Phase II clinical trial of metformin as a cancer stem cell-targeting agent in ovarian cancer.

BACKGROUNDEpidemiologic studies suggest that metformin has antitumor effects. Laboratory studies indicate metformin impacts cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). As part of a phase II trial, we evaluated the impact of metformin on CSC number and on carcinoma-associated mesenchymal stem cells (CA-MSCs) and clinical outcomes in nondiabetic patients with advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

Infectious diseases mimicking ovarian carcinomatosis.

Infectious diseases can present similar to ovarian cancer and occur concomitantly with ovarian pathology. With increased worldwide travel and migration of populations, infections endemic to developing countries can emerge in the United States. We present 2 cases of infectious diseases mimicking ovarian carcinomatosis.

Myxoid leiomyosarcoma of the Bartholin gland.

Background: Myxoid leiomyosarcomas originating from the Bartholin gland are exceedingly rare. Only one other case of a Bartholin gland myxoid leiomyosarcoma has been reported.

Case: Our patient presented with a 10 cm mass on her vulva, which was presumed to be a Bartholin gland cyst.

Metformin targets ovarian cancer stem cells in vitro and in vivo.

Purpose: Studies in non-gynecologic tumors indicate that metformin inhibits growth of cancer stem cells (CSC). Diabetic patients with ovarian cancer who are taking metformin have better outcomes than those not taking metformin. The purpose of this study was to directly address the impact of metformin on ovarian CSC.

Gardasil™ HPV vaccination: surveillance of vaccine usage and adherence in a military population.

Objectives: To investigate the usage patterns and adherence rates with the quadrivalent HPV (qHPV) vaccine at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted by using AHLTA (Electronic Health Record of DoD) to identify all qHPV recipients between 2006 and 2009. Charts were reviewed to extract demographic variables and immunization schedules for association analysis.

Nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy using modern bipolar electrosurgical instruments based on the ForceTriad energy platform.

Objective: To describe and evaluate a novel technique of nerve-sparing radical abdominal hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy (NSRH/PLND) using the bipolar Ligasure Atlas sealer/divider and Bissenger bipolar shears.

Methods: Retrospective study of 4 consecutive patients who underwent NSRH/PLND for stage IB1-IIB cervical carcinoma was conducted. Resection of the cardinal and uterosacral ligaments was performed with the Ligasure Atlas.

Recurrent postpartum anaphylaxis with breast-feeding.

Background: Anaphylaxis associated with breast-feeding is a rare but potentially life-threatening event.

Case: This woman reported anaphylaxis with three previous pregnancies while breast-feeding. With her fourth pregnancy she was treated with corticosteroids and antihistamines after delivery.