Unusual anodic migrating isoamylase differentiates selected malignant from nonmalignant ascites.

Ascitic fluid from nine patients with nonmalignant ascites and nine patients with malignant ascites was subjected to isoamylase analysis. Unusual isoamylase bands that migrate to the anode were demonstrated in seven of eight patients with ovarian carcinoma and in one patient with gastric carcinoma. In no case of nonmalignant ascites was anodic isoamylase found, despite the presence of normal amylase in all samples.

Aortoesophageal fistula: early and late endoscopic features.

Endoscopic photographs were obtained in a patient with back pain and hematemesis. External compression of the mid-esophagus and small esophageal diverticula was noted, as well as a small erosion oozing bright red blood in otherwise normal mucosa. Angiography revealed an aneurysm of the thoracic aorta without leak.