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Robotti C, Costantini G, Saggio G, Cesarini V, Calastri A, Maiorano E, Piloni D, Perrone T, Sabatini U, Ferretti VV, Cassaniti I, Baldanti F, Gravina A, Sakib A, Alessi E, Pietrantonio F, Pascucci M, Casali D, Zarezadeh Z, Zoppo VD, Pisani A, Benazzo M. Machine Learning-based Voice Assessment for the Detection of Positive and Recovered COVID-19 Patients. J Voice 2024; 38:796.e1-796.e13. [PMID: 34965907 PMCID: PMC8616736 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Many virological tests have been implemented during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic for diagnostic purposes, but they appear unsuitable for screening purposes. Furthermore, current screening strategies are not accurate enough to effectively curb the spread of the disease. Therefore, the present study was conducted within a controlled clinical environment to determine eventual detectable variations in the voice of COVID-19 patients, recovered and healthy subjects, and also to determine whether machine learning-based voice assessment (MLVA) can accurately discriminate between them, thus potentially serving as a more effective mass-screening tool. Three different subpopulations were consecutively recruited: positive COVID-19 patients, recovered COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals as controls. Positive patients were recruited within 10 days from nasal swab positivity. Recovery from COVID-19 was established clinically, virologically and radiologically. Healthy individuals reported no COVID-19 symptoms and yielded negative results at serological testing. All study participants provided three trials for multiple vocal tasks (sustained vowel phonation, speech, cough). All recordings were initially divided into three different binary classifications with a feature selection, ranking and cross-validated RBF-SVM pipeline. This brough a mean accuracy of 90.24%, a mean sensitivity of 91.15%, a mean specificity of 89.13% and a mean AUC of 0.94 across all tasks and all comparisons, and outlined the sustained vowel as the most effective vocal task for COVID discrimination. Moreover, a three-way classification was carried out on an external test set comprised of 30 subjects, 10 per class, with a mean accuracy of 80% and an accuracy of 100% for the detection of positive subjects. Within this assessment, recovered individuals proved to be the most difficult class to identify, and all the misclassified subjects were declared positive; this might be related to mid and short-term vocal traces of COVID-19, even after the clinical resolution of the infection. In conclusion, MLVA may accurately discriminate between positive COVID-19 patients, recovered COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. Further studies should test MLVA among larger populations and asymptomatic positive COVID-19 patients to validate this novel screening technology and test its potential application as a potentially more effective surveillance strategy for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Robotti
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Costantini
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Saggio
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Valerio Cesarini
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Calastri
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Davide Piloni
- Pneumology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Tiziano Perrone
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Umberto Sabatini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Virginia Valeria Ferretti
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Irene Cassaniti
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Gravina
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Ahmed Sakib
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Alessi
- Internal Medicine Unit, Ospedale dei Castelli ASL Roma 6, Ariccia, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Pascucci
- Internal Medicine Unit, Ospedale dei Castelli ASL Roma 6, Ariccia, Italy
| | - Daniele Casali
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Zakarya Zarezadeh
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Del Zoppo
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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2
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Zoia C, Maiorano E, Borromeo S, Mantovani G, Spena G, Pagella F. Endoscopic approaches to the orbit: Transnasal and transorbital, a retrospective case series. Brain Spine 2024; 4:102770. [PMID: 38510598 PMCID: PMC10951755 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2024.102770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Orbital pathologies requiring surgery are traditionally treated by open approach with different techniques depending on the lesion location. Recently, minimally invasive endoscopic approaches, such as the Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA) and the Endoscopic Transorbital Approach (ETA) have been introduced in orbital surgery. Research question The purpose of this study is to report the combined experience of the Neurosurgical and Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) Units in the endoscopic approach of orbital pathologies. Material and methods We retrospectively retrieved data on patients treated at our Institution between 2016 and 2021 with endoscopic approach for orbital pathologies. The Clavien-Dindo classification and the Scar Cosmesis Assessment and Rating (SCAR) Scale have been used to assess complications and cosmetic outcomes. Results 39 patients met the inclusion criteria. EEA (15 patients) or ETA (20 patients) were chosen to approach the lesions. In three cases we used a combination of endoscopic and anterior orbitotomy and in one patient a combination of EEA + ETA. The type of procedure performed was orbital biopsy (9 cases), orbital decompression (6 cases), subtotal resection of the lesion (STR) (8 cases) and total resection of the lesion (GTR) (16 cases). The more frequent postoperative complications were diplopia (5.1%, with 1 case of permanent diplopia), trigeminal paraesthesia and dysesthesia (5.1%), palpebral edema (17.9%), periorbital ecchymosis (7.7%). Mean follow up time was 21 months (range 2-63 months). Discussion and conclusion Endoscopic approaches to orbital compartments provide minimally invasive access to every orbital compartment with low complications rate and good cosmetic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare Zoia
- Neurosurgery Unit, Moriggia Pelascini Hospital, Gravedona e Uniti, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Surgical Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Borromeo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Mantovani
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giannantonio Spena
- Neurosurgery Unit, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagella
- Department of Surgical Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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Suppressa P, Maiorano E, Gaetani E, Matti E, Lenato GM, Serio I, Masala MS, Passali GC, Aguglia M, Crocione C, Lopalco PL, Caneschi F, Musella V, De Silvestri A, Gambini G, Spinozzi G, Sabbà C, Pagella F. Impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: epidemiological and clinical data from the comprehensive Italian retrospective multicenter study. Intern Emerg Med 2023; 18:1109-1118. [PMID: 37140873 PMCID: PMC10157588 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03287-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Rare Disease patients manifested high concern regarding the possible increased risk of severe outcomes and worsening of disease-specific clinical manifestation due to the impact of COVID-19. Our aim was to assess the prevalence, outcomes, and impact of COVID-19 in patients with a rare disease such as Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) in Italian population. A nationwide, multicentric, cross-sectional observational study was conducted on patients with HHT from five Italian HHT centers by online survey. The association between COVID-19-related signs and symptoms and nosebleeds worsening, the impact of personal protective equipment on nosebleeds pattern, and the relationship between the presence of visceral AVMs and severe outcomes were analyzed. Out of 605 total survey responses and eligible for analysis, 107 cases of COVID-19 were reported. A mild-course COVID-19 disease, not requiring hospitalization, was observed in 90.7% of patients, while the remaining eight cases needed hospitalization, two of them requiring intensive-care access. No fatal outcome was recorded and 79.3% of patients reported a complete recovery. No difference in infection risk and outcome between HHT patients and general population was evidenced. No significative interference of COVID-19 on HHT-related bleeding was found. The majority of patients received COVID-19 vaccination, with relevant impact on symptoms and need for hospitalization in case of infection. COVID-19 in HHT patients had an infection profile similar to the general population. COVID-19 course and outcome were independent from any specific HHT-related clinical features. Moreover, COVID-19 and anti-SARS-CoV-2 measures did not seem to affect significantly HHT-related bleeding profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Suppressa
- "Frugoni" Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Unit, Centro Sovraziendale per le Malattie Rare, DIM-Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, HHT Interdepartmental Center, VascERN HHT Reference Center, Policlinico Hospital, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gaetani
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Multidisciplinary Gemelli Group for HHT, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Elina Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gennaro Mariano Lenato
- "Frugoni" Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Unit, Centro Sovraziendale per le Malattie Rare, DIM-Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, HHT Interdepartmental Center, VascERN HHT Reference Center, Policlinico Hospital, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Ilaria Serio
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Cesare Passali
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Multidisciplinary Gemelli Group for HHT, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Aguglia
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Vito Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy
- HHT Onlus Patient Association, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Luigi Lopalco
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Valeria Musella
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Scientific Direction, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Annalisa De Silvestri
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Scientific Direction, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Gambini
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Scientific Direction, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Sabbà
- "Frugoni" Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Unit, Centro Sovraziendale per le Malattie Rare, DIM-Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, HHT Interdepartmental Center, VascERN HHT Reference Center, Policlinico Hospital, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Pagella F, Maiorano E, Turri-Zanoni M, Ferrari M, Carena P, Zoia C, Czaczkes C, Conti C, Schreiber A, Battaglia P, Emanuelli E, Pelucchi S, Bignami M, Nicolai P, Castelnuovo P. The role of the osteoplastic flap in the endoscopic era: a retrospective multicentre experience on revision surgery. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital 2023; 43:S34-S40. [PMID: 37698098 PMCID: PMC10159640 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-suppl.1-43-2023-04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective To retrospectively review the experience of five tertiary-care university hospitals on frontal sinus revision surgery with osteoplastic flap (OPF). Methods Descriptive analysis of patients who underwent frontal sinus surgery with OPF after one or more endoscopic procedures for benign and inflammatory pathologies from 2000 to 2022. Clinical charts were reviewed for demographics, indications, clinical presentation, previous frontal procedures, OPF technique and outcomes. Results Of the 124 patients who underwent an OPF procedure, 33 met inclusion criteria. With a mean of 2.1 previous endoscopic surgeries, Draf III was the most common former procedure. In 30 (91%) cases OPF was part of a combined procedure. The most common indications were inverted papilloma (61%), mucocele (9%) and chronic rhinosinusitis (6%). Frontal outflow stenosis (36%) and mucocele (9%) were the most frequent complications observed. Improvement of overall symptoms and patient satisfaction after the OPF procedure were recorded. Conclusions Even in the endoscopic era, OPF still represents a paramount procedure that should be included in the rhino-surgeon's armamentarium, in particular in patients with challenging pathologies and anatomy when previous endoscopic endonasal attempts have failed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pagella
- Department of Surgical Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario Turri-Zanoni
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, ASST Sette Laghi Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Marco Ferrari
- Section of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Carena
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cesare Zoia
- Neurosurgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Camilla Czaczkes
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, ASST Sette Laghi Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Carlo Conti
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Schreiber
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Battaglia
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, ASST Sette Laghi Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Enzo Emanuelli
- Section of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Italy
- Unit of Otolaryngology, AULSS 2 - Marca Trevigiana, Treviso, Italy
| | - Stefano Pelucchi
- Ear-Nose-Throat & Audiology Unit, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bignami
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, ASST Lariana, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
- Head and Neck Surgery & Forensic Dissection Research Center (HNS&FDRc), Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Piero Nicolai
- Section of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Castelnuovo
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, ASST Sette Laghi Hospital, Varese, Italy
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Matti E, Maiorano E, Nacu B, Luceri A, Sovardi F, Siragusa V, Ferrauto A, Spinozzi G, Olivieri C, Benazzo M, Pagella F. Silicone septal splint for recurrent epistaxis in HHT patients: experience of a national referral centre. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital 2023; 43:S28-S33. [PMID: 37698097 PMCID: PMC10159634 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-suppl.1-43-2023-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective To report our experience in the use of silicone septal splint for recurrent severe epistaxis in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia patients (HHT). Methods This is a descriptive analysis carried out at the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo in Pavia, a reference centre for the treatment and diagnosis of HHT. We retrospectively evaluated HHT patients who underwent silicone septal splint positioning after the endoscopic surgical treatment of epistaxis from 2000 to 2022. Results Of the 506 patients surgically treated in the period of analysis, 74 patients underwent silicone septal splint positioning and 37 were post-operatively interviewed. With a mean of 2.4 previous surgical treatments and a mean epistaxis severity of 7.38, the majority of patients presented with septal perforation (71.6%). On average, patients maintained the splint in place for 54.5 months, with a good tolerability and a significant reduction in epistaxis severity, need for blood transfusion and improvement of haemoglobin levels. Conclusions In HHT patients with recurrent severe epistaxis and with septal perforation, the placement of septal splints offers a useful additional strategy in the management of nosebleeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Bogdan Nacu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Luceri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Sovardi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vera Siragusa
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carla Olivieri
- Molecular Medicine Department, General Biology and Medical Genetics Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Canzi P, Maiorano E, Sovardi F, Nardo M, Occhini A, Benazzo M. A Rare Presentation of Recalcitrant Oropharyngeal Stenosis in a 54-Year-Old Male Patient Following Transoral Robotic Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Am J Case Rep 2022; 23:e937123. [DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.937123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Canzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Sovardi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Nardo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Occhini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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7
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Cosentino G, Maiorano E, Todisco M, Prunetti P, Antoniazzi E, Tammam G, Quartesan I, Lettieri S, De Icco R, Corsico AG, Benazzo M, Pisani A, Tassorelli C, Alfonsi E. Electrophysiological evidence of subclinical trigeminal dysfunction in patients with COVID-19 and smell impairment: A pilot study. Front Neurol 2022; 13:981888. [PMID: 36313508 PMCID: PMC9615421 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.981888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Smell and taste disturbances are among the most frequent neurological symptoms in patients with COVID-19. A concomitant impairment of the trigeminal nerve has been suggested in subjects with olfactory dysfunction, although it has not been confirmed with objective measurement techniques. In this study, we explored the trigeminal function and its correlations with clinical features in COVID-19 patients with impaired smell perception using electrophysiological testing. Methods We enrolled 16 consecutive patients with mild COVID-19 and smell impairment and 14 healthy controls (HCs). Olfactory and gustatory symptoms were assessed with self-reported questionnaires. Electrophysiological evaluation of the masseter inhibitory reflex (MIR) and blink reflex (BR) was carried out to test the trigeminal function and its connections within the brainstem. Results Masseter inhibitory reflex (MIR) analysis revealed higher latency of ipsilateral and contralateral early silent period in patients when compared with HCs. No significant differences between groups were detected as regards the duration of the early and late silent period. However, several patients showed a prolonged duration of the early silent period. BR evaluation disclosed only an increased amplitude of early components in patients. Conclusions Patients with COVID-19 and smell impairment show a subclinical trigeminal nerve impairment. Trigeminal alterations mainly involve the oligosynaptic pathway, as a result of either direct viral damage or secondary neuroinflammation of the peripheral trigeminal fibers, whereas the polysynaptic ponto-medullary circuits seem to be spared. The prolonged duration of the early silent period and the increased amplitude of early BR response might reflect a compensatory upregulation of the trigeminal function as a consequence of the olfactory dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cosentino
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Translational Neurophysiology Research Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giuseppe Cosentino
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Todisco
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Translational Neurophysiology Research Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Prunetti
- Translational Neurophysiology Research Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Antoniazzi
- Translational Neurophysiology Research Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Tammam
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Quartesan
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Lettieri
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto De Icco
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Angelo Guido Corsico
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Pneumology Unit, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Movement Disorders Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Enrico Alfonsi
- Translational Neurophysiology Research Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
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Maiorano E, Calastri A, Robotti C, Cassaniti I, Baldanti F, Zuccaro V, Stellin E, Ferretti VV, Klersy C, Benazzo M. Clinical, virological and immunological evolution of the olfactory and gustatory dysfunction in COVID-19. Am J Otolaryngol 2022; 43:103170. [PMID: 34391165 PMCID: PMC8349441 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2021.103170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose New-onset olfactory and gustatory dysfunction (OGD) represents a well-acknowledged COVID-19 red flag. Nevertheless, its clinical, virological and serological features are still a matter of debate. Materials and methods For this cohort study, 170 consecutive subjects with new-onset OGD were consecutively recruited. Otolaryngological examination, OGD subjective grading, nasopharyngeal swabs (NS) for SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection and serum samples (SS) collection for SARS-CoV-2 IgG quantification were conducted at baseline and after one (T1), two (T2) and four weeks (T3). Results SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed in 79% of patients. Specifically, 43% of positive patients were detected only by SS analysis. The OGD was the only clinical complaint in 10% of cases. Concurrent sinonasal symptoms were reported by 45% of patients. Subjective improvement at T3 was reported by 97% of patients, with 40% recovering completely. Hormonal disorders and RNA detectability in NS were the only variables associated with OGD severity. Recovery rate was higher in case of seasonal influenza vaccination, lower in patients with systemic involvement and severe OGD. Not RNA levels nor IgG titers were correlated with recovery. Conclusion Clinical, virological and serological features of COVID-19 related OGD were monitored longitudinally, offering valuable hints for future research on the relationship between host characteristics and chemosensory dysfunctions.
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Mele D, Calastri A, Maiorano E, Cerino A, Sachs M, Oliviero B, Mantovani S, Baldanti F, Bruno R, Benazzo M, Grifoni A, Sette A, Mondelli MU, Varchetta S. High Frequencies of Functional Virus-Specific CD4 + T Cells in SARS-CoV-2 Subjects With Olfactory and Taste Disorders. Front Immunol 2021; 12:748881. [PMID: 34858405 PMCID: PMC8631501 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.748881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Olfactory and taste disorders (OTD) are commonly found as presenting symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with clinically mild COVID-19. Virus-specific T cells are thought to play an important role in the clearance of SARS-CoV-2; therefore the study of T cell specific immune responses in patients with mild symptoms may help to understand their possible role in protection from severe disease. We evaluated SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell responses to four different peptide megapools covering all SARS-CoV-2 proteins during the acute phase of the disease in 33 individuals with mild or no other symptom beside OTD and in 22 age-matched patients with severe infection. A control group of 15 outpatients with OTD and consistently negative nasopharyngeal SARS-CoV-2 RNA swabs and virus-specific IgG serology was included in the study. Increased frequencies of virus-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were found in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients with OTD compared with those with severe COVID-19 and with SARS-CoV-2 negative OTD individuals. Moreover, enhanced CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell activation induced by SARS-CoV-2 peptides was associated with higher interferon (IFN)γ production. Increased frequencies of Spike (S1/S2)-specific CD4+ T cells showing enhanced IFNγ secretion and granzyme B content were associated with serum spike-specific IgG in the OTD group. In conclusion, patients with SARS-CoV-2 induced OTD develop highly functional virus-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells during the symptomatic phase of the disease, suggesting that robust and coordinated T-cell responses provide protection against extension of COVID-19 to the lower respiratory tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalila Mele
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Calastri
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonella Cerino
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michele Sachs
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Division of Infectious Diseases I, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mantovani
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Division of Virology and Microbiology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Bruno
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Division of Infectious Diseases I, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alba Grifoni
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Alessandro Sette
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Varchetta
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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10
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Pagella F, Maiorano E, Ugolini S, Lizzio R, Sovardi F, Mirabella R, Nanfitò L, Tinelli C, De Silvestri A, Olivieri C, Spinozzi G, Matti E. Epidemiological, clinical and endoscopic features of epistaxis severity and quality of life in Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia: a cross-sectional study. Rhinology 2021; 59:577-584. [PMID: 34726201 DOI: 10.4193/rhin21.286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epistaxis is the main complaint in patients with Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). Even though the role of epistaxis in affecting the quality of life (QoL) is well-known, little is known about epidemiological and clinical factors contributing to epistaxis severity and QoL. METHODOLOGY This is a cross-sectional study, including adult patients with HHT with epistaxis. All patients underwent an otolaryngological evaluation with nasal endoscopy. Epistaxis severity was graded using the FID score, and QoL was evaluated with the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Descriptive statistics were produced for demographic characteristics; the Shapiro-Wilk test was used to test the normal distribution of quantitative variables. Correlation between the quantitative variables was evaluated with Pearson's correlation coefficient. Both univariate and multivariate linear regression models were fitted to find associations between demographic or clinical factors and the FID score or SF-36. RESULTS A total of 234 patients with HHT were included in the study. The univariate analysis highlighted the association between high blood pressure, septal perforation, nocturnal epistaxis, surgery, blood transfusion, hormonal therapy and both FID score and QoL. Sex, allergic rhinitis and nasal polyposis were neither related to epistaxis severity nor perceived health. CONCLUSIONS Epistaxis severity and QoL in patients with HHT are influenced by several clinical factors both dependent and independent from HHT. Some of the results are consistent with those already published, but for the first time, we extended the analysis to different clinical parameters, such as endoscopic findings, never assessed before.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - S Ugolini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - R Lizzio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - F Sovardi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - R Mirabella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Nanfitò
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - C Tinelli
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - A De Silvestri
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - C Olivieri
- Molecular Medicine Department, General Biology and Medical Genetics Unit, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - G Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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11
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Matti E, Lizzio R, Ugolini S, Maiorano E, Zaccari D, De Silvestri A, De Sando E, Marseglia GL, Benazzo M, Olivieri C, Pagella F, Spinozzi G. Nasal Endoscopy in the Clinical Diagnosis of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia. J Pediatr 2021; 238:74-79.e2. [PMID: 34265342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the role of nasal endoscopy for early clinical diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) in children and to investigate the characteristics of epistaxis and mucocutaneous telangiectases in our pediatric population. STUDY DESIGN From May 2016 to December 2019, a cross-sectional observational study was conducted, recruiting children aged 2-18 years with a parent affected by HHT. To identify the Curaçao criteria, all children underwent collection of clinical history, mucocutaneous examination, and nasal endoscopy. The clinical data were then compared with the genetic data acquired subsequently. RESULTS Seventy children (median age, 10.8 years) were included. All underwent nasal endoscopy without complications. Forty-six children were positive by genetic testing; of these, 26 % had skin and oral telangiectases and 91 % had nasal telangiectases. The diagnostic sensitivity of the Curaçao criteria increased from 28 % (95 % CI, 16%-43 %) to 85 % (95 % CI, 71%-94 %; P < .0001) when the nasal telangiectases were included. CONCLUSIONS The magnified and complete endoscopic view of the nasal cavities proved useful in increasing the diagnostic sensitivity of the Curaçao criteria. Such an examination turned out to be feasible and safe. For this reason, we believe that nasal endoscopy should be included in the diagnostic assessment of pediatric patients with suspected HHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Lizzio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Sara Ugolini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Dario Zaccari
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Annalisa De Silvestri
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta De Sando
- Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Marseglia
- Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Pediatrics, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carla Olivieri
- Molecular Medicine Department, General Biology and Medical Genetics Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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12
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Pagella F, Pusateri A, Maiorano E, Spinozzi G, Ugolini S, Lizzio R, Mirabella R, Tinelli C, Olivieri C, Matti E. Endoscopic surgical treatment of epistaxis in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia: our experience. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 41:59-68. [PMID: 33746224 PMCID: PMC7982753 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-n0915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare autosomal dominant disease characterised by epistaxis. Surgical procedures for epistaxis vary from diathermocoagulation to nasal closure. The aim of this paper is to report our experience in endoscopic surgical management of epistaxis in HHT patients. Methods This is a descriptive, longitudinal study carried out at the Otorhinolaryngology Department of IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo in Pavia, a reference centre for the treatment and diagnosis of HHT. We retrospectively evaluated HHT patients who underwent surgery for epistaxis from 1996 to 2015, including only those treated with endoscopic surgery. Results Among the 591 patients hospitalised and screened for HHT, 323 (54.7%) underwent endoscopic surgery for epistaxis, for a total of 679 procedures. General anaesthesia was used in 77.2% of procedures; argon plasma coagulation was the instrument of choice in the majority of patients, followed by lasers and quantum molecular resonance technology. Conclusions We report one of the largest cohorts undergoing endoscopic treatment of epistaxis in HHT patients. This mini-invasive surgical treatment allowed us to control epistaxis without major complications and nasal packaging and can be repeated over time. For these reasons, we recommend it as first choice in case of epistaxis in HHT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pusateri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Ugolini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Lizzio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosolino Mirabella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Carmine Tinelli
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometric Unit, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carla Olivieri
- University of Pavia, Italy.,General Biology and Medical Genetics, Department of Molecular Medicine, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elina Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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13
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Cassaniti I, Percivalle E, Bergami F, Piralla A, Comolli G, Bruno R, Vecchia M, Sambo M, Colaneri M, Zuccaro V, Benazzo M, Robotti C, Calastri A, Maiorano E, Ferrari A, Cambiè G, Baldanti F. SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell immunity in COVID-19 convalescent patients and unexposed controls measured by ex vivo ELISpot assay. Clin Microbiol Infect 2021; 27:1029-1034. [PMID: 33813122 PMCID: PMC8016542 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response characterization represents a crucial issue for defining the role of immune protection against COVID-19. The aim of the study was to assess the SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response in a cohort of COVID-19 convalescent patients and in a group of unexposed subjects. METHODS SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response was quantified from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 87 COVID-19 convalescent subjects (range 7-239 days after symptom onset) and 33 unexposed donors by ex vivo ELISpot assay. Follow-up of SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response was performed in ten subjects up to 12 months after symptom onset. The role of SARS-CoV-2 specific CD4 and CD8 T cells was characterized in a group of COVID-19 convalescent subjects. Moreover, neutralizing antibodies were determined in serum samples. RESULTS In 14/33 (42.4%) unexposed donors and 85/87 (97.7%) COVID-19 convalescent subjects a positive result for at least one SARS-CoV-2 antigen was observed. A positive response was observed up to 12 months after COVID-19 infection (median 246 days after symptom onset; range 118-362 days). Of note, SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response seems to be mainly mediated by CD4 T cells. A weak positive correlation was observed between Spike-specific T-cell response and neutralizing antibody titre (p 0.0028; r2 = 0.2891) and positive SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response was observed in 8/9 (88.9%) COVID-19 convalescent subjects with undetectable SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies. DISCUSSION Cross-reactive SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response in uninfected patients may be due to previous infections with other common coronaviruses. Our data suggest that long-term SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response might accompany a waning humoral response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Cassaniti
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Paediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Elena Percivalle
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Federica Bergami
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Piralla
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuditta Comolli
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Experimental Research Laboratories, Biotechnology Area, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Bruno
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Paediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Division of Infectious Diseases I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Vecchia
- Division of Infectious Diseases I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Margherita Sambo
- Division of Infectious Diseases I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marta Colaneri
- Division of Infectious Diseases I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Zuccaro
- Division of Infectious Diseases I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Paediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia and Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Robotti
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia and Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Calastri
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia and Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia and Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ferrari
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cambiè
- Immunohematology and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Ospedale Maggiore di Lodi, Lodi, Italy
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Molecular Virology Unit, Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Paediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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14
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Matti E, Lizzio R, Spinozzi G, Ugolini S, Maiorano E, Benazzo M, Pagella F. An alternative way to perform diagnostic nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Am J Otolaryngol 2021; 42:102828. [PMID: 33234296 PMCID: PMC7670921 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2020.102828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
On March 11, 2020, WHO has defined the novel coronavirus disease SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and still today continues to affect much of the world. Among the reasons for the rapid spread of SARS–CoV-2 infection, there is not only the high transmissibility of the virus, but also the role of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic carriers. Therefore diagnostic testing is central to contain the global pandemic. Up to now real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)–based molecular assays for detecting SARSCoV-2 in respiratory specimens is the current reference standard for COVID-19 diagnosis. Nasopharyngeal swab is the preferred choice for SARS–CoV-2 testing; however is not always a free of complications procedure. In patients with severe coagulopathies or diseases such as HHT, the risk of nosebleeding may be high. As in all those conditions like advanced stage sinonasal neoplasms or unfavorable anatomical characteristics, the nasopharyngeal swab may not be feasible. This work reports a safe and effective procedure of nasopharyngeal swab collection for COVID-19 testing, through the transoral way, in patients with contraindication to perform it transnasally. The procedure proved feasible and well tolerated. The discomfort for the patient is comparable with the execution of an oropharyngeal swab without exposing him to additional complications. In selected cases, the procedure described represents a valid alternative to nasopharyngeal swab performed transnasally. In particular, it allows reaching the area with the highest diagnostic sensitivity. Moreover it can be performed by Otolaryngology and, with adequate training, also by non-specialist staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Lizzio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Ugolini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Italy
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15
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Pagella F, Lizzio R, Pusateri A, Ugolini S, Maiorano E, Mirabella R, De Silvestri A, Tinelli G, Matti E. Adenoidectomy: Anatomical variables as predictive factors of intraoperative adenoid residues. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2021; 140:110493. [PMID: 33199030 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2020.110493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Adenoid hypertrophy is a common cause of upper airway obstruction in children. However, after adenoidectomy, nasal obstructive symptoms may persist or recur, requiring surgical revision. The aim of this study is to evaluate if individual patient features can influence the efficacy of the traditional technique. METHODS A retrospective observational study was conducted by recruiting patients from candidates for adenoidectomy. All children underwent conventional transoral curettage adenoidectomy with endoscopic control at the end of procedure, and in presence of adenoid residues, a concomitant revision adenoidectomy was performed. For each patient, the following data were collected: age, sex, weight, height, length of the soft palate and surgical technique used. RESULTS In 18% of patients (113/612), the most critical areas of the nasopharynx were not reached by standard surgery, making a complete adenoidectomy difficult. In this group, the average length of the soft palate was 3.1 cm, 5 mm more than the average of the sample, and 6 mm more than the average length of patients undergoing standard surgery alone (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our study confirms the hypothesis that a greater length of the soft palate conditions the results of the intervention. The length of the soft palate can be considered an intraoperative criterion to select the cases in which perform endoscopic control after the standard procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy; Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Lizzio
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Pusateri
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Ugolini
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosolino Mirabella
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Annalisa De Silvestri
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Guido Tinelli
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Elina Matti
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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Pagella F, Lizzio R, Ugolini S, Spinozzi G, Maiorano E, Suppressa P, Sabbà C, Matti E. Diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection in HHT patients: nasopharyngeal versus oropharyngeal swab. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2020; 15:350. [PMID: 33339521 PMCID: PMC7746917 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-020-01628-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
On March 11, 2020, WHO has defined the novel coronavirus disease SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic that still today continues to affect much of the world. Among the reasons for the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection, there is the role of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic carriers. Therefore diagnostic testing is central to contain the global pandemic. Up to now real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction-based molecular assays for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory specimens is the current reference standard for COVID-19 diagnosis. Based on current knowledge regarding the sensitivity of the molecular test, the highest positive detection rate is from lower respiratory tract specimens; alternatively it is possible to perform a nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal swab. Nasopharyngeal swab is the preferred choice for SARS-CoV-2 testing since it seems to have a greater sensitivity; however the procedure is not always free of complications and an epistaxis can occur. Among patients with greatest risk of massive nosebleed there are HHT patients. Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia is an autosomal dominant disease that leads to multiregional mucocutanous telangiectases and visceral arteriovenous malformations. Clinically, the presence of telangiectases in nasal mucosa is the cause of recurrent epistaxis. In HHT patients the execution of the nasopharyngeal swab can determine from little or no consequences to a massive epistaxis leading to the necessity of nasal packing generally followed by hospital admission. In HHT patients undergoing a diagnostic test to evaluate the SARS-CoV-2 infection status, especially in those patients with frequent epistaxis with a history of anemia and repeated hospitalizations, it is therefore advisable to perform an oropharyngeal swab. This, compared to the nasopharyngeal swab, exposes to a lower risk of severe nosebleeds related treatments, such as blood transfusions or invasive procedures. According to the risk-benefit assessment and based on our experience, we consider that, despite a lower diagnostic sensitivity, oropharyngeal swab is preferable to nasopharyngeal swab for the diagnosis of SARS CoV-2 infection in patients with HHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Lizzio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Sara Ugolini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Suppressa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rare Disease Centre "C. Frugoni" University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Carlo Sabbà
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rare Disease Centre "C. Frugoni" University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Elina Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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Pagella F, Maiorano E, Matti E, Tinelli C, De Silvestri A, Ugolini S, Lizzio R, Olivieri C, Pusateri A, Spinozzi G. FID Score: an effective tool in Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia - related epistaxis. Rhinology 2020; 58:516-521. [PMID: 32584331 DOI: 10.4193/rhin20.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare disease characterized by a multisystemic vascular dysplasia and epistaxis, that is the most common cause of disability and social impairment. Patient management strictly depends on the severity of this symptom; therefore, it is of paramount importance for the clinicians to effectively grade epistaxis severity. The aim of this report was to validate the Frequency, Intensity and Duration score (FID) for grading epistaxis severity in patients with HHT; we studied repeatability and external validity comparing FID score with Epistaxis Severity Score (ESS). METHODS This is a descriptive, observational study that included 264 adult HHT patients with epistaxis. Diagnosis of HHT was established with Curacao criteria or positivity at genetic testing. Nosebleed severity was evaluated according to the FID score and the ESS. The first 30 patients were included in the validation of the FID score, which was graded on days 0, 1, 3 and 7. In the remaining 234 patients, a comparison between the ESS and FID score was performed. RESULTS The statistical analysis performed in order to validate the FID score showed very good agreement between scores calculated on different days; analysis comparing the FID score with the ESS revealed a high correlation between the two grading systems. CONCLUSIONS The FID score is a quick, easy and precise tool for evaluating HHT-related epistaxis and could be a possible alternative to the ESS. The FID score meets the need for an intuitive and smart grading system that is easy to manage in clinicians’ hands.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pagella
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Matti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - C Tinelli
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - A De Silvestri
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - S Ugolini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - R Lizzio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - C Olivieri
- Molecular Medicine Department, General Biology and Medical Genetics Unit, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - A Pusateri
- Otorhinolaryngology Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - G Spinozzi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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18
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Benazzo M, Cassaniti I, Maiorano E, Calastri A, Novazzi F, Bonetti A, Sarasini A, Bruno R, Baldanti F. SARS-CoV-2 Virologic and Immunologic Correlates in Patients with Olfactory and Taste Disorders. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8071052. [PMID: 32679910 PMCID: PMC7409064 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8071052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The main object of the study was to investigate the SARS-CoV-2 molecular and serological pattern in patients with mild symptoms including anosmia and ageusia. A cohort of 69 patients with olfactory and taste disorders (OTDs) were enrolled and prospectively monitored. Serological and molecular assays for the characterization of SARS-CoV-2 IgG and SARS-CoV-2 RNA, respectively, were performed at the time of enrolment and after 7 and 14 days. Patients were stratified according to the symptoms’ onset. A total of 52 patients (75.4%) were diagnosed as COVID-19 positive being SARS-CoV-2 RNA and/or SARS-CoV-2 IgG positive. The remaining 17 (24.6%) were negative for COVID-19 and excluded from the analysis. We reported that only 34 out of 52 patients (65.4%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Moreover, the median time from onset of symptoms and enrolment was significantly higher in those patients with negative SARS-CoV-2 RNA in nasal swabs, suggesting that symptoms might last longer than SARS-CoV-2 replication. The great majority of patients (80%) developed SARS-CoV-2 IgG at three weeks after symptoms’ onset while the detectability of SARS-CoV-2 RNA dramatically decreased over time, suggesting the crucial role of combination of molecular and serological assays for the diagnosis of COVID-19 in those patients reporting mild symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.B.); (E.M.); (A.C.)
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Irene Cassaniti
- Molecular Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (I.C.); (F.N.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.B.); (E.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Anna Calastri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.B.); (E.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Molecular Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (I.C.); (F.N.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Alice Bonetti
- Molecular Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (I.C.); (F.N.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Antonella Sarasini
- Molecular Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (I.C.); (F.N.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Raffaele Bruno
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Molecular Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (I.C.); (F.N.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence:
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19
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Favia G, Capodiferro S, Limongelli L, Tempesta A, Maiorano E. Malignant transformation of oral proliferative verrucous leukoplakia: a series of 48 patients with suggestions for management. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2020; 50:14-20. [PMID: 32586723 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2020.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) is a rare and refractory form of oral mucosal leukoplakia of unknown origin, characterized by high rates of malignant transformation. Different diagnostic criteria, terminologies, and therapeutic approaches have been proposed since the first report in 1985. There remains no general agreement regarding the clinical and histological diagnosis, prevention, and correct management of this disease. This retrospective study investigated 48 patients affected by PVL showing at least one malignant transformation and followed up at 2-month intervals. Twenty-five were female (52.1%) and 23 (47.9%) were male; their median age was 67 years (range 40-93 years). Follow-up ranged from 18 to 240 months. Clinical examination included the use of Lugol's solution to prevent clinical underestimation of the margins and toluidine blue for suspicious areas. Surgical excision by scalpel was the preferred treatment for suspicious lesions, with only five carcinomas surgically removed by diode laser and two by CO2 laser. All specimens were accurately mapped after formalin fixation. Fifteen patients (31.3%; 10 female, five male) developed one oral carcinoma, while 33 (68.7%) developed two or more primary tumours (range 3-12). Only four patients (8.3%), who developed between 2 and 8 oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs), died of tumour-related causes. The pre-surgical clinical workup, subsequent surgical treatment, and follow-up are key to success for patients affected by PVL with malignant transformation into stage 1 OSCC and/or verrucous carcinoma, leading to a high overall survival rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Favia
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - S Capodiferro
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - L Limongelli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - A Tempesta
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
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20
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Favia G, Limongelli L, Tempesta A, Maiorano E, Capodiferro S. Oral lesions as first clinical manifestations of Crohn's disease in paediatric patients: a report on 8 cases. Eur J Paediatr Dent 2020; 21:66-69. [PMID: 32183532 DOI: 10.23804/ejpd.2020.21.01.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM Oro-facial granulomatosis is a descriptive term commonly encompassing a variety of conditions that exhibit similar clinical and microscopic features. It is generally used to describe persistent enlargement of the soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region. MATERIALS AND METHODS We report on the salient clinical features of 8 cases of Crohn's disease in paediatric patients (age range from 9 to 13 years old), with oral lesions as first clinical manifestations. RESULTS The clinical presentation of oro-facial granulomatosis is highly variable but usually recurrent facial swelling, mainly in the lips with or without intraoral manifestations, is the single most common clinical sign at onset. The association with systemic conditions such as sarcoidosis and Crohn's disease has been widely reported in literature. In paediatric age, oro-facial granulomatosis may frequently represent an extra-intestinal manifestation of Crohn's disease and oral lesions can be the first sign of an unknown intestinal disease. The diagnosis in paediatric patients is challenging as oro-facial granulomatosis may precede Crohn's disease by several years, frequently remaining the only evident active focus of the disease. CONCLUSION The detection of specific oral manifestations often preceded by painless gingival enlargement (diffuse lip and buccal mucosal swelling, oral cobblestoning, buccal sulcus ulceration and mucosal tags) and/or unspecific or ancillary ones (cheilitis, scaly perioral erythematous rashes and frank intraoral abscess formation, labial and tongue fissuring, glossitis and aphthous stomatitis) is mandatory for the early diagnosis of intestinal Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Favia
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Aldo Moro University Bari, Italy
| | - L Limongelli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Aldo Moro University Bari, Italy
| | - A Tempesta
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Aldo Moro University Bari, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Aldo Moro University Bari, Italy
| | - S Capodiferro
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Aldo Moro University Bari, Italy
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21
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Capodiferro S, Calabrese L, Maffini F, Cascardi E, Favia G, Maiorano E. Dentinogenic ghost cell tumour in a 20-year-old male with previous squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2019; 33:269-273. [PMID: 30654855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Capodiferro
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, "Aldo Moro" University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - L Calabrese
- Division of Otolaryngology, Bolzano Hospital, Bolzano, Italy
| | - F Maffini
- Division of Pathology, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - E Cascardi
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Aldo Moro University, Bari
| | - G Favia
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, "Aldo Moro" University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
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22
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Pagella F, Emanuelli E, Pusateri A, Borsetto D, Cazzador D, Marangoni R, Maiorano E, Zanon A, Cogliandolo C, Ciorba A, Pelucchi S. Clinical features and management of antrochoanal polyps in children: Cues from a clinical series of 58 patients. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 114:87-91. [PMID: 30262373 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2018.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the clinical features of pediatric patients affected by antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) and surgically treated at three University settings. METHODS Retrospective study. The present research includes the clinical data of subjects affected by ACPs, aged <18 years and referred to three ENT Departments, between January 1st 2003 and September 30th 2016. All patients underwent nasal endoscopy and sinonasal imaging; all subjects have been treated surgically. RESULTS Fifty-eight patients underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for ACPs removal, under general anesthesia. There were no major intraoperative complications. Recurrence occurred in 12 cases (20.5%). CONCLUSIONS FESS was the first-choice treatment for APCs in the present series; our recurrence rate was similar to that of other reports available in literature. Recurrences of ACPs in children still represent a clinical challenge; it is likely that an improved comprehension of ACPs biology could help in better understanding the pathophysiology of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pagella
- ENT Department, I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Enzo Emanuelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pusateri
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Daniele Borsetto
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Cazzador
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Roberta Marangoni
- ENT Department, I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Maiorano
- ENT Department, I.R.C.C.S. Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessia Zanon
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Ciorba
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, Italy.
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23
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Favia G, Tempesta A, Limongelli L, Crincoli V, Maiorano E. Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: Surgical or non-surgical treatment? Oral Dis 2018; 24:238-242. [PMID: 29480596 DOI: 10.1111/odi.12764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a severe side effect of antiresorptive (bisphosphonates and denosumab) and anti-angiogenic therapy used in the management of oncologic and, less frequently, osteoporotic patients. While there is good international agreement on the diagnostic and staging criteria of MRONJ and the cessation of antiresorptive/anti-angiogenic treatments, the gold standard of treatment is still controversial, in particular between non-surgical and surgical approaches. The former usually includes antiseptic mouth rinse, cyclic antibiotic therapy, low-level laser therapy and periodic dental checks; the latter consists of surgical necrotic bone removal. The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe the therapeutic approaches and outcomes of 131 lesions from 106 MRONJ patients treated at the Policlinic of Bari. Non-surgical treatments were chosen for 24 lesions that occurred in 21 patients who, due to comorbidities and/or the impossibility of stopping oncologic therapies, could not undergo surgical treatment. As to the outcome, all the surgically treated lesions (107) showed complete healing, with the exception of 13.5% of the lesions, all of which were stage III, which did not completely heal but showed reduction to stage I. The 24 non-surgically treated lesions never completely healed and, rather, generally remained stable. Only two cases exhibited a reduction in staging. Based on our observations, MRONJ occurring both in neoplastic and non-neoplastic patients benefits more from a surgical treatment approach, whenever deemed possible, as non-surgical treatments do not seem to allow complete healing of the lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Favia
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | - A Tempesta
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | - L Limongelli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | - V Crincoli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Operating Unit of Pathological Anatomy, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
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24
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Capodiferro S, Maiorano E, Tempesta A, Limongelli L, Favia G. Ulcerated nodules of the tongue. Neth J Med 2018; 76:347. [PMID: 30220665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Capodiferro
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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25
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Abstract
Cells with argyrophil granules were searched for in 131 consecutive specimens obtained from endometrial curettage. Particular care was taken with the fixation methods to avoid a false positivity to the silver impregnation according to Grimelius. We did not consider the grossly argyrophilic positivity on the cellular apex or of the whole cytoplasm, which was partially reduced by diastase digestion and probably due to the presence of glycogen and secretory mucoproteins. Cells with thin argyrophilic granules similar to those observed in endocrine APUD cells were present among glandular cells and/or among stromal cells in 15 of 131 examined specimens. They concerned 5 cases of proliferative endometrium, 3 of secretive endometrium, 5 of hyperplasia, and 2 of carcinoma. In 8 of the 15 cases with argyrophilic cells, immunohistochemical studies with the PAP method showed cells with the presence of FSH, S-100 protein, somatostatin, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), gastrin, and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). The significance and origin of these cells in normal and neoplastic endometrium are discussed.
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Paradiso A, Marubini E, Verderio P, Cortese M, Pizzamiglio S, De Paola F, Silvestrini R, Simone G, Sarotto I, Carcangiu M, Menard S, Tagliabue E, Mottolese M, Benevolo M, Bisceglia M, Giardina E, Maiorano E, Napoli A, Querzoli P, Nenci I, Pedriali M, Rinaldi R, Bianchi S, Vezzosi V, Collecchi P, Bevilacqua G, Colombari R, Caneva A, Gasparin P, Rucca V, Morigi F, De Paola F, Dubini A, Gaudio M, Medri L, Padovani F, Saragoni L, Volpi A, Granato A, Marinaro E, Folicaldi S, Ghidoni D, Cortecchia S, Veronese S, Galli C, Gambacorta M, Stella M, Rizzo A, Nizzoli R, Bozzetti C, Guazzi A, Naldi N, Sidoni A, Bucciarelli E, Ludovini V, Pistola L, Bernardi L, Ghisolfi G, Pecchioni C, Sapino A, Bussolati G, Barbareschi M, Dalla Palma P, Leonardi E. Interobserver Reproducibility of Immunohistochemical Her-2/Neu Assessment in Human Breast Cancer: An Update from INQAT round III. Int J Biol Markers 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/172460080502000307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The clinical interest in HER-2/neu is related to trastuzumab, a drug used to treat patients with invasive breast carcinoma overexpressing the HER-2/neu protein. It is very important to correctly identify those patients who may benefit from trastuzumab by accurate assessment of the HER-2/neu status. Of the various methods available, the Dako Herceptest for immunohistochemical assay is considered the most reliable to reach this goal. The aim of this study was to investigate within a group of Italian laboratories the reproducibility of the results of HER-2/neu assessment by means of the Dako scoring system on slides stained with the Herceptest kit. This study was also conceived as the continuation of one of our previous studies, which was similar in its aims but different in the classification criteria adopted. Our results show that, whereas the intra-observer reproducibility was generally satisfactory, the interobserver reproducibility was not. Moreover, our findings confirm that the two extreme classes (0 and 3+) are more easy to identify than the other two and that the Herceptest does not allow to discriminate optimally between scoring classes 2+ and 3+. These findings are relevant in clinical practice where the treatment choice is based on categories defined by this assay, suggesting the need of adopting educational programs and/or new reference materials to improve the assay performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - P. Verderio
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | - M.E. Cortese
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | - S. Pizzamiglio
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | | | - R. Silvestrini
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | | | | | - M.L. Carcangiu
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | - S. Menard
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | - E. Tagliabue
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan
| | - M. Mottolese
- Istituto Regina Elena per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Rome
| | - M. Benevolo
- Istituto Regina Elena per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Rome
| | - M. Bisceglia
- IRCCS - Ospedale Casa Sollievo della Sof-ferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo
| | - E. Giardina
- Azienda Os-pedaliera e Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari
| | - E. Maiorano
- Azienda Os-pedaliera e Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari
| | - A. Napoli
- Azienda Os-pedaliera e Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari
| | | | - I. Nenci
- Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara
| | | | - R. Rinaldi
- Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara
| | - S. Bianchi
- Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi e Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence
| | - V. Vezzosi
- Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi e Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence
| | | | | | | | | | | | - V. Rucca
- Os-pedale Cazzavillan, Arzignano
| | | | - F. De Paola
- U.O. Anatomia Patologica Ospedale Mor-gagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - A. Dubini
- U.O. Anatomia Patologica Ospedale Mor-gagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - M. Gaudio
- U.O. Anatomia Patologica Ospedale Mor-gagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - L. Medri
- U.O. Anatomia Patologica Ospedale Mor-gagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - F. Padovani
- U.O. Anatomia Patologica Ospedale Mor-gagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - L. Saragoni
- U.O. Anatomia Patologica Ospedale Mor-gagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - A. Volpi
- U.O. Oncologia Medica, Os-pedale Morgagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | - A.M. Granato
- U.O. Oncologia Medica, Os-pedale Morgagni-Pierantoni, Forlì
| | | | | | | | | | | | - C. Galli
- Azienda Os-pedaliera Niguarda, Milan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - A. Sidoni
- Anatomia Patologica, Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico Monteluce, Perugia
| | - E. Bucciarelli
- Anatomia Patologica, Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico Monteluce, Perugia
| | - V. Ludovini
- Oncologia Medica, Azienda Os-pedaliera Policlinico Monteluce, Perugia
| | - L. Pistola
- Oncologia Medica, Azienda Os-pedaliera Policlinico Monteluce, Perugia
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Carinci F, Lo Muzio L, Piattelli A, Rubini C, Chiesa F, Ionna F, Palmieri A, Maiorano E, Pastore A, Laino G, Dolci M, Pezzetti F. Potential Markers of Tongue Tumor Progression Selected by cDNA Micro Array. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 18:513-24. [PMID: 16164832 DOI: 10.1177/039463200501800311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the most frequent malignant tumor of the oral cavity, generally exhibits a poor prognosis and metastases are the main cause of death. This tumor often arises from pre-malignant lesions. To date, it is difficult to predict if and which pre-malignant lesions may progress into oral SCC using traditional methods. For these reasons, several studies are trying to identify markers useful in the progression of pre-malignant lesions and tumors. To define the genetic expression profile of tongue tumor progression we compared 9 dysplasias (DS), 8 tumors without metastasis (TWM), 11 metastasizing SCCs (MT) of the tongue, and a baseline of 11 normal tissues by using cDNA microarray containing 19.2 K clones. We initially applied hierarchical agglomerative clustering based on information from all 6026 clones. Results were obtained by performing a two steps analysis: a Significance Analysis of Microarray (SAM) and a Gene Ontology search. One hundred and five clones have statistically significant different expression levels (FDR <0.01) between DS and TWM, whereas 570 genes have statistically significant difference expression levels between TWM and MT (FDR <0.01) as detected by SAM. By filtering with FatiGo only 33 genes were differentially expressed in TWN, respect to DS, whereas 155 genes were differentially expressed in MT respect to TWM. We detected some genes which encode for oncogenes, transcription factors and cell cycle regulators as potential markers of DS progression. Examples are BAG4, PAX3 and CCNI, respectively. Among potential markers of metastases are some genes related to cell mobility (TSPAN-2 and SNTA1), intercellular adhesion (integrin alpha 7) or extracellular matrix components (ADAMTS2 and cathepsin O). Additionally, under-expressed genes encoded apoptosis-related proteins (PDCD4 and CASP4). In conclusion, we identified several genes differentially expressed in tumor progression which can potentially help in better classifying premalignant lesions and tongue SCCs.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Algorithms
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/diagnosis
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/genetics
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/pathology
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/surgery
- DNA, Complementary/genetics
- DNA, Neoplasm/genetics
- Disease Progression
- Female
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Metastasis
- Neoplasm Staging
- Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis
- Precancerous Conditions/classification
- Precancerous Conditions/genetics
- Precancerous Conditions/metabolism
- Software
- Tongue/pathology
- Tongue Neoplasms/diagnosis
- Tongue Neoplasms/genetics
- Tongue Neoplasms/metabolism
- Tongue Neoplasms/surgery
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Affiliation(s)
- F Carinci
- Section of Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Ferrara, Italy
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Capodiferro S, Scully C, Ficarra G, De Frenza G, Grassi R, Maiorano E, Favia G, Mastrangelo F, Tetè S. Orofacial Granulomatosis: Report of Two Cases with Gingival Onset. EUR J INFLAMM 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1721727x0700500109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Orofacial granulomatosis is a unifying term comprising a variety of clinical conditions involving the face and the oral cavity and histologically characterized by the presence of chronic granulomatous inflammation. Lip swelling and erythema are the most frequent clinical signs. We report on the clinical-pathological features and the management of two cases of orofacial granulomatosis characterized by gingival onset, without other local and systemic manifestations. The diagnosis of orofacial granulomatosis with gingival onset is made by the exclusion of other conditions exhibiting gingival inflammation and/or enlargement. Detailed medical history, haematological investigations and gingival biopsy are fundamental for the definitive diagnosis. Though infrequent, orofacial granulomatosis with gingival involvement should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hyperplastic gingivitis of uncertain origin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C. Scully
- Eastman Dental Institute for Oral Health Care Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - G. Ficarra
- Eastman Dental Institute for Oral Health Care Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - E. Maiorano
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, University of Bari, Bari
| | | | - F. Mastrangelo
- Department of Oral Science, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - S. Tetè
- Department of Oral Science, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
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Favia G, Tempesta A, Limongelli L, Suppressa P, Sabbà C, Maiorano E. Diode laser treatment and clinical management of multiple oral lesions in patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2016; 54:379-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2015.08.260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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30
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Favia G, Tempesta A, Limongelli L, Maiorano E. Tuberous sclerosis: histological analysis with confocal laser scanning microscope of gingival angiofibromatosis. Pathologica 2015; 107:197-200. [PMID: 26946876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tuberous sclerosis (TS) is an autosomal dominant neuro-cutaneous syndrome characterized by multiple hamartomas in various organs, especially on skin and central nervous system. The most common features of TS include facial angiofibromas, hypomelanotic cutaneous macules, shagreen patches in the lumbar area, cerebral cortical tubers, sub-ependymal nodules, sub-ependymal giant cell astrocytomas, cardiac rhabdomyomas, and renal angiomyolipomas. Frequently oral manifestations such as fibrous hyperplasia, angiofibromas and dental enamel pitting are also observed. The aim of this case report was to describe the histological aspects of oral diffuse hyperplastic angiofibromatosis, never reported in the English literature and analyzed by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (CLSM), and to highlight the surgical implications of these aspects such as use of Diode Laser. CASE REPORT A 14-years-old female patient with TS diagnosis came to our attention for diffuse gingival hyperplasia on the mandible. Clinical examination highlighted epidermal hamartomas on the whole body, especially on the face and scalp. Pathologic hyperplastic tissue was removed by pulsed diode laser at the power of 5-6W, and the surgical samples were sent for conventional and CLSM histopathological examination. After laser excision, wounds healed quickly without complications. At CLSM examination collagen fibres, showing intense fluorescence and with variable spatial orientation, and variably sized blood vessels were noticed suggesting the diagnosis of gingival angiofibromatosis, a still unreported finding in TS patients. CONCLUSIONS CLSM analysis allows to highlight some unusual histopathological features of TS; diode laser is very effective for the treatment of gingival angiofibromatosis.
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Ricco A, Napoli A, Carluccio P, Rossi AR, Daraia B, Maiorano E, Specchia G. 164 PROGNOSTIC IMPACT OF P53 PROTEIN EXPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH MYELODYSPLASTIC SYNDROMES: A SINGLE CENTRE EXPERIENCE. Leuk Res 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s0145-2126(15)30165-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Lo Muzio L, Favia G, Lacaita M, De Lillo A, Scully C, Napoli A, Lo Russo L, Maiorano E. The contribution of histopathological examination to the diagnosis of cervico-facial actinomycosis: a retrospective analysis of 68 cases. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2014; 33:1915-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s10096-014-2165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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33
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Miccoli S, Tempesta A, Corsalini M, Maiorano E, Favia G. Oro-Facial Lymphatic Malformation: management with a new three steps Laser protocol. Ann Stomatol (Roma) 2013; 4:31-32. [PMID: 24353799 PMCID: PMC3860204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Miccoli
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - A Tempesta
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - M Corsalini
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - G Favia
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
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Parrulli R, Franco S, Petruzzi M, Maiorano E, Favia G. Pyogenic Granuloma: surgical treatment with Diode Laser. Ann Stomatol (Roma) 2013; 4:35-36. [PMID: 24353806 PMCID: PMC3860210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R Parrulli
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - S Franco
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - M Petruzzi
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - E Maiorano
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
| | - G Favia
- Complex Operating Unit of Odontostomatology and Surgery, University of Bari, Italy
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Bello S, Bonali C, Maiorano E, Di Giuseppe P, Terlizzi N, Rotondo C, Serafino L, Minosi A, Lapadula G. SAT0237 Usefulness of the mayor salivary gland ultrasonography in the evaluation of the patient affected by SICCA syndrome. Ann Rheum Dis 2013. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2012-eular.3184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Pugliese D, Maiorano E, Pascone M. Histopathological Features of Tissue Alterations Induced by Low Frequency Ultrasound with Cavitational Effects on Human Adipose Tissue. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2013; 26:541-7. [DOI: 10.1177/039463201302600230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low frequency, high energy level ultrasound (US) induces physical effects on tissues called ultrasonic cavitation (UC). Endermic US therapy has recently been proposed as a method to reduce non-invasively the amount of adipose tissue. Very few published studies have dealt with the biological effects of such therapies on human adipose tissue. The aim of this study is to evaluate, through histopathological examination, the effects of various levels of ultrasonic radiation on supravital human adipose tissue. Four ex vivo human tissue samples were treated as follows: sample 1: no US radiation; sample 2: US radiation 2,5 W/cm2 for 15 minutes; sample 3: US radiation 5 W/cm2for 15 minutes; sample 4: infiltration of 30 ml physiological saline and US radiation, 5 W/cm2 for 15 minutes. For lower levels of ultrasonic energy, interruption of the adipocytic membranes was evident both in the surface and in the deeper cutaneous and subcutaneous layers, with focal dissolution and homogenization of the surface dermal fascia. For higher levels of ultrasonic energy, alterations of the adipocytes and of the collagen fibers were greater, resulting in the dissolution of the cells and of the interlobular fibrous septa. Both effects were amplified by tumescent saline infiltration. The histological lesions demonstrated in adipocytes confirm the theoretical premises of a possible usefulness in the treatment of localized adiposis. The alterations observed in the connective stroma could have positive effects on the structural re—organization and consequently on the in vivo external appearance of the treated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Pugliese
- Internal Medicine Unit, Policlinico Universitario di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - E. Maiorano
- Department of Pathology, University of Bari, Policlinico Universitario di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - M. Pascone
- Institute of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Bari, Policlinico Universitario di Bari, Bari, Italy
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Lorusso P, Capodiferro S, Cavallera C, Maiorano E, Favia G. Extra-lesional photocoagulation of oral large hemangiomas by diode laser 810: histological and confocal analysis of 20 cases. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal 2012. [DOI: 10.4317/medoral.17643671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Viale G, Regan MM, Dell'Orto P, Mastropasqua MG, Maiorano E, Rasmussen BB, MacGrogan G, Forbes JF, Paridaens RJ, Colleoni M, Láng I, Thürlimann B, Mouridsen H, Mauriac L, Gelber RD, Price KN, Goldhirsch A, Gusterson BA, Coates AS. Which patients benefit most from adjuvant aromatase inhibitors? Results using a composite measure of prognostic risk in the BIG 1-98 randomized trial. Ann Oncol 2011; 22:2201-7. [PMID: 21335417 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdq738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND On average, aromatase inhibitors are better than tamoxifen when used as initial or sequential therapy for postmenopausal women with endocrine-responsive early breast cancer. Because there may be contraindications to their use based on side-effects or cost, we investigated subgroups in which aromatase inhibitors may be more or less important. PATIENTS AND METHODS Breast International Group 1-98 trial randomized 6182 women among four groups comparing letrozole and tamoxifen with sequences of each agent; 5177 (84%) had centrally confirmed estrogen receptor (ER) positivity. We assessed whether centrally determined ER, progesterone receptor (PgR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, and Ki-67 labeling index, alone or in combination with other prognostic features, predicted the magnitude of letrozole effectiveness compared with either sequence or tamoxifen monotherapy. RESULTS Individually, none of the markers significantly predicted differential treatment effects. Subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot analysis of a composite measure of prognostic risk revealed three patterns. Estimated 5-year disease-free survival for letrozole monotherapy, letrozole→tamoxifen, tamoxifen→letrozole, and tamoxifen monotherapy were 96%, 94%, 93%, and 94%, respectively, for patients at lowest risk; 90%, 91%, 93%, and 86%, respectively, for patients at intermediate risk; and 80%, 76%, 74%, and 69%, respectively, for patients at highest risk. CONCLUSION A composite measure of risk informs treatment selection better than individual biomarkers and supports the choice of 5 years of letrozole for patients at highest risk for recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Viale
- International Breast Cancer Study Group Central Pathology Office, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, European Institute of Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Lucchese A, Favia G, Maiorano E, Napoli A, Zanna P, Cicero R, Guida G. Oral malignant melanoma: immunopathological analysis of a multiphasic case. Clin Exp Dermatol 2010; 35:789-91. [PMID: 20831603 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2010.03801.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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40
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Salvaterra R, Valle MD, Campana S, Chincarini G, Covino S, D’Avanzo P, Fernández-Soto A, Guidorzi C, Mannucci F, Margutti R, Thöne CC, Antonelli LA, Barthelmy SD, De Pasquale M, D’Elia V, Fiore F, Fugazza D, Hunt LK, Maiorano E, Marinoni S, Marshall FE, Molinari E, Nousek J, Pian E, Racusin JL, Stella L, Amati L, Andreuzzi G, Cusumano G, Fenimore EE, Ferrero P, Giommi P, Guetta D, Holland ST, Hurley K, Israel GL, Mao J, Markwardt CB, Masetti N, Pagani C, Palazzi E, Palmer DM, Piranomonte S, Tagliaferri G, Testa V. GRB 090423 at a redshift of z ≈ 8.1. Nature 2009; 461:1258-60. [PMID: 19865166 DOI: 10.1038/nature08445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 358] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2009] [Accepted: 08/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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41
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Favia G, Pilolli GP, Maiorano E. Histologic and histomorphometric features of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws: an analysis of 31 cases with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Bone 2009; 45:406-13. [PMID: 19450715 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2009.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2008] [Revised: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 05/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients undergoing bisphosphonate therapies may develop jaw lesions, mainly consisting in bone necrosis. No effective treatment has been proposed so far for such lesions, nor is there a uniform concept on the possible pathogenesis of this entity. METHODS The study population included 31 patients with bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws and 10 healthy donors. All patients underwent to jaw bone biopsy and the tissue samples were divided into two parts, one of which was fixed, decalcified and routinely processed. The second part was fixed, embedded in methylmetacrylate, cut and stained with methylene blue and basic fuchsine. All samples were subjected to light and confocal microscopic examination and to histomorphometric analyses to evaluate differences in bone structure between the two samples groups. RESULTS Three main histological patterns were identified in ONJ patients: 1 - Areas with active acute inflammation, characterized by predominance of soft tissues, inflammatory infiltrate, acellular necrotic debris, thin-walled and dilated blood vessel, intensely basophilic bone spiculae with scalloped borders showing prominent bone resorption. 2 - Areas characterized by predominance of bony structures showing wide acellular necrotic sequestra and large, scalloped Haversian canals containing inflammatory cells. 3 - Non-necrotic areas contained larger amounts of bone, showing increased trabecular thickness, inter-osteonic bone deposition and smaller and fewer Haversian canals. These differences were more evident after comparing the histomorphometrical data of samples from ONJ patients with controls. Also, lamellar bone from treated patients was composed of bigger osteones containing larger osteocytes. Two different types of newly-formed woven bone, mainly showing centrifugal spatial orientation, were easily detectable in these areas. Osteoclast-like cells detected in inflammatory areas from treated patients were small and contained few nuclei, but they were rare to absent in non-necrotic bone from the same patients. CONCLUSIONS These features point at a peculiar process of bone remodeling in patients undergoing bisphosphonate therapy, which showed scarce osteoclastic activity and subsequent deposition of newly-formed bone. The latter would be made up of thicker bone structures supplied by fewer blood vessels. Consequently, in case of increased metabolic requests, this modified bone would not be supported by adequate blood supply, thus leading to necrosis and superinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Favia
- Department of Dental Sciences and Surgery, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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Viale G, Giobbie-Hurder A, Gusterson BA, Maiorano E, Mastropasqua MG, Sonzogni A, Mallon E, Colleoni M, Castiglione-Gertsch M, Regan MM, Price KN, Brown RW, Golouh R, Crivellari D, Karlsson P, Öhlschlegel C, Gelber RD, Goldhirsch A, Coates AS. Adverse prognostic value of peritumoral vascular invasion: is it abrogated by adequate endocrine adjuvant therapy? Results from two International Breast Cancer Study Group randomized trials of chemoendocrine adjuvant therapy for early breast cancer. Ann Oncol 2009; 21:245-254. [PMID: 19633051 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdp317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peritumoral vascular invasion (PVI) may assist in assigning optimal adjuvant systemic therapy for women with early breast cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients participated in two International Breast Cancer Study Group randomized trials testing chemoendocrine adjuvant therapies in premenopausal (trial VIII) or postmenopausal (trial IX) node-negative breast cancer. PVI was assessed by institutional pathologists and/or central review on hematoxylin-eosin-stained slides in 99% of patients (analysis cohort 2754 patients, median follow-up >9 years). RESULTS PVI, present in 23% of the tumors, was associated with higher grade tumors and larger tumor size (trial IX only). Presence of PVI increased locoregional and distant recurrence and was significantly associated with poorer disease-free survival. The adverse prognostic impact of PVI in trial VIII was limited to premenopausal patients with endocrine-responsive tumors randomized to therapies not containing goserelin, and conversely the beneficial effect of goserelin was limited to patients whose tumors showed PVI. In trial IX, all patients received tamoxifen: the adverse prognostic impact of PVI was limited to patients with receptor-negative tumors regardless of chemotherapy. CONCLUSION Adequate endocrine adjuvant therapy appears to abrogate the adverse impact of PVI in node-negative disease, while PVI may identify patients who will benefit particularly from adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Viale
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, European Institute of Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - A Giobbie-Hurder
- International Breast Cancer Study Group, Statistical Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - B A Gusterson
- Division of Cancer Sciences and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - E Maiorano
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - M G Mastropasqua
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, European Institute of Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - A Sonzogni
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, European Institute of Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - E Mallon
- Division of Cancer Sciences and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - M Colleoni
- Department of Medicine, Research Unit in Medical Senology, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | | | - M M Regan
- International Breast Cancer Study Group, Statistical Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K N Price
- International Breast Cancer Study Group, Statistical Center, Frontier Science and Technology Research Foundation, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R W Brown
- Melbourne Pathology, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - R Golouh
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - D Crivellari
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico, Aviano, Italy
| | - P Karlsson
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - C Öhlschlegel
- Swiss Group for Clinical Cancer Research (SAKK), Bern, Switzerland
| | - R D Gelber
- International Breast Cancer Study Group, Statistical Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Frontier Science and Technology Research Foundation, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A Goldhirsch
- European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy; Department of Medicine, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - A S Coates
- Scientific Committee, International Breast Cancer Study Group, Bern, Switzerland; School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Mariggiò M, Cassano A, Vinella A, Vincenti A, Fumarulo R, Muzio LL, Maiorano E, Ribatti D, Favia G. Enhancement of Fibroblast Proliferation, Collagen Biosynthesis and Production of Growth Factors as a Result of Combining Sodium Hyaluronate and Aminoacids. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2009; 22:485-92. [DOI: 10.1177/039463200902200225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts play a key role in tissue healing by producing the majority of extracellular matrix components, favouring granulation tissue formation, and stimulating re-epithelialization. Hyaluronan is a component of ECM and its anti-inflammatory effects and properties in enhancing wound closure are well known. In this study, we examined the effects of Aminogam® gel, a new pharmacological preparation suggested to improve wound healing, composed of hyaluronic acid, proline, lysine, glycine and leucine, on human fibroblasts. Results show that fibroblasts treated with hyaluronic acid plus aminoacid solution increased their proliferative activity, collagen I and III, and fibronectin synthesis. Moreover, HA plus aminoacid solution increased the expression of transforming growth factor beta, connective tissue growth factor, interleukin-6 and −8, assayed by RT-PCR. These results suggested that Aminogam® gel, involved in several stages of wound healing, as fibroblast proliferation, granulation tissue formation, ECM component deposition, and production of cytokines, may be a useful device to favour and accelerate wound closure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - L. Lo Muzio
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia Medical School, Italy
| | | | - D. Ribatti
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Italy
| | - G. Favia
- Department of Dental Sciences and Surgery, University of Bari Medical School, Italy
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Barone M, Maiorano E, Scavo MP, Panella E, Castellaneta A, Napoli A, Francioso D, Di Leo A, Francavilla A. Effect of gonadectomy on HCC development in HBV transgenic mice. Dig Liver Dis 2009; 41:150-5. [PMID: 18448398 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2008.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2007] [Revised: 12/12/2007] [Accepted: 02/04/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Epidemiological data demonstrate that HCC is prevalent in men compared to women. Herein, we examined the effect of gonadectomy in a murine model that spontaneously develops HCC. ANIMALS AND METHODS Thirty-two male and 26 female HBV transgenic mice [Tg (Alb-1 HBV) Bri 44] underwent surgical castration or sham operation. At the 18th month, serum samples were collected and all mice were sacrificed. Liver weight and volume were evaluated, each liver was cut into 1.5-mm-thick consecutive slices and nodules were examined on freshly isolated tissue. Consecutive histological sections obtained from each liver slice were evaluated to confirm the diagnosis of HCC. RESULTS Sham-operated females showed a significantly lower neoplastic growth compared to sham-operated males. This difference disappeared when females underwent gonadectomy. In males, neoplastic growth was not influenced by gonadectomy. Testosterone and estradiol levels were profoundly modified by gonadectomy in both males and females. The testosterone/estradiol ratio in gonadectomized females increased 4.5-fold compared to that in sham-operated females, becoming more similar to the ratio observed in castrated and sham-operated male mice. CONCLUSIONS HCC growth in our experimental model was not simply influenced by the levels of testosterone or estradiol, taken singularly, but depended on their ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Barone
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), University of Bari, Ospedale Policlinico, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
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45
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Gigante M, Blasi A, Loverre A, Mancini V, Battaglia M, Selvaggi FP, Maiorano E, Napoli A, Castellano G, Storkus WJ, Gesualdo L, Ranieri E. Dysfunctional DC subsets in RCC patients: ex vivo correction to yield an effective anti-cancer vaccine. Mol Immunol 2008; 46:893-901. [PMID: 19041139 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2008.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2008] [Accepted: 09/08/2008] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent antigen-presenting cells responsible for the activation and functional polarization of specific T cells. In patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and other cancers, coordinate DC and T cell defects have been reported. In particular, DC and T cell functional subsets that are not conducive to tumor clearance are hypothesized to predominate in patients with advanced-stage disease. Two major peripheral blood DC subsets have been identified in humans: myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) that are believed to mediate contrasting effects on cancer immunity. Given the lack of information regarding DC subsets in patients with RCC, in the present study we have investigated the comparative frequencies and activation states of mDC and pDC in peripheral blood, cancer tissues and lymph nodes of patients with RCC using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) reactive against specific DC subsets (BDCA-2 or BDCA-4 for pDC and BDCA-1 and BDCA-3 which represent two distinct subsets of mDC, mDC1 and mDC2, respectively) were employed. We observed a significant reduction of both DC subsets in the peripheral blood of patients as compared to normal donors. Similarly, both mDC and pDC were recruited in large numbers into RCC tumor tissues, where they displayed an immature phenotype (DC-LAMP(-)) and appeared unable to differentiate into mature DC (CD83(+)) that were competent to migrate to draining lymph nodes. However, we were readily able to generate ex vivo mDC from RCC patients. These DC stimulated robust anti-tumor CTL in vitro and would be envisioned for use in DC-based vaccines applied in patients with RCC whose existing immune system is judged dysfunctional, anergic or prone to undergo apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gigante
- Bioagromed, University of Foggia, via Napoli, 71100 Foggia, Italy
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Abstract
Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) has been recently characterised as an aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, most frequently arising in the oral cavity of HIV-infected patients. To date, approximately 60 cases fulfilling the clinico-pathological characteristics of PBL have been reported. PBLs are composed of large cells with eccentrically located nuclei and deeply basophilic cytoplasm with a paranuclear hof. The tumour cells are invariably immunoreactive for the plasma cell marker CD138, and show monoclonal rearrangement of the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene (IgH) and/or clonal restriction of the Ig light chain (IgL) gene expression in most of the cases. Similar to other types of AIDS-related lymphomas, there is evidence that Epstein-Barr virus and Kaposi-sarcoma associated Human Herpes Virus 8 may play a relevant role in the pathogenesis of PBL. PBL patients have been treated heterogeneously, with a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or surgery, and their prognosis is usually poor, with a death rate of approximately 60% at 1 year.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rafaniello Raviele
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, European Institute of Oncology and University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Favia G, Maiorano E, Capodiferro S, Pilolli GP, Lacaita MG, Lajolo C, Giuliani M, Martinelli D, Germinario C. Oral squamous cell carcinoma: a mono-institutional epidemiological study on 462 cases highlighting differences among young and adult patients. Minerva Stomatol 2008; 57:413-421. [PMID: 18923376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM Despite several diagnostic and therapeutic advances, an increasing incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) especially among young individuals has been observed in different parts of the world. Aim of this study was to delineate the profile of patients with OSCC in particular among young people. METHODS Between 1977-2004, the medical records of 462 patients (mean age: 64.18 years, male-to-female ratio 2.1:1) with a diagnosis of OSCC were retrieved and successively analysed, with details of demographic data, staging, histological grading, treatment modality and risk factor profile. Overall, 43 (9.3%) patients were less of 45 years old, and among these, the male-to-female ratio was 2.9:1 with the median age of 38 years. Most patients had stage II (37.5%) or III (29.2) disease, only 9.7% of the patients had stage IV. The most common histological gradings were well or moderately differentiated (98,5%). The most common involved site was the tongue (40.1%). A large number of patients (45.4%) received treatment with either surgery alone or a combination of surgery and other adjuvant therapy (45.9%). RESULTS Collectively, these data indicate that OSCC remains a constant worldwide health problem. In addition, the occurrence of OSCC in young people is relatively high. Traditional risk habits including smoking and alcohol consumption remain the most important factors in the development of OSCC. CONCLUSION Therefore, our data suggested that the OSCC prevention with early detection, early treatment intervention, and withdrawal from risk habits must be devised and advised also for patients in southern Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Favia
- Department of Dental Sciences and Surgery Catholic University, Rome, Italy
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Viale G, Del Curto B, Orvieto E, Maiorano E. Analysis of HER1 and HER2 status in CNS metastases from patients (pts) with breast carcinoma (BC). J Clin Oncol 2008. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2008.26.15_suppl.1041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Di Leo A, Barone M, Maiorano E, Tanzi S, Piscitelli D, Marangi S, Lofano K, Ierardi E, Principi M, Francavilla A. ER-beta expression in large bowel adenomas: implications in colon carcinogenesis. Dig Liver Dis 2008; 40:260-6. [PMID: 18093886 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2007.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2007] [Revised: 10/27/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A pivotal role of oestrogen receptor-beta has been suggested in colon carcinogenesis in humans. However, few data are available on oestrogen receptor-beta in colorectal pre-cancerous lesions. AIM In the present study, we evaluated oestrogen receptor-beta expression and its possible correlation with proliferative activity and apoptosis in colorectal adenomas and normal colon tissue. PATIENTS/METHODS Adenomatous tissue from 25 patients with colonic polyps, and normal tissue from 25 controls were used. Oestrogen receptor-beta expression, colonocyte proliferation (expressed as PCNA positivity) and apoptosis were evaluated. RESULTS In adenomatous tissue, a significant reduction of oestrogen receptor-beta was observed compared to normal mucosa (10.1+/-5.5% vs. 44.2+/-13.7; p<0.03), while the expression of oestrogen receptor-alpha remained unvaried. Cell proliferative activity significantly increased in adenomatous tissue compared to normal mucosa (59.3+/-7.1 vs. 18.5+/-8.8; p<0.0001), doubling the PCNA/apoptosis ratio. An inverse correlation was found between oestrogen receptor-beta and PCNA expression in adenomas (r=-0.81), a datum confirmed by confocal microscopy evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate, for the first time, a significant reduction of oestrogen receptor-beta expression already in the pre-cancerous phase of colon carcinogenesis. This suggests a role of selective oestrogen receptor-beta agonists in the prevention of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Leo
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Bari, Italy.
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