Prolactin Induces IL-2 Associated TRAIL Expression on Natural Killer Cells from Chronic Hepatitis C Patients and .

Background: Natural killer cells (NKC) are a major component of the innate immune response to HCV, mediating their effects through TRAIL and IFN-γ. However, their function is diminished in chronic HCV patients (HCVp). Prolactin is an immunomodulatory hormone capable of activating NKC.

Can pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour biopsy accurately determine pathological characteristics?

Background: Assessment of the pathological characteristics of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours is crucial for appropriate management. We compared preoperative pathological data with surgical specimens for accuracy.

Methods: Surgical patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours who underwent preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of the primary tumour or biopsy of liver metastasis were retrospectively included.

Western and Asian features of multiple sclerosis in Mexican Mestizos.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to compare the clinical expression of MS in Mexican Mestizos with that of patients of European or Asian descent; as well as to compare the annual frequency of new cases with that observed in the previous decades.

Patients And Methods: All patients with diagnosis of definite MS seen at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Mexico from January 1993 to December 2003 were studied (n=312). Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were compared with reports of patients from either Western or Asian origin; the long-term disability score was analyzed according to gender, age of onset of MS and the initial symptom.