Relationship of thyroid transcription factor 1 to EGFR status in non-small-cell lung cancer.

Background: Activating mutations of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene are known to drive a proportion of non-small-cell lung cancers. Identification of lung cancers harbouring such mutations can lead to effective treatment using one of the agents that targets and blocks egfr-mediated signalling.

Methods: All specimens received at the BC Cancer Agency (Vancouver) for EGFR testing were prospectively identified and catalogued, together with clinical information and EGFR status, over a 14-month period.

Bilateral peritonsillar abscesses: a challenging diagnosis.

Peritonsillar abscess is the most common complication of acute tonsillitis. Bilateral peritonsillar abscesses are much less common, and they may be more difficult to detect on physical examination because the oropharynx often appears to be symmetrical rather than asymmetrical, as is the case in unilateral abscess. Previous steroid treatment may also complicate the diagnosis by masking the signs and symptoms of abscess.

Aortic arch origin of the left external carotid artery and type II proatlantal fetal anastomosis.

This case report demonstrates a rare vascular pattern of a left external carotid artery (ECA) that arises directly from the aortic arch (AA), along with a type II proatlantal-vertebral artery anastomosis. Our research shows no report of an ECA arising from the AA. This, in association with a type II proatlantal anastomosis, is interesting because of its apparent rarity.