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Predicting metastasis from primary tumor size

A new mathematical model predicts the presence of undetectable metastases based on primary tumor size, which is associated with a poorer prognosis. The model accurately reflects clinical study data for several cancer types, highlighting the potential dangers of delays in surgery for smaller tumors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 21, 2019

Primary pancreatic organoid tumor models for high-throughput phenotypic drug screening

Researchers have developed primary pancreatic organoid tumor models using magnetic nanoparticle assembly, enabling high-throughput phenotypic drug screening. These 3D structures allow for the testing of drug-like molecules against patient-derived cancer cells, providing insights into potential patient outcomes.

Survival has improved for women with stage IV breast cancer

A study of over 20,000 women with stage IV breast cancer found improved survival rates, especially among those who received initial breast surgery. The median survival increased from 20 to 26 months, and age, tumor size, hormone receptor status, and year of diagnosis were associated with prolonged survival.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 2, 2015

Early stage NSCLC patients with low tumor metabolic activity have longer survival

Researchers found that patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and low tumor metabolic activity have increased overall survival. A diagnostic test using fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG/PET) can help identify patients who may benefit from post-surgical chemotherapy.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMar 30, 2015

Tumor location in colorectal cancer may influence survival

A recent study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that tumor location in colorectal cancer may influence survival. Patients with left-sided primary tumors had better survival outcomes than those with right-sided tumors, suggesting potential differences in gene expression patterns and cancer biology.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 24, 2015

Photodynamic therapy against cancer

Researchers found that photodynamic therapy can eliminate tumor-associated lymphatic vessels and in-transit tumor cells, reducing metastasis. This approach could be combined with existing surgical techniques to destroy lymphatic vessels draining from tumors.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2011

JNCI news brief: Breast cancer hormone receptor status and risk of a second primary tumor

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found women with hormone receptor-negative first tumors have twice the risk of developing a second breast cancer compared to those with HR-positive tumors. The research also identified a five-fold increase in risk of a second hormone-receptor negative breast cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 9, 2009

Study identifies risk factors for multiple melanoma skin cancer

A study of 4,484 patients with first primary melanomas found that 8.6% had multiple primary melanomas, with a higher risk for those with family history or dysplastic nevi. The estimated cumulative 5-year risk of a second primary tumor was 11.4%, with a significant increase in incidence for the development of third primary melanoma.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 4, 2005

UCSF study finds genetic link between initial early stage breast cancer cells and disease recurrences

A recent study by UCSF researchers has found a strong genetic link between early stage, non-invasive breast cancer cells and disease recurrences. The study suggests that second tumors are caused by residual cells left over from the primary lesion, highlighting the importance of wide surgical margins to prevent recurrence.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 14, 2000

Study reveals microscopic interaction of cancer cells and blood vessels in tumor formation

Researchers documented the earliest steps of tumor formation in mice and rats, showing that cancer cells can grow new blood vessels when just hundreds are present. The study suggests that angiogenesis inhibitors might be useful at the earliest stages of tumor development to prevent recurrence and spread.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 17, 2000