Publications by authors named "S F Urbak"

Article Synopsis
  • Metastatic posterior uveal melanoma (PUM) has a short median survival, but some patients live longer, prompting this study to explore if the location of metastases affects survival rates.
  • The study analyzed 178 patients divided into three groups: those with only liver metastases (hepatic), those with both liver and other metastases (hepatic-extrahepatic), and those with only non-liver metastases (extrahepatic).
  • Results showed that patients with extrahepatic metastases had a significantly longer median survival (17 months) compared to those with liver-only (11 months) or combined liver and other (7 months) metastases, highlighting the importance of anatomical location in prognosis.
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Retinoblastoma is the most common eye cancer in children. It is caused by pathogenic alterations of both alleles of the tumor suppressor gene RB1. In heritable retinoblastoma, a constitutional RB1 variant predisposes the cells to tumor formation, and loss of the other allele is a prerequisite for the development of retinoblastoma.

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Ocular tumours may arise from various tissues and therefore present as a heterogeneous group of diseases with unspecific symptoms. Some of the tumours carry a high mortality with a life expectancy less than 50% after ten years. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a good outcome, and centralization has led to a decreased morbidity and increased survival in Denmark.

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Despite reporting an overall normal life, survivors of heritable retinoblastoma face numerous physical and psychosocial issues. In particular, reproductive decision-making is often complex and difficult. This study aims to examine survivors' reflections on passing on heritable retinoblastoma to their children, how survivors approach their reproductive choices, and how the healthcare system can optimize counseling and support.

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Background: Survivors with heritable retinoblastoma (RB) face a high risk for second primary cancer and RB in their children. Knowledge of heredity can support second cancer surveillance, convey reproductive options or early diagnosis of RB in their offspring. Currently, all newly diagnosed Danish patients with RB are offered genetic testing, as opposed to a minority of survivors diagnosed before available DNA testing.

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