Comparison of two intraoperative examination methods for the diagnosis of sentinel lymph node metastasis in clinically early stage endometrial cancer: A Turkish Gynecologic Oncology Group Study (TRSGO-SLN-003)

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated diagnostic accuracy of intraoperative sentinel lymph node (SLN) frozen section examination and scrape cytology as a possible solution for management of SLN positive patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Clinically early-stage endometrial cancer patients who underwent SLN algorithm and intraoperative SLN examination were analyzed. Findings were compared with final pathology results and diagnostic accuracy of frozen section and scrape cytology were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 208 eligible patients, 100 patients (48 %) had frozen section examination and 108 (52 %) had scrape cytology of the SLN. Intraoperative examination and final pathology were negative for metastasis in 187/208 (90 %) cases. The rest 21 cases had metastatic SLNs according to final pathology. 12 of 21 (57 %) metastases were classified as macrometastasis. Intraoperative examination of SLNs correctly identified 13 cases (true positive) and missed 8 cases (false negative). Five of 8 false negative cases had micrometastasis or isolated tumor cells. Considering identification of macrometastasis, sensitivity and negative predictive value were 85.71 % and 98.94 %, respectively, for the frozen section and 60.00 % and 98.15 %, respectively, for the scrape cytology.

CONCLUSION

Frozen section examination of SLN has higher sensitivity in detecting macrometastasis compared to scrape cytology and it could help the surgeon in decision for further lymphadenectomy intraoperatively.

Bortezomib induced pulmonary toxicity: a case report and review of the literature

Bortezomib is widely used in the treatment of Multiple Myeloma. While the most common side effects are neurological and gastrointestinal related complications, severe pulmonary problems are rarely described. The present case is a 72-year old male with multiple myeloma, who received Lenalidomide, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone (RVD) combination regimen. He underwent 30 Gy palliative radiotherapy to the thoracic 5-9 and lumbar L1-3 vertebra due to pain and fracture risk. During the third cycle, he was admitted to hospital with dyspnea and dizziness. The thoracic CT revealed bilateral pleural effusions, a diffuse reticular pattern on the parenchyma, and ground-glass opacities that were compatible with drug-induced lung injury. The microbiological and molecular analysis excluded infectious disease, and lung biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of Bortezomib Lung Injury. The time from the first dose of Bortezomib to the lung injury was 57 days, and it was five days from the last dose of Bortezomib. His symptoms were refractory to IV steroids and supportive care. Our patient was lost despite steroids and intensive care support. Even Bortezomib induced lung injury is a rare adverse effect, based on high mortality rate, we would like to emphasize the clinical importance of this clinical scenario in light of the published literature and our presented case.

EML4-ALK-positive lung adenocarcinoma presenting an unusual metastatic pattern in a 29-year-old woman who is alive and well in her third year follow up:A case report

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a frequent tumor entity with high mortality. Although several newly discovered chromosomal translocations and mutations opened new horizons for targeted therapy, literature still lacks large series of NSCLC with chromosomal abberations and their correlations with histological and clinical features. We present a case of echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4-anaplastic lymphoma kinase (EML4-ALK) translocation positive adenocarcinoma of the lung with an unusual metastatic pattern in a 29-year-old young woman.

CONCLUSION

Young adult non-smoker female patients with an unexplained pleural effusion and signs of metastatic disease should alert the physicians straight away for all types of malignancies including lung cancer. Any skin lesions should be evaluated carefully, biopsies should be done to exclude metastasis in urgency. On the other hand, an uncommon clinical presentation of a lung cancer requires corresponding molecular testing rapidly in order to offer the best treatment option.

Interobserver agreement among histological patterns and diagnosis in lung adenocarcinomas

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the interobserver agreement in determination of the dominant histological pattern and the final diagnosis in lung adenocarcinomas.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A total of 12 patients with a diagnosis of primary lung adenocarcinoma were included in the study. Twelve pathologists from eight study centers were asked first to determine the dominant histological pattern in these cases and then to decide whether the final diagnosis was in situ, minimally invasive or invasive adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

The kappa value for the agreement in determining the dominant pattern among the pathologists was 0.36 (p < 0.001), with the values for the lepidic, acinar, papillary, solid, micropapillary patterns and mucinous character of adenocarcinoma being 0.34, 0.28, 0.30, 0.80, 0.16 and 0.38 respectively (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001). None of the cases was diagnosed as in situ adenocarcinoma. On the other hand, the kappa value for the agreement in differentiating minimally invasive from invasive adenocarcinoma among reviewers was 0.17 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The agreement among pathologists in determining the subtype of lung adenocarcinomas that depends on the identification of the dominant pattern was at intermediate level. In addition, the agreement in deciding whether the case is minimally invasive or invasive, was at low level. The criteria defining the histological patterns should be clarified and described in more detail. Educational activities and larger multicenter studies might be helpful in improving the agreement and standardization.

Intraoperative frozen section in ovarian neoplasms; a tertiary center experience

OBJECTIVE

Frozen section is an accurate diagnostic tool with some unavoidable pitfalls in gynecologic tumors. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of frozen section, and to detect the factors causing erroneous diagnosis in ovarian tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Frozen section and paraffin section reports of 282 patients with ovarian neoplasms diagnosed between July 2006 and January 2013 in our institute were re-analyzed. RESULTS were grouped into benign, borderline (for epithelial tumors) and malignant categories and compared between frozen section and paraffin section diagnosis, statistically.

RESULTS

Overall diagnostic accuracy of frozen section was 96.5%. Sensitivity of frozen section for benign, borderline and malignant tumors were 97.5%, 95.8%, and 95.6% and the related specificities were 97.5%, 97.6%, and 100%, respectively. We found the lowest positive predictive value in borderline group (79.3%), all of them with mucinous type epithelium. Second frequent discordant tumor type was immature teratoma.

CONCLUSION

Apart from the limitations of frozen section, pathologists should be aware of the pitfalls of technique and tumor types and tend to sample from the solid areas particularly in mucinous tumors and teratomas to avoid inappropriate surgery.

Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis: a case study and review of the literature

Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma is an uncommon tumor of the testes that usually presents as a hydrocele. Here, we present the case of one patient who did not have a history of asbestos exposure. The tumor was localized in the tunica vaginalis and was composed of three pedunculated masses macroscopically. Microscopically, branching papillary structures with focal coagulative necrosis were present. In addition to immunohistochemistry, simian virus 40 DNA was also tested by polymerase chain reaction. This report presents one case of this rare entity, its clinical and macroscopic features, and follow-up results.

The guidance of intraoperative frozen section for staging surgery in endometrial carcinoma: frozen section in endometrial carcinoma

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of an intraoperative frozen section during the endometrial carcinoma staging surgery procedure. The paraffin section reports of 291 cases with endometrial carcinoma were compared with intraoperative frozen section reports, which were diagnosed in the Pathology Department of Cukurova University, Medical Faculty between June 2006 and December 2012. The reports were reviewed for diagnostic accuracy of the frozen section in terms of histological subtype, grade, and myometrial invasion. Concordance values between frozen and paraffin section reports were 86, 84.3, and 91.6% for histological subtype, grade, and myometrial invasion, respectively. When collectively evaluated, two (0.7%) of 291 patients were inappropriately operated on due to frozen section reports. Intraoperative frozen section is a reliable guide for surgeons to evaluate the risk group of patients with endometrial cancer and prevent an unnecessary staging surgery operation.

Prognostic importance of survivin, Ki-67, and topoisomerase IIα in ovarian carcinoma

PURPOSE

Stage, tumor grade and histological subtype determine the clinical behavior in ovarian tumors. Some additional factors are related to tumor cell biology and are the useful predictors for identifying the patients with poor prognosis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prognostic significance of survivin, Ki-67 and Topoisomerase IIα (TOPO IIα) in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-three patients with EOC were included in this study. Survivin, Ki-67 and TOPO IIα expressions were studied by immunohistochemistry on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections. Nuclear staining for all antibodies was scored on a three-tiered system and more than 10 % staining was accepted as expression. The relationship between the expressions of survivin, Ki-67, TOPO IIα and clinicopathological parameters including age, stage, grade, platinum resistance and survival was evaluated.

RESULTS

Survivin, Ki-67 and TOPO IIα expressions were found in 20, 82 and 86 % of the tumors, respectively. Ki-67 and TOPO IIα expressions were found to be related to poor overall survival (p = 0.005, 0.004, respectively), while survivin expression was not associated with overall survival. There was no association between TOPO IIα and Ki-67 expressions and histological subtype, stage or grade. However, we found an important relationship between TOPO IIα expression and platinum resistance (p = 0.044). Platinum resistance was found to be an independent prognostic factor in EOC.

CONCLUSION

Ki-67 and TOPO IIα expressions were found to be related to poor overall survival, and TOPO IIα expression was found to be associated with platinum resistance.

Clinical, histopathological and mineralogical analysis findings of an unusual case of pneumoconiosis

A 43-year-old man with a long history of dyspnea which had progressively worsened over the preceding month is presented. He had worked in an antimony mine for 3 years. Radiologically, there were diffuse reticulonodular shadowing opacities in both lung parenchymas. Histopathologic examination of the open-lung biopsy specimen revealed alveolar spaces filled with dust-laden macrophages and amorphous proteinaceous semifluid, the latter being immunoreactive for Human Surfactant Apoprotein A, associated with marked interstitial accumulation of the similar-looking macrophages along the bronchovascular bundles and mild interstitial fibrosis. Silicotic nodules or mixed dust fibrosis were not seen. The patient was diagnosed as silicoproteinosis with unusual histopathological features because he had worked in an antimony mine for only 3 years and had 86% silica in a mineralogical analysis. Pneumoconiosis is a rare lung disease which may be confused with other interstitial lung diseases. Clinical, radiological and unusual histopathologic features of this rare case are presented and discussed with the differential diagnosis, especially of mixed dust pneumoconiosis.

Mullerian adenosarcoma of the uterine cervix in an adolescent girl

BACKGROUND

Cervical adenosarcoma is a rare gynecological tumor which is prone to recur locally. A case of cervical adenosarcoma in a 14-year-old girl treated in order to preserve fertility.

CASE

A 14-year-old girl presented with a pedunculated mass protruding from the vagina. Simple excision was performed. Histological evaluation revealed adenosarcoma. Her clinical course has been uneventful for fifteen months.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Adenosarcoma is a low malignant potential tumor of the female genital tract. A simple excision may be an option for young women who need to preserve their fertility. It is mandatory to monitor regularly the cervical base of the lesion for the purpose of the high potential of the local recurrence.

Fallopian tube carcinoma metastatic to the pericardium and breast

INTRODUCTION

Fallopian tube carcinoma is a rare gynecological tumor and simultaneous pericardial and breast metastasis of this cancer is an extremely exceptional event.

CASE

A 46-year-old woman with FIGO Stage IIIc, grade 3 adenocarcinoma of the fallopian tube received cyclophosphamide and carboplatin subsequent to surgery. The disease had been completely silent for 41 months and then it relapsed with pericardial and breast metastasis consecutively. She expired one year after the relapse.

CONCLUSION

Although clinical and biological behavior and response to the treatment of fallopian tube carcinoma is quite similar to epithelial ovarian carcinoma, breast and pericardium are unusual sites of metastasis for each malignancy. As survival is prolonged with new chemotherapeutics these atypical cancer metastases will be observed more frequently.

Prognostic significance of p16/cdkn2a loss in pleural malignant mesotheliomas

Homozygous deletion of p16/CDKN2A is the most common genetic abnormality in malignant mesotheliomas. The aim of this study was to determine prognostic significance of p16/CDKN2A loss in malignant pleural mesotheliomas (MPM) as defined by immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). High-density tissue microarrays were constructed from archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples of 48 MPM. Long survival (LS) was defined as survival greater than 3 years from the time of diagnosis, and short survival was defined as less than 3 years from the time of diagnosis. Both loss of p16 protein expression by immunohistochemistry and homozygous deletion of p16 by FISH were associated with adverse prognosis. Female gender, positive p16 immunoexpression, and lack of p16/CDKN2A deletion significantly predicted the survival for the LS group. Statistical analysis showed a very strong correlation of immunohistochemistry and FISH data. Cases positive for p16 immunoexpression and negative for 9p21 deletion showed the best survival time. Our study is the first to demonstrate decreased frequency of homozygous deletion of 9p21 and loss of p16 immunoreactivity in pleural mesotheliomas from patients with long-term survival of greater than 3 years in contrast to patients with rapidly fatal mesotheliomas. A possible implementation of these tests into preoperative prognostication of MPM and therapeutic decisions should be considered.

Maspin overexpression correlates with increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factors A, C, and D in human ovarian carcinoma

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, including VEGFA, VEGFC, and VEGFD, plays an essential role in the angiogenesis of both pathologic and nonpathologic conditions. Maspin belongs to the serpin superfamily and has been identified as a tumor suppressor because it inhibits motility, invasion, and angiogenesis. Few studies have compared maspin with VEGF in ovarian carcinoma. Therefore, we investigated the expression and correlation of maspin, VEGFA, VEGFC, and VEGFD with the tumorigenesis of the ovary and clinicopathologic variables. Using immunohistochemistry, we examined maspin, VEGFA, VEGFC, and VEGFD expression in 60 ovarian carcinoma tissues (35 serous papillary carcinomas, 18 endometrioid carcinomas, and 7 primary ovarian mucinous carcinomas). Staining of cells was scored as +2 if more than 50% of the cells were positive, as +1 if less than 50% of the cells were positive, and as negative if none of the cells stained positive. Overexpression of maspin, VEGFC, and VEGFD was significantly associated with high tumor grade (P<.001, P=.004, P<.001, respectively), clinical stage (P=.002, .01, and .001, respectively), the presence of ascites (P<.001, P=.03, and P=.001, respectively), and the presence of metastatic lymph nodes (P=.002, P<.001, and P<.001, respectively). Maspin was correlated with VEGFA (P=.01), VEGFC (P<.001), and VEGFD (P<.001). The VEGFA score was positively correlated with high tumor grade (P=.04), lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) (P<.001), International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage (P=.009), maspin, VEGFC (P=.003), and VEGFD (P=.003), but it was not correlated with the presence of ascites and metastatic lymph nodes. Maspin, VEGFC, and VEGFD are expressed in ovarian tumors with a poor prognostic parameters, and seem to play a role in ovarian cancer angiogenesis, progression, and lymph node metastases. Our results indicate that in contrast to most other carcinomas, maspin expression is directly associated with the biological aggressiveness of ovarian carcinoma. These results may offer new insights regarding the role of maspin in ovarian cancer and might also affect the diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Non-puerperal inversion of the uterus caused by leiomyosarcoma: a case report and clinical management

Uterine inversion is a rare complication of the postpartum period, but it is an even rarer complication of the non-puerperal period. A 49-year-old nulliparous woman was admitted to the hospital with the following complaints: abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain, anuria and a mass protruding from the vulva. The mass was removed by twisting and a laparotomy was required for massive bleeding due to the inversion. The diagnosis of complete inversion was made during the laparotomy. Total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed and the pathological examination revealed a leiomyosarcoma. Uterine inversion in the non-puerperal period is an extremely rare event and it should be kept in mind that the cause of the inversion may be a malignant disease, like leiomyosarcoma.

Topoisomerase-II, c-erb B2, c-kit and bcl-2 expression in non-small cell lung cancer treated with docetaxel and gemcitabine based threapy

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Background: This study was conducted to determine the expression of the topoisomeras-II, c-erb B2, c-kit and bcl-2 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Material-methods: These factors expression were identified by immunohistochemical method in 62 NSCLC patients pathologically verified on before therapy. Results: 3 patients were in stage-II, 10 in stage-IIIA, 21 in stage-IIIB and 28 in stage-IV. 14 patients had refused therapy, 12 were undergone to surgery alone and 36 recieved multimodality therapy. 27 patients recieved docetaxel-cisplatin therapy and 7 had recieved gemcitabine-cisplatin therapy. Of those docetaxel treated patients 14 received radiation therapy and others undewent surgery in combination therapy. In 31 patients topoisomerase-II was +2 (50%), +1 in 3 patients, +3 in 27 patients and in 1 patient the expression was negative. c-erb B2 was negative in 1, +1 in 2, +2 in 14 and +3 in 45 patients. bcl-2 was negative in 9, +1 in 16, +2 in 22 and +3 in 15 patients. c-kit was negative in 9, +1 in 26, +2 in 15 and +3 in 12 patients. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS- 14 software program. The disease stage, received therapies and the expression of the these proteins was correlated, median survival time and possible prognostic factors were identified. There were statistically significant between stage and patient status (P=0.000), either with therapy or no therapy (p=0.003), bcl-2 (p=0.09) and c-kit (p=0.022), respectively. There were statisticaly significant between stage and bcl-2 (p=0.023), bcl-2 and c-kit (p=0.001), respectively. At the end of the follow-up time, 38 (61.3%) patients were alive. The median survival was 37.2 months. There were not any prognostic values for topoisomerase-II (p=0.7), c-erb B2 (p=0.6), bcl-2 p=0.15) and c-kit (p=0.118) expression. Conclussion: In conclussion, we suggested that the treatment modality of patients with NSCLC should be combination therapy. The patients received docetaxel based therapy had long median survival time. In addition there was no prognosticeffect of the expression of the topoisomeras-II, c- erb B2, c-kit and bcl-2 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Huge Bilateral Pulmonary and Pleural Metastasis from Intracranial Meningioma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

A case of recurrent meningioma with atypical features and extracranial metastases is reported. A 34-year-old female was operated in 1996, 2000, and 2002, and frontal parasagittal meningioma was extirpated. Histological diagnoses of all the resected tumors were meningotheliomatous meningioma, WHO Grade I. However, 2 years later, the tumor recurred in the frontal scalp and was removed again totally. Histological diagnosis was reported as an atypical meningioma; meningotheliomatous type; WHO Grade II. She received radiation therapy. But the tumor had metastasized to the lung and pleura. Transthoracic tru-cut biopsy was performed from large mass of the left lung. Cytopathology was consistent with malignant meningioma, metastasis from the patient's known intracranial meningioma. Ki-67 staining index at the primary and metastatic sites of the present cases were 7 and 5%, respectively. We reviewed and discussed the histopathological features and mechanisms of metastasizing meningioma.

Metastatic thymoma as a retrovesical mass

Retrovesical masses can be of various histopathological origin, most often prostatic. Primary tumours as well as metastatic lesions should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Metastatic thymoma, as presented in this case report, can be an extremely rare cause of retrovesical space occupying lesion.

Effects on Reperfusion Injury of Adding Diltiazem to Tepid Blood Cardioplegia

BACKGROUND

Although the present techniques of myocardial preservation for limiting ischemia/reperfusion injury in open heart operations yield excellent results for most patients, certain subgroups of patients with advanced coronary artery disease present a challenge in terms of intraoperative safety.

METHODS

In a prospective, randomized, controlled study, we assessed the myocardial protective effects of a total dose of 150 +/- 150 = 300 microg/kg diltiazem added to induction and terminal (reperfusion) doses of tepid blood cardioplegia. We determined the myocardial morphological (ultrastructural) and enzymatic (serum assays for the cardiospecific isoenzyme of creatine kinase [CK-MB]) changes and functional recovery (atrioventricular [AV]-node recovery time and postoperative need for inotropic support) in patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass operations. The determinations were made with respect to values for control patients, who received the same cardioplegia but without the addition of diltiazem.

RESULTS

The mean isoenzyme CK-MB levels and semiquantitative ultrastructural score values of the diltiazem group were significantly less than those of the control group. Although AV-node recovery time was significantly prolonged (P < .05), this factor did not have major clinical impact.

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded that the addition of 150 +/- 150 microg/kg diltiazem to the induction and terminal doses of tepid cardioplegia enhanced myocardial protection in elective aortocoronary bypass surgery in high-risk patients and presented no significant additional operative risk.

Intravenous leiomyomatosis extending into the right ventricle after subtotal hysterectomy

A case of intravenous leiomyomatosis with extension into the right ventricle is described. A tumor in the inferior vena cava was detected three years after a subtotal hysterectomy had been performed for a myomatous uterus but was misdiagnosed as a thrombus. The tumor enlarged and intruded into the right ventricle for which she underwent surgery. The correct diagnosis was made during the surgery, therefore a two-stage resection was planned. Surgical resection is the best treatment for intracardiac extension of intravenous leiomyoma. We recommend iliac venotomy to remove the ilio-caval portion of the tumor in both stages of operations.

A rare case of Hurthle cell carcinoma with endobronchial metastasis

Endobronchial metastases (EBM) are frequently seen in breast, renal and colon carcinomas. However, to our knowledge, only one case has ever been reported as EBM secondary to Hurthle cell carcinoma (HCC) in the literature. A 57-year-old woman had a bilateral total thyroidectomy for thyroid mass in 1990 that was diagnosed as HCC. She was admitted to our outpatient clinic in August 1999, with symptoms of cough, sputum, and right-sided pleuritic pain for the last seven months. In the bronchoscopic examination, two endobronchial lesions were seen. Pathological evaluation of the bronchoscopic samples was diagnosed as "Hurthle cell carcinoma" of thyroid. We suggest that, although rare, HCC should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the endobronchial metastasis.

Antrochoanal polyp: a transmission electron and light microscopic study

Antrochoanal polyp (ACP) is a soft tissue mass originating from the maxillary antrum, emerging from the ostium and extending to the choana through the nasal cavity. Our aim was to investigate the light microscopic and ultrastructural features of ACP and to compare these with nasal polyps originating from the middle meatus (MMP). Seven ACP and seven MMP specimens were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and light microscopy. TEM examination showed epithelial cells with intact cilia covering both polyps. In some MMP cases, degeneration of the epithelium associated with some cilia loss was noted. Goblet cell hyperplasia was more prominent in MMP cases. Degeneration and partial destruction of the endothelial cells of the blood vessels were common findings in ACP cases; however, in the MMP group, endothelial cells were mostly intact with a few aggregates of ribosomes, and intact cell junctions were noted. Light microscopic examination revealed that inflammatory cells in the ACP group were numerous. However, eosinophils were predominant in MMP cases. Squamous metaplasia of the surface epithelium was detected in five ACP cases, but in none of the MMP cases. Basement membrane thickening was detected in two cases of the ACP and in four cases of the MMP group. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups for inflammatory cells, eosinophilic cell infiltration, squamous cell metaplasia, endothelial cell destruction and goblet cell metaplasia. In conclusion, the low number of eosinophils, the high number of other inflammatory cells, the normal appearing basement membrane and intact and normal surface epithelium may reveal that the etiology of ACP might arise from chronic inflammatory processes rather than allergy. The destruction of the endothelium may be considered as a further sign of chronic inflammation.

A rare retroperitoneal benign tumor. Castleman's disease

A case of retroperitoneal Castleman's disease - a benign lymphoid tumor - is reported. The tumor is excised totally. A 34-month follow-up period is disease free and uneventful. The preoperative workup presented, its clinical behavior and management are discussed.

Extramedullary relapse in the pleura in acute promyelocytic leukemia

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a distinct subtype of acute myeloblastic leukemia with specific clinical, morphologic and genetic features and a good response to all trans retinoic acid (ATRA). However, extramedullary (EM) relapse is an interesting feature of these cases, especially those treated with ATRA. Recently, we have encountered an EM relapse in the pleura in a case with APL receiving an ATRA containing regimen. This case is reported and the relevant literature is reviewed.

PCNA and Ki-67 in central nervous system tumors: correlation with the histological type and grade

Determination of proteins in the control of proliferation in normal cells helps a better understanding of cellular transformation and proliferation mechanisms. Measurement of proliferative activity is important in determining the tumor grade, recurrence span and malignancy. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 are two of the nuclear markers used to demonstrate the proliferative phase of the cell cycle. In the present study, 63 central nervous system (CNS) tumors of various histologic types, diagnosed in Cukurova University Medical Faculty. Department of Pathology and graded according to WHO grading system were examined for PCNA and Ki-67 monoclonal antibodies using immunohistochemistry. Results were analyzed with statistical methods. Distribution of PCNA and Ki-67 LI (labeling index) values were determined for different tumor types. The highest PCNA and Ki-67 LI values were detected in medulloblastoma, malignant meningioma, primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) and glioblastoma (GBM) groups, while pilocytic astrocytoma, meningioma, craniopharyngioma and oligodendroglioma showed the lowest values. In such tumors, the correlation between the increasing grade and PCNA and Ki-67 LI values were statistically significant. A correlation between the clinical outcome and Ki-67 and PCNA LI values was also detected. Conclusively, both markers can be used to evaluate the tumor grade and to asses the possibility of recurrence and malignancy in CNS tumors.

Giant orf on the nose

Ecthyma contagiosum, or orf, is a viral zoonosis of sheep and goats that can be transmitted to humans. In humans, it generally manifests as a solitary skin lesion, although rarely it can have an unusual course or be accompanied by systemic symptoms or complications. We present a case of giant orf lesion on the nose of a 9-year-old. The lesion grew rapidly and measured 5 cm by 4 cm and was attached to the right ala nasi by a base 2 cm round in diameter. The diagnosis was suggested by clinical and histopathologic appearance and confirmed by electron microscopic visualization of the virus. The lesion resolved spontaneously with minimal scarring and the entire cycle lasted about 3 months.

Coincidental visualization of an atypical bronchial carcinoid on Tc-99m-sestamibi scan in Kallmann's syndrome

We report a case of an atypical bronchial carcinoid showing sestamibi uptake. A 27-year-old man with Kallmann's syndrome and hyperparathyroidism had parathyroid scintigraphy with 99mTc-sestamibi. A focal uptake was observed on the right perihilar region, and this right perihilar mass was demonstrated on computed tomography and proved histologically to be an atypical bronchial carcinoid tumor. Factors which may explain the tumoral avidity for sestamibi are increased blood flow, transmembrane potentials of plasma and mitochondrial membranes and the relative number of mitochondria present in the cells of this carcinoid tumor. The importance of this case is the coincidence of an atypical carcinoid in a patient with significant failure of secondary sexual characteristics, right renal agenesis and bilateral anosmia associated with Kallmann's syndrome.

Anticipated administration of GM-CSF in the treatment of non small cell lung cancer

The purpose of this study was to verify the kinetic response of the human marrow myeloid progenitor cells to the short term use of GM-CSF and its impact on the therapeutic activity of this three-drug cisplatinum containing regimen in non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Sixty patients with stage III-B and IV NSCLC were randomised to receive GM-CSF for 3 days, five days prior to the onset of chemotherapy. The chemotherapy regimen consisted of Mitomycin-C: 6 mg/m2 on day one, Ifosfamide: 2000 mg/m2 days 1 to 3, Mesna: 2000 mg/m2 days 1 to 3, Cisplatinum: 30 mg/m2 days 1 to 3, and was repeated every 4 weeks. All the patients received 30-50 Gy of radiotherapy to the primary and/or metastatic sites. There were positive correlations between stage of the disease, chemosensitivity of the tumor, number of chemotherapy cycles and overall survival (p=0.000). Administration of GM-CSF was an independent prognostic parameter in locally advanced and metastatic disease (p=0.041). In the GM-CSF receiving arm more courses could be given (117 versus 99, p=0.0415), and less courses were postponed (6 versus 22). In this arm, the mean of granulocyte nadir was higher (p=0.033) and mean time to granulocyte recovery became shorter (p=0.001) as the number of chemotherapy cycles increased. It was concluded that, dose intensification with GM-CSF prophylaxis is benefical in increasing the treatment tolerability by decreasing the intensity of granulocytopenia as well as providing rapid recovery.

Early ultrastructural findings and superoxide dismutase levels in experimental ischemic optic neuropathy: effect of hypertension and hypotension on ischemic changes

We induced ischemia, hypertension and hypotension in 15 rabbits in order to evaluate the ischemic changes in the optic nerve and the effect of hypertension and hypotension on ischemia. We cauterized the right internal and external carotid arteries of 15 rabbits and applied dopamine hydrochloride and glycerol trinitrate to 5 each of these rabbits. Two rabbits were used as controls. We enucleated both eyes of all animals at the 24th hour. All of the optic nerves underwent biochemical, histopathological and ultrastructural examination. Histopathological and transmission electron-microscopic changes were found to be more prominent in the hypotensive group. We observed decreased superoxide dismutase levels in all groups, but it was more evident in the third group. In comparison to hypertension, hypotension is found to be a more important factor in the development of early degenerative changes.

Use of mitomycin C and 5-fluorouracil in external dacryocystorhinostomy

PURPOSE. To evaluate the effects of antiproliferative agents on the fibrous tissue responsible for the failure of external dacryocystorhinostomy at the site of surgical rhinostomy. METHODS. The study group consisted of 60 cases. Patients with primary acquired idiopathic nasolacrimal duct obstruction were divided into three groups according to the agent used. Each group consisted of 20 patients. Mitomycin C was applied to the first group (0.5 mg/ml to 10, 1 mg/ml to 10 cases) and 5-flourouracil to the second group (2.5 mg/ml to 10, 5 mg/ml to 10 cases). The third group consisted of 20 control cases. The mean follow-up period was 15.3 +/- 2.60 (12-18) months. The tissues obtained during the revision of the cases with failure were evaluated by light and electron microscopic examination. RESULTS. External dacryocystorhinostomy failed in four cases. Of these, one was in the first group (0.5 mg/ml mitomycin C), one in the second group (2.5 mg/ml 5-flourouracil), and two were in the control group. Light microscopic examination of the tissues revealed an increase in fibroblastic activity in the control group whereas hypo- and acellular areas were found to be dominant in the groups given antifibroblastic agents. The control group revealed more active fibroblasts with cytoplasms containing numerous organelles in electron microscopic examination. Electron microscopic examination of the cases given antifibroblastic agents revealed fibroblastic cells with nuclear fragmentation, necrosis or pyknosis, while some others had scanty cytoplasms poor in organelles. CONCLUSION. We can conclude that intraoperative antiproliferative agents improve the success rate of external dacryocystorhinostomy.

Primary pulmonary sarcomas with features of monophasic synovial sarcoma: a clinicopathological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study of 25 cases

We present 25 cases of a primary pulmonary sarcoma bearing histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural features indistinguishable from those of monophasic synovial sarcoma of soft tissue. The patients were 11 men and 14 women between the ages of 16 and 77 years. Clinically, the most common symptoms were chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, and hemoptysis. The lesions involved all lung segments. Grossly, they varied in size from 0.6 to 20 cm and were described as soft to rubbery tumors with areas of necrosis and hemorrhage, some with cystic changes. Two lesions involved the bronchial wall and in one case the tumor was described as encircling the bronchial tree. Histologically, all of the lesions were characterized by an atypical spindle cell proliferation with a solid growth pattern. Areas of myxoid, neural, hemangiopericytic, and epithelial-like growth pattern were observed. Mitoses, necrosis, and hemorrhage were seen in all lesions in varying proportions. Immunohistochemical studies for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and keratin showed strong focal positivity in 25 of 25 and 23 of 25 lesions, respectively. Immunohistochemical study for vimentin showed diffuse strong positivity in all lesions. Other immunostains, including desmin, smooth muscle actin, and S-100 protein, were negative. Electron microscopy in three cases showed spindle cells with elongated nuclei containing abundant cytoplasmic rough endoplasmic reticulum and well developed desmosome type intercellular junctions. Follow-up information ranging from 2 to 20 years was obtained in 18 patients. Six patients died of their tumors, whereas four patients died of unrelated causes without evidence of recurrence or metastases. Eight patients were alive with disease (recurrence and/or metastases) from 1 to 7 years after diagnosis. Four patients were alive and well without evidence of recurrence or metastases from 2 to 20 years (mean follow-up, 12.5 years). The present group of lesions appears to constitute a distinctive and as yet previously undescribed primary sarcoma of the lung, which probably represents the visceral counterpart of monophasic synovial sarcoma of soft tissue in a pulmonary location. Because of their distinctive biology these lesions should be distinguished from a variety of primary and metastatic malignancies of the lung.

Sclerosing hemangioma of the lung. Granulomatous variant

We present a case of granulomatous sclerosing hemangioma of the lung in a 43-year-old white woman in whom a pulmonary nodule was found on a routine chest roentgenogram. Surgical resection of a well-circumscribed pulmonary nodule was performed. Histologically, the tumor showed the typical features of sclerosing hemangioma with the unusual feature of a florid granulomatous reaction. Immunohistochemical studies using antibodies for epithelial membrane antigen decorated the tumoral cells, while factor VIII was positive in the vascular structure. Histochemical stains for microorganisms yielded negative results.

Thymofibrolipoma. A histologic variant of thymolipoma

We report two cases of a thymic neoplasm showing abundant fibroconnective tissue with focal areas of fatty tissue. The two patients, a 9-year-old girl and a 32-year-old man, were found to have an anterior mediastinal mass on routine chest roentgenograms. Surgical resection was performed in both cases. Because of the histologic features shown by these neoplasms, we believe that these cases represent a variant of thymolipoma, and we have named it thymofibrolipoma.