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Favorable Response (favorable + response)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Medical Sciences	88%
3 Other Domains	12%

Distribution within Medical Sciences

Neurology	36%
Oncology & Radiotherapy	22%
Dermatology	9%
7 Other Subdomains	33%

Selected Abstracts

Favorable Response to Analgesics Does Not Predict a Benign Etiology of Headache

HEADACHE, Issue 6 2008
Jennifer V. Pope MD
Background., Distinguishing between primary and secondary headaches (HAs) is essential for the safe and effective management of patients with HA. A favorable response to analgesics may be observed with both classes of HAs and therefore is not a good predictor of who needs further evaluation. Objective., To systematically review the data that a favorable response to analgesics including triptans should not be used to exclude a serious secondary cause of HA. Design., PubMed search of English-language articles between 1980 and 2007 and reference lists of these articles. Two authors independently reviewed articles for study results and quality. Inclusion was based on 100% agreement between authors. We included articles that described secondary HAs as (1) having a favorable response to analgesics and/or (2) having a favorable response to sumatriptan. Of the 548 studies identified by our search strategy, 18 were included in our final analysis. Results., Seven of the 18 studies found that 46/103 patients (44%) described a significant or complete resolution of secondary HA from medications such as anti-emetics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Eleven of the 18 articles including 25/25 patients (100%) described a significant or complete resolution of secondary HA from sumatriptan, a serotonin 5HT agonist. Conclusions., A favorable response to analgesics including triptans should not be used to exclude a serious secondary cause of HA. [source]

Favorable response of intraommaya topotecan for leptomeningeal metastasis of neuroblastoma after intravenous route failure

PEDIATRIC BLOOD & CANCER, Issue 1 2008
Nongnuch Sirachainan
Abstract A 3-year-old male, diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma, developed recurrent leptomeningeal metastasis after multi-modality treatment including multi-agent chemotherapy, surgery, high dose chemotherapy plus stem cell rescue, cis-retinoic acid and intravenous (IV) topotecan. He then received intraommaya (IO) topotecan three times weekly (maximum dose; 0.4 mg). A complete response was achieved by a resolution of malignant cells in cerebrospinal fluid and resolution leptomeningeal enhancement by brain MRI. Treatment toxicities included low-grade fever and minimal headache. The duration of treatment response from IO topotecan was 18 weeks. The survival time from CNS recurrence in this patient was 13 months. We suggest IO topotecan be considered for neoplastic meningitis of tumors with known sensitivity to topotecan. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:169,172. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Favorable response to soft tissue sarcoma therapy in an adolescent with embryonal renal sarcoma

PEDIATRIC BLOOD & CANCER, Issue 1 2004
Trent Hummel MD
Abstract Embryonal renal sarcomas were first identified in 1995 among banked tumor samples originally classified as adult Wilms tumor. Few long-term remissions were observed when these rare tumors were treated with chemotherapy usually used for childhood Wilms. Data were collected from the medical record of an adolescent female with embryonal renal sarcoma and treated with sarcoma-directed chemotherapy and radiation. At 66 months following diagnosis, the patient has no evidence of tumor but has experienced severe renal dysfunction and ovarian failure. We believe there is a subset of patients with disseminated embryonal renal sarcoma that respond to intense sarcoma-directed therapy. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Favorable response of pediatric stem cell recipients to human protein C concentrate substitution for veno-occlusive disease

PEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 1 2007
S. W. Eber
Abstract:, Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 is known to be elevated in patients with hepatic VOD after intensive chemotherapy. To re-establish endogenous fibrinolysis and to inhibit thrombin formation, we used non-APC (zymogen) to normalize PAI-1 levels. As a consequence of thrombin formation inhibition and the consecutive inhibition of the coagulation cascade, this treatment is expected to reduce the elevated D-dimer level. Six pediatric stem cell recipients with moderate or severe VOD after busulfan or total body irradiation conditioning regimen are reported here who were therapy-refractory to defibrotide or rt-PA therapy. All patients had low levels of PC activity (16,39%). The administration of PC (60,240 IU/kg) led to a rapid and sustained rise in PC activity (target level >80%) with near normalization of prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time in all patients. Elevated PAI-1 levels declined. Five of the six patients showed a good clinical response with prompt resolution of clinical, sonographic, and laboratory signs of hepatic blood flow obstruction, while one patient with severe VOD, as well as concomitant liver GVHD and CMV disease, had a slow but detectable response to PC therapy. All patients survived. [source]

Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrite Ion on a Toluidine Blue Sol-Gel Thin Film Electrode Derived from 3-Aminopropyl Trimethoxy Silane

ELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 22 2007
K. Thenmozhi
Abstract An organically modified sol-gel electrode using 3-aminopropyltrimethoxy silane for covalent immobilization of a redox mediator namely toluidine blue has been reported. Cyclic voltammetric characterization of the modified electrode in the potential range of 0.2,V to ,0.6,V exhibited stable voltammetric behavior in aqueous supporting electrolyte with a formal potential of ,0.265,V vs. SCE, corresponding to immobilized toluidine blue. The electrocatalytic activity of the modified electrode when tested towards nitrite ion exhibited a favorable response with the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrite occurring at a reduced potential of ,0.34,V. A good linear working range from 2.94×10,6,M to 2.11×10,3,M with a detection limit of 1.76×10,6,M and quantification limit of 5.87×10,6,M was obtained for nitrite determination. The stable and quick response (4,s) of the modified electrode towards nitrite under hydrodynamic conditions shows the feasibility of using the present sensor in flow systems. Significant improvements in the operational stability by overcoming the leachability problem and repeatability with a relative standard deviation of 1.8% of the TB thin film sensor have been obtained by the strategy of immobilization of the mediator in the sol-gel matrix. [source]

Generalized-onset seizures with secondary focal evolution

EPILEPSIA, Issue 7 2009
Randy Williamson
Summary The international seizure classification recognizes that partial-onset seizures can become secondarily generalized, but generalized-onset seizures are expected to remain generalized. We report six patients who had recorded seizures with generalized onset, but subsequent evolution into a focal discharge. The clinical seizure onset was generalized absence or myoclonic, and the most common subsequent clinical pattern was prolonged behavioral arrest with mild automatisms, and then postictal confusion. The ictal discharge started with generalized spike-and-wave activity and then acquired a focal predominance. Interictal epileptiform activity was generalized. There were no focal magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities. Four patients were misdiagnosed with complex partial seizures. All patients were initially refractory, but three became seizure-free and three improved after treatment with antiepileptic medications appropriate for absence or myoclonic seizures. Generalized-onset seizures that acquire focal features are easily misdiagnosed as complex partial. These seizures have a more favorable response to medications effective against generalized absence and myoclonic seizures. [source]

Severe Epilepsy in X-Linked Creatine Transporter Defect (CRTR-D)

EPILEPSIA, Issue 6 2007
Maria Margherita Mancardi
Disorders of creatine synthesis or its transporter resulting in neurological impairment with mental retardation and epilepsy have only been recognized in recent years. To date, the epileptic disorder observed in creatine transporter deficiency (CRTR-D) has been described as a mild phenotype with infrequent seizures and favorable response to common antiepileptic drugs. We report on a 5 year-old boy with known speech delay who presented with severe and refractory epilepsy. After extensive investigations, metabolite analysis and brain 1H-MRS suggested CRTR-D, which was confirmed by the detection of a known pathogenic mutation in the SLC6A8 gene (c.1631C>T; p.Pro544Leu). [source]

Favorable Response to Analgesics Does Not Predict a Benign Etiology of Headache

Surgical treatment of migraine headaches.

HEADACHE, Issue 3 2003
B Guyuron
Plast Reconstr Surg. 2002 Jun;109(7):2183-2189 This prospective study was conducted to investigate the role of removal of corrugator supercilii muscles, transection of the zygomaticotemporal branch of the trigeminal nerve, and temple soft-tissue repositioning in the treatment of migraine headaches. Using the criteria set forth by the International Headache Society, the research team's neurologist evaluated patients with moderate to severe migraine headaches, to confirm the diagnosis. Subsequently, the patients completed a comprehensive migraine headaches questionnaire and the team's plastic surgeon injected 25 units of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) into each corrugator supercilii muscle. The patients were asked to maintain an accurate diary of their migraine headaches and to complete a monthly questionnaire documenting pertinent information related to their headaches. Patients in whom the injection of Botox resulted in complete elimination of the migraine headaches then underwent resection of the corrugator supercilii muscles. Those who experienced only significant improvement underwent transection of the zygomaticotemporal branch of the trigeminal nerve with repositioning of the temple soft tissues, in addition to removal of the corrugator supercilii muscles. Once again, patients kept a detailed postoperative record of their headaches. Of the 29 patients included in the study, 24 were women and five were men, with an average age of 44.9 years (range, 24 to 63 years). Twenty-four of 29 patients (82.8 percent, p < 0.001) reported a positive response to the injection of Botox, 16 (55.2 percent, p < 0.001) observed complete elimination, eight (27.6 percent, p < 0.04) experienced significant improvement (at least 50 percent reduction in intensity or severity), and five (17.2 percent, not significant) did not notice a change in their migraine headaches. Twenty-two of the 24 patients who had a favorable response to the injection of Botox underwent surgery, and 21 (95.5 percent, p < 0.001) observed a postoperative improvement. Ten patients (45.5 percent, p < 0.01) reported elimination of migraine headaches and 11 patients (50.0 percent, p < 0.004) noted a considerable improvement. For the entire surgical group, the average intensity of the migraine headaches reduced from 8.9 to 4.1 on an analogue scale of 1 to 10, and the frequency of migraine headaches changed from an average of 5.2 per month to an average of 0.8 per month. For the group who only experienced an improvement, the intensity fell from 9.0 to 7.5 and the frequency was reduced from 5.6 to 1.0 per month. Only one patient (4.5 percent, not significant) did not notice any change. The follow-up ranged from 222 to 494 days, the average being 347 days. In conclusion, this study confirms the value of surgical treatment of migraine headaches, inasmuch as 21 of 22 patients benefited significantly from the surgery. It is also evident that injection of Botox is an extremely reliable predictor of surgical outcome. Comment: Many small placebo-controlled studies and much anecdotal literature suggests that botulinum toxin may be effective in prevention of migraine, perhaps to the same extent as conventional prophylactic treatment. Larger, randomized clinical trials are underway to resolve this issue. In the meantime, those who believe in the effectiveness of botulinum toxin prophylaxis argue about how it works, that is whether its antinociceptive properties are due to peripheral effects, central or presynaptic effects, or both. Dr. Guyuron's group favors the idea that botulinum toxin interrupts a reflex arc between the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral musculature, and that after establishing efficacy by low dose botulinum injection in the corrugator supercilii muscles, surgical resection of these muscles results in prolonged and effective prophylaxis. The idea is radical but intriguing and should not be dismissed out of hand. However, a trial is necessary in which both the botulinum toxin injections are blinded with vehicle, and the study of the surgery involves a sham surgery control group with extended long-term follow-up, before these forms of prophylaxis can be recommended to patients. SJT [source]

Frequent promoter hypermethylation and low expression of the MGMT gene in oligodendroglial tumors

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 3 2005
Maria Möllemann
Abstract Allelic losses on the chromosome arms 1p and 19q have been associated with favorable response to chemotherapy and good prognosis in anaplastic oligodendroglioma patients, but the molecular mechanisms responsible for this relationship are as yet unknown. The DNA repair enzyme O6 -methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) may cause resistance to DNA-alkylating drugs commonly used in the treatment of anaplastic oligodendrogliomas and other malignant gliomas. We report on the analysis of 52 oligodendroglial tumors for MGMT promoter methylation, as well as mRNA and protein expression. Using sequencing of sodium bisulfite-modified DNA, we determined the methylation status of 25 CpG sites within the MGMT promoter. In 46 of 52 tumors (88%), we detected MGMT promoter hypermethylation as defined by methylation of more than 50% of the sequenced CpG sites. Real-time reverse transcription-PCR showed reduced MGMT mRNA levels relative to non-neoplastic brain tissue in the majority of tumors with hypermethylation. Similarly, immunohistochemical analysis showed either no or only small fractions of MGMT positive tumor cells. MGMT promoter hypermethylation was significantly more frequent and the percentage of methylated CpG sites in the investigated MGMT promoter fragment was significantly higher in tumors with loss of heterozygosity on chromosome arms 1p and 19q as compared to tumors without allelic losses on these chromosomes arms. Taken together, our data suggest that MGMT hypermethylation and low or absent expression are frequent in oligodendroglial tumors and likely contribute to the chemosensitivity of these tumors. [source]

Paraneoplastic pemphigus in association with B-cell lymphocytic leukemia and hepatitis C: favorable response to intravenous immunoglobulins and prednisolone

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 7 2007
Mousumee Nanda MD
No abstract is available for this article. [source]

Current management of adult idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in practice: a cohort study of 201 patients from a single center,

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LABORATORY HEMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2004
J. Zimmer
Summary To define usefulness and response to therapy and outcome in adults with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in clinical practice. We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 201 consecutive patients with ITP, diagnosed between 1985 and 1994. In particular, we analyzed the therapies used, their response rates, prognostic indicators of response and outcome. In 62 patients, with minor bleeding episodes and a mean (±SD) platelet count of 88 ± 23 × 109/l, no treatment was used and chronic ITP was diagnosed in 59%. A total of 139 patients, with bleeding episodes in 71.2% cases and a mean platelet count of 20 ± 13 × 109/l, received at least one treatment. Three patients died (1.5% of the series). Corticosteroids were used in 118 patients, with an initial response rate of 82.2% and a long-term complete response (CR) of only 22.9%. Intravenous immunoglobulin was used in 26 patients, with an initial transient response in more than 60%. A splenectomy was performed in 55 patients, with an initial response rate of 92.5% and a long-term CR in 60%. Young age and prior response to corticosteroids were significant predictors of a durable response to splenectomy. Danazol was given in 37 patients, with a favorable response in 73% of cases. Our results illustrate the guidelines of the American Society of Hematology. Patients with moderate thrombocytopenia do not require treatment. In severe cases, splenectomy is the only treatment giving durable cures in a significant proportion of patients. Despite frequent chronicity, ITP is life-threatening only in a minor subset of patients. [source]

How To Choose a Capital Structure: Navigating the Debt-Equity Decision

JOURNAL OF APPLIED CORPORATE FINANCE, Issue 1 2005
Anil Shivdasani
In corporate offices as well as the classroom, there continues to be significant debate about the costs and benefits of debt financing. There is also considerable variation in corporate credit ratings, even among companies as large and successful as those that make up the S&P 500. Many companies have been reassessing how they manage their balance sheet and their rating agency relationships; and with the market's generally favorable response to recapitalizations and dividend increases, such financing issues are likely to receive even more attention. Underlying the diversity of corporate credit ratings is widespread disagreement about the "right" credit rating,a matter that is complicated by the fact that the cost of debt varies widely among companies with the same rating. Although credit ratings are clearly tied to measures of indebtedness such as leverage and coverage ratios, the most important factor in most industries is a company's size. For many mid-sized companies, an investment-grade rating can be attained only by making a large, equity-financed acquisition,or by making minimal use of debt. In this sense, the corporate choice of credit rating can be as much a strategic issue as a financial decision. Maintaining the right amount of financial fl exibility is a key consideration when determining the right credit rating for a given company (although what management views as value-preserving flexibility may be viewed by the market as value-reducing financial "slack"). A BBB rating will accommodate considerably more leverage (30,60%) in companies with fairly stable cash flows and limited investment requirements than in more cyclical or growth-oriented companies (10,20%). When contemplating taking on more leverage, companies should examine all major operating risks and view their capital structure in the context of an enterprisewide risk management framework. [source]

Predictors for squamous re-epithelialization of Barrett's esophagus after endoscopic biopsy

JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 6 2007
Yuji Amano
Abstract Background and Aim:, Acid suppressive therapy has been reported to regress Barrett's esophagus. However, it is still controversial as to whether all Barrett's esophagus patients respond to this therapy. The factors that might facilitate newly developed squamous re-epithelialization after biopsy excision of Barrett's mucosa were evaluated to identity individuals who may favorably respond to the regression therapy. Methods:, Two hundred and forty-seven biopsy sites from 185 patients with Barrett's esophagus were examined by endoscopy to investigate possible squamous re-epithelialization of Barrett's mucosa after endoscopic biopsy. Before endoscopic examination, all participants were requested to answer questionnaires concerning sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits and drugs usage. The mucin phenotype, Cdx2 expression, cyclooxygenase-2 expression, cellular proliferation and apoptosis of Barrett's mucosa were immunohistochemically investigated in the biopsy samples taken from Barrett's esophagus. The influence of these factors on the newly developed squamous re-epithelialization of Barrett's mucosa after endoscopic biopsy excision was evaluated. Results:, By multivariate analysis, the independent factors that favored squamous re-epithelialization were the gastric mucin predominant phenotype of Barrett's mucosa and the absence of Cdx2 protein expression. In Barrett's mucosa with the gastric predominant mucin phenotype, proton pump inhibitor administration, the absence of reflux esophagitis and a low proliferating cell nuclear antigen index were found to be independent predictors for squamous re-epithelialization. Conclusions:, The absence of the intestinal predominant mucin phenotype was a positive predictor for newly developed squamous re-epithelialization at the site of biopsy of Barrett's mucosa. Only Barrett's esophagus with the gastric predominant mucin phenotype may predict a favorable response to acid suppressive therapy. [source]

Hepatitis C virus infection and interferon therapy in patients with Down syndrome

PEDIATRICS INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2008
Yoko Miyoshi
Abstract Background: The clinical features of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated liver diseases, or the efficacy of interferon (IFN) therapy in children with Down syndrome (DS) remain to be elucidated. The purpose of the present paper was to survey the features of liver diseases in this subset of children and evaluate the efficacy of IFN treatment in those patients. Methods: A questionnaire was sent to 41 members of the Japan Society of Pediatric Hepatology. Ten of them reported on 11 patients with DS who had concomitant chronic HCV infection, providing information on liver disease and the response to IFN treatment. Results: Interferon therapy of 24 weeks duration using natural IFN-, was instituted in six of the 11 patients with DS, but none of the six patients cleared HCV-RNA from their serum. Among 12 age- and sex-matched control children who were treated with IFN using the same regimen against chronic HCV infection, half of them had a favorable response to IFN therapy with a sustained clearance of HCV-RNA from their serum. The major baseline features including alanine aminotransferase levels, HCV genotype and viral load were not apparently different between the six patients with DS and the 12 controls. Conclusions: IFN therapy for HCV infection in patients with DS may be unfavorable as compared with non-DS children. [source]

Maxillomandibular Advancement for Persistent Obstructive Sleep Apnea After Phase I Surgery in Patients Without Maxillomandibular Deficiency

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 10 2000
Kasey K. Li DDS
Abstract Objective To assess the outcomes of maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) for the treatment of persistent obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) after phase I reconstruction in patients who do not have maxillomandibular deficiency. Methods From January 1997 to September 1998, 25 patients previously treated with phase I reconstruction (uvulopalatoplasty, genioglossus advancement, and/or hyoid suspension) who did not have maxillary and mandibular deficiencies underwent MMA for persistent OSA. Variables examined include age, sex, body mass index (BMI), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT), and cephalometric data. In addition, a minimum of 6 months after surgery, questionnaires containing a 10-cm visual analogue scale (0 = no change, 10 = drastic change) were mailed to the patients. The questionnaire subjectively assessed the patient's perception of the facial appearance after surgery, whether there was pain or discomfort of the temporomandibular joint, the overall satisfaction with the treatment outcomes, and whether the patient would recommend the operation to other patients. Results Nineteen (76%) questionnaires were completed and returned by 15 men and 4 women. The mean age was 45.3 ± 6.6 years and the mean BMI was 33.1 ± 7.1 kg/m2. The mean RDI improved from 63.6 ± 20.8 to 8.1 ± 5.9 events per hour, and the mean LSAT improved from 73.3 ± 13.2% to 88.1 ± 4.1%. One patient was defined as an incomplete responder (RDI >20). One patient reported transient pain and discomfort of the temporomandibular joint. Although all of the patients felt that there were changes in their facial appearance after surgery, 18 of the 19 patients gave either a neutral or a favorable response to their facial esthetic results. All of these patients were satisfied with the overall outcomes and would recommend the treatment to others. Conclusion MMA is a highly effective treatment for persistent OSA after phase I surgery in patients who otherwise do not have maxillomandibular deficiency. The patient satisfaction is extremely high. Furthermore, previous concerns of unfavorable postoperative facial esthetics and temporomandibular joint dysfunction do not appear to be significant. [source]

Magnetic resonance imaging profiles predict clinical response to early reperfusion: The diffusion and perfusion imaging evaluation for understanding stroke evolution (DEFUSE) study

ANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 5 2006
Gregory W. Albers MD
Objective To determine whether prespecified baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) profiles can identify stroke patients who have a robust clinical response after early reperfusion when treated 3 to 6 hours after symptom onset. Methods We conducted a prospective, multicenter study of 74 consecutive stroke patients admitted to academic stroke centers in North America and Europe. An MRI scan was obtained immediately before and 3 to 6 hours after treatment with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator 3 to 6 hours after symptom onset. Baseline MRI profiles were used to categorize patients into subgroups, and clinical responses were compared based on whether early reperfusion was achieved. Results Early reperfusion was associated with significantly increased odds of achieving a favorable clinical response in patients with a perfusion/diffusion mismatch (odds ratio, 5.4; p = 0.039) and an even more favorable response in patients with the Target Mismatch profile (odds ratio, 8.7; p = 0.011). Patients with the No Mismatch profile did not appear to benefit from early reperfusion. Early reperfusion was associated with fatal intracranial hemorrhage in patients with the Malignant profile. Interpretation For stroke patients treated 3 to 6 hours after onset, baseline MRI findings can identify subgroups that are likely to benefit from reperfusion therapies and can potentially identify subgroups that are unlikely to benefit or may be harmed. Ann Neurol 2006 [source]

EGFR mutation testing in NSCLC: Patterns of care and outcomes in Western Australia

ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY, Issue 1 2009
Suzanne WEBB
Abstract Aims: This study evaluated the EGFR mutation status, administration of gefitinib or erlotinib and outcomes of patients assessed for EGFR mutations since the commencement of testing in Western Australia. Methods: A retrospective study identified patients with NSCLC who undergone EGFR mutation testing in the Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal Perth Hospital, Western Australia from March 2005 until May 2007. Patient characteristics, cancer history, treatment, outcomes and survival were collected from the medical records and pathology reports. Results: Tumor samples from 64 patients were sequenced for mutations in exons 18,21 EGFR and, of these, 53 patients with NSCLC were included in the analysis. The mean age at diagnosis was 61 years (range 19,80) and most of the tumor samples tested were from female patients (76%). Overall 36% of patients tested were mutation-positive with 95% of mutations occurring in exons 19 or 21. A total of 63% of mutation-positive and 18% of mutation-negative patients were treated with gefitinib or erlotinib. Of these, 83% of patients whose tumors had an EGFR mutation had a favorable response following treatment, compared to 17% of mutation-negative patients. The duration of treatment was longer in mutation-positive patients (mean 30 weeks vs 9 weeks). Conclusion: EGFR mutation testing is not routinely performed in NSCLC in Western Australia. Referral for testing is at the discretion of the treating physician, accounting for the high proportion of women and adenocarcinoma histology. Selection of mutation-positive tumors for treatment with gefitinib or erlotinib is associated with good responses to treatment. This study supports the use of gefitinib or erlotinib in routine clinical practice in patients with NSCLC carrying an EGFR mutation. [source]

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy in children: characterized by subacute, predominantly motor dominant polyeuropathy with a favorable response to the treatment

ACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2010
H. Y. Jo
Jo HY, Park M-G, Kim D-S, Nam S-O, Park K-H. Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy in children: characterized by subacute, predominantly motor dominant polyeuropathy with a favorable response to the treatment. Acta Neurol Scand: 2010: 121: 342,347. © 2009 The Authors Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Munksgaard. Objectives,,, Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculopathy (CIDP) is less well-studied in children than in adults, probably due to its relative rarity. This study was performed in order to characterize the clinical features of CIDP in children. Materials and methods,,, Twenty-eight patients with CIDP who were followed up for more than 1 year were included, and were divided into a child (n = 7, age <16) and an adult group (n = 21, age ,16). Then, we have assessed the initial progression pattern, clinical course, and serial nerve conduction findings in each patient. Finally, differential features in child and adult group were analyzed. Results,,, Distinguishing features in the child group include subacute progression within less than 2 months, predominant motor system involvement in lower extremities, and marked improvement in response to immune modulating therapy. Our study also suggested that serial nerve conduction study may be useful in assessing the effectiveness of the treatment in children. Conclusions,,, Our study showed that children with CIDP have some distinguishing features from adults in terms of clinical course and response to treatment. [source]

Adenosine triphosphate-based chemotherapy response assay (ATP-CRA)-guided platinum-based 2-drug chemotherapy for unresectable nonsmall-cell lung cancer,

CANCER, Issue 9 2007
Yong Wha Moon MD
Abstract BACKGROUND. The study investigated correlations between adenosine triphosphate / chemotherapy response assay (ATP-CRA) and clinical outcomes after ATP-CRA-guided platinum-based chemotherapy for unresectable nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS. The authors performed an in vitro chemosensitivity test, ATP-CRA, to evaluate the chemosensitivities of anticancer drugs such as cisplatin, carboplatin, paclitaxel, docetaxel, gemcitabine, and vinorelbine for chemonaive, unresectable NSCLC. The cell death rate was determined by measuring the intracellular ATP levels of drug-exposed cells compared with untreated controls. A sensitive drug was defined as a drug producing 30% or more reduction in ATP compared with untreated controls. Assay-guided platinum-based 2-drug chemotherapy was given to patients with pathologically confirmed NSCLC. RESULTS. Thirty-four patients were enrolled. Thirty tumor specimens were obtained by bronchoscopic biopsies and 4 obtained surgically. The median age was 61 years and 27 patients had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0,1. The response rate was 43.8%. At a median follow-up period of 16.9 months, the median progression-free and overall survivals were 3.6 and 11.2 months, respectively. Patients were dichotomized into the platinum-sensitive (S; 20 patients) and resistant (R; 14 patients) groups. The positive/negative predictive values were 61.1% and 78.6% with a predictive accuracy of 68.8%. Although without significant differences in pretreatment parameters, the S-group showed better clinical response (P = .036), longer progression-free survival (P = .060), and longer overall survival (P = .025). CONCLUSIONS. Despite using bronchoscopic biopsied specimens, ATP-CRA and clinical outcomes correlated well after assay-guided platinum-based 2-drug chemotherapy for unresectable NSCLC. There was a favorable response and survival in the platinum-sensitive vs resistant groups. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society. [source]

Curvularia,favorable response to oral itraconazole therapy in two patients with locally invasive phaeohyphomycosis

CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTION, Issue 12 2003
A. SafdarArticle first published online: 12 DEC 200
Curvularia species are ubiquitous and occasionally lead to infections in humans. In immunosuppressed patients, infections are often serious, and systemic dissemination is not uncommon. The optimal antifungal therapy is unclear. I here present two cases, a healthy man with locally invasive, mulicentric paranasal fungal sinusitis, and a case of progressive verrucal distal onychomycosis that developed while the patient was undergoing accelerated chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Both patients showed excellent responses to treatment with itraconazole suspension. Oral itraconazole may provide a safe and effective alternative for patients with locally invasive non-disseminated mycoses due to Curvularia species. [source]

A Multicenter, 47-Month Study of Safety and Efficacy of Calcium Hydroxylapatite for Soft Tissue Augmentation of Nasolabial Folds and Other Areas of the Face

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2007
NEIL S. SADICK MD
OBJECTIVES Each soft tissue filler product has its own unique profile in terms of adverse events. In this large-scale study, we investigated the safety profile of Radiesse, an injectable calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) implant, in treatment of nasolabial folds and other areas of the face. We also investigated the efficacy in a subset of the larger patient group. METHODS After obtaining informed consent from the subjects, researchers injected CaHA at two treatment centers into 113 patients (100 women and 13 men, ranging in age from 26 to 78 years) for a variety of facial aesthetic applications over a period of 47 months. Seventy-five patients had a single injection session; 38 had multiple sessions. Most patients (102) received 1.0 mL of CaHA per session; 12 received 2.0 mL per session. Typically, CaHA was administered with a 27-gauge 0.5- or 1 1/4-in. needle. RESULTS Safety. Of 113 patients, only 7 reported minor adverse events that were short-term and resolved within 1 month: transient ecchymosis (3), nongranulatomous submucosal nodules of the lip (2), and inflammation and edema (2). Efficacy. Efficacy ratings were performed for a subset of patients (n=41). On a scale of 1 to 5 (1=unsatisfactory; 5=excellent), the mean patient evaluation score for look and feel of the implant was 4.6; the mean physician scores for the look and feel of the implant were 4.5 and 4.6, respectively. During the 6-month follow-up visit, patients' mean ratings of the look and feel of the implant were 4.8 and 4.9, respectively. The physician's mean ratings for the look and feel of the implant were 4.5 and 4.9, respectively. CONCLUSIONS In our study, CaHA performed well, with a favorable safety profile, high patient satisfaction (90% of patients reported very good or excellent results), and good durability. We are especially pleased with the low incidence of adverse events coupled with the favorable responses from the patients themselves due to longevity of correction. [source]

Influence of Self-Affirmation on Responses to Gain- Versus Loss-Framed Antismoking Messages

HUMAN COMMUNICATION RESEARCH, Issue 4 2010
Xiaoquan Zhao
Self-affirmation has been shown to reduce biased processing of threatening health messages. In this study, the impact of self-affirmation on college smokers' reactions to gain- versus loss-framed antismoking public service announcements (PSAs) was examined. A consistent pattern of interaction was observed wherein self-affirmation produced more favorable responses to loss-framed PSAs and more unfavorable responses to gain-framed PSAs. Self-affirmation also reduced smoking intention in the loss frame condition and increased antismoking self-efficacy across framing conditions. These findings are discussed in light of previous research linking self-affirmation to increased message scrutiny. L'influence de l'affirmation de soi sur les réactions aux messages anti-tabac cadrés autour du gain ou de la perte Xiaoquan Zhao & Xiaoli Nan Il a été démontré que l'affirmation de soi réduit le traitement biaisé des messages menaçants concernant la santé. Dans cette étude, l'impact de l'affirmation de soi sur les réactions des étudiants universitaires fumeurs face à des messages d'intérêt public anti-tabac cadrés autour du gain ou de la perte a été examiné. Une tendance régulière d'interaction a été observée, selon laquelle l'affirmation de soi produisait des réactions plus favorables aux messages cadrés autour de la perte et des réactions plus défavorables aux messages cadrés autour du gain. L'affirmation de soi a également réduit l'intention de fumer dans les conditions de cadrage autour de la perte et a augmenté l'efficacité anti-tabac dans toutes les conditions de cadrage. Ces résultats sont commentés à la lumière de la recherche antérieure observant un lien entre l'affirmation de soi et une augmentation de l'examen attentif des messages. Der Einfluss von Selbstbestätigung auf die Reaktionen zu gewinn- vs. verlustgerahmten Anti-Raucher-Botschaften Xiaoquan Zhao & Xiaoli Nan Bislang konnte gezeigt werden, dass Selbstbestätigung eine voreingenommene Verarbeitung von bedrohlichen Gesundheitsbotschaften vermindert. In dieser Studie untersuchten wir den Einfluss von Selbstbestätigung auf die Reaktionen auf gewinn- vs. verlustgerahmte Anti-Raucher-Public Service Botschaften an einer Population von Universitätsstudierenden. Es zeigte sich ein konsistentes Interaktionsmuster in der Form, dass Selbstbestätigung zu stärker befürwortenden Reaktionen auf verlustgerahmte Botschaften führte und zu stärker ablehnenden Reaktionen auf gewinngerahmte Botschaften. Selbstbestätigung verminderte die Rauchintention in der verlustgerahmten Kondition und erhöhte die Anti-Rauchen-Selbstwirksamkeit für beide Frames. Diese Ergebnisse werden mit Blick auf bestehende Forschung zu Selbstbestätigung und erhöhter Botschaftswahrnehmung diskutiert. La Influencia de la Auto-Afirmación en las Respuestas a los Encuadres de Ganancia Versus de Pérdida de los Mensajes Anti-Tabaco Xiaoquan Zhao & Xiaoli Nan Department of Communication, George Mason University Resumen Se ha demostrado que la auto-afirmación reduce el procesamiento tendencioso de los mensajes de salud amenazantes. En este estudio, el impacto de la auto-afirmación en las reacciones de los estudiantes universitarios fumadores a los encuadres de ganancia- versus de pérdida de los anuncios de servicios públicos (PSA) anti-tabaco AQ1 fueron examinados. Una pauta consistente de interacción fue observada donde la auto-afirmación produjo respuestas más favorables a los PSA de encuadres de pérdida y respuestas más desfavorables a los encuadres de ganancia de los PSA. La auto-afirmación redujo también la intención de fumar en la condición de encuadre de pérdida e incrementó la auto-eficacia anti-tabaco a través de las condiciones de encuadre. Los hallazgos son discutidos a la luz de la investigación previa conectando a la auto-afirmación con el incremento del escrutinio del mensaje. [source]

Babesiosis Caused by a Large Babesia Species in 7 Immunocompromised Dogs

JOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2010
L.E. Sikorski
Background: A large unnamed Babesia species was detected in a dog with lymphoma. It was unknown if this was an underrecognized pathogen. Objective: Report the historical and clinicopathologic findings in 7 dogs with babesiosis caused by a large unnamed Babesia species characterize the 18S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) genes. Animals: Seven immunocompromised dogs from which the Babesia was isolated. Methods: Retrospective case review. Cases were identified by a diagnostic laboratory, the attending clinicians were contacted and the medical records were reviewed. The Babesia sp. 18S rRNA genes were amplified and sequenced. Results: Six of 7 dogs had been splenectomized; the remaining dog was receiving oncolytic drugs. Lethargy, anorexia, fever, and pigmenturia were reported in 6/7, 6/7, 4/7, and 3/7 dogs. Laboratory findings included mild anemia (7/7) and severe thrombocytopenia (6/7). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays used to detect Babesia sensu stricto species were all positive, but specific PCR assays for Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni were negative in all dogs. The 18S rRNA gene sequences were determined to be identical to a large unnamed Babesia sp. previously isolated. Cross-reactive antibodies against other Babesia spp. were not always detectable. Five dogs were treated with imidocarb dipropionate and 1 dog with atovaquone/azithromycin; some favorable responses were noted. The remaining dog was untreated and remained a clinically stable carrier. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Dogs with pigmenturia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia should be tested for Babesia sp. by PCR. Serology is not sufficient for diagnosis of this Babesia sp. Asplenia, chemotherapy, or both might represent risk factors for persistent infection, illness, or both. [source]