Classification of gastrointestinal stromal tumor syndromes.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, thought to derive from neoplastic outgrowth of the interstitial cells of Cajal. Building on recent advances in recognition, classification and diagnosis, the past two decades have seen a changing paradigm with molecular diagnostics and targeted therapies. and mutations account for 85-90% of GIST carcinogenesis.

Acute pneumonitis secondary to subcutaneous silicone injection.

Following silicone injection, end organ toxicity can occur. To our knowledge this report documents the first case of silicone embolization in the Caribbean and serves to highlight an emergent danger associated with its illicit use for cosmetic purposes in this region.

Severe pretibial myxedema.

Although pretibial myxedema (PTM) occurs in 4.3% of patients with Graves's disease, the most severe variant, elephantiasis nostras verrucosa, is found in less than 1% of cases. The most frequent location of infiltration is the lower extremities, especially the pretibial areas and on the dorsum of the foot.

Taking the next step in 2005, the year of the diabetic foot.

Objectives: To determine the age-standardized rate of lower limb amputations among Type 2 diabetics admitted to the Port of Spain General Hospital (POSGH), San Fernando General Hospital (SFGH) and Sangre Grande County Hospital (SGCH) for the period 2000-2004. To determine in-hospital mortality following amputation, for the same period. To determine the risk factors that contributed to diabetic foot complications.