Cancer Reports

Our medical research library holds 9 studies published in Cancer Reports (2018–2026). Each entry links to the study's record on PubMed and, where there is one, to the publisher's page and a free full text. 9 have an abstract, the authors' own summary as PubMed records it: open "Abstract" to read it.

About the journal

• Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Inc
• Published: 2018 to the present, United States
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2573-8348 (electronic)
• Its record in the NLM Catalog

2020s

• Efficacy of Nivolumab in Chemotherapy-Resistant Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis Testis: A Case Report. H. Koyanagi, T. Kawahara, N. Inagawa, et al. 2026;9(8):e70647. Case report PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis is a rare neoplasm, accounting for less than 1% of all mesothelioma cases. Due to the rarity of this disease, a standard treatment has not been established. Clinical management is generally adapted from the strategies used for pleural mesothelioma. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated efficacy in treating pleural mesothelioma, their role in mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis remains uncharacterized due to a lack of evidence. This is the first report documenting a clinical response to nivolumab in chemoresistant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis.

  Case: A 71-year-old man presented with painless left scrotal swelling and was initially diagnosed with a hydrocele at the referring hospital. One year later, hydrocelectomy revealed partial thickening of the tunica without malignancy. A subsequent magnetic resonance imaging analysis revealed a new intratesticular nodule. Orchiectomy was performed, and the pathological findings revealed an epithelioid mesothelioma. He was referred to Tsukuba University Hospital for further treatment. He also had a history of Self-Defense Force service, which suggested possible asbestos exposure. Imaging revealed pelvic lymphadenopathy with fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the right external iliac lymph nodes. He received four cycles of cisplatin and pemetrexed every 3 weeks, resulting in stable disease. Bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection was performed and confirmed the presence of metastatic mesothelioma. Nine months after the surgery, bilateral inguinal lymph node recurrence occurred, and he received cisplatin monotherapy because of renal impairment. Despite four additional cycles of cisplatin monotherapy, the disease progressed. Therefore, chemotherapy was discontinued, and nivolumab was administered. Nivolumab resulted in sustained tumor shrinkage. However, after 3 months of treatment, he developed immune-related encephalitis requiring corticosteroid therapy and nivolumab discontinuation. After 16 months of nivolumab initiation, he was dead from the disease.

  Conclusion: This is the first report documenting the clinical response of a chemoresistant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis to nivolumab. ICIs are a promising treatment option for this rare and challenging disease.

  © 2026 The Author(s). Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• Genetic and Immunohistochemical Profiling of Malignant Mesothelioma With Brain Metastasis: A Report of Two Cases. P.M. Harary, Y.S. Hori, R. Jain, et al. 2026;9(5):e70571. Case report PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Brain metastasis (BM) occurs in < 3% of malignant mesothelioma (MM) cases and is associated with an aggressive disease course. While genomic profiling has provided insight into molecular alterations in MM, the characteristics of MM with brain involvement remain unexplored. Data are particularly limited for MM of pericardial origin, an exceedingly rare tumor which comprises < 1% of mesotheliomas.

  Cases: We describe the clinical course and genetic profiles of two patients with BM from MM, both of whom exhibited atypical presentations, including neurological symptoms, diagnosis at extremes of age for this condition, and absence of prior asbestos exposure. In Case 1, a 20-25-year-old male with pericardial MM presented for left arm shaking, with brain MRI at this time revealing 14 total lesions, 85.7% of which had vasogenic edema. He underwent whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT), passing away 21.25 months following initial diagnosis. In Case 2, an 85-90-year-old male reported expressive aphasia and was found to have a large hemorrhagic frontotemporal lesion. He was subsequently diagnosed with pleural MM and received stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for management of BM, with a favorable treatment response on follow-up imaging. He succumbed to systemic progression 6 months after diagnosis of BM. Next-generation sequencing identified a missense mutation in RAD51C in Case 1, and NF2 splice-site and TP53 frameshift mutations in Case 2.

  Conclusion: To our knowledge, this represents the first reported genetic profiling of MM with BM. The TP53 frameshift mutation is unusual for MM, and its potential association with rapid disease progression warrants further investigation. Given the aggressive nature of MM, SRS may be preferable to WBRT due to its shorter treatment time and ease of combination with systemic regimens.

  © 2026 The Author(s). Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• Integrative Bioinformatics and Machine Learning Approaches for Biomarker and Pathway Discovery in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. M.L. Rohman, S. Biswas. 2026;9(10). PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly aggressive thoracic cancer with limited treatment options and poor prognosis.

  Aims: This study employed an integrative transcriptomic and computational approach to uncover potential biomarkers for MPM.

  Methods: Gene expression data from the GSE51024 dataset, comprising 41 normal and 55 MPM tumor samples, were preprocessed using the robust multiarray average (RMA) method. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the Limma package and Wilcoxon rank tests. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed significant gene modules using topological overlap and preservation statistics, followed by functional annotation through Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses.

  Results: Hub genes within conserved modules (MM > 0.8) were identified, including ZNF638, RAB18, SOS1, TTC17, RANBP2, FNDC3B, QSER1, CLDN15, PSTPIP1, SEPTIN6, ADAP2, and PVRIG. Survival analysis validated their prognostic relevance using public databases. Furthermore, high classification accuracy was achieved using various machine learning algorithms (SVM, PLDA, XGB, K-NN, and logistic regression), confirming the discriminative potential of the hub genes. The results highlighted several physiologically significant hub genes and pathways associated with cell cycle regulation, immune modulation, and cancer progression.

  Conclusion: Overall, this exploratory study demonstrated that potential biomarkers in MPM can be effectively identified using an integrative systems biology and machine learning framework. The identified hub genes may support future diagnostic, prognostic, and personalized treatment strategies for patients with MPM.

  © 2026 The Author(s). Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• Extrapleural pneumonectomy for sarcoma: Outcomes of adult patients at a specialized center. B.Y. Zhang, A.R. Wilson-Smith, E.A. Connolly, et al. 2024;7(4):e2065. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) is a complex surgical procedure involving en-bloc resection of the parietal and visceral pleura, lung, pericardium, and ipsilateral diaphragm. Small case series of pleural-based sarcoma of predominantly pediatric patients suggest EPP may be a life-prolonging surgical option. We aimed to describe the characteristics and outcomes of adults who underwent EPP at a specialized sarcoma center.

  Methods: Clinicopathologic variables, surgical details, and follow-up information were extracted for patients undergoing EPP for pleural-based sarcoma between August 2017 and December 2020. Primary outcomes were event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) from the date of EPP. Secondary outcomes were disease-free interval (DFI) prior to EPP, and early and late postoperative complications.

  Results: Eight patients were identified, seven with soft tissue sarcoma and one with bone sarcoma. Patients had either localized disease with a primary thoracic sarcoma, sarcoma recurrent to the thorax, or de novo metastatic disease. All patients underwent resection of their pleural-based sarcoma by an experienced cardiothoracic surgeon, and some patients had pre or postoperative treatment. The perioperative morbidity was comparable with previously published reports of EPP performed in mesothelioma patients. At median follow-up of 22.5 months, median EFS was 6.0 months and OS was 20.7 months. Six patients (75%) had disease recurrence; five (62.5%) died of progressive disease. Two patients (25%) had not recurred: one died of a radiation-related esophageal rupture, and one was alive with no evidence of disease at 37.0 months. Characteristics of those with the longest EFS included low-grade histology and achieving a metabolic response to preoperative chemotherapy.

  Conclusions: In adults with pleural-based sarcoma, EPP is rarely curative but appears to be a feasible salvage procedure when performed at specialized centers. Patient selection is critical with strong consideration given to multimodal therapy to optimize patient outcomes. In the absence of a confirmed response to neoadjuvant treatment, long term survival is poor and EPP should not be recommended.

  © 2024 The Authors. Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• Immunotherapy-Induced Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Causing Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Case Report and Review of Current Guidelines. P. Disterhaft, C. Kerr, D. Barnett, et al. 2024;7(11):e70058. Case report · Review PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are becoming more frequently used in the treatment of many types of malignant cancers by disinhibiting T-cell activation, which promotes the destruction of cancer cells. This disinhibition can also result in autoimmune conditions, like endocrinopathies.

  Case: We report a case of a 78-year-old male patient with malignant mesothelioma treated with combination ICI therapy who presented with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with no history of diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit and treated with intravenous (IV) fluid repletion and IV insulin for DKA. The patient was diagnosed with new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) induced by ICI therapy.

  Discussion: Approximately 75% of patients diagnosed with ICI-induced T1DM initially present with DKA. This, along with the rapid onset of hyperglycemia in this patient, suggests current guidelines for monitoring blood glucose are inadequate. Current guidelines recommend monitoring blood glucose at the following times: baseline, at the initiation of each cycle for 12 weeks, and then every 3-6 weeks thereafter. We propose the following schedule for monitoring blood glucose in patients receiving ICI therapy: baseline, twice weekly for the first six cycles, and then once weekly thereafter. This proposed update is supported by our patient's rapid onset of hyperglycemia and other case reports and reviews showing that most patients with this diagnosis have an initial presentation of DKA. Detecting hyperglycemia and starting treatment early is important in the prevention of acute complications from uncontrolled T1DM, like DKA.

  Conclusion: This case adds to the existing body of literature and provides support for more frequent monitoring of blood glucose in patients receiving ICI therapy. Blood glucose monitoring is a simple, reliable, low risk, and inexpensive laboratory test that should be used in patients receiving ICI therapy to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment of T1DM.

  © 2024 The Author(s). Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• JAK Inhibitor Upadacitinib Induces Remission in Refractory Immune-Related Colitis Triggered by CTLA-4 and PD-1 Inhibitor Combination Therapy in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: A Case Report. M. Kono, Y. Komeda, H. Kawakami, et al. 2024;7(10):e70032. Case report PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy against various cancers; however, there is a rising incidence of immune-related colitis. Some cases of immune-related colitis prove resistant to treatment, even with the administration of glucocorticoids or infliximab, and there is currently no established standard treatment for such cases.

  Case: The patient, a 73-year-old male, had undergone combination therapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma for 2 years, utilizing both ipilimumab (a CTLA-4 inhibitor) and nivolumab (a PD-1 inhibitor). Unfortunately, the treatment led to side effects, specifically immune-related adverse event (irAE) enterocolitis. Steroid and infliximab treatment failed to improve the patient's condition. Treatment with tacrolimus was attempted, but the patient remained unresponsive. Subsequently, 45 mg of upadacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, was administered. Symptoms improved rapidly following upadacitinib administration, and endoscopy also revealed positive results. With the increasing incidence of immune-related colitis, some patients have become resistant to treatment with glucocorticoids and infliximab. In this case, the irAE enterocolitis was improved by upadacitinib administration.

  Conclusion: In cases where immune-related colitis proves resistant to treatment with glucocorticoids, infliximab, or tacrolimus, upadacitinib represents a potential option as a JAK inhibitor.

  © 2024 The Author(s). Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• Safe performance of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients with HIV infection. A. Coghill, J. Sanchez, S. Sinha, et al. 2022;5(10):e1667. Case report PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Patients with HIV (PHIV) are living longer with the adoption of anti-retroviral therapy. As such, more patients are presenting with advanced cancer diagnoses, including peritoneal surface malignancies. The objective of this study was to assess the safety of CRS/HIPEC in this cohort of patients.

  Case: Five PHIV were identified, four of whom underwent CRS/HIPEC. Primary sites of disease were low-grade appendiceal mucinous tumors in three patients and peritoneal mesothelioma in the other. Operative time ranged from 7 to 14 h. One patient developed a Clavien grade II complication postoperatively. There was no instance of neutropenia identified. One patient died of disease 19 months after surgery; the remaining three patients are alive 11, 21, and 33 months postoperatively.

  Conclusion: This study demonstrates that CRS/HIPEC can be performed in PHIV without prohibitive complications and operative recovery approximates that of non-HIV patients. Though more study is needed, HIV should not preclude a patient from being offered CRS/HIPEC.

  © 2022 The Authors. Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

• Treatment patterns and outcomes in older patients with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma: Analyses of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare data. M.D. Danese, M. Daumont, E. Nwokeji, et al. 2022;5(9):e1568. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Background: Malignant mesothelioma is a rare neoplasm associated with asbestos exposure. Characterizing treatment patterns and outcomes of older patients with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is important to understand the unmet needs of this population.

  Aim: To evaluate the demographic and clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes among older patients diagnosed with advanced MPM in the United States between 2007 and 2013.

  Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data linked with Medicare claims. We included patients who were age 66 or older at the time of their primary MPM diagnosis between 2007 and 2013 and followed them through 2014. Treated patients who received first-line chemotherapy with pemetrexed and platinum within 90 days of diagnosis, second-line, or third-line therapy were identified for evaluation of outcomes.

  Results: There were 666 older patients with advanced MPM, of whom 82% were male, 87% White, 78% stage IV, and 70% had no mobility limitation indicators at diagnosis. There were 262 patients who received first-line chemotherapy for advanced MPM, most of whom (80%; n = 209) received pemetrexed-platinum. Of these 209 patients, 41% (n = 86) initiated second-line therapy, and 26% (n = 22) initiated third-line therapy. Median overall survival for the cohort of 209 patients was 7.2 months. Patients with epithelioid histology had better median overall survival (12.2 months) compared with other histologies (4.4-5.6 months). Within 90 days of diagnosis of advanced MPM, 78% of patients were hospitalized, 52% visited an emergency department, and 21% had hospice care. The 2-year cost of care was over $100 000 for all patients with advanced MPM treated with first-line pemetrexed-platinum.

  Conclusions: Although first-line systemic anticancer treatment was generally consistent with guidelines (e.g., pemetrexed-platinum), poor patient outcomes highlight the need for effective treatment options for older patients with advanced MPM.

  © 2021 The Authors. Cancer Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

2010s

• Clinical study of asbestos-related lung cancer diagnosed by asbestos medical examination. T. Yotsumoto, A. Sano, T. Fukuda. 2018;1(3):e1124. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  Abstract

  Aim: People with occupational exposure to asbestos demonstrate a high incidence of lung cancer. Asbestos medical examination for those at risk was implemented as a national policy in Japan. This study aimed to characterize patients with asbestos-related lung cancer who were diagnosed by these examinations.

  Methods: We retrospectively investigated 120 individuals exposed to asbestos who were examined from 2008 to 2016 at our institution. Clinical data, including CT findings and time-related exposure variables, were evaluated. Each asbestos-related change was assigned 1 point if present, and the scores were compared between patients with and without asbestos-related lung cancer using the Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher's exact test.

  Results: Five patients were diagnosed with lung cancer, and four underwent surgical treatment. At the time of writing, three of four operated patients were alive without recurrence, with a similar prognosis to patients with lung cancer unrelated to asbestos. Average scores for asbestos-related findings on CT Scan were 1.8 (9/5) for patients with lung cancer and 0.79 (91/115) for those without lung cancer.

  Conclusion: Patients with lung cancer had significantly more asbestos-related changes on CT scan than those without lung cancer. Concurrent calcified plaque and interstitial changes might be a predictor of lung cancer incidence. Although further investigation with a larger study group is needed, regular medical examination and CT scan every 6 months might contribute to the early detection of lung cancer with asbestos-related changes on CT.

  © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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