhibit unique molecular characteristics in each of their anatomic and pathological subtypes. The pathological classification of BTCs compromises distinct growth patterns, including mass forming, periductal infiltrating, and intraductal growing types, which can be identified through gross examination. The small-duct and large-duct types of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma have been recently introduced into the WHO classification. The presentation of typical clinical symptoms, as well as the extensive utilization of radiological, endoscopic, and molecular diagnostic methods, is thoroughly detailed in the description. To overcome the limitations of traditional tissue acquisition methods, new diagnostic modalities are being explored. The treatment landscape is also rapidly evolving owing to the emergence of distinct subgroups with unique molecular alterations and corresponding targeted therapies. Furthermore, we emphasize the crucial aspects of diagnosing BTC in practical clinical settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 2972 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Pathology of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

by Joon Hyuk Choi and Swan N. Thung

Cancers 2024, 16(8), 1537; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16081537 - 17 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3615

Abstract

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICCA) is a malignant epithelial neoplasm characterized by biliary differentiation within the liver. ICCA is molecularly heterogeneous and exhibits a broad spectrum of histopathological features. It is a highly aggressive carcinoma with high mortality and poor survival rates. ICCAs are classified [...] Read more.

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICCA) is a malignant epithelial neoplasm characterized by biliary differentiation within the liver. ICCA is molecularly heterogeneous and exhibits a broad spectrum of histopathological features. It is a highly aggressive carcinoma with high mortality and poor survival rates. ICCAs are classified into two main subtypes: the small-duct type and large-duct types. These two tumor types have different cell origins and clinicopathological features. ICCAs are characterized by numerous molecular alterations, including mutations in KRAS, TP53, IDH1/2, ARID1A, BAP1, BRAF, SAMD4, and EGFR, and FGFR2 fusion. Two main molecular subtypes—inflammation and proliferation—have been proposed. Recent advances in high-throughput assays using next-generation sequencing have improved our understanding of ICCA pathogenesis and molecular genetics. The diagnosis of ICCA poses a significant challenge for pathologists because of its varied morphologies and phenotypes. Accurate diagnosis of ICCA is essential for effective patient management and prognostic determination. This article provides an updated overview of ICCA pathology, focusing particularly on molecular features, histological subtypes, and diagnostic approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 750 KiB

Open AccessReview

Promising Highly Targeted Therapies for Cholangiocarcinoma: A Review and Future Perspectives

by Masaki Kuwatani and Naoya Sakamoto

Cancers 2023, 15(14), 3686; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15143686 - 20 Jul 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2955

Abstract

To overcome the poor prognosis of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), highly targeted therapies, such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), photodynamic therapy (PDT) with/without systemic chemotherapy, and experimental photoimmunotherapy (PIT), have been developed. Three preclinical trials have investigated the use of ADCs targeting specific antigens, namely HER2, [...] Read more.

To overcome the poor prognosis of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), highly targeted therapies, such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), photodynamic therapy (PDT) with/without systemic chemotherapy, and experimental photoimmunotherapy (PIT), have been developed. Three preclinical trials have investigated the use of ADCs targeting specific antigens, namely HER2, MUC1, and glypican-1 (GPC1), for CCA. Trastuzumab emtansine demonstrated higher antiproliferative activity in CCA cells expressing higher levels of HER2. Similarly, “staphylococcal enterotoxin A-MUC1 antibody” and “anti-GPC1 antibody-monomethyl auristatin F” conjugates showed anticancer activity. PDT is effective in areas where appropriate photosensitizers and light coexist. Its mechanism involves photosensitizer excitation and subsequent reactive oxygen species production in cancer cells upon irradiation. Hematoporphyrin derivatives, temoporfin, phthalocyanine-4, talaporfin, and chlorine e6 derivatives have mainly been used clinically and preclinically in bile duct cancer. Currently, new forms of photosensitizers with nanotechnology and novel irradiation catheters are being developed. PIT is the most novel anti-cancer therapy developed in 2011 that selectively kills targeted cancer cells using a unique photosensitizer called “IR700” conjugated with an antibody specific for cancer cells. PIT is currently in the early stages of development for identifying appropriate CCA cell targets and irradiation devices. Future human and artificial intelligence collaboration has potential for overcoming challenges related to identifying universal CCA cell targets. This could pave the way for highly targeted therapies for CCA, such as ADC, PDT, and PIT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1401 KiB

Open AccessReview

Update on Locoregional Therapies for Cholangiocellular Carcinoma

by Janna Morawitz, Nils-Martin Bruckmann, Kai Jannusch, Julian Kirchner, Gerald Antoch, Sven Loosen, Tom Luedde, Christoph Roderburg and Peter Minko

Cancers 2023, 15(8), 2368; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15082368 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1719

Abstract

Locoregional therapy options for CCA are used, in particular, for non-resectable tumors and aim to reduce tumor viability or delay tumor growth and ultimately prolong overall survival. In addition to local ablative procedures such as radiofrequency- or microwave-ablation, transarterial procedures such as transarterial [...] Read more.

Locoregional therapy options for CCA are used, in particular, for non-resectable tumors and aim to reduce tumor viability or delay tumor growth and ultimately prolong overall survival. In addition to local ablative procedures such as radiofrequency- or microwave-ablation, transarterial procedures such as transarterial embolization (TAE), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), or selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT) play a major role. In particular, in combination with advances in molecular medicine and immunotherapy, there has been a further development in the therapy of primary malignant liver tumors in recent years. In this review, we analyze data from recent studies and examine the implications for therapy of CCA, particularly with regard to the combination of locoregional therapies with modern systemic therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

26 pages, 2703 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Role of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Cholangiocarcinoma: A Systematic Review

by Guanwu Wang, Lara Rosaline Heij, Dong Liu, Edgar Dahl, Sven Arke LANG, Tom Florian Ulmer, Tom LUEDDE, Ulf Peter Neumann and Jan Bednarsch

Cancers 2022, 14(23), 5969; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14235969 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4104

Abstract

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) play an essential role in various malignancies, but their role in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the association between SNPs and CCA, focusing on tumorigenesis and prognosis. A systematic [...] Read more.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) play an essential role in various malignancies, but their role in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the association between SNPs and CCA, focusing on tumorigenesis and prognosis. A systematic literature search was carried out using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane database for the association between SNPs and CCA, including literature published between January 2000 and April 2022. This systematic review compiles 43 SNPs in 32 genes associated with CCA risk, metastatic progression and overall prognosis based on 34 studies. Susceptibility to CCA was associated with SNPs in genes related to inflammation (PTGS2/COX2, IL6, IFNG/IFN-γ, TNF/TNF-α), DNA repair (ERCC1, MTHFR, MUTYH, XRCC1, OGG1), detoxification (NAT1, NAT2 and ABCC2), enzymes (SERPINA1, GSTO1, APOBEC3A, APOBEC3B), RNA (HOTAIR) and membrane-based proteins (EGFR, GAB1, KLRK1/NKG2D). Overall oncological prognosis was also related to SNPs in eight genes (GNB3, NFE2L2/NRF2, GALNT14, EGFR, XRCC1, EZH2, GNAS, CXCR1). Our findings indicate that multiple SNPs play different roles at various stages of CCA and might serve as biomarkers guiding treatment and allowing oncological risk assessment. Considering the differences in SNP detection methods, patient ethnicity and corresponding environmental factors, more large-scale multicentric investigations are needed to fully determine the potential of SNP analysis for CCA susceptibility prediction and prognostication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Current Epidemiologic, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Aspects of Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA)

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (16 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Planned Papers

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI