20 Disparities in survival for patients with glioblastoma multiforme

Abstract

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain cancer in adults. Recent efforts have elucidated genetic features of tumor cells and thus enhanced our knowledge of GBM pathophysiology. The most recent clinical trials report median overall survival between 14 and 20 months. However, real-world outcomes are quite variable and there is a paucity of data within the literature. Methods: Three hundred seventy two GBM patients were diagnosed in the province of British Columbia between January 2013 and January 2015. We have performed a retrospective review on the survival outcomes of the 278 patients who underwent surgical resection as part of the initial treatment. Results: Our results indicate a median age of 61.8y at time of diagnosis with a slight preponderance of males. The median overall survival was 10 months for patients who underwent surgery. As expected, patients over the age of 65 and those with worse initial Karnofsy Performance Status (KPS) scores had a poorer prognosis. Moreover, we have found extent of resection (EOR), treatment strategies and treatment location affect overall survival. Conclusion: The present study highlights factors which affect patient survival after surgery in British Columbia. Our outcomes are slightly worse than survival reported in the US. Variability in pathologic classification and in treatment strategy likely contribute to this difference. Further efforts should ensure access to the gold-standard of care.