An isotope dilution LC-MS/MS-based candidate reference method for the quantification of androstenedione in human serum and plasma.

The accurate measurement of androstenedione in human serum and plasma is required for steroid profiling to assure the appropriate diagnosis and differential diagnosis of hyperandrogenism. In this work, we introduce an isotope dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) candidate reference measurement procedure for the quantification of androstenedione in human serum and plasma. The performance of the procedure enables its use in the evaluation and standardization of routine assays and for the evaluation of patient samples to ensure the traceability of individual patient results.

Characteristics of circulating endothelial cells obtained from non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients with additional diastolic dysfunction of left ventricle observed in echocardiography.

Background: Circulating endothelial cells (CEC) may be used to find new strategies for the early di-agnosis of cardiovascular diseases. The major objective of the project is to broaden knowledge of CEC biology by determining their phenotypic characteristics. The additional aim is to clarify whether on the basis of these information it is possible to identify the origin of CEC release (from various cardiovascular compartments).

Molecular cytogenetic analysis of chromosome aberrations in desmoid tumors.

To date there are only few reports concerning chromosomal changes in desmoid tumors. To extend the knowledge in this field we examined 19 samples from the patients diagnosed with desmoid tumors. In the present study formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded desmoid tumors were analyzed using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with a-satellite probes for chromosomes X, Y, 8 and 20.

Aggressive fibromatosis (desmoid tumors): definition, occurrence, pathology, diagnostic problems, clinical behavior, genetic background.

Aggressive fibromatosis, usually called desmoid tumor develops from muscle connective tissue, fasciae and aponeuroses. This neoplasm is composed of spindle (fibrocyte-like) cells. As regards the site, aggressive fibromatoses can be divided into: extra-abdominal in the area of the shoulder and pelvic girdle or chest and neck wall; abdominal in abdominal wall muscles; intra-abdominal concerning pelvis, mesentery connective tissue or retroperitoneal space.