3 research outputs found
Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis
Desmoid tumors represent a rare entity of monoclonal origin characterized by locally aggressive behavior and inability to metastasize. Most cases present in a sporadic pattern and are characterized by a mutation in the CTNNB1 gene; while 5–15% show a hereditary pattern associated with APC gene mutation, both resulting in abnormal β-catenin accumulation within the cell. The most common sites of presentation are the extremities and the thoracic wall, whereas FAP associated cases present intra-abdominally or in the abdominal wall. Histopathological diagnosis is mandatory, and evaluation is guided with imaging studies ranging from ultrasound, computed tomography or magnetic resonance. Current approaches advocate for an initial active surveillance period due to the stabilization and even regression capacity of desmoid tumors. For progressive, symptomatic, or disabling cases, systemic treatment, radiotherapy or surgery may be used. This is a narrative review of this uncommon disease; we present current knowledge about molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment
Sarcoma European & Latin American Network (SELNET) recommendations on prioritization in sarcoma care during covidâ19 pandemic
Background
COVIDâ19 outbreak has resulted in collision between SARSâCoVâ2âinfected patients and cancer patients on different fronts. Serious SARSâCoVâ2 cases overwhelmed hospital capacity, especially in intensive care units, causing a domino effect, displacing areas from their primary use. Cancer patient has been impacted by deferral, modification or even cessation of therapy. Adaptive measures to minimize hospital exposure, following the precautionary principle have been proposed for cancer care during COVIDâ19 era. We present here a consensus on prioritizing recommendations across the continuum of sarcoma patient care.
Material and methods
A total of 125 recommendations were proposed in softâtissue, bone and visceral sarcoma care. Recommendations were assigned as higherâ or lowerâpriority if they cannot or can be postponed at least 2â3 months, respectively. The consensus level for each recommendation was classified as âstrongly recommendedâ (SR) if more than 90% of experts agreed, ârecommendedâ (R) if 75â90% of experts agreed and âno consensusâ (NC) if fewer than 75% agreed. Sarcoma experts from 11 countries within the SELNET consortium participated, including countries in the Americas and Europe. The ESMOâMagnitude of clinical benefit scale was applied to systemicâtreatment recommendations to support prioritization.
Results
There were 80 SR, 35 R and 10 NC among the 125 recommendations issued and completed by 31 multidisciplinary sarcoma experts. The consensus was higher among the 75 higherâpriority recommendations (85%, 12% and 3% for SR, R and NC, respectively) than in the 50 lowerâpriority recommendations (32%, 52% and 16% for SR, R and NC, respectively).
Conclusion
The consensus on 115 of 125 recommendations indicates a highâlevel of convergence among experts. The SELNET consensus provides a tool for sarcoma multidisciplinary treatment committees during the COVIDâ19 outbreak. The details of different recommendations and the distinction between two priority levels enables a practical approach for both LatinâAmerican and other healthâcare providers, and sarcoma expert centres.
Implications for Practice
SELNET consensus on sarcoma prioritization care during the COVIDâ19 era, issued 125 pragmatical recommendations distributed as higher or lower priority, to protect critical decisions on sarcoma care during COVIDâ19 pandemic. A multidisciplinary team from 11 countries, including countries in the Americas and Europe, reached consensus on 115 recommendations. The consensus was lower among lowerâpriority recommendations, which shows reticence to postpone actions even in indolent tumors. The ESMOâmagnitude of clinical benefit scale was applied as support for prioritizing systemic treatment. Consensus on 115 of 125 recommendations indicates a highâlevel of convergence among experts. The SELNET consensus provides a practice tool for the guidance in the decisions of sarcoma multidisciplinary treatment committees during the COVIDâ19 outbreak.Peer reviewe