Mortality in patients with Cushing's disease more than 10 years after remission: a multicentre, multinational, retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

No agreement has been reached on the long-term survival prospects for patients with Cushing's disease. We studied life expectancy in patients who had received curative treatment and whose hypercortisolism remained in remission for more than 10 years, and identified factors determining their survival.

METHODS

We did a multicentre, multinational, retrospective cohort study using individual case records from specialist referral centres in the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. Inclusion criteria for participants, who had all been in studies reported previously in peer-reviewed publications, were diagnosis and treatment of Cushing's disease, being cured of hypercortisolism for a minimum of 10 years at study entry, and continuing to be cured with no relapses until the database was frozen or death. We identified the number and type of treatments used to achieve cure, and used mortality as our primary endpoint. We compared mortality rates between patients with Cushing's disease and the general population, and expressed them as standardised mortality ratios (SMRs). We analysed survival data with multivariate analysis (Cox regression) with no corrections for multiple testing.

FINDINGS

The census dates on which the data were frozen ranged from Dec 31, 2009, to Dec 1, 2014. We obtained data for 320 patients with 3790 person-years of follow-up from 10 years after cure (female:male ratio of 3:1). The median patient follow-up was 11·8 years (IQR 17-26) from study entry and did not differ between countries. There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics, duration of follow-up, comorbidities, treatment number, or type of treatment between women and men, so we pooled data from both sexes for survival analysis. 51 (16%) of the cohort died during follow-up from study entry (10 years after cure). Median survival from study entry was similar for women (31 years; IQR 19-38) and men (28 years; 24-42), and about 40 years (IQR 30-48) from remission. The overall SMR for all-cause mortality was 1·61 (95% CI 1·23-2·12; p=0·0001). The SMR for circulatory disease was increased at 2·72 (1·88-3·95; p<0·0001), but deaths from cancer were not higher than expected (0·79, 0·41-1·51). Presence of diabetes, but not hypertension, was an independent risk factor for mortality (hazard ratio 2·82, 95% CI 1·29-6·17; p=0·0095). We noted a step-wise reduction in survival with increasing number of treatments. Patients cured by pituitary surgery alone had long-term survival similar to that of the general population (SMR 0·95, 95% CI 0·58-1·55) compared with those who were not (2·53, 1·82-3·53; p<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

Patients with Cushing's disease who have been in remission for more than 10 years are at increased risk of overall mortality compared with the general population, particularly from circulatory disease. However, median survival from cure is excellent at about 40 years of remission. Treatment complexity and an increased number of treatments, reflecting disease that is more difficult to control, appears to negatively affect survival. Pituitary surgery alone is the preferred treatment to secure an optimum outcome, and should be done in a centre of surgical excellence.

FUNDING

None.

Remaining cancer cells within the fibrosis after neo-adjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer

AIM

To analyse the incidence and distribution of remaining cancer cells within the fibrosis induced by preoperative chemo-radiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer.

METHODS

The histopathological specimens from 46 patients operated on with extensive surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer after CRT were examined. The extension of fibrosis in relation to the mesorectal fascia (MRF) and the distribution of cancer cells within the fibrosis was examined using routine haematoxylin-eosin staining. In addition, immunohistochemical staining with CK20 was done to examine if cancer cells were missed by routine pathological work up.

RESULTS

All specimens showed CRT induced fibrosis. Two specimens showed complete response without viable cancer cells (ypT0). The fibrosis was limited inside the MRF in three cases, adherent to or involved the MRF in ten cases and in 33 cases the fibrosis was obvious outside as well as inside the fascia. Twenty-one cases showed fibrosis on the surgical resection margin, and in 9 of these cancer cells were found on the surgical margin (R1, R2-resection). 37 patients had R0 resections and among those 24 showed fibrosis beyond the MFR and 13 had scattered cancer cells in the fibrosis along or outside the MRF.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of remaining cancer cells within the fibrosis was high in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with CRT. Frequently cancer cells were detected near the border of the fibrosis. A complete resection of the fibrosis is therefore recommended to achieve an R0 resection after neo-adjuvant treatment.

Problems in Interpretation of the short ACTH test: an update and historical notes

ACTH stimulation test has been used for many years. Some important questions remain unsettled. These are reviewed and discussed in detail. Interpretation of a short ACTH test rests on the fact that a close correlation exists between the responses in plasma cortisol concentrations after administration of ACTH and during insulin induced hypoglycaemia which previously was the standard test. It is generally assumed that the plasma cortisol concentration after ACTH (and insulin) mirrors the response in major stress situations (surgery and critical disease). This notion rests on few observations. Furthermore, extensive changes in protein binding of cortisol occur swiftly during stress. This complicates comparison between cortisol responses to ACTH and to critical disease. Based on published studies it is discussed whether the outcome of an ACTH test is an appropriate indicator of the need for glucocorticosteroid replacement. This issue is of particular importance when deciding if permanent glucocorticosteroid substitution is necessary or not.

Cushing's disease, pseudo-Cushing states and the dexamethasone test: a historical and critical review

The dexamethasone (DXM) test has been widely used for diagnosing Cushing's disease (CD). The purpose of this paper is to review its diagnostic merit based on calculation of data extracted from earlier publications. Studies presenting individual values for patients with CD and normal subjects were identified through PubMed searches and references in pertinent studies. Calculation of the retrieved data demonstrated huge variation in the relative suppressibility, negative suppression being common. Furthermore, in almost each study retrieved, the pre and post DXM values were closely correlated. Finally, the generally accepted view that DXM causes less suppression in Cushing's disease than in euadrenal controls appears unfounded. A central issue in the definition of so-called "pseudo-Cushing's states" is failure to suppress cortisol secretion with DXM. From analysis of the literature it appears quite possible that this does not reflect a specific endocrine deficit, but a physiological "stress" reaction. The above issues question the diagnostic value of the test, in particular in clinically and biochemically borderline cases.

Nuclear-DNA content and p53 immunostaining in oral squamous-cell carcinoma - an analysis of a consecutive 10-year material

In a retrospective analysis of 91 consecutive oral carcinomas we reviewed all patient records and weighed clinicopathological parameters against the results of image DNA cytometry and p53 immunhistochemical staining of the initial diagnostic biopsies. Eighty-seven percent of the biopsies were either aneuploid or nondiploid and there was a significant correlation between poorly differentiated tumours and aneuploidy. Sixty-nine percent of the tumours were p53 positive. DNA aberration or p53 positivity had no significant impact on prediction of survival or susceptibility to radiotherapy. In a multivariate analysis, T category had the greatest predictive value concerning survival. There was no correlation between p53 positivity and smoking.

Reduction of BDNF expression in Fmr1 knockout mice worsens cognitive deficits but improves hyperactivity and sensorimotor deficits

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a common cause of inherited intellectual disability and a well-characterized form of autism spectrum disorder. As brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is implicated in the pathophysiology of FXS we examined the effects of reduced BDNF expression on the behavioral phenotype of an animal model of FXS, Fmr1 knockout (KO) mice, crossed with mice carrying a deletion of one copy of the Bdnf gene (Bdnf(+/-)). Fmr1 KO mice showed age-dependent alterations in hippocampal BDNF expression that declined after the age of 4 months compared to wild-type controls. Mild deficits in water maze learning in Bdnf(+/-) and Fmr1 KO mice were exaggerated and contextual fear learning significantly impaired in double transgenics. Reduced BDNF expression did not alter basal nociceptive responses or central hypersensitivity in Fmr1 KO mice. Paradoxically, the locomotor hyperactivity and deficits in sensorimotor learning and startle responses characteristic of Fmr1 KO mice were ameliorated by reducing BNDF, suggesting changes in simultaneously and in parallel working hippocampus-dependent and striatum-dependent systems. Furthermore, the obesity normally seen in Bdnf(+/-) mice was eliminated by the absence of fragile X mental retardation protein 1 (FMRP). Reduced BDNF decreased the survival of newborn cells in the ventral part of the hippocampus both in the presence and absence of FMRP. Since a short neurite phenotype characteristic of newborn cells lacking FMRP was not found in cells derived from double mutant mice, changes in neuronal maturation likely contributed to the behavioral phenotype. Our results show that the absence of FMRP modifies the diverse effects of BDNF on the FXS phenotype.

Long-term ECMO treatment in Jehovah’s Witness patient without transfusions

A previously healthy 60-year-old male presented with fever, general pain and a C-reactive protein (CRP) of 160 mg/L. He was prescribed doxycycline. In the emergency room three days later, he was intubated and had a saturation of 70% on 100% oxygen. The chest X-ray showed bilateral lobar pneumonia. Streptococcus pneumonia was later verified.

As a Jehovah’s Witness, he had refused blood transfusions, but accepted albumin. Two days after admission, veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) was started and the patient was then transported on ECMO to Stockholm. After two days, echocardiography showed right cardiac failure and the patient had to be converted to veno-arterial ECMO (VV-A ECMO) by cannulation of the left femoral artery. The haemoglobin decreased from 10.0 to 6.0 g/dL. Iron, folic acid, and erythropoietin were administered to stimulate erythropoesis. Romiplostim, to stimulate the production of platelets, was also started immediately. Blood samples were reduced to a minimum. The ECMO circuit was changed twice, using saline for priming, and the blood in the old circuit was then given back to the patient. The haemoglobin concentration varied between 4.5 and 6.0 g/dL during the ECMO treatment and the platelets between 80 and 140 x109/L.

After 44 days on ECMO, the patient was weaned off ECMO with 50% oxygen and nitric oxide (NO) at 20ppm in the ventilator. Four days after decannulation, he was transferred to a nearby intensive care unit.

Long-term ECMO treatment without transfusion of blood products is possible. Being a Jehovah’s Witness should not automatically be a contraindication for ECMO.

Hypothyroidism and thyroid substitution: historical aspects

The last part of the 19th century was a period of great achievements in medicine and endocrinology. The thyroid gland evolved from being considered a rudimentary structure to an organ related to specific diseases. The singular importance of iodine became acknowledged. Graves-Basedow's disease was described. Surgical treatment evolved with extraordinary speed. Theodor Kocher observed that the clinical picture in patients after total thyroidectomy was similar to the one seen in cretinism. In 1850, the first case of hypothyroidism or myxedema was described. Less than 50 years later, effective treatment was introduced. Another 50 years later, autoimmune thyroiditis was ascertained as the most frequent cause of hypothyroidism (in areas with no iodine deficiency). This paper gives a short survey of the history of hypothyroidism and its treatment.

Hyperthyroidism, exophthalmos, and goiter: historical notes on the orbitopathy

BACKGROUND

Exophthalmos associated with goiter and/or symptoms of hyperthyroidism have been known since antiquity. It was not until around 1800 that a number of studies described this disorder in more detail.

SUMMARY

For many years the nature of the disease remained unclear and it was appreciated as either a cardiac or neurological disease. There was no agreement on treatment. Surgery on the thyroid, orbit, autonomous nerve system, and pituitary has been employed. Medical treatment was introduced around World War II. Later, as a consequence of the discovery of long-acting thyroid stimulator, it became apparent that Graves-Basedow's disease was an autoimmune disease and so was the exophthalmos, though many details of the pathophysiology remain in doubt.

CONCLUSIONS

This article presents a brief review of the history of the exophthalmos associated with thyroid disease.

Frequency of HPV-associated tonsillar cancer in Sweden

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Background: Numerous studies has shown an increase of the incidence of tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) both in the USA and in Sweden. This increase in incidence is despite a decreasing prevalence in smoking, a well-known risk factor for developing tonsillar cancer. The proportion of human papillomavirus (HPV) positive tonsillar SCC has also been shown to increase. This study aims to examine the incidence of tonsillar SCC and the proportion of HPV positive tonsillar SCC between 2003–2007 in the County of Stockholm, Sweden in correlation to data from 1970–2002. Methods: All patients (n = 120) diagnosed with tonsillar SCC during 2003–2007 in the County of Stockholm were included in this study. Ninety-eight pre-treatment biopsies were available and presence of HPV DNA and HPV-16 E6 and E7 mRNA were tested by PCR and RT-PCR. Incidence data between 2003–2007 for Sweden and in the County of Stockholm was obtained from the Swedish Cancer Registry. Data reported from 1970 to 2002 was also obtained for comparison. Results: HPV DNA was present in 83/98 (85%) of the tonsillar SCC biopsies from 2003–2007. Of the 77 HPV-16 positive tumors, HPV-16 E6 and E7 mRNA were found in 98% of the analyzed cases. The proportion of HPV-positive cancers had significantly increased both from 1970 to 2007 (p < 0.0001) as well from 2000 to 2007 (p < 0.01), with 68% (95% CI, 53–81) 2000–2002; 77% (95% CI, 63–87) 2003–2005; and 93% (95% CI, 82–99) 2006–2007. The incidence rate of HPV-positive tumors almost doubled each decade between 1970–2007, in parallel with a decline of HPV-negative tumors. Conclusions: Today, almost all tonsillar SCC in the County of Stockholm is HPV positive, and the incidence of HPV-positive cancers is still increasing. The data suggest that we are dealing with an epidemic of a virus-induced carcinoma, and that soon practically all tonsillar SCC will be HPV positive; a similar situation observed in cervical cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

30 Min ACTH stimulation test as predictor of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical function. Comparison with metyrapone test

In 32 subjects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) response to metyrapone was found to correlate significantly with the adrenocortical response to exogenous ACTH. This report provides additional evidence suggesting that a 30 min exogenous ACTH stimulation test accurately predicts the integrated responsiveness of the HPA system to various stimuli.

Plasma vasopressin, cortisol, and growth hormone concentrations in relation to surgery in the suprasellar region

Posterior and anterior pituitary functions were assessed in 8 patients before, during, and after surgery for tumors in the suprasellar region. Preoperatively, all patients but one responded adequately to an osmotic stimulus with a rise in plasma vasopressin (AVP) and all but one showed adequate cortisol response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and hypoglycemia. During surgery a transient rise was seen in plasma levels of AVP (5 out of 8 patients), cortisol (7 out of 8 patients) and growth hormone (4 out of 8 patients). This response could be predicted from the preoperative stimulation tests. Postoperatively the AVP response to osmotic stimuli was impaired in 4 out of 5 patients, although urine volume had returned to normal after a transient polyuric phase. The response of plasma cortisol to ACTH was still adequate but lower than preoperatively.

Controlled clinical study on antihypertensive treatment with a diuretic and methyldopa compared with a beta-blocking agent and hydralazine

Twenty-eight previously untreated patients with essential hypertension were included in a randomized double-blind cross-over study comparing the results of treatment with the established combination of a thiazide and methyldopa (regimen A) with the combination of a beta-receptor blocker and hydralazine (regimen B). Three patients each developed intolerable side-effects on each regimen but they were all treated successfully on the alternative regimen. The remaining 22 patients obtained a significant reduction in BP at rest and during exercise on both treatments, with no significant difference between the two schedules. Heart rate was significantly reduced at rest and during exercise with regimen B, while a significant reduction was also obtained following exercise on regimen A. There was no significant difference between the two regimens as to tolerable side-effects during treatment, which were registered in about 60% of the patients on each scheme. However, 64% of the patients were treated satisfactorily without side-effects on either regimen. It is concluded that the combination of a beta-blocking agent and hydralazine is without obvious advantages compared with the combination of thiazide and methyldopa in obtaining initial BP control in patients with essential hypertension.

Craniopharyngioma: historical notes

For centuries tumors have been described which today with some confidence can be diagnosed as craniopharyngiomas. It was not until 1904 Erdheim described what he called 'hypophysial duct tumors', and which Cushing later gave the name craniopharyngioma. The first operation for this neoplasm took place in 1909. It soon became evident that the outcome of surgery was rather dismal with high mortality and morbidity rates-even after corticosteroid therapy became available around 1950. Radiotherapy was introduced and later refined as radiosurgery. This paper presents a short survey of the accumulation of knowledge of craniopharyngiomas.

Pituitary-gonadal axis: historical notes

Though it was appreciated at a very early time that removal of gonads had evident consequences, the anatomy and function of the gonads were essentially unknown in the Antiquity. It was not until around 1600 that men like Vesalius, de Graaf and Leeuwenhoek initiated rational studies on the structure and function of the gonads. The close relationship between gonads and hypothalamus/pituitary was recognized less than 100 years ago. The last pituitary hormone with gonadotroph effect was discovered a generation ago. This paper briefly describes some major points in the development of our knowledge of the pituitary-gonadal function. Considering the huge number of studies involved, this review reflects but a tiny fraction of the work laid down over millennia within this field.

Excess mortality in women with pituitary disease: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Increased mortality has been reported in patients with pituitary disease, with some studies showing higher standard mortality rates (SMR) in women than in men.

OBJECTIVE

To assess overall SMR for men and women with benign pituitary disease without excessive ATCH or GH secretion and to investigate associations between SMR and time period of diagnosis.

DESIGN

From searches in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases, and reference lists of major reviews and original articles, we included original studies providing SMR values and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for men and women separately. Thirty articles were studied in detail. Six studies were eligible for the meta-analysis of sex-specific mortality, and seven for the analysis of association between SMR and diagnosis period.

RESULTS

Individual studies (total 5412 patients) reported total SMR values (men and women together) ranging from 1.21 to 3.80. SMR varied from 0.98 to 3.36 in men and from 2.11 to 4.54 in women. Weighted SMR values were significantly higher in women (2.80; CI 2.59-3.02) than in men (2.06; CI 1.94-2 20) (P < 0.0001). SMR was negatively correlated with first year of diagnosis in individual studies (partial correlation analysis controlling for sex, P = 0.017), and approached normal in recent studies in men but not in women.

CONCLUSIONS

In our meta-analysis of patients with pituitary disease without ACTH or GH excess, SMR was significantly higher in women than in men. SMR reached normal levels in men treated in recent decades, but remained elevated in women.

Hypopituitarism and mortality in pituitary adenoma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Previous studies on hypopituitarism and mortality have concluded that insufficient pituitary function is associated with decreased survival. For several reasons the results are difficult to compare - particularly because definitions and treatment of hypopituitarism have varied and various underlying disorders have been included. The purpose was to assess the relationship between mortality and pituitary function.

PATIENTS AND DESIGN

One hundred and sixty consecutive patients (99 men and 61 women) with functionless, suprasellar pituitary adenoma. All were operated on transsphenoidally during the period 1985-1996. Additional radiotherapy was given to 29 patients. Mortality was calculated 12.4 years (median, range 8.1-19.9) after operation. Postoperative hormonal deficits were treated in most, though GH substitution was given only to a minority of patients.

RESULTS

Postoperatively 30% of the patients had normal pituitary function (normal adrenocortical, thyroid and gonadal function), 26% were panhypopituitary and 36% had partial pituitary insufficiency. Forty-one patients had died (34.7 expected) yielding a standard mortality ratio (SMR) of 1.18 (95% confidence limits (CI) 0.87-1.60). SMR was significantly increased in women (1.97, CI 1.20-3.21) but not in men (0.83, CI 0.55-1.26). SMR in patients with normal pituitary function, panhypopituitarism and partial insufficiency were not different from that in the general population. SMR in hypopituitary women was substantially higher than in men with pituitary insufficiency. Treatment with growth hormone in GH-deficient patients did not influence survival.

CONCLUSION

Pituitary surgery for nonfunctioning adenoma and subsequent pituitary insufficiency had no effect on mortality in men, but was associated with significantly increased mortality in women. Suboptimal hormonal substitution in women may play a role.

Frequent occurrence of pituitary apoplexy in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

There is agreement in the literature that pituitary apoplexy is a rare disorder. As our experience differs from this view, we analysed the incidence in patients operated on for a nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma.

PATIENTS AND DESIGN

One hundred ninety-two consecutive patients with a suprasellar, clinically inactive adenoma operated on during the period 1985-1996 were retrospectively reviewed. A diagnosis of pituitary apoplexy was made from relevant neurological symptoms together with pertinent findings at operation.

RESULTS

Pituitary apoplexy occurred in 41 patients (21%), in 23 patients within 12 days prior to the operation. The male/female ratio was 1.9. Median follow-up time was 13.7 years (range 8.9-19.9). During this period, 12 patients had died, yielding a standard mortality ratio of 1.09 (95% CI 0.62-1.92), similar to that in the patients who had not sustained pituitary apoplexy. Postoperatively, 24% of the patients had normal pituitary function, 38% were panhypopituitary and partial pituitary insufficiency was present in 38%. Subnormal GH secretion was present in virtually all patients tested. Two patients died within 60 days of surgery and in two no or incomplete data were available, although they most likely were panhypopituitary.

CONCLUSION

Most of our findings add little to what is known about pituitary apoplexy. On one point, however, they are contrary to previously presented data. We found a much higher incidence of pituitary apoplexy despite rather rigorous criteria for the diagnosis. The outcome as regards survival and endocrine function was not different from that in patients with a nonfunctioning adenoma who did not suffer pituitary apoplexy.

Growth hormone: historical notes

A brief review of important contributions to our present knowledge of growth hormone is given. In 1887 it had been noted that a pituitary tumor was present in most patients with acromegaly. Even at the beginning of the 20. Century relationship between growth disorders and the pituitary was contested. From 1908 pituitary surgery became established treatment in GH hypersecretion. In 1922 it was demonstrated that injection of pituitary extract to animals caused excessive growth and soon after the opposite: removal of the pituitary caused growth retardation. A huge number of studies on the effects of GH were subsequently reported as were trials with GH treatment. They were impeded by failure to recognize the impact of species specificity of GH. After this issue was clarified in 1957, treatment with human growth hormone proved effective. In 1985 it was realized that Creutzfeldt-Jakob's disease might be transmitted through human growth hormone. At this time recombinant GH had become available. In 1971 the structure of human GH was established. In the same period both GH releasing and inhibiting hormones were identified and an analogue of somatostatin had evolved into the first effective pharmacological treatment for acromegaly.

Radiofrequency ablation in the liver close to the bile ducts: can intraductal cooling offer protection?

BACKGROUND

One complication of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the liver is biliary duct damage. Intraductal cooling (IDC) has been proposed as a means of protection.

METHODS

In the first experiment, designed to evaluate the influence of IDC on the RFA procedure per se and on lesion formation, lesions were created in vivo in pig liver with and without IDC. The RFA needle was placed with a 1.5-cm safety margin from the bile ducts. In the second experiment, designed to evaluate the potential protective effects of IDC, lesions were created close to a bile duct with and without IDC.

RESULTS

With the safety margin, the RFA parameters and lesion size were not negatively affected by IDC. Microscopic examination revealed that IDC had a protective effect in most of the lesions created close to a bile duct.

CONCLUSIONS

The IDC procedure was feasible and had no negative effect on the RFA procedure or the lesions. However, the protective effect of IDC was not statistically significant (p = 0.12).

Prognostic value of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis in rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Despite radiotherapy and improved surgical techniques, local recurrence rates after treatment of rectal cancer still vary between 3 and 30 per cent. Tumour involvement of the circumferential resection margin (CRM) predicts a high risk of local recurrence. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows accurate description of the tumour and its spread within the mesorectum. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic impact of an involved CRM identified at preoperative MRI in patients with rectal cancer.

METHODS

Preoperative MRI was performed in 115 patients with rectal cancer between 1995 and 1999. The images were evaluated retrospectively. The shortest distance from the tumour to the CRM was measured, correlated with patient outcome and compared with histopathological findings.

RESULTS

The risk of any recurrence in patients with or without a tumour-involved margin on MRI was nine of 29 and nine of 57 respectively (P = 0.036). Overall survival at 5 years was 43 and 77 per cent (P = 0.012) respectively. Twenty-four of 30 patients who had an involved CRM on histopathology were correctly identified by MRI.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a potentially involved CRM identified by MRI had a significantly higher risk of recurrence and cancer-related death. Preoperative MRI may be of prognostic value in rectal cancer and may be used to select patients for neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy and/or more radical surgery.

Changing pattern of paediatric inflammatory bowel disease in northern Stockholm 1990-2001

BACKGROUND

An increased incidence of paediatric Crohn's disease was reported recently by our group.

AIMS

To assess the incidence and characteristics of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in northern Stockholm between 1990 and 2001.

METHODS

All records of individuals 0-15 years of age with suspected IBD in the population based catchment area of 180000 individuals were scrutinised using defined diagnostic criteria. Patient files were searched for relatives with IBD, and for concomitant autoimmune diseases.

RESULTS

A total of 152 children were diagnosed with IBD, corresponding to an overall incidence (per 100000) of IBD of 7.4. The incidence of Crohn's disease (CD) was 4.9, ulcerative colitis (UC) 2.2, and indeterminate colitis 0.2. Between 1990 and 2001, there was a marked increase in the incidence of CD while the incidence of UC was almost unchanged, leading to a net increase in the overall occurrence of IBD. There was a male dominance of CD. Fourteen per cent and 11% of patients with CD and UC, respectively, had a first or second degree relative with IBD. Eighteen per cent and 10% of patients with CD and UC, respectively, had a concomitant autoimmune disease. Ten patients with CD (10%) underwent surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of CD has increased in northern Stockholm. The current incidence is higher than that reported from other areas. Our results suggest a shift in presentation and diagnosis from UC towards CD, but also a net increase in IBD. Concomitant autoimmune disorders and family history are common in paediatric IBD.

Cryptal lymphocytic coloproctitis: a new phenotype of lymphocytic colitis?

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Lymphocytic colitis is a clinicopathological entity characterised by protracted watery diarrhoea and an increased number of intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) in the surface epithelium of the colonic mucosa. This report describes two patients with symptoms similar to those of lymphocytic colitis and an increased number of IELs, but within the cryptal epithelium.

METHODS

The numbers of IELs were assessed in colorectal biopsies from the two patients. Sections were stained immunohistochemically for CD3, CD8, CD20, and TIA1.

RESULTS

The colorectal biopsies had an abnormally high number of IELs in the epithelium of the crypts but not in the surface epithelium. The IELs in the crypts were CD3+++, CD8+, TIA1+, and CD20-.

CONCLUSIONS

The histological diagnosis in these two patients was cryptal lymphocytic coloproctitis. Patients with similar symptoms and an increased number of IELs in the surface epithelium are now filed at this department as having surface lymphocytic coloproctitis. Immunohistochemistry showed that the cryptal IELs were cytotoxic suppressor T cells. Interestingly, a case of cryptal lymphocytic colitis was recently recorded in a non-human primate dying after years of protracted chronic diarrhoea. It is possible that antigens present in the lumen of the crypts elicit a lymphocytic reaction within the cryptal cells.

Laminin-5 as a predictor of invasiveness in cancer in situ lesions of the larynx

Squamous epithelial cancer in situ (CIS) of the upper aerodigestive tract is a histopathologically well-defined condition. There is yet no reliable way to predict whether a CIS lesion will progress to invasive cancer, remain stable or regress. In the search for markers able to foretell clinical outcome, we performed immunohistochemical staining with a polyclonal antibody against recombinant gamma 2 chain of laminin-5 in 33 laryngeal CIS lesions. All six CIS lesions which progressed to invasive cancer, within a follow-up time of 5 years, were laminin-5 positive (100%), whereas only 10 out of 27 lesions which did not progress were positive (37%) (p < 0.01). Our data showed that a positive laminin-5 laryngeal CIS lesion indicates a high risk for progression to invasive cancer.

Human papilloma virus (HPV) and p53 immunostaining in advanced tonsillar carcinoma--relation to radiotherapy response and survival

BACKGROUND

Human papilloma virus (HPV), which is frequently present in tonsillar carcinoma seems to be a prognostically favourable factor for patient survival and also for low risk of relapse. Since HPV may abrogate the function of wild type p53 and hence influence radiosensitivity we attempted to analyse if HPV and p53 status in tonsillar carcinoma affected tumour response to radiotherapy (RT) and patient survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pre-treatment primary tonsillar carcinoma specimens were obtained retrospectively from 40 patients, 21 complete responders (CR) and 19 non-complete responders (non-CR) of which 38/40 were stage III and IV tumours. The paraffin-embedded biopsies were analysed for presence of HPV DNA, by general and type specific PCR, and for p53 overexpression by immunohistochemical staining with the murine Mab DO-1.

RESULTS

It was possible to analyse HPV in 34 and p53 in 39 patients. Presence of HPV DNA (HPV+) and p53 immunostaining (p53+) were not correlated with response to RT, since 8/18 CR patients and 6/16 non-CR patients were HPV+ and 11/21 CR patients and 8/18 non-CR patients were p53+. A tendency towards a survival benefit in patients with HPV+ tumours was observed and this tendency was significant for patients with stage IV HPV + tumours (p = .0431), and in particular HPV+/p53- cancers (p = .0195). A difference in survival between patients with p53+ cancer as compared to patients with p53- lesions was not demonstrated. In conclusion, although presence of HPV and p53 immunoreactivity in tonsillar carcinoma could not be related to RT response, determination of HPV and p53 status may still prove useful as predictive/prognostic markers.

Incidence and late prognosis of cushing's syndrome: a population-based study

The main purpose was to assess the incidence and late outcome of Cushing's syndrome, particularly in Cushing's disease. Information for all patients diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome during an 11-yr period in Denmark was retrieved. The incidence was 1.2-1.7/million.yr (Cushing's disease), 0.6/million.yr (adrenal adenoma) and 0.2/million.yr (adrenal carcinoma). Other types of Cushing's syndrome were rare. In 139 patients with nonmalignant disease, 11.1% had died during follow-up (median, 8.1 yr; range, 3.1-14.0), yielding a standard mortality ratio (SMR) of 3.68 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.34-5.33]. The SMR was partly attributable to an increased mortality within the first year after diagnosis. Eight patients died before treatment could be undertaken. The prognosis in patients with malignant disease was very poor. Patients in whom more than 5 yr had elapsed since initial surgery were studied separately, including a questionnaire on their perceived quality of health. In 45 patients with Cushing's disease who had been cured through transsphenoidal neurosurgery, only 1 had died (SMR, 0.31; CI, 0.01-1.72) compared with 6 of 20 patients with persistent hypercortisolism after initial neurosurgery (SMR, 5.06; CI, 1.86-11.0). In patients with adrenal adenoma, SMR was 3.95 (CI, 0.81-11.5). The perceived quality of health was significantly impaired only in patients with Cushing's disease and appeared independent of disease control or presence of hypopituitarism. It is concluded that 1) Cushing's syndrome is rare and is associated with increased mortality, in patients with no concurrent malignancy also; 2) the excess mortality was mainly observed during the first year of disease; and 3) the impaired quality of health in long-term survivors of Cushing's disease is not fully explained.

Cushing's syndrome: historical aspects

A brief overview of the most important steps leading to our present knowledge of hypercorticism is given. The adrenals were described in 1563 and the pituitary had been known since Antiquity. Until Addison's description of adrenal insufficiency in 1855 virtually nothing was known of their function. Cushing in 1912 described his famous patient with hypercorticism but assumed it to be a polyglandular disorder. For almost 40 years the etiology was disputed, though Bauer early had postulated that hypercorticism ultimately reflected adrenal hyperfunction, either primarily or secondarily. Though Krause, Schloffer, Cushing, Hirsch and others early in the 20th century had introduced pituitary surgery, it was not until 1933 that the first patient with Cushing's disease had neurosurgery performed. This therapy did not gain wide acceptance until Gidot & Thibaut and Hardy pioneered transsphenoidal surgery. Adrenal surgery was for many years the treatment of hypercorticism but prior to the availability of glucocorticosteroids substitution an extremely perilous undertaking.

Detection of viable Chlamydia pneumoniae in abdominal aortic aneurysms

OBJECTIVES

to investigate the presence of Chlamydia pneumoniae in the wall of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) and in the aortas of patients without a history of cardiovascular disease.

DESIGN

case-control study.

MATERIALS

twenty-six consecutive patients operated for AAA were compared to 17 controls.

METHODS

aorta was obtained at surgery or autopsy (controls) and prepared for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis and culture for C. pneumoniae. Throat swabs from 14/26 patients were analysed by PCR for C. pneumoniae. Blood was obtained from 24/26 patients and from 178 70-year-old males.

RESULTS

C. pneumoniae was detected in the aortic aneurysms of 20/26 patients by IHC. C. pneumoniae was cultured from 10 of the 20 IHC-positive patients. Only 1/17 controls was positive for C. pneumoniae by IHC (p=0.0001). PCR was positive for C. pneumoniae in 5/14 patients. Serological analysis by microimmunofluoresence (MIF) showed significantly more high titres of the specific antibodies to C. pneumoniae in patients than in age-matched male controls.

CONCLUSIONS

we conclude that C. pneumoniae is often present in AAAs in a viable form and that C. pneumoniae is linked to the pathogenesis of AAA.

TP53 mutations do not correlate with locoregional recurrence in stage I tongue carcinomas

BACKGROUND

The abrogation of the TP53 gene is considered to play a central role in the development of human cancers. Exons 5-8 harbor mutations most frequently, mainly of the missense type, resulting in accumulation of the p53 protein. The importance of these alterations as prognostic factors, are issues of controversy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-four patients suffering from stage I tongue carcinoma had been treated with a local surgical excision of the tumor. Seventeen patients had developed a local recurrence in the tongue or cervical (regional) metastases while 17 patients, matched for age and gender to the former group, had no recurring disease within follow-up. Protein p53 was detected through immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis using antibody CM1. Exons 5-8 of the TP53 gene were amplified through the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The presence of mutations analyzed by CDGE (Constant Denaturant Gel Electrophoresis) and detected mutations were subjected to sequencing.

RESULTS

20 out of 34 tumors (59%) showed mutated TP53, 18 tumors were IHC p53 positive, but the correlation between CDGE and IHC was only 56%. Sequencing of the gene was possible in 8 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither the presence of mutations nor immunostaining had any impact on the risk of recurrence expressed as life-table analysis of time to recurrence.

Predictive value of malignancy grading systems, DNA content, p53, and angiogenesis for stage I tongue carcinomas

AIM

To assess the clinical value of malignancy grading systems compared with nuclear DNA content, protein p53, and angiogenesis for predicting recurrence of stage I (UICC, 1987) tongue carcinomas.

METHODS

Histopathological malignancy grading according to Jakobsson and tumour front grading according to Bryne et al were performed on haematoxylin and eosin slides. DNA analysis was performed by image cytometry. Protein p53 and angiogenesis were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis using antibody CM1 and antibody against factor VIII related antigen, respectively.

RESULTS

49 patients with stage I carcinomas of the mobile tongue were included, all treated by local surgical excision alone. Eight patients (16%) suffered from local recurrence during follow up, and 13 (27%) had regional recurrence. Both Jakobsson's malignancy grading system and p53 immunoreactivity proved to be useful predictors of regional recurrence in a Cox multivariate regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Histopathological malignancy grading systems provide valuable prognostic information and can still compete with current biological markers in this respect.

Nuclear DNA content and p53 overexpression in stage I squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue compared with advanced tongue carcinomas

AIMS

To evaluate the predictive value of the nuclear DNA content (image cytometry) and p53 overexpression (immuno-histochemistry using antibody CM-1) in uniformly treated stage I carcinomas of the mobile tongue. Also, to compare stage I carcinomas with advanced tongue carcinomas (stages II-IV).

METHODS

Archival formalin fixed, paraffin wax embedded tumour specimens from 54 patients with stage I squamous cell carcinoma and 37 patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma were analysed. Mean follow up time of the stage I carcinomas was 71 months (median, 62.5; range, 6-175).

RESULTS

Twenty three patients (stage I) had recurring disease: 10 had local recurrence (in the tongue) and 13 had regional recurrence (cervical metastases). Locally recurring stage I carcinomas had a more pronounced DNA deviation than the other stage I carcinomas and this degree of deviation was comparable with the DNA content of advanced carcinomas. Stage I carcinomas that developed regional recurrences overexpressed p53 more frequently. In Cox multivariate regression analysis of time to recurrence, DNA deviation was a significant parameter in tumours that recurred locally (p = 0.032). p53 overexpression was the only parameter close to significance for regional recurrence (p = 0.065).

CONCLUSIONS

Nuclear DNA content and p53 immunostaining are of value for the prediction of recurrence of stage I squamous cell carcinomas of the mobile tongue. Stage I tongue carcinomas that are prone to local recurrence show the same DNA content as do advanced tongue carcinomas.

Stereological estimates of nuclear volume in thin malignant melanomas

Stereological estimation of nuclear volume was performed in a case control study of 72 malignant melanomas, thickness < or = 0.8 mm and Clark's level II-III. However, stereological measurements could be performed in only 57 thin melanomas due to too sparse cellularity. Thus, 21 thin metastasizing melanomas were individually compared with 33 thin non-metastasizing melanomas after individual matching of cases with one or two randomly chosen controls for site of primary tumour, tumour thickness, level of invasion, tumour regression and follow-up. Conditional logistic regression analysis showed no significant differences in nuclear volume between metastasizing and non-metastasizing thin malignant melanomas.

Preneoplastic oral lesions: the clinical value of image cytometry DNA analysis, p53 and p21/WAF1 expression

BACKGROUND

Various mucosal lesions are frequently encountered in the oral cavity. Neither macroscopic nor microscopic evaluation of these lesions gives any reliable information concerning the risk of cancer development.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From 21 patients, 29 mucosal lesions were found to precede development of invasive squamous cell carcinoma or carcinoma in situ at the same location. The lesions were matched to 29 control lesions, with the same grade of dysplasia and from exactly the same locations but without subsequent cancer during a mean follow up of 112 months (46-194). The specimens were evaluated using Image Cytometry DNA analysis and immunohistochemical analysis of p53 and p21/WAF1 expression.

RESULTS

Lesions prior to carcinomatous development displayed a higher degree of DNA aberration as compared with the control lesions. p53 and p21/WAF1 evaluation did not reveal any differences between cases and controls.

CONCLUSION

Image Cytometry DNA analysis is an useful adjunct to histopathological evaluation of oral mucosal lesions for prediction of risk of malignant transformation.

Stromelysin-3 mRNA expression in dysplasias and invasive epithelial cancer of the larynx

Matrix metalloproteinases are believed to play an important role in tumor progression, invasion and metastasis. In order to investigate if the expression of stromelysin-3 (ST3) mRNA could add prognostic information concerning invasive laryngeal cancer and/or be indicative of a high risk for tumor progression in laryngeal dysplasias ST3 expression was analyzed by in situ hybridisation of formalin fixed paraffin embedded laryngeal specimens. Furthermore, all specimens underwent image cytometry (ICM) DNA analysis, and, p53 immunostaining. Invasive epithelial cancer, both localized (T1, T2) cancers, cured, as well as not cured, by radiotherapy, and cases with regional lymph node metastases were studied. Furthermore, high grade and low grade dysplasias, selected for rapid, slow and non-progression, as well as non-neoplastic inflammatory lesions were investigated. Expression of the ST3 gene was found in 9 out of 14 (64%) invasive cancer lesions, and in 3 out of 10 (30%) dysplasias, thus indicating that ST3 expression correlates to tumor progression. The ST3 positive laryngeal cancer lesions displayed a higher degree of DNA aberration than the ST3 negative lesions thus suggesting that ST3 positivity could indicate highly malignant tumors. Of the three ST3 positive dysplasias, the first progressed rapidly to cancer in situ with suspected microinvasion. The second ST3 positive dysplasia progressed to invasive cancer within five months. The third ST3 positive dysplasia had been radically excised and hereby cured. All but one of the dysplastic lesions showed p53 immunoreactivity, and all dysplasias exhibited aneuploid cells. ST3 expression appears to be a late event in the multistage process of carcinogenesis and could prove useful as an indicator of dysplasias with imminent risk for progression to invasive cancer.

Reproducibility and efficiency testing of two sampling methods for image analysis in cytology

OBJECTIVE

Quantitative nuclear DNA analyses and nuclear morphometry have become a widely used tool in pathology. Nevertheless, studies done by different observers utilizing the same methods very often have shown different results. One of the reasons could be that different sampling methods were used. In this study two selection methods for image analyses (the consecutive selection method and the random selection method) were tested for reproducibility and efficiency.

STUDY DESIGN

Using an interactive imaging analysis system, 10 cases (5 breast adenocarcinomas, 3 prostatic cancers, 1 sarcoma, 2 prostatic hyperplasias) were measured twice by using each sampling method. Median nuclear area and entropy (i.e., a statistical descriptor of DNA histograms) were the parameters calculated.

RESULTS

The results showed that using the consecutive selection method, the number of individual nuclei in a cytologic sample that should be measured to obtain reproducible results was 150 for nuclear area and 110 for entropy. The corresponding figures using random systematic selection method were 80 for assessment of nuclear area and 100 for assessment of entropy.

CONCLUSION

Both methods showed high reproducibility and a good correlation with each other. The mathematical idea of "plateau values," which was used to estimate the number of measurements needed, was considered a good contribution to increasing the efficiency of both methods.

Analysis of nuclear DNA and morphometry, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen in primary and metastatic malignant melanoma

Sections from 23 primary malignant melanomas and 39 corresponding metastases were analysed for DNA content, nuclear morphometry, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). In 15 of 23 patients (65%) both primary and secondary tumours showed similar DNA patterns, whereas a disparity was found in the remaining eight patients (35%). The 23 primary tumours and groups of metastases (from different patients) located in skin, lymph nodes, and brain did not differ significantly in any of the variables investigated. Cox stepwise regression analysis indicated that a large variability (CV) of nuclear area in the first metastasis correlated with increased survival after recurrence (p = 0.039) as well as with survival (p = 0.031).

p53 immunostaining and image cytometry DNA analysis in precancerous and cancerous squamous epithelial lesions of the larynx

BACKGROUND

Squamous epithelial cancer can develop from progressive epithelial changes connoted dysplasias. Histopathologic evaluation/grading of these lesions is difficult and gives poor information concerning the risk for progression to cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) frequently show p53 alteration and DNA-ploidy aberration. Could these markers be used as indicators for malignancy risk in the larynx?

METHODS

Immunohistochemical staining (IHC), with the CM-1 antibody against p53, and image cytometry (ICM) DNA analysis were performed in 60 lesions from 12 patients--and 21 controls--who were initially seen with laryngeal lesions prior to cancer in situ (cis) or invasive cancer diagnosis at the same site.

RESULTS

All but one of the invasive cancers, and 77% of the lesions which preceded cancer or cancer in situ, showed positive p53 immunostaining, as compared with only 10% of the controls. All but one of the invasive cancer lesions, and 77% of the precancerous lesions, showed aberrant DNA-ploidy results, whereas all controls were diploid. When DNA and p53 analysis were combined, only one of the lesions preceding cis or invasive cancer was negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Both p53 immunoreactivity and DNA-ploidy aberration appear to be early events in the multistep process of squamous epithelial carcinogenesis. Immunohistochemical staining p53 analysis and ICM DNA analysis does increase the diagnostic sensitivity for cancerous and true precancerous lesions in the larynx.

Reproducibility of subjective immunoscoring of steroid receptors in breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the reproducibility of subjective immunoscoring of steroid receptors in breast cancer by inexperienced observers after brief training by one experienced observer.

STUDY DESIGN

Thirteen inexperienced observers were trained for a few minutes semiquantitatively (0-4) to score tumor nuclei in two breast cancer frozen sections immunohistochemically stained each for estrogen or progesterone receptors. Then, the fractions of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 "stained" nuclei were estimated individually. Thereafter, the experienced observer pointed out the nuclei one by one, and the participants scored these nuclei individually. From these data, histoscores were calculated.

RESULTS

When comparing individual scorings (n = 1,320) with the gold standard, discrepancies occurred mainly between scores 2 and 3, and the best concordance was achieved for the scores 0 and 4. For the histoscores, coefficients of variations for the estimated scores (7.3-33.7, mean 17.2) were systematically higher than those derived from nucleus-by-nucleus scoring (2.6-15.4, mean 10.3).

CONCLUSION

Inexperienced observers can be trained quickly to arrive at fairly reproducible histoscores for immunohistochemically stained estrogen and progesterone receptors in breast cancer frozen sections. Nucleus-by-nucleus scoring seems to be more reproducible than estimating fractions of nuclei with certain positivity and should be recommended in cases of values close to the decision threshold.

Nuclear DNA content and p53 immunostaining in metachronous preneoplastic lesions and subsequent carcinomas of the oral cavity

BACKGROUND

Clinical evaluation of preneoplastic lesions of the oral cavity is difficult. Histopathologic grading of dysplasias shows large variability and does not give reliable information concerning the risk for progression to cancer.

METHODS

DNA image cytometry and p53 immunostaining were performed to describe the pattern of DNA aberration and p53 overexpression in confined preneoplastic lesions and in the subsequent carcinomas developing at the same site in 20 patients.

RESULTS

Hyperplastic and/or inflammatory lesions showed a diploid DNA pattern in 81% of the cases and 23% were p53-positive. Dysplastic preneoplastic lesions showed a nondiploid/ aneuploid DNA pattern in 73% and 64% were p53-positive. The subsequent invasive carcinomas were nondiploid/aneuploid in 86% and p53-positive in 69% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of nuclear DNA content and p53 immunostaining appears to be useful as an adjunct to histopathology in the evaluation of true precancerous lesions.

CYTOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS OF BONE TUMOURS

We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of fine-needle aspiration biopsy in a prospective study of 300 patients with previously undiagnosed bone lesions. Patients with suspected local recurrence of a primary bone tumour or a metastatic lesion of a previously diagnosed malignancy were excluded. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy was performed under radiological control as an outpatient procedure.

The series was grouped into three major categories: 1) benign bone lesions including infections; 2) primary malignant bone tumours; and 3) metastases including lymphomas and myelomas. We compared the cytological diagnosis with the final diagnosis as assessed by histological examination and/or the clinical and radiological features.

Material considered conclusive for cytological diagnosis was obtained from 251 of the 300 patients. Of the 49 failures, there were 24 aspirates with insufficient cellular yield and 25 in which a diagnosis could not be made although the cytological material was adequate in quantity. Most of the inconclusive aspirates (36/49) were obtained from benign bone lesions.

The diagnosis was correct in 239 (95%) of the 251 cases providing adequate cytological material. There were eight (3%) falsely benign diagnoses, one (0.3%) falsely malignant, and three cases in which we were unable to differentiate between sarcoma and a metastasis. Chondrosarcoma (2/12) gave the greatest diagnostic difficulty and Ewing’s sarcoma the least (0/9). There were no decisive errors of treatment. All falsely benign or malignant diagnoses were questioned, and led to open biopsy since they did not correlate with the clinical and radiological features.

Our study suggests that fine-needle aspiration biopsy is a valid option for the diagnosis of bone tumours. It is a simple outpatient procedure which gives sufficient cytological material for the correct diagnosis in 80% of cases. As with histological analysis of material from open biopsy, the cytological assessment must agree with the clinical and radiological findings.

Cytological diagnosis of bone tumours

We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of fine-needle aspiration biopsy in a prospective study of 300 patients with previously undiagnosed bone lesions. Patients with suspected local recurrence of a primary bone tumour or a metastatic lesion of a previously diagnosed malignancy were excluded. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy was performed under radiological control as an outpatient procedure. The series was grouped into three major categories: 1) benign bone lesions including infections; 2) primary malignant bone tumours; and 3) metastases including lymphomas and myelomas. We compared the cytological diagnosis with the final diagnosis as assessed by histological examination and/or the clinical and radiological features. Material considered conclusive for cytological diagnosis was obtained from 251 of the 300 patients. Of the 49 failures, there were 24 aspirates with insufficient cellular yield and 25 in which a diagnosis could not be made although the cytological material was adequate in quantity. Most of the inconclusive aspirates (36/49) were obtained from benign bone lesions. The diagnosis was correct in 239 (95%) of the 251 cases providing adequate cytological material. There were eight (3%) falsely benign diagnoses, one (0.3%) falsely malignant, and three cases in which we were unable to differentiate between sarcoma and a metastasis. Chondrosarcoma (2/12) gave the greatest diagnostic difficulty and Ewing's sarcoma the least (0/9). There were no decisive errors of treatment. All falsely benign or malignant diagnoses were questioned, and led to open biopsy since they did not correlate with the clinical and radiological features. Our study suggests that fine-needle aspiration biopsy is a valid option for the diagnosis of bone tumours. It is a simple outpatient procedure which gives sufficient cytological material for the correct diagnosis in 80% of cases. As with histological analysis of material from open biopsy, the cytological assessment must agree with the clinical and radiological findings.

Combined use of nuclear morphometry and DNA ploidy as prognostic indicators in nonresectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreas

The introduction of combined modality treatment has only marginally affected the prognosis in nonresectable pancreatic carcinoma. Evaluation of easily accessible prognostic variables could be of clinical importance when selecting patients for proper therapy. DNA ploidy and morphometric variables were chosen as prognostic markers and assessed on cytologic material obtained by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) from 128 patients with pancreatic carcinoma. The nuclear DNA content was measured by image cytometry. Patients were categorized as short-term (< or = 6 mo) and long-term survivors (> 6 mo). Ninety-eight of 116 nonresectable patients were possible to evaluate. There were significant differences between short- and long-term survivors with regard to DNA ploidy (p < 0.01) and the morphonuclear variable anisokaryosis (p < 0.001). In patients with either DNA aneuploid tumors or anisokaryosis > or = 0.6, the survival time was 6 mo or less in 85 and 93%, respectively. When both these criteria were fulfilled, only 5% survived for more than 6 mo. Thus, DNA ploidy and morphometry, separately or in combination, may provide prognostic information in nonresectable pancreatic carcinoma.

Low risk of recurrence of enchondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma in extremities. 80 patients followed for 2-25 years

We analyzed the clinical course in 40 patients with enchondroma and 40 with low-grade chondrosarcoma of the extremities after a median follow-up of 7 years. 13 patients with enchondroma and 2 with chondrosarcoma had only open biopsy and they had no signs of further progression of the lesions. Among 23 patients with enchondroma and 23 with chondrosarcoma who were treated by intralesional curettage, 3 had local recurrences. The 10-year local recurrence rate was 0.04 in the enchondroma group and 0.09 in the chondrosarcoma group. There were no metastases. The results imply that enchondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma of the extremities should be treated with limited surgery. The morbidity associated with en bloc resection and reconstruction can apparently be obviated without jeopardizing the limb or survival.

Near-haploidy in two malignant fibrous histiocytomas

Cytogenetic analysis of two malignant fibrous histiocytomas (MFH) revealed near-haploid clones in both tumors. One tumor had only 23 chromosomes, the lowest chromosome number so far detected in human neoplasia, and showed several structural rearrangements: 23, X, der(1)t(1;?;8)(q42;?;q13), +del(7)(p11),der(8)t(8;13)(q13;q12), inv(9)(p24q21), r(10)(p15q26), -13, der(14)t(14;22)(p13;q11), -15, +r. The other MFH had only numerical changes: 28,X, +5, +18, +20, +21, +22/56, idemx2. With the present two cases, four of 78 MFHs studied in our laboratory have been near-haploid, suggesting that this otherwise rare phenomenon in neoplasia may be relatively common in MFH.