Does telomerase activity add to the value of fine needle aspirations in evaluating thyroid nodules?

Background: Telomerase replaces DNA sequences that are lost with cell division. Increased activity has been documented in malignant cells. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) has a 90% sensitivity for diagnosis of papillary carcinomas, but a specificity of 52%.

The incidence of intraductal papillary mucinous tumors of the pancreas(1).

To review a population-controlled single institution experience with intraductal papillary mucinous tumors (IPMTs) of the pancreas treated in the United States and generate an incidence of this recently described disease process.First decribed in 1982, mucin-secreting pancreatic cancer constituted a newly recognized category of pancreatic exocrine tumors distinct from mucinous cystic neoplasms. Since that time, several small series of IPMTs of the pancreas have been reported.

A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of cisapride after colorectal surgery.

Background: The predominant factor prolonging hospitalization and delaying oral intake after colorectal surgery continues to be return of large bowel function. We investigated the effect of the cisapride on postoperative bowel motility.

Methods: Patients were started on cisapride versus a placebo on postoperative day 1 after colorectal surgery.

Using sector endoluminal ultrasound to identify the normal pancreas when axial computed tomography is falsely positive.

Rationale And Objectives: Little has been reported on the ability of endoluminal ultrasound (EUS) to identify a normal pancreas after an abnormal axial computed tomogram (CT). Many clinicians still use axial technology, as opposed to helical or spiral CT, which differ in scanning speed. Spiral CT and EUS are considered equal in their ability to diagnose pancreatic tumors.

The association between telomerase, p53, and clinical staging in colorectal cancer.

Background: A proposed etiology of tumor activation involves p53 mutations while telomerase may serve as a key enzyme for maintenance of tumor cell proliferation.

Methods: Telomerase activity levels were measured in colorectal adenocarcinomas and corresponding normal tissue using a modified telomeric repeat amplification protocol, and p53 mutations were identified using immunohistochemical staining. Results were compared with staging data using regression analysis.