bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Study of 275 Cases of Head and Neck Tumors in Childhood
Authors: Molinari Roberto , Zappata Alessandro
Published: April 2018

275 cases of head and neck tumors were observed among patients from 0 to 17 years of age at the National Cancer Institute of Milan during the forty year period 1928–1968. Because of possible preselection of the case material, cutaneous angiomas, retinoblastomas, adamantinomas and central nervous system (CNS) tumors were excluded from this series. All cases were evaluated from the viewpoint of histogenesis, site, age and sex. From the analysis of the different cases we can point out that: 1) if CNS tumors and retinoblastoma are excluded, no type of head and neck neoplasm is absolutely characteristic of childhood. 2) Angioma is the most common benign growth, followed by thyroid adenoma, nevus and parotid gland mixed tumor; among malignant tumors, the most frequent are solid and lymphoreticular sarcomas followed with a much lower incidence by carcinoma of nasopharynx. 3) The epithelial investment very rarely gives origin to malignant tumors, which are predominantly found in the nasopharynx. 4) A part from some exceptions, the general incidence of all benign and malignant tumors increases proportionally with age. 5) Benign tumors are more common among females while malignant tumors among males. 6) Rhabdomyosarcoma of the head and neck area is located almost solely in the soft palate.
Investigatin on the Tumor Producing Effect of Isonicotinic Acid Hydrazide in ASW/Sn Mice and MRC Rats
Authors: Toth Bela , Toth Terezia
Published: April 2018

Administration of 0.1% isonicotinic acid hydrazide in drinking water to 9 week old ASW/Sn mice and to 5 week old MRC rats for the remainder of their lifetime resulted in an enhanced incidence of pulmonary tumors in the former species. It rose from 34 to 68% in the females as compared with the controls, while in the males, the treatment did not affect the development of these lesions nor did it increase the incidences of other types of tumors. In rats, the compound was also without any apparent carcinogenic effect.

The possible role of this chemical in tumorigenesis is discussed in light of the obtained results.
In Vivo and in Vitro Proliferation Kinetics of Sarcoma 180 in Solid Form
Authors: Silvestrini Rosella , Sanfilippo Ornella , Lenaz Luigi
Published: April 2018

In order to obtain data for setting up a rapid and relatively inexpensive method for studying the proliferation kinetics of human solid tumors, we have determined the kinetic parameters of an experimental solid tumor (Sarcoma 180). The curve of labelled mitosis after pulse labelling with 3H thymidine and the 3H and 14C thymidine double labelling technic on tumor samples incubated in vitro with the labelled precursors were used. A method of digestion of the tissue with hyaluronidase to obtain a cell suspension is described. This method allows easy identification of cells labelled with 3H or 14C thymidine. The two methods yielded reproducible results, the labelling index being 45%, and the duration of S phase 9.9 hours. The in vitro double labelling method with subsequent hyaluronidase digestion is proposed for studying the proliferation kinetics of solid malignancies.
Ultrastructural Changes Produced in Cultured, Adriamycin-Treated Myocardial Cells,
Authors: Necco Anna , Dasdia Teresa , Cozzi Silvia , Ferraguti Marco
Published: April 2018

The ultrastructural evaluation of the early alterations adriamycin-induced on cultured mice heart cells is reported. The major effects are hypertrophy of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and a market increase of the number and total extension of the gap junctions. These findings are discussed in the light of the information available in the literature.
Syngeneic Antitumor and Antiembryo Immunization Affecting Pregnancy in Mice
Authors: Lembo Rosario , Parmiani Giorgio
Published: April 2018

Groups of virgin BALB/c female were immunized against methylcholanthrene, SV40-induced or spontaneous syngeneic sarcoma cells or against syngeneic mitomycin-C blocked embryonic cells. Females were then mated to syngeneic males and observed for pregnancy rate and size of litters. To mimic the antiembryo immunization occurring during normal pregnancy, other experimental groups were added in which midgestational embryo fragments were kept in cell-impermeable diffusion chambers placed in the peritoneal cavity of virgin females for 20 days, and removed before mating these females with syngeneic males. In all cases, antitumor and antiembryo immunization significantly reduced the number of successful pregnancies after the 1st mating while the second pregnancy appeared to be unaffected by the treatment. A significant reduction in the mean litter size was found, in mice immunized with embryonic tissues or with the SV40-induced sarcoma but not in those immunized with methylcholanthrene-induced or spontaneous tumors.
Carcinomatous Metastases on the Chiari's Network
Authors: Lemma Enrico , Minghetti Giuliano , Ferracini Romano
Published: April 2018

The authors describe the first case of carcinomatous metastases on the Chiari's network. The primitive neoplasm was situated in the liver.
Results of Radiotherapy in a Series of 250 Carcinomas of the Mucosal Surface of the Cheek
Authors: Volterrani Fabio , Severini Aldo , Chiesa Fausto , Acerbi Giovanni , Mantero Maria , Uslenghi Carlo
Published: April 2018

This paper presents the results of a retrospective clinical study of 250 cases of mono-centric carcinoma of the mucosal surface of the cheek, i. e. all the primaries treated by radiotherapy at our Institute between January 1948 and December 1965. Neoplastic lesions found at follow-up were regarded as marginal recurrences if in the proximity of the treated area and as secondary tumors in other cases. From 1948 to 1957 conventional radium therapy was the usual treatment for the primary tumor whereas from 1958 to 1965 cobalt teletherapy was given most frequently. Surgery was reserved for lymph node metastases when present on clinical examination. In our experience radiotherapy is effective in cancers of the mucosal surface of the cheek, for it checked local spread in 50.9 % of cases, however treated and regardless of initial clinical appearance, whereas in the T1-T2 cases the local failure rate dropped to 35.8 %. The higher the T level the greater are the difficulties confronting radiotherapy; for more extensive lesions appropriate combination therapy (radiosurgical) in line with the well-defined rules explained in the text is useful. In our experience radiotherapy yields good long term results regardless of T level and even in the more unfavorable cases. Our study confirms the low rate of lymph spread of these carcinomas: over half of the patients were NO before treatment; only 56.7 % of the patients receiving surgical treatment on the neck had histologically positive lymph nodes; there were very few neck recurrences at follow-up; the presence of suspect or frankly metastatic nodes on clinical examination, being movable and homolateral (N1), did not worsen the prognosis. However, considering the techniques used for irradiation of the primary, some patients received a substantial dose to the neck; hence radiotherapy probably played its part in the low rate of neck metastases.
Hepatic Enzymes in Hodgkin's and non Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Authors: Belliveau Robert E. , Abt Arthur B. , Wiernik Peter H.
Published: April 2018

Serum alkaline phosphatase levels in patients with Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were studied. The findings were correlated with clinical stage, particularly hepatic involvement, and histologic findings. Serum levels of other hepatic enzymes (SGOT, 5′N and γGT) were also measured. The usefulness of these studies for clinical staging was described, as well as speculation on the observed differences in Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's patients.
Effects of Some Pyrrolic and Dihydropyrrolizine Esters on Mouse Skin: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Mattocks A. Robin , Cabral José R. P.
Published: April 2018

Groups of male BALB/c mice were given 33 to 35 treatments during 52 to 54 weeks with 5 ester alkylating agents. Two of these (I and II) were potential metabolites of carcinogenic pyrrolizidine alkaloids; the others (III-V) were chemically similar synthetic compounds. Each dose of 0.5 or 1.0 μmol, in acetone, was applied to the shaved dorsal skin. A control group received acetone. Three skin tumours and 2 preneoplastic lesions were found among 9 mice receiving the compound IV, the agent giving the slowest chemical alkylation reactions. No skin tumours were seen in the other groups. The results suggest that the relationship between carcinogenic potential and alkylating reactivity in this series of compounds should be further investigated.
Nipple Discharge as a Sign of Preneoplastic Lesion and Occult Carcinoma of the Breast: Clinical and Galactographic Study in 103 Consecutive Patients
Authors: Di Pietro Sergio , De Yoldi Gianfranco Coopmans , Bergonzi Silvana , Gardani Gianstefano , Saccozzi Roberto , Clemente Claudio
Published: April 2018

A clinical and galactographic investigation was carried out on 103 patients with hematic, serous-hematic, and serous nipple discharge. The age of the patients ranged from 18 to 72 years. A single papilloma was found in 20 cases, diffuse papillomatosis in 2 cases, atypical ductal hyperplasia in 8 cases, and ductal carcinoma in 4 cases (3 of these were infiltrating and 1 was noninfiltrating associated with a diffuse papillomatosis). Mammography gave no indications of carcinoma in any of the 4 cases. In the remaining 49 patients, pictures of ductal hyperplasia, periductal mastitis or sclerosis, sclerosing adenosis, or ductal ectasia were observed. The various types of lesions were often associated. Lacunae, stenosis, or occlusion of the ducts, evidenced by galactography, correlated well with the histologic findings of proliferative lesions of the ductal epithelium. Nevertheless, in practice, it should be the type of discharge that indicates surgery rather than galactographic or cytologic data, which appeared to have little diagnostic value. The frequency with which preneoplastic (or limit) lesions, and also nonsuspect carcinomas were found in patients with a significant nipple discharge confirm the importance of this symptom for a secondary prevention or early diagnosis of mammary neoplastic lesions originating from galactophorous ducts. Finally, complete resection of the galactophorous ducts must be considered as the best treatment in all patients with a suspicious nipple discharge that requires surgery.
Thalassemia Major Terminating in a Non-hodgkin B-cell Lymphoma: Report of a Case
Authors: Tozzi-Cecchetti Maria Cristina , D'Amelio Raffaele , Baroni Carlo D.
Published: April 2018

A large noncleaved diffuse follicular center cell lymphoma occurring in an 11-year-old child with homozygous beta thalassemia is described. The possible relationship between numerous blood transfusions during a 10-year period and the occurrence of a B-cell lymphoma is discussed.
Radiotherapy for Intracranial Metastasis
Authors: Milani Franco , Mantero Maria
Published: April 2018

The results obtained in a series of 64 patients with intracranial metastasis treated by radiotherapy between 1970 and 1974 are reported. The primary site was the breast in 32 cases, the lung in 24 cases, the skin (melanoma) in 5 cases, and the bones in 1 case; 2 patients had an unknown primary. All patients received a treatment with high energy (telecobalt therapy). The entire brain was irradiated by 2 lateral fields; 1.5 to 2 Gy were administered daily for a total dose of 30 to 40 Gy. The criterion for success was improvement of the functional capacity of the patient, i.e., regained intellectual awareness and physical abilities. To this aim, the patients were classified before and after therapy according to Order's neurological classification. An improvement was observed in 32 patients, whereas 21 patients remained essentially unchanged, and 11 patients worsened. Cerebral metastases from melanoma were radioresistant to the management. No influence on survival rate was observed.
Cycloheximide Increases Endogenous Retroviral RNA Levels in Murine Liver and Lung
Authors: Manenti Giacomo , Dragani Tommaso A. , Porta Giuseppe Delia
Published: April 2018

The expression of moloney murine leukemia virus (Mo-MuLV), intracisternal A particle (IAP), virus-like 30S sequence (VL30), early transposon (ET) endogenous retroviral sequences was analysed in the liver of untreated C3Hf, C57BL/6J and AKR mice, and in the lungs of untreated A/J, BALB/c, C3Hf and C57BL/6J mice. C3Hf mice are genetically susceptible to hepatocarcinogenesis, whereas the other strains are resistant. A/J and BALB/c mice are genetically susceptible to lung carcinogenesis, whereas the other strains are resistant. Both in liver and lung tissues we found differences between murine strains in the pattern of basal retrovirus expression. The effect of inhibition of protein synthesis on the levels of retroviral mRNAs was studied in the same tissues and strains 3 h following in vivo cycloheximide treatment. Cycloheximide treatment increased the liver and lung levels of virus Mo-MuLV, IAP, ET related transcripts in a strain dependent way, whereas VL30 mRNA levels increased in both tissues of all strains examined. These results suggested the existence of labile proteins that regulate the abundance of specific retroviral mRNAs in murine liver and lung in a strain specific fashion. No clear relationships between pattern of retrovirus expression and genetical susceptibility to hepatocarcinogenesis was found. The strains genetically resistant to lung carcinogenesis (C3Hf, C57BL/6J) showed higher lung basal levels and higher cycloheximide inducibility of mRNAs homologous to Mo-MuLV than the susceptible strains (A/J, BALB/c).
Outpatient Surgical Treatment of Lip Carcinomas: Immediate and Long-Term Results
Authors: Zurrida Stefano , Bartoli Cesare , Bono Aldo , Chiesa Fausto
Published: April 2018

From 1977 to 1987, outpatient surgery was performed under local anesthesia on 131 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the lip without regional lymph nodes at the Day Hospital of the Istituto Nazionale Tumori (INT) Milan. Radical surgery was achieved in 117 cases (89.3%), independently of the size of the neoplasm. Of the 7 patients in whom radical surgery was not achieved at first operation, 3 were reoperated on as outpatients, 2 were hospitalized and reoperated, and 2 underwent X-ray treatment. Finally, in the remaining 7 patients radical surgery was not obtained or was near the borderline of the neoplasm. Complications (diastasis and/or suppuration) arose in 4.6% of the cases. During the follow-up (mean duration, 30 months) 7 patients developed a relapse and 2 manifested regional metastasis. Twenty-three patients developed a second tumor (13 on the lip, 3 in the lung, and 7 in other areas). These results prove that day hospital surgery of T1–T2 lip squamous carcinoma is feasible. It is appreciated by the patient, requires very little postoperative care, is less expensive than hospitalization, and involves less psychologic stress for the patient.
Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Importance of Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy in the Evaluation of Complete Remission
Authors: Tondini Maurizio , Rizzi Adriano
Published: April 2018

The authors report their eight-year experience on the methodical of fiberbronchoscopy in the evaluation of complete remission in 140 patients affected by small-cell lung cancer. The higher reliability of fiberbronchoscopy than of standard chest X-ray is emphasized.
Atypical Polypoid Adenomyoma of the Uterus. An Immunohistochemical Study of a Case
Authors: Di Palma Silvana , Santini Donatella , Martinelli Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

We studied one case of atypical polypoid adenomyoma of the uterus immunohistochemically using antisera against keratins, vimentin, S-100 protein, desmin and actin. The stromal cells were reactive with anti-actin and antidesmin antibodies suggesting a muscular phenotype and confirming previous ultrastructural data. Immunohistochemical investigations have proved to be useful in differential diagnosis of APA with invasive adenocarcinoma, adenosarcoma and adenofibroma of the endometrium.
Variability of Euchromatic and Heterochromatic Regions of Y Chromosome in Two Types of Cancer Patients
Authors: Adhvaryu Siddharth G. , Dave Bhavana J. , Trivedi Amit H. , Rawal Urwashi M. , Jani Kalyani H.
Published: April 2018

Heteromorphism of Y chromosome was studied in head and neck cancer patients and leukemia patients. The results were compared with similar data obtained for healthy men. It was observed that, compared to the controls, mean lengths of Y chromosome were nonsignificantly higher for leukemia patients and lower for head and neck cancer patients. The euchromatic region of Y chromosome (Y-eu) remained comparable in the controls and the leukemia patients, whereas it was smaller in patients with head and neck malignancies. The heterochromatic region (Y-het) was more or less analogous in controls and head and neck cancer patients, however, it was significantly larger in patients with leukemia (P < 0.02).
Exacerbation of Metastatic Disease Shortly after Administration of Tamoxifen in ER Negative Advanced Breast Carcinoma. A Case Report
Authors: Cocconi Giorgio , Boni Corrado , Naldi Nadia , Nizzoli Rita , Bozzetti Cecilia
Published: April 2018

In a patient with long untreated slow-growing osteoblastic bone metastases from an ER/PgR negative breast carcinoma, new metastatic sites in many lymphnodes pleura and massively in liver have been observed 4 weeks after receiving tamoxifen. Cause-effect relationship between administration of the drug and this unusually rapid spreading of the disease may be considered only as a hypothesis, as it is based wholly on clinical outcome. However, reporting of any exacerbation of breast cancer apparently induced by tamoxifen, even if only anecdotal, is advisable.
In Vivo and in Vitro Growth of SCLC Cells Derived from Biopsies
Authors: Gianì Silvia , Bedini Vittorio , Cataldo Ignazio , lafrate Elisabetta , Martignone Stefania , Ménard Sylvie , Pilotti Silvana , Pratesi Graziella , Soresi Enzo , Colnaghi Maria Ines
Published: April 2018

In order to increase the availability of SCLC cells derived from biopsies, in vivo and in vitro growth methods were investigated. The cells grown in both conditions were periodically monitored for reactivity with 2 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs): MLuC1 directed against SCLC cells and IM1 which recognizes the class II antigen on activated lymphocytes and macrophages. About 50 % of the 28 analyzed SCLC specimens were found to proliferate in one or both systems. The in vitro-grown cells exhibited the same heterogeneity found in the original cell suspensions and moreover, in some cases only normal cells were recovered after several in vitro passages. From the subcutaneous transplanted tumors a large number of MLuC1-positive tumor cells could easily be recovered, thus indicating the validity of the in vivo methodology. The MBr1 MAb, directed against an epithelial antigen, was found to react with about 50 % of the 26 tested tumors, mainly those which demonstrated in vivo and/or in vitro growth capacity. These data suggest that only some tumors, presumably with peculiar biological characteristics, can efficiently grow in these artificial systems.
Glioblastoma Multiforme of the Cerebellum in an Elderly Man. A Case Report
Authors: Rosenfeld Jeffry , Rossi Marco Lorenzo , Briggs Michael
Published: April 2018

Glioblastoma multiforme of the cerebellum is rare and comprises a small fraction of all glioblastomas. Eighty-five cases have been reported in the literature to date. A 75 year old man is reported with a left cerebellar glioblastoma multiforme. The pathogenesis, course, treatment and prognosis are reviewed.
Recurrence of Hodgkin's Disease after a 28-Year Disease-Free Interval. A Case Report
Authors: Ginaldi Lia , Venturoni Lanfranco , Cretara Girolamo , Quaglino Dennis
Published: April 2018

The authors describe a case of nodular-sclerosing Hodgkin's disease, originally observed in clinical stage III B and treated by systemic chemotherapy, with relapse after a 28-year disease-free interval. As far as we know, the length of remission in this case is second only to that of a case recently described by Hung and coworkers. Therefore, although according to data in the literature relapse after a very long disease-free interval is more frequently observed in patients with stage I A and II A disease, it may occur also in cases with symptomatic, widespread disease. This phenomenon, while reflecting the complexity of relations between the different factors (histologic subtype, clinical stage, host vs tumor defenses, therapy, etc.) that variously affect the clinical course and outcome, underlines the need for cautiousness when assessing the ultimate prognosis of individual cases of Hodgkin's disease.
Patterns of Large Bowel Cancer by Subsite, Age, Sex and Marital Status
Authors: Levi Fabio , La Vecchia Carlo , Randimbison Lalao , Te Van-Cong , Franceschi Silvia
Published: April 2018

Incident cases of large bowel cancer from the Swiss canton of Vaud over the period 1974–88 were analyzed in relation to the distribution of site by sex, age, marital status and detailed subsite. A total of 1,968 cases were registered in males and 1,958 in females, corresponding to overall age-standardized (world) rates of 32.2/100,000 males and 22.4/100,000 females. The frequency of ascending and transverse colon cancer was lower in males (18.2 % and 9.3 %) than in females (23.1 % and 10.0 %, respectively), but cancers of the sigmoid colon and rectum were proportionally more frequent in males (34.0 and 30.0 % versus 29.9 and 24.6 % in females). Anal cancer accounted for 4.0% of large bowel cancers in females, but only 1.2% in males. Analysis of age-specific rates showed comparable values for ascending colon cancer in both sexes and in relation to each subsequent age group, as well as in sigmoid and rectal cancers up to middle age, while a male excess for the latter cancers became evident after age 55. A female excess for anal cancer was apparent in any subsequent age group. Information on marital status was available on 2,398 deceased subjects. Never married cases occounted for 12.2 % of women and 8.1 % of males. The excess of unmarried women was somewhat larger in the colon than in the sigma and rectum groups, but there was no evidence of excess of never married females for anal cancer. These data confirm that there are appreciable inter-sex heterogeneities in the descriptive epidemiology of various subsites of large bowel cancer, as well as complex interactions between sex and age, which may be related to female hormone correlates of intestinal carcinogenesis. Whatever the main biological mechanism(s), these data show noticeable similarities for both sexes in the descriptive epidemiology of cancers arising in the left colon and rectum, but noticeable differences with the right colon. Even more substantial are the differences with anal cancer, which should be linked to its venereal correlates.
Leukemia and Liver Disease in Childhood: Clinical and Histological Evaluation
Authors: Guido Maria , Rossetti Flavio , Rugge Massimo , Cesaro Simone , Aneloni Vittorio , Ninfo Vito , Zanesco Luigi
Published: April 2018

Seventy-two consecutive patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) who had undergone liver biopsy within 3 months of completing chemotherapy were studied to evaluate histological features after 2 to 3 years of chemotherapy and to correlate liver disease to the treatment schedule, the number of transfused blood units, and the identified etiology. Fibrosis due to antiblastic drugs was the most frequent histological finding. Histological liver disease was not related either to the chemotherapy schedule or the number of transfused blood units. HBV with or without delta virus and HCV infections were related to a more severe histological liver disease. In about 40% patients with chronic liver disease, no etiology was demonstrated. Immunohistochemistry revealed HBcAg in the liver of 3 HBsAg-negative patients. In conclusion, liver biopsy could be useful in patients with persistent abnormal liver function tests after the completion of chemotherapy and in patients with markers for hepatotropic virus infection.
Autoimmune Thyroiditis following Interleukin-2 and Lak Cell Therapy for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Correlation with Tumor Regression
Authors: Besana Carlo , Sabbadini Maria Grazia , Corti Consuelo , Di Lucca Giuseppe , Foppoli Marco , Marcatti Magda , Heltai Silvia , Rugarli Claudio
Published: April 2018

A 63-year-old woman receiving recombinant interleukin-2 (rlL-2) + lymphokine activated killer cells for metastatic renal cell carcinoma developed autoimmune thyroiditis with clinical hypothyroidism and high titer anti-thyroglobulin and anti-microsomal antibodies. The onset of thyroid dysfunction was associated with tumor regression and resulted in complete response at the end of the treatment. Cytologic and cytofluorimetric studies on thyroid tissue showed two distinct populations, mainly consisting of small lymphocytes and large thyrocytes, and the latter expressed MHC class II antigens. After completion of rlL-2 treatment, hypothyroidism gradually decreased until resolution; complete tumor remission lasted 18 months. Mechanisms underlying the association between autoimmune thyroiditis and cancer regression are discussed.
Xanthogranulomatous Cholecystitis Associated with Gallbladder Adenocarinoma. A Clinicopathologic Study. of 5 Cases
Authors: Lopez Jose I. , Elizalde Jesus M. , Calvo Miguel A.
Published: April 2018

The simultaneous presence of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis and adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder has rarely been reported. A review of 53 cases of gallbladder adenocarcinoma in a 15-year period revealed 5 cases in which a concomitant diffuse xanthogranulomatous disease was observed. Clinical and pathologic features of these cases are commented and the diagnostic importance stressed. Both inflammatory and neoplastic components were closely mixed in 3 cases, thus making a prompt diagnosis difficult. Etiologic factors implicated in the development of both entities are considered.
Production and Characterization of two Monoclonal Antibodies Directed against the Integrin β1 Chain
Authors: Pellegrini Rita , Bazzini Paola , Tosi Emanuela , Tagliabue Elda , Conforti Grazia , Dejana Elisabetta , Ménard Sylvie , Colnaghi Maria I.
Published: April 2018

The production and characterization of two new monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), designated MAR4 and MAR5, raised against the partially purified α5β1 integrin, are described. The reactivity of these 2 MAbs on tumor cell lines indicated that they reacted on all the cells expressing the β1 subunit independently of the α5 expression. Both MAbs were found to immunoprecipitate on 3 cell lines, a protein of 120 KD corresponding to the molecular weight be the β1 chain, in addition to proteins of other MW corresponding to the α subunits differentially expressed by these cells. The cross-competition experiments showed that MAR4 and MAR5 recognize the same epitope. These 2 MAbs seem to be useful reagents for the characterization of the VLA expression in tumor cells.
Intracystic Papillary Carcinoma of the Male Breast. A Case Report: (Histochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study)
Authors: De Rosa Gaetano , Giordano Giovanna , Boscaino Amedeo , Terracciano Luigi , Donofrio Vittoria , De Dominicis Gianfranco
Published: April 2018

We report a case of intracystic papillary carcinoma of the male breast in a 70-year-old male Caucasian. Grossly, the tumor was a cystic lesion measuring 6 cm in diameter. It contained hemorrhagic fluid and a mural nodule with filiform projections. PAS stain with and without digestion revealed small clumps of diastase-resistent material in the cytoplasm of the neoplastic cells. Grimelius stain was positive. Immunoperoxidase stains were negative for neuron-specific enolase, S100 protein, cromogranin and synaptophysin and were positive for carcinoembryonic antigen and epithelial membrane antigen. On ultrastructural examination the neoplastic cells showed membrane-bound, dense-core secretory granules. We believe that this neoplasm, despite negative neuroendocrine markers, is a variant of mammary adenocarcinoma with endocrine differentiation, partly because of the positive Grimelius stain and partly because of the presence of electron-dense granules, which according to some authors represent lactational differentiation.
A Cross Sectional Survey on Breast Self Examination Practice, Utilization of Breast Professional Examination, Mammography and Associated Factors in Romagna, Italy
Authors: Ferro Salvatore , Caroli Annalisa , Nanni Oriana , Biggeri Annibale , Gambi Angelo
Published: April 2018

In 1988, a cross-sectional survey was carried out in the Romagna region (Italy) to evaluate the association between knowledge of breast pathophysiology and preventive attitudes and screening tests practice for breast cancer. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a sample of asymptomatic women aged 20–64 years living in the city of Faenza (Northern Italy). Of the 657 responders, 58 % reported that they practiced breast self-examination; 55% had had a professional breast examination, and only 9 % had had a mammogram as a screening test. Logistic regression analysis (including variables such as age, education, employment) was performed to explore the relationship between screening tests practice and factors associated with their use. Breast self-examination practice (n = 590) was associated with preventive attitudes (aOR = 1.67, 95°/o CI = 1.09–2.53) and with a positive history of breast disease (aOR = 3.48, 95 % CI = 1.72–7.04). Professional breast examination (n = 480) was related to preventive attitudes (aOR = 2.37, 95 % CI = 1.51–3.71), knowledge of breast pathophysiology (aOR = 2.07, 95 % CI = 1.31–3.28), and use of oral contraceptives (aOR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.12–2.91). Mammography use (n = 540) was associated with preventive attitudes (aOR = 3.08, 95 % CI = 1.40–6.76). The results show an inadequate utilization of screening tests in our population. Breast self-examination is strongly related to a positive history of breast disease, and this could reflect the lack of health educational programs aimed at the general population.
Chromosome Changes in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Vanni Roberta , Scarpa Roberto , Marras Susanna , Valdes Enrico , Usai Enzo
Published: April 2018

Cytogenetic studies have provided a great deal of useful information about the biology and diagnosis of renal cell tumors. Particularly papillary and non-papillary tumors seem to be characterized by different cytogenetic patterns. We report the cytogenetic and histologic analysis of 16 renal tumors, 5 of which showed clonal chromosome changes. Most had chromosome abnormalities which have so far been described as specific of particular histopathologic subgroups.
Cyclophosphamide, Epirubicin, Etoposide, CIS Platinum (CEVP) in Combination with Radiotherapy: Evaluation of a Protocol Adopted for 6 Years in 148 Cases of Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Bamberga Michele , Michetti Giovanni , Bamberga Paolo , Ori-Belometti Mara , Gritti Giovanna , Sarti Enrico , Villa Romeo
Published: April 2018

The present study was carried out with the purpose of assessing and evaluating the responsiveness of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) to combined treatment (i.e., chemotherapy and radiotherapy). This approach was applied to all patients observed in our Institution during the last 6 years with the exclusion of patients more than 65 years old, with Karnofsky performance status less than 60, and with concomitant non-neoplastic diseases. One hundred and forty-eight patients were selected and treated with a combination chemotherapy regimen including cyclophosphamide, etoposide, epirubicin and cis-platinum. For patients with limited disease, treatment consisted of 3 cycles of chemotherapy (induction), followed by radiation therapy and then by another 3 cycles of chemotherapy (consolidation). For those with extensive disease, treatment consisted only of 6 consecutive cycles of chemotherapy. Results, besides showing the good activity and tolerability of the chemotherapeutic regimen employed (which induced 80 % overall response), indicated that some prognostic factors such as the number of metastatic sites, brain and liver involvement and performance status are essential in determining the outcome of response and, particularly, of survival. In addition, the efficacy and tolerability of the combination chemotherapy-radiotherapy were confirmed, as was the evidence of a synergistic pharmacologic effect between cis-platinum and etoposide.
Weekly First-Line Chemotherapy of Metastatic Breast Cancer with Cyclophosphamide and Epirubicin
Authors: Alba Emilio , Blanco Esperanza , Aranda Enrique , Lasso Roberto , Alonso Lorenzo , Belon Joaquin , Garcia Antonio , Sanchez-Chaparro Miguel A. , Breton Juan J.
Published: April 2018

Forty-six patients with metastatic breast cancer who had not received previous chemotherapy for advanced disease entered a phase II trial of weekly chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide (250 mg/m2) + epirubicin (25 mg/m2) for 16 weeks. The overall response rate was 61 % (95 % confidence limits, 47-75 %), with 10 complete and 17 partial responses. Toxicity was mild and confined to nausea and vomiting and asymptomatic neutropenia (except in 2 cases). Sixty-three per cent of patients had no side effects. Weekly cyclophosphamide + epirubicin is an active and nontoxic regimen for patients with metastatic breast cancer who have had no prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy.
Neuroimmunotherapy with Subcutaneous Low-Dose Interleukin-2 and the Pineal Hormone Melatonin as a Second-Line Treatment in Metastatic Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Barni Sandro , Lissoni Paolo , Cazzaniga Marina , Ardizzoia Antonio , Paolorossi Franco , Brivio Fernanrdo , Perego Maristella , Tancini Gabriele , Conti Ario , Maestroni George
Published: April 2018

On the basis of our previous preliminary data which showed that the pineal hormone melatonin (MLT) may potentiate IL-2 activity and reduce the dose of IL-2 required to determine an effective host antitumor response, we performed a clinical study with low-dose IL-2 given once/day subcutaneously (3 million IU/day for 6 days/week for 4 weeks) in association with MLT (50 mg/day orally at 8.00 p.m. every day) as a second-line therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer patients pretreated with 5-fluorouracil. Evaluable patients were 13/14, and most of them showed disseminated liver metastases. No objective tumor regression was seen. A stabilization of disease was achieved in 4/13 patients (median duration 5+ months), and the other 9 patients progressed. Mean number of lymphocytes and eosinophils significantly increased during the treatment. Moreover, the mean increase in lymphocyte number was significantly higher in patients with stable disease than in those with progressive disease, whereas there was no difference as regards eosinophils. Serum levels of neopterin and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) significantly increased during therapy, and TNF increase was correlated to the side effects rather than to the control of cancer development. This study shows that neuroimmunotherapy with low-dose interleukin-2 and MLT, even though capable of determining an evident expansion of immune cells involved in host antitumor response, does not seem to be effective in terms of tumor regression in metastatic colon cancer patients pretreated with 5-fluorouracil.
Radiobiologic and Pathologic Characteristics of the Irradiated Lung and Roentgenographs Aspects
Authors: Guzzon Adalgiso , Milani Franco , Spagnoll Ivo , Danesini Gian Maria , Laffranchi Alberto , Potepan Paolo , Giovannardi Giulia
Published: April 2018

Aims

Experimental radiobiologic factors help to better understand and interpret the development of radiographic alterations in lung tissues due to radiant treatments. In this paper the authors summarize the radiologic factors and technical bases about radiotherapy of the lung.

Methods

The conventional radiologic iconography has been examined in a large series of patients (n = 2151) with iatrogenic pulmonary lesions determined by various types of antineoplastic radiant treatments at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan.

Results

A radiologic control and a long follow-up is essential to assess the successive phases of postactinic lesions due to « passive » irradiation therapy for any type of non-endothoracic tumor as well as those due to « necessary » lung radiotherapy for endothoracic neoplasms.

Conclusions

A strict relation has been found between the aspects in conventional radiologic iconography and the corresponding lesions in the irradiated lung.
First Results of a Mammographic Screening Program in Two Municipalities of Massa-Carrara Province (Italy)
Authors: Paci Luigi , Perfetti Paolo , Zappa Marco , Lazzoni Eumene , Giorgi Daniela , Paci Eugenio , del Turco Marco Rosselli
Published: April 2018

Aims and Background

A mammographic screening for breast cancer was started in 1989 in two municipalities of Massa-Carrara province. This paper describes the results of the first two years and evaluates the quality of the program via early indicators.

Methods

We calculated the attendance rate at first screening, the proportion of women recalled for further examinations (recall rate), the ratio between benign lesions and carcinomas detected by screening, the staging of the screen detected cancers and the ratio between detection rate and expected incidence (P/l ratio).

Results

Out of 14826 invited women 10407 (70.2 %) attended the first screening; 266 (2.6%) of them were referred for further investigations but only 63 (0.6%) required surgical biopsy. A histological confirmed malignancy was found in 39 women corresponding to a detection rate of 3.7/1000. According to pTNM classification 89.1 % of all cancers were either Tis or in stage T1; and in two third of the cases there was no nodes involvment.

Conclusion

The results achieved so far, evaluated via early indicators, show a good start of the program.
Cavitation of Lung Metastases from Bladder Cancer. Report of two Cases
Authors: Angulo Javier C. , Lopez José I. , Flores Nicolas
Published: April 2018

We describe 2 cases of cavitary lung metastasis from bladder cancer and retrospectively analyze the frequency of such an event in our environment. Although rare, this finding is not exceptional and should be taken into account when clinicians and oncologists face the differential diagnosis of pulmonary cavitation. Moreover, a cavitary pulmonary nodule may also be the presenting sign of bladder cancer.
Aggressive Course of Angiofibroma in an HIV-Positive Patient
Authors: Landonio Giuseppe , Nosari Annamaria , Oreste Pierluigi , Cantoni Silvia , Cattaneo Daniela , Ghislandi Enrico
Published: April 2018

We report nasopharyngeal angiofibroma in a 13 year old boy treated with embolization, surgical excision and radiotherapy, which recurred 13 years later. No features of sarcomatous transformation were found, but the tumor had a locally aggressive course, possibly due to the HIV-posltivity of the patient who then died of AIDS. The relations between the clinical course of the tumor and severe immunodeficiency are discussed.
Tamoxifen-Induced Immune-Mediated Platelet Destruction. A Case Report
Authors: Candido Alfonso , Bussa Stefano , Tartaglione Raffaele , Mancini Rosalba , Rumi Carlo , Rossi Pierluigi , Bizzi Bruno
Published: April 2018

Drug-induced immunologic thrombocytopenia, a fairly common disorder, is characterized by drug-dependent antiplatelet antibodies that destroy circulating platelets in the presence of the provoking drug or its metabolites. The development of reliable methods for the detection of platelet-bound immunoglobulins causing in vivo platelet destruction, such as the use of monoclonal antibodies tagged with fluorescein and flow cytofluorimetric analysis, has ushered in a new era to differentiate between immune and non-immune thrombocytopenias. A severe thrombocytopenia developed in an elderly female patient treated with tamoxifen, a non-steroidal antiestrogen drug, after surgery for breast cancer. A tamoxifen-dependent platelet antibody was detected in the patient's serum and linked on the platelet membranes. This antibody reacted only in the presence of the offending drug and showed platelet specificity. Withdrawal of drug restored platelet count to normal levels.
Immunoendocrine Therapy with Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (MPA): A Randomized Study with or without MPA in Metastatic Renal Cancer Patients during IL-2 Maintenance Treatment after Response or Stable Disease to IL-2 Subcutaneous Therapy
Authors: Lissoni Paolo , Barni Sandro , Tancini Gabriele , Brivio Fernando , Cardellini Paolo , Vaghi Massimo , Fossati Vittorio , Frigerio Franco
Published: April 2018

Aims and Background

It is known that interleukin-2 (IL-2) activated cytotoxic lymphocytes require a cell-cell contact to exert their anticancer action. Therefore, the pronounced fibrosis that generally characterizes the neoplastic mass could counteract the action of cytotoxic lymphocytes. Some preliminary studies have shown that progesterone and its analogs may inhibit fibroblast proliferation. On the basis of such evidence, we have designed a clinical study with or without the progestational agent medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in metastatic renal cancer patients in maintenance therapy with IL-2 following response or stable disease (SD) after two cycles of IL-2 subcutaneous immunotherapy, in an attempt to evaluate the influence of MPA on free-from progression (FPP) period.

Methods

The study included 30 consecutive patients who were randomized to receive IL-2 alone (3 mllion IU twice/day for 5 days/month subcutaneously) or IL-2 plus low-dose MPA (500 mg orally one day/week) without interruption until disease progression.

Results

A FPP period longer than 1 year was obtained in 8/14 patients treated with IL-2 plus MPA and in only 3/16 patients treated with IL-2 alone. The difference was statistically significant. On the contrary, no significant difference was seen in the mean number of lymphocytes and eosinophils, which was evaluated monthly. Finally, no hyperglycemic or thromboembolic complications occurred in patients concomitantly treated with MPA.

Conclusions

This preliminary study would suggest that the concomitant administration of low-dose MPA may prolonge the FFP period in metastatic renal cancer patients under maintenance therapy with IL-2. A longer follow-up will be required to evaluate the influence of MPA on overall survival.
Adenosquamous Carcinoma of the Colon. Case Report of an Unusual Type
Authors: Boscaino Amedeo , Orabona Pasquale , Donofrio Vittoria , Mossetti G ennaro , D'Armiento Francesco Paolo
Published: April 2018

Primary adenosquamous carcinoma of the colon is a rare entity. Its prevalent site of origin is at the level of the proximal portion of the large bowel. The tumor presents in young patients and follows a highly aggressive course. We present an extremely unusual case of adenosquamous carcinoma in which the classical mucinous and signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma was associated with the squamous component. The prognosis of this rare neoplasm is very poor.
Neoplasms of Unknown Primary Site: A Clinicopathological Study of Autopsied Patients
Authors: Mayordomo José Ignacio , Guerra Juan Manuel , Guijarro Carlos , García-Prats María Dolores , Gómez Antonio , López-Brea Marta , González Rosa , Hergueta Paloma , López-Pino Miguel Angel , Martínez-Tello Francisco , Cortés-Funes Hernán
Published: April 2018

Background

Malignant neoplasms of an unknown primary site (NUPS) remain a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. With this in mind, we have reviewed all autopsies performed in patients with NUPS in a single institution.

Patients and methods

By reviewing 1656 autopsies performed on adults in our Institution (1974-1990), 43 cases of NUPS were found. (NUPS was defined as histologically proven malignant tumor for which a primary site could not be found after anamnesis, complete physical examination, chest X-ray and routine chemistries.)

Results

There were 24 men (56 %) and 19 women. Mean age was 62 years (76 % of patients were aged 40-75). Clinical presentation included general deterioration (73 %), digestive symptoms (58 %), liver enlargement (58 %) abdominal pain (56 %), respiratory symptoms (45 %), ascites (26 %) and node enlargement (16 %). Abnormalities in analysis and image tests were frequent but nonspecific. Median time from admission to death was 42 days (range, 4-135). Pathologic diagnoses at autopsy were: 23 adenocarcinomas (53 %), arising from pancreas (6), biliary tree (6), lung (3), prostate (2), stomach (1), kidney (1) and unknown (4); 3 squamous carcinomas (5 %) (1 renal pelvis, 1 biliary tree, 1 stomach); 5 undifferentiated carcinomas (1 lung, 4 unknown); and 12 miscellaneous tumors (including 3 lymphomas, 3 neuroendocrine tumors, 3 hepatocarcinomas, 2 mesotheliomas and 1 melanoma). There was a tendency towards a metastatic pattern different from that expected from the primary tumor. Image tests were of little usefulness in the search for the primary tumor.

Conclusions

1) Adenocarciomas were the most frequent tumor presenting as NUPS, especially from the pancreas and biliary tree. 2) In this series, at least 11 % of patients were amenable to standard systemic therapies (3 lymphomas and 2 prostatic adenocarcinomas) if a correct pathologic diagnosis could have been established when alive. 3) Presenting symptoms and metastatic pattern differed from those expected for the primary neoplasm eventually found. 4) Image tests were often misleading as regards the primary site, although they were useful to quantify the dissemination of the tumor.
Carboplatin and Oral Etoposide in the Treatment of Patients with Advanced Breast Cancer Refractory to Anthracyclines
Authors: Fountzilas George , Skarlos Demosthenis , Theoharis Dimitrios , Giannakakis Theodoros , Stathopoulos George
Published: April 2018

Aims and Background

To determine the efficacy and toxicity of the carboplatin and oral etoposide combination in patients with advanced breast cancer previously treated with anthracyclines.

Methods

Twenty-seven patients were treated with a maximum of 6 cycles of carboplatin (300 mg/m2) and etoposide (200 mg/m2) every 4 weeks. Prior treatment with an anthracycline was given as adjuvant in 17 patients and as first line treatment for advanced disease in 10 patients.

Results

Only 12 (44 %) patients completed all 6 cycles of chemotherapy. The median administered dose of carboplatin was 72 mg/m2/week and of etoposide 143 mg/m2/week. Two (7.5 %) complete and 4 (15 %) partial responses were observed. Both complete responses occurred in patients who received only mitoxantrone-containing adjuvant treatment, and lasted for 36 and 92+ weeks. The main toxicities included anemia (56 %), leukopenia (56 %), nausea/vomiting (50 %) and alopecia (79 %).

Conclusions

The combination of carboplatin and oral etoposide is effective and should probably be considered as an alternative therapeutic option for patients with advanced breast cancer refractory to anthracyclines.