Decreased occurrence of osteonecrosis of the jaw after implementation of dental preventive measures in solid tumour patients with bone metastases treated with bisphosphonates. The experience of the National Cancer Institute of Milan.

Background: Screening of the oral cavity and dental care was suggested as mandatory preventive measures of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) in patients receiving bisphosphonates (BPs). We investigated the occurrence of ONJ before and after implementation of dental preventive measures when starting BP therapy.

Patients And Methods: Since April 2005, 154 consecutive patients treated with BPs (POST-Group) have undergone a baseline mouth assessment (dental visit +/- orthopantomography of the jaws) to detect potential dental conditions and dental care if required.

Vaccination of metastatic melanoma patients with autologous tumor-derived heat shock protein gp96-peptide complexes: clinical and immunologic findings.

Purpose: To determine the immunogenicity and antitumor activity of a vaccine consisting of autologous, tumor-derived heat shock protein gp96-peptide complexes (HSPPC-96, Oncophage; Antigenics, Inc, Woburn, MA) in metastatic (American Joint Committee on Cancer stage IV) melanoma patients.

Patients And Methods: Sixty-four patients had surgical resection of metastatic tissue required for vaccine production, 42 patients were able to receive the vaccine, and 39 were assessable after one cycle of vaccination (four weekly injections). In 21 patients, a second cycle (four biweekly injections) was given because no progression occurred.

Prostaglandin E1 in the therapy of erectile deficiency.

We describe the management of 47 patients suffering from erectile dysfunction with prostaglandin E1. Positive response was reached in 38 patients. Self-injection was proposed and accepted by 30 patients.