Cost Effectiveness of G:CSF in Chemotherapy and Transplant-related Neutropenia

Sustained fever over 38°C is potentially lethal when neutrophil counts remain below 0.1 × 10(9)/L. To determine whether the addition of a haematopoietic stimulatory peptide to conventional supportive care and antibiotic management was cost-effective, 74 such episodes were analysed. Group I (5μg/kg G: CSF: n = 41); Group II (10 μg/kg: n = 19) and Group III (controls: n = 14): these were similar in respect of race, gender, age and body weight. The median days and range of neutrophil count below 0.1 × 10(9)/Lw as 6 (0-12), 7 (0-20) and 8 (0-20) and the corresponding figures for 0.5 × 10(9)/L were 8 (0-19), 8 (1-23) and 13.5 (3-30) days respectively, while the median hospital period was 26 (18-49), 30 (9-86) and 35 (13-44). Mean, standard deviation and range for bed costs in Group I was R9,528 (2125:6120-1660), the corresponding figures for Group II were Rll,453 (5570:3060-2924), and for Group III Rll,366 (2755: 4420-1496). The approximate fate of exchange is: Rl = US$5.87. When expenditure for growth factor was integrated these figures were approximately R26,071, R37,787 and R27,376. There were no advantages in 10 over 5 μg/kg G: CSF. More red cell transfusions were needed in Group III. The days requiring antimicrobial therapy were 14, 16 and 20 respectively. It is concluded from this study, carried out in reverse isolation at a University Teaching Hospital, that duration of neutropenic fever was significantly shortened on G: CSF but there was no benefit in using the higher dose. Additionally, at equivalent cost, there was a shorter period of hospitalisation thereby reducing risk of acquiring nosocomial infections. Finally, there was concurrently a decreased exposure to potentially nephrotoxic antibiotics. Accordingly, this regimen can be justified in the routine management of this category of patient.

Refractory Castleman's Disease

Angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia is an uncommon low-grade lymphoproliferative disorder first described by Castleman. It is typically asymptomatic with diagnosis incidentally made in young males on chest radiology. Biopsy, in 90% of cases, shows the hyaline vascular variant. In contrast the plasma cell sub-type is accompanied by fever, sweating, weight loss, anaemia, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly and hypergammaglobulinaemia. Treatment, when necessary because of symptoms, has variable outcome in response to corticosteroids, combinations of cytotoxic drugs, or radiotherapy. Failure to promptly achieve disease control has ominous significance and most patients die. High-dose chemoradiotherapy with bone marrow salvage, using haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells derived from bone marrow or peripheral blood, has precedent in this situation. We report a second successful outcome to this procedure in a 37 year old man with profound constitutional complaints of weight loss, drenching sweats, relentless high fevers and massive organomegaly, resistant to all previous therapy. After conditioning with total body irradiation, cyclophosphamide and high-dose melphalan followed by total nodal irradiation, he underwent peripheral blood stem cell allograft from an HLA-compatible sister. Despite his course being complicated by pulmonary tuberculosis he achieved immediate complete remission, and restaging at one year confirms this to be durable. This further anecdotal case report supports this option in refractory aggressive variants of this disease.

Myeloma Presenting with Massive Splenomegaly

Myeloma typically presents with skeletal damage, renal failure, metabolic disturbances and anaemia. Less usual associations are polyneuropathy, solitary plasmacytomas, and only rarely is lymphadenopathy found. Discomfort and left upper quadrant pain due to marked splenomegaly appears unknown, particularly as the initial symptom. Accordingly, two cases are reported in which this was the reason for seeking medical attention. In both splenectomy was unavoidable because of size and symptomatic infarction. The dominant histologic feature in the first was striking proliferation of sinus lining cells engorged with the IgA paraprotein. In the second there was dramatic expansion of the red pulp. In neither, despite using appropriate immunohistochemical techniques, could the enlargement of the spleen be attributed to infiltration by plasma cells that in the peripheral and blood and marrow had a distinctively unusual morphology. In these two individuals the pathophysiology remains obscure. In the first, although considered, it was not possible to meet the criteria for this being an example of littoral cell angioma. In the second, a postulated disseminated plasmacytoma with primary splenic sequestration remains unproven. This unique finding is, therefore, presented as descriptive pathology without recognisable explanation.

Effects of creatine supplementation on repetitive sprint performance and body composition in competitive swimmers

In a double-blind and randomized manner, 18 male and female junior competitive swimmers supplemented their diets with 21 g.day-1 of creatine monohydrate (Cr) or a maltodextrin placebo (P) for 9 days during training. Prior to and following supplementation, subjects performed three 100-m freestyle sprint swims (long course) with 60 s rest/recovery between heats. In addition, subjects performed three 20-s arm ergometer maximal-effort sprint tests in the prone position with 60 s rest/recovery between sprint tests. Significant differences were observed among swim times, with Cr subjects swimming significantly faster than P subjects following supplementation in Heat 1 and significantly decreasing swim time in the second 100-m sprint. There was also some evidence that cumulative time to perform the three 100-m swims was decreased in the Cr group. Results indicate that 9 days of Cr supplementation during swim training may provide some ergogenic value to competitive junior swimmers during repetitive sprint performance.

Nurses preparing for change: their needs and concerns

As a result of decreased lengths of stay and cost-containment initiatives, fewer nurses are needed in acute care settings. The trend for community-based health care is broadening employment opportunities for nurses to work in community settings. As nurses are considering options to base their practice in community settings, it is important to understand their concerns about making this transition. The results of a qualitative study conducted to examine the concerns and educational needs of acute care nurses related to working in the community are reported. Clinical, professional, and intrapersonal skills important for a successful transition to community-based practice are identified and discussed.

Efficacy and safety of oral immunotherapy with short ragweed extract

BACKGROUND

Oral immunotherapy, if proven safe and effective, could be an alternative to subcutaneous immunotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study investigated the clinic and immunologic effects of ragweed immunotherapy using a new microencapsulated, pH-sensitive, oral delivery system.

METHODS

A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 23 patients with allergic rhinitis to short ragweed. Following a baseline nasal challenge with ragweed allergen, oral immunotherapy with encapsulated short ragweed extract or placebo was administered once daily, 6 days/week. Dosed began at 3 micrograms Amb a 1 per day and were increased by 3 micrograms every three days as tolerated, to a maximum daily maintenance dose of 24 micrograms. A nasal challenge was repeated 6 weeks, later, followed by the continuation of maintenance therapy through the natural ragweed season. Daily allergy symptoms and relief medication usage was recorded. A final nasal challenge was performed at the end of the natural season. Short ragweed-specific serum IgE, IgG, and IgG4 antibody levels were measured every 2 weeks during the study.

RESULTS

Maximum tolerated doses ranged from 6 to 24 micrograms Amb a 1 per day (74% reached 24 micrograms). Adverse events were not serious or different between the active and placebo groups. The active group showed increased in short ragweed-specific serum IgG and IgG4 antibody levels. Symptom scores during the natural season were numerically but not statistically lower in the active treatment group. This group also experienced a greater reduction from baseline in nasal reactivity as assessed by nasal challenge.

CONCLUSIONS

These pilot data suggest that the encapsulated, pH-sensitive oral immunotherapy delivery system was safe, induced a brisk serologic response, and attenuated the symptomatic response to both experimental and environmental ragweed exposure.

Bone marrow progenitors in allergic airways diseases: studies in canine and human models

In a canine model of Ascaris suum-inducible bronchial hyperresponsiveness, we previously demonstrated that bone marrow-derived myeloid progenitors rise within 24 h of allergen inhalation; this effect is abolished by pretreatment with inhaled budesonide. We now report that this allergen-induced bone marrow response is observable in human asthmatics, and involves increases in both neutrophil-macrophage and eosinophil-basophil progenitors, within 6 h of allergen inhalation, as measured either by hematopoietic colony assays or by flow cytometric analyses of CD34+, IL-3R alpha+, and/or IL-5-responsive cell populations. In dogs, but not in humans, a transferrable serum hematopoietic activity accounts for the marrow response to inhaled allergen. These findings suggest that allergen-induced increases in bone marrow progenitor formation depend either on a serum hematopoietic factor(s) released after allergen challenge, or upon constitutive marrow upregulation of specific progenitors in allergic airway disease. Further studies to characterize the serum hematopoietic factor(s) and to determine the nature of any atopy-related progenitor profile are in progress.

Reversal of Life-Threatening Vascular Occlusion by Apheresis in Fulminating Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria

Plasmodium falciparum parasitisation can result in a systemic inflammatory response characterised by profound neurologic complications, renal failure, adult respiratory distress syndrome and disseminated intravascular coagulation with high morbidity and mortality. Complete obstruction to medium sized arteries seems not to have been reported before while the role of sequential whole blood and plasma exchange may be an under-utilised intervention that is life-saving in selected cases. A 25 year old patient was referred with mental confusion, rapidly deteriorating vision, hypotensive and oliguric, massive generalised oedema compressing muscles leading to rhabdomyolysis and impending gangrene of both lower limbs. 1,555 mL of whole blood was exchanged in the cell separator to reverse the haemoglobin of 35g/L, remove parasitised and effete red cells while simultaneously correcting hypovolaemia. Thereafter 4,000mL of fresh frozen plasma was similarly exchanged and 3 × 10(11) platelets given to treat the advanced disseminated intravascular coagulation. Anti-malarial therapy was continued with quinine sulphate and doxycycline for the chloroquin-resistant parasites. The tense swelling of the limbs gradually resolved, thereby avoiding fasciotomies, arterial occlusion reversed and microvascular perfusion was re-established with resolution of all symptoms. Tissue loss was eventually limited to fore foot amputation on the left. The patient has been physically and psychologically rehabilitated and discharged after six weeks in hospital. Malaria, when associated with multiple organ failure, is frequently fatal. Where appropriate, complications-due to vascular occlusion-can be promptly reversed with suitable apheresis. This practical approach is relatively inexpensive and should be available in all centres responsible for managing such patients.

Iron Deficiency Developing in Patients with Homozygous Hypercholesterolaemia on Long-term Plasmapheresis is Significantly Contributed to by Extracorporeal Haemolysis

Patients with homozygous hypeicholesterolaemia are notoriously refractory to pharmacologic intervention, leaving regular long-term plasmapheresis as one of the most effective forms of therapy. In this situation we noted the universal development of anaemia; accordingly, its pathogenesis was investigated in a stable cohort of patients over a two year period. Radionuclide studies were carried out in 8 of the 9 available individuals: of these 3 who were not on treatment and 3 out of 5 on the apheresis programme had mean red cell lifespan below the lower level of our normal range. The creation of an arterio-venous fistula and subsequent performance of plasma exchange procedures every two weeks was followed by a falling haemoglobin concentration and the appearance of hypochromasia and microcytosis. The latter was the result of substantial loss of iron through venesection, in the discard plasma and by a transient peak of the iron in the urine: the last two compartments were studied using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Such depletion could not be compensated for by a dietary intake of iron that barely met the recommended daily allowance whereas the anaemia reversed readily on oral supplementation. This is the first report of extracorporeal haemolysis in this clinical setting and recognition of its pathophysiology directly influences management. Thus, oral iron supplementation should prevent anaemia and its symptoms whilst also circumventing the paradoxical hyperviscosity that might otherwise occur from iron deficiency.

The interaction of an epidermal growth factor/transforming growth factor alpha tail chimera with the human epidermal growth factor receptor reveals unexpected complexities

It has been assumed that substitution of homologous regions of transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha) into epidermal growth factor (EGF) can be used to probe ligand-receptor recognition without detrimental effects on ligand characteristics for the human EGF receptor (EGFR). We show that a chimera of murine (m) EGF in which the carboxyl-terminal tail is substituted for that of TGF-alpha (mEGF/TGF-alpha44-50) results in complex features that belie this initial simplistic assumption. Comparison of EGF and mEGF/TGF-alpha44-50 in equilibrium binding assays showed that although the relative binding affinity of the chimera was reduced 80-200-fold, it was more potent than EGF in mitogenesis assays using NR6/HER cells. This superagonist activity could not be attributed to differences in ligand processing or to binding to other members of the c-erbB family. It appeared to be due, in part, to choice of an EGFR-overexpressing target cell where high receptor number compensated for the low affinity of the ligand; it also appeared to be related to the ability of the chimera to activate the EGFR tyrosine kinase. Thus, when EGFR autophosphorylation was measured, mEGF/TGF-alpha44-50 was more potent than EGF, despite its low affinity. When tested using chicken embryo fibroblasts, substitution of the TGF-alpha carboxyl-terminal tail into mEGF failed to enhance its binding affinity for chicken EGFRs; however, the chimera was intermediate in potency between TGF-alpha and mEGF in mitogenesis assays. Our results suggest a contextual requirement for EGFR recognition which is ligand-specific. Further, the unpredictable responses to chimeric ligands underline the complex nature of the processes of ligand recognition, receptor activation, and the ensuing cellular response.

Effects of ingesting supplements designed to promote lean tissue accretion on body composition during resistance training

This study examined the effects of ingesting nutritional supplements designed to promote lean tissue accretion on body composition alterations during resistance training. Twenty-eight resistance-trained males blindly supplemented their diets with maltodextrin (M), Gainers Fuel 1000 (GF), or Phosphagain (P). No significant differences were observed in absolute or relative total body water among groups. Energy intake and body weight significantly increased in all groups combined throughout the study with no group or interaction differences observed. Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry-determined body mass significantly increased in each group throughout the study with significantly greater gains observed in the GF and P groups. Lean tissue mass (excluding bone) gain was significantly greater in the P group, while fat mass and percent body fat were significantly increased in the GF group. Results indicate that total body weight significantly increased in each group and that P supplementation resulted in significantly greater gains in lean tissue mass during resistance training.

The lymphomas

Hodgkin's disease and the malignant lymphomas are, by all available evidence, eminently curable neoplasms. The debates, therefore, on how best the largest numbers of individuals in any community can receive appropriate treatment and this implies their ready access to an experienced multi disciplinary combined clinic. It is important that proper perspective be retained in the African context so that preventive medicine can be employed where appropriate but, based on current understanding, those with lymphoreticular malignancy become immediate beneficiaries of whatever diagnostic and therapeutic resources need to be expended in ensuring optimal outcome. The last word is far from written on how we, as inhabitants of the African continent, will achieve this goal and so measure up to our obligation. However, as resources continue to contract, three observations justify reiteration. Firstly, diagnostic skills need to be honed by experienced pathologists together reviewing all biopsy material and, wherever possible, participating in national or international study groups. Secondly, the silly distinction propagated by some self serving individuals who fantasize that state hospitals and private clinics somehow differ, must be replaced by a more responsible attitude in which resources are pooled in the common quest for maintaining academic standards. Thirdly, given acceptance of the above common sense proposals, a mechanism will exist for the establishment and constant upgrading of national guidelines for management on agreed and achievable protocols. Whilst the theme remains that of tested conventional treatment, flexibility must exist, where appropriate, for palliative care on the one hand with scientific growth and exploration of innovative options on the other. One might conclude by observing that Africa is most certainly unique and this extends to the frequency with which some of these tumours occur; a classical example would be Burkitt's Lymphoma. This places an obligation on all of us to gather and record such experiences and, from this basis, sustain our intellectual drive by forging international bonds with colleagues in the First World. Such collaboration will provide the natural bridge between clinical studies in Africa and the more sophisticated cellular and molecular biology that is being provided by basic scientists in other parts of the world. Such a marriage is practical and both parties stand to gain significantly in the research, development and evaluation of new drugs and protocols that, ultimately, serve the best interests of patients and do so on a world-wide basis.

A risk-to-benefit analysis for central venous catheters

Reliable venous access is an important consideration in the management of the cancer patient, where long-term intravenous therapy is needed. A single institution retrospective analysis of 205 catheter placements allowed comparison of different lines and techniques. This experience shows that surgical introduction under general anaesthetic of a double-lumen, 12 gauge, silastic catheter in the superior vena cava, via the internal jugular vein and using a 15 cm anterior chest wall tunnel, resulted in longest survival, fewest infections, and enjoyed a high patient acceptability. A substantial cost-saving, particularly in antibiotic usage, was observed as a result of the improved technique.

Fludarabine monophosphate as salvage for refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of the purine analogue fludarabine monophosphate (FAMP) as salvage therapy in patients at Groote Schuur Hospital with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) refractory to standard therapy.

DESIGN

Non-randomised trial.

SETTING

Tertiary care, referral academic hospital.

PATIENTS

Seven patients with B-lineage CLL, 4 in Rai stage IV and 1 each in stages A(I), A(II) and A(III), refractory to treatment with chlorambucil or cyclophosphamide, with or without whole-body irradiation.

INTERVENTION

Intravenous FAMP at a dose of 25 mg/m2 daily for 5 days every 28 days.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Partial remission, complete remission, stable disease or progressive disease.

RESULTS

Two patients entered CR and 4 PR after a median of 8 courses of treatment (range 2 - 12). One patient died of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia after 3 courses of therapy. The most common adverse effect of the treatment was myelosuppression, with the nadir of neutrophil counts being less than 0.5 x 10(9)/1 in 5 patients. Three developed infections and required hospitalisation while on therapy.

CONCLUSION

FAMP is effective as a cytoreductive agent in patients with CLL refractory to alkylating agents, with or without whole-body irradiation.

The use of multivariate methods in the identification of subtypes of Alzheimer's disease: a comparison of principal components and cluster analysis

Two contrasting multivariate statistical methods, viz., principal components analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis were applied to the study of neuropathological variations between cases of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To compare the two methods, 78 cases of AD were analyzed, each characterised by measurements of 47 neuropathological variables. Both methods of analysis revealed significant variations between AD cases. These variations were related primarily to differences in the distribution and abundance of senile plaques (SP) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) in the brain. Cluster analysis classified the majority of AD cases into five groups which could represent subtypes of AD. However, PCA suggested that variation between cases was more continuous with no distinct subtypes. Hence, PCA may be a more appropriate method than cluster analysis in the study of neuropathological variations between AD cases.

Lamivudine in children with human immunodeficiency virus infection: a phase I/II study. The National Cancer Institute Pediatric Branch-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Working Group

The safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic profile, and preliminary activity of lamivudine (2'-deoxy-3'-thiacytidine), a novel cytidine nucleoside analogue with antiretroviral activity, in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children beyond the neonatal period were studied. Ninety children received dosages of 1-20 mg/kg/day. Pharmacokinetic evaluation demonstrated serum and cerebrospinal fluid concentrations that increased proportionally to dose. As of January 1994, 11 children had been withdrawn from study for disease progression and 10 because of possible lamivudine-related toxicity, and 6 had died. CD4 and CD8 cell counts remained stable over 24 weeks in therapy-naive children and decrease slightly in previously treated children. Quantitative immune complex-dissociated p24 antigen and HIV RNA were decreased significantly at 12 and 24 weeks. In vitro resistance to lamivudine was documented in sequential virus isolates from some patients by 12 weeks. Lamivudine was well-tolerated and exhibited virologic activity in children, although future use in children is likely to be in combination antiretroviral regimens.

The significance of valine 33 as a ligand-specific epitope of transforming growth factor alpha

Although binding of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGFalpha) to the EGF receptor (EGFR) is mutually competitive, their binding is not identical, and their biological activities are not always equivalent. To probe for ligand-specific interactions, we have synthesized analogues of TGFalpha with modifications to the residue lying between the fourth and fifth cysteines (the "hinge"). Although this residue lies in a structurally conserved region of the protein, it is not conserved within the EGFR ligand family. Our results show that in TGFalpha there is a preference for a bulky hydrophobic hinge residue; this contrasts with EGF, for which a hydrogen bond donor functionality is preferred. Sequence analysis of the human EGFR ligands revealed that the nature of the hinge residue correlated with the sequence in the B-loop beta-sheet. As this region is an important determinant in recognition of TGFalpha by the chicken EGFR, we assessed the mitogenicity of the TGFalpha hinge mutants, as well as the other EGFR ligands, using chicken embryo fibroblasts. The preference of the chicken EGFR for TGFalpha hinge mutants with hydrophobic side chains paralleled that of the human EGFR. Betacellulin and heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor also possess an hydrophobic hinge; both were at least as potent as TGFalpha for chicken embryo fibroblasts. EGF and amphiregulin, both with hydrogen bond donor functionalities at their hinge, displayed markedly decreased in potency by comparison with TGFalpha. We propose that EGFR ligands can be subclassified into TGFalpha-like and EGF-like and that this is of functional significance, identifying a potential mechanism whereby EGFR can discriminate between its ligands.

Frequency and chronological distribution of linear enamel hypoplasia in a North American colonial skeletal sample

A skeletal sample of 44 individuals born and raised in early 18th century frontier settlements of Northeastern United States is examined for the frequency and chronological distribution of linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH) on the maxillary and mandibular incisors and canines. The prevalence of LEH ranged from 31% on the I2 to 66% on the mandibular C and the mean number of defects ranged from .59 on the I2 to 1.08 on the mandibular C. These frequencies were generally lower than those reported for two later samples; the Monroe County Poorhouse sample and the Hammon-Todd sample. Individuals in these latter two samples were derived from the lowest socioeconomic stratum of their respective populations. Frequency differences are explained within the context of the changing availability of resources that resulted from the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and wage labor which took place during the 18th and 19th centuries. The frequency of LEH was low prior to 1.5 years of age and may result from attrition and/or decreased susceptibility in the relevant area of the crown or from low morbidity or high mortality. Peak frequencies are observed in all age categories ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 years up to 4.0 to 4.5 years and are too late to result from weaning. Instead, they may reflect the susceptibility of nonimmune children to diseases that were common in colonial North America. As the majority of these diseases were not fatal, most victims who survived may have had one or more LEHs as visible proof of their earlier encounter(s).

Effect of splenectomy on T lymphocyte subsets in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus

A case-control study was conducted at two institutions to determine whether the absolute CD4 lymphocyte count or the percentage of lymphocytes bearing the CD4 marker (i.e., the CD4 percentage) is a more accurate indicator of underlying immune status in splenectomized patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Each of nine splenectomized HIV-infected cases was matched with six nonsplenectomized HIV-infected controls--three matched for CD4 lymphocyte count and three for CD4 percentage. In analyses including the eight cases with an initial CD4 lymphocyte count of > 200/mm3, controlling for the CD4 count revealed differences between cases and controls in terms of CD4 percentage (range, 10%-41% and 17%-54%, respectively; P < .01) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clinical stage (P = .06). Controlling for the CD4 percentage revealed a significant difference between cases and controls in terms of CD4 count (range, 396-1,040 and 55-784 cells/mm3, respectively; P < .01) but not CDC clinical stage (P > .7). These data suggest that the numerical relationship between the CD4 lymphocyte count and the CD4 percentage among splenectomized HIV-infected patients with more than 200 CD4 cells/mm3 differs from that among nonsplenectomized patients. The CD4 percentage appears to be a more accurate indicator of the underlying level of immune function in the former group of patients.

The identification of pathological subtypes of Alzheimer's disease using cluster analysis

A cluster analysis was performed on 78 cases of Alzheimer's disease (AD) to identify possible pathological subtypes of the disease. Data on 47 neuropathological variables, including features of the gross brain and the density and distribution of senile plaques (SP) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) were used to describe each case. Cluster analysis is a multivariate statistical method which combines together in groups, AD cases with the most similar neuropathological characteristics. The majority of cases (83%) were clustered into five such groups. The analysis suggested that an initial division of the 78 cases could be made into two major groups: (1) a large group (68%) in which the distribution of SP and NFT was restricted to a relatively small number of brain regions, and (2) a smaller group (15%) in which the lesions were more widely disseminated throughout the neocortex. Each of these groups could be subdivided on the degree of capillary amyloid angiopathy (CAA) present. In addition, those cases with a restricted development of SP/NFT and CAA could be divided further into an early and a late onset form. Familial AD cases did not cluster as a separate group but were either distributed between four of the five groups or were cases with unique combinations of pathological features not closely related to any of the groups. It was concluded that multivariate statistical methods may be of value in the classification of AD into subtypes.

Intravenous gammaglobulin has no advantages over oral corticosteroids as primary therapy for adults with immune thrombocytopenia: a prospective randomized clinical trial

Symptomatic immune thrombocytopenia in adults is potentially lethal, and, when conventionally treated with oral corticosteroid agents, approximately two thirds of patients will have some response in platelet count, but this is seldom durable. Since cytotoxic drugs are of limited benefit at this stage, splenectomy becomes necessary in 70% of patients. Intravenous gammaglobulin has been advocated as an alternative to prednisone as the primary form of treatment. A prospective, randomized comparison was carried out between oral prednisone (1 mg/kg/day; group 1; n = 17), high-dose intravenous gammaglobulin (400 mg/kg on days 1 through 5; group 2; n = 13), or a combination of both agents given on the same schedule (group 3; n = 13). The groups were well matched clinically and hematologically. No mortality occurred after initiating therapy, but one patient experienced a cerebrovascular accident. Response, defined as a platelet count greater than 50 x 10(9)/L, was achieved in 82%, 54%, and 92% of patients in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, but was only significant between groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.0365). The median times to peak platelet counts were 8.5 days (range 7 to 21 days), 7 (range 5 to 10 days), and 7 (range 3 to 23 days), respectively. Although there was a trend in favor of the steroid-administered groups, relapse was not significantly different, which occurred at a median of 184, 32, and 76 days, respectively, nor was the average time to splenectomy different at 339, 59, and 98 days, respectively. At a minimum of 2 years of follow-up, 5 of 17 in group 1, 2 of 13 in group 2, and 1 of 13 in group 3 had achieved platelet counts of greater than 100 x 10(9)/L and, therefore, did not require splenectomy. In contrast, where this indication was present for failure to respond, 8 of 12 (67%) in group 1, 4 of 8 (50%) in group 2, and 9 of 12 (75%) in group 3 remain in complete remission. Significantly more patients in group 2 than group 3 experienced a relapse (P = 0.0365). It is concluded that in previously untreated adults with symptomatic immune thrombocytopenia, gammaglobulin offers no advantage over conventional corticosteroid administration as the primary form of therapy. Additionally, more intense immunosuppression, resulting from the use of both agents combined, is no better than single agent corticosteroid agents and appears to be an unnecessary and unwarranted expense.

T cell depletion by exposure to Campath-1G in vitro prevents graft-versus-host disease

Campath-1G is an immunosuppressive monoclonal antibody directed against human lymphocytes. Its effectiveness in preventing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) by simple opsonisation of bone marrow T-cells has been studied in 36 consecutive allografts: in 17 for leukaemia, one for essential thrombocytosis and four for myeloma this was the sole means of GVHD prophylaxis. A further eight patients with aplastic anaemia received 3 months post-transplantation cyclosporin A (CsA) for this purpose whereas in the ninth and tenth the preparative regimen has been modified with this immunosuppressive agent now discontinued. Nucleated cells were harvested and after quantitative recovery of the mononuclear population on the Cobe 2997 separator they were exposed to 20 mg Campath-1G for 30 min at room temperature and then infused. Following standard conditioning, which included total lymphoid irradiation, the median days to reach 0.5 and 1.0 x 10(9)/l neutrophils were respectively 18 (range 9-34) and 28 (range 10-59); to 25 and 100 x 10(9)/l platelets the corresponding times were 17 days (range 5-32 days) and 27 days (range 13-127 days). In all, the day 14 trephine biopsy showed engraftment. At median follow-up of 20 months (range 5-44 months) only one patient has developed possible grade I cutaneous GVHD that responded promptly to corticosteroids: no chronic GVHD or CMV pneumonitis has been encountered. Of those with haematological malignancy transplanted in remission only two with acute leukaemia have relapsed. In aplastic anaemia graft loss initially occurred but this has been overcome by adding Campath-1G in vivo and omitting CsA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Construction and features of lambda EMBL3cosW, a lambda replacement vector for detailed analysis of large regions of genomic DNA

A phage lambda replacement vector, lambda EMBL3cosW, is described which expedites detailed analysis of large regions of chromosomal DNA. Two features of the vector aid this process. Firstly, the replaceable stuffer in lambda EMBL3cosW is flanked by SP6 and T7 promoters so that end-specific hybridisation probes can be rapidly generated from cloned inserts for identification of sequentially overlapping clones in genomic libraries. Secondly, because all the phage coding sequences in the vector (which are placed to the right of the replaceable stuffer) can be removed from cloned inserts by cleavage with NotI, restriction mapping of cloned inserts using partial digest strategies is greatly facilitated. Other features of the vector are: (1) strategically placed BamHI and XhoI sites for the cloning of genomic DNA partially digested with MboI or Sau3AI by two different methods; (2) SalI and SfiI sites for the isolation of intact cloned inserts; and (3) transcription terminators to insulate vector genes from transcriptional interference from cloned insert DNAs.

Mapping of 386 kb of genomic DNA in the human dystrophin-encoding gene (DYS) using an ordered phage lambda sublibrary of a YAC clone containing the DYS region

An integrated restriction map for HindIII and EcoRI has been constructed for 386 kb of the human dystrophin-encoding gene by partial digest mapping of 35 overlapping lambda EMBL3cosW phage clones derived from a yeast artificial chromosome containing this region. Map construction was simplified in two ways. Firstly, the sequence arrangement of lambda EMBL3cosW is such that only map data from cloned inserts are generated using partial digests of lambda phage DNA asymmetrically labelled at the left cos end with a complementary 32P-labelled oligodeoxyribonucleotide. Secondly, the degree of partial digestion was standardised for each restriction enzyme by using ultraviolet light-induced formation of thymine dimers in the recognition sequence to partially block the cleavage reaction. The map provides the basis for work on the analysis of chromosomal rearrangements in this region which give rise to Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and for studies of chromosome structure and function.

Detection of Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus in patients with chronic fatigue

Patients with chronic fatigue as a major complaint frequently present with recurrent sore throat, and on physical examination they have hyperemia and lymphoid hyperplasia of the pharyngeal area. Pharyngeal scrapings were obtained from 41 such patients and analyzed for Epstein-Barr virus or cytomegalovirus DNA by colorimetric in situ hybridization. Results were compared with healthy control subjects matched for age and sex. Epstein-Barr virus-DNA was detected more frequently in male patients, 5/9 (55.6%), than controls, 0/6 (0%), but there was no difference in frequency in female patients, 4/32 (12.5%), than control subjects, 1/29 (3.4%). Cytomegalovirus-DNA was detected infrequently in patients and controls, 13% versus 22% respectively. The presence of EBV-DNA did not correlate with antibody titers nor with the complaint of sore throat. Four of the five males who had positive EBV-DNA in the pharyngeal smears have now recovered.

Plasma exchange for homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: the Cape Town experience

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a rare disorder having a greater frequency in populations with founder effects for the mutations in low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors. It is characterized by early signs of cholesterol infiltrates with premature coronary artery disease and does not respond to conventional lipid-lowering therapy. Plasma exchange is an established mode of treatment which improves the biochemical abnormality and may allow reversal of the physical manifestations as well as favourably influencing the clinical course of the disease. The efficacy, safety and tolerability of this procedure is confirmed by our experience over the 15 years following the previous report. In a subset of these patients who have residual LDL receptor activity, further lowering of the plasma cholesterol concentration was achieved by adding simvastatin, an hydroxy-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor. It is concluded that this combined approach may be of benefit in selected cases of homozygous FH undergoing regular plasmapheresis.

Generation of ordered phage sublibraries of YAC clones: construction of a 400-kb phage contig in the human dystrophin gene

A phage contig of 400 kb that extends from the brain-specific promoter at the 5'-end of the human dystrophin gene, through the muscle-specific promoter over 100 kb further downstream, and across most of intron 1 has been assembled. To achieve this, a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) subcloning approach was used. Total DNA from a yeast strain containing a 400-kb YAC from the dystrophin gene was cloned using a lambda phage vector containing RNA polymerase promoters flanking the cloning sites. Phage containing human DNA inserts were then ordered into an overlapping set by hybridization of end-specific RNA probes from individual clones back to plaque lifts of gridded phage subclones. The clones generated will be useful as reagents for detailed structural and functional analyses of this region of the dystrophin gene.

Cloning, sequencing and expression of a cDNA encoding mammalian valyl-tRNA synthetase

A fragment of the cDNA encoding a rat valyl-tRNA synthetase (TrsVal)-like protein was cloned from a rat cDNA library in lambda gt11 using an oligodeoxyribonucleotide (oligo) probe. Three independent plaque clones containing the human TrsVal cDNA were then isolated from a lambda gt10 human erythroleukemia cDNA library using the rat cDNA fragment as the hybridization probe. Sequence analyses of the cDNA fragments provided a 3.2-kb sequence with an open reading frame that contained the 'HIGH' synthetase signature sequence and the tRNA 3'-end-binding motif, KMSKS, and putative Val-binding motif, EWCISRQ. The sequence was extended to the 3' end of the cDNA by the polymerase chain reaction using an internal primer and an oligo(dT) adapter. The deduced 1051-amino-acid sequence shares 65% identity with yeast TrsVal, and contains a highly basic N-terminal region, a newly evolved protease-sensitive region in sequence close to the C terminus, and several sites for protein kinase C phosphorylation. A 3-kb cDNA fragment was sub-cloned into plasmid pSVL and expressed in COS-7 cells; up to a sevenfold increase in TrsVal activity was obtained. These results confirm the cloning and sequencing of a human TrsVal-encoding cDNA.

Changes in social support and quality of life: a case study of a man with an enduring psychotic illness

The Government's White Paper on community care has drawn attention to the importance of assessing changes in a person's well-being which occur as a consequence of clinical and social interventions. In the UK the evaluation of the quality of life of people with chronic mental illness is relatively new. This case study demonstrates the use of the 'Lancashire Quality of Life Profile' in routine clinical practice with reference to residential changes in the 'care programme' of a person with a long history of a severely disabling psychotic illness. The formulation and review of his care plan were determined by a network of agencies involved in his long term care.

Treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)

Forty-six consecutive patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), having a median age of 23 years (range 14 to 64), underwent induction and consolidation chemotherapy with weekly parenteral vincristine, adriamycin, l-asparaginase and daily oral prednisone (VAAP), followed by standard central nervous system (CNS) prophylaxis. Maintenance therapy was given for 3 years and consisted of daily 6-mercaptopurine, weekly methotrexate, and monthly intrathecal chemotherapy, with drug intensification comprising either vincristine, adriamycin and l-asparaginase (VAA) or cyclophosphamide, vincristine, cytosine arabinoside and prednisone (COAP). Complete remission (CR) was achieved in 36 patients (78%) and only the FAB L1 morphology was a significant predictive factor (Chi-squared = 3.91: p < 0.05). Eight of the 10 non-responders had significant drug resistance and 3 deaths were associated with marrow hypoplasia. Median follow-up is 52 months. Median duration of CR is 28 months, median survival of all patients is 16 months, and for those who achieved CR is 44 months. There was no difference between the two maintenance arms. Significant prognostic factors for survival are French-American-British (FAB) subtype, in which the L1 is better than L2 (p = 0.05), and age (p = 0.035). Nineteen patients have experienced medullary relapse and 7 (37%) achieved subsequent CR; this is durable in a single patient who underwent allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Eight patients (17%) had CNS disease at diagnosis; 5 achieved CR and 1 is alive and disease-free at 65+ months. There has been 1 CNS relapse. These results demonstrate that prolonged remissions and survival can be achieved with this protocol and many patients possibly cured. The level of toxicity is acceptable and the pattern of induction failure indicates that a margin exists for intensifying chemotherapy and thereby possibly further improving results.