Neuropilin-1 expression in squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus.

Objectives: The development of new therapeutic targets is needed to change the current low survival rates of cancer of the oesophagus. In some clinical trials, angiogenic inhibitors, including those targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors, have proven efficacious. In concert with this, neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a coreceptor for VEGF, is expressed by many tumours and may be related to their progression.

[Needlescopic thoracic sympathectomy for palmar hyperhidrosis].

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of needlescopic thoracic sympathectomy for palmar hyperhidrosis.

Methods: From March 2004 to April 2005, 62 patients, including 23 men and 39 women with a mean age of 23 years (ranged from 12 to 53 years), underwent bilateral needlescopic thoracic sympathectomy. Among all the patients 8 cases had accompanied axillary hyperhidrosis.

Huge benign mesenchymoma in pharynx-esophagus.

Benign mesenchymoma is an uncommon neoplastic disease and its occurrence in pharynx-esophagus is even more rarely reported. A successful case operation is reported. The origin of this tumor was in the pharynx-esophagus, and complete excision was achieved through a laterocervical approach.

Left ventricular bronchogenic cyst.

Bronchogenic cysts occurring in the left ventricle are a medical rarity. One successfully operated case is reported herein. The location of the cyst was just between the epicardium and myocardium of the inferior left ventricular wall, adjacent to the apex of the heart.