Hypomethylating agents in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes ( PDF 1MB )
Horizon scanning report
Myelodysplastic syndrome(s) (MDS) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare life-threatening diseases characterised by ineffective haematopoiesis leading to peripheral blood cytopenias and progressive bone marrow failure. MDS patients are a challenging treatment group, and in New Zealand, there are very limited treatment options for these patients. Recent efforts to improve quality of life and prolong survival have produced new therapeutic options which have undergone intensive testing in clinical trials. Of particular significance has been the clinical development of hypomethylating agents. This horizon scan examines the literature relating to the use of these agents in MDS and reports on the evidence relating their clinical benefit and safety.
Combined CT and SPECT (SPECT-CT) scanning in oncology ( PDF 0B )
Horizon scanning report
Over the last few years there has been an expansion in the use of combined computed tomography and single positron emission tomography (SPECT-CT) technology worldwide. This report provides a summary of the clinical utility of this technology in cancer. A description of SPECT-CT and existing comparators is provided together with the current use of SPECT-CT in oncology. Evidence of the safety and clinical effectiveness of SPECT-CT against conventional planar imaging, computed tomography, single positron emission tomography and PET-CT is examined.
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) for the initial diagnosis and staging of prostate, brain, breast and other cancers ( PDF 893kB )
Horizon scanning report
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy is not a new technology. However, despite over two decades of clinical use, this technology is still described as “experimental” in the USA and UK. This Horizon Scanning Report provides an assessment of the recent (2004-2008) literature pertaining to the clinical application of MRS in the diagnosis and staging of cancer. The most common clinical applications of MRS are in prostate, brain and breast cancer and the effectiveness of the technology for these indications is the focus in this report. The utility of MRS in “other” cancers, such as cervical and pancreatic cancer, whilst not as well studied, is also reported.
Microvolt T-wave Alternans Test ( PDF 568kB )
Horizon scanning report
There is currently no definitive prognostic tool to risk stratify patients who are suitable for implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). The microvolt t-wave alternans (MTWA) test has been suggested as one such tool that could assist decision-making on whether to implant an ICD. This Horizon Scanning Report provides an assessment of the published evidence on the safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness associated with the MTWA test. The report also considers the current state of development of the MTWA test, the potential future application of the technology, and its likely impact on the Australian and New Zealand health care systems.