Predictive classification of human breast carcinomas based on lactalbumin synthesis

The milk protein lactalbumin was found in the cytosol fraction of 20 of 53 human breast carcinomas. Oestrogen receptor (E.R) was detected in 36 of the tumours. The presence of lactalbumin was closely associated with the presence of E.R.; in tumours containing both, there was a positive linear correlation between concentrations of lactalbumin and E.R. Synthesis of lactalbumin by a mammary carcinoma seems to indicate an intact oestrogen receptor mechanism and may therefore be useful in identifying tumours responsive to endocrine therapy.

The radioimmunoassay of human lactalbumin

A radioimmunoassay has been developed for the measurement of human lactalbumin, using the protein isolated in pure form from breast milk. Under disequilibrium conditions with second antibody separation the system will detect 20 pg of lactalbumin. Lactalbumin is detectable in the serum of approximately a third of normal male subjects; among women theproportion having measurable serum levels is age-related. Very much higher levels are present in the serum of lactating women.

Myxoedema coma presenting in status epilepticus

A 71-year-old woman with myxoedema coma presenting in status epilepticus is reported. Although this complication of myxoedema coma is considered to be fatal the patient described responded dramatically to treatment and remains in good health.