Cellular Plasticity-Targeted Therapy in Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancer is one of the most frequent human malignancies worldwide, with a high rate of recurrence and metastasis. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is cellularly and molecularly heterogeneous, with subsets of undifferentiated cancer cells exhibiting stem cell-like properties, called cancer stem cells (CSCs). Epithelial-mesenchymal transition, gene mutation, and epigenetic modification are associated with the formation of cellular plasticity of tumor cells in HNSCC, contributing to the acquisition of invasive, recurrent, and metastatic properties and therapeutic resistance. Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a supportive role in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of head and neck cancer. Stromal fibroblasts, vasculature, immune cells, cytokines, and hypoxia constitute the main components of TME in HNSCC, which contributes not only to the acquisition of CSC properties but also to the recurrence and therapeutic resistance of the malignancies. In this review, we discuss the potential mechanisms underlying the development of cellular plasticity, especially the emergence of CSCs, in HNSCC. We also highlight recent studies implicating the complex interplays among TME components, plastic CSCs, tumorigenesis, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance of HNSCC. Finally, we summarize the treatment modalities of HNSCC and reinforce the novel concept of therapeutic targeting CSCs in HNSCC.

Orbital melanoma with calcification: A diagnostic dilemma

Primary orbital melanoma is rare and has varied initial presentation. A 28-year-old female presented with proptosis and decreased vision in the left eye. Computed tomography scan showed an orbital mass with contrast enhancement and calcification around the optic nerve leading to a diagnosis of meningioma. The patient chose to be on observation. Loss of vision with an increase in proptosis was seen at 6 months follow-up. On surgical exploration, a well-defined pigmented mass was seen encasing the optic nerve. Histopathological analysis revealed a malignant melanoma. Metastatic workup was negative. Left eye lid sparing exenteration was done. A high index of suspicion is necessary in a rapidly growing suspected optic nerve sheath meningioma and a differential diagnosis including orbital melanoma be considered.

Degradation of ultra-high molecular weight poly(methyl methacrylate-co-butyl acrylate-co-acrylic acid) under ultra violet irradiation

A new acrylic terpolymer, poly(methyl methacrylate-co-butyl acrylate-co-acrylic acid) [P(MMA-co-BA-co-AA)] of ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) was synthesizedviaseeded emulsion polymerization.

Subcutaneous Dissemination from an Orbital Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma

Secondary cutaneous dissemination from an orbital diffuse large B cell lymphoma has not been described before. The authors report an unusual case of anaplastic variant of diffuse large B cell lymphoma which primarily presented in the orbit and during the course of disease had subcutaneous dissemination.