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Akbulut S, Hargura AS, Garzali IU, Aloun A, Colak C. Clinical presentation, management, screening and surveillance for colorectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:9228-9240. [PMID: 36159422 PMCID: PMC9477669 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i26.9228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Management of colorectal cancer (CRC) was severely affected by the changes implemented during the pandemic, and this resulted in delayed elective presentation, increased emergency presentation, reduced screening and delayed definitive therapy. This review was conducted to analyze the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on management of CRC and to identify the changes made in order to adapt to the pandemic. We performed a literature search in PubMed, Medline, Index Medicus, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Reference Citation Analysis (https://www.referencecitationanalysis.com/) and Google Scholar using the following keywords in various combinations: Colorectal cancer, elective surgery, emergency surgery, stage upgrading, screening, surveillance and the COVID-19 pandemic. Only studies published in English were included. To curtail the spread of COVID-19 infection, there were modifications made in the management of CRC. Screening was limited to high risk individuals, and the screening tests of choice during the pandemic were fecal occult blood test, fecal immunochemical test and stool DNA testing. The use of capsule colonoscopy and open access colonoscopy was also encouraged. Blood-based tests like serum methylated septin 9 were also encouraged for screening of CRC during the pandemic. The presentation of CRC was also affected by the pandemic with more patients presenting with emergencies like obstruction and perforation. Stage migration was also observed during the pandemic with more patients presenting with more advanced tumors. The operative therapy of CRC was altered by the pandemic as more emergencies surgeries were done, which may require exteriorization by stoma. This was to reduce the morbidity associated with anastomosis and encourage early discharge from the hospital. There was also an initial reduction in laparoscopic surgical procedures due to the fear of aerosols and COVID-19 infection. As we gradually come out of the pandemic, we should remember the lessons learned and continue to apply them even after the pandemic passes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Akbulut
- Department of Surgery, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya 44280, Turkey
- Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya 44280, Turkey
| | - Abdirahman Sakulen Hargura
- Department of Surgery, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya 44280, Turkey
- Department of Surgery, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Ibrahim Umar Garzali
- Department of Surgery, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya 44280, Turkey
- Department of Surgery, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano 700101, Nigeria
| | - Ali Aloun
- Department of Surgery, King Hussein Medical Center, Amman 11855, Jordan
| | - Cemil Colak
- Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya 44280, Turkey
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Banerjee
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Manju George
- COLONTOWN/Paltown Development Foundation, Crownsville, MD
| | - Arjun Gupta
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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3
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Mukherji R, Marshall JL. Lessons Learned in Managing Patients with Colorectal Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2021; 22:93. [PMID: 34424418 PMCID: PMC8381863 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-021-00888-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to rapidly and dramatically shift our medical priorities and decision making. With little literature or experience to rely on, the initial priority was to minimize patient exposure to the hospital and to others. It remains unclear whether cancer patients are at higher risk of infection or serious complications, or if it is our traditional therapies that place them to be at higher risk. By far, the greatest negative impact was on screening. Routine colonoscopies were considered elective, and as a result, delays in diagnosis will be felt for years to come. The most positive changes were the incorporation of tele-visits, increased use of oral therapies, alterations in treatment schedules of both chemotherapy and radiation, and an increased emphasis on neoadjuvant therapy. These too will be felt for years to come. The colorectal cancer medical community has responded collaboratively and effectively to maintain treatment and to optimize outcomes for our patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetu Mukherji
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - John L Marshall
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
- Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Road, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
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Siavashpour Z, Goharpey N, Mobasheri M. Radiotherapy based management during Covid-19 pandemic - A systematic review of presented consensus and guidelines. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 164:103402. [PMID: 34214608 PMCID: PMC8242203 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment management of cancer patients in the radiation oncology departments during the current COVID-19 pandemic is challenging. A systematic review of published consensus/guidelines on the role of radiotherapy prioritization, suggested treatment protocols, and set up management was undertaken based on the PRISMA protocol and through PubMed/PMC, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science databases until 01/20/2021. One hundred and sixty-eight publications or regional consensus were included. Summary of recommendations contained: (1) using hypo-fractionated (Hypo-F) regimens for therapeutic/palliative indications, (2) delaying radiotherapy for several weeks or until pandemic over, (3) omitting radiotherapy by replacement of alternative therapies or active surveillance, (4) applying safer patients' setup and preparation protocols, (5) developing telemedicine/telehealth service. To conclude, it is essential to carefully weigh the risk of exposure to COVID-19 infection and the benefit of treating cancer patients during the pandemic. Trying to have a global guideline facing this or any other probable crisis is crucial for health care service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Siavashpour
- Radiotherapy Oncology Department, Shohada-e Tajrish Educational Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Neda Goharpey
- Radiotherapy Oncology Department, Shohada-e Tajrish Educational Hospital, Tehran, Iran.
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Alam W, Bouferraa Y, Haibe Y, Mukherji D, Shamseddine A. Management of colorectal cancer in the era of COVID-19: Challenges and suggestions. Sci Prog 2021; 104:368504211010626. [PMID: 33878982 PMCID: PMC10358474 DOI: 10.1177/00368504211010626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic had a huge impact on all sectors around the world. In particular, the healthcare system has been subject to an enormous pressure that has surpassed its ability in many instances. Additionally, the pandemic has called for a review of our daily medical practices, including our approach to colorectal cancer management where treatment puts patients at high risk of virus exposure. Given their higher median age, patients are at an increased risk for severe symptoms and complications in cases of infection, especially in the setting of immunosuppression. Therefore, a review of the routine colorectal cancer practices is needed to minimize risk of exposure. Oncologists should weigh risk of exposure versus the patient's oncologic benefits when approaching management. In addition, treatment protocols should be modified to minimize hospital visits and admissions while maintaining the same treatment efficacy. In this review, we will focus on challenges that colorectal cancer patients face during the pandemic, while highlighting the priority in each case. We will also discuss the evidence for potential modifications to existing treatment plans that could reduce infectious exposure without compromising care. Finally, we will discuss the impact of the socio-economic difficulties faced by Lebanese patients due to a poor economy toppled by an unexpected pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid Alam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youssef Bouferraa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Yolla Haibe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Deborah Mukherji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Shamseddine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Sasi S, Singh S, Walia T, Meena RC, Thakur S. Role of MicroRNA In Situ Hybridization in Colon Cancer Diagnosis. COLON CANCER DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY 2021:67-89. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-63369-1_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2025]
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Lewis S, Talapatra K. Radiotherapy management of rectal cancer in the backdrop of the COVID pandemic. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2020; 4:e1320. [PMID: 33295140 PMCID: PMC7883038 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID‐19 outbreak was declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Over the last 3 months, the pandemic has challenged the diagnosis and treatment of all cancer, including rectal cancer. Constraints in resources call for a change in the treatment strategy without compromising efficacy. Recent Findings Delivery of shorter treatment schedules for radiotherapy offers advantages like short overall treatment time, improved throughput on the machine, improved compliance and reduced risk of transmission of COVID 19. Other strategies include delaying surgery, reducing the intensity of chemotherapy and adoption of organ preservation approach. Conclusion The curative treatment of rectal cancer should not be hindered during the COVID pandemic, and modifications in the multi‐modality treatment will help achieve quality care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Lewis
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Kaustav Talapatra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, India
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Alemrajabi M, Moradi M, Amiri E, Vahdani M. Therapeutic challenges in colorectal surgery practice during COVID-19 outbreak: a case series. COLORECTAL CANCER 2020. [PMCID: PMC7488721 DOI: 10.2217/crc-2020-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
After the outbreak of COVID-19, several issues in the field of general surgery have remained unknown. Here we present two consecutive patients operated on in a coronavirus center in February 2020, during the outbreak in Tehran, Iran. Moreover, we highlight some challenges surgeons face in the management of these patients during the outbreak. We suggest surgeons to perform the safest technique with the least risk. In borderline conditions, it is suggested to prefer stoma over anastomosis. This lessens the course of hospitalization and probable complication rates. We suggest establishing clean centers and prepare guidelines for the general surgery team members to lessen the risk for patients and healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Alemrajabi
- Assistant Professor of Colorectal Surgery, FCRDC, Firoozgar Hospital, IUMS, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Moradi
- Resident of General Surgery, FCRDC, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Esmail Amiri
- Resident of General Surgery, FCRDC, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Vahdani
- General Practitioner, Shaded Faculty of Medicine, Tehran, Iran
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Constantinou C, Kolokotroni O, Mosquera M, Heraclides A, Demetriou C, Karayiannis P, Quattrocchi A, Charalambous A. Developing a holistic contingency plan: Challenges and dilemmas for cancer patients during the COVID-19. Cancer Med 2020; 9:6082-6092. [PMID: 32687677 PMCID: PMC7405276 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
During the first quarter of 2020 the world is experiencing a pandemic of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a novel beta coronavirus that is responsible for the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The COVID-19 pandemic revealed that healthcare systems around the world were not prepared to deal with either the direct effects of the pandemic or with the indirect effects that are imposed on the health of patients with chronic disorders such as cancer patients. Some challenges and dilemmas currently faced during the pandemic include the management of cancer patients during the treatment and follow-up phases, the assessment of the safety of treatments currently used for the management of SARS-CoV-2 for use in cancer patients, the development of psychoeducation and emotional support for cancer patients and the safe conduct of clinical trials involving participation of cancer patients. Evidence from the literature supports the need for the urgent development of a holistic contingency plan which will include clear guidelines for the protection and comprehensive care of cancer patients. The implementation of such a plan is expected to have many beneficial effects by mainly minimizing the increased morbidity and mortality of cancer patients that could result as an adverse consequence of the COVID-19 or future pandemics.
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Zaniboni A, Petrelli F, Labianca R. Risk-Benefit Comparisons Between Shorter and Longer Durations of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in High-Risk Stage II Colorectal Cancer—Reply. JAMA Oncol 2020; 6:1302-1303. [DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2020.2262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fausto Petrelli
- Medical Oncology Unit, Medical Science Department, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio (BG), Italy
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11
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O’Connor JM, Esteso F, Chacón M. Official French SARS-CoV-2 guidelines for cancer patients, a triage solution with precision medicine. COLORECTAL CANCER 2020; 9:CRC21. [PMID: 33014141 PMCID: PMC7524005 DOI: 10.2217/crc-2020-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Federico Esteso
- Instituto Alexander Fleming, 1180 Crámer St., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matías Chacón
- Instituto Alexander Fleming, 1180 Crámer St., Buenos Aires, Argentina
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