bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hormonal and Receptor Status in Postmenopausal Women with Endometrial Carcinoma before and after Treatment with Tamoxifen
Authors: Luciani Luciano , Oriana Saro , Spatti Gianbattista , Secreto Giorgio , Recchione Camilla , Grignoglio Egle , Andreola Salvatore , Coradini Danila , Ronchi Enrico , Di Fronzo Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Twenty-four patients with endometrial carcinoma received tamoxifen (Nolvadex) for 7 days. Before and after administration, circulating hormones (estradiol, testosterone, progesterone, gonadotropins FSH and LH) were evaluated. Estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PgR) in neoplastic tissue were also assayed. Our results show a net increase in PgR content and a signicant decrease in gonadotropin levels after the treatment. The authors suggest that clinical trials be conducted using tamoxifen and progestins for adjuvant therapy after surgery of endometrial carcinoma and for the therapeutic approach of advanced carcinoma.
Early Glottic Cancer: Surgery or Radiation Therapy?
Authors: Lippi Lippo , del Maso Maurizio , Celiai Enrico , Olmi Patrizia
Published: April 2018

From 1970 to 1979 at the University Otorhinolaryngological Clinic, at the Radiology Institute of the University and at the Radiation Therapy Department of the Hospital of Florence, 385 early glottic cancers were treated: 300 by surgery and 85 with radiation therapy as the primary therapy. The policy of treatment in this period was in most cases surgery; those patients who could not be operated were treated with radiation therapy. The local control actuarial rates at 5 years were 85 %, 70 % and 65 % for the T1a, T1b and T2 patients treated by surgery, and 86 %, 83 % and 57 % for those treated with radiation therapy. Considering the surgical salvage, the actuarial results at 5 years were 95 %, 86 % and 71 % for the group treated by surgery, and 86 %, 90 % and 69 % for the one treated with radiotherapy. The crude results at 3 and 5 years with an analysis of failures according to treatment modalities are also reported. In our experience, cordectomy can be the treatment of choice in T1a glottic cancer, whereas radiation therapy offers better results in the T1b forms. Tratment policy is more questionable in the T2 cases.
Interaction of Calcium Ions and Camp on the Cytotoxic Effect of Doxorubicin
Authors: Di Marco Aurelio , Dasdia Teresa , Pastori Wilma
Published: April 2018

Doxorubicin tested at the concentration of 1–2 × 10−7 M inhibited the cloning efficiency of MS2T cells following 22 and 48 h exposure in complete medium. In the same experimental conditions the [3H]thymidine incorporation was practically unaffected. The inhibitory effect of doxorubicin on cloning efficiency appeared to be directly related with the serum concentration. In fact, this effect became more marked when the cloning efficiency was stimulated by increasing serum concentration in the cultural medium. However, this effect did not seem to be Ca2+dependent. Similarly doxorubicin displayed a strong inhibitory effect, when the proliferative activity was stimulated by an optimal combination of cAMP and low Ca2+. On the contrary the inhibitory effect of doxorubicin was markedly reduced when the Ca2+ concentration reached the physiological value. These results confirm the direct correlation of the killing effect of doxorubicin with proliferative activity of the cells.
Ischemic Cardiopathy from CIS-Diamminedichloroplatinum (CDDP)
Authors: Tomirotti Maurizio , Riundi Romeo , Pillici Sergio , Ungaro Antonio , Pedretti Donata , Villa Silvia , Scanni Alberto
Published: April 2018

The authors report a case of ischemic cardiopathy that occured during therapy with CDDP in a woman with an ovarian cancer which had been extensively pre-treated with adriamycin.
Urinary Hydroxyproline in Multiple Myeloma: Correlation with Clinical Stages and Bone Disease
Authors: Bolzonella Sandro , Paccagnella Adriano , Salvagno Luigi , Sileni Vanna Chiarion , De Besi Pietro , Scalella Paola , Fiorentino Mario V.
Published: April 2018

Twenty-four-hour urinary hydroxyproline excretion (HOP) (normal values: 6–22 mg/day/m2) was measured by the Hypronosticon test in 50 untreated patients with plasma cell myeloma. At diagnosis, HOP was elevated in 36 of 50 patients (72 %) with a mean value of 35.9 mg/day/m2. Extent of bone lesions and clinical stage were accurately assessed in all patients. Higher HOP values were found in patients with a higher degree of bone lesions (multiple lytic areas and/or destruction of skeletal segments). According to clinical stages, HOP was very elevated only in stage III (mean value: 43.7); in stages I and II the mean value (25.2) was just above the normal range. Our data indicate that HOP in multiple myeloma at diagnosis is closely related to the extension of skeletal lesions and that during the clinical course it may be useful in the follow-up of bone disease.
Surgical or Radiosurgical Failures on Cervical Lymph Nodes in Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Basso-Ricci Sante , de Yoldi Gianfranco Coopmans , de Flaviis Luca , Milani Franco , Danesini Gian Maria
Published: April 2018

From a series of 850 patients with head and neck carcinoma and subjected to lymph node dissection, 80 cases of recurrences in the neck have been collected. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed only in cases with metastatic extranodal spread. Of these recurrences, 56 occurred in the area of lymph node dissection, 7 were marginal and 17 were contralateral. The recurrences occurred prevalently in node-positive (N +) patients (70 of 80). The incidence of recurrences in the dissection area was 41.6 % (25 of 60) in cases with metastatic extranodal spread, despite postoperative radiotherapy. The incidence of recurrences in cases with clinically evident metastases at the time of dissection but without extranodal spread and not subjected to postoperative radiotherapy was relatively high (24.1 %, or 28 of 116). Since recurrences occurred, despite postoperative radiotherapy, in a relatively high percentage of cases with carcinoma of the oral floor and of the tongue (59.1 % and 50 %, respectively), it seems justifiable to perform preoperative radiation treatment in cases with clinically evident metastatic lymph nodes. As regards marginal recurrences, which all occurred in patients with carcinoma of the oral floor, it is considered sufficient to extend the surgical treatment to the subhyoid region. The high incidence of contralateral recurrences, which occurred mainly in patients with carcinoma of the larynx (13 of 17), shows the usefulness of radiation treatment of the contralateral region of the neck in these tumors, when dissection is limited to only one side of the neck.
Ineffectiveness of 5-Fluorouracil and Cis-Platin as Second-Line Chemotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Merlano Marco , Conte Pier Franco , Tatarek Rita , Scarsi Pietro , Barbieri Angelo , Benedetti Gabriella , Rosso Riccardo
Published: April 2018

Seventeen patients with heavily pretreated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were submitted to a combination of 5-fluorouracil, 500 mg/m2 on days 1–4, and cis-platin, 50 mg/m2 on day 5, repeated every 21 days. Before administration of 5-fluorouracil, N5,N10-methyl-tetrahydrofolate, 200 mg/m2 i.v., was given. Only 1 partial response and 4 stable disease were observed, and the median survival of the entire group was 5 months. Although all patients had been heavily pretreated and a considerable percentage (6/17, 35.2 %) of these showed resistance to first-line therapy, this combination seems to be ineffective as second-line therapy in head and neck cancer.
Psychological Status before and after Surgery for Breast Cancer
Authors: Capovilla E.D. , Colotti P. , Fiorentino M.V.
Published: April 2018

A psychological study of 80 patients undergoing mastectomy showed that the preoperative period is more affected with anxiety, that the patients need communication to remove the anxious state, and that disclosure of the diagnosis should always be accompanied by an understanding interview that includes a clear and moderately optimistic evaluation of the consequences, plans for the future, involvement of the partner and other relatives. Physician and psychologist should share this task to inform the patient and help the patient's psychological reaction towards a constructive cooperation for treatment and rehabilitation.
Tumor-Associated Antigens in Female Genital Tract Cancers
Authors: Harlozinska Antonina , Kula Józef , Stepinska Barbara , Jelen Michal , Richter Roman
Published: April 2018

The immunologic reactivity of glycoprotein antigens extractable from individual, histologically different ovarian and uterine cancers was studied taking into account their relationship with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), nonspecific cross-reacting antigen (NCA), α-fetoprotein (AFP), and α-1-antichymotrypsin. All studies were performed using specific immune sera against perchloric acid (PCA) extracts of ovarian mucinous cystadenocarcinoma (anti-PCA-CaOm) and cervical squamous cell carcinoma (anti-PCA-CaCx), and antisera against the reference antigens mentioned above. A considerable antigenic heterogeneity and the existence of several immunologically related antigenic systems were found: 1) CEA-like antigens; 2) NCA-type antigens; 3) an antigen different from CEA and NCA present in ovarian mucinous adenocarcinomas and often cross-reacting, but not identical with respective antigens of uterine body and cervical carcinomas; 4) an antigen reacting with anti-α-1-antichymotrypsin serum; and 5) an antigen reacting with anti-AFP serum.
Phase II Evaluation of 4'EPI-Doxorubicin in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Ferrazzi Eros , Pappagallo Giovanni L. , Nicoletta Ornella , Fornasiero Adriano , Refarti Franca , Cartel Giuseppe , Vinante Orazio , Fiorentino Mario V.
Published: April 2018

Thirty-four evaluable patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma (13 rectal primary and 21 colonic primary, 4 pretreated and 30 untreated) received 4'epi-doxorubicin at the dose of 75 mg/m2 i.v. once every 21 days, for a minimum of 2 courses. Symptomatic toxicity (mainly confined to gastrointestinal complaints) was short-lived and easily managed. Hematologic toxicity was mild. Transient electrocardiographic abnormalities were found in 50 % of patients, without signs of significant cumulative cardiotoxicity. Three previously untreated patients achieved a partial response (lasting 16, 12 and 12 weeks, respectively) with a response rate of 9 % (3 % - 23 %, 95 % confidence interval). More interestingly, all responsive patients had rectal cancer: further studies of 4'epi-doxorubicin confined to the rectal localization seem warranted.
Cooperative Effect of Exogenous Heparin-Like Compounds and Secreted Glucocorticoid-Induced Inhibitor on Plasminogen Activator in 3T3 Cell Cultures
Authors: Chiarugi Vincenzo P. , Fibbi Gabriella , Del Rosso Mario , Ruggiero Marco , Pasquali Franca , Viti Michele , Vannucchi Simonetta
Published: April 2018

Balb/c 3T3 cultures grown in the absence of serum release both plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor in the culture medium. Cellular transformation with SV-40 virus increased the level of the activator, whereas dexamethasone increased the level of the inhibitor. Heparin added to the medium potentiated the glucocorticoid-induced inhibitory activity, strongly decreasing or completely abolishing the activity of plasminogen activator. Heparin sulfate showed similar effects to heparin, although at higher concentrations. It is suggested that heparin-like compounds are involved in the regulation of plasminogen activator, acting as inhibitory cofactors.
Effect of Tween 80 on Adriamycin Cytotoxicity in Murine P388 Leukemia
Authors: Chitnis Manik P. , Menon Ravi S. , Gude Rajeev P.
Published: April 2018

Studies on mice bearing P388 adriamycin sensitive and resistant lymphocytic leukemia were carried out to compare antitumor activity of adriamycin dissolved in Tween 80 (10 % in distilled water) with that of adriamycin dissolved in distilled water alone. The antitumor activity of adriamycin dissolved in acqueous solutions of Tween 80 was higher than that of adriamycin dissolved in distilled water against P388 leukemia sensitive to adriamycin. However, no change in the activity was observed in P388 leukemia resistant to adriamycin when the drug was administered either in acqueous solution of Tween 80 or in distilled water alone.
Antitumor Effect of L-Alanosine (NSC 153553) on Sensitive and Resistant Sublines of Murine Leukemias
Authors: Chitnis M.P. , Adwankar M.K. , Amonkar A.J.
Published: April 2018

The antitumor action of L-alanosine (NSC 153553) was investigated in murine leukemia P388 (P388/S), P388 resistant to adriamycin (P388/ADR), P388 resistant to vincristine (P388/VCR) and leukemia L5178Y sensitive to L-asparaginase (L5178Y/S). L-alanosine demonstrated good antineoplastic activity against P388/S and P388/ADR, whereas it showed better anti-cancer activity against P388/VCR and L5178Y/S at the various dose levels employed.
The Mid-Term Effects of Radiotherapy on T and B Lymphocytes: An Evaluation of Cellular Immunity with Standard Methods and Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Monti Giuseppe , Guerrini Laura , Magni Ettore , Cruciani Giorgio , Bardella Daniele
Published: April 2018

The mid-term effects of radiotherapy on T and B peripheral lymphocytes of 15 patients treated for various malignancies were evaluated. All patients had a significant impairment of lymphocyte functions, as measured by blastogenesis after stimulation with phytohemagglutinin and pokeweed mitogen. Such impairment lasted for 1 year after the completion of radiotherapy, when numerical variability of T and B subpopulations, observed during and after radiation treatment, was restored to initial values.
Variations in Estrogen and Progesterone Receptor Content in Premenopausal Breast Cancer Patients Throughout the Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Coradini Danila , Cappelletti Vera , Miodini Patrizia , Ronchi Enrico , Scavone Gianfranco , Di Fronzo Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PgR) receptor content was assayed in 290 premenopausal women with primary breast cancer, in order to investigate the influence of endogenous hormones on cytoplasmic receptor concentrations throughout the menstrual cycle, subdivided into four phases of ovarian function (early and late follicular phase, early and late luteal phase). Of the total population, 231 (79.7 %) patients were ER positive and 59 (20.3 %) were ER negative; 220 (75.9 %) were PgR positive and 70 (24.1 %) were PgR negative. The percentages of positive cases were almost constant in each phase. No significant difference in mean values of ER concentration was noted throughout the cycle. Instead, the PgR concentration significantly increased from the first to the third phase (P = 0.02) and decreased from the third to the fourth phase (P = 0.01). Our results suggest that ER- and PgR- cases are homogeneously distributed and not influenced by the phase of the cycle. Moreover, they suggest that PgR measurement in the luteal phase, rather than in other phases, prevents the occurrence of false low PgR levels and, at the same time, improves its prognostic significance and response rate to endocrine therapy.
Peripheral T Cell Lymphoma in Adults: Morphological and Phenotypical Study of Four Cases
Authors: Ruco Luigi P. , Stoppacciaro Antonella , Mirolo Marina , Valtieri Mauro , Vitolo Domenico , Uccini Stefania , Anselmo Anna Paola , Guglielmi Cesare , Mandelli Franco , Baroni Carlo D.
Published: April 2018

In the present study we investigated the lymph node morphology and distribution of cell surface phenotypes in four cases of adult peripheral T cell lymphoma. Histologically, the tumors were classified as T zone lymphoma, T cell lymphoma with large multilobated nuclei and T cell immunoblastic sarcoma. In the T zone lymphoma the neoplastic lymphocytes were E+ (90 %) and exhibited intensive focal staining for acid phosphatase (93 %) and acid esterase (92 %); the phenotype distribution revealed low expression of the T-3 antigen (49 %), selective expression of the T-4 antigen (72 %) and poor expression of T-6 (10 %) and T-10 antigens (22 %). Some of these features are present in normal and in neoplastic immature T cells. In the remaining three cases the majority of lymph node cells were E+ (59–75 %), T-3+ (67–80 %) and T-8+ (43–55 %). A distinctive feature of the T cell immunoblastic sarcoma was the presence of high percentages of DR+ cells (62 %; 63 %). Thus our results indicate that the morphological heterogeneity of peripheral T cell lymphoma is also paralleled by a variety of surface phenotypes and that phenotype studies may provide a useful contribution to identification and accurate classification of peripheral T cell neoplasms.
A Retrospective Study of Fam Regimen in 38 Patients with Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ridolfi Ruggero , Giunchi Donata Casadei , Cortesi Claudia , Maltoni Marco , Ravaioli Alberto , Amadori Dino
Published: April 2018

Gastric carcinoma has a very poor prognosis, with a survival rate at 5 years of 13 %. Various chemotherapy regimens have been used in the advanced stages of the disease. The best results were obtained using the FAM combination. We treated 38 patients with advanced measurable gastric cancer using the FAM combination and obtained 23.67 % complete plus partial remission (CR+PR) (32 % with more restrictive criteria for eligible patients) and 34 % no change. The median length of response was 30 weeks in CR patients (range 20–100) and 26 weeks (range 12–34) in PR patients. Responsive patients (CR+PR) had a median survival of 12.3 months (range 5–22) compared to nearly 4 months (range 2–8) for unresponsive patients.
Perianal Paget's Disease: Case Report of an Elderly Patient Treated with Polychemotherapy and Radiotherapy
Authors: Secco Giovanni Battista , Lapertosa Gabriella , Sertoli Mario Roberto , Scarpati Daniele , Riboli Edoardo Berti
Published: April 2018

The authors report a case of an 85-year-old patient suffering from perianal Paget's disease treated with polychemotherapy and radiotherapy, and followed for 30 months with no evidence of recurrence. Such treatment may be an effective alternative to surgical resection in elderly patients, although no definitive conclusion can be drawn due to the rarity of the disease.
A Cerebral Ependymoma with Extracranial Metastases
Authors: Ferracini Romano , Manetto Valeria , Poletti Venerino , Giangasparo Felice
Published: April 2018

A case is presented of a 30-year-old woman with a malignant ependymoma with extracranial metastases involving the cervical lymph nodes. The positive reaction to antibody against glial fibrillary acidic protein confirmed the ependymoma origin of the lymph node metastases.
Modulation of Heat Shock Protein Synthesis in Two Human Melanoma Cell Lines
Authors: Delpino Andrea , Falcioni Rita , Ferrini Umberto
Published: April 2018

Two human melanoma cell lines, largely different from one another in their intrinsic thermosensitivity, were exposed to supranormal temperatures and labeled with 35S-methionine. The protein patterns resolved by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed in both cell lines an increased synthesis of a unique set of heat shock proteins (HSP) of 72 Kdalton (KD). Already evident after 15 min at 42 °C, the relative rate of synthesis of these HSP increased progressively for up to 3 h of continous heat treatment. The cells exposed for 1 h at 42 °C and then returned to 37 °C maintained a high relative rate of HSP synthesis for more than 6 h. The rate of decay of the neosynthesized HSP did not differ from that of the overall cell proteins. Since in both cell lines all the parameters concerning HSP induction were identical, no correlation can be established between their intrinsic sensitivity towards the conditioning treatment and the capacity to respond to heat treatment with an increased synthesis of these proteins.
Monoclonal Gammopathy (IgM-k) in a Patient with Burkitt's Type Lymphoblastic Lymphoma
Authors: Bajetta Emilio , Gasparini Giampietro , Facchetti Giorgio , Ferrari Laura , Giardini Roberto , Delia Domenico
Published: April 2018

We report a Burkitt's type lymphoblastic lymphoma (B-LL) case characterized by an abnormal IgMk immunoglobulin secretion and referred to us on February 12, 1982. The diagnosis has been histologically documented and the pathological stage of the disease (IV B) was determined according to the diagnostic criteria usually employed for the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Serum proteins were determined by electrophoresis and immunodiffusion. The review of the literature has allowed us to ascertain that the presence of a monoclonal IgM peak can be associated with NHL, particularly with those of B cell type and in adult subjects. Up to now, only six IgM B-LL secreting cases have been described. The biological and prognostic significance of this elevated Ig secretion is uncertain; therefore it may be important for the future to evaluate, in B-LL this immunological parameter.
Diagnostic Value of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Assay in Pleural Effusions
Authors: Pierucci Giuseppe , Lucivero Giacomo , Amoruso Cinzia , Bonomo Lorenzo
Published: April 2018

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were evaluated by a direct radioimmunoassay in the effusion fluids and plasma samples from 107 patients with pleural effusions of unknown etiology. CEA levels higher than 20 ng/ml were detected in 55 % of pleural effusions from patients with malignant disease: 40 % of the patients in this group had values of plasmatic CEA lower than 20 ng/ml. With the only exception of 4 patients with empyema, CEA levels were uniformly lower than 20 ng/ml in the effusion fluid of patients with benign disease. Moreover, CEA levels higher than 20 ng/ml were observed in 81.2 % of pleural effusions and 31.2 % of plasma samples from patients with cytology positive for malignancy, whereas increased CEA levels were observed in 37.5 % of effusion fluids and 33.3 % of plasma samples from patients with malignant disease but negative cytology in the pleural effusion. CEA assay in the effusion fluid represents a useful tool of high specificity and good sensitivity to discriminate between benign and malignant etiology of pleural effusions.
The Growth Rate in the Interpretation of the Natural History of Lung Cancer
Authors: Galante Emanuele , Reduzzi Dario , Gallus Giuseppe , Guzzon Adalgiso , Cataldo Ignazio , Valente Maurizio , Ravasi Gianni
Published: April 2018

The relationship between growth rate, expressed as doubling time (DT), of 110 lung cancers from randomly collected patients and patient age, sex, histological type, symptoms, smoking habits, size and lymph node involvement was studied. Median DT values of epidermoid carcinomas and adenocarcinomas were superimposable (98 and 99 days, respectively), but 15 % of adenocarcinomas had a DT of more than one year. Significant correlations were found with sex (slower growth rate in females) and symptoms (faster growth in symptomatic patients), but only for adenocarcinomas. The number of cigarettes smoked did not seem to affect the growth rate of lung cancers. There was no correlation between growth rate and tumor size or lymph node involvement.
Low-Dose Cisplatin and Etoposide in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Canobbio Luciano , Ardizzoni Andrea , Felletti Raffaella , Colombara Michele , Ravazzoni Cesare , Serrano Salvatore , Rosso Riccardo
Published: April 2018

Twenty-seven consecutive patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung carcinoma were treated with low-dose cisplatin and etoposide. Out of 25 evaluable patients, 8 % had a partial response, 56 % had stable disease and 36 % had disease progression. The overall median survival was 4 months. The survival of the two responding patients was 5 and 6.5 months. The patients showing stable disease or progression had a median survival of 6 and 3 months, respectively. Toxicity including myelosuppression, nephrotoxicity and gastro-intestinal side effects was generally mild. In this trial the combination of low-dose cisplatin and etoposide did not yield the same positive results observed by other authors. The different selection of patients and criteria of response evaluation could represent the main reason for this disagreement in results.
Morphologic Changes, Mucin Secretion, Carcinoembryonic Antigen (Cea) and Peanut Lectin Reactivity in Colonic Mucosa of Patients at High Risk for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Altavilla Giuseppe , Lanza Giovanni , Rossi Sonia , Cavazzini Luigi
Published: April 2018

We studied 393 endoscopic colonic biopsies from 72 patients, classified in different groups after assessment of their risk factors, using: histologic, histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques (CEA-PAP and PNA-Px). In high risk patients (Groups A and B) the most relevant modifications were dysplasia with hyposecretion and hyperplasia with sialomucin secretion (TR-type change); in Group A 31 adenomas and 19 hyperplastic polyps also were found. A premalignant nature of dysplasia and predysplastic significance of TR change were suggested: 1) by finding the same alterations in mucosa of Group E (colectomized patients for carcinoma at after 1 year); 2) by increasing expression of CEA and PNA-Px ligands; 3) by their absence in Group D (normal controls). Hyperplastic polyps were confirmed not to be premalignant lesions, but since they had peculiar characteristics (increased CEA and PNA-Px positivity, association with adenomas) it does not seem justified to regard them as lesions unrelated to colorectal cancer, especially when associated with other risk factors. CEA and PNA-Px reactivity correlated well with the risk evaluation and with morphohistochemical changes in the mucosa; the reactivity significantly increased from normal mucosa to dysplasia.
Transient Optic Neuropathy Secondary to Mopp Chemotherapy in Hodgkin's Disease: Report of a Case
Authors: Vecchi Vico , Maccolini Enrico , Bravetti Giorgio Oddo , Guidi Simonetta Guidetti , Serra Laura
Published: April 2018

The authors describe a case of optic neuropathy in a child undergoing MOPP chemotherapy for Hodgkin's disease stage IIIsA. Visual acuity improved after substitution of the aforementioned regimen with ABVD chemotherapy, and reached 1 during maintenance therapy with vinblastine. Various neurologic deficits have been ascribed to vincristine, a well-known neurotoxin. This case of optic neuropathy is supposed to be a rare example of involvement of the 2nd cranial nerve due to vinca alkaloids. The absence of neurotoxicity of vinblastine in this case is emphasized.
An Unusual Case of Multiple Malignancy in an Adult
Authors: Bjerrum Ole Weis , Gjedde Susanne , Bendtzen Klaus , Enk Claes , Pedersen Bente Klarlund , Munch-Petersen Birgitte , Platz Per , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: April 2018

An adult female is described who, during a clinical course of 25 years, presented malignant tumors of the rectum, breast, uterus and colon. Cytostatics were never administered. Lymphocyte subsets, a variety of lymphocyte and mononuclear cell stimulation assays with mitogens and antigens, DNA repair tests and activity of natural killer cells were normal. Serum leukocytic interleukin-1 activity was slightly elevated. Sister chromatid exchange frequency in peripheral lymphocytes was below the normal range. An explanation for the development of 4 primary malignant neoplasms was not found.
The Value of Endometrial Cytology in a High Risk Population
Authors: Buratti Elisabetta , Cefis Francesco , Masserini Marilena , Goisis Franco , Vergadoro Franca , Bolis Giorgio
Published: April 2018

Between January 1982 and November 1983, 335 women at risk for endometrial carcinoma, with or without symptoms, were screened on an out-patient basis at the 3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University of Milan for endometrial carcinoma and its precursors. Cytologic diagnosis of material obtained with the Milan-Markley helix (Mi-Mark) was compared, in terms of acceptability and diagnostic accuracy, with histologic diagnosis of material obtained by Vabra curettage. The Mi-Mark was better accepted by the patients and there were almost no complications. Sensitivity was 93 % for adenocarcinoma, 62 % for atypical hyperplasia and 76 % for hyperplasia without atypia. According to epidemiologic data and to our results, we suggest this screening procedure for asymptomatic obese women.
Polyamines and Nucleic Acids in Gestational Trophoblastic Tumors
Authors: Romano Marta , Cecco Luigi , Cerra Maria , Pasquinelli Rosa , Pagnano Antonio Michelangelo , Paladini Alfredo
Published: April 2018

To test the relationship between tumor malignancy and content and distribution of polyamines and nucleic acids, 2 forms of human gestational trophoblastic tumors were examined: the hydatidiform mole (self-limited form) and the human choriocarcinoma (invasive form) xenografted into nude mice. The results indicate that there are 2 significant differences between the choriocarcinoma and the mole: 1) the choriocarcinoma is characterized by increased polyamine and nucleic acid levels, 2) the 2 tissues differ in their putrescine:spermidine and spermidine:spermine ratios. There is an increase in polyamines in the urine of mole-bearing patients over that of normal controls. The correlation between putrescine and spermidine with the chorionic gonadotropin indicates that these 2 polyamines reflect the biological activity of the mole.
Enhancement of Hematoporphyrin Derivative Uptake in Vitro and in Vivo by Tumor Cells in the Presence of Lanthanum
Authors: Crone-Escanye Marie-Christine , Anghileri Léopold J. , Robert Jacques
Published: April 2018

Hematoporphyrin derivative is currently used as a photochemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of neoplasms. The uptake of hematoporphyrin derivative was determined in vitro and as a function of time with Ehrlich ascites cells in the presence of lanthanum and in vivo with VFM1 tumor-bearing mice pretreated by intratumoral injection of LaCl3. Our results indicate that the treatment with lanthanum increases the uptake of hematoporphyrin derivative by tumor cells.
Cytokinetic Studies in Acute Leukemia during Early Induction Therapy
Authors: Traversi Egidio , Riccardi Alberto , Montecucco Carlomaurizio , Mazzini Giuliano , Giordano Paolo
Published: April 2018

The proliferative activity of bone marrow blasts was determined in 19 patients with acute leukemia during early induction therapy using in vitro tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR) cytoautoradiography and propidium iodide DNA flow cytofluorometry. Folloding 1-3 causes of treatment, the aliquot of bone marrow blasts in 9 patients, who later achieved remission or marrow aplasia, was reduced to a greater extent that of the remaining 10 patients who failed to respond. In the first group of patients, the 3H-TdR labeling index was increased by 259-653 % over the pretreatment value, whereas it was lower than 104 % of the pretreatment value in all but one unresponsive patient. Leukemic blast recruitment is conceivable. It might have facilitated remission by increasing the effectiveness of the antileukemic agents administered later.
Multifactorial Analysis of Noc Lung Carcinoma Radiotherapy
Authors: Buffoli Alberto , Feroldi Piero , Mabellini Mauro , Morabito Alberto , Tordiglione Michele
Published: April 2018

In order to evaluate survival of non-oat-cell lung carcinoma patients treated exclusively with radiotherapy, the authors analyzed a series of 791 cases irradiated at the Istituto del Radio « O. Alberti » from 1978 to 1982. The authors selected a homogeneous group of 131 patients, treated with high energy photons and with a fractionation course of a dose ranging from 1.75 to 2.00 Gy per fraction, 5 fractions per week, total dose ranging from 40 to 65 Gy within 4 to 8 weeks and with a time dose factor (TDF) ranging from 60 to 108. The survival curve was computed according to several prognostic factors by means of the Kaplan and Meier approach; a multifactorial analysis was carried out according to Cox's model. No factor significantly affected survival at the level P < 0.05, except complications: anyway, TDF and tumor size seem to play a particular role. The non-oat-cell lung carcinoma patient who can profit from radiotherapy may be only partially featured: an improved survival and quality of life may be achieved if there are correct criteria to include the patient in the radiotherapy program, if the tumor is small, heavy complications are absent and treatment TDF ranges from 82 to 92.
Severe Pericarditis as a Presenting Sign of Bronchogenic Carcinoma
Authors: Danova Marco , Riccardi Alberto , Girino Margherita , Ucci Giovanni , Vadalà Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

An exudative pericarditis was the only sign of an adenocarcinoma arising from the right main bronchus of the lung for two and a half months. No metastases were found at the time of diagnosis. Pericarditis relapsed quickly after repeated pericardiocenteses, and systemic chemotherapy did not influence its course. Cardiac tamponade caused the death of the patient.
Palliative Cryosurgery for Oral Cavity Malignant Melanoma: A Case Report
Authors: Delbello Alessandro , Sandri Paolo , Mustacchi Giorgio
Published: April 2018

A case of unresectable malignant melanoma of the oral cavity, treated with cryosurgery, is reported. A complete remission of 10 months was obtained, followed by 2 local recurrences, both treated successfully (CR: 9 and 4 months). At 23 months after the first treatment, a new local recurrence was considered untreatable.
Comparison of the Chemotactic Response to Conditioned Medium of Balb/c3T3 Fibroblasts and their SV 40 Transformants
Authors: Albini Adriana , Allavena Gabriella , Parodi Silvio , Santi Leonardo
Published: April 2018

The chemotactic migration of transformed cells out of their tissue of origin might represent an essential component of tumor invasion and metastasis. In the Boyden chamber assay SV 40 virus-transformed BALB-c3T3 fibroblast (SV/3T3) showed an increased chemotactic response to fibroblasts-conditioned medium in comparison to non-transformed BALB/c3T3 cells. This was verified for a large range of incubation times and cell densities. Fibroblast-conditioned medium contains components of the extracellular matrix of connective tissue. Since organs rich in connective tissue are often the site of metastasis, the enhanced chemotaxis of virus-transformed cells to conditioned medium could contribute to explain the malignancy of these cells.
Analysis of Trends in Cancer Mortality in Italy 1951-1978; The Effects of Age, Period of Birth, and Period of Death
Authors: Geddes Marco , Osmond Clive , Barchielli Alessandro , Buiatti Eva
Published: April 2018

We describe trends in cancer mortality in Italy between 1951 and 1978 for 6 different sites (esophagus, lung, breast, cervix uteri, testis, and bladder) as well as all cancers. This is done using a statistical model which separates the contributions associated with age, period of birth and period of death. The results are related to equivalent analyses in England and Wales and also to trends in lifestyle in Italy (alcohol consumption, cigarette consumption, birth rates).
Trends in Childhood Cancer Mortality in Italy, 1955-78
Authors: La Vecchia Carlo , Decarli Adriano
Published: April 2018

Trends in childhood cancer death rates in Italy from 1955 to 1978 were analyzed. All cancer age-standardized mortality below age 15 fell about 20%, with a clear downward trend since the early 1970's. Declines were evident for leukemias (–25%), Hodgkin's disease (–56%), non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (–27%), kidney cancer (–25%), retinoblastoma (–50%), and bone sarcomas (–31%), for a total number of about 200-250 fewer deaths per year in the late 1970's compared to the expected values using rates of the 1950's. The observed fall was apparently confined within the first age group considered (0-4 years), but the age-specific patterns of trend were partly influenced by simple postponement of some deaths to older age groups. Comparisons with similar data in other developed countries suggest that, although there has undoubtedly been some progress, there is still wide scope for further reduction in childhood cancer mortality in Italy, simply through more rational use of currently available diagnostic and therapeutic knowledge.
Systematic Use of the Clinical-Mammographic-Cytologic Triplet for the Early Diagnosis of Mammary Carcinoma
Authors: Di Pietro Sergio , Fariselli Giuseppe , Bandieramonte Gaetano , de Yoldi Gianfranco Coopmans , Guzzon Adalgiso , Viganotti Giovanni , Pilotti Silvana
Published: April 2018

Of about 8500 women with a minimum age of 30 years who had a breast examination at our Ouptatient Clinic from April 1982 to March 1983, we found in 286 cases a clinically evident carcinoma, and in 534 cases an apparently benign or suspect solid lump. All 534 of these cases were subjected to the triplet clinical, mammographic and cytologic diagnostic investigation by needle aspiration within 1 to 4 days. The clinical judgment was based on a method of scoring of the characters of 9 physical features (Clinical Diagnostic Index) in use at our Institute. The results of the examinations were grouped into 5 categories: 1) certain benignancy or negativity of the examination; 2) probable benignancy (excluding the cytologic examination); 3) probable malignancy; 4) certain malignancy; 5) nonevaluability of the examination (excluding the clinical examination). Except for 80 cases with collectively negative examinations which were clearly or completely regressed at the control within 2 months, all the others were subjected to surgery. On the basis of the histologic examination (or if regression occurred), 284 of the 534 lumps examined were found to be benign or nontumoral, whereas the other 250 (47%) were carcinomas. Of the latter, 57% were not more than 20 mm in size, whereas in 67.6% there was no microscopic evidence of axillary metastases. Sensitivity of the clinical, mammographic and cytologic examinations was 0.79, 0.76 and 0.72, respectively; specificity 0.71, 0.75 and 0.94, respectively, and the predictive value for malignancy of the positive response of the three examinations 0.71, 0.75 and 0.93, respectively. The use of the diagnostic triplet demonstrated an overall sensitivity of 0.95, specificity of 0.59, and a predictive value for malignancy of 0.98 and 0.93 for benignancy. These results confirm the usefulness of the systematic use of the diagnostic triplet in solid breast lumps of over thirty aged women for the early detection of cancer.
Combination of Mitomycin C + Etoposide in Advanced Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Tomirotti Maurizio , Lombardi Franco , Biasioli Roberto , Riundi Romeo , Scanni Alberto
Published: April 2018

In June 1981 the authors activated a trial to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of the combination mitomycin C (MMC) + etoposide (VP 16) in previously untreated gastric carcinoma with measurable neoplastic lesions. Drugs were administered according to the following schedule: MMC, 12 mg/m2 i.v. day 1, + VP 16, 150-200 mg/m2 orally days 2, 3, 4, 22, 23, 24 every 6 weeks. The response rate (CR+PR) was 16.7 %, which is not higher than that obtained when MMC and VP 16 are used as single agents. Overall median survival (8 months) was similar to that reported in the recent literature with combination chemotherapy.
Tissue Antigen Distribution in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Busachi Carlo Antonio , Ferrari Stefano , Ballardini Pier Luigi , Landi Patrizia , Bazzocchi Floriano , Santini Donatella , Martinelli Giuseppe , Piccaluga Alessandro , Pisi Emilio
Published: April 2018

An iminunohistochemical study on 63 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) was performed for the demonstration of α1-antitrypsin (AAT), α-fetoprotein (AFP) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigens. AAT and AFP were also investigated in 54 cases of cirrhosis not associated with HCC. AAT was frequently expressed both in HCC (82.5%) and in cirrhosis (53.7%), whereas AFP was present in 41.2% of HCC and never detected in cirrhosis used as controls. These findings suggest that AFP is the more specific antigen for use as a marker of malignant cellular transformation. The HBsAg-positivity in 31.7% of HCC supports the hypothesis of a close link between virus B infection and the tumor.
Leucovorin Rescue of Enteric Lesions Induced by High-Dose Methotrexate: A Time-Related Study in Mice
Authors: Mansi Carlo , Pesce Carlo , Gismondi Costanzo , Bogliolo Giuseppe , Massa Giulio , Celle Guido
Published: April 2018

In this study, different groups of mice were treated with a single high-dose of methotrexate or with a leucovorin-methotrexate association, and the changes in structure and cell types of the small intestine were studied histologically. The results suggested that leucovorin rescue diminished the degree of mitotic abatement induced by methotrexate in the first days after treatment, with better preservation of enteric structures and the cell type ratio.
Influence of in Vitro Culture Conditions on Tumor Cell Differentiation
Authors: Porro Giuliana , Tagliabue Elda , Ménard Sylvie , Colnaghi M.I.
Published: April 2018

We studied the influence of different in vitro culture conditions on the growth characteristics of certain human and murine tumor cell lines maintained in either conventional medium supplemented with FCS or in serum-free synthetic medium. A lower growth rate was observed for all of the cell lines maintained in serum-free conditions. Three human melanoma cell lines which were Ia-positive and showed an absence of pigmentation in the presence of FCS, without it produced melanin and lost their Ia antigens. In serum-free conditions, a murine hybridoma lost its membrane IgM and two human carcinoma cell lines expressed and secreted an increased amount of several tumor markers identified by monoclonal antibodies. The results of the study are in keeping with the hypothesis that tumor cell lines cultured in serum-free medium acquire differentiation characteristics.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis in Women with Operable Breast Cancer Treated with Adjuvant CMF and Tamoxifen
Authors: Delrio Giovanni , De Placido Sabino , Pagliarolo Clorindo , d'Istria Michela , Fasano Silvia , Marinelli Alfredo , Citarella Franca , De Sio Livia , Contegiacomo Alma , Iaffaioli Rosario Vincenzo , Petrella Giuseppe , Ricciardi Italo , Bianco A. Raffaele
Published: April 2018

The effect of adjuvant CMF (cyclophopshamide, methotrexate, and 5-fluorouracil) and tamoxifen (TM) on hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian function was studied in 120 women with stage I-II operable breast cancer. Sixty patients were premenopausal, of whom 25 were treated with CMF for 9 cycles, 25 with CMF for 9 cycles + TM for 2 years, started concurrently, and 10 with TM alone for 2 years. Sixty patients were postmenopausal and they were all treated with TM alone for 2 years. In all groups treatment was started within 4 weeks of mastectomy. Plasma levels of estrone (E1), estradiol-17β (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (Prl), testosterone (T) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were determined in all patients before surgery and again at 3-month intervals from initiation of the adjuvant therapy. In ten patients of each treatment group FSH-LH and Prl-TSH release was determined following stimulation with releasing hormones. CMF and CMF + TM therapy resulted in amenorrhea in 42/50 premenopausal patients with decrease of E1 + E2 (p < 0.001) and elevation of FSH (p < 0.001) and LH (p < 0.01) plasma concentration to postmenopausal levels. In premenopausal women treated with TM a marked increase of E1 + E2 (p < 0.001) was observed with unaltered FSH-LH plasma concentration. A significant fall of Prl also occurred in these patients. In postmenopausal women and premenopausal patients with CMF-induced amenorrhea TM produced a marked fall of FSH-LH and a decrease of Prl plasma level. Plasma TSH and T were not affected in any patient by any of the treatment regimens. The results of the stimulatory tests are in agreement with the hormonal changes observed under basal conditions and indicate that, whereas CMF suppresses the ovary and does not alter hypothalamic-pituitary function, TM induces profound changes of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis.
Alkaline Phosphatase and Gamma Glutamyltranspeptidase in Human Lymphomas
Authors: Spinazzè Silvia , Vezzoni M. Antonietta , Murone Michelangelo , Banfi Emanuela , Giardini Roberto , Stangalini Alberto , Clerici Libero , Scanni Alberto , Vezzoni Paolo
Published: April 2018

Alkaline phosphatase (AP) and gamma glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) were studied in normal lymphoid cells and in 28 cases of human lymphomas (23 of non-Hodgkin's and 5 of Hodgkin's disease). The expression of AP was enhanced in several samples with a high proportion of mature B cells, particularly in centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma, whereas tissues mainly composed of T cells always showed low levels of this enzyme. GGT levels were high in thymus, as well as in centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma and other NHL, thus demonstrating no restriction to a particular cell lineage. Some B-cell neoplasms with cellular origin different from that of centroblastic-centrocytic lymphoma, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia and centrocytic lymphoma, had low levels of both enzymes. The role of investigation with specific antibodies against these two enzymatic activities in the physiology of lymphoma cell membrane is discussed.
Fine Needle Percutaneous Intratumoral Chemotherapy under Ultrasound Guidance: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Livraghi Tito , Bajetta Emilio , Matricardi Luigi , Villa Eugenio , Lovati Roberta , Vettori Claudio
Published: April 2018

To test the feasibility of fine needle (22 gauge) percutaneous intratumoral chemotherapy (PIC) under ultrasound guidance, a trial was conducted on 12 selected neoplastic patients with tumors not responsive to conventional treatments (5 adenocarcinomas of the pancreas, 1 hepatocellular carcinoma, 1 squamous cell carcinoma of the lung, 1 leiomyosarcoma of the hepatic hilum, 1 malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the ischiatic region, 2 liver and 1 peritoneal metastases). The drugs used were 5-fluorouracil, methotrexate and cyclophosphamide, according to the histotype. The doses given never exceeded the routine intravenous doses; 119 sessions of PIC were administered. There have been no significant local complications due to needle injury and drug toxicity or biochemical changes attributable to general toxicity. Partial or total pain control and stable disease or response to 60% was observed. This research has not been described previously to our knowledge.
Cystic Nephroma in Children. Report of a Case
Authors: Mancini Antonia Francesca , Zanetti Gianfranco , Rosito Pasquale , Capucci Maria Cristina , Federici Silvana , Malossi Riccardo , Di Caro Alfredo
Published: April 2018

A case of cystic nephroma is described in a 20-month-old female. The diagnosis of this rare renal pathologic lesion is essentially based on its pathologic features. The treatment consisted of nephrectomy followed by a brief course of chemotherapy. The literature is reviewed with regard to the pathologic features and treatment of this lesion, which has a favorable prognosis.