Age influences chemotherapy response in astrocytomas

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Medical Oncology
• Geriatric Oncology

Background:

• Cerebral astrocytomas are primary brain tumors with variable prognosis.
• Nitrosourea-based chemotherapy is a common treatment modality for astrocytomas.
• The impact of patient age on treatment outcomes for astrocytomas requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the predictive value of age on treatment response, progression-free survival, overall survival, and complication rates in patients with cerebral astrocytomas receiving nitrosourea chemotherapy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of neuroimaging and clinical data from 148 patients with pathologically confirmed astrocytomas.
• Patients were stratified into age groups (<40, 40-59, ≥60 years) to assess age-related differences.

Main Results:

• Chemotherapy response rates were significantly lower in older age groups (≥60 years) compared to younger patients (<40 years).
• Median time to progression and overall survival were substantially shorter in patients aged 60 and older.
• The risk of myelosuppressive complications requiring hospitalization was significantly higher in patients aged 60 and older.

Conclusions:

• Age is a strong predictor of response, progression, survival, and complication risk in astrocytoma patients undergoing nitrosourea chemotherapy.
• Older patients (≥60 years) experience less benefit and a greater risk of adverse events from this treatment.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering age in treatment decisions and risk stratification for astrocytoma patients.