Identification of a recurrent t(4;6) chromosomal translocation in prostate cancer.

Purpose: We developed and describe a practical method by which primary prostate cancer specimens can be screened for recurrent chromosomal translocations, which is a potential source of fusion genes, as well as a process by which identified translocations can be mapped to define the genes involved.

Materials And Methods: A series of 7 prostate cancer cell lines and 25 transiently established primary cell cultures, which were sourced from tissue harvested at 16 radical prostatectomies and 9 channel transurethral prostate resections, were screened for chromosomal translocations using multiplex-fluorescence in situ hybridization technology. A series of fluorescence in situ hybridization based breakpoint mapping experiments were performed to identify candidate genes involved in regions associated with recurrent translocation.

Predicting and preventing post-herpetic neuralgia: are current risk factors useful in clinical practice?

Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) following acute herpes zoster remains a significant cause of neuropathic pain especially in the elderly. Early treatment of the zoster rash with antiviral agents, such as aciclovir remains one of the few measures proven to reduce the incidence and duration of PHN albeit only in a subset of patients. It is therefore crucial that the physician who first sees a case of zoster identifies those patients who are most likely to develop long-term pain and treats them accordingly.