Comparison of COX-2, Ki-67, and BCL-2 expression in normal esophageal mucosa, Barrett's esophagus, dysplasia, and adenocarcinoma with postablation mucosa and implications for ablative therapies.

Background: The neosquamous mucosa that replaces ablated esophageal endothelium after endoscopic mucosal ablation for Barrett's metaplasia or high-grade dysplasia (HGD) may retain buried glandular tissue. This study aimed to assess the neoplastic potential, cellular proliferation, and resistance to apoptosis of this buried glandular tissue by measuring COX-2, Ki-67, and BCL-2 expression in these tissues.

Methods: A prospectively collected database was sourced for esophageal biopsy specimens with normal histologic appearance, Barrett's metaplasia, HGD, adenocarcinoma, and postablation mucosa comprising ablated Barrett's and ablated HGD.

Plain radiographic insight into a hard head.

Cirsoid aneurysms are rare arteriovenous malformations of the scalp, which are usually of congenital etiology. We describe the case of a young Sri Lankan farmer who presented with a progressively enlarging scalp mass of interesting character, yielding unique images on plain radiography before more advanced imaging and subsequent definitive treatment were performed. The utility of this simple imaging technique in underdeveloped settings is highlighted, and further diagnostic and treatment options are discussed in brief.

Candida: an unexpected cause of the acute abdomen.

The infected intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) is a well-described cause of the acute abdomen. However, severe pelvic infection from Candida is an extremely rare complication of the IUCD. We present the first reported description of a Candida-infected IUCD manifesting as an acute abdomen where the degree of infection precluded a conclusive diagnostic workup and necessitated multiple laparotomies.