Supplementary Material for: Evaluation of the Utility of in utero Treatment of Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence

<b><i>Objective:</i></b> The aim of this study is to evaluate the interest in the in utero treatment of twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). <b><i>Methods:</i></b> The obstetrical and neonatal data on all cases of TAPS followed up in our institution between 2006 and 2013 were reviewed. Statistical analyses were conducted using Bayesian methods. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Twenty cases of TAPS were included. Laser therapy or intrauterine transfusion (IUT) was performed on the donor twin in 9 cases. Eleven cases were included in the ‘nontreated' group (managed expectantly or diagnosed at birth). The gestational age at diagnosis was lower in the group with treated TAPS [difference (diff) = -22.20 days (-57.13, 14.28), probability (Pr) (diff >0) = 10.6%]. The rate of preterm premature rupture of membranes was higher in the group with treated TAPS [diff = 22.5% (-14, 57), Pr (diff >0) = 89%], but overall mortality was similar. The interval between diagnosis and delivery was longer [diff = 44.37 days (9.41, 77.90), Pr (diff >0) = 99.2%], the TAPS resolution rate was higher [diff = 49.9% (12, 81), Pr (diff >0) = 99.4%], and the neonatal transfusion rate was lower [diff = -30.5% (-60, 0), Pr (diff >0) = 2.6%] in the treated group. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> In utero treatment for TAPS is associated with a higher resolution rate of TAPS and a longer time between diagnosis and birth, but overall mortality is the same as with expectant management

Supplementary Material for: Surgical Treatment of Facial Basal Cell Carcinoma: Patient-Based Assessment of Clinical Outcome in a Prospective Cohort Study

<p><b><i>Background:</i></b> There are limited data on the esthetic, functional, and morphological outcomes of surgical treatment of facial basal cell carcinoma (BCC). <b><i>Objective:</i></b> The aim of our study was to assess the determinants of the evaluation of both the patients and the investigator of the esthetic, functional, and morphological impact of the surgical treatment of facial BCC. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A prospective observational study evaluated 111 patients treated surgically for facial BCCs (n = 135 BCCs), using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), a validated and reliable scale designed for the evaluation of all types of scars by professionals and patients. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Scar assessment rated by the patients was very good. Skin aging was associated with a better surgical outcome as evaluated by POSAS (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.09-0.98; p = 0.04). Conversely, histologically infiltrative or sclerosing BCC (OR = 2.33, 95% CI: 0.95-5.71; p = 0.06) was independently associated with poorer POSAS. In terms of the investigator's evaluation, aging signs (protective factor: OR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.04-0.73; p = 0.01), location on the H-zone of the face (risk factor: OR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.07-8.15; p = 0.03), and histologically infiltrative or sclerosing BCC (risk factor: OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.01-8.29; p = 0.04) were independently associated with POSAS. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Esthetic, functional, and morphological outcomes of facial BCC surgery provide high patient satisfaction overall. Taking wider margins requires specific measures to improve the surgical outcome.</p

Supplementary Material for: Adherence and Patients' Attitudes to Oral Anticancer Drugs: A Prospective Series of 201 Patients Focusing on Targeted Therapies

<b><i>Objectives:</i></b> Patient adherence is a challenge in oncology and hematology practice. Hormone therapy data in breast cancer suggest insufficient adherence and poor persistence. Limited data are available for targeted therapies (TT) including tyrosine kinase and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We performed a prospective survey using a 15-item questionnaire in patients with solid tumors and hematologic malignancies receiving oral anticancer therapy. Treatment duration, setting (adjuvant vs. metastatic), cancer type, age, and comedication were recorded. <b><i>Results:</i></b> 201 patients (median age 65.5 years) participated, 102 with TT and 99 with hormone therapy or chemotherapy (HC). The median time of drug intake was 11.0 months. Written information was more frequently given to TT patients (68.6 vs. 23.2%, p < 0.0001). TT and HC patients showed equal adherence to therapy (72.5 vs. 69.6%, p = n.s.) despite TT patients experiencing more side effects (p < 0.0001) and taking more concomitant oral medication (p = 0.0042). Forgotten doses were the leading cause of nonadherence in HC patients (83%, as compared to 54% in the TT group), whereas dose reduction by the patient was higher in the TT group (32 vs. 17%). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Despite advances in providing information to patients leading to better adherence among TT patients, efforts towards better patient education are warranted including dedicated staff for monitoring outpatient anticancer oral therapy