Pituitary Metastasis Clinical Presentation of Diabetes Insipidus Six Years after Invasive Breast Carcinoma Diagnosis: Case Report

Breast carcinomas are the major cause of death in women with cancer worldwide, mainly in metastatic cases. The pituitary gland stands for only 6-8% of the secondary sites of distant metastasis and it is usually asymptomatic. When symptomatic, these lesions can mimic primary pituitary diseases. Case report: A 43-year-old woman underwent a left mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection in April 2013 due to a luminal, invasive ductal carcinoma with nodal metastasis. Six years later, she started complaining of myalgia, bone pain, dizziness and decreased visual acuity, in addition to polydipsia and polyuria. Laboratory tests showed hyperprolactinemia and diabetes insipidus suggestive of panhypopituitarism. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed a sellar tumor with extension to adjacent structures which was removed on November 2019. A pathology report of an epithelial neoplasm of unknown origin and an immunohistochemical study showed positivity for estrogen, progesterone receptors and GATA 3, and negativity for pituitary hormones. This set of findings and the histological morphology were consistent with a metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma of mammary origin without HER-2 overexpression. The patient underwent ovarian ablation, central nervous system radiotherapy, chemotherapy and oncological follow-up. Conclusion: The patient's young age and clinical presentation of visual impairment and sudden development of diabetes insipidus diverges from the current data, since these findings are usually present in asymptomatic women over sixty-years-old. The varied clinical presentation can lead to a delay in diagnosis of pituitary metastasis, which reinforces the importance of reporting cases like this

O carcinoma mamário é a maior causa de morte por câncer em mulheres no mundo, majoritariamente nos casos metastáticos. A hipófise configura apenas 6-8% dos sítios metastáticos a distância, e geralmente são assintomáticos. Quando sintomáticos, podem mimetizar uma doença primária dessa glândula. Relato do caso: Mulher, 43 anos, submetida à mastectomia com esvaziamento axilar à esquerda em abril de 2013 por carcinoma mamário ductal invasivo, luminal, com metástase linfonodal. Seis anos depois, iniciou com queixa de mialgia, dor óssea, tontura e piora progressiva de acuidade visual, além de polidipsia e poliúria. Exames laboratoriais evidenciaram hiperprolactinemia e diabetes insipidus sugerindo pan-hipopituitarismo. A ressonância magnética de encéfalo demonstrou tumor selar com extensão a estruturas adjacentes que foi ressecado em novembro de 2019, com laudo de neoplasia epitelial de origem indeterminada, sendo necessário estudo imuno-histoquímico para elucidação diagnóstica. Houve positividade para o receptor de estrógeno, progesterona e GATA 3 e negatividade para hormônios hipofisários. Esse conjunto de achados e a morfologia histológica foram condizentes com adenocarcinoma mucinoso metastático de origem mamária, sem hiperexpressão de HER-2. A paciente foi submetida à ablação ovariana, radioterapia em sistema nervoso central, quimioterapia e a acompanhamento oncológico. Conclusão: A idade, a apresentação clínica de comprometimento visual e o desenvolvimento de diabetes insipidus repentino destoam dos dados da literatura, uma vez que estes costumam estar associados a mulheres acima dos 60 anos e assintomáticas. Essa apresentação clínica diversificada pode levar a um atraso no diagnóstico da metástase hipofisária, o que reforça a importância de relatar casos como este.

Los carcinomas de mama son la principal causa de muerte en mujeres con cáncer en todo el mundo, principalmente en casos metastásicos. La glándula pituitaria representa solo el 6-8% de los sitios secundarios de metástasis a distancia y generalmente es asintomática. Cuando son sintomáticas, estas lesiones pueden imitar enfermedades pituitarias primarias. Informe de caso: Mujer, 43 años, se sometió a una mastectomía izquierda con disección de ganglios linfáticos axilares en abril de 2013 debido a un carcinoma de mama ductal invasivo luminal con metástasis ganglionar. Seis años después, comenzó a quejarse de mialgia, dolor óseo, mareos y disminución de la agudeza visual, además de polidipsia y poliuria. Los análisis de laboratorio revelaron hiperprolactinemia y diabetes insípida, lo que sugiere un cuadro de panhipopituitarismo. La resonancia magnética cerebral mostró un tumor de la silla turca con extensión a estructuras adyacentes, que se extirpó en noviembre de 2019. Un informe patológico indicó una neoplasia epitelial de origen desconocido, y ha sido necesario un estudio inmunohistoquímico para dilucidar, que se mostró positivo para los receptores de estrógeno, progesterona y GATA 3, y negativo para las hormonas pituitarias. Este conjunto de hallazgos y la morfología histológica fueron consistentes con un adenocarcinoma mucinoso metastásico de origen mamario sin superexpresión de HER-2. La paciente se sometió a ablación ovárica, radioterapia del sistema nervioso central, quimioterapia y seguimiento oncológico. Conclusión: La edad de la paciente y la presentación clínica de deterioro visual y desarrollo repentino de diabetes insípida difieren de los datos actuales, ya que estos hallazgos suelen estar presentes en mujeres asintomáticas mayores de 60 años. Una variada presentación clínica puede retrasar el diagnóstico de metástasis pituitaria, lo que refuerza la importancia de informar casos como este.

Pituitary Metastasis Clinical Presentation of Diabetes Insipidus Six Years after Invasive Breast Carcinoma Diagnosis: Case Report / Apresentação Clínica de Metástase Hipofisária com Diabetes Insipidus Seis Anos após o Diagnóstico de Carcinoma Mamário Invasivo: Relato de Caso / Presentación Clínica de Metástasis Hipofisaria con Diabetes Insípida Seis Años después del Diagnóstico de Carcinoma Mamario Invasivo: Informe de Caso

Introduction: Breast carcinomas are the major cause of death in women with cancer worldwide, mainly in metastatic cases. The pituitary gland stands for only 6-8% of the secondary sites of distant metastasis and it is usually asymptomatic. When symptomatic, these lesions can mimic primary pituitary diseases. Case report: A 43-year-old woman underwent a left mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection in April 2013 due to a luminal, invasive ductal carcinoma with nodal metastasis. Six years later, she started complaining of myalgia, bone pain, dizziness and decreased visual acuity, in addition to polydipsia and polyuria. Laboratory tests showed hyperprolactinemia and diabetes insipidus suggestive of panhypopituitarism. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed a sellar tumor with extension to adjacent structures which was removed on November 2019. A pathology report of an epithelial neoplasm of unknown origin and an immunohistochemical study showed positivity for estrogen, progesterone receptors and GATA 3, and negativity for pituitary hormones. This set of findings and the histological morphology were consistent with a metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma of mammary origin without HER-2 overexpression. The patient underwent ovarian ablation, central nervous system radiotherapy, chemotherapy and oncological follow-up. Conclusion: The patient's young age and clinical presentation of visual impairment and sudden development of diabetes insipidus diverges from the current data, since these findings are usually present in asymptomatic women over sixty-years-old. The varied clinical presentation can lead to a delay in diagnosis of pituitary metastasis, which reinforces the importance of reporting cases like this.

Introdução: O carcinoma mamário é a maior causa de morte por câncer em mulheres no mundo, majoritariamente nos casos metastáticos. A hipófise configura apenas 6-8% dos sítios metastáticos a distância, e geralmente são assintomáticos. Quando sintomáticos, podem mimetizar uma doença primária dessa glândula. Relato do caso: Mulher, 43 anos, submetida à mastectomia com esvaziamento axilar à esquerda em abril de 2013 por carcinoma mamário ductal invasivo, luminal, com metástase linfonodal. Seis anos depois, iniciou com queixa de mialgia, dor óssea, tontura e piora progressiva de acuidade visual, além de polidipsia e poliúria. Exames laboratoriais evidenciaram hiperprolactinemia e diabetes insipidus sugerindo pan-hipopituitarismo. A ressonância magnética de encéfalo demonstrou tumor selar com extensão a estruturas adjacentes que foi ressecado em novembro de 2019, com laudo de neoplasia epitelial de origem indeterminada, sendo necessário estudo imuno-histoquímico para elucidação diagnóstica. Houve positividade para o receptor de estrógeno, progesterona e GATA 3 e negatividade para hormônios hipofisários. Esse conjunto de achados e a morfologia histológica foram condizentes com adenocarcinoma mucinoso metastático de origem mamária, sem hiperexpressão de HER-2. A paciente foi submetida à ablação ovariana, radioterapia em sistema nervoso central, quimioterapia e a acompanhamento oncológico. Conclusão: A idade, a apresentação clínica de comprometimento visual e o desenvolvimento de diabetes insipidus repentino destoam dos dados da literatura, uma vez que estes costumam estar associados a mulheres acima dos 60 anos e assintomáticas. Essa apresentação clínica diversificada pode levar a um atraso no diagnóstico da metástase hipofisária, o que reforça a importância de relatar casos como este.

Introducción: Los carcinomas de mama son la principal causa de muerte en mujeres con cáncer en todo el mundo, principalmente en casos metastásicos. La glándula pituitaria representa solo el 6-8% de los sitios secundarios de metástasis a distancia y generalmente es asintomática. Cuando son sintomáticas, estas lesiones pueden imitar enfermedades pituitarias primarias. Informe de caso: Mujer, 43 años, se sometió a una mastectomía izquierda con disección de ganglios linfáticos axilares en abril de 2013 debido a un carcinoma de mama ductal invasivo luminal con metástasis ganglionar. Seis años después, comenzó a quejarse de mialgia, dolor óseo, mareos y disminución de la agudeza visual, además de polidipsia y poliuria. Los análisis de laboratorio revelaron hiperprolactinemia y diabetes insípida, lo que sugiere un cuadro de panhipopituitarismo. La resonancia magnética cerebral mostró un tumor de la silla turca con extensión a estructuras adyacentes, que se extirpó en noviembre de 2019. Un informe patológico indicó una neoplasia epitelial de origen desconocido, y ha sido necesario un estudio inmunohistoquímico para dilucidar, que se mostró positivo para los receptores de estrógeno, progesterona y GATA 3, y negativo para las hormonas pituitarias. Este conjunto de hallazgos y la morfología histológica fueron consistentes con un adenocarcinoma mucinoso metastásico de origen mamario sin superexpresión de HER-2. La paciente se sometió a ablación ovárica, radioterapia del sistema nervioso central, quimioterapia y seguimiento oncológico. Conclusión: La edad de la paciente y la presentación clínica de deterioro visual y desarrollo repentino de diabetes insípida difieren de los datos actuales, ya que estos hallazgos suelen estar presentes en mujeres asintomáticas mayores de 60 años. Una variada presentación clínica puede retrasar el diagnóstico de metástasis pituitaria, lo que refuerza la importancia de informar casos como este.

Abdominal wall endometriosis: Report of 83 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical course and management of abdominal wall endometriosis (AWE). METHODS: A retrospective study was carried out from January 2010 to December 2020, at Vita-Nações Hospitals, Curitiba, Brazil, in order to evaluate data of patients undergoing surgery for the excision of AWE. RESULTS: 83 women with AWE were included in the study. Umbilical scar endometriosis was found in 26 patients (31.3%), being primary in 20 cases (76.9%) and secondary to a laparoscopic procedure in 6 cases (23.1%). 2 patients had secondary implants outside the umbilicus after laparoscopic surgery. Secondary implant after cesarian section in 55 patients (66.3%). Diagnosis was made by ultrasound in 65 patients (78.3%) and by MRI in the remaining 18 (21.7%). Complete excision of the nodule was carried out and no case of recurrence was registered up to now. CONCLUSIONS: Painful abdominal mass presenting in women, especially with a previous history of abdominal and pelvic surgery, should be suspected of AWE. It occurs most often secondary to obstetric or gynecological surgeries and seems to be related to iatrogenic transfer of the endometrial tissue at the level of the surgical scar. Cesarean scar endometriosis is the most common presentation. Surgical excision including the surrounding fibrotic tissue should be performed.

Assessment of Nerve Fiber Density and Expression of Hormonal Receptors Within Rectosigmoid Endometriosis Nodules.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To assess nerve fiber density and expression of hormone receptors in bowel endometriosis. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Private hospital. PATIENTS: Women with endometriosis undergoing laparoscopic segmental bowel resection (n = 54). INTERVENTIONS: Tissue samples were obtained from patients with surgically treated rectosigmoid endometriosis. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The rectosigmoid specimen containing the endometriosis nodule was manually sectioned and divided into 3 areas: core of the nodule, margin of the nodule, and healthy bowel tissue. The intensity of expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and measured according to the Allred score. Nerve fibers were stained by immunohistochemistry using Protein Gene Product 9.5, and the density of nerve fillets was counted and expressed in number/mm². All glandular and stromal cells stained for estrogen; however, glandular cells stained more strongly than stromal cells (61.1% vs 35.2%; p = .01). Most of glandular and stromal cells stained strongly for progesterone receptors (90.7% vs 98.1%; p = .2). The density of nerve fibers was very high in the margin of the nodule (172.22±45.66/mm²), moderate in healthy bowel tissue (111.48±48.57/mm²), and very low in the core of the nodule (7.31±4.9/mm²); p = .01. CONCLUSION: Both glandular and stromal cells within the rectosigmoid endometriosis nodule express estrogen and progesterone receptors. Higher intensity of expression of estrogen receptors occurs in glandular cells. The density of nerve fibers is extremely high at the nodule margin and very low in the center of the nodule.

Bacterial Small RNAs in the Genus Herbaspirillum spp.

The genus Herbaspirillum includes several strains isolated from different grasses. The identification of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the genus Herbaspirillum is an important stage studying the interaction of these molecules and the way they modulate physiological responses of different mechanisms, through RNA⁻RNA interaction or RNA⁻protein interaction. This interaction with their target occurs through the perfect pairing of short sequences (cis-encoded ncRNAs) or by the partial pairing of short sequences (trans-encoded ncRNAs). However, the companion Hfq can stabilize interactions in the trans-acting class. In addition, there are Riboswitches, located at the 5' end of mRNA and less often at the 3' end, which respond to environmental signals, high temperatures, or small binder molecules. Recently, CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats), in prokaryotes, have been described that consist of serial repeats of base sequences (spacer DNA) resulting from a previous exposure to exogenous plasmids or bacteriophages. We identified 285 ncRNAs in Herbaspirillum seropedicae (H. seropedicae) SmR1, expressed in different experimental conditions of RNA-seq material, classified as cis-encoded ncRNAs or trans-encoded ncRNAs and detected RNA riboswitch domains and CRISPR sequences. The results provide a better understanding of the participation of this type of RNA in the regulation of the metabolism of bacteria of the genus Herbaspirillum spp.

A Case of Primary Uterina Lymphoma Presenting with Bleeding, Pelvic Pain, and Dysmenorrhea.

Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) can arise from lymphatic cells located in solid organs (extranodal) and it accounts for 25 to 35% of all NHL. Primary lymphoma on the female genital tract (PLFGT) is a rare disease, comprising 0.2 to 1.1% of all extranodal lymphomas in the female population. In this paper, the authors report an extremely rare case of a 48-year-old woman who exhibited an abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and dysmenorrhea history. The transvaginal ultrasound showed an anteverted uterus measuring 153 cm3 in volume, with intramural leiomyomas. She underwent a total laparoscopic hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy. The histologic evaluation of the specimen showed a follicular lymphoma with diffuse pattern in the endometrium. This report illustrates the difficulty in the diagnosis of primary lymphomas of the female genital tract.

TSH levels are associated with increased risk of thyroid carcinoma in patients with nodular disease.

INTRODUCTION: Several studies have shown an increased risk of thyroid malignancies in patients with elevated TSH levels, even if these levels fell within the normal range. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between TSH and risk of malignancy in patients with thyroid nodules. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We included 622 patients with thyroid nodules evaluated by fine needle aspiration and/or thyroidectomy and diagnosed by cytology or histology. Clinical and laboratory data, such as gender, weight, ultrasound findings, serum TSH, and free T4, were obtained from medical records or collected during each patient's first visit to our centre, prior to any intervention. RESULTS: Thyroid cancer was more prevalent in males (p = 0.012) and in patients with a solitary nodule (p < 0.01). Malignant tumours were predominantly solid, whereas benign tumours were solid or mixed (p = 0.053). The carcinoma risk in patients with thyroid nodules increased with increasing serum TSH concentration, with a significant elevation in patients with serum TSH levels above 1.64 mU/L (p < 0.001). This relationship persisted even when the subgroup of patients undergoing thyroidectomy was analysed separately. Patients with follicular lesions presented with significantly higher TSH levels compared to patients with benign cytology (p < 0.001). We also found correlation between elevated TSH and tumour size (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that in patients with nodular thyroid disease the carcinoma risk rose in parallel with serum TSH concentration, with significant increases evident in patients with serum TSH greater than 1.64 mU/L.

Condrossarcoma de nasofaringe: relato de um caso / Nasopharynx chondrosarcoma: case report

Introdução: O condrossarcoma é uma neoplasia maligna do tecido cartilaginoso que representa 20 a 25% de todos os sarcomas ósseos, sendo que apenas 10 a 12% estão situados na região de cabeça e pescoço. Objetivo: Este artigo tem como objetivo relatar um caso raro de condrossarcoma de nasofaringe apresentando boa evolução. Relato de Caso: MLCV, feminino, 70 anos, com dor facial à esquerda e perda de visão de olho esquerdo de início há 3 meses. Anosmia e obstrução nasal esquerda também presentes. Ressonância magnética mostrou lesão expansiva em nasofaringe, com 4cm em seu maior diâmetro, com extensão para seios etmoidais, região posterior das fossas nasais, septo nasal, seio esfenoidal e extensa infiltração do clivus. Biópsia mostrou condrossarcoma GII. Paciente foi submetida à ressecção de tumor da base do crânio via degloving apresentando boa evolução e sendo em seguida submetida à radioterapia. Atualmente segue em acompanhamento há 5 anos, sem sinais de recidiva. Conclusão: O caso em questão ilustra uma localização pouco usual de condrossarcoma cujo tratamento e curabilidade são bastante complexos em função da localização e da exigüidade de margens cirúrgicas. Apesar das dificuldades inerentes a estes aspectos, graças a inclusão do condrossarcoma na gama dos diagnósticos diferenciais e à combinação entre o tratamento cirúrgico e a radioterapia, foi possível obter o controle da doença a longo prazo com menor morbidade ao paciente.

Background: Chondrosarcoma is a malignant tumor of cartilaginous tissue that represents 20-25% of all bone sarcomas. Only 10 to 12% are located in the head and neck. Aim: The aim of this study is to report a rare nasopharynx chondrosarcoma case with positive outcome. Case Report: MLCV, female, 70 years old, complaining about left facial pain and loss of vision in left eye which started 3 months ago. Olfatory loss and left nasal obstruction were also present. MRI showed nasopharynx lesion, with 4cm in its largest diameter, extending to the ethmoid sinus, posterior region of nasal cavity, nasal septum, sphenoid sinus and extensive infiltration of clivus. Biopsy revealed chondrosarcoma GII. The patient underwent tumor resection via degloving presenting good evolution and was then submitted to radiotherapy. The follow up is now 5 years and the patient has no signs of recurrence. Conclusion: This case reports an unusual chondrosarcoma location in which treatment and curability are quite complex depending on the location and the exiguity of surgical margins. Despite the difficulties inherent to these aspects, thanks to the inclusion of chondrosarcoma in the range of differential diagnoses and to the combination of surgery and radiotherapy, it was possible to control the disease in long term with less morbidity to the patient.

Prospective study evaluating oncological safety of axillary reverse mapping.

BACKGROUND: Axillary reverse mapping (ARM) is a new technique developed with the aim of reducing lymphedema rates by preserving lymphatic drainage of the upper limbs during sentinel lymph node biopsy and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). However, it is unclear whether preservation of these lymph nodes affects oncological risk. The present study evaluated the presence of metastases in ARM nodes. METHODS: A total of 45 patients underwent ARM during ALND. Blue dye was used for ARM nodes localization. All axillary lymph nodes, including ARM nodes, were removed and sent separately for pathological evaluation of metastases. RESULTS: ARM identification was achieved in 40/45 patients (88.9 %). The average number of removed ARM nodes was 1.9. ARM nodes metastasis occurred in 10 of 40 patients (25 %). Patients with an axilla extensively affected by cancer had an elevated risk of metastasis to the arm's lymph nodes (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The rate of arm lymph nodes compromised by metastases calls into question the viability of the ARM technique. Larger studies may point to particular patient profiles for which ARM can be safely use.

[Correlation between serum Ca-125 levels and surgical findings in women with symptoms evocative of endometriosis]. / Correlação entre os níveis de Ca-125 séricos e os achados cirúrgicos em mulheres com sintomas sugestivos de endometriose.

PURPOSE: To correlate preoperative serum cancer antigen 125 (Ca-125) levels and laparoscopic findings in women with pelvic pain symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted including all women with pelvic pain symptoms suspected for endometriosis operated by laparoscopy from January 2010 to March 2013. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to preoperative Ca-125 level (<35 U/mL and ≥ 35 U/mL). Subsequently, patients with ovarian endometriomas were excluded and a further analysis was conducted again according to the preoperative Ca-125 level. The following parameters were compared between groups: presence of ovarian endometrioma, presence and number of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) lesions and American Society for Reproductive Medicine score. The statistical analysis was performed with Statistica version 8.0, using the Fisher exact test, Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney test, when needed. A p value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: During the study period, a total of 350 women were submitted to laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis. One hundred thirty patients (37.1%) had Ca-125 ≥ 35 U/mL and 220 (62.9%) had Ca-12<35 U/mL. The presence of ovarian endometriomas (47.7 versus 15.9%), DIE lesions (99.6 versus 78.6%) and intestinal DIE lesions (60 versus 30.9%) was more frequent, and the AFSr score was higher (34 versus 6) in the former group. In the second analysis, excluding the patients with ovarian endometriomas (≥ 35 U/mL=68 patients and <35 U/mL=185 patients), similar results were obtained. The presence of DIE lesions (91.2 versus 76.2%), intestinal DIE lesions (63.2 versus 25.4%), bladder DIE lesions (20.6 versus 4.8%) and ureteral DIE lesions (7.3 versus 1.6%) was more frequent, and the AFSr score was higher (10 versus 6) in the Ca-125 ≥ 35 U/mL group. CONCLUSIONS: Investigation for DIE is mandatory in women with pelvic pain symptoms suggestive of endometriosis with a preoperative Ca-125 level ≥ 35 U/mL, especially when an ovarian endometrioma is not present.

Correlação entre os níveis de Ca-125 séricos e os achados cirúrgicos em mulheres com sintomas sugestivos de endometriose / Correlation between serum Ca-125 levels and surgical findings in women with symptoms evocative of endometriosis

OBJETIVO: Correlacionar os níveis séricos pré-operatórios do antígeno do câncer 125 (Ca-125) e os achados laparoscópicos em mulheres com sintomas dolorosos sugestivos de endometriose. MÉTODOS:Um estudo retrospectivo foi realizado incluindo todas as mulheres com sintomas de dor pélvica suspeitos para endometriose operadas por laparoscopia no período de janeiro de 2010 a março de 2013. As pacientes foram divididas em 2 grupos de acordo com a dosagem de Ca-125 (<35 U/mL e >35 U/mL). Subsequentemente, as pacientes com endometrioma ovariano foram excluídas e uma análise adicional foi conduzida novamente de acordo com os níveis do Ca-125. Os seguintes parâmetros foram comparados entre os grupos: presença de endometrioma, presença e número de lesões de endometriose profunda infiltrativa (EPI) e escore da American Society for Reproductive Medicine. A análise estatística foi realizada com o programa Statistica versão 8.0, usando o teste exato de Fisher, o teste t de Student e o teste Mann-Whitney, quando necessário. Os valores p<0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. RESULTADOS: Durante o período de estudo, um total de 350 mulheres foram submetidas a tratamento laparoscópico de endometriose. Cento e trinta pacientes (37,1%) apresentaram Ca-125 >35 U mL e 220 (62,9%) apresentaram Ca-125 <35 U/mL. A presença de endometrioma ovariano (47,7 versus 15,9%), lesões de EPI (99,6 versus 78,6%) e lesões de EPI intestinal (60 versus 30,9%) foi mais frequente, e o escore da AFSr foi maior (34 versus 6) no primeiro grupo. Na segunda análise, excluindo as pacientes com endometrioma ovariano (>35 U/mL=68 pacientes e <35 U/mL=185 pacientes), resultados semelhantes foram obtidos. A presença de lesões de EPI (91,2 versus 76,2%), lesões de EPI intestinal (63,2 versus 25,4%), lesões de EPI de bexiga (20,6 versus 4,8%) e lesões de EPI ureteral (7,3 versus 1,6%) foi mais frequente, e o escore da AFSr foi maior (10 versus 6) no grupo Ca-125>35 U/mL. CONCLUSÕES: Em mulheres com sintomas dolorosos pélvicos suspeitos para endometriose com dosagem pré-operatória de Ca-125 >35 U/mL, a investigação de EPI é mandatória, especialmente quando não se identifica endometrioma ovariano em exames de imagem.

PURPOSE: To correlate preoperative serum cancer antigen 125 (Ca-125) levels and laparoscopic findings in women with pelvic pain symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted including all women with pelvic pain symptoms suspected for endometriosis operated by laparoscopy from January 2010 to March 2013. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to preoperative Ca-125 level (<35 U/mL and >35 U/mL). Subsequently, patients with ovarian endometriomas were excluded and a further analysis was conducted again according to the preoperative Ca-125 level. The following parameters were compared between groups: presence of ovarian endometrioma, presence and number of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) lesions and American Society for Reproductive Medicine score. The statistical analysis was performed with Statistica version 8.0, using the Fisher exact test, Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney test, when needed. A p value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: During the study period, a total of 350 women were submitted to laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis. One hundred thirty patients (37.1%) had Ca-125>35 U/mL and 220 (62.9%) had Ca-12<35 U/mL. The presence of ovarian endometriomas (47.7 versus 15.9%), DIE lesions (99.6 versus 78.6%) and intestinal DIE lesions (60 versus 30.9%) was more frequent, and the AFSr score was higher (34 versus 6) in the former group. In the second analysis, excluding the patients with ovarian endometriomas (>35 U/mL=68 patients and <35 U/mL=185 patients), similar results were obtained. The presence of DIE lesions (91.2 versus 76.2%), intestinal DIE lesions (63.2 versus 25.4%), bladder DIE lesions (20.6 versus 4.8%) and ureteral DIE lesions (7.3 versus 1.6%) was more frequent, and the AFSr score was higher (10 versus 6) in the Ca-125 >35 U/mL group. CONCLUSIONS: Investigation for DIE is mandatory in women with pelvic pain symptoms suggestive of endometriosis with a preoperative Ca-125 level >35 U/mL, especially when an ovarian endometrioma is not present.

Lesões impalpáveis da mama marcadas com suspensão de carvão: avaliação de aspectos anatomopatológicos, viabilidade de interpretação e resposta inflamatória / Non-palpable breast lesions marked with coal suspension: evaluation of anatomopathological aspects, viability of interpretation and inflammatory response

OBJETIVO: Analisar a eficácia da suspensão de carvão inerte na marcação de lesões impalpáveis mamárias e as alterações morfológicas associadas ao seu uso, além de determinar se há ou não prejuízo na interpretação destas lesões pelo patologista. MÉTODOS: Foram atendidos 135 casos de lesões impalpáveis mamárias, previamente marcadas com suspensão de carvão. As lâminas coradas pelo método de HE contendo pigmentos de carvão foram analisadas ao microscópio óptico, onde se realizou avaliação quantitativa e qualitativa da resposta inflamatória e determinação da presença ou não de prejuízo ao diagnóstico anatomopatológico. Os índices avaliados quantitativamente quanto à resposta inflamatória foram as contagens de linfócitos, células gigantes e neutrófilos, todos observados e quantificados em campos de grande aumento. Foi, ainda, avaliada a quantidade e distribuição de carvão presente nas lesões. RESULTADOS: Na avaliação quantitativa e qualitativa da resposta inflamatória observou-se, independente da quantidade de carvão, granulomas a "corpo estranho" em todas as amostras. Em relação à resposta inflamatória linfocitária 5,19% das amostras não apresentaram infiltração linfocítica, sendo que em 82,22% ela era de discreta intensidade e em 12,59% de moderada intensidade. Quanto à resposta inflamatória aguda, observou-se ausência total de exsudação neutrofílica em 42,96% dos espécimes, exsudação neutrofílica discreta em 42,22%, moderada em 11,11% e acentuada, sob forma de microabscessos, em 3,7% dos casos. Nesta série foram observados cinco nódulos de carvão, posicionados paralesionalmente, e que não geraram interferência na análise morfológica. CONCLUSÃO: Este método é marcador eficaz de lesões impalpáveis, de baixo custo, alta efetividade, sem prejuízo à análise histológica, além de ser de fácil execução; é confortável para a paciente e de grande auxílio ao cirurgião e patologista na localização destas lesões.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the efficiency of labeling impalpable breast lesions with inert charcoal suspension; to evaluate the morphological alterations associated with its use and to determine whether the use of charcoal labeling hampers the diagnostic interpretation of the pathologist. METHODS: Was evaluated a total of 135 cases of impalpable breast lesions previously labeled with charcoal suspension. Histological H&E stained slides containing charcoal pigments were analyzed using optical microscopy, by which both quantitative and qualitative evaluations with regards to inflammatory response and interference in diagnosis were performed. Lymphocyte, giant cells and neutrophils were evaluated and quantified. Moreover, the distribution of the charcoal suspension present in the lesions was evaluated. RESULTS: As to the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the inflammatory response caused by the use of charcoal labeling, granulomas were present in all samples regardless of the quantity of injected charcoal. Lymphocytic inflammatory response was absent in only 5.19% of the samples, 82.22% exhibited discrete intensity and 12.59% were moderate. With regards to acute inflammatory response, 42.96% showed total absence of neutrophilic exudate, whereas 42.22% contained discrete and 11.11% moderate neutrophilic exudate, and only 3.7% of cases had intense neutrophilic exudate. CONCLUSION: This study corroborates the utility and easiness of the charcoal method as a mean of efficient labeling of impalpable breast lesions; this technique is easy to use, has a low cost, high efficiency and does not interfere with the histological analysis. Moreover, it is comfortable for the patient and is of great help in finding and localizing the lesions for both the surgeon and pathologist.

Non-palpable breast lesions marked with coal suspension: evaluation of anatomopathological aspects, viability of interpretation and inflammatory response.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the efficiency of labeling impalpable breast lesions with inert charcoal suspension; to evaluate the morphological alterations associated with its use and to determine whether the use of charcoal labeling hampers the diagnostic interpretation of the pathologist. METHODS: Was evaluated a total of 135 cases of impalpable breast lesions previously labeled with charcoal suspension. Histological H&E stained slides containing charcoal pigments were analyzed using optical microscopy, by which both quantitative and qualitative evaluations with regards to inflammatory response and interference in diagnosis were performed. Lymphocyte, giant cells and neutrophils were evaluated and quantified. Moreover, the distribution of the charcoal suspension present in the lesions was evaluated. RESULTS: As to the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the inflammatory response caused by the use of charcoal labeling, granulomas were present in all samples regardless of the quantity of injected charcoal. Lymphocytic inflammatory response was absent in only 5.19% of the samples, 82.22% exhibited discrete intensity and 12.59% were moderate. With regards to acute inflammatory response, 42.96% showed total absence of neutrophilic exudate, whereas 42.22% contained discrete and 11.11% moderate neutrophilic exudate, and only 3.7% of cases had intense neutrophilic exudate. CONCLUSION: This study corroborates the utility and easiness of the charcoal method as a mean of efficient labeling of impalpable breast lesions; this technique is easy to use, has a low cost, high efficiency and does not interfere with the histological analysis. Moreover, it is comfortable for the patient and is of great help in finding and localizing the lesions for both the surgeon and pathologist.

Simultaneous monitoring of CMV and human herpesvirus 6 infections and diseases in liver transplant patients: one-year follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to simultaneously monitoring cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6 active infections using nested-polymerase chain reaction and, together with clinical findings, follow the clinical status of patients undergoing liver transplant. INTRODUCTION: The human ß-herpesviruses, including cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6, are ubiquitous among human populations. Active infections of human herpesvirus 6 and cytomegalovirus are common after liver transplantation, possibly induced and facilitated by allograft rejection and immunosuppressive therapy. Both viruses affect the success of the transplant procedure. METHODS: Thirty patients submitted to liver transplant at the Liver Transplant Unit, at the Gastro Center, State University of Campinas, SP, Brazil, were studied prospectively from six months to one year, nested-polymerase chain reaction for cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6 DNA detections. Two or more consecutive positive nested-polymerase chain reaction were considered indicative of active infection. RESULTS: Active infection by cytomegalovirus was detected in 13/30 (43.3%) patients, median time to first cytomegalovirus detection was 29 days after transplantation (range: 0-99 days). Active infection by human herpesvirus 6 was detected in 12/30 (40%) patients, median time to first human herpesvirus 6 detection was 23.5 days after transplantation (range: 0-273 days). The time-related appearance of each virus was not statistically different (p = 0.49). Rejection of the transplanted liver was observed in 16.7% (5/30) of the patients. The present analysis showed that human herpesvirus 6 and/or cytomegalovirus active infections were frequent in liver transplant recipients at our center. CONCLUSIONS: Few patients remain free of betaherpesviruses after liver transplantation. Most patients presenting active infection with more than one virus were infected sequentially and not concurrently. Nested-polymerase chain reaction can be considered of limited value for clinically monitoring cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6.

[Effect of subconjunctival bevacizumab on corneal neovascularization and reepithelization 25 days after chemical burn]. / Ação do bevacizumabe subconjuntival na neovascularização e re-epitelização corneana 25 dias após queimadura química.

PURPOSES: To evaluate the effect of subconjunctival bevacizumab in an experimental model of neovascularization in rabbit cornea. Determine its effect on vessels extension, inflammation, epithelialization of the cornea and whether the evaluation method used is appropriate to compare neovascular models. METHODS: Experimental, prospective, randomized, blinded study in twenty rabbits subjected to chemical trauma with sodium hydroxide at 1N divided into two groups. The study group received subconjunctival injection of 0.15 ml (3.75 mg) of bevacizumab and was compared with the control group that received subconjunctival injection of 0.15 ml saline solution. After 25 days, digital photographic analysis was performed to assess the vessel's extension and inflammation/diameter according to pre-established criteria. Histopathology of the cornea, which evaluated the state of the epithelium and the number of polymorphonuclear cells was also studied. RESULTS: The length of the neovessels was greater in the control group compared to the study group (P=<0.001). There was no difference in inflammation/vessel diameter between groups. Histopathology analysis showed that there was no difference between groups for the variables state of the epithelium and number of polymorphonuclear cells. The concordance analysis for the variable extension of the vessels and the variable inflammation/vessel diameter was estimated with Kappa coefficients of 0.705 and 0.500 respectively, indicating a good level of agreement in different evaluations and validating the method. CONCLUSIONS: The experimental model is adequate and can be reproduced to evaluate other drugs in the cornea. Bevacizumab inhibit the neovessels' growth but was not effective in preventing the inflammatory response. The drug did not delay the reepithelialization of the cornea.

Changes associated with percutaneous ethanol injection in the treatment of thyroid nodules.

Percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) is an alternative therapy for thyroid nodules (TN). However, some concern is raised on its carcinogenic effects. To evaluate the cytological and clinical changes caused by PEI in patients with benign TN. Thirty-nine patients with TN (23.1% hyperfunctioning) were submitted to a median of three PEI sessions. After a median of 17 months, patients were reassessed. A new ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (US-FNB) was performed, and the smears were analyzed after May-Grünwald-Giemsa staining. The diagnostic findings and the cellular characteristics were compared before and after treatment. There was an increase in the proportion of nondiagnostic/unsatisfactory results (from 2.5% to 18.9%). No malignant cases were observed. The proportion of moderate/intense macrophage infiltration decreased from 60% to 15%. Before treatment, 23.1% patients had hyperthyroidism, which was completely or partially resolved in 66.7%. By ultrasound, the percentage of homogeneous nodules decreased from 64.0% to 38.4% (p=0.0235), and the mean nodule volume decreased from 13.4 ± 12.2 to 5.3 ± 5.1 cm(3). We demonstrate that PEI increases the proportion of nondiagnostic/unsatisfactory results from US-FNB. Therefore, cytological findings after PEI must be evaluated with caution. Our results also suggest that PEI is an efficacious and safe therapeutic option, with no carcinogenic effects observed on cytological evaluations. Safety and efficacy must be evaluated in larger studies with longer follow-up periods.

Ação do bevacizumabe subconjuntival na neovascularização e re-epitelização corneana 25 dias após queimadura química / Effect of subconjunctival bevacizumab on corneal neovascularization and reepithelization 25 days after chemical burn

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a ação do bevacizumabe subconjuntival em modelo experimental de neovascularização em córnea de coelho. Analisar se o modelo de avaliação empregado é adequado e comparar entre os grupos a extensão dos vasos, inflamação e re-epitelização da córnea. MÉTODOS: Estudo experimental, prospectivo em 20 coelhos submetidos a trauma químico com hidróxido de sódio a 1 N divididos em dois grupos, Imediatamente após a queimadura, o grupo tratado recebeu injeção subconjuntival de 0,15 ml (3,75 mg) de bevacizumabe e o grupo controle, injeção subconjuntival de 0,15 ml de soro fisiológico a 0,9 por cento. Após 25 dias, foi realizada análise fotográfica digital para avaliar a extensão e inflamação/calibre dos vasos segundo critério pré-estabelecido e estudo histopatológico da córnea, no qual foi avaliado o estado do epitélio e o número de polimorfonucleares. RESULTADOS: A extensão dos neovasos corneanos foi menor no grupo estudo em relação ao controle (p<0,001). Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos na inflamação/calibre dos vasos. A análise histopatológica mostrou que não ocorreu diferença entre os grupos nas variáveis estado do epitélio e número de polimorfonucleares. A análise de concordância para a variável extensão dos vasos e para a variável inflamação/calibre dos vasos teve uma estimativa do coeficiente de Kappa respectivamente de 0,705 e 0,500 indicando bom grau de concordância nas diferentes avaliações cegadas, validando o método empregado. CONCLUSÕES: O modelo de avaliação foi adequado e pode ser reproduzido para avaliar outras drogas na córnea. O bevacizumabe inibiu a neovascularização corneana, porém não foi eficaz em reduzir o processo inflamatório. A droga não atrasou a re-epitelização da córnea.

PURPOSES: To evaluate the effect of subconjunctival bevacizumab in an experimental model of neovascularization in rabbit cornea. Determine its effect on vessels extension, inflammation, epithelialization of the cornea and whether the evaluation method used is appropriate to compare neovascular models. METHODS: Experimental, prospective, randomized, blinded study in twenty rabbits subjected to chemical trauma with sodium hydroxide at 1N divided into two groups. The study group received subconjunctival injection of 0.15 ml (3.75 mg) of bevacizumab and was compared with the control group that received subconjunctival injection of 0.15 ml saline solution. After 25 days, digital photographic analysis was performed to assess the vessel's extension and inflammation/diameter according to pre-established criteria. Histopathology of the cornea, which evaluated the state of the epithelium and the number of polymorphonuclear cells was also studied. RESULTS: The length of the neovessels was greater in the control group compared to the study group (P=<0.001). There was no difference in inflammation/vessel diameter between groups. Histopathology analysis showed that there was no difference between groups for the variables state of the epithelium and number of polymorphonuclear cells. The concordance analysis for the variable extension of the vessels and the variable inflammation/vessel diameter was estimated with Kappa coefficients of 0.705 and 0.500 respectively, indicating a good level of agreement in different evaluations and validating the method. CONCLUSIONS: The experimental model is adequate and can be reproduced to evaluate other drugs in the cornea. Bevacizumab inhibit the neovessels' growth but was not effective in preventing the inflammatory response. The drug did not delay the reepithelialization of the cornea.

Simultaneous monitoring of CMV and human herpesvirus 6 infections and diseases in liver transplant patients: one-year follow-up

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to simultaneously monitoring cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6 active infections using nested-polymerase chain reaction and, together with clinical findings, follow the clinical status of patients undergoing liver transplant. INTRODUCTION: The human β-herpesviruses, including cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6, are ubiquitous among human populations. Active infections of human herpesvirus 6 and cytomegalovirus are common after liver transplantation, possibly induced and facilitated by allograft rejection and immunosuppressive therapy. Both viruses affect the success of the transplant procedure. METHODS: Thirty patients submitted to liver transplant at the Liver Transplant Unit, at the Gastro Center, State University of Campinas, SP, Brazil, were studied prospectively from six months to one year, nested-polymerase chain reaction for cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6 DNA detections. Two or more consecutive positive nested-polymerase chain reaction were considered indicative of active infection. RESULTS: Active infection by cytomegalovirus was detected in 13/30 (43.3 percent) patients, median time to first cytomegalovirus detection was 29 days after transplantation (range: 0-99 days). Active infection by human herpesvirus 6 was detected in 12/30 (40 percent) patients, median time to first human herpesvirus 6 detection was 23.5 days after transplantation (range: 0-273 days). The time-related appearance of each virus was not statistically different (p = 0.49). Rejection of the transplanted liver was observed in 16.7 percent (5/30) of the patients. The present analysis showed that human herpesvirus 6 and/or cytomegalovirus active infections were frequent in liver transplant recipients at our center. CONCLUSIONS: Few patients remain free of betaherpesviruses after liver transplantation. Most patients presenting active infection with more than one virus were infected sequentially and not concurrently. Nested-polymerase chain reaction can be considered of limited value for clinically monitoring cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 6.