An in vivo rat model for early development of colorectal cancer metastasis to liver.

At diagnosis of colorectal cancer, approximately 25% of the patients have established colorectal liver metastasis. Optimal management of disseminated disease requires therapies targeting multiple stages in hepatic colorectal cancer metastasis development. To facilitate this, biologically accurate in vivo models are required.

Clinical potential of quantum dots.

Advances in nanotechnology have led to the development of novel fluorescent probes called quantum dots. Quantum dots have revolutionalized the processes of tagging molecules within research settings and are improving sentinel lymph node mapping and identification in vivo studies. As the unique physical and chemical properties of these fluorescent probes are being unraveled, new potential methods of early cancer detection, rapid spread and therapeutic management, that is, photodynamic therapy are being explored.

In vivo models for early development of colorectal liver metastasis.

In Europe, colorectal cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer diagnosed. Globally each year, almost one million cases of colorectal cancer are registered and almost half a million deaths are attributed to this disease. This high mortality is associated with the development of liver metastases.

An unusual tumor presentation.

Germ cell cancer is the most common malignancy in men 15-35 years of age; 5% of malignant germ cell tumors are of extragonadal origin. The key to diagnosis and management is tumor histology. This point is highlighted in this case review.

Appendiceal mucocoeles and pseudomyxoma peritonei.

Mucocoele of the appendix occurs when obstruction of the appendiceal lumen results in mucus accumulation and consequent abnormal dilatation. The most important aetiology, from a surgical perspective, is either mucinous cystadenoma or cystadenocarcinoma. In the latter, a spontaneous or iatrogenic rupture of the mucocoele can lead to mucinous intraperitoneal ascites, a syndrome known as pseudomyxoma peritonei.

An analysis of risk factors associated with failure of below knee amputations.

Background: Below knee amputation (BKA) is often required in patients with critical limb ischemia. When such a procedure fails, an above knee revision (AKA) is required. This can cause further complications in this group of patients, who already have a high incidence of medical co-morbidities.