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Early Recurrence (early + recurrence)
Selected AbstractsEarly recurrence of neurocysticercosis after orthotopic liver transplantLIVER TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 3 2006Matthew Hoare [source] Protracted CRP Elevation after Atrial Fibrillation AblationPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 9 2008JAMES M. McCABE M.D. Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been linked to an inflammatory process detected through various biomarkers, including C-Reactive Protein (CRP). Early recurrence of AF within the first 3 months after curative AF ablation is not felt to reflect success or failure of the procedure. We hypothesized that this early recurrence is due to an inflammatory response to the ablation itself. We therefore sought to evaluate levels of CRP after AF ablation. Methods: We prospectively enrolled subjects undergoing AF ablation. A control group of patients undergoing ablation for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was also enrolled. Each patient had CRP drawn on the day of the procedure (prior to ablation) and during their first follow-up (median 49 days, interquartile range [IQR] 37,93) and second follow-up (median 147 days, IQR 141,257) clinic visits. Patient interviews were performed and medical histories reviewed for evidence of recurrent AF prior to the first follow-up. Results: CRP levels significantly increased from baseline to first follow-up in the AF ablation group (P = 0.0017). CRP did not significantly change after SVT ablation (P = 0.92). Seventeen (45%) of the AF subjects exhibited recurrence of AF prior to first follow-up. After adjusting for multiple potential confounders, AF ablation patients with recurrent AF prior to their first follow-up had a statistically significant greater odds of having an increase in CRP (OR 21, 95% CI 1.1,417, P = 0.045). Conclusions: AF ablation generates an inflammatory response that persists for several weeks. This inflammation may explain early recurrence of AF after curative ablation. [source] Early recurrence of primary disease after pediatric renal transplantation: Two case reports and a review of the literaturePEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 2 2007Supriya Jain Abstract:, Recurrence of primary diseases such as FSGS or HUS is known to cause early graft dysfunction after pediatric renal transplantation. We report the unusual occurrence of early graft dysfunction following kidney transplant in two pediatric cases. Both subjects had biopsy proven recurrence of CGN in less than a week after transplantation. We were able to sustain the renal function in one of them following aggressive treatment. Hence, early recurrence of CGN should be considered in the differential diagnosis of early graft dysfunction. [source] High ,-fetoprotein level correlates with high stage, early recurrence and poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma: Significance of hepatitis virus infection, age, p53 and ,-catenin mutationsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 1 2004Shian-Yang Peng Abstract ,-Fetoprotein (AFP) is often elevated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study was to elucidate the significance and related factors of AFP elevation in HCC in 781 unifocal HCCs receiving curative hepatectomy. We showed that high AFP (> 200 ng/ml), which was associated with AFP mRNA expression in HCC (p = 0.00001), correlated with major clinicopathologic factors. Younger age (, 55 years; p = 0.00001), hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in serum (p = 0.00001), p53 mutation (p = 0.008), large tumor (p = 0.00001), vascular invasion (p = 0.00001) and early tumor recurrence (p = 0.00001) were significant associates of high AFP, while anti-HCV in serum and ,- catenin mutation in HCC had less frequent high AFP (p = 0.013 and < 0.0001, respectively). We also showed that HCC with high AFP had a lower 10-year survival (p < 0.0001), particularly in large HCC (p < 0.0001). At univariate analysis, high AFP (p < 0.0001), HBsAg positivity (p = 0.05), p53 mutation (p = 0.0004), liver cirrhosis (p = 0.0094), large tumor (p = 0.0003), vascular invasion (p < 0.0001) and early recurrence (p < 0.0001) were significant unfavorable prognostic factors. In Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, high AFP remained a borderline significance (OR = 1.2; CI = 1.0,1.4) after adjustment for the effect of tumor size and tumor stage (p = 0.0821). Furthermore, the detection of AFP mRNA in the liver of AFP mRNA-positive HCC was associated with more frequent early recurrence (p = 0.0026) and might be a useful marker of intrahepatic spread. We therefore conclude that AFP elevation, more than a coincidental epiphenomenon, appears to contribute to vascular invasion and HCC progression and help to identify subsets of HCC patients with increased risk for early recurrence and poor prognosis after hepatectomy. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Prevalence, Predictors, and Prognosis of Atrial Fibrillation Early After Pulmonary Vein Isolation: Findings from 3 Months of Continuous Automatic ECG Loop RecordingsJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 10 2009SANDEEP JOSHI M.D. Introduction: Following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF), early recurrences are frequent, benign and classified as a part of a "blanking period." This study characterizes early recurrences and determines implications of early AF following PVI. Methods and Results: Seventy-two consecutive patients (59.8 ± 10.7 years, 69% male) were studied following PVI for paroxysmal or persistent AF. Subjects were fitted with an external loop recorder for automatic, continuous detection of AF recurrence for 3 months. AF prevalence was highest 2 weeks after PVI (54%) and declined to an eventual low of 22%. A significant number (488, 34%) of recurrences were asymptomatic; however, all patients with ,1 AF event had ,1 symptomatic event. No clear predictor of early recurrence was identified. Forty-seven (65%) patients had at least 1 AF episode, predominantly (39 of 47 patients, 83%) within 2 weeks of PVI. Of the 33 patients who did not experience AF within the first 2 weeks, 85% (28/33) were complete responders (P = 0.03) at 12 months. Recurrence at any time within 3 months was not associated with procedural success or failure. Conclusions: Early AF recurrence peaks within the first few weeks after PVI, but continues at a lower level until the completion of monitoring. A blanking period of 3 months is justified to identify patients with AF recurrences that do not portend procedure failure. Freedom from AF in the first 2 weeks following ablation significantly predicts long-term AF freedom. [source] Mechanisms of Right Atrial Tachycardia Occurring Late After Surgical Closure of Atrial Septal DefectsJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 7 2005ISABELLE MAGNIN-POULL M.D. Introduction: In patients without structural heart disease, the most frequently occurring AT is the common atrial flutter. In patients with repaired congenital heart disease other mechanisms of AT may occur, due to the presence of an atriotomy that can provide a substrate for reentry. The aim of the present study was to identify the mechanisms of atrial tachycardia (AT) occurring late after atrial septum defect (ASD) repair, with the help of a three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping system. Methods and Results: Twenty-two consecutive patients presenting with AT underwent complete electroanatomic mapping (CARTO®, Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA) of spontaneously occurring and inducible right ATs. Complete maps of 26 ATs were obtained. Three tachycardia mechanisms were identified: single-loop macroreentrant atrial tachycardia (MAT) (n = 7), double-loop MAT (n = 18), and focal AT (n = 1). In all MATs, protected isthmuses were identified as the electrophysiological substrate of the arrhythmia, most frequently the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) (n = 24), and a gap between the inferior vena cava and a line of double potentials (n = 11). A mean number of 13.5 ± 2.1 radiofrequency applications were delivered to transect these critical parts of the circuit. During a follow-up of 25 ± 16 months the RF ablation was acutely successful in all patients. Thirteen patients (59%) had an early recurrence of MAT and needed an additional ablation procedure. One of those patients needed two additional ablation procedures. Conclusions: Three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping is useful to identify postsurgical AT mechanisms; the CTI isthmus is involved in 92% MAT, and if the right atrial free wall (RAFW) abnormal tissue related to surgical scar is present this substrate contributes to the MAT circuit [source] Catheter Ablation of Chronic Atrial Fibrillation Targeting the Reinitiating TriggersJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 1 2000MICHEL HAÏSSAGUERRE M.D. Trigger Ablation in Chronic AF. Introduction: We assessed the mode of reinitiation of atrial fibrillation (AF) after cardioversion and the efficacy of ablating these foci of reinitiation in patients with chronic AF. Methods and Results: Fifteen patients, 7 with structural heart disease, underwent mapping and catheter ablation of drug-resistant AF documented to he persistent for 5 ± 4 months. In all patients, cardioversion was followed by documentation of P on T atrial ectopy and early recurrence, which allowed mapping of the reinitiating trigger or the source of ectopy. Radiofrequency (RF) ablation was performed at pulmonary vein (PV) ostia using a target temperature of 50°C and a power limit of 30 to 40 W, with the endpoint being interruption of all local muscle conduction. A total of 32 arrhythmogenic PVs and 2 atrial foci (left septum and left appendage) were identified: 1, 2, and 3 or 4 PVs in 5, 3, and 6 patients. RF applications at the ostial perimeter resulted in progressively increasing delay, followed by abolition of PV potentials in 8, but potentials persisted in 6. A single ablation session was performed in 7 patients and 8 underwent two or three sessions because of recurrence of AF; ablation was directed at the same source due to recovery of local PV potential or at a different PV. No PV stenosis was noted either acutely or at repeated follow-up angiograms. Nine patients (60%) were in stable sinus rhythm without antiarrhythmic drugs at follow-up of 11 ± 8 months. Anticoagulants were interrupted in 7 patients. Conclusion: PVs are the dominant triggers reinitiating chronic AF in this patient population. Elimination of PV potentials by ostial RF applications results in stable sinus rhythm in 60%. A larger group and longer follow-up are needed to investigate further the role of trigger ablation in curative therapy for chronic AF. [source] Regulatory T cells and their prognostic value for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neckJOURNAL OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR MEDICINE, Issue 1-2 2010Jan Boucek Abstract Regulatory T cells (Treg) are important regulators of anti-cancer immune responses, and an increase in Treg frequency was observed in the blood of cancer patients. Blood samples from 112 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma antigen (HNSCC) were obtained at the time of tumour diagnosis, and lymphocyte subpopulations (CD3+; CD3,CD16+CD56+; CD4+; CD8+; CD19+; CD4+CD45RA+) with emphasis on Treg counts (CD3+CD4+CD25+), complete blood count and tumour markers (squamous cell carcinoma [SCC]; CEA; ,-1-antitrypsin [AAT]; Cyfra 21,1; C-reactive protein [CRP]) were analysed. The data were grouped according to TNM classification, and their significance for the course of the disease at an interval of 1 year after the end of the therapy was determined. The percentage of CD8+ cells increased and the CD/D8 ratio decreased with tumour grade. The ratio of B lymphocytes decreased in patients with locoregional metastases (11.25%versus 9.22%). Treg (15.2%) and CD4+ cells (45.3%) increased, while NK cells (11.8%) decreased in HNSCC patients compared to controls (9.0%, 38.1% and 15.8%, respectively). The data obtained at time of diagnosis were used to assess the significance of tumour markers (SCC, Cyfra 21,1 and AAT) for evaluation of prognosis. The erythrocyte counts (4.64 × 1012/l versus 4.45 × 1012/l) and haemoglobin levels (14.58 g/dl versus 14.05 g/dl) decreased, while Treg counts (8.91%versus 15.70%) increased in patients with early recurrence. Our results show that examination of these parameters could be helpful for prognostication in HNSCC patients and aid improvement of treatment strategy. [source] Recurrent hepatitis C after retransplantation: Factors affecting graft and patient outcome,LIVER TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 12 2005Michal Carmiel-Haggai Retransplantation (re-LT) of patients with recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) carries significant morbidity and mortality, negatively impacting on an already scarce donor allograft pool. In this study, we investigated the outcome of allografts and patients after re-LT due to recurrent HCV. Between 1989 and 2002, 47 patients were retransplanted at our institution due to HCV-related graft failure. Clinical HCV recurrence after re-LT was diagnosed when patients had acute liver enzyme elevation correlated with histological recurrence. The independent influence of these variables on survival was tested using Cox regression model. Chi-squared tests were used to examine the influence of individual demographic and pre/perioperative variables on recurrence. Thirty-one (66%) patients died after re-LT (median 2.2 months). Donor age >60, clinical HCV recurrence, and graft failure due to cirrhosis were significant risk factors for mortality (risk ratios of 3.6, 3.3, and 2.4, respectively). Pre-LT MELD score was lower among survivors (22± 5 vs. 27± 8). Following re-LT, 38 patients had at least one biopsy due to acute liver dysfunction; 19 of them (50%) had recurrence within the first 3 months. High-dose solumedrol was correlated with early recurrence. No association was found between time of recurrence after the first LT and time of recurrence after re-LT. In conclusion, patients with cirrhosis due to recurrent HCV undergoing re-LT have an extremely high mortality rate; older allografts should be avoided in retransplanting these patients. The timing of clinical recurrence after initial liver transplantation is not predictive of the timing of recurrence after re-LT. Patients experiencing early graft failure due to accelerated forms of HCV should not be denied re-LT with the expectation that a similar disease course will occur after re-LT. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1567,1573.) [source] Protracted CRP Elevation after Atrial Fibrillation AblationPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 9 2008JAMES M. McCABE M.D. Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been linked to an inflammatory process detected through various biomarkers, including C-Reactive Protein (CRP). Early recurrence of AF within the first 3 months after curative AF ablation is not felt to reflect success or failure of the procedure. We hypothesized that this early recurrence is due to an inflammatory response to the ablation itself. We therefore sought to evaluate levels of CRP after AF ablation. Methods: We prospectively enrolled subjects undergoing AF ablation. A control group of patients undergoing ablation for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was also enrolled. Each patient had CRP drawn on the day of the procedure (prior to ablation) and during their first follow-up (median 49 days, interquartile range [IQR] 37,93) and second follow-up (median 147 days, IQR 141,257) clinic visits. Patient interviews were performed and medical histories reviewed for evidence of recurrent AF prior to the first follow-up. Results: CRP levels significantly increased from baseline to first follow-up in the AF ablation group (P = 0.0017). CRP did not significantly change after SVT ablation (P = 0.92). Seventeen (45%) of the AF subjects exhibited recurrence of AF prior to first follow-up. After adjusting for multiple potential confounders, AF ablation patients with recurrent AF prior to their first follow-up had a statistically significant greater odds of having an increase in CRP (OR 21, 95% CI 1.1,417, P = 0.045). Conclusions: AF ablation generates an inflammatory response that persists for several weeks. This inflammation may explain early recurrence of AF after curative ablation. [source] Serum progastrin-releasing peptide levels followed by whole-body positron emission tomography detects early recurrence of small-cell lung cancerRESPIROLOGY, Issue 1 2007Hiroyuki YAMAGUCHI Abstract: A 65-year-old male smoker with severe COPD was diagnosed with limited-stage small-cell lung cancer. After receiving cisplatin/irinotecan, serum progastrin-releasing peptide (ProGRP) levels decreased to within the reference values and the lesions were markedly reduced in size. A whole-body 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET (FDG-PET) scan confirmed complete remission. During follow up, serum ProGRP levels increased, and a whole-body FDG-PET scan detected recurrence at the hilar lymph node that had been negative on CT. Complete remission was again achieved with second-line chemotherapy (cisplatin/etoposide) and local irradiation to the hilar lymph node. Monitoring serum ProGRP levels, followed by whole-body FDG-PET when indicated, may improve the clinical management of patients with small-cell lung cancer after initial complete remission. [source] A comparative study of pleurodesis using talc slurry and bleomycin in the management of malignant pleural effusionsRESPIROLOGY, Issue 2 2000Kian Chung Ong Objective: Differing success rates of various pleurodesis agents have been reported in the management of malignant pleural effusions. A randomized clinical trial was conducted to compare the efficacy of two commonly used agents, talc and bleomycin, for the pleurodesis of malignant pleural effusions. Methodology: Inclusion in the study required proof of a malignant pleural effusion by fluid cytology or pleural biopsy. Exclusion criteria included trapped lung, loculated effusions, recurrent effusions and life expectancy < 1 month. Five grams of talc or 1 unit per kilogram bodyweight of bleomycin mixed in 150 mL of normal saline was administered via tube thoracostomy after complete drainage of the pleural effusion in each patient. Treatment success was defined as the absence of recurrent pleural effusion on the chest radiograph 1 month after pleurodesis. Results: Treatment success was achieved in 16 out of 18 patients (89%) in the talc slurry group versus 14 out of 20 patients (70%) in the bleomycin group (P = 0.168). Fever and pain were the only side-effects of pleurodesis in both groups. Conclusion: These results indicate that talc slurry is as effective as bleomycin in preventing early recurrence of malignant pleural effusions. Pleurodesis with talc instead of bleomycin can result in significant cost savings. [source] Laparoscopic-assisted onlay meshplasty to treat umbilical hernias in patients with severe cirrhosisASIAN JOURNAL OF ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2010M Tomikawa Abstract We used laparoscopic-assisted onlay meshplasty to treat umbilical hernias in four patients with severe cirrhosis. A skin incision was made just above the hernia and the circumferential abdominal wall was exposed. Under laparoscopic vision, transabdominal-wall mattress sutures were placed circumferentially around the hernia without leaving a gap between the sutures, and the mesh was placed over the hernia sac and fixed by ligation. Neither postoperative peritonitis nor rupture with ascites was found. None of the patients experienced hernia recurrence or mesh infection after a mean follow-up of 563 d. There was no relevant mortality. Laparoscopic-assisted onlay meshplasty to treat umbilical hernias in patients with severe cirrhosis seems to be technically feasible and offers good results without complications and early recurrence. [source] Clinical and pathological evaluation of patients with early and late recurrence of colorectal cancerASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY, Issue 1 2010Mahdi AGHILI Abstract Aim: To compare the characteristics of primary cancer between patients with early recurrence and those with late recurrence of colorectal cancer. Methods: Overall 535 patients with primary colorectal cancer were reviewed and of these 130 patients with demonstrated recurrence were evaluated. Of the 130 patients, 91 had early recurrence (less than 2 years after surgery) and 39 had late recurrence (2 years or more after surgery). The clinical and pathological characteristics of primary cancer in these two groups were compared. Results: The rate of late recurrence was 30% of total recurrences (39/130). On average, patients with early recurrence were younger than patients with late recurrence (mean age 48 vs 54 years, p = 0.027). Adjacent organ involvement and Dukes stage C was more prevalent in the early recurrence group than in the late group. The liver was the main site of distant recurrence in the early recurrence group (64% of distant recurrences), whereas bone and peritoneum were the most frequent sites of metastases in the late recurrence group (58%). In Dukes C colon cancer patients the disease-free interval was significantly longer in those who received both adjuvant therapies than in those who received either radiotherapy or chemotherapy or neither of them. Conclusion: This study showed that factors such as primary clinical signs, stage of primary tumor, and adjacent organ involvement are significant with respect to the time for recurrence of colorectal cancer. It is important to take these characteristics into account in patient care management after curative resection for colorectal cancer. [source] Testing for high risk human papilloma virus in the initial follow-up of women treated for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesionsAUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY, Issue 2 2010Olivia Catherine SMART Background:, The follow-up schedule of women who have undergone treatment for high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) is a crucial part of the cervical screening programme. The ability to detect residual disease or early recurrence enables the provision of timely secondary intervention. Aims:, The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of High Risk HPV and cytological abnormalities at first follow-up visit post treatment. The feasibility, safety and cost benefit of omitting routine colposcopy as a first line investigation were evaluated. Methods:, A total of 100 women with histologically confirmed and treated HSIL were recruited prior to first follow-up visit. Colposcopic assessment, cervical cytology using LBC and HR HPV testing was carried out on all women. Results:, In all, 75% of the study group had both a negative HR HPV test and a normal cervical cytology at first follow-up visit. Mean time interval to first follow-up was 9 months. The rate of residual/recurrent high-grade disease within this cohort was 4% followed up to 18 months post treatment. HR HPV had a sensitivity of 100% to detect persistent HSIL. Conclusion:, High-risk human papilloma virus testing in combination with cytology at first follow-up visit in women treated for HSIL has a very high sensitivity and negative predictive value. Colposcopy does not improve specificity in this cohort and could be omitted in patients who have a negative smear and HPV test. [source] A clinicopathological study of the expression of extracellular matrix components in urothelial carcinomaBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 4 2005Elli Ioachim OBJECTIVE To measure the immunohistochemical expression of the extracellular matrix (ECM) components tenascin, fibronectin, collagen type IV and laminin in urothelial carcinomas, and to correlate their expression with clinicopathological features to clarify the prognostic value of these molecules and their role in tumour progression. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tumour specimens obtained during transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) from 103 patients (82 men and 2 1 women, mean age 66.7 years, range 27,89) were studied retrospectively. The expression of tenascin, fibronectin, collagen type IV and laminin was correlated with clinicopathological features (tumour grade and stage, multiplicity, simultaneous in situ component, the proliferative activity as estimated by the two proliferation associated indices, Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen, the recurrence rate, and the progression of invading tumour). Specimens investigated for tenascin expression from patients with superficial bladder cancers were categorized into 28 treated by TURBT only and 53 who had TURBT followed by intravesical instillations of interferon. RESULTS Cytoplasmic tenascin expression was detected in tumour cells in 20% of specimens. Tenascin was expressed in the tumour stroma in 76% of specimens, and was positively correlated with tumour grade and stage. Stromal tenascin expression was positively correlated with proliferative activity, and with the expression of fibronectin and collagen type IV. Fibronectin was expressed in the tumour stroma in 89% of specimens and was positively correlated with tumour stage, proliferative activity, and expression of collagen type IV and laminin. Collagen type IV was expressed in 93% of specimens, and was positively correlated with tumour grade and stage. Laminin was expressed in 78% of specimens and had no significant correlation with the clinicopathological features. Patients treated with TURBT alone and who had low levels of tenascin had a longer tumour-free interval than those with high levels of tenascin. CONCLUSION Levels of tenascin might be valuable for predicting the risk of early recurrence. The expression of tenascin, fibronectin and collagen type IV seems to be correlated with more aggressive tumour behaviour. Furthermore, their interrelationships could indicate that they are involved in the remodelling of bladder cancer tissue, probably influencing tumour progression. [source] Recurrence following curative resection for gastric carcinomaBRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 2 2000C. H. Yoo Background: The diagnosis and treatment of recurrent gastric cancer remains difficult. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for recurrence of gastric cancer and the prognosis for these patients. Methods: Of 2328 patients who underwent curative resection for gastric cancer from 1987 to 1995, 508 whose recurrence was confirmed by clinical examination or reoperation were studied retrospectively. The risk factors that determined the recurrence patterns and timing were investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: The mean time to recurrence was 21·8 months and peritoneal recurrence was the most frequent (45·9 per cent). Logistic regression analysis showed that serosal invasion and lymph node metastasis were risk factors for all recurrence patterns and early recurrence (at 24 months or less). In addition, independent risk factors involved in each recurrence pattern included younger age, infiltrative or diffuse type, undifferentiated tumour and total gastrectomy for peritoneal recurrence; older age and larger tumour size for disseminated, haematogenous recurrence; and older age, larger tumour size, infiltrative or diffuse type, proximally located tumour and subtotal gastrectomy for locoregional recurrence. Other risk factors for early recurrence were infiltrative or diffuse type and total gastrec-tomy. Reoperation for cure was possible in only 19 patients and the mean survival time after conservative treatment or palliative operation was less than 12 months. Conclusion: The risk factors for each recurrence pattern and timing of gastric cancer can be predicted by the clinicopathological features of the primary tumour. Since the results of treatment remain dismal, studies of perioperative adjuvant therapy in an attempt to reduce recurrence are warranted. © 2000 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd [source] Overexpression of osteopontin is associated with intrahepatic metastasis, early recurrence, and poorer prognosis of surgically resected hepatocellular carcinomaCANCER, Issue 1 2003Hung-Wei Pan M.S. Abstract BACKGROUND Intrahepatic metastasis via portal vein spread is an important feature and a crucial unfavorable prognostic factor of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To identify the molecular factors for tumor progression, the authors used differential display (DD) to analyze aberrant gene expression in HCC. The goal of the current study was to elucidate the clinicopathologic and prognostic significance of osteopontin (OPN) in HCC progression. METHODS OPN mRNA levels, which were increased preferentially in HCC in a DD assay and verified with Northern blotting, were measured in 240 surgically removed, unifocal, primary HCCs using the reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction at the exponential phase. OPN mRNA expression was correlated with clinicopathologic features, particularly portal vein invasion, early tumor recurrence, and prognosis. RESULTS Osteopontin mRNA was overexpressed in 133 tumors (55%). The OPN overexpression was associated closely with ,-fetoprotein elevation (P = 0.001), p53 mutation (P = 0.021), larger tumors (P = 0.002), high-grade HCC (P < 0.001), late-stage HCC (P < 0.001), early tumor recurrence and/or metastasis (P = 0.003), and a lower 10-year survival rate (P = 0.00013). Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor stage and early tumor recurrence were crucial prognostic factors. In early-stage HCC, which has no vascular invasion and a lower early tumor recurrence than late-stage HCC, OPN mRNA overexpression predicted a higher early recurrence rate (P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS OPN mRNA overexpression was correlated closely with high-grade, late-stage, and early tumor recurrence, which lead to poorer prognosis. Osteopontin overexpression might serve as an unfavorable prognostic factor and a useful marker for predicting early recurrence in early-stage HCC. Cancer 2003;98:119,27. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11487 [source] Cicatricial ectropion: repair with myocutaneous flaps and canthopexyCLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL OPHTHALMOLOGY, Issue 7 2006Kiran Manku FRANZCO Abstract Background:, To evaluate the effectiveness of myocutaneous upper eyelid flaps combined with canthopexy to treat cicatricial lower eyelid ectropion. Methods:, A prospective non-comparative case series undertaken in a private practice setting. Consecutive patients with moderate lower eyelid cicatricial ectropion and upper eyelid dermatochalasis underwent transfer of a bipedicle or monopedicle flap from the upper eyelid combined with canthopexy. The main outcome measures included the occurrence of complications, eyelid position and cosmesis. Results:, Sixty-two consecutive cases of cicatricial ectropion repair using myocutaneous flaps and canthopexy. After a mean follow up of 20 months, 58 (93.5%) of the cases had the lower lid punctum facing posterosuperior into the tear lake, showed lid globe apposition and satisfactory eyelid position. There was mild recurrence of cicatricial ectropion in four patients (6.5%). There were no cases of graft failure or granuloma formation. Conclusion:, The use of a myocutaneous flap from the upper eyelid combined with a canthopexy suspension suture for repair of cicatricial ectropion may offer good eyelid position and function. This technique has the advantage of avoiding full thickness blepharotomy and was associated with a low incidence of early recurrence. [source] Single-Institution Experience in the Management of Patients with Clinical Stage I and II Cutaneous Melanoma: Results of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in 240 CasesDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 11 2005Jordi Rex MD Background. Lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been developed as a minimally invasive technique to determine the pathologic status of regional lymph nodes in patients without clinically palpable disease and incorporated in the latest version of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system for cutaneous melanoma. Objective. To analyze the results of SLNB and the prognostic value of the micrometastases and the pattern of early recurrences in patients according to sentinel lymph node (SLN) status. Method. Patients with cutaneous melanoma in stages I and II (AJCC 2002) who underwent lymphatic mapping and SLNB from 1997 to 2003 were included in a prospective database for analysis. Results. The rate of identification of the SLN was 100%. Micrometastases to SLN were found in 20.8% of patients. The rate of SLN micrometastases increased according to Breslow thickness and clinical stage. Breslow thickness of 0.99 mm was the optimal cutpoint for predicting the SLNB result. Twenty-four patients (12.3%) developed a locoregional or distant recurrence at a median follow-up of 31 months. Recurrences were more frequent in patients with a positive SLN. Among patients who had a recurrence, those with a positive SLN were more likely to have distant metastases than those with negative SLN. Nodal recurrences were more frequent in patients with a negative SLN compared with those with a positive SLN. Conclusions. The status of the SLN provides accurate staging for identifying patients who may benefit from further therapy and is the most important prognostic factor of relapse-free survival. THIS WORK WAS SUPPORTED BY GRANTS FROM FONDO DE INVESTIGACIONES SANITARIAS (98/0449), BECA DE FORMACIÓ DE PERSONAL INVESTIGADOR (2001/FI0757), AND THE RED ESPÑOLA DE CENTROS DE GENÓMICA DEL CÁNCER (C03/10). [source] Postradiotherapy surveillance practice for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma,too much for too little?,HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 12 2003David L. Schwartz MD Abstract Introduction. Limited information is available regarding surveillance patterns after head and neck cancer radiotherapy. We cataloged follow-up for a specified patient cohort treated at three neighboring university, community, and Veterans Administration institutions. Methods. One hundred fifteen patients were treated with curative intent between 1994,1998 with definitive or postoperative radiotherapy for newly diagnosed squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, or hypopharynx. One hundred patients had continuous follow-up at their treating institution and were included for analysis. Median follow-up until disease recurrence or censorship was 28.5 months. Results. Median follow-up frequency was 5.7 visits/year and was highly variable. Although visit frequency correlated with disease stage and the presence of high-risk disease features, this association was lost when patients with early recurrences were removed from analysis. Procedure and test utilization closely mirrored visit frequency, resulting in a wide range of estimated yearly charges ($0,15,668/year; median, $1,772/year). Actuarial 3-year overall survival for the study group was 71%. Eighty-six percent (19 of 22) of potentially salvageable locoregional failures were discovered secondary to symptomatic complaint rather than by test results. Disease failure, whether detected by symptom or testing, predicted for poor survival (22% at 24 months after recurrence). Conclusions. Postradiotherapy surveillance for head and neck cancer is inconsistently pursued. A proven correlation between intensive follow-up and improved patient survival is lacking. Surveillance directed by patient symptoms should be investigated as an alternative approach. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 25: 000,000, 2003 [source] Prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence with alpha-interferon after liver resection in HCV cirrhosis,,§HEPATOLOGY, Issue 6 2006Vincenzo Mazzaferro Tumor recurrence after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can occur early (<2 years) or late (>2 years) as metastases or de novo tumors. Interferon (IFN) has the potential for chemoprevention against hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis. A predetermined group of 150 HCV RNA,positive patients undergoing resection of early- to intermediate-stage HCC was stratified into 80 HCV-pure (hepatitis B anticore antibody [anti-HBc],negative) and 70 mixed HCV+hepatitis B virus (HBV) (anti-HBc,positive) groups, then randomized to IFN-, (3 million units 3 times every week for 48 weeks [n = 76]) versus control (n = 74). The primary end point was recurrence-free survival (RFS); secondary end points were disease-specific and overall survival. Intention-to-treat and subgroup analysis on adherent patients were conducted. Treatment effects on early/late recurrences were assessed using multiple Cox regression analysis. No patient experienced life-threatening adverse events. There were 28 adherent patients (37%). After 45 months of median follow-up, overall survival was 58.5%, and no significant difference in RFS was detectable between the two study arms (24.3% vs. 5.8%; P = .49). HCC recurred in 100 patients (48 IFN-treated, 52 controls), with a 50% reduction in late recurrence rate in the treatment arm. HCC multiplicity and vascular invasion were significantly related to recurrence (P = .01 and .0003). After viral status stratification, while no treatment effect was apparent in the mixed HCV+HBV population and on early recurrences (72 events), there was a significant benefit on late recurrences (28 events) in HCV-pure patients adherent to treatment (HR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.09,0.9; P = .04). In conclusion, IFN does not affect overall prevention of HCC recurrence after resection, but it may reduce late recurrence in HCV-pure patients receiving effective treatment. (HEPATOLOGY 2006;44:1543,1554.) [source] Prevalence, Predictors, and Prognosis of Atrial Fibrillation Early After Pulmonary Vein Isolation: Findings from 3 Months of Continuous Automatic ECG Loop RecordingsJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 10 2009SANDEEP JOSHI M.D. Introduction: Following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF), early recurrences are frequent, benign and classified as a part of a "blanking period." This study characterizes early recurrences and determines implications of early AF following PVI. Methods and Results: Seventy-two consecutive patients (59.8 ± 10.7 years, 69% male) were studied following PVI for paroxysmal or persistent AF. Subjects were fitted with an external loop recorder for automatic, continuous detection of AF recurrence for 3 months. AF prevalence was highest 2 weeks after PVI (54%) and declined to an eventual low of 22%. A significant number (488, 34%) of recurrences were asymptomatic; however, all patients with ,1 AF event had ,1 symptomatic event. No clear predictor of early recurrence was identified. Forty-seven (65%) patients had at least 1 AF episode, predominantly (39 of 47 patients, 83%) within 2 weeks of PVI. Of the 33 patients who did not experience AF within the first 2 weeks, 85% (28/33) were complete responders (P = 0.03) at 12 months. Recurrence at any time within 3 months was not associated with procedural success or failure. Conclusions: Early AF recurrence peaks within the first few weeks after PVI, but continues at a lower level until the completion of monitoring. A blanking period of 3 months is justified to identify patients with AF recurrences that do not portend procedure failure. Freedom from AF in the first 2 weeks following ablation significantly predicts long-term AF freedom. [source] A comparison of white-light cystoscopy and narrow-band imaging cystoscopy to detect bladder tumour recurrencesBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 9 2008Harry W. Herr OBJECTIVE To determine whether narrow-band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy enhances the detection of non-muscle-invasive bladder tumours over standard white-light imaging (WLI) cystoscopy, as surveillance WLI is the standard method used to diagnose patients with recurrent bladder tumours, but they can be missed by WLI cystoscopy, possibly accounting for early recurrences. PATIENTS AND METHODS We evaluated 427 patients for recurrent bladder tumours by WLI cystoscopy, followed by NBI cystoscopy as a further procedure, using the same video-cystoscope. Recurrent tumours visualized by WLI or NBI cystoscopy were mapped, imaged, biopsied and subsequently treated by transurethral resection (TUR) or fulguration. Biopsies or TUR specimens obtained by WLI and NBI were examined separately for presence of tumour. RESULTS In all, 103 patients (24%) had tumour recurrences; 90 (87%) were detected by both WLI and NBI and another 13 (100%) only by NBI cystoscopy. NBI detected extra papillary tumours or more extensive carcinoma in situ in 58 (56%) patients found to have recurrences. The mean number of recurrent tumours visualized on WLI cystoscopy was 2.3, vs to 3.4 seen on NBI cystoscopy (P = 0.01). CONCLUSION NBI cystoscopy improved the detection of recurrent non-muscle-invasive bladder tumours over standard WLI cystoscopy. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||