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To report the interim findings of an audit of the outcomes of sentinel node (SN) biopsy performed as a replacement for groin node dissection in women with early stage vulvar cancer in routine clinical practice in Australia and New Zealand.A prospective multi-center study in 8 participating centers. Eligible patients had squamous cell carcinomas clinically restricted to the vulva4 cm in diameter. SN procedures and pathological assessment were to be performed in accordance with the methods published by the GROINSS-V collaboration [1].130 women with apparent early stage vulvar cancer were enrolled. Seventeen women subsequently did not meet the eligibility criteria and were excluded. SNs were identified in 111/113 of the remaining women. Twenty-two women had positive nodes. Sixteen of these women had at least 12 months follow up and 7 (44%) had recurrent disease. Eighty-nine women had only negative nodes. Seventy-four of these women had at least 12 months follow up and 6 (8%) had recurrent disease (including 2 [2.7%] with recurrence in the groin). On subsequent review of the two women with negative SNs who had groin recurrences, it was found that the recommended pathology protocol had not been followed. In both cases, SN metastases were identified following serial sectioning of the nodes.SN biopsy is feasible in routine clinical practice. However, undetected metastases in a removed SN may be associated with groin recurrence. To ensure patient safety, strict adherence to the pathology protocol is an essential component in the utilization of the sentinel lymph node technique in vulvar cancer.

A number of retrospective and prospective studies have documented substantial rates of regression in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 lesions in young women. Initial observational management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 is increasingly accepted as appropriate for women under 25 years of age with screen-detected abnormalities and is included in a number of clinical guidelines. However, there has been a paucity of large prospective studies on observational management with strict inclusion criteria. A number of important questions remain, specifically regarding the clinical variables that are associated with the risk of progression or persistence of disease. To investigate these factors and to ensure that young women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 undergoing observational management were being managed in a well-monitored and an appropriately informed fashion, we conducted a large, multicenter prospective study on observational management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 in women under 25 years.This study aimed to determine the regression rates and clinical, cytologic, and pathologic predictors of regression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 in women under 25 years undergoing observational management over 24 months.This study was a multicenter prospective study on observational management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (ie, repeat colposcopy, cytology, and cervical biopsy every 6 months) for up to 24 months. A total of 615 consenting women under 25 years with newly-diagnosed, biopsy-proven cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 were recruited (from 2010 to 2016) through 16 hospital-based colposcopy units in New Zealand and Australia.At completion, 326 women had confirmed regression, 156 had persistent high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or 3 or adenocarcinoma in situ, and 24 had unconfirmed regression (ie, first regression at the 24-month follow-up). A total of 109 women did not complete the protocol (41 because of delayed follow-up, 41 lost to follow-up, 22 elected treatment, 4 refused a biopsy, and 1 died of an unrelated cause). Confirmed regression was observed in 53% (326 of 615) of all women enrolled in the study and, when missing data were imputed, it was estimated that 64% of women (95% confidence interval, 60%-68%) would have experienced regression. Similarly, lesions regressed in 64% (326 of 506) of women who completed the observational protocol. Based on a multivariable analysis, detection of human papillomavirus 16 in a liquid-based cytology sample at the time of initial colposcopy decreased the chance of regression by 31% (risk ratio, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.56-0.86; P.001). In addition, at initial colposcopy, low-grade or normal colposcopic impression, later year of diagnosis, low-grade or normal cytology, and being a nonsmoker were all independently associated with an increased chance of regression.More than half of women under 25 years with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 will regress to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 or normal within 24 months without destructive treatment. The absence of human papillomavirus 16 is the most important predictor of regression.

Simple Summary We investigated the influence of genetic variants, called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the TP53 tumour suppressor gene, on cancer risk, clinical features and TP53 isoform levels. These SNPs were significantly over-represented in cohorts of mixed cancers versus controls, suggesting they confer increased cancer risk. Heterozygosity at rs1042522(GC) and either of the two SNPs rs9895829(TC) and rs2909430(AG) confer up to a 5-fold greater risk of developing cancer. The SNP combinations were associated with high Δ133TP53 and TP53β messenger RNA levels, elevated infiltrating immune cells and shorter patient survival for glioblastoma and prostate cancer. The data suggest that ∆133p53β protein levels are increased by the SNPs resulting in increased inflammation which contributes to more aggressive cancers. Abstract We investigated the influence of selected TP53 SNPs in exon 4 and intron 4 on cancer risk, clinicopathological features and expression of TP53 isoforms. The intron 4 SNPs were significantly over-represented in cohorts of mixed cancers compared to three ethnically matched controls, suggesting they confer increased cancer risk. Further analysis showed that heterozygosity at rs1042522(GC) and either of the two intronic SNPs rs9895829(TC) and rs2909430(AG) confer a 2.34–5.35-fold greater risk of developing cancer. These SNP combinations were found to be associated with shorter patient survival for glioblastoma and prostate cancer. Additionally, these SNPs were associated with tumor-promoting inflammation as evidenced by high levels of infiltrating immune cells and expression of the Δ133TP53 and TP53β transcripts. We propose that these SNP combinations allow increased expression of the Δ133p53 isoforms to promote the recruitment of immune cells that create an immunosuppressive environment leading to cancer progression.

Background: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a prevalent long-term condition secondary to cancer treatment. BCRL impacts physical function, psychological health, and quality of life for p...

Objectives This study aimed to determine the feasibility of conducting a full scale randomized controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of low level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, used in addition to conventional therapy, for managing breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL). Materials and methods Patients with BCRL were recruited from the Southern District Health Board (New Zealand) via lymphedema therapists' referrals, and randomly allocated into either the laser group, which received BCRL conventional therapy (e.g., wearing compression garments, massage therapy, and/or exercise) plus a 6-week LLLT (PBM) intervention program (wavelength: 980/810 nm (80:20 ratio); output power: 500 mW beam spot size: 5 cm2 ; irradiance: 100 mW/cm2 ; treatment time per area: 1 minute dosage per area treated: 30J (6J/cm2 ); 10 points of treatment from axilla to wrist total LLLT (PBM) treatment time: 10 minutes total dosage delivered: 300 J), or the control group, which received BCRL conventional therapy alone. Feasibility was determined by recruitment and randomization rates, retention of participants and treatment protocol adherence, and was assessed during the recruiting and intervention periods. Data on participant satisfaction and adverse reactions of LLLT (PBM) were collected on completion of this study. Clinical outcomes (i.e., limb circumference, participant's perceived symptoms, psychological impacts, and activity disability) were assessed at baseline, and 6 and 12 weeks post-randomization. Results Over a 6-month recruitment window, 17 participants with BCRL were recruited in the study, and randomized into the two groups (recruitment rate of 81%, and randomization rate of 100%). Treatment adherence was high in the laser group (88.9% of participants completed all treatments). Retention rates were 88.9% for the laser group and 100% for the control group at both 6 and 12 weeks post-randomization. All participants who completed LLLT (PBM) treatment indicated that they were satisfied with the treatment. No serious adverse reactions were reported in this study. Clinical outcomes failed to show additional benefits of LLLT (PBM) intervention. Conclusion This study demonstrated that it is feasible to conduct a fully powered RCT to definitively test the effectiveness of the additional use of LLLT (PBM) in the management of BCRL. For such a trial, 114 participants will be needed at baseline. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:924-932, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

We investigated the influence of selected TP53 SNPs in exon 4 and intron 4 on cancer risk, clinicopathological features and expression of TP53 isoforms. The intron 4 SNPs were significantly over-represented in cohorts of mixed cancers compared to three ethnically matched controls, suggesting they confer increased cancer risk. Further analysis showed that heterozygosity at rs1042522(GC) and either of the two intronic SNPs rs9895829(TC) and rs2909430(AG) confer a 2.34&ndash, 5.35-fold greater risk of developing cancer. These SNP combinations were found to be associated with shorter patient survival for glioblastoma and prostate cancer. Additionally, these SNPs were associated with tumor-promoting inflammation as evidenced by high levels of infiltrating immune cells and expression of the &Delta, 133TP53 and TP53&beta, transcripts. We propose that these SNP combinations allow increased expression of the &Delta, 133p53 isoforms to promote the recruitment of immune cells that create an immunosuppressive environment leading to cancer progression.

Background A high rate of regression in young women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 has been recorded. However, there is little prospective data by which to evaluate management guidelines. Objective This study evaluates the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology recommendations for follow up of young women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 using data created by a large prospective multicentre study of observational management. Study Design Participants were 616 women under 25 years with biopsy-diagnosed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 following a referral to colposcopy for an abnormal smear with no previous high grade abnormality. The protocol included colposcopy, cytology, and colposcopically-directed biopsy at the initial visit and at 6 and 12 month follow-ups visits and these data were analysed. Histology from the corresponding cervical biopsy was treated as the reference diagnostic test. For young women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2, we aimed to determine; (1) the ability of colposcopy to identify women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3 or worse at 6 months and (2) the ability of a) colposcopy, b) cytology, and c) the combination of cytology and colposcopy to identify residual high grade abnormalities at 12 months. In addition, although not specified in the guidelines, we investigated the ability of high risk human papillomavirus positivity alone or with cytology as a co-test to identify residual high grade abnormalities at 12 months. Results At 6 months, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3+ colposcopic appearance identified only 28% (95% confidence interval 18, 40%) of women diagnosed with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3. At 12 months, a high grade colposcopic appearance only identified 58% (95% confidence interval 48, 68%) of women with residual histological cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 or 3. At 12 months, high grade cytology only identified 58% (95% confidence interval 48, 68%) of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 or 3. However, the combination of either high grade cytology or colposcopic appearance proved substantially more sensitive (81%, 95% confidence interval 72, 88%). High risk human papillomavirus positivity at 12 months was a sensitive (96%, 95% confidence interval 89, 99%) indicator of persisting high grade histology. However, this sensitivity came at the expense of specificity (52%, 95% confidence interval 45, 58%). A co-test of high risk human papillomavirus positivity or high grade cytology at 12 months, provided a high sensitivity (97%, 95% confidence interval 90, 99%), but low specificity (51%, 95% confidence interval 45, 58%). Conclusion Colposcopy and cytology are limited in their ability to exclude persistent high grade abnormality for young women undergoing observational management for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2. We recommend biopsy for all women at 12 months. High risk human papillomavirus positivity is a sensitive indicator of persistent abnormality and should be considered in those not having a biopsy.

To determine the proportion of eligible patients with high-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary, fallopian tube or peritoneum discussed at gynaecological oncology multidisciplinary meetings (MDMs) in New Zealand and subsequently referred for genetic counselling and BRCA pathogenic variant testing.Eligible cases were identified from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin gynaecologic oncology MDM databases between 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2016. Patients who met the eligibility criteria for genetics referral were identified, and cross-referenced against genetic services databases to ascertain the rates of referrals received, the numbers attending appointments, genetic testing offered and range of results.During the two-year period, 205 patients were eligible for referral. Of these, 143 (70%) patients were referred for genetic counselling with 128 (90%) of this group recommended for BRCA pathogenic variant testing. Of the 126 who undertook the test, results were available for 120 (95%). Nineteen patients (16%) tested positive for a germline BRCA pathogenic variant.The New Zealand rate of referral to genetic counselling for women with high-grade serous cancer, (HGSC), of the ovary, fallopian tube or peritoneum diagnosed between 2015-2016 is encouraging when compared with others internationally. The rate of BRCA positive pathogenic variants is comparable to international data.

In 2008, a quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (genotypes 6, 11, 16, 18) became available in New Zealand. This study investigated whether the proportion of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2) lesions associated with HPV genotypes 16 and 18 changed over time in young women recruited to a prospective CIN2 observational management trial (PRINCess) between 2013 and 2016. Partial HPV genotyping (16, 18, or other high risk HPV) was undertaken on n = 392 women under 25 years (mean age 21.8, range 17–24) with biopsy-diagnosed CIN2. High risk HPV genotypes were detected in 96% of women with CIN2 lesions. Between 2013 and 2016, the proportion of women whose liquid-based cytology samples were HPV 16 or 18 positive decreased from 43% to 13%. HPV vaccination status was known for 78% of women. Between 2013 and 2016, the proportion of HPV 16/18 positivity did not significantly change in HPV-vaccinated women, but decreased from 66% to 17% in unvaccinated women. The reducing proportion of HPV 16/18-related CIN2 in our cohort of young New Zealand women may be attributable to the introduction of a national HPV vaccination program. The substantial decrease in HPV 16/18 positivity observed in unvaccinated women is likely to be due to a herd effect., Highlights • 392 women under 25 years with CIN2 lesions were recruited between 2013 and 2016. • HPV16/18 positivity decreased from 43% of women in 2013–13% in 2016. • In vaccinated women, HPV16/18 positivity decreased from 17% in 2013 to 9% in 2016. • In unvaccinated women, HPV16/18 positivity decreased from 66% in 2013 to 17% in 2016. • Decreasing HPV16/18-related CIN2 may be due to HPV vaccination and herd effect.

Breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) is prevalent among breast cancer survivors, and may be painful and disfiguring with associated psychological impact. Previous research shows increasing use of low level laser therapy (LLLT), now commonly referred to as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy for managing BCRL, in countries including the United States and Australia. However, conclusions were limited by the paucity, heterogeneity, and poor quality of previous studies. LLLT (PBM) has been barely used in clinical practice in New Zealand, and no clinical studies on LLLT (PBM) for BCRL have been conducted in this country. In order to promote this potentially useful treatment modality for BCRL patients, the Laser Lymphedema Trial Team at the University of Otago conducted a program to assess the effectiveness of LLLT (PBM) in management of BCRL. The program comprises three phases including a systematic review (completed), a feasibility study (completed), and a full-scale randomized controlled trial (proposed). This current paper provides an update on the program. Based upon the systematic review, LLLT (PBM) is considered a potentially effective treatment approach for women with BCRL; the review also indicated the need for further research including exploration of the relevance of dosage and other LLLT (PBM) parameters. The feasibility study demonstrated that it is feasible to conduct a fully powered RCT to definitively test the effectiveness of the additional use of LLLT (PBM) in the management of BCRL, and 114 participants will be needed at baseline in the main study. Currently, the full-scale RCT is under preparation.

Background Breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) is a prevalent complication secondary to cancer treatments which significantly impacts the physical and psychological health of breast cancer survivors. Previous research shows increasing use of low level laser therapy (LLLT), now commonly referred to as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, for BCRL. This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of LLLT (PBM) in the management of BCRL. Methods Clinical trials were searched in PubMed, AMED, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure up to November 2016. Two reviewers independently assessed the methodological quality and adequacy of LLLT (PBM) in these clinical trials. Primary outcome measures were limb circumference/volume, and secondary outcomes included pain intensity and range of motion. Because data were clinically heterogeneous, best evidence synthesis was performed. Results Eleven clinical trials were identified, of which seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were chosen for analysis. Overall, the methodological quality of included RCTs was high, whereas the reporting of treatment parameters was poor. Results indicated that there is strong evidence (three high quality trials) showing LLLT (PBM) was more effective than sham treatment for limb circumference/volume reduction at a short-term follow-up. There is moderate evidence (one high quality trial) indicating that LLLT (PBM) was more effective than sham laser for short-term pain relief, and limited evidence (one low quality trial) that LLLT (PBM) was more effective than no treatment for decreasing limb swelling at short-term follow-up. Conclusions Based upon the current systematic review, LLLT (PBM) may be considered an effective treatment approach for women with BCRL. Due to the limited numbers of published trials available, there is a clear need for well-designed high-quality trials in this area. The optimal treatment parameters for clinical application have yet to be elucidated. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-017-3852-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background Breast cancer patients experience various side effects during cancer therapy, often resulting in reduced quality of life and poor adherence to treatment. A limited range of proven interventions has been developed to target such side effects. While Tai Chi offers benefits for the health and well-being of breast cancer survivors, the effectiveness of Tai Chi across the treatment continuum has not been evaluated. Improved patient education and support has been suggested as a priority for breast cancer care. This pilot study assesses the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of “an integrative Tai Chi” (ANITA) program for breast cancer patients undergoing cancer therapy. Methods/design This is a single-centre, two-arm feasibility RCT. Twenty-four patients with breast cancer who have undergone surgical treatment will be recruited from the Dunedin Hospital (New Zealand) over a 12-month period (from August 2017 to July 2018). Subject to informed consent, patients will be randomized to receive standard cancer treatment alone or standard cancer treatment plus the ANITA program, consisting of peer support, health education, and Tai Chi Ruler exercise. The program runs alongside the patient’s adjuvant cancer therapy, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, antibody treatment, and/or antihormonal therapy. Analysis in this study will focus on process evaluation of participant recruitment, retention, treatment fidelity, acceptability of the program, and occurrence of adverse events. Clinical outcomes (i.e., fatigue, sleep quality, anxiety and depression and quality of life) will be assessed at baseline, and at 12 weeks and 24 weeks post-randomization. Discussion Outcomes from this study will inform the feasibility and methodology for a future fully-powered RCT. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry with the identifier ACTRN12617000975392.

Due to the increased numbers of caesarean sections in the last decade, women with a caesarean section scar in pregnancy are becoming more commonly diagnosed using ultrasound. One of the rare but more severe complications of this is an implantation of the pregnancy in the caesarean section scar.

We present the rationale and methods for PRINCess-a multicenter prospective trial-which aims to determine outcome and predictors of regression in a large cohort of women younger than 25 years with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN 2) undergoing observational management.Six hundred women younger than 25 years with newly diagnosed biopsy-proven CIN 2 are being recruited to observational management (i.e., repeat colposcopy, cytology, and cervical biopsy every 6 months for 2 years). Five hundred fifty-two women from throughout New Zealand and 1 site in Australia have been recruited so far. Measures include histology, cytology, human papillomavirus genotyping, and immunohistochemical staining. Women who develop CIN 3 will be treated with large loop excision of the transformation zone. The primary outcomes are rates of clinical regression of CIN 2 (i.e., 2 consecutive colposcopy follow-ups showing CIN 1 or normal), loss to follow-up, and progression to invasion.The optimal treatment for young women with a diagnosis of CIN 2 is controversial. Although many undergo surgical treatment, observational management is increasingly recommended. However, there is little evidence from large clinical trials of the safety and practicality of observational management of young women with CIN 2. When completed, we will have adequate evidence by which to counsel women regarding their likely outcomes and to offer advice on clinical follow-up protocols.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy can increase the rate of breast-conserving surgery in patients with operable breast cancer. However, uncertainty remains regarding surgical procedures and predictors for successful breast-conserving surgery.This study was an analysis of surgical data of a representative data subset of 607 patients enrolled in the GEPARDUO study. This prospective, multicenter, phase III study randomly assigned patients with operable breast cancer (or = 2 cm) to neoadjuvant 8-week dose-dense doxorubicin plus docetaxel or a 24-week schedule of doxorubicin plus cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel (AC-DOC).Breast conservation was attempted in 493 (81.2%) patients, but 43 patients eventually required mastectomy, thus resulting in a breast-conserving surgery rate of 74.1%. Breast-conserving re-excision was performed in 61 patients (12.4%). Factors associated with a significantly higher breast-conserving surgery rate were a prechemotherapy tumor sizeor = 40 mm, nonlobular histological characteristics, treatment with AC-DOC, clinical response, postchemotherapy tumor sizeor = 20 mm, and treatment in a larger center (10 enrolled patients). Nonlobular histological characteristics and intraoperative frozen-section analysis for margin evaluation were associated with significantly lower reoperation rates (P = .015).Breast conservation after neoadjuvant chemotherapy is feasible in most patients with operable breast cancer. For surgical planning, tumor characteristics and response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy should be taken into account. Improved breast-imaging modalities are necessary to improve detection of residual disease after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, especially when breast cancer is of lobular invasive histology. Margin assessment by intraoperative frozen-section analysis is helpful to avoid reoperation. To achieve an optimal result, an interdisciplinary surgical approach is important.

Objective Conservative management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 2 in women younger than 25 years may reduce overtreatment. However, long-term efficacy remains uncertain. This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the rate of recurrence of high-grade abnormalities among young women with a history of CIN 2 that spontaneously regressed within 2 years and compare this with the rate of high-grade abnormality in similar women with an initial diagnosis of CIN 1. Study Design We identified all women aged younger than 25 years who were diagnosed with CIN 1 or CIN 2 between January 2005 and August 2009 within 2 colposcopy units. Follow-up data from the National Cervical Screening Programme were obtained to identify those women who developed recurrent high-grade lesions before October 2012. Comparisons were made using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results A total of 683 women were included: 106 with CIN 2 that spontaneously regressed, 299 with treated CIN 2, and 278 with conservatively managed CIN 1. Median follow-up was 4 years. There was no significant difference in the risk of development of high-grade abnormalities after 2 years between the spontaneously regressing CIN 2 and CIN 1 groups ( P = .83). Women with treated CIN 2 had a significantly lower risk of recurrence than women with untreated CIN 2 ( P = .01). Conclusion CIN 2 that has spontaneously regressed appears to behave as a low-grade lesion. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence that careful observation of CIN 2 is an efficacious and appropriate initial management option for women aged younger than 25 years at diagnosis.

To quantify time taken for patients diagnosed and treated for endometrial cancer in Dunedin Hospital in context of Ministry of Health New Zealand (MoHNZ) best practice indicators for cancer diagnosis and treatment, and to identify factors which could potentially cause delays if present.Retrospective audit was carried out based on patients discussed at a Gynaecology-Oncology Multi-Disciplinary Meeting (GOMDM) at Dunedin Hospital during 2008-2011 for primary endometrial cancer. Median time taken between referral dates, first specialist appointment, date of histological diagnosis, staging scan, date when patients were waitlisted for surgery, and date of first treatment were calculated. Possible factors which could contribute to delay if present were identified and further explored.44 eligible patients were identified. Compared to MoHNZ recommendations delays were present from initial referral to first treatment (93 days actual timeframe vs. 62 days recommended timeframe) and some delays present from initial referral to first specialist assessment (21 days vs. 14 days), with only 20% and 32% of patients being seen and treated within the best practice timeframes respectively. Patients were treated within the recommended time once they were wait-listed for first definitive treatment (19 days vs. 31 days) with 75% of patients being treated within the recommended timeframe. Waiting time for hysteroscopy and dilatation and curettage was seen to contribute towards considerably longer delays in diagnosis and treatment of endometrial cancers. Other potential factors contributing to delay identified were patients not attending clinic appointments and difficulty in obtaining a conclusive histological sample through pipelle biopsy at the initial clinic visit.Currently the practice in Dunedin Hospital does not meet the planned MoHNZ standards, and significant changes in practice and reallocation of resource will be required to meet the MOH standards for women with endometrial cancer. Training of General Practitioners in pipelle biopsy, better patient education about post-menopausal bleeding, reducing the time taken for radiological scans, and expediting referrals to the first specialist appointment and hysteroscopy for patients with high suspicion, could reduce delays.

Background At present, the combination of docetaxel/doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (TAC) is considered a treatment option for patients with node-positive primary breast cancer; however, treatment is associated with grade 1–4 anemia in up to 95% of patients (grade 2–4 in 36%). Patients and Methods We prospectively investigated the use of a primary prophylaxis with darbepoetin alfa once every 3 weeks in 35 patients receiving 6–8 cycles of TAC as neoadjuvant treatment for breast cancer. Darbepoetin alfa treatment was started on day 1 of a TAC cycle if hemoglobin (Hb) level was ≤ 14 g/dL. The dose was adapted to 9 μg/kg if Hb level was ≤ 13 g/dL on day 21 of the previous cycle, to 4.5 μg/kg if Hb level was between 13 g/dL and 14 g/dL, and was discontinued if Hb level increased to ≥ 14 g/dL. The primary aim was to prevent Hb levels ≤ 12 g/dL before surgery. Results During 112 (50.2%) and 93 (41.7%) of 223 cycles, 4.5 μg/kg and 9 μg/kg of darbepoetin alfa were given, respectively. The dose was decreased from 9 μg/kg to 4.5 μg/kg in 21 patients (60%) and in 28 cycles (12.4%). Treatment was discontinued because of Hb levels > 14 g/dL in 12 patients (34.3%) and in 13 cycles (5.4%). Hemoglobin level on day 21 of the last cycle was ≤ 12 g/dL in 4 patients (11.4%). Eighteen patients (51.4%) during 36 cycles (16.1%) showed Hb levels ≤ 12 g/dL throughout treatment. No National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria grade 2–4 anemia was observed. Symptoms of fatigue (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Anemia) decreased slightly throughout treatment. Conclusion Anemia during TAC chemotherapy can be avoided by a single injection of darbepoetin alfa every 3 weeks.

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the necessary cause of cervical cancer. Published data on the epidemiology of HPV in women with invasive cervical cancer (ICC) in New Zealand (NZ) are limited. This cross-sectional study investigated the distribution of high-risk and low-risk HPV types in cervical specimens collected from women throughout NZ who had been diagnosed with ICC between 2004 and 2010. Methods Women aged ≥18 years, with ICC International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage Ib or greater were identified from the five tertiary public hospitals in NZ regularly treating women with ICC. Women were enrolled in the study only after obtaining informed consent. Stored, formalin fixed, paraffin-embedded cervical specimens were retrieved and histopathologically reviewed to confirm the diagnosis of ICC. Cervical specimens were tested for HPV using polymerase chain reaction-short fragment10; HPV DNA was detected using DNA enzyme immunoassay and typed by reverse hybridization line probe assay. Results 242 women were enrolled and ICC was histologically confirmed in 227 samples. HPV infection was detected in 88.5% (n = 201; 95% CI: 83.7–92.4) of women with ICC; high-risk HPV types were detected in 87.2% of women. The most commonly detected HPV types were HPV-16 (51.1%) and HPV-18 (20.7%), followed by HPV-31 (4.0%), HPV-45 and HPV-52 (3.1% each). Overall, HPV distribution was highest (94.3%) in women aged 30–39 years at diagnosis and a higher distribution of HPV-16 (68.8%) was observed in women younger than 30 years. The overall distribution of HPV types between Maori and non-Maori women were similar. HPV-positive women with ICC stage II or greater were less likely to be infected with HPV-16/18 (P = 0.002) or HPV-18 (P = 0.029) compared with the other high-risk types. Single type infection and multiple infections were detected in 93.5% and 5.5% of women, respectively. Conclusions HPV-16, HPV-18, HPV-31, HPV-45 and HPV-52 were the most commonly detected high-risk HPV types. Findings from the study fill an important data gap on HPV type distribution from NZ which will help facilitate better understanding of the epidemiology of HPV in NZ women. Clinical trial registration NCT01328028.