Detection and Dynamic Changes of EGFR Mutations from Circulating Tumor DNA as a Predictor of Survival Outcomes in NSCLC Patients Treated with First-line Intercalated Erlotinib and Chemotherapy.

Purpose: Blood-based circulating-free (cf) tumor DNA may be an alternative to tissue-based EGFR mutation testing in NSCLC. This exploratory analysis compares matched tumor and blood samples from the FASTACT-2 study.

Experimental Design: Patients were randomized to receive six cycles of gemcitabine/platinum plus sequential erlotinib or placebo.

The current role of 1.5T non-contrast 3D time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography to detect intracranial steno-occlusive disease.

Background/purpose: This study was performed to evaluate the role of non-contrast 3D time-of-flight (TOF) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) to detect and quantify intracranial steno-occlusive disease.

Methods: Between April 2004 and January 2006, 45 patients with both 1.5T TOF MRA and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) performed within a 30-day interval were included.

Morphological changes of ulcerative plaque in patients received carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS).

Background: Carotid ulceration plaque is a strong risk factor for stroke and systemic vascular events. The purpose of this study was to assess immediate and follow-up ulcer morphology after carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS).

Methods And Results: A total of 124 patients were included in the study.