bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth Characteristics of Human Colorectal and Non-Small Cell Lung Tumors Xenografted into Nude Mice: Possible Correlation with Prognosis
Authors: Pratesi Graziella , Pezzoni Gabriella , Giardini Roberto , Doci Roberto , Valente Maurizio , Parmiani Giorgio
Published: April 2018

Specimens from human colorectal tumors and from non-small-cell lung tumors obtained at surgery were subcutaneously implanted as xenografts in athymic Swiss mice of both sexes to investigate to what extent the properties of the original tumors were maintained. A successful take was obtained in 5 of 9 colorectal tumor and 6 of 11 non-small-celll lung tumor xenografts. Moreover, 44% and 45% of the respective tumors could be established as tumor lines. Neither metastases nor local tumor invasion was observed in tumor-bearing mice. Seven of 9 serially transplantable tumors had a short latency period (14-30.5 days) when first xeno-grafted. No significant changes in tumor histopathology were noted after growth into nude mice. Tumor take was partially related to clinical stage and prognosis of patients. In fact, 8 of 12 specimens from NO patients failed to grow, whereas 7 of 8 tumors from patients with nodal invasion and/or metastasis grew in nude mice. Moreover, for the group of patients whose tumor was « take – », the one-year survival was 85%, compared to 40% for the « take + » group (p < 0.05).
A Short-Term Chemosensitivity Test with Different Labeled Precursors of DNA or Protein Synthesis: Correlation with Clinical Response
Authors: Viano Ilario , Silvestro Luigi , Infelise Vittorio , Falda Michele , Lovisone Elisabetta , Compagnoni Giuseppina , Genazzani Enrico
Published: April 2018

Blood or bone marrow samples from 15 patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloblastic leukemia undergoing remission induction treatment with daunorubicin, cytosine-arabinoside and 6-thioguanine were tested in vitro. Leukemic cells were incubated for 24 h at 37 °C with or without the drugs alone or in combination. A 3-h pulse with labelled precursors of DNA synthesis (3H-thymidine) or protein synthesis (3H-leucine) was then given separately. In vitro growth, expressed as the percentage ratio between labeled precursor uptake in treated cells and in control cells, was compared with the clinical results obtained. Three patients were not considered evaluable (death occurred too early), 8 had a complete response (CR), and 4 were disease resistant to chemotherapy. Leukemic cells of resistant-disease patients showed a significantly lower growth inhibition than cells taken from CR patients, with each drug alone or in combination, when measured with thymidine. Inhibition of leucine uptake was not related to the clinical outcome.
Preliminary Observations on Intravenous Idarubicin (4-Demethoxydaunorubicin) in the Chronic and Accelerated Phase of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
Authors: Battista Raffaele , D'Emilio Anna , Vespignani Michele , Pacciarini Maria A. , Dini Enrico
Published: April 2018

The study included 13 patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (8 in the chronic phase with high WBC counts at onset, and 5 in the accelerated phase, poorly responding to conventional drugs for the chronic phase). They were treated with 4-demethoxydaunorubicin (idarubicin), a new anthracycline analog more active than daunorubicin (DNR) and doxorubicin (DX) in experimental tumor models which offers a higher therapeutic index than existing anthracyclines. Idarubicin was administered i.v. at the dose of 8 mg/m2 on days 1, 3 and 5. All patients in the chronic phase (8/8) developed significant leukopenia. Five of these 8 patients showed complete reduction of splenomegaly, and 4 of hepatomegaly as well. In all the other cases, hepato-splenomegaly was reduced by more than 70%. Three of the 5 patients in the accelerated phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia also showed massive cytolysis. More important, all of them showed complete or major reduction of hepato-splenomegaly and renewed responsiveness to conventional drugs for the chronic phase of the disease. Idarubicin was fairly well tolerated by all patients with only minor gastrointestinal side effects and no liver damage or acute cardiotoxic effects. These findings indicate that idarubicin – although it cannot replace established drugs for the chronic phase of the disease – represents an added therapeutic resource for producing rapid cytolysis at onset and, above all, in the accelerated phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia.
Prolactin Response to Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone in Early and Advanced Human Breast Cancer
Authors: Barni Sandro , Lissoni Paolo , Tancini Gabriele , Crispino Sergio , Paolorossi Franco , Rovelli Franco , Fumagalli Gabriele , Ferri Luigi
Published: April 2018

While prolactin (PRL) has been shown to stimulate the development of mammary carcinoma in several animal species, its role in human breast cancer remains to be established. To further investigate PRL secretion in human breast cancer, its basal levels and response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) were evaluated in 16 patients (6 with no metastases and 10 with metastatic locations). The control group consisted of 19 healthy women. High PRL basal concentrations were seen in 2 patients only; no significant differences were found between the other patients and the normal subjects. The PRL increase induced by TRH administration was significantly higher in patients than in controls. Finally a change in the hormonal secretion was found after chemotherapy in 3 of the 5 patients in whom PRL response to TRH was evaluated either before or 10-12 days after a cycle of intravenous CMF adjuvant chemotherapy. These results demonstrate the existence of an exaggerated response of PRL to TRH in patients with breast cancer, even in the presence of normal basal levels. Moreover, they would seem to suggest a possible influence of CMF on PRL response to TRH stimulation.
Long-Term Survival and Complete Response to Adriamycin and Etoposide in a Case of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Giaccone Giuseppe , Bonardi Gianmaria , Leria Gabriella , Donadio Michela , Calciati Alessandro
Published: April 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma has a poor prognosis and is poorly responsive to systemic chemotherapy. Here we describe a case with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma who achieved a complete response and has survived for more than 2 years, following treatment with a combination of adriamycin and etoposide (VP 16-213).
Significance of Histologic Grading in the Prognosis of Ovarian Tumors
Authors: Gáti Éva , Sugár János , Szentirmay Zoltán , Töttössy Béla
Published: April 2018

The prognostic significance of a histologic grading system was studied by an analysis of pathological specimens from 73 patients with ovarian epithelial cancers and tumors of borderline malignancies (tumors of low malignant potential) collected over a period of 25 years. The survival probability of patients in each group was analyzed by a computer program based on the product limit of Kaplan and Meier. The histologic grading scheme based on the presence of papillary formations or glands versus the presence of solid tumor nests proved to be prognostically significant for patients with stage I and II disease. The other grading system, based on cytologic features, was able to stratify survival rates into three instead of two groups distinguished by the histologic grading system. The survival of patients with moderately and poorly differentiated tumors was essentially the same. No difference was found between the prognoses of patients with cytologic grades 3 and 4.
Steward's Midline Granuloma
Authors: Polico Cesare , Corti Luigi , Rigori Alberto , Luppi Leone , De Stefani Giovan Battista , Migliorini Vittorio
Published: April 2018

Steward's type of neoplastic disease is rare. Much has been discussed on the histopathology of this granuloma. Most authors define it as a neoplasm of the lymphoid system, and it is a subgroup of the « midline granuloma syndrome ». We report a case of a 19-year-old first treated with chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide and prednisone) and then with radiotherapy, with good results.
Formation, Growth and Morphology of Multicellular Tumor Spheroids from a Human Colon Carcinoma Cell Line (LoVo)
Authors: Soranzo Carla , Della Torre Gabriella , Ingrosso Antonella
Published: April 2018

LoVo human colon carcinoma cells cultured by a liquid overlay technique form and grow as multicellular tumor spheroids. The growth curve of LoVo spheroids exhibits Gompertzian growth kinetics, i.e., exponential growth for 10 days, followed by exponential retardation in the rate of growth. Doubling time in the exponential growth phase is longer than in monolayer cultures (5 days for LoVo spheroids vs. 37 h for monolayers). When LoVo spheroids reach a diameter of about 300 ūm, a necrotic core appears in their center and continuously increases with spheroid growth. The cell ultrastructure and organization in spheroids closely resemble those of the same cells when grown as tumors in vivo or as monolayer, i.e. intestinal epithelium, desmosomes, intracytoplasmic lumina and acinar structures. Individual cells from spheroids can be obtained by trypsinization and assayed for colony formation. LoVo spheroids provide a model which can be readily manipulated and appears to be suitable for evaluation of anticancer drugs. A comparison of LoVo spheroids exposed to doxorubicin with the same cells grown in monolayers emphasized the role of cell organization in determining drug resistance.
Liposarcoma of the Thyroid Gland
Authors: Nielsen Vibeke T. , Knudsen Nancy , Holm Ida E.
Published: April 2018

The presumed first case of primary liposarcoma of the thyroid gland is presented, and the possible origin of this rare tumor from either mature fat cells or primitive mesenchymal cells is discussed.
Leiomyoma of the Esophagus
Authors: Preda Ferdinando , Alloisio Marco , Lequaglie Cosimo , Ongari Mauro , Ravasi Gianluigi
Published: April 2018

A review of the clinical records from 1947 to 1984 of the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan provided 20 cases (14 males and 6 females) of esophageal leiomyoma. Eighteen of the tumors were in the thoracic esophagus and 2 were at the cardiac level. The most frequent symptoms were dysphagia, slight epigastralgia and odynophagia. Differential diagnosis should be made with mediastinic neoplasms and esophageal cancer. Barium swallow and esophagoscopy are the most sensitive procedures for a correct preoperative diagnosis. Surgery is mandatory because of the tendency to a continuous endoluminal growth (in 97% of the cases) and a possible malignant transformation. However, surgery is conservative: extramucosal enucleation of the leiomyoma is the procedure of choice. The long-term results are excellent, and morbidity is acceptable.
Augmentation of Hydroxyurea Cytotoxicity by Sintamil in Human Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Pradhan Seema G. , Chitnis Manik P. , Basrur Vathsala S. , Satyamoorthy K. , Advani Suresh H.
Published: April 2018

The in vitro effect of sintamil, as a modulator alone and in combination with hydroxyurea (HU), on cytotoxicity was studied in 16 cases of human chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). We investigated the cytotoxicity of the drugs as a function of the exposure dose (HU, 10−4 M; sintamil, 10 μg/ml) and the exposure time (1 h) to the agent. Cytotoxicity was evaluated as the inhibition of incorporation of [3H-methyl]thymidine in the nucleic acids of CML cells. Cytotoxicity of HU was greatly enhanced (P < 0.001) by 1 h exposure of the CML cells to sintamil. The present data indicate that sintamil potentiates the cytotoxic activity of HU in CML cells.
Plasma Cell Granuloma of the Lung (Inflammatory Pseudotumor)
Authors: Fassina Ambrogio S. , Rugge Massimo , Scapinello Antonio , Viale Giuseppe , Dell'Orto Patrizia , Ninfo Vito
Published: April 2018

A case of plasma cell granuloma (PCG) of the lung in a 54-year old man is reported. PCG is a rare benign lesion that usually presents as a solitary nodule in the lung (coin lesion) at routine X-ray examination. Microscopically it consists of a granulomatous tissue where the major components are mature plasma cells. The immunohistochemical demonstration of poly-clonality of plasma cells, excluding the diagnosis of plasmacytoma, confirms the inflammatory pseudotumoral nature of this lesion, although the etiology remains obscure. The presence of lymphocytes, histiocytes, macrophages, blood vessels with prominent endothelial cells and peripheral sclero-hyalinized connective tissue may pose problems in the differential diagnosis, with sclerosing hemangioma, pseudolymphoma, nodular amyloidosis, pulmonary hyalinizing granuloma, chronic abscess and neoplasms of true histiocytic origin. The term inflammatory pseudotumor is preferable in describing this type of lesion.
Serial Transplantation of a Human Acute T Lymphoblastic Leukemia into Nude Mice
Authors: Martinotti Maria Giovanna , Arione Roberto , Foà Roberto , Pegoraro Luigi , Jemma Cristina , Forni Guido
Published: April 2018

A human acute T lymphoblastic leukemia line (PF-382) was serially transplanted into nude mice. No takes were observed in untreated nude mice, whereas solid tumors were observed in splenectomized and total body, sublethally irradiated mice. The minimal tumor-inducing dose and the latency time remained unchanged after the third and fifth serial transplants. Moreover, leukemic cells recovered from the 8th in vivo passages displayed the same differentiation antigens and chromosomal markers as the in vitro PF-382 cell line used for the first transplant. This stable and well-characterized experimental system could be a new model for T-lymphocyte differentiation and immune-reactivity against human leukemias.
The Role of Radiation Therapy in the Management of Primary Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas of the Central Nervous System: Clinical Study of 10 Cases
Authors: Di Marco Adriano , Rosta Luisa , Campostrini Franco , Bonetti Andrea , Palazzi Mario , Garusi Gianfranco
Published: April 2018

A series of 10 patients with a primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the central nervous system were observed and treated by the authors. All were diagnosed after a pathologic examination of the surgical material; the lesions were supratentorial in all cases and unifocal in 9. In every case radiation therapy improved clinical conditions and in most cases even radiologic features of the patients. Four patients were alive and without evidence of disease many months after therapy. Four patients died with a relapse in the central nervous system; 3 of them had disseminated disease at the time of death. Two patients died for an unknown cause. Radiation therapy was performed with 60Co source with 2 opposed portals and the whole brain irradiation technique in all cases but 2. Doses ranged from 35 to 54 Gy. The recent literature on this uncommon disease and the most adequate therapeutic possibilities of radiation therapy and chemotherapy, or both, are discussed.
Psychologic Effects and Esthetic Results of Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Authors: Filiberti Antonio , Tamburini Marcello , Murra Luciana , Lovo Gino Franco , Ventafridda Vittorio , Arioli Nazzareno , Grisotti Andrea
Published: April 2018

A survey was conducted on 84 patients who chose to have breast reconstruction after mastectomy. A self-rating questionnaire was sent to each patient by mail to collect as much information about the patient as possible: individual status, reasons for requesting breast reconstruction, acceptance and advantages of having the new breast, satisfaction with the overall esthetic results, amount of patient information regarding breast reconstruction, and the source of this information. Once the questionnaire was completely filled out, it was returned by mail to the persons conducting this study. Fourty-three patients (51% of sample) replied with a completed questionnaire. When all the data for this survey were collected, an interesting factor emerged: 33 patients (76.7% of those who replied) reported being substantially satisfied with the esthetic results of their operation. When asked about the reasons for requesting breast reconstruction, 16 patients asserted their request was based on the desire to prove to themselves that they had overcome the disease, and 16 to improve body image. When asked about the advantages of breast reconstruction, 17 patients believed the operation would help improve inner feelings about the loss of the breast. Thus breast reconstruction is indeed an element of prime importance to mastectomized women, especially for their physical and psychological rehabilitation.
Paranasal Sinuses and Nasal Cavity Cancer: Different Radiotherapeutic Options, Results and Late Damages
Authors: Olmi Patrizia , Celiai Enrico , Chiavacci Andrea , Fallai Carlo
Published: April 2018

From 1970 to 1983, 69 patients, affected by malignant epithelial tumors of paranasal cavities and nasal fossae, were treated with radiotherapy at the Radiology Institute of the University and Radiotherapy Hospital Department of Florence. Primary carcinoma of the maxillary sinus occurred in 44 patients, of the nasal cavity in 20, and of the other sinuses in 5. Most of the patients had locally advanced lesions (63 T3-4: 91.5%) according to the adopted TNM system (Lederman-Gadeberg, Sisson-Jesse). Crude survival data showed 35% and 13% of NED patients at 2 and 5 years, respectively. Local progression was the most important cause of death; patients relapsed within 2 years. The actuarial 5-year survival, corrected for causes of death other than disease, was 32% for the overall series, 32% for maxillary sinus, and 41% for the nasal cavity. There was no difference in survival in patients treated with conventional fractionation (CF) vs. multiple daily fractionation (MDF) –30% vs. 33% at 5 years. The late damages of the radiation therapy in 22 patients without local disease, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years, is also analyzed.
A Light Microscopic and Ultrastructural Study of Two Cases of Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Andreola Salvatore , Audisio Riccardo A. , Lombardi Luciano
Published: April 2018

We describe two cases of fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma of the liver in two young women. Both patients presented with diffuse intra-abdominal metastases; nevertheless they had a survival of 28 and 32 months, respectively, which sustains the better prognosis of this neoplasm. Electron microscopy of one case confirmed the oncocytic features of the neoplastic cells and showed intra- and intercellular duct-like vacuoles with numerous microvilli containing a microfilament core that terminated in a terminal web, which represents an unusual aspect in the spectrum of differentiation of fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma.
Diagnostic Accuracy of a New Tumor Serologic Marker, CA 19-9: Comparison with CEA
Authors: Civardi Giuseppe , Cerri Luigi , Cavanna Luigi , Fornari Fabio , Di Stasi Michele , Binelli Franco
Published: April 2018

Two hundred and twenty-one hospitalized patients underwent serum determination of CA 19-9, a recently developed tumor marker assay, and CEA. Among these, 53 had a gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, 59 a GI benign disease, 52 a non-GI cancer, and 57 a non-GI benign disease. CA 19-9 assay was more accurate than CEA to detect malignancy, especially of GI source (69.8% sensitivity vs. 24.5% in GI patients); when a cutoff level of 41 ng/ml for CA 19-9 was considered, only 6 false-positive cases were found and both markers showed excellent specificity (94.9% for CEA and 89.9% for CA 19-9 in gastric, hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancer). We conclude that CA 19-9 is a useful GI tumor marker and it seems to be better than CEA in some pathologic situations.
Successful Treatment of Malignant Trophoblastic Diseases in a Small Oncologic Unit
Authors: Kuoppala Tapio , Kivinen Seppo , Kauppila Antti
Published: April 2018

Between 1962 and 1983 a total of 26 patients with malignant trophoblastic disease were diagnosed in northern Finland. The incidence of this disease was 1:21,000 pregnancies. Eight patients had choriocarcinoma and 18 an invasive mole. Clinically, 15 patients belonged to the nonmetastatic and 11 to the metastatic group. Of the latter, 4 patients belonged to the Iow-and 7 to the high-risk categories. During the first years of the study period, cytotoxic chemotherapy, mostly single-drug therapy, was often complemented with adjunctive surgery and/or irradiation. During recent years, single- or multidrug chemotherapy was supplemented with surgery in only one case with chemotherapy-resistant pulmonary metastases. All 26 patients are alive and disease-free, and after therapy 6 of them have given birth to 1-3 children. Our results suggest that malignant trophoblastic diseases can be successfully treated also in small centers of gynecologic oncology with up-to-date knowledge of the principles of modern cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Ultrastructural Analysis of Epidermal Hyperplasia Induced by Multiple 12-0-Tetradecanoyl-Phorbol-13-Acetate (TPA) Treatment of Mouse Skin
Authors: Bhisey Rajani A. , Sirsat Satyavati M.
Published: April 2018

Stationary epidermal hyperplasia induced by exposure of mouse skin to 1-6 TPA applications was analyzed by electron microscopy and found to be of two types. Intermingled orderly and irregularly stratified hyperplastic regions observed prominently after a single TPA application gave way, on multiple treatment, to epidermal hyperplasia populated by either cuboidal cells with expanded cytoplasm or by highly polar, narrow, tall and pleomorphic cells. Both cell types were poorly differentiated and displayed a paucity of intact desmosomal junctions, resulting in an incohesive tissue structure in which a number of phenotypic variants were expressed. The variants were markedly less mature than the adjacent cells and showed basal cell phenotype, acquisition of secretory activity or a disturbed mitotic process, resulting in the formation of binucleated cells. The observations suggest that the disturbed mitotic process, poor cellular differentiation and induction of metaplasia could be the mode by which an initiated cell may express its tumor phenotype and escape differentiation during the early stage of TPA promotion.
Topical Administration of Tetrasodium-Mesotetraphenyl-Porphinesulfonate (TPPS) and Red Light Irradiation for the Treatment of Superficial Neoplastic Lesions
Authors: Sacchini Virgilio , Melloni Elsa , Marchesini Renato , Fabrizio Tommaso , Cascinelli Natale , Santoro Olivia , Zunino Franco , Andreola Salvatore , Bandieramonte Gaetano
Published: April 2018

In photodynamic therapy, systemic administration of photosensitizing agents induces cutaneous photosensitization in patients. This side-effect can be avoided by topical administration of the agents when only surface lesions are involved. A hydroalcoholic solution of tetrasodium-meso-tetraphenylporphinesulfonate (TPPS) containing Azone, a percutaneous penetration enhancer, was investigated to evaluate its photosensitizing potential in the treatment of 33 primary and recurrent neoplastic lesions of the skin. A complete remission was obtained of lesions with clinical thickness of less than 2 nun. Treatment effectiveness depends on both light and drug penetration through skin. Further studies are in progress to optimize treatment parameters.
Tissue Polypeptide Antigen (TPA) in Pleural Effusions
Authors: Parazzi Fiamma , Faravelli Bruno , Gallo Luigi , Nosenzo Marco , Razzetti Alfredo , Barone Daniela , Bandelloni Roberto , D'Amore Eugenio
Published: April 2018

The usefulness of tumor marker assay in pleural effusions for differential diagnosis is still debated. From the observation of common antigens on tissue polypeptide antigen (TPA) and keratins 8, 18 and 19 and vimentin, all substances contained in normal and neoplastic mesothelium, we felt it opportune to evaluate the use of TPA assay in 105 pleural effusions (46 benign and 59 malignant). The values were much higher than those found in blood. In hydrothorax the median value was 454 U/l (range, 59–1923), in exudative effusions 846 U/l (range, 258–4485), in metastatic pleural effusions 1277 U/l (range, 58–32352) and in mesotheliomas 7705 (range, 759–16000). The maximum value found in nonmalignant effusions was 4485 U/l; this value was taken as a cutoff level, so only 29.9 % of the tumors were positive to the test. Our results showed this assay to be not very important for a differential diagnosis of malignant and nonmalignant pleural effusions. Nevertheless, the different TPA patterns in mesotheliomas (66.6 % positive) and metastatic pleural effusions (15.9 %) suggest that further studies are warranted.
Measurement of Ferritin-Bearing Lymphocytes in Man. Preliminary Studies on the Use of Monoclonal Antibodies Specific for the L and H Subunits of Ferritin
Authors: Ciriello Maria Matilde , Cazzola Mario , Dezza Laura , Levi Sonia , Arosio Paolo
Published: April 2018

We used the monoclonal antibodies LFO3 (specific for the L subunit of ferritin) and 2A4 (specific for the H subunit) in an indirect immunofluorescence test for enumerating ferritin-bearing lymphocytes (FBL). In 13 normal subjects, the geometric mean value of FBL was 4 % (range 0–13 %) with the monoclonal antibody LFO3, and 3 % (range 0–8 %) with the monoclonal antibody 2A4. Values in 5 subjects with transfusional iron overload and increased plasma L-type ferritin concentration were 5 % (4–7 %) and 3 % (2–4 %), respectively, which is similar to those in normal subjects. Thirteen patients with malignant disease had normal to increased values for plasma ferritin; the circulating protein was largely of L-type with undetectable or very low concentrations of H-type ferritin. In the same patients, the percentage of FBL was greater with the monoclonal antibody 2A4 (geometric mean value 8 %; range 3–12 %) than with the monoclonal antibody LFO3 (geometric mean value 3 %; range, 1–7 %). It is concluded that acidic and basic isoferritins can be differently expressed on the surface of peripheral blood lymphocytes, and that the monoclonal 2A4 could be particularly useful in the measurement of FBL in patients with malignancy.
Prognostic Factors in Advanced Metastatic and Recurrent Melanoma Treated with DTIC
Authors: Pawlicki Marek , Skolyszewski Jan , Stryjewska Barbara , Nosek Henryk
Published: April 2018

Thirty-five patients with recurrent and 25 patients with metastatic malignant melanoma after previous radical locoregional surgery were treated with DTIC at the Institute of Oncology in Krakow between 1976 and 1981. Complete and partial remissions were observed in 19/60, i.e., in 31 % of the patients. Our results show an advantage for patients with locoregional recurrence, soft-tissue and lung metastases, provided that the largest deposit is no larger than 5 cm in diameter. There is little chance of remission in patients with liver and bone metastases.
Incidence of Breast Cancer in Piedmont: 1979–1981
Authors: Cappa Alberto Pier Mario , Bertiond Giancarlo , Colombo Alessandro , Faggiano Fabrizio , Gussio Margherita , Merletti Franco , Terracini Benedetto , Toniolo Paolo , Boffetta Paolo
Published: April 2018

A population-based survey of histologically diagnosed breast cancer was carried out among residents in Piedmont. A total of 5267 incident cases occurring in 1979–1981 was collected, corresponding to an age-standardized (on the world population) incidence rate of 49.5/100,000 per year. Rates (standardized on the population of Piedmont in 1981) were highest in the city of Torino (112.4/100,000 per year) and lowest in the province of Cuneo (67.5), whereas in the other provinces they ranged between 85.3 and 90.0. Estimation of rates in the 54 Local Health Authorities of Piedmont detected up to 2-fold differences between adjacent areas. A correlation was found between rates and size of the population of town of residence. Comparison with age-specific incidence rates from the Cancer Registry of the nearby province of Varese suggested a loss of nonhistologically confirmed cases selectively in older age groups. The distribution of cases diagnosed in 1979 by histologic type is presented. The proportion of diagnoses reported in terms which were consistent with the 1978 WHO Histological Typing of Breast Tumours was 61.3%. It was highest among cases identified in Pathology Services located in University Hospitals and/or diagnosing more than 50 breast cancers per year.
«4 S» Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Binding Protein: Further Characterization and Kinetic Properties
Authors: Masucci Maria Teresa , Petrillo Antonella , Sica Vincenzo
Published: April 2018

A protein that binds polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with high affinity and sediments in a sucrose gradient at 4 S has been described in rat liver cytosol. This « 4 S » PAH binding protein precipitates at a 40–60% ammonium sulfate saturation. This partial purification procedure allows assay of this protein by using purified 3H-benzo(a)pyrene (3H-BaP) as radioactive ligand and dextran-coated charcoal as adsorbent for unreacted 3H-BaP. The 3H-BaP binding activity measured as a function of pH shows its maximum activity between pH 7.3 and 10.5. The « 4 S » PAH binding protein is stable up to 42 °C even in the absence of the ligand. At 65 °C the binding sites for 3H-BaP are destroyed. The binding activity assayed as a function of protein concentration is linear between 0.4 and 2 mg/ml at 0 °C, whereas at 37 °C higher protein concentrations (4 mg/ml) can be reached. Exposure to guanidine-HCl (3 M) and urea (5 M) for 20 min at 4 °C inhibits the PAH binding completely to the « 4 S » protein. Quick dilution or dialysis does not restore the binding activity. The dissociation rate of the « 4 S » PAH binding protein measured in the presence of an excess of unlabeled ligand at 0 °C is biphasic and shows a two-step, first-order kinetic pattern. At 37 °C the dissociation rate is linear and faster, and is complete after 5 min of incubation. The association rate shows the same behavior: the binding is complete after 10 min at 0 °C, whereas at 37 °C the reaction is 10 times as fast. The dissociation equilibrium constants at 0 °C and 37 °C are respectively 2.45 × 10−9 M and 1.09×10−9 M. The high rates of association and dissociation of BaP to « 4 S » PAH binding protein were used to set up an assay to exchange radioactive 3H-BaP with cold BaP.
Comparison of Chromosome Aberration Frequency before and after Administration of 131I in Two Groups of Thyroid Cancer Patients
Authors: Ardito Giuseppe , Lamberti Laura , Bigatti Paola , Cottino Francesco
Published: April 2018

The chromosome aberration frequencies of 10 thyroid cancer patients, before and after their first radioiodine treatment (group A), were compared to the frequencies found in another 10 subjects previously treated with two or more radioiodine administrations (group B). Our data show that the relative increase in chromosome-type aberrations was similar in the two groups: from 2.0% to 3.7% (group A) and from 4.7% to 9.0% (group B). However, the increase in the number of cells with aberrations was greater in group A. Moreover, the higher frequency of aberrations in group B, even before the radioiodine treatment, points out the effect of previous treatments and demonstrates the persistence of this type of lesion. The sister chromatid exchange frequency in the two groups was also analysed, but no effect bound to the radioiodine treatment could be demonstrated.
Proliferative Activity in Human Urologic Malignancies: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Veronese Silvio , Volpe Rachele , Dal Bo Virgilio , Francini Marcello , Carbone Antonino , Boiocchi Mauro
Published: April 2018

Cellular proliferative activity was evaluated by the determination of 3H-thymidine labeling index (LI) in 20 specimens of human urologic malignancies (13 renal cell carcinomas and 7 transitional cell bladder carcinomas). Very low LI values were found in renal cell carcinomas, with a median value of 0.28%. Slightly higher proliferative activities were observed in bladder carcinomas, with a median LI value of 1.96%. No significant correlations were found between proliferative activity and pathologic stage or histologic grading in renal cell carcinomas. Although the number of bladder carcinomas evaluated does not allow any definite conclusion, an increase in LI values was found from in situ to invasive carcinoma and from tumors at stage I to tumors at stage III.
Comparison of CA 125 and Placental Alkaline Phosphatase as Ovarian Tumor Markers
Authors: Heinonen Pentti K. , Kallioniemi Olli-Pekka , Koivula Timo
Published: April 2018

The serum concentrations of CA 125 and placental alkaline phosphatase were analyzed in 16 patients with ovarian cancer. Increased serum levels of CA 125 and placental alkaline phosphatase were observed in 75% and 50% of the cancer patients, respectively. The serum levels of these tumor markers were not correlated, supporting their distinct antigenic nature. CA 125 seems to be a more promising tumor marker for ovarian cancer than placental alkaline phosphatase.
Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate, 5-Fluorouracil, Alternating with Adriamycin and Mitomycin C in Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cruciani Giorgio , Tienghi Amelia , Molinari Anna Lia , Fiorentini Giammaria , Rosti Giovanni , Turci Daniele , Marangolo Maurizio
Published: April 2018

To explore the clinical applicability of the Goldie and Coldman hypothesis, we treated 28 patients with metastatic breast cancer with alternating non-cross-resistant chemotherapy. The patients received cyclophosphamide, 600 mg/m2, 5-fluorouracil, 600 mg/m2, methotrexate, 40 mg/m3, alternated every three weeks with adriamycin, 60 mg/m2, and mitomycin C, 10 mg/m2. Only one patient had previously received palliative chemotherapy. Six patients had received adjuvant CMF, and 17 patients had been pretreated with endocrine therapy (13 for advanced disease, 4 as adjuvant). Fourteen patients had bone involvement, and 10 had visceral metastases. A mean of 12 cycles was given to 24 evaluable patients. The objective response rate was 67%: 11 patients (46%) achieved complete and 5 (21%) partial remission. Response rate in soft tissues was 83.3%, in bone 50%, in liver 100%, and in lung 80%. The median duration of response was 14 months, with 7 patients still in remission. No life-threatening toxicity was observed. Our preliminary results support the validity of this approach and the efficacy of this combination chemotherapy. A large-scale randomized study is warranted.
Practical Importance of Routine Paraffin-Embedded Bone Marrow Biopsy in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Carbone Antonino , Manconi Riccardo , Sulfaro Sandro , Vaccher Emanuela , Zagonel Vittorina , Poletti Alessandro , Volpe Rachele , Tirelli Umberto , Monfardini Silvio
Published: April 2018

Paraffin-embedded bone marrow biopsy specimens obtained prior to (37) or after (25) therapy from 62 patients with multiple myeloma (MM) were analyzed with particular reference to infiltration pattern, extent of infiltration, and myeloid to myeloma tissue percentage ratio (MMR) to verify their mutual relationships and clinicopathologic relevance. Fifty-nine biopsies were evaluable for infiltration pattern (diffuse in 27, interstitial in 25, and nodular in 7). Diffuse and interstitial patterns were more common (P < 0.025) in stage III and stage I patients, respectively. A higher (P < 0.001) mean serum paraprotein level was found in patients with’ the diffuse pattern than in those with the interstitial pattern. The average extent of infiltration by myeloma cells in the residual myeloid tissue was higher (P < 0.001) and a high extent (75% or more) was more frequently (P < 0.005) seen in diffuse than in interstitial pattern cases. The average MMR value was lower (P < 0.001) and a MMR value less than 1 was more frequently (P < 0.005) seen in the diffuse pattern group than in the interstitial pattern group. All these differences were present also when a separate analysis was performed for treated and untreated patients. It seems that a diffuse histologic pattern, as opposed to interstitial, would significantly predict a bone marrow extent of infiltration of 75% or more, a MMR lower than 1, a higher serum paraprotein level, and a clinical stage III. Bone marrow biopsy appears thus to play a role in providing parameters of prognostic relevance in MM also in the course of the disease. Prospective studies are needed to establish whether histologic pattern has an independent prognostic value.
A Preliminary Clinical Experience with Reduced Glutathione as Protector against Cisplatin-Toxicity
Authors: Oriana Saro , BÖhm Silvia , Spatti Giambattista , Zunino Franco , Di Re Francesco
Published: April 2018

A total of 16 consecutive patients (15 with ovarian cancer and 1 with unknown adenocarcinoma) were treated with a standard regimen including cisplatin and cyclophosphamide or with the same regimen in combination with reduced glutathione as potential protective agent against cisplatin nephrotoxicity, in a non-randomized study. Reduced glutathione (1500 mg/m2) was administered prior to each cisplatin administration (90 mg/m2) to seven patients for a maximum of five consecutive courses. A standard hydration protocol without diuretics was used. The patients received a total of 33 courses with glutathione. Glutathione was well tolerated, since it did not produce appreciable side effects. Cisplatin and glutathione combination did not produce unexpected toxicity. Two patients treated with standard regimen without glutathione developed a transient nephrotoxicity. The severity of myelosuppression was reduced following glutathione administration. Moreover, the therapeutic efficacy was not impaired by glutathione pretreatment.
The Role of Combination Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Cisplatin (Cap) Chemotherapy in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Costa Rafael Rosell , Abad-Esteve Alberto , Cutilles Jordi Roig , Solorzano Isabel Moreno , Marcial Cristina Fernandez , Mundo Manuel Ribas
Published: April 2018

Thirty-one patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), stage III (T3 N2 M 0-1), were treated with cyclophosphamide (400 mg/m2), adriamycin (40 mg/m2) and cisplatin (60 mg/m2) (CAP) every 4 weeks for 8 cycles. Twenty-six patients were evaluable for response. Patients characteristics included: median age, 63 years; median performance status, 70% (range 60% -100%). One hundred and fifty-five cycles of chemotherapy were administered with a median of 5. There were 9 partial responses and 3 complete remissions, for an overall response rate of 46%. The median survival duration was 9 months, and 29% survived 1 year. CAP combination chemotherapy was well tolerated without nephrotoxicity, which can be imputed to the strong saline hydration given. Seventy percent of the patients did not experience emesis due to the antiemetic regimen used.
Aminoglutethimide in Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Refractory to Multiple Hormonal and Cytostatic Treatments
Authors: Zambetti Milvia , Brambilla Cristina , Tancini Gabriele , Bonadonna Gianni
Published: April 2018

Eighty-seven consecutive patients with metastatic breast cancer were treated with aminoglutethimide plus hydrocortisone. All patients were postmenopausal and had progressive disease following prior chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. Eighty-five women were evaluable for drug response. One patient showed complete remission and 14 patients partial response, for an overall response rate of 17%. The median duration of response was 11+ months. The response rate was highest in the presence of soft tissue involvement (36%). The most common side effects were transient skin rash, lethargy, and dizziness. Two patients discontinued treatment because of cutaneous allergy. Aminoglutethimide can be considered a moderately active agent when utilized as second- or third-line hormonal therapy.
A Clinico-Pathologic Study of Clear-Cell Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Audisio Riccardo A. , Bombelli Luigia , Lombardi Luciano , Andreola Salvatore
Published: April 2018

We reviewed the pathologic and clinical features of 7 cases of clear-cell hepatocellular carcinomas. Tumor cells had a typical clear, empty cytoplasm due to prominent accumulation of glycogen and lipid droplets, as demonstrated by ultrastructural study in one of our cases. Follow-up of the 7 patients did not confirm the better prognosis of this tumor reported by other investigators. The clinical course of our cases was more unfavorable than that of the other 130 cases of usual hepatocellular carcinomas treated at this Institute.
Trisomy 21 in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Authors: Singal Usha , Shah-Reddy Ila , Koppitch Fred
Published: April 2018

We present a case of a 64-year-old male, diagnosed to have acute promyelocytic leukemia with trisomy 21. He came to the hospital with bleeding secondary to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Promyelocytes in the blood and bone marrow contained abundant, prominent azurophilic granules. Cytogenetic studies revealed trisomy 21. The karyotypic abnormality reverted back to normal 46,XY, pattern after chemotherapy. The typical morphologic and cytogenetic features of acute promyelocytic leukemia are briefly discussed.
Metastases to the Submaxillary Gland from Breast Cancer: Case Report
Authors: Rosti Giovanni , Callea Antonina , Merendi Rino , Beccati Donatella , Tienghi Amelia , Turci Daniele , Marangolo Maurizio
Published: April 2018

A case of metastases to the submaxillary gland from breast carcinoma is reported. The patient, a 68-year-old female, had been operated for a stage II N+ breast carcinoma 4 years before. She then received six courses of CMF adjuvant program. A literature review is presented concerning the 8 well-documented cases reported.
Atypical Carcinoid of the Larynx: Case Report
Authors: Brisigotti Massimo , Fabbretti Giovanna , Lanzanova Giuseppe , Brugneri Ezio Russo , Presutti Livio , Artoni Stefano
Published: April 2018

The authors describe a rare case of laryngeal atypical carcinoid. They discuss the histologic pattern of the neoplasm and the differential diagnosis of laryngeal tumors, particularly with oat-cell carcinoma. These tumors represent a spectrum of neoplasms with endocrine differentiation.
In Vitro and in Vivo Studies of Poly-L-Lysine as Inducer of Friend Leukemic Cells Differentiation
Authors: Supino Rosanna , Gibelli Nadia , Nano Rosanna , Pezzoni Gabriella , Zunino Franco
Published: April 2018

Poly-L-lysine, a synthetic cationic polypeptide known for its ability to bind to cell membranes, was found to induce differentiation of Friend leukemia cells « in vitro ». Studies were extended to the same « in vivo » model, in order to examine the therapeutic potential of this new differentiating agent. The i.p. administration of the polymer (Mw 2700) at the maximal tolerated dose resulted in major alterations of disease-related parameters. In particular, a multiple treatment schedule on the advanced disease resulted in a successful reduction of target organ weight and peripheral white blood cell count and appreciable differentiation of spleen and bone marrow cells. Apparently, the effects of poly-L-lysine were superior to those produced by N-methyl-acetamide, a potent inducer of differentiation « in vitro ».
Unusual Interstitial Deletion of the 8q 12 Band in a Case of Acute Monocytic Leukemia
Authors: D'Alessandro Elvira , Paterlini Patrizia , Menaguale Luigia , Lo Re Maria Luisa , Del Porto Giuseppe , Quaglino Dennis
Published: April 2018

The authors describe a case of acute monocytic leukemia with a clonal deletion of the 8q12 band as a single chromosomal aberration. On the basis of this and other reports from the literature, they suggest that the 8q1 region, hitherto considered significantly involved in solid tumors, may be important also for hematologic malignancies.
Enzymuria in Carboplatin Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Damiani Eugenia , Cattaneo Maria Teresa , Sessa Cristina , Zucca Emanuele , Cavalli Franco , Bertolini Alessandro , Libretti Arnaldo , Beretta Renato
Published: April 2018

Urinary excretion of N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase (NAG) is an early marker of nephrotoxicity. NAG activity was assayed by the fluorimetric method of Leaback and Walker in 17 patients treated (22 courses) with carboplatin (CBDCA, 220–550 mg/m2) before infusion and 24, 48, 72 and 96 h after. Increased excretion of NAG, a sensitive index of renal tubular damage, was observed following 10 of the 22 courses. A transient increase in plasma creatinine and/or abnormal proteinuria was observed in 6 cases. Impaired renal function prior to therapv seems to be a predisposing factor to the nephrotoxicity.
Results of two Controlled Studies on Antiemetic Combination against Vomiting Induced by 5-Fluorouracil
Authors: Martin-Jimenez Miguel , Diaz-Rubio Eduardo , Sangro Bruno
Published: April 2018

A group of 132 patients with different disseminated solid tumors entered two consecutive antiemetic trials in which 5-fluorouracil given in a 120-h continuous infusion was the emetogenic stimulus. The purpose of the trials was to investigate the validity of Peroutka and Snyder's hypothesis. These authors suggested that CNS receptors other than the classical dopamine D-2 (e.g., histamine H-1 and muscarinic cholinergic receptors) were involved in emetic response. Hence, a combination of a phenothiazine (an antidopaminergic drug) with an antihistaminic or a tricyclic antidepressant (H-1 and muscarinic cholinergic blockers) was suggested to be possibly superior to phenothiazine alone against antineoplastic chemotherapy-induced vomiting. The first study showed the antiemetic superiority of a phenothiazine (thiethylperazine) over placebo but failed to show a superiority of the combination of thiethylperazine and an antihistaminic (diphenhydramine) over thiethylperazine alone. In contrast, the second study proved the superiority of the combination of thiethylperazine and a tricyclic antidepressant (amitriptyline) over thiethylperazine alone. In conclusion, tricyclic antidepressants – but not antihistaminics – potentiate the antiemetic activity of thiethylperazine against 5-fluorouracil-induced vomiting.
Synchronous Triple Carcinoma of the Lung in One Patient
Authors: Badiali Paolo , Alloisio Marco , Lombardi Luciano
Published: April 2018

A case is reported of the simultaneous occurrence of a squamous cell carcinoma and a small cell carcinoma, both centrally located, in the right upper lobe and a peripheral adenocarcinoma in the right lower lobe. The simultaneous occurrence of three primary lung carcinomas is discussed in the light of a probable common cell origin.
Cisplatin and Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Unresectable Lung Cancer
Authors: Soresi Enzo , Borghini Umberto , Harari Sergio , Scoccia Silvano , Torre Massimo , Botturi Marco , Leoni Mario
Published: April 2018

The goal of this pilot study was to verify the efficacy of the association of cisplatin plus radiotherapy in the treatment of lung cancer. Thirty-seven consecutive patients entered the study. They were treated with radiotherapy (four weekly doses of 2.5 Gy for a total of 50 Gy) and cisplatin once weekly (12 mg/m2). Partial remission was obtained in 15 patients, and 1 patient had a complete remission. Three patients previously inoperable underwent surgical treatment. The actuarial survival curve of the 29 evaluable patients showed a mean survival of 8.5 months. The mean survival of the latter is not evaluable because half of the patients are still alive after 12 to 30 months. No hematologic or renal toxicity was observed with the above schedule.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (B-Cell) in the Course of Polycythemia Vera. Description of a Case with an Unusual Chromosomic Anomaly
Authors: Carulli Giovanni , Marini Alessandra , Baicchi Ugo , Simi Paolo , Papineschi Federico , Ambrogi Fabio
Published: April 2018

The present paper describes the case of a patient who developed a B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) 15 months after the diagnosis of polycythemia vera, which had been treated only with phlebotomies. In spite of lymphocytosis and the clinical signs and symptoms of leukemia, the patient exhibited at the same time presumptive elements of polycythemia (high LAP index levels, a high number of neutrophils). Cytogenetic investigations, carried out after the appearance of B-CLL, revealed the presence of an unusual abnormality (18 p+) both in bone marrow not stimulated by mitogens and in PWM-stimulated circulating lymphocytes. This case, which is the ninth of its kind described in the literature, offers some interesting observations about the association between myeloproliferative and lymphoproliferative syndromes.