First - line, non - cryopreserved autologous stem cell transplant for poor - risk germ - cell tumors: Experience in a developing country

ABSTRACT Purpose: The current first - line treatment for non - seminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) consists of four cycles of cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin (BEP), which results in 5 - year overall survival < 60% in patients with poor - risk features. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto - HSCT) as a method for overcoming high toxicity after high dose chemotherapy (HDC) has been explored in different solid tumors, but has remained standard practice only for NSGCT. Our objective was to describe outcomes of patients with poor - risk NSGCT who underwent first - line autologous HSCT in a tertiary center in Mexico. Patients and Methods: Twenty nine consecutive patients with NSGCT who received first - line, non - cryopreserved autologous HSCT at the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubiran in Mexico City, Mexico, from November 1998 to June 2016, were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The median age at transplantation was 23 (15 - 39) years. Most patients (n = 18, 62%) had testicular primary tumor, and 23 had metastases (79%). Complete response after auto - HSCT was observed in 45%. Non - relapse mortality was 0. Five - year relapse / progression free and overall survival were 67% and 69%, respectively. Conclusions: This small single limited - resource institution study demonstrated that patients with poor - risk NSGCT are curable by first - line HDC plus autologous HSCT and that this procedure is feasible and affordable to perform using non - cryopreserved hematopoietic stem cells.

Experience in intra-arterial chemotherapy using two protocols for the treatment of OSCC over two decades at the University Hospital Vienna

OBJECTIVES: This retrospective study performed a comprehensive analysis of the usage of intra-arterial chemotherapy (iaCh) for locally recurrent UICC stage IV oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) over two decades at the Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery at the University Hospital Vienna to assess the utility of its future use. METHODS: Between 1994 and 2014, iaCh was indicated in 48 OSCC cases. In these, the two most frequent iaCh schemes, cisplatin/5-fluorouracil (Cis/5-FU) and methotrexate/bleomycin (MTX/Bleo), were chosen for further analysis. The effect on survival of two distinct intra-arterial protocols and their covariates were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method as well as univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 29.91 months. The two intra-arterial chemotherapy groups did not differ significantly in sample size, demographic data or therapeutic covariates. The Cis/5-FU iaCh regimen was associated with significantly better overall survival (median OS 2.6 years vs. 1.3 years; p=0.002) and had a beneficial effect on survival (HR=3.62, p=0.015). Side effects occurred at a frequency similar to that described in the literature for intravenous chemotherapy (ivCh). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest a preference for administering Cis/5-FU for iaCh. Nevertheless, due to economic considerations in healthcare expenditures, there is no future for iaCh in the treatment of head and neck carcinomas because ivCh is known to be equivalent.

Vascular sclerosing effects of bleomycin on cutaneous veins: a pharmacopathologic study on experimental animals

Abstract: Background: Varicose veins and the complications of venous disease are common disorders in humans. Objective: To study the effects of bleomycin as a potential new sclerosing agent and its adverse events in treating varicose veins. Methods: Bleomycin-loaded liposomes 0.1ml was injected in the dorsal ear veins of white New Zealand rabbits. Sodium tetradecyl sulfate was used as a positive control. Normal saline was used as negative control. The blood vessels of the treated ears were photographed before and at one hour and two, eight and 45 days after treatment. Biopsies from the treated areas were obtained for histological examination. Blood samples were collected to determine any possible toxicity. Results: Bleomycin by itself was ineffective; therefore, liposomes were used as a vector to deliver bleomycin to the vein lumen. Subsequently, bleomycin started showing its sclerosing effects. Toxicity monitoring showed no apparent hematologic, pulmonary, hepatic or renal toxicities. This study revealed that bleomycin induced vasculitis, which led to vascular occlusion, which was observed on day 1 and day 8. No bleomycin-related injury was noted by histopathological examination of lung sections. The calculation of the lung/body weight coefficient indicated that edema was present in the experimental groups compared with the negative and positive controls. Study limitations: Relatively small number of experimental animals used. Conclusions: This study showed that bleomycin-loaded liposomes were able to induce vasculitis and vascular occlusion without any toxicity or complications. It might be useful, hence, to treat patients suffering from Varicose veins and other ectatic vascular diseases with this agent.

Excelente respuesta a tratamiento con ABVD en pacientes con linfoma de Hodgkin localizado / Response to ABVD chemotherapeutic protocol in patients with early stage Hodgkin’s lymphoma

Background: Recent trials show that > 90% of patients with early stage Hodgkin`s Lymphoma (ESHL) can be cured, especially when using the ABVD (doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine) chemotherapeutic (CT) protocol. The use of radiotherapy (RT) is variable and can be selected according to the presence of specific risk factors, including PET-CT, as recently reported. Aim: To report the experience in the treatment of ESHL. Material and Methods: Retrospective and descriptive analysis of patients with ESHL treated at the Red de Salud UC-Christus between 2011-2015. Results: Twenty-two patients were treated. In 73%, the tumor was of nodular sclerosis histologic type. Most patients (95%) were in stage II, and 78% had a favorable prognosis according to the Deutsche Hodgkin Studiengruppe (GHSG) criteria. All patients were stratified using PET-CT and treated using the ABVD CT protocol, for 4-6 cycles. Only 5 patients received RT. There was no change of conduct after interim-PET-CT results. Ninety one percent of patients achieved complete response and there were two cases of refractory disease. Both cases underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. After 17 months of median follow-up, 91% of patients are relapse-free, and only one patient died (5%). Conclusions: ABVD offers excellent results for ESHL patients. The benefit of PET-CT should be evaluated with prospective protocols, aiming to select patients needing RT or to reduce the number of CT cycles.

Efficacy of bleomycin for non-operative treatment of cervical lymphangioma in University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Background: Lymphangiomas are the developmental defects of the lymphatic channels, and they are most commonly found in the head and neck regions. Late presentation, rejection of surgery, and traditional scarification result in fatal complications. Surgical excision often thought to give immediate relief and aesthetic results is associated with damage to contiguous structures and recurrence, hence, the need for less invasive treatment modality. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of bleomycin sclerotherapy of cervical lymphangiomas. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study of patients with cervical lymphangioma treated with sclerosant injection between January 2008 and December 2016. Preinjection ultrasound scan and initial ultrasound-guided aspiration of the fluid in the swelling (which many times is multiloculated) using a 20G cannula into a 10 ml syringe were performed. The cannula tip is retained in the space and intralesional injection of double-diluted bleomycin 0.5 i.u./kg body weight was given as outpatient at 2­4-weekly interval. Postinjection events were documented. The clinical assessment of the pre- and postinjection of sclerosant was performed. Result: A total of 23 patients were recruited, and six were females and 17 were males. All swellings were noticed at birth but median time at presentation was 17 days. All patients but one (95.8%) had complete clinical resolution after 1­4 courses of sclerotherapy for 4­16 weeks. Only one patient had residual nodule that required surgical excision. Redundant skin and hyperpigmentation from skin wrinkle were the early effects noticed in three patients; however, these were cosmetically acceptable to the parents. No recurrence was recorded. Conclusion: The treatment of cervical lymphangiomas with intralesional bleomycin injection is shown to be effective. It is safe and associated with no complication. This treatment modality and outcome was found to be acceptable to the parents of these children

Electrochemotherapy as palliative treatment in patients with thyroid papillary carcinoma / Eletroquimioterapia como tratamento paliativo em pacientes com carcinoma papilar da tireoide

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Local progression of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) after failure of standard therapies may cause pain, ulceration, and bleeding. As patients are fully aware of the tumor growth, they might suffer high grade anxiety. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a new local palliative treatment for skin metastases of malignant melanoma or other tumors, including squamous head e neck cancer patients. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of ECT in patients with local progression of PTC. METHODS: Four patients with local progression of PTC were treated with ECT based on Bleomycin, and evaluated according to tumor response, local pain and side effects. RESULTS: In all cases, some grade of tumor response was observed, lasting 6, 7, 12 and 8 months, respectively. Also, reduction of local pain and anxiety was registered in all patients. Tumor infiltrated skin necrosis was the only collateral effect of the treatment. ECT induced a tumor response in all PTC patients with improvement of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: ECT may be an option for local palliative treatment in PTC patients with local tumor progression.

Resumo Introdução: A progressão local do carcinoma papilífero de tireoide (CPT) após a falha da terapia de rotina pode causar dor, ulceração e sangramento. Considerando que os pacientes estão perfeitamente cientes do crescimento tumoral, podem apresentar um alto grau de ansiedade. A eletroquimioterapia (EQT) é um novo tratamento paliativo para metástases de pele de melanoma maligno ou de outros tumores, inclusive em pacientes com carcinoma escamoso de cabeça e pescoço. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da EQT em pacientes com progressão local de CPT. Método: Quatro pacientes com progressão local de CPT foram tratados com EQT com base em bleomicina, e avaliados em relação ao grau de resposta tumoral, dor local, efeitos colaterais. Resultados: Em todos os casos, foi observado algum grau de resposta tumoral, que perdurou por 6, 7, 12 e 8 meses, respectivamente. Da mesma forma, foi registrada diminuição da dor local e da ansiedade em todos os pacientes. Necrose cutânea na infiltração tumoral foi o único efeito colateral do tratamento. EQT induziu resposta tumoral em todos os pacientes com CPT, com melhora dos sintomas. Conclusões: EQT pode ser uma opção para o tratamento paliativo tópico em pacientes com CPT com progressão tumoral local.

Successful Treatment of Orbital Lymphangioma with Intralesional Bleomycin and Application of Continuous Negative Pressure

No abstract available.

Malformación linfática facial mixta: Caso clínico / Mixed facial lymphatic malformation: Case report

Lymphangiomas are a common form of vascular malformation of the lymphatic vessels, mainly in the head and neck region. Most cases are progressive evolution and require a multidisciplinary approach. Currently, the first therapeutic option is sclerotherapy, leaving surgery for the treatment of remaining lesions. Objective: To present a case of facial lymphatic malformation (LM) treated with sclerotherapy, surgery and orthodontics in a 15-year follow up. Case report: A one-year-old female patient who consulted health professionals due to a progressive volume increase of the soft parts of her right cheek. The imaging study confirmed the diagnosis of microcystic lymphatic malformation. It was managed with OK-432 sclerotherapy and Bleomycin. At 2 years of age, the patient response was considered adequate; an intralesional submandibular surgical excision was then performed, with partial resection of the lesion. The biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of microcystic LM. Six months after, a re-resection was planned using the same approach and removing the remaining lesion, with favorable development until the age of 9 years when the patient required surgery and orthodontic management due to intraoral recurrence. No major developments until the age of 13 when a new orthodontic surgery and handling are planned to perform right oral commissure suspension. Conclusion: LM management by sclerotherapy, surgery, and orthodontics has shown the advantages of a multidisciplinary long-term treatment in this case.

El linfangioma corresponde a una malformación vascular de los vasos linfáticos, preferentemente de la región de cabeza y cuello. La mayoría de los casos son de evolución progresiva y requieren un manejo multidisciplinario. Actualmente la primera opción terapéutica es la esclerosis, reservando la cirugía para el tratamiento de las lesiones remanentes. Objetivo: Presentar un caso de malformación linfática (ML) facial, tratado con escleroterapia, cirugía y ortodoncia en un seguimiento a 15 años. Caso clínico: Paciente de sexo femenino que consulta al año de edad por aumento de volumen progresivo de partes blandas en su mejilla derecha. El estudio de imágenes confirmó el diagnóstico de Malformación Linfática microquística. Se manejó con esclerosis seriada con OK-432 y Bleomicina. A los 2 años de edad se consideró que la respuesta era adecuada, y se procedió a realizar extirpación quirúrgica intralesional submandibular, con resección parcial de la lesión. La biopsia confirmó el diagnóstico de ML microquística. Seis meses después se planificó nueva resección utilizando el mismo abordaje y extirpando lesión remanente, con evolución favorable hasta la edad de 9 años en que requiere cirugía y manejo por ortodoncia, por recidiva de lesión a nivel intraoral. Evolución favorable hasta que a la edad de 13 años se planifica nueva cirugía y manejo por ortodoncia para suspender la comisura bucal derecha. Conclusión: El manejo de la ML mediante escleroterapia, cirugía, y ortodoncia muestra en este caso las ventajas de un tratamiento multidisciplinarion a largo plazo.

Effect of early treatment with transcutaneous electrical diaphragmatic stimulation (TEDS) on pulmonary inflammation induced by bleomycin / Efeito do tratamento precoce com estimulacao diafragmatica eletrica transcutanea (EDET) na inflamacao pulmonar provocada pela Bleomicina

BACKGROUND : Bleomycin (B) is an antineoplastic drug that has pulmonary fibrosis as a side effect. There are few experimental studies about the effects of physical therapy treatment in this case. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to study rat lungs treated with B and precocious intervention by transcutaneous electrical diaphragmatic stimulation (TEDS). METHOD : Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (n=5): a control group (C); a stimulated group (TEDS); a group treated with a single dose of B (intratracheally, 2.5 mg/kg) (B); and a group treated with B and electric stimulation (B + TEDS). After the B instillation, the electrical stimulation was applied for 7 days, for a duration of 20 minutes. Lung fragments were histologically processed with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and 8-isoprostane-PGF2α (8-iso-PGF2α). The density of the alveolar area was determined by planimetry, the inflammatory profile was defined by the number of cells, and the level of oxidative stress in the pulmonary tissue was evaluated by 8-iso-PGF2α. For statistical analysis of the data, the Shapiro-Wilk test was used, followed by a one-way ANOVA with the post-hoc Bonferroni test (p≤0.05). RESULTS : The B group exhibited a significant reduction in the area density, and the acute treatment with B + TEDS prevented this reduction. There were increased numbers of fibroblasts, leukocytes, and macrophages in the B group, as well as increased lipid peroxidation, which was observed only in this group. CONCLUSION : B promoted a reduction in the alveolar density area, thereby inducing the inflammatory process and increasing the production of free radicals. These effects were minimized by the application of TEDS at the initial treatment stage. .

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: A bleomicina é um antineoplásico que tem como efeito colateral fibrose pulmonar. Há poucos estudos experimentais dos efeitos do tratamento fisioterapêutico nesse quadro. OBJETIVO: Estudar pulmões de ratos tratados com bleomicina e intervenção precoce com estimulação diafragmática elétrica transcutânea (EDET). MÉTODO: Ratos Wistar foram divididos em quatro grupos (n=5): controle; estimulado; tratado com dose única de bleomicina 2,5 mg/Kg, via intratraqueal, e tratado com bleomicina e estimulação elétrica 24 horas após a instilação da bleomicina, durante sete dias, por 20 minutos. Fragmentos de pulmão foram tratados para coloração em hematoxilina e eosina (HE) e 8-isoprostane-PGF2α (8-iso-PGF2 α). A densidade de área alveolar foi obtida por planimetria; o perfil inflamatório, por quantificação do número de células, e os níveis de estresse oxidativo no tecido pulmonar, pela análise do marcador 8-iso-PGF2 α. Utilizou-se teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk seguido de ANOVA one-way+Bonferroni (p<0,05). RESULTADOS: O tratamento com bleomicina promoveu redução significativa na densidade de área da parte aérea, e o tratamento agudo de bleomicina associado com a EDET evitou essa redução. Houve aumento no número de fibroblastos, leucócitos e macrófagos e aumento da peroxidação lipídica no grupo tratado com bleomicina, fato não encontrado no grupo bleomicina+EDET. CONCLUSÃO: A bleomicina promoveu diminuição na densidade de área alveolar por induzir processo inflamatório e aumento na produção de radicais livres, efeitos esses minimizados com a intervenção da EDET na fase precoce do tratamento. .

Results of a combination of bleomycin and triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars / Resultados de uma combinação de bleomicina e triamcinolone acetonide no tratamento de quelóides e cicatrizes hipertróficas

While treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars normally shows modest results, we found that treatment with bleomycin was more promising. The present study was divided into two parts. In the first part the aim was to show the results using a combination of bleomycin and triamcinolone acetonide per cm2 (BTA). In the second part the objective was to determine the response to both drugs in large keloids that were divided into 1 cm2 squares, treating each square with the dose previously used. In the first part of the study, the clinical response of 37 keloids ranging from 0.3 to 1.8 cm2 treated with BTA were followed up over a period of 1- 2 years. 0.375 IU bleomycin and 4 mg triamcinolone acetonide were injected every 3 months. In the second part of the study we reviewed the clinical response in six patients with large keloids. The monthly dose administered never exceeded 3 IU of bleomycin. The first study showed 36 keloids (97.29%) softening after the first dose. In the second study, 5 showed different responses (the response was complete in the four smaller keloids). The largest keloid needed 9 doses to achieve an improvement of 70%. In conclusion, combined treatment with 0.375 IU of bleomycin and 4mg of triamcinolone acetonide to 1 cm2 was considered to be an acceptable procedure for the treatment of keloids. The best results were obtained in keloids over 1 cm2 or when divided into 1 cm2 square areas. Larger series need to be performed in order to confirm these results..

Enquanto normalmente o tratamento de queloides e cicatrizes hipertróficas mostra resultados moderados, o tratamento com bleomicina revelou resultados mais promissores. Este estudo foi dividido em duas partes. Na primeira parte, o objetivo foi mostrar os resultados da utilização de uma combinação de bleomicina e acetonido de triancinolona por cm2 (BAT). Na segunda parte, o objetivo foi determinar a resposta aos dois medicamentos em queloides grandes, que foram divididos em quadrados de 1 cm2, tratando cada quadrado com a dose utilizada anteriormente. Na primeira parte do estudo, a resposta clínica de 37 queloides de 0,3 to 1,8 cm2 tratados com BAT foi monitorada por um período de 1 a 2 anos. Injeções de 0,375 UI de bleomicina e 4 mg de acetonido de triancinolona foram aplicadas a cada 3 meses. Na segunda parte do estudo, revisamos a resposta clínica em 6 pacientes com queloides grandes. A dose mensal administrada nunca excedeu 3 UI de bleomicina. O primeiro estudo mostrou que 36 queloides (97,29%) amoleceram após a primeira dose. No segundo estudo, 5 mostraram diferentes respostas (a resposta foi completa nos quatro queloides menores). O queloide maior necessitou de 9 doses para apresentar melhora de 70%. Concluindo, o tratamento combinado com 0,375 UI de bleomicina e 4 mg de acetonido de triancinolona por cm2foi considerado um procedimento aceitável para o tratamento de queloides. Os melhores resultados foram obtidos em queloides com mais de 1 cm2 ou divididos em áreas de 1cm2. Estudos mais amplos deveriam ser realizados, para confirmar esses resultados.

Image-Guided Percutaneous Lipiodol-Pingyangmycin Suspension Injection Therapy for Sacral Chordoma

A 74-year-old man presented with a progressively worsening pain in sacrum and was diagnosed to have a sacral chordoma by biopsy in May, 2004. Percutaneous intratumoral injection with lipiodol-pingyangmycin suspension (LPS) was carried out under image guidance and repeated when the pain in sacrum recurred and the tumor increased. During a 6-year follow-up period, three sessions of this treatment were executed. CT imaging and Karnofsky Performance Score were used to evaluate the size of tumor and quality of life, respectively. The patient was free of pain after each procedure and had a high quality of life with a Karnofsky Performance Score above 80 points. The tumor lesion in sacral area was effectively controlled. No complications were observed. Percutaneous intratumoral injection with LPS under image guidance may be an effective and safe alternative for the patients with sacral chordoma.

Intralesional bleomycin for the treatment of periocular capillary hemangiomas.

Periocular infantile capillary hemangiomas do not always respond well to conventional treatment modalities such as systemic or intralesional corticosteroids, radiotherapy or debulking surgery. The authors describe the use of intralesional bleomycin injections (IBIs) to treat potentially amblyogenic lesions in two cases where other modalities have failed. In both cases monthly IBIs successfully cleared the visual axis of the affected eye before the age of 1 year thus preventing permanent sensory deprivation amblyopia. A total of five and nine injections, respectively, were used and no significant side effects were noted. IBI appears to be a useful alternative in the treatment of periocular capillary hemangiomas refractory to more conventional modalities.

Povidone-iodine versus bleomycin pleurodesis for malignant effusion in bronchogenic cancer guided by thoracic echography

This study was designed to compare effectiveness of intra-pleural instillation of bleomycin with instillation of povidone-iodine for control of malignant pleural effusion among patients with non-small cell lung cancer, guided by results of thoracic echography. Fifty one patients had the possibility of full lung expansion. Drainage of the effusion was followed by instillation of bleomycin or povidone- iodine through the thoracostomy tube. Four weeks after discharge, thoracic echography was performed and repeated 4 weeks later. Follow-up ranged between 4-32 months [mean: 21 + 3.5 months]. We received 79 patients with malignant pleural effusion as stage IV non-small cell lung cancer during the last four years. Seventeen patients had centrally-located tumors with persistent lung atelectasis. lntra-pleural injection of streptokinase to breakdown intra-pleural fibrinous adhesions, was carried out in 9 cases; and was successful in 6 cases 66% [6/9]. Finally, 54 patients had an evidence of possible lung expansion but three died before pleurodesis. Thus, 51 patients received intrapleural instillation of bleomycin or povidone-iodine in a randomized prospective comparative study. Among bleomycin group [no.=26]. echography showed excellent pleurodesis [no.= 21], effective pleurodesis [no.= 2] with one or two areas of free mobility and one area of fluid component, weak pleurodesis [no.= 3] with three areas of free lung movement [lung sliding sign] and areas of fluid component. Among povidone-iodine group [no.=25] excellent pleurodesis [no.=20], effective [no.=2] and weak pleurodesis.[no.=3]. The six cases with weak pleurodesis in both groups were those who had streptokinase before pleurodesis. Complications and hospital stay were comparable for both groups. Chest x-ray proved recurrence of effusion in the six cases with weak pleurodesis after symptom-free intervals that varied between 4 and 6 weeks among these 6 patients. Both bleomycin and povidone-iodine produced comparable excellent and effective pleurodesis among patients with malignant pleural effusion. The cost is much lower with povidone-iodine.

Non invasive management of haemangioma using intralesional bleomycin injection [IBI]

Vascular anomalies like haemangiomas are among the most common forms of congenital and neonatal dysmorphogenesis. Various treatment regimens have been documented including laser therapy, sclerotherapy, embolization, surgical resection or sometimes combination of these. Percutaneous sclerotherapy was developed as a minimally invasive treatment modality for these lesions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of intra-lesional bleomycin injection [IBI] in management of haemangiomas as a sclerosing therapy. 45 patients [29 female and 16 male] aged [6 months - 3 years] presented with haemangioma were studied between August 2007 and February 2012. Patients were subjected to IBI and its effect was evaluated. Patients under six months of age or with recurrent haemangioma were excluded from the study. Complete resolution [excellent] in 27 patients [60%], marked improvement [good] in 10 patients [22.2%], mild improvement [fair] in 6 patients [13.3%] and poor in 2 patients [4.4%]. Complications were recorded in 13 [28.7%] of patients. Local complications were pain and swelling in 6 [13.3%], superficial ulceration in 4 [8.8%] and scaring in 1 [2.2%]. Systemic complication in the form of flu-like symptoms was recorded in 2 [4.4%] of patients. None of the patients presented with haematological toxic effects or signs of pulmonary involvement. During the follow up period [6 to 18 months] all treated cases did not have re-enlargement or recurrence of their lesions. IBI is an effective treatment in haemnangiomas. It obviates the need for invasive primary surgery or other systemic treatment regimens

Malformaciones linfáticas: tratamiento percutáneo con bleomicina / Lymphatic malformations: percutaneus treatment with bleomycin

Las malformaciones linfáticas son anomalías del desarrollo del sistema linfático que tienden a sufrir complicaciones en su evolución. En la última década, la terapia con agentes esclerosantes ha ido ganando popularidad sobre la cirugía, por su eficacia, sus menores complicaciones y sus excelentes resultados estéticos. Presentamos una serie de 24 pacientes tratados mediante esclerosis percutánea con bleomicina. Los resultados fueron excelentes (reducción de volumen ≥ 95% y asintomáticos) en 12 pacientes, buenos (reducción de volumen entre 50% y 95% y asintomáticos) en 5 pacientes, regulares (reducción de volumen < 50% y asintomáticos) en 4 pacientes, y malos (sin cambios de volumen respecto al inicio o sin desaparición de síntomas iniciales) en 3 pacientes. Estos resultados estuvieron directamente relacionados con el tipo de malformación. Las complicaciones observadas fueron de escasa relevancia clínica. La escleroterapia con bleomicina es un método eficaz y seguro en el tratamiento de pacientes con malformación linfática uniquística o macroquística. Su indicación también podría extenderse a pacientes con malformación linfática microquística o cavernosa que serán sometidos a cirugía, para obtener una reducción de su tamaño y menor linforragia postoperatoria, y a pacientes postquirúrgicos sintomáticos, en quienes no fue posible la resección total de la malformación.

Lymphatic malformations are developmental abnormalities of the lymphatic system, which tend to complicate during their evolution. In the last decade, therapy with sclerosing agents has gained popularity over surgery due to its effectiveness, fewer complications, and excellent cosmetic results. We present a series of 24 patients treated with percutaneous bleomycin injection. Results were excellent (volume reduction ≥ 95%, without symptoms) in 12 patients, good (volume reduction between 50% and 95%, without symptoms) in 5 patients, fair (volume reduction <50%, without symptoms) in 4 patients, and poor (no change in volume from baseline and persistence of symptoms) in 3 patients. These results were directly related to the type of lymphatic malformation. The complications found had little clinical relevance. Sclerotherapy with bleomycin is an effective and safe treatment for patients with unicystic or macrocystic lymphatic malformations. It could also be used in patients with microcystic or cavernous lymphatic malformation undergoing surgery to reduce both the malformation size and postoperative lymphorrhea, and in postoperative symptomatic patients whose malformation could not be totally resected.

Long-Term Survivals of Stage IIB Osteosarcoma: A 20-Year Experience in a Single Institution

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with stage IIB osteosarcoma at a single institution for 20 years and to compare the results according to the chemotherapy protocols. METHODS: From Jan 1988 to Nov 2008, 167 patients with osteosarcoma were treated at our hospital and among them, 117 patients (67 males and 50 females) with stage IIB osteosarcoma were evaluable. Their mean age was 22.6 years (range, 8 months to 71 years). Seventy-eight cases underwent the modified T10 (M-T10) protocol (group 1), 23 cases underwent the T20 protocol (group 2) and 16 cases underwent the T12 protocol (group 3). The DFS and OS were calculated and compared according to the chemotherapy protocols. RESULTS: At a mean follow-up of 78.9 months, 63 patients were continuously disease-free (63/117), 6 patients were alive after having metastatic lesions, 7 patients died of other cause and 41 patients died of their disease. The 5- and 10-year OS rates were 60.2% and 44.8%, respectively and the 5- and 10-year DFS rates were 53.5% and 41.4%, respectively. There was no significant difference of the OS and DFS between the chemotherapy protocols (p = 0.692, p = 0.113). CONCLUSIONS: At present, we achieved success rates close to the internationally accepted DFS and OS. We were able to achieve the higher survival rates using the M-T10 protocol over the 20 years. However, there was no significant difference of results between the chemotherapy protocols. We think the M-T10 protocol will achieve more favorable results in the near future.

Development of Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukemia with Isochromosome (12p) after a Primary Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumor in Korea

The association of hematological malignancies with a mediastinal germ cell tumor (GCT) is very rare. We report one case of a young adult male with primary mediastinal GCT who subsequently developed acute megakaryoblastic leukemia involving isochromosome (12p). A 25-yr-old man had been diagnosed with a mediastinal GCT and underwent surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy. At 1 week after the last cycle of chemotherapy, his peripheral blood showed leukocytosis with blasts. A bone marrow study confirmed the acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. A cytogenetic study revealed a complex karyotype with i(12p). Although additional chemotherapy was administered, the patient could not attain remission and died of septic shock. This case was definitely distinct from therapy-related secondary leukemia in terms of clinical, morphologic, and cytogenetic features. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a patient with mediastinal GCT subsequently developing acute megakaryoblastic leukemia involving i(12p) in Korea.

Pulmonary Toxicity after a Quick Course of Combinatorial Vincristine, Bleomycin, and Cisplatin Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Cervical Cancer

Pulmonary toxicity is one of the most serious adverse effects associated with a quick course of vincristine, bleomycin, and cisplatin neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC-VBP). The aim of this study was to evaluate pulmonary toxicity related to a quick course NAC-VBP. A total of consecutive 61 patients, who underwent at most 3 cycles of NAC-VBP every 10 days in the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB-IIB cervical cancer from 1995 to 2007, were retrospectively analyzed. Of the 61 study subjects, 7 (11.5%) were identified to have pulmonary toxicity and 2 (3.3%) died of pulmonary fibrosis progression despite aggressive treatment and the use of a multidisciplinary approach. No factor predisposing pulmonary toxicity was identified. Initial symptoms were non-specific, but bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia and interstitial pneumonitis were characteristic findings by high-resolution computed tomography of the chest. The benefit of steroid therapy was uncertain and was associated with steroid-induced diabetes mellitus requiring insulin therapy in two patients. Fatal pulmonary toxicity is a major concern of a quick course NAC-VBP. In conclusion, these patients require special monitoring for bleomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity.

Influência do CD 20 na refratariedade do linfoma de Hodgkin clássico ao tratamento inicial com o esquema ABVD, no Ceará, Brasil / Influence of CD 20 antigen expression in the refractoriness of classical Hodgkin lymphoma in the first line treatment with ABVD protocol in Ceará state, Brazil

INTRODUÇÃO: A significância prognóstica do marcador imunológico CD 20 no linfoma de Hodgkin clássico (LHc) ainda é incerta, particularmente no que se refere à refratariedade ao tratamento inicial. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a influência da positividade do marcador CD 20 na refratariedade do LHc ao tratamento poliquimioterápico inicial, com o esquema doxorubicina 25 mg/m², bleomicina 10 mg/m², vinblastina 6 mg/m² e dacarbazina 375 mg/m² (ABVD), no Ceará, Brasil. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Estudo analítico incluindo 97 pacientes com diagnóstico de LHc firmado entre janeiro de 2000 e dezembro de 2004. A análise foi realizada avaliando variáveis demográficas, clínicas e laboratoriais. RESULTADOS: Foi evidenciada uma positividade do CD 20 em 38,1 por cento dos pacientes. Na análise bivariada, CD 20 positivo (razão de chance [RC] = 4,02; intervalo de confiança [IC] = 1,09 - 8,54; p = 0,02), a presença de sintomas B (RC = 4,02; IC = 1,18-17,51; p = 0,01) e a elevação da desidrogenase lática (mediana não-refratários 248,5 [200,5 - 389,5]; mediana refratários 356 [208,5 - 545]; p = 0,03) apresentaram relação de pior prognóstico quanto à refratariedade. Na regressão logística, o CD 20 positivo (RC ajustada = 3,6; IC = 0,99 - 13,09; p = 0,05) e a presença de sintomas B (RC ajustada = 5,41; IC = 1,16 - 25,34; p = 0,03) continuaram apresentando pior prognóstico. DISCUSSÃO: Esses dados coincidem com a literatura, em que a positividade do marcador CD 20 está relacionada com pior resposta ao tratamento com ABVD. CONCLUSÃO: Os nossos dados indicam que o tratamento com ABVD não é completamente adequado para a abordagem terapêutica inicial deste subgrupo de pacientes e novas pesquisas precisam ser realizadas no sentido de aperfeiçoar o tratamento destes pacientes.

INTRODUCTION: The prognostic value of CD20 antigen expression in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is uncertain, particularly regarding the refractoriness to first-line treatment. OBJECTIVES: To assess the influence of CD20 positiveness on the refractoriness of cHL to first-line chemotherapy with ABVD protocol in Ceará State, Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Analytical study including 97 patients diagnosed with cHL between January/2000 and December/2004. The analysis was performed evaluating demographic, clinical and laboratory variables. RESULTS: CD20 antigen expression was positive in 38.1 percent of the patients. In the bivariate analysis, CD20 antigen expression (OR = 4.02; CI = 1.09 - 8.54; p = 0.02), the presence of B-symptoms (OR = 4.02; CI = 1.18-17.51; p = 0.01) and an elevated lactate dehydrogenase level (median not refractory 248.5 [200.5 - 389.5]; median refractory 356 [208.5-545]; p = 0.03) showed worse prognosis as to refractoriness. In the logistic regression analysis, the presence of CD 20 (OR = 3.6; CI = 0.99-13.09; p = 0.05) and B-symptoms (OR = 5.41; CI = 1.16-25.34; p = 0.03) continued to show worse prognosis. DISCUSSION: These findings coincide with literature data indicating that CD 20 antigen expression is associated with low response to treatment with ABVD. CONCLUSION: Our data show that the treatment with ABVD is not totally appropriate for the initial therapeutic approach in this subgroup of patients and that further studies are required to optimize their treatment.