bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial Calcium during Liver Carcinogenesis due to Thioacetamide and 4 - Dimethylaminoazobenzene
Authors: Anghileri Leopoldo J. , Heidbreder Monika , Weiler Günter , Dermietzel Rolf
Published: April 2018

In a series of experiments the prolonged feeding of rats with thioacetamide and 4-dimethylaminoazobenzene provoked an increase in mitochondrial calcium. It seems likely that this continuous mitochondrial overloading with Ca2+ is related to metabolic and functional changes of the liver cell leading to a neoplastic transformation. The drastic changes in cell membrane permeability of cholangiocarcinoma tumor cells, reflected by an increased concentration of extracellular cations (calcium and sodium), while the intracellular cations tended to decrease, indicate that the mitochondrial function of specification of cell membrane characteristics is possibly impaired by that calcification.
Metastatic Cervical Carcinoma Presenting as Primary Thyroid Cancer. Case Report
Authors: Martino Enio , Bevilacqua Generoso , Nardi Marco , Macchia Enrico , Pinchera Aldo
Published: April 2018

Secondary neoplasm of the thyroid mimicking a primary thyroid lesion is a very rare finding. A case of squamous and anaplastic cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix metastatic to the thyroid is described.
Electron Microscopic Search for Endogenous Type c Virus Production in Organs of Dexamethasone-treated C57BL/He AND C57BL/6J MICE
Authors: Torre Gabriella Della , Boiocchi Mauro
Published: April 2018

Several organs of newborn or adult C57BL/He and C57BL/6J mice and of infant AKR mice were examined for type-C viral particles after treatment with dexamethasone, a corticosteroid hormone that stimulates C virus replication. In both C57BL strains C particles were consistently found in the exocrine pancreas of the newborns but in smaller number than that previously observed in the adults. No C particles were observed in the submaxillary salivary glands, bones or other organs examined in adult C57BL/He and C57BL/6J mice. In infant AKR mice, few C particles were observed in the exocrine pancreas or submaxillary salivary glands whereas they were found to be produced in large number by bone cells. The results suggest that in C57BL/He and C57BL/6J mice endogenous C particle production is continuous throughout life in the exocrine pancreas and is restricted to this tissue.
A Quantitative Test for Chemosensitivity of Short-term Cultures of Human Lymphomas
Authors: Costa Aurora , Piazza Rita , Sanfilippo Ornella , Silvestrini Rosella
Published: April 2018

An in vitro chemosensitivity test is described for the quantitative determination of the interference of antitumoral drugs on nucleic acid metabolism in short-term cultures of non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphomas. Preliminary biochemical studies have defined the optimal culture conditions and have guaranteed the reliability and the reproducibility of the test. Our results for adriamycin and prednisone are in agreement with those obtained on experimental systems with other techniques.
Antigenicity of a Spontaneous Murine Mammary Adenocarcinoma during in Vitro Cultivation
Authors: Hakim Anwar A.
Published: April 2018

The present study reports on the transplantability and immunogenic properties of a murine spontaneous mammary adenocarcinoma (AdCa) cultured under various conditions. When cultured under standard conditions for 300 days, AdCa cells became nononcogenic, and 74 % survived the effects of immune spleen cells. Cell cultures grown in presence of the « extracellular protease » retained their transplantability, and only 25 % survived the effects of immune spleen cells. In cotton-stoppered bottles without HEPES, the cells retained their transplantability and survived after incubation with immune spleen cells, whereas AdCa cells cultured in presence of human alpha-1-antitrypsin became less oncogenic and remained sensitive to the killing effects of immune spleen cells. When treated with serum of mice or rabbits immunized with AdCa cells, the cells cultured under standard conditions or grown in presence of the human antitrypsin became non-transplantable, whereas cells grown in cotton-stoppered glass bottles or in presence of the « extracellular protease » retained their oncogenicity. When cultured AdCa cells were incubated with cAMP and then used to immunize syngeneic hosts, tumors arising from a challenging dose of untreated AdCa cells grew faster in mice immunized with cAMP-treated cells than in mice immunized with untreated cells. On the other hand, immunization with AdCa cells treated with EDTA, iodoacetate, or heparin reduced the transplantability of the challenging AdCa cells. Treatment with vibrio cholera neuraminidase (VCN) at pH 5.6 increased the immunogenicity of AdCa cells: immunization with VCN-treated AdCa cells protected syngeneic hosts against challenge with untreated AdCa cells, whereas formalin-or glutaraldehydeflxed untreated AdCa cells gave a transient protection. Rabbit and mouse antisera raised against VCN-treated AdCa cells and against membrane glycoproteins of untreated AdCa cells showed definite though variable cytotoxic activity against cultured untreated AdCa cells.
Mitomycin C in Metastatic Breast Cancer Resistant to Hormone Therapy and Conventional Chemotherapy
Authors: De Lena Mario , Jirillo Antonio , Brambilla Cristina , Villa Silvia
Published: April 2018

Mitomycin C was administered to 22 patients with metastatic breast cancer, refractory to hormonal therapy and conventional chemotherapy. Treatment was given by intravenous bolus injection at 20 mg/m2 of the drug and repeated at 6-week intervals. The overall response rate was 23 %. Two complete remissions were seen in soft tissue lesions. Leukopenia occurred in 68 % of the patients, thrombocytopenia in 36 %, and anemia in 14 %. One case of cardiotoxicity after previous treatment with adriamycin was observed. We conclude that mitomycin C is an active agent in disseminated breast cancer resistant to hormone therapy and chemotherapy. Combination of mitomycin C with other chemotherapeutic drugs will be tested.
Biologic Activity of Daunorubicin Linked to Proteins via the Methylketone Side Chain
Authors: Zunino Franco , Gambetta Romolo , Vigevani Aristide , Penco Sergio , Geroni Cristina , Di Marco Aurelio
Published: April 2018

New daunorubicin-protein conjugates were prepared by covalently linking the antitumor drug to various test proteins via its methylketone side chain. Attachment of daunorubicin to proteins was achieved by nucleophylic substitution reaction of the 14-bromo derivative of the drug, under mild coupling conditions. In contrast to conventional methods, this procedure did not involve reaction or modification of the amino sugar. As expected, the covalent linkage of the drug was generally associated with an appreciable reduction in the drug cytotoxicity to HeLa cells in vitro. The possible advantages of this method for coupling to specific protein carriers are discussed.
Effects of Long-Term Intake of DDT on Rats
Authors: Cabral José R.P. , Hall Rachel K. , Rossi Lorenzo , Bronczyk Susan A. , Shubik Philippe
Published: April 2018

DDT is a pesticide used in malaria-control programmes throughout the world. Its potential carcinogenicity was studied in MRC Porton rats (Wistar-derived) which received dietary concentrations of 0, 125, 250 and 500 parts per million DDT (technical-grade) for life. The treatment had no adverse effects on body growth or survival rate. Various types of tumours were observed in animals in all groups: exposure to DDT resulted in statistically significant increased incidence of liver-cell tumours only in female treated rats; one such tumour was observed in control rats. No metastases of these tumours were found.
Production of Leukocyte Migration Inhibition Factor by Lymphocytes of Larynx Cancer Patients Stimulated by Laryngeal Carcinoma Solubilized Membrane Antigens
Authors: Cortesina Giorgio , Cavallo Giovanni Patrick , Beatrice Fabio , Sartoris Alberto , Bussi Mario , Morra Bruno , Di Fortunato Valerio , Poggio Ester , Rendine Sabina
Published: April 2018

The production of leukocyte migration inhibition factor (LIF) from lymphocytes after stimulation with 3 M KCl soluble tumor and normal mucosa extracts was investigated in 30 patients with laryngeal carcinoma at different development stages and in 30 normal donors. The experiments were performed in heterologous and autologous systems. In heterologous systems 3 M KCl tumor extracts induced LIF production by heterologous lymphocytes from patients in 91 % of the cases, and normal mucosa extracts induced LIF production by heterologous lymphocytes from patients in 73 % of the cases and from normal donors in 90 % of the cases. In autologous systems 3 M KCl tumor extracts induced LIF production by autologous lymphocytes from the same patients in 65 % of the cases, whereas the normal laryngeal mucosa extracts induced LIF production by the same autologous lymphocytes in the 6 % of the cases. The high positivity percentage of the test in heterologous systems could be related to differences in the major histocompatibility complex. The 65 % test positivity in autologous systems using tumor extracts could be related to the presence of tumor associated antigens.
Estrogen Receptors and Response to Chemotherapy in Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Cocconi Giorgio , De Lisi Vincenzo , Mori Patrizia , Bozzetti Cecilia
Published: April 2018

The relationship between receptor status and response to combination chemotherapy was retrospectively analyzed in 50 patients with advanced breast carcinoma, previously untreated with systemic therapy. Overall objective response rate to combination chemotherapy was similar in ER+ cases (14 of 33, 42 %) and in ER– (9 of 17, 53 %). The median duration of response was significantly longer in ER+ cases (48 weeks) than in ER– ones (26 weeks, P = 0.03). Response rate to cytotoxic chemotherapy does not appear to correlate with ER status.
Serum Thyroglobulin Levels in Patients with Bone Metastases from an Unknown Primary Site
Authors: Shah Damayanti H. , Krishna Balkundi A. , Pradhan Sultan A. , Rao Raja S. , Ganatra Ranianik D. , Sharma Shyammohan M.
Published: April 2018

Four cases with metastatic spread to bones and with primary site unknown are reported. The histopathologic examination on the bone biopsy material in 3 cases was adenocarcinoma. One case was suspected radiologically as primary bone tumor. The usefulness of estimation of serum thyroglobulin for detection of involved primary site is discussed.
Clinical and Pathologic Prognostic Features of Leiomyosarcoma of the Uterus
Authors: Bazzocchi Floriano , Brandi Giuseppe , Pileri Stefano , Mancuso Antonino , Massaro Alberta , Martinelli Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

A clinico-pathologic study of 20 consecutive patients with leiomyosarcoma of the uterus seen over a 12-year period has been evaluated. Tumor extent at the time of diagnosis seems to be the main prognostic factor: 62.5% of the patients in stage I are alive and well from 1 to 7 years after the diagnosis as compared to 0% of the patients in all the other stages. The age of the patients and the number of mitotic figures also appear to have some prognostic value.
Protective Effect of Reduced Glutathione against CIS-Dichlorodiammine Platinum (II)–Induced Nephrotoxicity and Lethal Toxicity
Authors: Zunino Franco , Tofanetti Odoardo , Besati Adriana , Cavalletti Ennio , Savi Giuseppina
Published: April 2018

Pretreatment of Swiss mice and Sprague-Dawley rats with glutathione (GSH) reduced the acute lethal toxicity of cis-dichlorodiammine platinum (II) (cis-DDP) in a dose-dependent manner. The protection was accompanied by reduction of both body weight loss and by reduction of nephrotoxicity, as measured by a rise in serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine levels and by histopathologic changes, which occurred 4 days following cis-DDP treatment. The antitumor effects of cis-DDP on experimental tumor models (P388 and Gross leukemia) were not significantly altered by GSH treatment. It is suggested that the partial protection by GSH from acute toxicity of the antitumor drug is directly related to protection of renal function.
Recurrences in the Soft Tissues of the Neck after Surgery or Radiotherapy plus Surgery on Regional Lymph Nodes in Patients Bearing Carcinomas of the Head and Neck
Authors: Basso-Ricci Sante , Molinari Roberto , Brambilla Gian Franco
Published: April 2018

A series of 45 recurrences in the soft tissues of the neck following lymph node dissection in 497 patients bearing carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive passages is reported. Only 22 cases that presented perilymph node metastases and/or in which there were reasons to indicate insufficient surgical radicality had been subjected to radiotherapy after surgical lymph node dissection; the other 23 cases had not been subjected to radiotherapy because the aforementioned premises had been lacking. All the recurrences therefore occurred in patients with clinically and histologically ascertained metastatic lymph nodes. The presence of perilymph node metastases and the judgement of surgical radicality was thus found insufficient criteria to plan future complementary postoperative radiotherapy. However, even in those cases in which postoperative radiotherapy was performed, there was a rather high incidence of recurrences, as high as 64.7% in patients with carcinoma of the tongue. Our data indicate the opportunity of a clinical trial with preoperative radiation therapy in patients with clinically evident lymph node metastases. Thirty-six of these recurrences were situated in the upper parts of the cervical region. The prognosis is very poor in such cases, so much so that only 2 of our series were disease free at 3 years after the treatment.
Acriflavine-Induced Surface Changes in Three Tumor Cell Types and Differential Sensitivity to Lectins
Authors: Chakraborty Nityagopal , Bose Satya Ranjan , Chowdhury Jayasree Roy
Published: April 2018

Phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and concanavalin A (Con A) were used as probes to detect changes in the cell surface of Dalton's lymphoma, sarcoma-180 and Ehrlich's carcinoma after short in vitro exposure to acriflavine. Dye-treated cells showed enhancement of agglutination both by PHA and Con A, and such enhancement was found to be dependent on the time of exposure and concentration of acriflavine. However, PHA-induced percent agglutination seemed to be much higher than that of Con A among the 3 cell types. There were also marked differences among the 3 cell types in order of their sensitivity to lectin-mediated agglutination. The strength of the response was greater in lymphoma to both PHA and Con A than that of sarcoma-180 and carcinoma cells, which appeared to be most resistant. Acriflavine, which is known as an intercalative agent with DNA, induces cell surface changes by promoting lectin-mediated cellular agglutination.
Factors that Affect Metastasis in Virus-Induced Mouse Mammary Tumors
Authors: Basolo Fulvio , Fontanini Gabriella , Squartini Francesco
Published: April 2018

Two hundred and forty-one mammary tumor-bearing breeding female mice of the BALB/cf C3H and BALB/cfRIII strains, carrying milk-transmitted murine mammary tumor virus (MuMTV) of C3H and RIII origin, respectively, were studied to evaluate the factors that affect tumor metastasis. Only lung metastases were considered and the following factors taken in account: MuMTV inducing variant (C3H, RIII), number of deliveries, tumor histo-type, number of tumors per mouse, clinical duration of tumors, tumor size, and tumor growth rate. Only the number of deliveries, the tumor size and the number of tumors per mouse were found to significantly influence the rate of metastasis. The tumor growth rate affects concurrently with tumor size the metastatic process. In fact, the larger the tumor the higher the tumor growth rate. This direct relationship is significant (P < 0.01) and, in case of lung metastases at autopsy, there was a prevalence of large tumors (> 2 cm) and high growth rate (> 0.3 mm/day). The discordance of these data with those concerning mammary tumor metastasis in virgin females of the same two strains, the enhancing effect of pregnancies on metastatic spread of tumors, and the significance of results for the understanding of the general mechanisms of tumor metastasis are discussed.
Early Detection of Local Recurrences in the Follow-Up of Primary Breast Cancer
Authors: Ciatto Stefano , Del Turco Marco Rosselli , Pacini Paolo , De Luca Cardillo Carla , Bastiani Paolo , Bravetti Patrizia
Published: April 2018

The results of physical examination (PE) in the detection of local recurrences (LR) from breast cancer are reviewed in the follow-up experience of 1139 breast cancer patients. A minimum follow-up time of 5 years was considered. LR accounted for 40 % of total first relapses and isolated (without distant metastases) LR represented about 1/3 of total relapses. The chest wall was the most frequent site of LR. The extent of LR was correlated with the probability of associated distant metastases detectable at the time of LR diagnosis, whereas no correlations were found with the presence or absence of subjective symptoms at diagnosis. The mean free interval from primary surgery was 3 months shorter for LR detected in asymptomatic phase than in the symptomatic phase. This difference increased to 5 months for recurrences detected in the first 2 years, when PE controls were repeated every 6 months whereas a smaller difference of 2 months was observed over 2 years with yearly controls. The mean and 5-year actuarial survival was better (75.5 vs. 64.9 months and 54 % vs. 40 %) for cases detected in the asymptomatic phase than in the symptomatic phase; however, the difference was not statistically significant for the small sample considered and could be even partially due to length biased sampling. On the basis of the reported results, PE should still be recommended as a follow-up test, although further studies are needed to assess its real impact on prognosis.
Induction of Mammary Tumors with Metronidazole in Female Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Cavaliere Antonio , Bacci Mauro , Vitali Rino
Published: April 2018

Sprague-Dawley rats were administered low doses of metronidazole similar to those used in humans, and then subjected to a long-term follow-up. Metronidazole caused a significant rise in mammary tumors in the female rats (p < 0.001) after a mean latency period of 100.5 weeks.
Hyperthermal Effects in Phototherapy with Hematoporphyrin Derivative Sensitization
Authors: Melloni Elsa , Marchesini Renato , Emanuelli Hermes , Fava Giannino , Locati Lucia , Pezzoni Gabriella , Savi Giuseppina , Zunino Franco
Published: April 2018

Although the photochemical reaction of hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) appears to play a major role in cytotoxic activity, the hyperthermal contribution to tumor destruction has not yet been clarified. We investigated its role in the effectiveness of laser photoradiation therapy using MS-2 sarcoma transplanted into the hind pad of BALB/c mice as the experimental model. Mice received HpD i.V., 25 mg/kg - 24 h before exposure to light delivered from a dye laser or Nd-YAG laser, or before warming in a thermostated bath. Since our aim was not to cure the tumor, the treatment response was evaluated only as inhibition of tumor growth at different days after treatment. Our results support the view that in laser photochemotherapy the hyperthermia produced by irradiation and the photodynamic effect mediated by HpD could contribute to tumor destruction. Moreover, a synergistic interaction between the photodynamic effect and heat was observed in this experimental model.
Chronic Myelocytic Leukemia in Pregnancy: Report of a Case Treated with Leukapheresis
Authors: Broccia Giorgio , Casula Paolo , Andria Marcello
Published: April 2018

CML was diagnosed by chance in a 24-year-old woman at the 15th week of pregnancy which, on being informed of her disease she decided to continue. No treatment was given until the 24th week, when WBC reached 140,000/mm3 and it was believed necessary to begin treatment. A program of leukapheresis was started, with the sole aim of reducing the expanding leukemic pool. With 8 leukapheresis, performed at intervals of 2–8 days, WBC were reduced and kept at about 100,000/mm3; after the 8th procedure there was a progressive reduction of WBC to 40,000/mm3, which level was maintained without further treatment for about 4 weeks. Pregnancy and fetal development continued normally. Labor was induced at the 37th week of gestation, and a normal male infant was delivered whose development to date (20 months of age) is normal.
Histomorphometry and Pattern Recognition Analysis of Urothelial Papillary Lesions
Authors: Montironi Rodolfo , Scarpelli Marina , Pisani Edoardo , Ansuini Giuseppina , Mariuzzi Gian Mario
Published: April 2018

The authors report the results of the grading of urothelial papillary carcinoma using histomorphometry and pattern recognition analysis. Features concerning nuclear area, the nuclear roundness factor and inclination angle were measured in 38 cases of urothelial papillary carcinomas. The relative frequency distribution showed overlapping among the grades with a reduction in the practical significance of histomorphometry. To overcome this problem, the pattern recognition analysis was applied. It was found that mean nuclear area, mean roundness factor and percentages of round and horizontal nuclei represent the optimal discriminating set of the subsequent steps in the malignant urothelial transformation.
Sequential Combination Chemotherapy with Methotrexate and 5-Fluorouracil in Advanced Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Rabinovich Mario G. , Perez Juan E. , Macchiavelli Mario , Romero Alberto , Kremer Armando , Leone Bernardo A. , Strauss Evelina
Published: April 2018

Twenty patients bearing advanced colorectal carcinoma, confirmed by histology, were evaluated after undergoing a sequential chemotherapeutic schedule which consisted of methotrexate, 200 mg/m2 in intravenous infusion during 4 h followed 1 h later by 5-fluorouracil, 600 mg/m2 in intravenous bolus. Twenty hours after ending the MTX administration, leucovorine, 14 mg/m2, was given intramuscularly every 6 h, in 8 doses. Courses were repeated every 15 days. Of 20 patients, 3 bearing colon carcinoma, without previous radiotherapy or chemotherapy, had a partial response. No change was registered in 6 cases. There was no significant difference in the survival of responders, those with stable illness and those with progression. Results were no better than those obtained with 5-fluorouracil used as a single drug and are in agreement with studies that established a 1-h interval between the administration of both drugs.
Gastritis Cystica Polyposa: A Possible Precancerous Lesion
Authors: Franzin Giuseppe , Musola Renato , Zamboni Giuseppe , Manfrini Carlo
Published: April 2018

Twenty polypoid lesions at gastroenterostomy stomas (the so-called gastritis cystica polyposa - GCP) were endoscopically removed from gastroenterostomy stomas of 16 male and two female patients previously operated for benign lesions. The interval from surgery ranged from 3 to 40 years (mean: 16.2 years). At light microscopy GCP showed 2 histologic patterns: a) with cystic glands limited to the mucosal layer (gastritis cystica superficialis); b) with cystic glands also spreading into the submucosa (gastritis cystica profunda). Atrophy of specific gastric glands, intestinal metaplasia and dysplastic changes also occurred. Local chronic ischemia and inflammatory reaction as a consequence of gastric surgery and suture at gastroenterostomy together with bile reflux were considered responsible for the development of GCP. The sites and the histologic features of GCP resembled those of experimental stomal polyps proceeding carcinoma in rats after partial gastrectomy. The sites of formation, the sex incidence, the interval from previous operation as well as the histologic findings suggest that GCP is a possible precancerous lesion.
Cardiotoxicity as a Result of 5-Fluorouracil Therapy
Authors: Leone Bernardo , Rabinovich Mario , Ferrari Cesar Rodriguez , Boyer José , Rosso Hector , Strauss Evelina
Published: April 2018

We report the case of a patient bearing a sigmoid colon carcinoma, stage IV, who after 11 months of antiblastic therapy, having completed a dose of 81,000 mg of 5-FU and CCNU, suffered a myocardial infarct. We attribute this compication to 5-FU. Due to the fact that the coronary angiogram did not confirm the arteriosclerotic nature of the lesion, we suggest that it could have been caused by an endoarteritis, resulting from an immuno-allergic or toxic cumulative process.
11p13 Deletion and Reduced RBC Catalase in a Patient with Aniridia, Glaucoma and Bilateral Wilms’ Tumor
Authors: Barletta Cosimo , Castello Manuel Adolfo , Ferrante Enzo , Mavelli Irene , Clerico Anna , Ciriolo Maria Rosa , Vignetti Piero
Published: April 2018

A rare case of a one-year-old child with Wilms’ tumor, aniridia and glaucoma is described, in whom bone marrow chromosome analysis showed the presence of an interstitial micro-deletion on the short arm of chromosome 11, presumably involving the pl3 band. Research of the enzyme activity of RBC catalase showed a 40% reduction. This finding is compatible with the loss of the 11p13 band which contains the gene coding this enzyme. 11p13 deletion in Wilms’ tumor and 13q interstitial deletion in retinoblastoma provide a rare case of pre-zygotic chromosome abnormality, which may be considered to have a determinant role in the tumor etiopathogenesis.
High-Dose Methotrexate-Leucovorin Rescue Therapy: Selected Application in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Authors: Rizzoli Vittorio , Mangoni Lina , Caramatti Cecilia , Degliantoni Gino , Costi Daniele
Published: April 2018

Methotrexate with leucovorin rescue (HDMTX-LV rescue), has been used to treat solid tumors and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL). We studied the use of HDMTX-LV rescue in patients with widespread NHL with histologic diagnosis of diffuse poorly differentiated lymphocytic and diffuse histiocytic including involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) and/or bone marrow. The prognosis with conventional chemotherapy is extremely poor. Three patients have bone marrow involvement, 2 patients CNS, and 2 both. These patients were unresponsive to conventional chemotherapy and had a rapid progression of their disease. Therapy with HDMTX-LV rescue induced responses in 5 patients: 2 patients achieved a complete remission and three a partial remission. Regression of CNS involvement was observed in 3 patients; bone marrow toxicity was not observed. Only 1 patient failed to respond. These data suggest that HDMTX-LV rescue may be useful as primary therapy in lymphoma patients with CNS and/or bone marrow involvement.
Combination of 4-EPI-Doxorubicin and Irradiation - A New Approach in the Treatment of Locoregionally Advanced Inoperable Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Kolarić Krsto , Roth Anton , Ban Jasna , Bistrović Matija , Dujmović Ivo
Published: April 2018

The synergistic activity observed in vitro in V-79 hamster lung cells after treatment with 4-epi-doxorubicin (4-epi-DX) combined with irradiation stimulated a pilot study of 38 patients with inoperable locoregionally advanced squamous cell esophageal cancer. The patients (30 males, 8 females; mean age 60 years) had undergone no prior radiation or cytostatic drug therapy. Twenty tumors were localized in the middle third of the esophagus, and the remainder in the upper or lower third. Histological evidence of the tumor was obtained in all patients before treatment by endoscopy. The 33 evaluable cases included 30 squamous cell carcinomas, 2 anaplastic (squamous cell) carcinomas and 1 adenocarcinoma. The patients were irradiated in two opposite thoracic fields (Betatron-Siemens) with a total dosage of 3600-4000 cGy (200 cGy daily, 1000 weekly). The patients were concurrently administered 4-epi-DX at the dose of 50 mg/m2 i.v. daily on days 1, 2, 22 and 23; the total 4-epi-DX dosage was 200 mg/m2. The results showed that 4-epi-DX combined with irradiation had a pronounced antitumorigenic activity, since the 33 evaluable patients included 11 complete and 12 partial remissions, with a response rate of 70% (23/33). A minor regression (< 50%) was observed in 6 cases, and progression of the disease in 4. The median duration of the remissions was 9 + months (14 + months in complete responders). In 8 patients with a complete clinical response even the endoscopic biopsy samples were negative. Toxicity was moderate and reversible, and mainly accounted for by radiation mucositis and retrosternal pain, alopecia and mild bone marrow suppression. Transient ECG changes were observed in 3 cases. The results of the pilot study show that the combination of 4-epi-DX and irradiation might constitute successful palliative treatment for squamous cell esophageal cancer.
A Clinical Trial of Homoharringtonine in the Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhao Tiping , Ding Genxiong , Gao Haoyong , Shen Zhenzhou , Li Yueyun Katherine
Published: April 2018

Two combination chemotherapy protocols, CMF (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, fluorouracil) and CMFH (CMF plus homoharringtonine), were tested in advanced breast cancer patients. The response rate of CMF was 50% in 44 cases, and that of CMFH was 54.16% in 48 cases; the difference was not significant. There was also no difference between the median duration of response and the median survival of the two protocols. It was concluded that the addition of homoharringtonine to the CMF protocol gave no additional benefit.
Correlation between Tyrosine Hydroxylase Immunoreactive Cells in Tumors and Urinary Catecholamine Output in Neuroblastoma Patients
Authors: Ceccamea Alberto , Carlei Francesco , Dominici Carlo , Castello Manuel A. , Lomanto Davide , Cappelli Carlo A. , Lezoche Emanuele
Published: April 2018

The results of an immunocytochemical evaluation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactivity in 30 neuroblastic tumors of infancy are reported. Although no correlations could be found between the immunoreactive pattern and the site of origin or the staging of the tumor, a positive relationship between the urinary catecholamine output and the density of TH-immunoreactive cells could be established. TH was mostly localized on the cytoplasm of the differentiating neuroblasts, whereas immature elements were rarely positive. Moreover, 2 stage IVS cases did not contain any TH immunoreactivity. The possible significance of this finding in the investigation of this form of neuroblastoma, which has a peculiar biological behavior, is considered.
Percutaneous Interstitial Chemotherapy of a Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma under Ultrasound Guidance
Authors: Livraghi Tito , Ravetto Carlo , Solbiati Luigi , Suter Fredy
Published: April 2018

A small < 3 cm) inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma was treated with percutaneous interstitial chemotherapy (PIC). 5-Fluorouracil was injected by a fine needle under ultrasound guidance. After 3 months a fine needle biopsy (FNB) yielded fibronecrotic material. After 18 months another FNB yielded steatosis and dysplastic cells and the lesion showed no increase in size. PIC could be an interesting alternative treatment for small tumors unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Osteosarcoma as a Primary Second Tumor in a Patient with Nonhereditary Retinoblastoma
Authors: Sudanese Alessandra , Toni Aldo , Baldini Nicola
Published: April 2018

A case of osteosarcoma of the distal femur 13 years after the occurrence of a unilateral nonhereditary retinoblastoma is reported. The karyotype of circulating lymphocytis was found to be normal. The existence of a linkage between the two neoplasms due to a subtle chromosomal abnormality is discussed.
Usefulness of the Trh Test in the Management of Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Castagnoli Antonio , De Cristofaro M. Teresa Rosaria , Taddei Ivano , Forni Silvana , Russo Cosimo Roberto , Pupi Alberto
Published: April 2018

Thirty patients thyroidectomized for differentiated thyroid cancer were studied. Serum TSH was assayed in basal conditions and after TRH stimulation, while patients were in suppressive therapy with thyroid hormones. The basal TSH was normal in all the patients and less than 2 μ/ml in 20 patients. The TRH test was negative (no TSH response) in 27 patients and in all the cases with the basal TSH lower than 2 μU/ml.
Correlation between Changes in Prolactin and Melatonin Serum Levels after Radical Mastectomy
Authors: Lissoni Paolo , Paolorossi Franco , Barni Sandro , Tancini Gabriele , Crispino Sergio , Rovelli Franco , Ferri Luigi , Esposti Germana , Esposti Daniele , Fraschini Franco
Published: April 2018

Both prolactin (PRL) and melatonin (MLT) (the most important pineal hormone) have been shown to play a role in regulating breast cancer growth. The present study was carried out to investigate the relationship between PRL and MLT secretions in human breast cancer. Twenty-four women with breast cancer, at clinical stage T1-2 N0-2 M0, were evaluated before and after radical mastectomy. As controls, 14 women who underwent surgery for reasons other than neoplastic disease were included in the study. PRL and MLT serum levels were measured by RIA before and 15 days after surgery. There were no significant differences in mean PRL serum levels between patients and controls; mean MLT serum values were significantly higher in patients than in controls. In no control subject was PRL affected by surgery. In contrast, 13/24 breast cancer women showed high PRL levels after mastectomy; the PRL rise induced by surgery was significantly higher in patients without axillary node involvement. MLT was not affected by mastectomy in 13 patients, whereas it was enhanced in 5 women and decreased in the last 6 cases. No significant correlation was seen between PRL and MLT changes induced by mastectomy. The present study shows that radical mastectomy influences PRL and MLT secretions, however, its clinical significance remains to be established.
Methotrexate with Citrovorum Factor in Low-Risk Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor
Authors: Bolis Giorgio , Colombo Nicoletta , Epis Amalia , Mangili Giorgia , Vassena Laura , Vergadoro Franca , Belloni Carlo
Published: April 2018

From January 1976 through December 1985, methotrexate (MTX) with citrovorum factor (CF) was administered as primary treatment to 57 patients with low-risk gestational trophoblastic tumor (GTT); 51 patients were non-metastatic and 6 were metastatic GTT. The median number of courses needed to achieve biochemical remission was two (range, 1–7). Complete remission was attained in 95% of non-metastatic GTT patients with postmolar persistent trophoblastic disease, but when choriocarcinoma was histologically confirmed, this fell to 60%. The cure rate of metastatic GTT patients was only 50%. The overall remission rate with the MTX-CF combination was 84.2%. Toxicity was mild, consisting of myelosuppression and mucositis. Fifteen patients were resistant to MTX-CF, or relapsed subsequently, but they all achieved remission with chemotherapy rescue treatment (VP 16 alone, EMA/CO, CHAMOCA). Two patients required a pulmonary lobectomy. They are all still alive in biochemical remission with a median survival of 54 months. Our experience suggests that drug resistance and relapse rate seem related to a β-HCG value higher than 104, an enlarged uterus with myometrial deep involvement, and a histologically confirmed diagnosis of choriocarcinoma. In conclusion, the MTX-CF combination is effective in postmolar GTT, whereas a different therapeutic approach may be considered for a « special » low-risk group of patients, on the basis of prognostic factors.
High-Dose Cisplatin in the Outpatient Clinic: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Merlano Marco , Grimaldi Andrea , Brunetti Isa , Modenesi Maurizio , Accomando Emilio , Rosso Riccardo
Published: April 2018

A clinical trial was undertaken to assess the feasibility of treatment with high-dose cisplatin on an outpatient basis. Eleven patients entered the study: 9 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, 1 patient with malignant melanoma of the skin, and 1 patient with breast cancer. All patients were pretreated. The chemotherapy scheme consisted of cisplatin, 60 mg/m2 for 3 consecutive days, every 4 weeks. We observed 5 partial responses, 4 stable diseases, and 1 progression of disease; 1 patient failed due to toxicity. The overall response rate was 45.4%. This treatment was associated with severe toxicity including nausea and vomiting, myelosuppression, neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and electrolyte disorders. Two patients died and 2 discontinued the treatment due to toxicity. In light of the incidence and severity of toxicity, this treatment should not be used as routine practice.
Gangliocytic Paraganglioma of the Duodenum: Case Report
Authors: Dante Stefania , Viale Giuseppe , Palma Paolo Dalla
Published: April 2018

A case of gangliocytic paraganglioma of the second portion of the duodenal loop is presented. The tumor was polypoid and, histologically, composed of mature ganglion cells, spindle cells and epithelial-like cells. Immunocytochemical examination demonstrated the presence of neurofilament 200 K and S-100 protein only in the first two types of cells; all the cells were positive for neuron-specific enolase. The reaction for cytokeratin was negative in all neoplastic components. According to morphologic and immunocytochemical findings, we suggest a hamartomatous nature of this entity.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Melanoma-Associated Antigen p94 kd200 with the Use of a Modified Avidin-Biotin-Complex Lectin Method
Authors: Garnis-Jones Sylvia , McLean David , Worth Ann
Published: April 2018

The immunohistochemical localization of melanoma-associated antigen p94 kd200 was investigated in frozen sections of 3 congenital nevi, 4 benign intradermal nevi, 1 regressing nevus, 1 blue nevus, 1 dysplastic nevus, 1 lentigo maligna, 1 superficial spreading melanoma and 2 metastatic melanomas. The original avidin-biotin complex lectin method (Hsu SM, Raine L, Fanger H: Am. J. Clin. Pathol., 75: 734–738, 1981) was modified to detect the antigen. The sections were exposed to the monoclonal antibody to p94 kd200 (Hybritech Inc.), the linking biotin-labelled anti-mouse IgG, the avidin-biotin peroxidase complex and the 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole solution in an incubator at 37 °C and 100% humidity. We found that the percentage of cells expressing p94 kd200 varied between 0 and 100% in congenital nevi, between 80 and 100% in benign intradermal nevi, between 0 and 20% in the regressing, blue and dysplastic nevi, and in the lentigo maligna, 80 to 100% in the superficial spreading melanoma, and between 0 and 40% in the metastatic melanomas. Positive cells were found to be hypomelanotic (did not have heavy melanin content). The intensity of labelling or the degree of antigen expression on benign and malignant hypomelanotic cells was also found to vary. These findings 1) reinforce the concept of quantitative rather than qualitative antigenic differences in benign and malignant cells 2) suggest that kd200 is lost with increasing pigment production 3) offer a potentially significant tool to investigate the antigenic changes during cell differentiation.
Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome Associated with Short-Term Continuous Infusion (5 Days) of 5-Fluorouracil
Authors: Bellmunt Joaquin , Navarro Matilde , Hidalgo Roberto , Sole Luis A.
Published: April 2018

A case of palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (PPES) observed during a 120-h infusion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is presented. This syndrome has been described in the literature after protracted infusion chemotherapy of over 30 days. The agent most frequently associated with this syndrome was 5-FU. A 53-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with a well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the retromolar trigone. The patient received 100 mg/m2 of cisplatin on day 1 and 120-h continuous infusion of 1000 mg/m2 of 5-FU every 3 weeks. After the second course, the patient developed clinical features consistant with PPES. This side effect has not been previously reported with short-term (5-day or 120-h) continuous infusion of 5-FU. Less frequently, the syndrome has also been described with 10-day continuous infusion. The etiopathogenesis of PPES is unclear, but it seems to be dose-dependent and probably related to cutaneous drug accumulation.
Paratesticular Rhabdomyosarcoma in Childhood: Experience of the Italian Cooperative Study
Authors: Cecchetto Giovanni , Grotto Paolo , De Bernardi Bruno , Indolfi Paolo , Perilongo Giorgio , Carli Modesto ,   for the Cooperative Group
Published: April 2018

The authors report the experience of the Italian Cooperative Study AIEOP-CNR RMS-79 concerning 16 children affected by localized paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma (15 stage I, 1 stage II). The good results obtained by multidisciplinary treatment suggest a less aggressive approach as regards retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy and chemotherapy.
Evaluation in Terms of Annual Incidence Rate of Lung Cancer within the ULSSs of the Veneto Region (Italy) from Hospital Discharge Data (Years 1980–1982)
Authors: Bolzan Mario , Conte Gianni
Published: April 2018

The annual incidence of lung cancer in aggregated territories (ULSS and Veneto Region) was assessed by a retrospective analysis of hospital discharge data from 1980–1982. The 1982 regional age and sex-specific prevalence and incidence rates (x 100,000 inhabitants), the deaths in period and the cumulative incidence rates were determined. Also calculated were the standardized incidence ratios, distinctly for sex and a truncated age range (35–64 years) and on the total as well as the standard errors. The results obtained demonstrated that the incidence rate in the Veneto is among the highest in Italy and that there is a nonhomogeneous distribution of incidence/prevalence in the various ULSSs within the Veneto. Previously held opinions on the effects of sex and age were also confirmed. Comparison of the results with those obtained from the deaths in period showed the method used for analysis to be reasonably practical and reliable. It could provide an alternative method to the more complex and expensive system currently adopted by the Population Registries.
Immunohistochemical Evaluation of a Panel of Monoclonal Antibodies for the Diagnosis of Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Fargion Silvia , Boeri Raimondo , Cislaghi Valeria , Francanzani Anna L. , Piperno Alberto , Schmid Corrado , Fiorelli Gemino
Published: April 2018

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with a high sensitivity and specificity for small cell lung cancer (SCLC) may be of potential diagnostic and therapeutic use. We selected five different mAbs generated against SCLC cell lines and tested them on paraffin-embedded SCLC and non SCLC (NSCLC) clinical samples in a retrospective study using immunohistochemical techniques. The results showed that the contemporary use of mAbs that react with different antigens allowed all the examined SCLC to be detected indicating that this panel of mAbs was extremely sensitive. Analysis of the reactivity of these mAbs with NSCLC showed that 4 of the 5 antibodies reacted also with a few NSCLC. Using higher dilutions of these mAbs their specificity improved substantially. The 5 different mAbs presented marked heterogeneity of antigenic expression within and between SCLC. This panel of antibodies may be very useful in the diagnosis of SCLC whereas their application, in vivo, in therapeutic trials, is limited by the heterogeneity of antigenic expression.
Postoperative Radiotherapy in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Franchin Giovanni , De Paoli Antonino , Gobitti Carlo , Boz Giovanni , Minatel Emilio , Roncadin Mario , Arcicasa Mauro , Bortolus Roberto , Innocente Roberto , Trovò G. Mauro , Grigoletto Eligio
Published: April 2018

This retrospective study was conducted on 255 consecutive patients with locally advanced squamous-cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx or hypopharynx, treated at the Radiotherapy Department of Pordenone General Hospital between January 1975 and December 1985. All patients underwent radical surgery followed, after an interval ranging from 10 days to 2.9 months, by radiotherapy given either through a 6 MeV linear accelerator or a cobalt-60 unit. Field extension and dose delivered were comparable in relation to stage and involvement of the surgical resection margins. The aims of the study were to evaluate the survival rate and to analyze the clinical parameters which can influence the disease-free survival. The adjusted overall 5-year survival rate was 71%; stage, performance status at diagnosis, and site of the primary tumor were significant factors in determining patient prognosis, whereas Infiltration of resection margins was not significant in determining locoregional control of disease. Seventy-five patients relapsed and 67 died of cancer-related diseases whereas death in 52 patients was not related to the head and neck cancer. The combined modality treatment consisting of surgery followed by radiotherapy was well tolerated and proved to be effective in the treatment of locally advanced head and neck tumors.
Favorable Long Term Results in Patients with Small Differentiated Thyroid Cancer not Treated with Radioiodine
Authors: Busnardo Benedetto , Girelli Maria Elisa , Rubello Domenico , Pelizzo Maria Rosa , Simioni Natalino , Nacamulli Davide
Published: April 2018

Data on a group of 110 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer not treated by radioiodine are reported. Most of them had intrathyroid (stage I) papillary or capsuled follicular cancer of less than 3 cm diameters. They all received thyroxine at TSH suppressive doses. The follow-up ranged between 4 and 25 years, mean 8.7. No patient died of tumor. Two very old patients died free of disease. Four recurrences occurred, within 8 years, all in patients over 45 years, all local or nodal, all papillary, 3 out of 4 after total thyroidectomy. This study shows that radioiodine therapy may be avoided and that lobectomy may be sufficient in patients under 45 years with small papillary or capsuled follicular cancer.
An Adult Atypical Fibromyxoid Tumor of the Urinary Bladder
Authors: Goussot Jean François , Coindre J.M. , Merlio J.P. , de Mascarel A.
Published: April 2018

A case of atypical fibromyxoid tumor of the urinary bladder in a 32-year-old woman is reported. The patient had never complained of urinary symptoms, and bladder tumefaction was revealed fortuitously at pelvic ultrasound. Cystoscopy revealed a peanut-sized mass. Microscopically, the lesion was composed of strap- and tadpole-shaped cells resembling rhabdo-myoblasts. For this reason, the tumor was initially diagnosed as embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. However, immunohistochemical study was negative for muscle origin, and the tumor has subsequently proved benign. The reported case illustrates the value of immunohistochemical study in the evaluation of the true type of bizarre stroma cells in this pseudo-sarco-matous lesion. Their recognition is important, because the therapeutic consequences of misinterpreting this tumor as a sarcoma are great.
The Role of Radiotherapy in the Management of Choroid Plexus Neoplasms
Authors: Palazzi Mario , Di Marco Adriano , Campostrini Franco , Grandinetti Antonio , Bontempini Lamberto
Published: April 2018

Choroid plexus papillomas are very rarely reported neoplasms in both the surgical and radiological literature. The authors present their series of 7 papillomas and 1 carcinoma. They review the recent and former literature with the aim of demonstrating the role and usefulness of radiotherapy.
Pancreatic Metastasis 25 Years after Nephrectomy for Renal Cancer
Authors: Temellini Franco , Bavosi Mauro , Lamarra Mauro , Quagliarini Paolo , Giuliani Francesco
Published: April 2018

The authors report a case of renal cell carcinoma metastasis to the pancreas occurring 25 years after nephrectomy. The need for prolonged follow-up of patients is emphasized. The surgical approach Is considered the best way to deal with such late metastases.