Disorders of Divalent Ions (Magnesium, Calcium, and Phosphorous) in Patients With Cancer

A Case Report of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans and Refractory Hypomagnesemia: Unveiling a Paraneoplastic Syndrome

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, locally aggressive soft tissue sarcoma of the skin. DFSP typically presents as an asymptomatic, firm plaque in its earliest stage, gradually enlarging over months to years. This case report delineates a singular instance involving a 66-year-old female patient previously diagnosed with and treated for DFSP. The individual presented with a recurrent history of hospital admissions, manifesting symptoms of loose stools, generalised weakness, and diminished appetite. Investigations revealed persistent hypomagnesemia. The patient was treated with magnesium correction. Eventually, all complaints were resolved, and the patient was discharged satisfactorily. This case report aims to elucidate an exceptional correlation between DFSP and hypomagnesemia, characterised as its paraneoplastic syndrome (PNS). This study intends to comprehensively outline the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic interventions pertaining to this distinct association.

Warburg Effect Revisited: Embodiment of Classical Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry. Current State and Prospects

The Nobel Prize Winner (1931) Dr. Otto H. Warburg had established that the primary energy source of the cancer cell is aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect). He also postulated the hypothesis about "the prime cause of cancer", which is a matter of debate nowadays. Contrary to the hypothesis, his discovery was recognized entirely. However, the discovery had almost vanished in the heat of battle about the hypothesis. The prime cause of cancer is essential for the prevention and diagnosis, yet the effects that influence tumor growth are more important for cancer treatment. Due to the Warburg effect, a large amount of data has been accumulated on biochemical changes in the cell and the organism as a whole. Due to the Warburg effect, the recovery of normal biochemistry and oxygen respiration and the restoration of the work of mitochondria of cancer cells can inhibit tumor growth and lead to remission. Here, we review the current knowledge on the inhibition of abnormal glycolysis, neutralization of its consequences, and normalization of biochemical parameters, as well as recovery of oxygen respiration of a cancer cell and mitochondrial function from the point of view of classical biochemistry and organic chemistry.