CD77 levels over enzyme replacement treatment in Fabry Disease Family (V269M).

Introduction: Fabry disease (FD) is a disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding for lysosomal enzyme α-galactosidase A (α-GAL). Reduced α-GAL activity leads to progressive accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), also known as CD77. The recent report of increased expression of CD77 in blood cells of patients with FD indicated that this molecule can be used as a potential marker for monitoring enzyme replacement therapy (ERT).

Restriction enzyme analysis of the hsp65 gene in clinical isolates from patients suspected of having pulmonary tuberculosis in Teresina, Brazil.

Objective: To identify mycobacterial species in the sputum of patients suspected of having pulmonary tuberculosis and to determine the impact that the acquisition of this knowledge has on the therapeutic approach.

Methods: We evaluated 106 patients suspected of having pulmonary tuberculosis and referred to the pulmonology department of a public hospital in the city of Teresina, Brazil. Morning sputum specimens were evaluated for the presence of mycobacteria by sputum smear microscopy and culture.