Incorporating microarray assessment of HER2 status in clinical practice supports individualised therapy in early-stage breast cancer.

Accurate determination of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) status is essential for optimal selection of breast cancer patients for gene targeted therapy. The analytical performance of microarray analysis using TargetPrint for assessment of HER2 status was evaluated in 138 breast tumours, including 41 fresh and 97 formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) specimens. Reflex testing using immunohistochemistry/in situ hybridization (IHC/ISH) in four discordant cases confirmed the TargetPrint results, achieving 100% agreement regardless of whether fresh tissue or FFPE specimens were used.

APRI: a simple bedside marker for advanced fibrosis that can avoid liver biopsy in patients with NAFLD/NASH.

Background: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The NASH fibrosis score (NFS) has proven to be a reliable, non-invasive marker for prediction of advanced fibrosis. Aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) is a simpler calculation than NFS, but has never been studied in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Comparison of the quality of smears in transbronchial fine-needle aspirates using two staining methods for rapid on-site evaluation.

Transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) via flexible bronchoscopy is a well-established sampling modality for lung masses. The procedure is useful in the diagnosis of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions as well as for staging of bronchogenic carcinoma. Rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) adds value as it has the advantage of triaging material during the procedure so avoiding a battery of investigations.

Fine needle aspiration biopsy and flow cytometry in the diagnosis of lymphoma.

Unlabelled: Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is emerging as a technique of potential value in the diagnosis of benign and malignant lesions in areas such as the breast and thyroid gland. Its place in distinguishing reactive from neoplastic lymphoid proliferations, when compared to the established practice of excision biopsy and histopathology, continues to undergo evaluation. Morphology alone discriminates poorly between atypical or lymphoproliferative disorders as seen in the presence of Epstein-Barr or human immunodeficiency virus.

Ultrasound-assisted transthoracic biopsy: cells or sections?

Physicians increasingly use transthoracic ultrasound (US) as an aid for diagnostic procedures. At the bedside, US helps to visualize neoplasms in the chest wall, pleura, peripheral lung, and anterior mediastinum involving or abutting the pleura. Histology specimens from cutting-needle biopsies have been shown to be safe and effective.

Transbronchial needle aspirates: comparison of two preparation methods.

Study Objectives: Transbronchial needle aspiration has evolved as a key bronchoscopic sampling method. Specimen handling and preparation are underrated yet crucial aspects of the technique. This study was designed to identify which of two widely practiced sample preparation methods has a higher yield.

Utility of rapid on-site evaluation of transbronchial needle aspirates.

Background: Rapid on-site evaluation has been proposed as a method to improve the yield of transbronchial needle aspiration.

Objectives: This study investigated whether on-site analysis facilitates routine diagnostic bronchoscopy in terms of sampling, yield and cost.

Methods: Patients with lesions accessible for transbronchial needle aspiration on computed tomography were investigated.