Utilization and toxicity patterns of 2-weekly (Q2W) versus 4-weekly (Q4W) nivolumab for treatment of adjuvant and metastatic melanoma at BC cancer.

Background: Nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor used to treat several malignancies, is associated with immune-related adverse events (IrAEs). Original dosing for melanoma was 3 mg/kg (maximum 240 mg) every 2 weeks (Q2W). Based on simulation studies depicting similar efficacy and toxicity to original dosing, extended interval dosing of 6 mg/kg (maximum 480 mg) every 4 weeks (Q4W) was introduced.

Real-world incidence of venetoclax toxicities in British Columbia.

Introduction: Venetoclax is used to treat relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (r/r CLL). Tumour lysis syndrome (TLS) is a serious toxicity associated with venetoclax, and real-world studies suggest that the incidence may be higher than in clinical trials. The purpose of this study is to describe the incidence of venetoclax toxicities in British Columbia (BC).

Long-term outcomes of R-CEOP show curative potential in patients with DLBCL and a contraindication to anthracyclines.

Doxorubicin plays an integral role in the treatment of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) but can be associated with significant toxicity. Treatment guidelines of British Columbia (BC) Cancer recommend the substitution of etoposide for doxorubicin in standard-dose R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) (R-CEOP) for patients who have a contraindication to anthracyclines; however, it is unknown if this compromises treatment outcome. We identified all patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL who were treated in BC with curative intent with R-CEOP (n = 70) within the study period.

A real-world data approach to determine the optimal dosing strategy for pembrolizumab.

Introduction: Cancer drug therapy costs continue to rise and threaten the sustainability of Canada's public healthcare system. Previous studies have calculated potential savings utilizing different dosing regimens of cancer treatments. Our objectives were to determine the financial impact of drug wastage and to explore cost-effective dosing regimens for pembrolizumab.

Evaluation of the role of pharmacy technicians in reviewing the eligibility for Oncotype DX genomic test and the impact of the test on treatment plans in breast cancer patients.

Purpose/objectives: The Oncotype DX genomic test is a treatment decision-making tool. Test results are presented as recurrence scores which are used to help decide between adjuvant hormonal therapy (low recurrence score) or chemotherapy (high recurrence score). Since 2014, the Oncotype DX test has been funded at the cancer treatment centres in our province for patients with early breast cancer.

Efficacy of bevacizumab and temozolomide therapy in locally advanced, recurrent, and metastatic malignant solitary fibrous tumour: A population-based analysis.

Background: Patients with locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic solitary fibrous tumour are often treated with bevacizumab and temozolomide based on the clinical efficacy reported in a case series of 14 patients. Given the rarity of solitary fibrous tumour, large trials are not feasible. We report the efficacy of this regimen based on a population-based analysis.

Outcomes of Surgical and Chemotherapeutic Treatments of Goblet Cell Carcinoid Tumors of the Appendix.

Background: Goblet cell carcinoids (GCCs) of the appendix are rare mucinous neoplasms, for which optimal therapy is poorly described. We examined prognostic clinical and treatment factors in a population-based cohort.

Methods: Patients diagnosed with GCC from 1984 to 2014 were identified from the British Columbia Cancer Agency and the Vancouver Lower Mainland Pathology Archive.

Clinical effectiveness of bevacizumab in patients with recurrent brain tumours: A population-based evaluation.

Background Bevacizumab is an antiangiogenic agent active in patients with recurrent malignant gliomas. However, evidence for its clinical efficacy is relatively limited so that bevacizumab is approved for this indication in Canada and the United States, but not in the European Union. We reviewed the effectiveness of bevacizumab in patients with recurrent brain tumour using a large population database.

Adherence with capecitabine: A population-based analysis based on prescription refill data.

Background Patient adherence is important with the increasing use of oral anticancer drugs. Recent studies reported different capecitabine adherence rates based on self-reporting and microelectronic monitoring of the medication bottle. Patient's awareness of being monitored may confound these results.