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Important Prognostic Factor (important + prognostic_factor)
Selected AbstractsSingle-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] Analysis of micrometastatic disease in histologically negative lymph nodes of patients with adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus or gastric cardiaDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 6 2008C. J. Buskens SUMMARY., Lymphatic dissemination is the most important prognostic factor in patients with esophageal carcinoma. However, the clinical significance of lymph node micrometastases is still debated due to contradictory results. The aim of the present study was to identify the incidence of potentially relevant micrometastatic disease in patients with histologically node-negative esophageal adenocarcinoma and to analyze the sensitivity and specificity of three different immunohistochemical assays. From a consecutive series of 79 patients who underwent a transthoracic resection with extended 2-field lymphadenectomy, all 20 patients with pN0 esophageal adenocarcinoma were included in this study. A total of 578 lymph nodes were examined for the presence of micrometastases by immunohistochemical analysis with the antibodies Ber-EP4, AE1/AE3 and CAM 5.2. Lymph node micrometastases were detected in five of the 20 patients (25%). They were identified in 16 of the 578 lymph nodes examined (2.8%) and most frequently detected with the Ber-EP4 and AE1/AE3 antibody (sensitivity 95% and 79% respectively). In 114 of the 559 negative lymph nodes (20.4%), positive single cells were found that did not demonstrate malignant characteristics. These false-positive cells were more frequently found with the AE1/AE3 staining (specificity of the Ber-Ep4 and AE1/AE3 antibody 94% and 84% respectively). The presence of nodal micrometastases was associated with the development of locoregional recurrences (P=0.01), distant metastases (P=0.01), and a reduced overall survival (log rank test, P=0.009). For the detection of clinically relevant micrometastatic disease in patients operated upon for adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus or gastric cardia, Ber-EP4 is the antibody of first choice because of its high sensitivity and specificity. Immunohistochemically detected micrometastases in histologically negative lymph nodes have potential prognostic significance and are associated with a high incidence of both locoregional and systemic recurrence. Therefore, this technique has the potential to refine the staging system for esophageal cancer and to help identify patients who will not be cured by surgery alone. [source] Acute Postoperative Seizures after Frontal Lobe Cortical Resection for Intractable Partial EpilepsyEPILEPSIA, Issue 6 2003Simona Tigaran Summary: Purpose: To evaluate the incidence and prognostic importance of acute postoperative seizures (APOSs) occurring in the first week after a focal corticectomy in patients with partial epilepsy of frontal lobe origin. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 65 patients who underwent a frontal lobe cortical resection for intractable partial epilepsy between April 1987 and December 2000. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 1 year after surgery. Results: APOSs occurred in 17 (26%) patients. None of the following factors was shown to be significantly associated with the occurrence of APOSs: gender, duration of epilepsy, etiology for seizure disorder, use of subdural or depth electrodes, surgical pathology, or postoperative risk factor for seizures. Patients with APOSs were older at seizure onset and at the time of surgery (p = 0.003 and p = 0.05, respectively). At last follow-up, patients who had APOSs had a seizure-free outcome similar to that of individuals without APOSs (47.1% vs. 50.0%; p = 0.77). Patients with APOSs appeared less likely to have a favorable outcome [i.e., fewer than three seizures per year and >95% decrease in seizure activity (58.8 vs. 70.8%; p = 0.35)]. This result may not have reached statistical significance because of the sample size. No evidence suggested that precipitating factors or the timing of APOSs was an important prognostic factor. Conclusions: The presence of APOSs after frontal lobe surgery for intractable epilepsy does not preclude a significant reduction in seizure tendency. These findings may be useful in counseling patients who undergo surgical treatment for frontal lobe epilepsy. [source] Hepatocyte growth factor is a significant risk factor for white matter lesions in Japanese type 2 diabetic patientsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 7 2010Futoshi Anan Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (7): 585,590 Abstract Background, The presence of white matter lesions (WML) is an important prognostic factor for the development of stroke. Elevated hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) levels are associated with a high mortality rate in type 2 diabetic patients. The preliminary study was therefore designed to test the hypothesis that the presence of WML correlates with HGF and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic patients not receiving insulin treatment. Material and methods, Based on brain magnetic resonance imaging, 92 type 2 diabetic patients were divided into two groups: WML-positive group (age 60 ± 5 years, mean ± SD, n = 35) and WML-negative group (age 59 ± 6 years, mean ± SD, n = 57. The level of blood glucose was assessed by fasting plasma glucose, fasting immunoreactive insulin, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Results, The body mass index was higher in the WML-positive group than that in the WML-negative group (P < 0·005). Plasma levels of triglycerides were higher while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was lower in the WML-positive group than in the WML-negative group (P < 0·01 and P < 0·0001 respectively). Fasting plasma glucose (P < 0·0001), insulin concentrations (P < 0·0001), HOMA index (P < 0·0001) and HGF (< 0·0001) levels were higher in the WML-positive group than in the WML-negative group. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that WML was independently predicted by the high HGF and insulin resistance (P < 0·0001 and P < 0·0001 respectively). Conclusion, The results of this preliminary study indicate that the presence of WML was associated with the high HGF and insulin resistance in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. [source] Bulky disease is the most important prognostic factor in Hodgkin lymphoma stage IIBEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2003Ingrid Glimelius Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate treatment results for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients younger than 60 yr in stage IIB, treated according to the Swedish National Care Programme. The intention was also to identify specific subgroups depending on the number of negative prognostic factors the patients have, in order to optimise and differentiate future treatment. In total, 99 patients with HL stage IIB, diagnosed between 1985 and 1994, have been analysed. There were 47 men and 52 women and the median age was 33 yr (range 17,59). Eighty-six patients presented with supradiaphragmatic disease and 13 with infradiaphragmatic. The HL specific and overall 10-yr survival was 73 and 65%, respectively. The HL-specific survival for patients in pathological stage IIB tended to be better, although not statistically significant than for clinical stage IIB, despite less chemotherapy (P = 0.1). The patients in stage IIB who were selected for laparotomy were, however, younger and with fewer negative prognostic factors. The only significant negative prognostic factor was bulky disease (P = 0.001). The following factors also tended to have a negative influence on the prognosis although not statistically significant: the International Prognostic Score, the number of involved lymph node stations, extranodal involvement and leucocyte count >15 × 109/L. In conclusion, we suggest that bulky disease should be taken into account when treating patients with stage IIB HL. [source] Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors of the head and neck: Management of 10 cases and literature review,HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 5 2007Amir Minovi MD Abstract Background. This study analyzes the management and outcomes of a series of 10 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) of the head and neck. Methods. From 1984 to 2004, 10 patients underwent surgical treatment of a MPNST. We retrospectively reviewed presenting symptoms, radiological findings, surgical management, and follow-up status and performed a literature review. Results. Eight tumors were located at the lateral skull base; 2 involved the vagus nerve in isolation. Two lesions were growing within the sinonasal tract. The most common presenting symptom was a rapidly enlarging cervical mass. Seventy percent of the tumors could be resected completely. Long-term follow-up showed a 2-year disease-specific survival rate of 50% and 5-year survival rate of 20%. Negative prognostic indicators were advanced tumor stage, early recurrence, and presumably also the presence of von Recklinghausen's disease. Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy was found to make no difference in outcome. Conclusions. Although rare, MPNST is one of the most aggressive tumors in the head and neck area. Complete tumor removal is the mainstay of treatment and most important prognostic factor of MPNST. Adjuvant radiotherapy should be used to assist surgical excision in local control. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy remains controversial. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2007. [source] Clinical relevance of three subtypes of primary sinonasal lymphoma characterized by immunophenotypic analysisHEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 7 2004Gwi Eon Kim MD Abstract Background. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical relevance of subtypes categorized by immunophenotypic analysis in primary sinonasal lymphomas. Methods. Eighty patients with localized non-Hodgkin's lymphoma involving the nasal cavity and/or paranasal sinuses were divided into three subtypes on the basis of their immunohistochemical findings: (A) B-cell lymphoma (n = 19), (B) T-cell lymphoma (n = 27), and (C) natural killer (NK)/T-cell lymphoma (n = 34). The clinicopathologic profiles, immunophenotypic data, patterns of treatment failure, and survival data among the three patient groups were retrospectively compared. Results. The nasal cavity was the predominant site of involvement in T-cell and NK/T-cell lymphoma, whereas sinus involvement without nasal disease was common in B-cell lymphoma. Systemic B symptoms were frequently observed in NK/T-cell lymphoma. Almost all patients with NK/T-cell lymphoma showed a strong association with the Epstein-Barr virus by in situ hybridization studies. Sixty-five patients (81%) patients achieved complete remission after initial treatment, but 36 (55%) of these subsequently experienced treatment failure. Although there were no significant differences in locoregional failure rates among the patients of the three groups, distant failure was far more common in B-cell or NK/T-cell lymphoma than in T-cell lymphoma (p = .005). Most B-cell lymphoma cases showed a predilection for sites of systemic failure in the nodal and extranodal sites below the diaphragm, such as the paraaortic lymph nodes or the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, whereas patients with NK/T-cell lymphoma showed an increased risk of systemic dissemination to the skin, testes, or GI tract, including the development of hemophagocytic syndrome. The 5-year actuarial and disease-free survival rates for all patients were 57% and 51%, respectively. Of the three subtypes of primary sinonasal lymphomas, T-cell lymphoma seemed to carry the most favorable prognosis and NK/T-cell lymphoma the worst. (The 5-year actuarial survival rate was 57% for B-cell lymphoma, 80% for T-cell lymphoma, 37% for NK/T-cell lymphoma; p = .02, log-rank.) By univariate and multivariate analyses, immunophenotype was identified as the most important prognostic factor. Conclusions. Our data indicate that the three subtypes of primary sinonasal lymphomas classified by immunohistochemical studies exhibit different clinical profiles, different patterns of failure, and different treatment outcomes. Given these observations, it is concluded that the recognition of these distinct subsets, diagnosed on the basis of immunophenotypic study, is very important and clinically relevant in predicting their potential behavior and prognosis. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck26: 584,593, 2004 [source] Early change in bilirubin levels is an important prognostic factor in severe alcoholic hepatitis treated with prednisoloneHEPATOLOGY, Issue 6 2003Philippe Mathurin M.D. Early identification of patients with severe (discriminant function ,32) biopsy-proven alcoholic hepatitis (AH) who are not responding to corticosteroids would be clinically relevant. Our goal was to develop simple criteria that will help physicians to promptly identify nonresponders to corticosteroids. A total of 238 patients were included. We used 6 months survival as an end point because of the rule requiring 6 months for listing alcoholic patients for transplantation. Overall survival at 1 and 6 months was 85% ± 2.3% and 64.3% ± 3.3%, respectively. An early change in bilirubin levels (ECBL) at 7 days (defined as bilirubin level at 7 days lower than bilirubin level on the first day of treatment) was observed in 73% of patients. At 7 days, in patients with ECBL, bilirubin decreased (84 ± 75 ,mol/L [4.94 ± 4.40 mg/dL]), whereas it increased in patients without ECBL (76.5 ± 77 ,mol/L [4.50 ± 4.54 mg/dL], P < .0001). Ninety-five percent of patients with ECBL continued to have improved liver function during treatment. At 6 months, survival of patients with ECBL was significantly higher than that of patients without ECBL, 82.8% ± 3.3% versus 23% ± 5.8%, P < .0001. On multivariate analysis, ECBL, discriminant function and creatinine were independent prognostic variables, and ECBL had the most important prognostic value. In conclusion, ECBL is a very simple predictive factor for identifying nonresponders. A recommendation to discontinue corticosteroids after 7 days in patients without ECBL, suggested by our results, awaits additional confirmation. [source] Metastatic melanoma volume in sentinel nodes: objective stereology-based measurement predicts disease recurrence and survivalHISTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 7 2009Rikke Riber-Hansen Aims:, Sentinel lymph node (SLN) status is the most important prognostic factor in intermediate thickness melanoma. The amount of metastatic disease in positive SLNs varies greatly between patients, and this tumour burden appears to influence the prognosis of node-positive patients. The aim was to use objective stereological techniques to correlate accurately total SLN tumour burden with recurrence and patient survival. Methods and results:, SLNs from 327 patients were examined by complete step sectioning and immunohistochemistry. The total metastasis volume (TMV) of 156 positive SLNs from 99 patients (30.3%) was measured using stereological methods based on the 2D-nucleator and Cavalieri's principle. The maximum metastasis diameter was also measured. These two measurements were correlated with disease recurrence and patient survival. The mean TMV for SLN+ patients was 10.5 mm3 (median 0.05 mm3; range 0.0001,623.7 mm3). Median follow-up was 26.3 months. On multivariate analysis, TMV was an independent predictor of recurrence when corrected for primary tumour thickness (P = 0.001) and was a stronger prognosticator compared with the maximum metastasis diameter (P < 0.0001 versus P = 0.01). Conclusions:, Combining total step sectioning of SLNs with stereological assessment of metastases, we found metastasis volume to be a highly significant predictor of disease recurrence and survival. [source] Improved lymph node retrieval in Whipple specimens as a result of implementation of a new uncinate margin protocolHPB, Issue 5 2007CORWYN H. ROWSELL Abstract Background. Lymph node status is an important prognostic factor in pancreatic and peri-ampullary adenocarcinoma. We recently changed our protocol for assessment of the uncinate margin of Whipple specimens and noted that lymph nodes were often present in uncinate margin sections. Materials and methods. Whipple specimens from 2004 to 2006 were divided into two groups, those that were handled according to the en face protocol, and those handled according to the radial protocol. The numbers of lymph nodes found in uncinate margin sections were assessed, as well as the total number of nodes found in the specimen. Results. Sixteen cases were handled according to the en face protocol, and 20 according to the radial protocol. In the en face group, 2 benign nodes were found in the uncinate margin (0.1 nodes per case), while in the radial group, 36 nodes (1.8 nodes per case) were identified (p=0.0005). Eight cases in the latter group had positive nodes in the uncinate margin sections. In two of these cases the positive lymph node was the only lymph node with metastasis, and in an additional case the involved node was one of two positive lymph nodes. Total lymph node retrieval was 15.5 lymph nodes per case in the en face group, and 20 nodes per case in the radial group (p=0.02). Discussion. The improved lymph node retrieval may be due to additional nodes found in radial sections of the uncinate margin, or alternatively, due to increased vigilance in specimen handling. In 3 of 20 cases, nodes found in the radial sections influenced staging. [source] Survivin in esophageal cancer: An accurate prognostic marker for squamous cell carcinoma but not adenocarcinomaINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 7 2006Antonio Rosato Abstract We quantified the expression of survivin, both as mRNA in real-time PCR and protein in immunohistochemistry, in tumor samples of 112 patients with esophageal cancer (56 squamous cell carcinomas and 56 adenocarcinomas). Overall survival of squamous cell carcinoma patients with high survivin mRNA levels was significantly less than that of patients with low survivin mRNA levels (p = 0.0033). Distribution pattern of survivin (nuclear vs. cytoplasmic or mixed) was not correlated to survival, while the extent of immunostaining was significantly correlated to survivin mRNA values (p = 0.016) and had prognostic relevance in univariate analysis (p = 0.0012). Cox's proportional-hazard regression model showed that tumor survivin expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was the most important prognostic factor, independent of tumor stage and other histopathological factors, both as mRNA relative value (p = 0.0259) and protein immunostaining (p = 0.0147). In esophageal adenocarcinoma, survivin expression and pattern of distribution had no prognostic relevance. Thus, quantifying survivin expression provides a prognostic marker only for esophageal squamous tumors. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Endoscopic resection of gastrointestinal lesions: Advancement in the application of endoscopic submucosal dissectionJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 8 2010Abby Conlin Abstract Curative endoscopic resection is now a viable option for a range of neoplastic lesions of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) with low invasive potential. Risk of lymph node metastasis is the most important prognostic factor in selecting appropriate lesions for endoscopic therapy, and assessment of invasion depth is vital in this respect. To determine appropriate treatment, detailed endoscopic diagnosis and estimation of depth using magnifying chromoendoscopy is the gold standard in Japan. En bloc resection is the most desirable endoscopic therapy as risk of local recurrence is low and accurate histological diagnosis of invasion depth is possible. Endoscopic mucosal resection is established worldwide for the ablation of early neoplasms, but en bloc removal using this technique is limited to small lesions. Evidence suggests that a piecemeal resection technique has a higher local recurrence risk, therefore necessitating repeated surveillance endoscopy and further therapy. More advanced endoscopic techniques developed in Japan allow effective en bloc removal of early GIT neoplasms, regardless of size. This review discusses assessment of GIT lesions and options for endoscopic therapy with special reference to the introduction of endoscopic submucosal dissection into Western countries. [source] Debulking surgery for incompletely operated advanced epithelial ovarian carcinomaJOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY, Issue 3 2009Murat Gultekin MD Abstract Background and Objectives There is still no any data about the role of re-operation and re-debulking in previously incompletely operated advanced staged patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC). In this study, the authors aimed to analyze the effect of an incomplete primary surgery on patient prognosis. Methods Clinicopathological variables of 317 advanced staged EOC patients were retrospectively collected. Results Twenty-nine patients had an initial incomplete surgery and referred to our center for debulking while remaining 288 had undergone primary debulking surgery at our institution. Comparison of the two groups with respect to clinicopathological variables could not reveal significant difference. Median survival was 3.24 years for re-operated patients while it was 2.07 years for patients who had undergone primary debulking surgery. Upon multivariate analysis, final optimal debulking, tumor grade and a history of an incomplete surgery before the final debulking were the significant prognosticators. A subgroup analysis of re-staged patients could not reveal a significant role for either the type or the time interval between the operations. Conclusion A history of an incomplete primary surgery does not seem to adversely affect patient prognosis and the optimal cytoreductive success achieved in final debulking surgery is still the most important prognostic factor. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:258,260. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Intensive induction chemotherapy with regimen containing intermediate dose cytarabine in the treatment of de novo acute myeloid leukemia,AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEMATOLOGY, Issue 7 2009Jiazhuo Liu To improve long-term outcome of de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients by intermediate dose of cytarabine integrated in induction therapy and to explore the impact of cytogenetic abnormalities on the prognosis. Eighty-seven AML patients were treated with HAD regimen containing intermediate dose cytarabine (IDAra-C) as induction therapy, 83 from which with karyotype results were divided into three cytogenetic groups according to SWOG criteria. Complete remission (CR) rate, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) among different groups were evaluated. The CR rate of the 87 cases was 80/87 (92%). Median DFS and OS have not reached (NR). DFS rates at 1 and 3 years were 76.3% and 63.4%, respectively. OS rates at 1 and 3 years were 86.0% and 58.7%, respectively. According to SWOG criteria, CR rate, median DFS, and OS were 100%, NR and NR for the favorable group; 88.9%, NR, and 16 months for the intermediate group; 83.3%, 4.5 months, and 7.5 months for the adverse group. The differences among the three groups were statistically significant excepting for CR rate between adverse and intermediate groups. HAD regimen containing IDAra-C as induction chemotherapy regimen is effective in de novo AML of adult patients and can achieve higher CR rate and longer survival than standard dose of cytarabine (SDAra-C) regimen. Most of the patients were able to endure the therapy. Cytogenetics is still an important prognostic factor despite of the incorporation of IDAra-C in induction chemotherapy. The differences among the three groups were statistically significant. Am. J. Hematol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Septic arthritis in patients followed-up in neonatal intensive care unitPEDIATRICS INTERNATIONAL, Issue 6 2002Sevki Kabak Abstract Background: Septic arthritis is an uncommon, but serious disorder in neonates. Most patients survive with permanent handicaps. Due to the rarity of this condition in neonates and paucity of signs and symptoms, the diagnosis of septic arthritis in newborns is more difficult than in older children. Methods: Septic arthritis or suppurative arthritis is an infection of the joint by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, mycobacteria and fungi. Purulent synovial fluid, positive culture and positive Gram stain were accepted as a gold standard for exact diagnosis. Fourteen neonates who were followed-up in a neonatal intensive care unit, with septic arthritis, were included in a study based on a review of medical reports and a long-term clinical and radiological follow-up. Clinical symptoms, bacteriology, risk factors and outcomes are discussed. Results: Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant causative organism. Risk factors for septic arthritis were prematurity (4/14), umbilical catheterization or venous catheterization (3/14), sepsis (3/14), perinatal asphyxia (2/14) and difficult birth (1/14). All cases of septic arthritis in neonates were improved without squealae except in two patients. One patient died and one patient had severe squealae. In these two patients, the duration of disease from clinical onset to initiation of therapy was long. Conclusion: The most important prognostic factor in predicting a favorable outcome in neonatal septic arthritis is early diagnosis and therapy. When appropriate treatment is delayed, catastrophic sequelae are inevitable. Early diagnosis of the condition and rapid removal of pus are mandatory for the survival of the joint. Long-term follow-up may reveal effects of epiphyseal damage, early degenerative changes and limitation of the range of motion. [source] Severe obstructive sleep apnea: Sleepy versus nonsleepy patientsTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 3 2010Arie Oksenberg PhD Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: To compare demographic and polysomnographic data of sleepy versus nonsleepy severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients according to the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Study Design: Retrospective cohort. Methods: Six hundred forty-four consecutive severe (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] , 30) adult OSA patients who underwent a polysomnographic evaluation in our sleep disorders unit. ESS data were available in 569 (88.3%). Three hundred twenty-seven (57.5%) patients had ESS > 10. Results: Sleepy severe OSA patients are slightly younger and more obese than nonsleepy patients. These sleepy patients have shorter sleep latency and lower percentage of slow wave sleep. They consistently show a higher AHI, both supine and lateral AHI, have a higher number of short arousals, and a higher arousal index. They also have higher snoring loudness in the supine and both lateral positions and a lower minimal SaO2 in rapid eye movement and non-rapid eye movement sleep. After adjusting for confounders, a logistic regression model points to apnea index as a significant prognostic factor for excessive daytime sleepiness. Conclusions: Severe OSA sleepy patients have a syndrome that is significantly more severe than nonsleepy patients. Sleepy patients have worse sleep-related breathing parameters, and their sleep patterns are lighter and more fragmented than nonsleepy patients. Apnea index appears as an important prognostic factor for excessive daytime sleepiness. Laryngoscope, 2010 [source] Urinary symptoms, quality of life and sexual function in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy before and after prostatectomy: a prospective studyBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 3 2003M. Gacci OBJECTIVE To evaluate urinary symptoms, sexual dysfunction and quality of life in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) before and after open prostatectomy, using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), the International Continence Society (ICS)-,BPH' (ICS- male, ICS- sex and ICS- QoL) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires. PATIENTS AND METHODS Sixty men with BPH (mean age 68 years) underwent a digital rectal examination, transurethral ultrasonography, measurement of total prostatic specific antigen serum level and uroflowmetry. Their urinary symptoms, sexual function and quality of life were fully evaluated using the IPSS, ICS-,BPH' and IIEF before and 6 months after suprapubic prostatectomy. The body mass index (BMI) was also calculated for each patient. Univariate analysis was used to examine the relationship between symptom scores and age, tobacco use, alcohol intake and BMI. RESULTS In a univariate analysis, age was the most important prognostic factor for both urinary and sexual symptoms. Prostatectomy resulted in a significant improvement in obstructive (mean 9.68 to 3.38) and irritative symptom (6.70 to 3.06), and quality-of-life scores (3.41 to 1.34). ICS- male scores were both significantly decreased, the mean voiding score from 13.72 to 10.28 and the incontinence score from 10.43 to 7.81. There was also a significant decrease in the ICS- QoL symptom score (from 9.20 to 7.27). Comparative results between IIEF and ICS- sex showed no improvement in sexual scores after open surgery, but there was a significant increase in sexual desire and overall satisfaction (both P = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS The combined use of the IPSS, ICS-,BPH' and IIEF allows an evaluation of the relationship between age, prostatic symptoms and sexual dysfunction. Age may be considered both a direct and indirect (BPH-related) prognostic factor for sexual activity. Suprapubic prostatectomy resolves obstructive symptoms, and maintains sexual desire, overall sexual satisfaction and an improvement in quality of life. However, irritative symptoms, erection, orgasm and sexual intercourse satisfaction are not significantly altered. [source] Additional reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction of peripheral slices is not superior to analysis of the central slice in sentinel lymph nodes from melanoma patientsBRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2004H-J. Blaheta Summary Background The status of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) is an important prognostic factor in patients with cutaneous melanoma. Reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction (RT,PCR) has been used as a sensitive means of detecting tumour cells in SLNs. Objectives To determine whether RT,PCR analysis of the SLN using both the central and the peripheral slices is more sensitive than molecular analysis of the central slice only. Methods Eighty-three SLNs from 59 patients with primary cutaneous melanoma were identified by SLN mapping. All SLNs were bisected along their longitudinal axis to produce two equal halves. One half was used for histology and immunohistochemistry, and the other was analysed by RT,PCR for tyrosinase and MelanA. Parallel to the longitudinal axis, one central slice (approximately 2 mm in thickness) was cut manually. This central slice was used for our standard RT,PCR protocol. In the current study, up to eight additional peripheral slices (each approximately 2 mm in thickness) were cut parallel to the existing cut surface. These peripheral slices were analysed by additional RT,PCR. Results Standard RT,PCR of the central slice yielded positive results in 34 of 59 patients (57%). Additional RT,PCR of peripheral slices demonstrated positive findings in six additional patients (10%) who were initially negative by standard RT,PCR of the central slice. In detail, seven of those 34 patients positive by standard RT,PCR of the central slice had positive histological findings. In each of these seven patients, RT,PCR was positive both in the central slice as well as in the peripheral slices. The remaining 27 patients with positive RT,PCR results of the central slice showed negative histological findings. Only nine (33%) of these 27 patients had a positive RT,PCR also in the peripheral slices. Finally, all 25 patients with negative RT,PCR results in the central slice showed negative histological findings. Six of these patients (24%) revealed positive RT,PCR results on the analysis of peripheral slices. However, three of these patients expressed only MelanA but not tyrosinase. Thirty lymph nodes from 24 nonmelanoma patients served as negative controls for RT,PCR. In three of these 24 patients (13%) expression of MelanA but not tyrosinase was detected by RT,PCR. Conclusions Molecular analysis of peripheral slices yielded six additional patients (10%) positive by RT,PCR who were initially negative by standard RT,PCR of the central slice. However, three of these six patients were found to express only MelanA but not tyrosinase. As MelanA expression was also found in 13% of control lymph nodes, positive MelanA expression alone in SLNs of melanoma patients requires cautious interpretation in order to avoid false-positive findings. Thus, additional molecular processing of peripheral slices did not significantly increase the number of patients with RT,PCR-positive SLNs. [source] Influence of surgical and postoperative treatment on survival in differentiated thyroid cancerBRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 5 2007C. I. Lundgren Background: The extent of thyroidectomy in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) remains controversial. The aim of this study was to identify how surgical technique and postoperative treatments influence survival and locoregional recurrence in DTC. Methods: A nested case-control study was conducted in a cohort of 5123 patients diagnosed with DTC in Sweden between 1958 and 1987. One matched control subject was selected randomly for each patient who died from DTC. Details regarding surgery and postoperative treatments were obtained from medical records. The effect of treatment on survival was estimated by conditional logistic regression. Results: Patients not treated surgically had a poorer prognosis, but the risk of death from DTC was not affected by the choice of surgical technique. The extent of surgery influenced survival only in patients with TNM stage III disease. Locoregional recurrence resulted in a fivefold increased risk of death. Postoperative treatment was not associated with improved survival. Conclusion: In operated patients, the most important prognostic factor was complete removal of the tumour. The extent of removal of remaining thyroid tissue was of prognostic importance in stage III disease only. Adjuvant postoperative treatment did not influence the prognosis favourably. Copyright © 2007 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Initial response to glucocorticoidsCANCER, Issue 2 2006A potentially important prognostic factor in patients with primary CNS lymphoma Abstract BACKGROUND Known prognostic variables in patients with primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSL) include age, Karnofsky performance status, involvement of deep regions of the brain, intensity of blood,brain barrier disruption, and treatment with radiation and chemotherapy. PCNSL often responds transiently to glucocorticoids administered to control neurologic symptoms before radiation or chemotherapy. This retrospective chart review was designed to estimate the prognostic significance of a clinical or radiologic response to initial glucocorticoid therapy. METHODS By using data from The Johns Hopkins Cancer Registry from January 1980 to June 2001, a total of 76 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative adults with newly diagnosed PCNSL were identified. Nineteen patients with uninformative medical records were excluded from the study. RESULTS The median survival of the remaining 57 patients was 11.8 months. The median survival for the 48 patients who had clinical response to initial steroid therapy was 17.9 months, and for nonresponders, it was 5.5 months (P = 0.05). The 16 patients with documented radiologic response had a median survival of 117.0 months compared with 5.5 months for nonresponders (P = 0.001). After adjusting for known prognostic factors (age and treatment), significant reduction in risk of death was noted in patients who had either clinical (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16,0.99}) or radiologic response (HR = 0.14; 95% CI, 0.04,0.46) to glucocorticoids given before radiation or chemotherapy. CONCLUSION This analysis suggests that initial response to treatment with glucocorticoids may be an important prognostic factor in patients with PCNSL. Cancer 2006. © 2005 American Cancer Society. [source] Preradiation chemotherapy for pediatric patients with high-grade glioma,CANCER, Issue 1 2002Dr. med. habil, Johannes E. A. Wolff M.D. Abstract BACKGROUND To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of intensive chemotherapy given prior to irradiation in pediatric patients with malignant glioma, the Society of Pediatric Oncology in Germany started a randomized trial in 1991. The high-grade glioma strata had to be closed because of insufficient patient accrual. The follow-up data from these patients are reported. METHODS Fifty-two patients with World Health Organization (WHO) Grade 4 malignant glioma (n = 27 patients) or with WHO Grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma (n = 25 patients) between the ages of 3 years and 17 years were available for analysis. The tumor locations were supratentorial in 42 patients, the cerebellum in 8 patients, and the spinal cord in 2 patients (the brainstem was excluded). Tumor surgeries were biopsy in 10 patients, partial resection in 5 patients, subtotal resection in 10 patients, and macroscopic total resection in 21 patients. Patients received either 54 grays of irradiation (n = 22 patients) followed by chemotherapy with lomustine, vincristine, and cisplatin (maintenance chemotherapy) or sandwich chemotherapy (n = 30 patients), which consisted of ifosfamide, etoposide, methotrexate, cisplatin, and cytosine arabinoside followed by irradiation. RESULTS The extent of resection was the most important prognostic factor. The median survival was 5.2 years for patients who underwent tumor resection of , 90% compared with 1.3 years for patients who underwent less than complete resection (P < 0.0005). After undergoing macroscopic total resection, sandwich chemotherapy (n = 15 patients) resulted in better overall survival (median, 5.2 years) compared with the maintenance protocol (n = 16 patients; median survival, 1.9 years; P = 0.015). A Cox multivariate regression analysis showed better survival for female patients (P = 0.025), WHO Grade 3 disease (P = 0.016), tumor resection of , 90% (P = 0.003), irradiation with , 54 grays (P = 0.003), and sandwich chemotherapy (P = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that early, intensive chemotherapy increases survival rates in patients with malignant glioma who undergo complete resection. Cancer 2002;94:264,71. © 2002 American Cancer Society. [source] Molecular markers associated with lymph node metastasis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by genome-wide expression profilingCANCER SCIENCE, Issue 1 2010Seiko Hirono Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is the most important prognostic factor in patients undergoing surgical resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In this study, we aimed to identify molecular markers associated with LNM in PDAC using genome-wide expression profiling. In this study, laser microdissection and genome-wide transcriptional profiling were used to identify genes that were differentially expressed between PDAC cells with and without LNM obtained from 20 patients with PDAC. Immunohistochemical staining was used to confirm the clinical significance of these markers in an additional validation set of 43 patients. In the results, microarray profiling identified 46 genes that were differently expressed between PDAC with and without LNM with certain significance. Four of these biomarkers were validated by immunohistochemical staining for association with LNM in PDAC in an additional validation set of patients. In 63 patients with PDAC, significant LNM predictors in PDAC elucidated from multivariate analysis were low expression of activating enhancer binding protein 2 (AP2,) (P = 0.012) and high expression of mucin 17 (MUC17) (P = 0.0192). Furthermore, multivariate analysis revealed that AP2, -low expression and MUC17 -high expression are independent prognostic factors for poor overall survival (P = 0.0012, 0.0001, respectively). In conclusion, AP2, and MUC17 were independent markers associated with LNM of PDAC. These two markers were also associated with survival in patients with resected PDAC. We demonstrate that AP2, and MUC17 may serve as potential prognostic molecular markers for LNM in patients with PDAC. (Cancer Sci 2009) [source] Cytogenetic profile of locally invasive posterior uveal melanomaACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2009R PARROZZANI Purpose To analyze cytogenetic profile of locally invasive posterior uveal melanoma (UM). Methods Twenty consecutive cases of large posterior UM with histopathologically confirmed extrascleral extension were included in this non-comparative cases series. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the intraocular tumor portion was performed using 25-gauge trans-scleral approach, immediately after enucleation of the globe. FNAB of the extrascleral tumor portion was also performed when it was > 1mm in thickness. Sampled material underwent fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Follow-up was longer than 12 months. Results Six tumors (30%) had both intraocular and extraocular tumor samplings, whereas 14 tumors (70%) showed extrascleral extension less than 1 mm in thickness. Monosomy 3 was found in 5 tumors (25%), whereas disomy 3 in 15 tumors (75%). Cytogenetic profile of the intraocular tumor portion appears to be maintained in the extrascleral extension in all cases (100%). Five patients (25%) developed metastatic disease during follow-up (all had monosomy 3 tumors). Conclusion Extrascleral extension appears more frequent in disomy 3 tumors. Cytogenetic profile of locally invasive posterior UM is maintained in the extrascleral tumor portion and must be considered the most important prognostic factor in locally invasive tumors. [source] Detection of lymph node metastases in colorectal carcinomaCOLORECTAL DISEASE, Issue 5 2001S. T. O'Dwyer The detection of lymph node metastases is the single most important prognostic factor for patients with colorectal cancer. This review outlines the difficulties and methods of detecting positive lymph node metastases in this disease. An outline of traditional diagnostic methods including preoperative ultrasound and cross sectional imaging techniques are evaluated alongside newer modalities including immunoscintography and PET scanning and intraoperative radioguided imaging. Pathological methods of detecting positive nodal disease using standard histopathological staging, enhanced lymph node harvesting and determination of micrometastases are also discussed. [source] Evaluation of the American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging System for Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Proposal of a New Staging SystemDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 11 2005Scott M. Dinehart MD Purpose. To identify and propose corrections for deficiencies in the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) system for staging cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Materials and Methods. Prognostic factors for CSCC were identified by retrospective analysis of the published literature. Limitations and deficiencies in the current AJCC staging system for CSCC were then determined using these prognostic factors. Results. Size, histologic differentiation, location, previous treatment, depth of invasion, tumor thickness, histologic subtype, perineural spread, and scar etiology are the most powerful tumor prognostic indicators in patients with localized disease. The most important prognostic factors for patients with nodal metastases are the location, number, and size of the positive lymph nodes. Proposed changes for the T classification include increased stratification of tumor size, identification of patients with perineural invasion, and the addition of tumor thickness or depth of invasion. The N classification has been expanded to include the number and size of nodal metastases. Conclusion. The current AJCC staging system for carcinoma of the skin has deficiencies that limit its use for CSCC. The proposed TMN staging system for CSCC more accurately reflects the prognosis and natural history of CSCC. SCOTT M. DINEHART, MD, AND STEVEN PETERSON, MD, HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS. [source] Association between smoking during radiotherapy and prognosis in head and neck cancer: A follow-up study ,HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 12 2002George P. Browman MD Abstract Background. The study objective was to confirm a previous finding that patients with stage III/IV squamous head and neck cancer (SHNC) who smoke during radiotherapy (RT) experience reduced survival. Methods. An observational cohort study. Patients' smoking status was assessed weekly by questionnaire plus blood cotinine. Patients were assessed every 3 to 4 months for survival. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards analyses were used to detect the independent contribution of smoking on survival. Results. Of 148 patients, 113 smoked during RT. Blood cotinine and smoking questionnaire responses were highly correlated (Spearman R = .69; p < .0005). Abstainers and very light smokers experienced better survival than light, moderate, and heavy smokers (median, 42 vs 29 months; p = .07). Tumor and nodal status and years smoked were the most important prognostic factors. Smoking during RT was not an independent predictor of survival, but baseline smoking status was (p = .016). Conclusion. Smoking status should be documented in all future trials of RT in SHNC to allow for pooled analyses with sufficient power to address this question. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 1031,1037, 2002 [source] Gene signatures of pulmonary metastases of renal cell carcinoma reflect the disease-free interval and the number of metastases per patientINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 2 2009Daniela Wuttig Abstract Our understanding of metastatic spread is limited and molecular mechanisms causing particular characteristics of metastasis are largely unknown. Herein, transcriptome-wide expression profiles of a unique cohort of 20 laser-resected pulmonary metastases (Mets) of 18 patients with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were analyzed to identify expression patterns associated with two important prognostic factors in RCC: the disease-free interval (DFI) after nephrectomy and the number of Mets per patient. Differentially expressed genes were identified by comparing early (DFI , 9 months) and late (DFI , 5 years) Mets, and Mets derived from patients with few (,8) and multiple (,16) Mets. Early and late Mets could be separated by the expression of genes involved in metastasis-associated processes, such as angiogenesis, cell migration and adhesion (e.g., PECAM1, KDR). Samples from patients with multiple Mets showed an elevated expression of genes associated with cell division and cell cycle (e.g., PBK, BIRC5, PTTG1) which indicates that a high number of Mets might result from an increased growth potential. Minimal sets of genes for the prediction of the DFI and the number of Mets per patient were identified. Microarray results were confirmed by quantitative PCR by including nine further pulmonary Mets of RCC. In summary, we showed that subgroups of Mets are distinguishable based on their expression profiles, which reflect the DFI and the number of Mets of a patient. To what extent the identified molecular factors contribute to the development of these characteristics of metastatic spread needs to be analyzed in further studies. © 2009 UICC [source] Long-term outcome of chronic hepatitis B based on histological grade and stageJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 3 2007Byung Kyu Park Abstract Background and Aim:, This study evaluated the long-term outcome and prognostic factors of chronic hepatitis B, based on histological grade and stage. Methods:, A total of 188 patients with chronic hepatitis B were followed for a mean 119.8 months. Ultrasonography and clinical assessment were performed regularly. In addition, liver biopsy specimens were re-evaluated based on histological grade and stage. Results:, During follow-up, cirrhosis developed in 62 patients, decompensation in 20 patients, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 21 patients. The serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level at the time of liver biopsy was significantly correlated with the grades of lobular and porto-periportal activity. The development of cirrhosis correlated well with the grade of porto-periportal activity and stage of fibrosis. The probabilities of developing cirrhosis, decompensation and HCC were significantly higher in patients whose ALT levels were persistently elevated without flares or flared-up without normalization than in patients whose ALT levels flared-up then normalized or were normally sustained. By multivariate analysis, age and biochemical profile during follow-up were independent prognostic factors for chronic hepatitis B. Conclusions:, The results demonstrate that histological grade and stage, and biochemical profile during follow-up in patients with chronic hepatitis B are important prognostic factors. Therefore, effective control of hepatitis activity might improve the long-term outcome of chronic hepatitis B patients. [source] Lymphatic vessel density in pulmonary adenocarcinoma immunohistochemically evaluated with anti-podoplanin or anti-D2-40 antibody is correlated with lymphatic invasion or lymph node metastasesPATHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 4 2007Yoshin Adachi In lung cancers, lymph node metastasis of cancer cells is one of the most important prognostic factors, and lymphatic vessel invasion (LVI) is very important in the stage preceding lymph node metastases. Recently, it has been reported that lymphatic vessel density (LVD) is associated with lymph node metastasis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between LVD and LVI based on the immunohistochemical expression of podoplanin or D2-40, which are new specific markers for lymphatic endothelium. Using 76 cases of pulmonary adenocarcinoma, the relationship between LVD and LVI, lymph node metastases, vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C), VEGF-D or hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) expression was investigated. LVD was significantly associated with LVI, lymph node metastases and VEGF-D expression. LVI was also associated with lymph node metastases, histological subtype, VEGF-C or VEGF-D expression. High LVD, induced by VEGF-C or VEGF-D expression of cancer cells, is a good indicator of lymphatic metastases and LVI in pulmonary adenocarcinoma. [source] Myelodysplastic syndromes associated with interstitial deletion of chromosome 5q: Clinicopathologic correlations and new insights from the prelenalidomide era,,AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEMATOLOGY, Issue 9 2008Shernan G. Holtan To better estimate prognosis for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) associated with clonal interstitial deletions of the long arm of chromosome 5 (del(5q)), we reviewed the medical records of 130 adults with del(5q) MDS seen at our institution over a 15-year period. Overall median survival of this cohort was 9.5 months, shorter than reported in earlier series. The least favorable outcomes are associated with complex cytogenetics, lack of any normal metaphases, normocytic rather than macrocytic erythrocyte indices, and low baseline lymphocyte counts. Lymphopenia but not neutropenia at the time of diagnosis appears to be a new adverse prognostic indicator. Cytogenetic breakpoints defined by G-banded karyotyping correlate poorly with particular disease features. Surprisingly, survival of patients with treatment-related MDS was equivalent to that of de novo MDS with del(5q) in this series. Morphologic features associated with del(5q) are diverse. Most patients with del(5q) MDS do not meet criteria for WHO-defined 5q-syndrome, and the presence of del(5q) does not appear to modify the clinical phenotype otherwise risk-stratified by the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS). Additional important prognostic factors not taken into account by the IPSS include the baseline erythrocyte indices, lymphocyte count, and clonal burden. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||