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Censi S, Carducci S, Zoppini G, Toffalini A, Tonelli V, Manso J, Sabbadin C, Galuppini F, Pennelli G, Piva I, Barollo S, Bertazza L, Pilotto V, Basso D, Fabris B, Bernardi S, Farinati F, Scaroni C, Mian C. Calcitonin levels in autoimmune atrophic gastritis-related hypergastrinemia. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:357-365. [PMID: 37460914 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02152-x] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Calcitonin (Ct) is currently the most sensitive biochemical marker of C-cell disease (medullary thyroid cancer [MTC] and C-cell hyperplasia), but its specificity is relatively low. Our aim was to examine whether autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AAG) and chronic hypergastrinemia, with or without chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), are conditions associated with increased Ct levels. METHODS Three groups of patients were consecutively enrolled in this multicentric study: group A consisted of patients with histologically-proven AAG (n = 13; 2 males, 11 females); group B fulfilled the criteria for group A but also had AT (n = 92; 15 males, 77 females); and group C included patients with AT and without AAG (n = 37; 6 males, 31 females). RESULTS Median Ct levels did not differ between the three groups. Ct levels were undetectable in: 8/13 cases (61.5%) in group A, 70/92 (76.1%) in group B, and 27/37 (73.0%) in group C. They were detectable but ≤ 10 ng/L in 4/13 (30.8%), 20/92 (21.7%) and 7/37 (18.9%) cases, respectively; and they were > 10 ng/L in 1/13 (7.7%), 2/92 (2.2%) and 3/37 (8.1%) cases, respectively (P = 0.5). Only three patients had high Ct levels (> 10 ng/L) and high gastrin levels and had an MTC. There was no correlation between Ct and gastrin levels (P = 0.353, r = 0.0785). CONCLUSIONS High gastrin levels in patients with AAG do not explain any hypercalcitoninemia, regardless of whether patients have AT or not. This makes it mandatory to complete the diagnostic process to rule out MTC in patients with high Ct levels and AAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Censi
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - S Carducci
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - G Zoppini
- Endocrinologia, Diabetologia E Malattie del Metabolismo, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - A Toffalini
- Endocrinologia, Diabetologia E Malattie del Metabolismo, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - V Tonelli
- Endocrinologia, Diabetologia E Malattie del Metabolismo, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - J Manso
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Woman's and Child 's Health-Pediatric Endocrinology and Adolescence Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - C Sabbadin
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - F Galuppini
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Surgical Pathology & Cytopathology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - G Pennelli
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Surgical Pathology & Cytopathology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - I Piva
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - S Barollo
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - L Bertazza
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - V Pilotto
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DiSCOG), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - D Basso
- Laboratory Medicine, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - B Fabris
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche E Della Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - S Bernardi
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche E Della Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - F Farinati
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DiSCOG), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - C Scaroni
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - C Mian
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Endocrinology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Endocrinology Unit, Via Ospedale N.105, 35128, Padua, Italy.
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Farini R, Leandro G, Farinati F, Di Mario F, Scalabrin G, Mazzucato B, Cecchetto A, Naccarato R. Epithelial Dysplasia in Endoscopic Gastric Mucosal Biopsies. Tumori 2018; 67:589-98. [PMID: 7336486 DOI: 10.1177/030089168106700614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
To define the frequency of gastric epithelial dysplasia (precancerous lesion), 1463 biopsies from 842 endoscopically studied patients were reassessed. Mild dysplasia was found in 19.9 % of the cases, moderate in 4.1 %, severe in 0.95 %. Since the clinical and biological significance of the lesion is still an open question, indications for follow-up are discussed in the light of personal views, together with a critical evaluation of the recently proposed classifications.
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Schiavinato A, Zanetto A, Pantano G, Tosato F, Nabergoj M, Fogar P, Piva E, Gambato M, Franceschet E, Floreani A, Farinati F, Burra P, Russo FP, Plebani M. Polyclonal and monoclonal B lymphocytes response in HCV-infected patients treated with direct-acting antiviral agents. J Viral Hepat 2017. [PMID: 28643451 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection can be associated with extrahepatic manifestations such as mixed cryoglobulinaemia and lymphoproliferative disorders that are endowed with increased rates of morbidity and all-cause mortality. In this study, we used flow cytometry to evaluate the effect of interferon-free antiviral treatment on peripheral blood lymphocytes in HCV-infected patients with or without associated lymphoproliferative disorders. Flow cytometry analysis of peripheral blood lymphocytes was performed at baseline and at the end of treatment. In HCV-infected patients with lymphoproliferative disorders, we evaluated immunoglobulin (Ig) light chain κ/λ ratio variations as a measure of monoclonal B-cell response to antiviral therapy. Healthy volunteers were enrolled as controls. A total of 29 patients were included, nine with and 20 without lymphoproliferative disorders. Sustained virological response was achieved in 29 of 29 patients. We observed a significant reduction in the B-cell compartment (39% global reduction) in eight of nine HCV-infected patients with lymphoproliferative disorders after viral clearance. We recognized the same trend, even if less pronounced, in HCV-infected patients without lymphoproliferative disorders (9% global reduction). Among HCV-infected patients with lymphoproliferative disorders, three showed an improvement/normalization of the immunoglobulin light chain ratio, whereas in the remaining six patients monoclonal B cells persisted to be clonally restricted even 1 year after the end of treatment. Our data show that DAAs treatment can be effective in reducing the frequency of pathological B cells in the peripheral blood of HCV-infected patients affected by HCV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders; however, monoclonal populations can persist after viral eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Schiavinato
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A Zanetto
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - G Pantano
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - F Tosato
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M Nabergoj
- Department of Hematology and Clinical Immunology, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - P Fogar
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - E Piva
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M Gambato
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - E Franceschet
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - A Floreani
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - F Farinati
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - P Burra
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - F P Russo
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - M Plebani
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Petta S, Cabibbo G, Barbara M, Attardo S, Bucci L, Farinati F, Giannini EG, Tovoli F, Ciccarese F, Rapaccini GL, Di Marco M, Caturelli E, Zoli M, Borzio F, Sacco R, Virdone R, Marra F, Felder M, Morisco F, Benvegnù L, Gasbarrini A, Svegliati-Baroni G, Foschi FG, Olivani A, Masotto A, Nardone G, Colecchia A, Persico M, Boccaccio V, Craxì A, Bruno S, Trevisani F, Cammà C. Hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence in patients with curative resection or ablation: impact of HCV eradication does not depend on the use of interferon. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:160-168. [PMID: 27790734 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 08/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In HCV-infected cirrhotic patients with successfully treated early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the time to HCC recurrence and the effects of sustained viral eradication (SVR) by interferon (IFN)-based or IFN-free regimens on HCC recurrence remain unclear. AIM To perform an indirect comparison of time to recurrence (TTR) in patients with successfully treated early HCC and active HCV infection with those of patients with SVR by IFN-based and by IFN-free regimens. METHODS We evaluated 443 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Stage A/0 HCC who had a complete radiological response after curative resection or ablation. Active HCV infection was present in 328, selected from the Italian Liver Cancer group cohort; 58 patients had SVR achieved by IFN-free regimens after HCC cure, and 57 patients had SVR achieved by IFN-based regimens after HCC cure. Individual data of patients in the last two groups were extracted from available publications. RESULTS TTR by Kaplan-Meier curve was significantly lower in patients with active HCV infection compared with those with SVR both by IFN-free (P = 0.02) and by IFN-based (P < 0.001) treatments. TTR was similar in patients with SVR by IFN-free or by IFN-based (P = 0.49) strategies. CONCLUSION In HCV-infected, successfully treated patients with early HCC, SVR obtained by IFN-based or IFN-free regimens significantly reduce tumour recurrence without differences related to the anti-viral strategy used.
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Zordan M, Farinati F, Nitti D, Levis A, Naccarato R. Normal and Pathological Human Liver Dimethylnitrosamine Demethylase Activity and Capacity for 2-Aminofluorene and Nitrosopyrrolidine Activation in vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/096032718900800242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Zordan
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Universita di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - F. Farinati
- Divisione di Gastroenterologia Universita di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - D. Nitti
- Instituto di Patologia Chirurgica I, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A.G. Levis
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Universita di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - R. Naccarato
- Divisione di Gastroenterologia Universita di Padova, Padova, Italy
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Cucchetti A, Trevisani F, Bucci L, Ravaioli M, Farinati F, Giannini EG, Ciccarese F, Piscaglia F, Rapaccini GL, Di Marco M, Caturelli E, Zoli M, Borzio F, Sacco R, Maida M, Felder M, Morisco F, Gasbarrini A, Gemini S, Foschi FG, Missale G, Masotto A, Affronti A, Bernardi M, Pinna AD. Years of life that could be saved from prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:814-24. [PMID: 26864152 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) causes premature death and loss of life expectancy worldwide. Its primary and secondary prevention can result in a significant number of years of life saved. AIM To assess how many years of life are lost after HCC diagnosis. METHODS Data from 5346 patients with first HCC diagnosis were used to estimate lifespan and number of years of life lost after tumour onset, using a semi-parametric extrapolation having as reference an age-, sex- and year-of-onset-matched population derived from national life tables. RESULTS Between 1986 and 2014, HCC lead to an average of 11.5 years-of-life lost for each patient. The youngest age-quartile group (18-61 years) had the highest number of years-of-life lost, representing approximately 41% of the overall benefit obtainable from prevention. Advancements in HCC management have progressively reduced the number of years-of-life lost from 12.6 years in 1986-1999, to 10.7 in 2000-2006 and 7.4 years in 2007-2014. Currently, an HCC diagnosis when a single tumour <2 cm results in 3.7 years-of-life lost while the diagnosis when a single tumour ≥ 2 cm or 2/3 nodules still within the Milan criteria, results in 5.0 years-of-life lost, representing the loss of only approximately 5.5% and 7.2%, respectively, of the entire lifespan from birth. CONCLUSIONS Hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence results in the loss of a considerable number of years-of-life, especially for younger patients. In recent years, the increased possibility of effectively treating this tumour has improved life expectancy, thus reducing years-of-life lost.
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Bucci L, Garuti F, Camelli V, Lenzi B, Farinati F, Giannini EG, Ciccarese F, Piscaglia F, Rapaccini GL, Di Marco M, Caturelli E, Zoli M, Borzio F, Sacco R, Maida M, Felder M, Morisco F, Gasbarrini A, Gemini S, Foschi FG, Missale G, Masotto A, Affronti A, Bernardi M, Trevisani F. Comparison between alcohol- and hepatitis C virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma: clinical presentation, treatment and outcome. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:385-99. [PMID: 26662476 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and alcohol abuse are the main risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Western countries. AIM To investigate the role of alcoholic aetiology on clinical presentation, treatment and outcome of HCC as well as on each Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage, as compared to HCV-related HCCs. METHODS A total of 1642 HCV and 573 alcoholic patients from the Italian Liver Cancer (ITA.LI.CA) database, diagnosed with HCC between January 2000 and December 2012 were compared for age, gender, type of diagnosis, tumour burden, portal vein thrombosis (PVT), oesophageal varices, liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein, BCLC, treatment and survival. Aetiology was tested as predictor of survival in multivariate Cox regression models and according to HCC stages. RESULTS Cirrhosis was present in 96% of cases in both groups. Alcoholic patients were younger, more likely male, with HCC diagnosed outside surveillance, in intermediate/terminal BCLC stage and had worse liver function. After adjustment for the lead-time, median (95% CI) overall survival (OS) was 27.4 months (21.5-33.2) in alcoholic and 33.6 months (30.7-36.5) in HCV patients (P = 0.021). The prognostic role of aetiology disappeared when survival was assessed in each BCLC stage and in the Cox regression multivariate models. CONCLUSIONS Alcoholic aetiology affects survival of HCC patients through its negative effects on secondary prevention and cancer presentation but not through a greater cancer aggressiveness or worse treatment result. In fact, survival adjusted for confounding factors was similar in alcoholic and HCV patients.
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Biselli M, Conti F, Gramenzi A, Frigerio M, Cucchetti A, Fatti G, D'Angelo M, Dall'Agata M, Giannini EG, Farinati F, Ciccarese F, Andreone P, Bernardi M, Trevisani F. A new approach to the use of α-fetoprotein as surveillance test for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis. Br J Cancer 2014; 112:69-76. [PMID: 25314061 PMCID: PMC4453600 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2014.536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is recommended in patients with cirrhosis. As α-fetoprotein (AFP) is considered a poor surveillance test, we tested the performance of its changes over time. METHODS Eighty patients were diagnosed with HCC (cases) during semiannual surveillance with ultrasonography and AFP measurement were recruited and matched for age, gender, etiology and Child-Pugh class with 160 contemporary cancer-free controls undergoing the same surveillance training group (TG). As a validation group (VG) we considered 36 subsequent patients diagnosed with HCC, matched 1 : 3 with contemporary cancer-free controls. α-Fetoprotein values at the time of HCC diagnosis (T0) and its changes over the 12 (Δ12) and 6 months (Δ6) before cancer detection were considered. RESULTS In both TG and VG, >80% of HCCs were found at an early stage. In TG, AFP significantly increased over time only in cases. T0 AFP and a positive Δ6 were independently associated with HCC diagnosis (odds ratio: 1.031 and 2.402, respectively). The area under the curve of T0 AFP was 0.76 and its best cutoff (BC) was 10 ng ml(-1) (sensitivity 66.3%, specificity 80.6%). The combination of AFP >10 ng ml(-1) or a positive Δ6 composite α-fetoprotein index (CAI) increased the sensitivity to 80% with a negative predictive value (NPV) of 86.2%. Negative predictive value rose to 99%, considering a cancer prevalence of 3%. In the VG, the AFP-BC was again 10 ng ml(-1) (sensitivity 66.7%, specificity 88.9%), and CAI sensitivity was 80.6% with a NPV value of 90.5%. CONCLUSIONS CAI achieves adequate sensitivity and NPV as a surveillance test for the early detection of HCC in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Biselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Conti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Gramenzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Frigerio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Cucchetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Fatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M D'Angelo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Dall'Agata
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E G Giannini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Unità di Gastroenterologia, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - F Farinati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche, Unità di Gastroenterologia, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - F Ciccarese
- Divisione di Chirurgia, Policlinico San Marco, Zingonia, Italy
| | - P Andreone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Bernardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Trevisani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Cardin R, Piciocchi M, Farinati F. Letter: coffee and chronic liver damage. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:643. [PMID: 24588252 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12637] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Cardin
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Gastroenterology, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
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Scarpa R, Alaggio R, Norberto L, Furmaniak J, Chen S, Smith BR, Masiero S, Morlin L, Plebani M, De Luca F, Salerno MC, Giordano R, Radetti G, Ghizzoni L, Tonini G, Farinati F, Betterle C. Tryptophan hydroxylase autoantibodies as markers of a distinct autoimmune gastrointestinal component of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:704-12. [PMID: 23365130 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-2734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoantibodies to tryptophan hydroxylase (TPHAbs) directed against serotonin-producing enterochromaffin cells (EC) have been reported in autoimmune-polyendocrine-syndrome type 1 (APS-1) patients with gastrointestinal dysfunction (GID). Serotonin plays a critical role in enteric function and its peripheral blood levels reflect serotonin release from the gastrointestinal tract. AIMS We test the hypothesis that TPHAbs mark a distinct autoimmune component of APS-1 characterized by an autoimmune attack toward EC, which results in clinical GID. METHODS TPHAbs were measured in 64 APS-1 patients. Endoscopy with gastric (antrum/body) and duodenal biopsy was carried in 16 TPHAbs+ patients (8 with and 8 without GID) and in 2 TPHAbs- patients (without GID). Immunohistochemistry of biopsy specimens was carried out using antibodies to serotonin, chromogranin-A, CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD20. Serotonin serum levels were measured in TPHAbs+ and TPHAbs- patients who had endoscopy. RESULTS Thirty-seven of 64 patients were TPHAbs+ (11/12 with GID and 26/52 without GID; P < .001). Gastric and duodenal biopsies in all 8 TPHAb+ patients with GID showed lymphocytic infiltration with increased CD3+CD8+ intraepithelial lymphocytes and absence of EC. Furthermore, mean serotonin serum levels were below the normal range in TPHAb+ patients with GID (P < .01). In 8 TPHAb+ patients without GID gastric and duodenal biopsies showed different grades of inflammatory infiltration and reduced number of EC. Mean serotonin serum levels were near the lower limit of the normal range. In all TPHAbs+ patients the biopsies showed a reduced number of chromogranin-A positive cells consistent with enteroendocrine cells depletion. TPHAbs- patients without GID showed normal gastrointestinal mucosa and serotonin serum levels. CONCLUSIONS TPHAbs appear to be markers of a distinct autoimmune component of APS-1. Progressive involvement of the gastrointestinal EC leads to the transition from preclinical to clinical disease, characterized by GID and reduced serotonin serum levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Scarpa
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua 35128, Italy
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Rugge M, Fassan M, Pizzi M, Zorzetto V, Maddalo G, Realdon S, De Bernard M, Betterle C, Cappellesso R, Pennelli G, de Boni M, Farinati F. Autoimmune gastritis: histology phenotype and OLGA staging. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 35:1460-6. [PMID: 22519568 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2012.05101.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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: 02/27/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among Western populations, the declining incidence of Helicobacter pylori infection coincides with a growing clinical impact of autoimmune gastritis. AIMS To describe the histological phenotype of autoimmune gastritis, also to test the prognostic impact of OLGA staging in the autoimmune setting. METHODS A single-institutional series (spanning the years 2003-2011) of 562 consecutive patients (M:F ratio: 1:3.7; mean age = 57.6 ± 14.4 years) with serologically confirmed autoimmune gastritis underwent histology review and OLGA staging. RESULTS Helicobacter pylori infection was ascertained histologically in 44/562 cases (7.8%). Forty six biopsy sets (8.2%) featured OLGA stages III-IV; they included all four cases of incidental epithelial neoplasia (three intraepithelial and one invasive; three of these four cases had concomitant H. pylori infection). There were 230 (40.9%) and 139 (24.7%) cases, respectively, of linear and micro-nodular enterochromaffin-like cell hyperplasia; 19 (3.4%) type I carcinoids were detected. The series included 116 patients who underwent repeated endoscopy/biopsy sampling (mean time elapsing between the two procedures = 54 months; range 24-108). Paired histology showed a significant (P = 0.009) trend towards a stage progression [the stage increased in 25/116 cases (22%); it remained unchanged in 87/116 cases (75%)]. CONCLUSIONS In autoimmune gastritis, the cancer risk is restricted to high-risk gastritis stages (III-IV), and is associated mainly with concomitant H. pylori infection. OLGA staging consistently depicts the time-dependent organic progression of the autoimmune disease and provides key information for secondary gastric cancer prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rugge
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, PD, Italy.
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Giannini EG, Bodini G, Corbo M, Savarino V, Risso D, Di Nolfo MA, Del Poggio P, Benvegnù L, Farinati F, Zoli M, Borzio F, Caturelli E, Chiaramonte M, Trevisani F. Impact of evidence-based medicine on the treatment of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 31:493-501. [PMID: 19912152 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2009.04198.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A randomized controlled trial performed by the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) published in 2002 demonstrated that transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is an effective treatment for well-selected patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). AIM To access whether this information has modified the use of TACE in clinical practice. METHODS From 2042 HCC patients included in the Italian Liver Cancer database, we selected 336 cases diagnosed over two 4-year periods (1999-2002, n = 161 and 2003-2006, n = 175), fulfilling the inclusion criteria of the BCLC study. These groups were compared for TACE application rate, patient characteristics and survival. RESULTS Patients undergoing TACE increased in the 2003-2006 period (from 62% to 73%, P = 0.035), with an increase in of Child-Pugh class A (from 64% to 77%, P = 0.048) and advanced HCC patients (from 54% to 69%, P = 0.041). In the 1999-2002 period, there was no significant difference in survival between TACE-treated and untreated patients, while in the 2003-2006 period, TACE-treated patients survived longer (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Following the publication of studies providing evidence of a survival benefit of TACE in selected patients with unresectable HCC, significantly more patients with well-compensated cirrhosis underwent TACE within this very homogenous population, leading to an increased survival despite a more advanced tumour stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Giannini
- Cattedra di Gastroenterologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy.
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13
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Vitale A, Saracino E, Boccagni P, Brolese A, D'Amico F, Gringeri E, Neri D, Srsen N, Valmasoni M, Zanus G, Carraro A, Violi P, Pauletto A, Bassi D, Polacco M, Burra P, Farinati F, Feltracco P, Romano A, D'Amico D, Cillo U. Validation of the BCLC Prognostic System in Surgical Hepatocellular Cancer Patients. Transplant Proc 2009; 41:1260-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2009.03.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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14
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De Martin E, Senzolo M, Boninsegna S, Guido M, Masier A, Germani G, Tomat S, Brolese A, Neri D, Cillo U, Gambato M, Russo FP, Farinati F, Burra P. HCV histological recurrence and survival following liver transplantation in patients with and without hepatocellular carcinoma. Transplant Proc 2008; 40:1974-5. [PMID: 18675104 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2008.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis is one of the leading indication for liver transplantation (LT) and a major risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCV recurrence after LT is universal. This study evaluated HCV recurrence and survival in patients transplanted for HCV and HCC. METHODS We evaluated all adults transplanted for HCV cirrhosis between January 1999 and December 2006, HCC was diagnosed on the explant and HCV recurrence confirmed on protocol liver biopsies performed at 6 months and yearly after LT. The sustained viral response (SVR) was defined as HCV-RNA undetectable at 6 months after therapy discontinuation. The patient survival rates were assessed with Kaplan-Meier curves and the chi-square test was used when appropriate. RESULTS Two hundred sixteen patients underwent LT for HCV including 153 men and 63 women of mean age 54 years with a mean follow-up of 35 months. There were 71 (33%) HCC(+) patients. At 1, 3, and 5 years from LT severe fibrosis (Scheuer 3-4) due to the HCV recurrence was reported in 18%, 14%, and 11% for HCC(+) and 14%, 16%, and 28% for HCC(-) patients respectively (P=NS). HCC recurred only in 3 (4%) patients at a mean follow-up of 3 years. Patients who received antiviral treatment after LT were 10% HCC(+) and 12% HCC(-) patients (P=NS). SVR was seen in 3/7 (43%) of HCC(+) and in 10/18 (55%) of HCC(-) patients (P=NS). At 1, 3, and 5 years the patient survivals was 91%, 86%, and 86% for HCC(+) and 94%, 86%, and 83% for HCC(-) patients, respectively (P=NS). CONCLUSIONS Severe fibrosis due to HCV recurrence, which increases over time, involves one third of transplanted patients at 5 years after LT. The long-term survival was identical among HCC(+) compared to HCC(-) recipients. The recurrence of HCC was negligible and did not affect patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- E De Martin
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Gastroenterology, Padova University, Padova, Italy
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15
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Abstract
The Fas / Fas-ligand (FasL) system is an important death signal pathway in the liver. An enhanced local inflammatory response prompted by FasL expression, which contributes to neutrophil recruitment and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) release, seems to be crucial to chronic liver damage, persistence of viral infections, and probably initiation and / or promotion of HCC. In order to evaluate the expression of Fas, FasL, and IL-1beta in different stages of human liver disease and to determine whether hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections modulate their expression, also in relation to apoptosis, we examined 87 liver samples obtained from patients with: chronic hepatitis (CH) (n.42), cirrhosis (n.9) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (n.16) and corresponding peritumoural tissues (n.16); histologically-normal liver (n.4) as controls. Fas, FasL and IL-1beta mRNA were quantified using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The apoptotic index was evaluated by TUNEL analysis. Our data showed a progressive Fas / FasL increase from CH to cirrhosis followed by a decline from the latter to HCC. In histological sections apoptosis was detected in HCC. A significant difference emerged between HCV and HBV-related disease for IL-1beta expression only in CH. A significant positive correlation between IL-1beta and FasL in HCV-related disease (P = 0.014) and an inverse correlation between IL-1beta and Fas in HBV-related disease (P = 0.021) were observed. The different pattern of IL-1beta, Fas and FasL expression found in HCV- and HBV-mediated liver disease, points to a different modulation of immune response B and C virus induced, while the decline in Fas / FasL expression in HCC may be related to defence mechanisms adopted by HCC cells against the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bortolami
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
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16
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Farinati F, Cardin R, Bortolami M, Burra P, Russo FP, Rugge M, Guido M, Sergio A, Naccarato R. Hepatitis C virus: from oxygen free radicals to hepatocellular carcinoma. J Viral Hepat 2007; 14:821-9. [PMID: 18070284 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2007.00878.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological evidence clearly identifies chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a major risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Among the mechanisms that have been implicated in the pro-carcinogenic effect of HCV infection, an increased production of reactive oxygen species in the liver seems to have a major pathogenetic role in leading from chronic inflammation to cancer. Recent data have also demonstrated that HCV is capable of inducing this active production of free radicals per se, not just through inflammation, a feature peculiar to this virus and the specific activity of its core protein. This paper provides an overview of the inter-relationships between HCV, liver damage, free radical production and HCC, describing at least in part the complex network involving DNA oxidative damage, cytokine synthesis, proto-oncogene activation and oestrogen receptor expression, that may all be deeply involved in liver carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche, Sezione di Gastroenterologia, Policlinico Universitario, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy.
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17
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Guido M, Roskams T, Pontisso P, Fassan M, Thung SN, Giacomelli L, Sergio A, Farinati F, Cillo U, Rugge M. Squamous cell carcinoma antigen in human liver carcinogenesis. J Clin Pathol 2007; 61:445-7. [PMID: 17893121 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2007.051383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [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: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background:Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) is a serine protease inhibitor that can be overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at both molecular and protein level, but no data are available on its expression in pre-malignant stages.Aim:To assess SCCA expression by immunohistochemistry in HCC and its nodular precursors in cirrhotic livers.Methods:55 nodules from 42 explanted livers were evaluated: 7 large regenerative nodules (LRNs), 7 low-grade dysplastic nodules (LG-DNs), 10 high-grade DNs (HG-DNs), and 31 HCC. SCCA expression was semiquantitatively scored on a four-tiered scale.Results:SCCA hepatocyte immunostaining was always restricted to the cytoplasm, mainly exhibiting a granular pattern. Stain intensity varied, ranging from weak to very strong. Within the nodules, positive cells were unevenly distributed, either scattered or in irregular clusters. The prevalence of SCCA expression was 29% in LRNs, 100% in DNs and 93% in HCC. A significant difference emerged in both prevalence and score for LRNs versus LG-DNs (p<0.039), HG-DNs (p = 0.001), and HCC (p = 0.000). A barely significant difference (p = 0.49) was observed between LG-DNs and HG-DNs, while no difference in SCCA expression was detected between HG-DNs and HCC. Cirrhotic tissue adjacent to the nodules was positive in 96% of cases, with a significant difference in the score (p = 0.000) between hepatocytes adjacent to HCC and those surrounding LRNs.Discussion:This study provides the first evidence that aberrant SCCA expression is an early event in liver cell carcinomatous transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Guido
- Department of Diagnostic Medical Sciences & Special Therapies, Universitè degli Studi di Padova, Italy
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Venetian Institute of Oncology (IOV), Padua University, Padua, Italy
- E-mail:
| | - A Sergio
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Venetian Institute of Oncology (IOV), Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - A Baldan
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Venetian Institute of Oncology (IOV), Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - P Zucchetta
- Department of Diagnostic Medical Sciences, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - V D Corleto
- Department of Digestive and Liver Diseases, II School of Medicine, University ‘La Sapienza’, Rome, Italy
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19
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Cillo U, Vitale A, Grigoletto F, Gringeri E, D'Amico F, Valmasoni M, Brolese A, Zanus G, Srsen N, Carraro A, Burra P, Farinati F, Angeli P, D'Amico DF. Intention-to-treat analysis of liver transplantation in selected, aggressively treated HCC patients exceeding the Milan criteria. Am J Transplant 2007; 7:972-81. [PMID: 17391137 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2006.01719.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [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: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This prospective study analyzed the dropout probability and intention-to-treat survival rates of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) selected and treated according to our policy before liver transplantation (LT), with particular attention to those exceeding the Milan criteria. Exclusion criteria for LT were macroscopic vascular invasion, metastases, and poorly differentiated disease at percutaneous biopsy. A specific multi-modal adjuvant algorithm was used to treat HCC before LT. A total of 100 HCC patients were listed for LT: 40 exceeded the Milan criteria in terms of nodule size and number (MILAN OUT) either at listing or in list, while 60 patients continued to meet the criteria (MILAN IN). The Milan criteria did not prove to be a significant predictor of dropout probability or survival rates using Cox's analysis. Cumulative dropout probability at 6 and 12 months was 0% and 4% for MILAN OUT, and 6% and 11% for MILAN IN. The intention-to-treat survival rates at 1 and 3 years were 95% and 85% in MILAN OUT, and 84% and 69% in MILAN IN. None of the 68 transplanted patients had recurrent HCC after a median 16-month follow-up (0-69 months). In conclusion, LT may be effective for selected, aggressively-treated HCC patients exceeding the Milan criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Cillo
- Unità di Chirurgia Epatobiliare e Trapianto Epatico, Dipartimento di Chirurgia Generale e Trapianti d'Organo, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, Italy
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20
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Zaninotto G, Minnei F, Guirroli E, Ceolin M, Battaglia G, Bellumat A, Betetto G, Bozzola L, Cassaro M, Cataudella G, Dal Bò N, Farinati F, Florea G, Furlanetto A, Galliani E, Germanà B, Guerini A, Macrì E, Marcon V, Mastropaolo G, Meggio A, Miori G, Morelli L, Murer B, Norberto L, Togni R, Valiante F, Rugge M. The Veneto Region's Barrett's Oesophagus Registry: aims, methods, preliminary results. Dig Liver Dis 2007; 39:18-25. [PMID: 17141593 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2006.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 05/11/2006] [Revised: 07/18/2006] [Accepted: 09/25/2006] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The natural history of Barrett's Oeosphagus is not completely clarified and Barrett's Oeosphagus Registries are considered useful tools to expand our knowledge on this disease. A Barrett's Oeosphagus Registry has been therefore established in the Veneto Region and neighbouring provinces. AIMS The aims of the Registry are to assess the demographical, endoscopical and histological characteristics of Barrett's Oeosphagus patients; the prevalence of non-invasive neoplasia and Barrett's Adenocarcinoma and the timing and incidence of Barrett's Oeosphagus progression to malignancy. METHODS An interdisciplinary committee of endoscopists, pathologists and information technology experts was established in 2004 to design a website-based Barrett's Oesophagus Registry for the Veneto Region and neighbouring north-eastern Italian provinces. Protocols for endoscopies and biopsies and standard reports were carefully defined. RESULTS In the first 18 months, 397 patients with endoscopically visible and histologically proven Barrett's Oeosphagus were enrolled in the Registry; the median age of these patients was 66 years (male:female=3:1). Most patients (75%) had a Short Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus (<or=3 cm) and only 1 in 4 had a Long Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus (>3 cm). Long Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus patients were 5 years older than the Short Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus patients (p<0.05), suggesting a progression from Short Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus to Long Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus. Though no data are available on the incidence of non-invasive neoplasia or Barrett's Adenocarcinoma (i.e., progression to cancer at least 12 months after enrolment), the prevalence of neoplastic lesions (found within 12 months of enrolment) was 5% for Short Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus and 19% for Long Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus, indicating that a careful multiple-biopsy endoscopic protocol is needed, especially when Long Segment of Barrett's Oesophagus are suspected at endoscopy. The prevalence of Barrett's Adenocarcinoma among patients with non-invasive neoplasia was 1/17 cases of low-grade non-invasive neoplasia and 2/3 cases of high-grade non-invasive neoplasia, indicating that these patients require strict endoscopic and bioptic follow-up. CONCLUSION A regional Barrett's Oeosphagus Registry is feasible at a relatively low cost and enables significant data to be collected in a relatively short time. The use of a standardised endoscopic nomenclature and report form, a strict biopsy protocol, a standard report for pathologists improves the quality of endoscopic and histological diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Zaninotto
- Department of General Surgery & Organ Transplantation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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21
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Baldan A, Marino D, DE Giorgio M, Angonese C, Cillo U, D'Alessandro A, Masotto A, Massani M, Mazzucco M, Miola E, Neri D, Paccagnella D, Pivetta G, Stellato A, Tommasi L, Tremolada F, Tufano A, Zanus G, Farinati F. Percutaneous radiofrequency thermal ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2006; 24:1495-501. [PMID: 17081166 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2006.03136.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiofrequency thermal ablation is the first therapeutic option in percutaneous treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma but data on its long-term efficacy and safety are not conclusive. AIM This study reports a prospective survey on radiofrequency thermal ablation in north-east Italy. METHODS Data were collected on 401 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (males 301, mean age: 68 years) treated by radiofrequency thermal ablation in 13 centres. Indication to treatment was: single nodule not eligible for surgery in 77% of patients, 2-3 nodes in 18% and multiple lesions in 5%. Mean size was 3 cm (1-8 cm). Treatment response was assessed at 1 month by spiral computerized tomography and then with ultrasound examination and new spiral computerized tomography. RESULTS Complete response was obtained in 67% of patients and in 27% response was 75-99%. Complete response raised to 77% in lesions smaller than 3 cm. The morbidity rate was 34%; the mortality was 0.5%, seeding was observed in four patients. Ten patients presented an unexpected rapid disease progression. CONCLUSION The above data show that by radiofrequency thermal ablation, complete response can be achieved only in about two-third of the cases, clearly less than expected, and that, beyond seeding, unexpected progression can be observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Baldan
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
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22
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Pastorelli D, Cartei G, Zustovich F, Marchese F, Artioli G, Zovato S, Binato S, Ceravolo R, Cingarlini S, Salmaso F, Mattiazzi M, Sanavio C, Farinati F, Zanus G, Cillo U. Gemcitabine and liposomal doxorubicin in biliary and hepatic carcinoma (HCC) chemotherapy: preliminary results and review of the literature. Ann Oncol 2006; 17 Suppl 5:v153-7. [PMID: 16807446 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdj972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced biliary tract cancers have a poor prognosis. Gemcitabine (G) as a single agent or in combination represents an active treatment option. Systemic chemotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma represents a palliative treatment. Gemcitabine in combination with Liposomal Doxorubicin (LD) may represent an active treatment option. PATIENTS AND METHODS Clinical trials for biliary and hepatic carcinoma have been reviewed. RESULTS We obtained RC (1 pt), RP (4 pts), SD (8 pts) and seven pts had PD (RR 25% and SD 40%). Our chemotherapy regimen was Gemcitabine 1000 mg/m(2) d 1 and 8, Liposomal Doxorubicin 30 mg d 1, q 28. Patients were 21 (17 M), aged 44 to 78 (median 63 yrs). Only in 8 pts we observed G 3-4 haematological toxicity, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia (7 G3, 1 G4).
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pastorelli
- O.U.C. Medical Oncology, Busonera Hospital 1 floor, National Oncology Institute of Veneto, IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy.
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23
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Angonese C, Baldan A, Cillo U, D'Alessandro A, De Antoni M, De Giorgio M, Masotto A, Marino D, Massani M, Mazzucco M, Miola E, Neri D, Paccagnella D, Pivetta G, Tommasi L, Tremolada F, Tufano A, Zanus G, Farinati F. Complications of radiofrequency thermal ablation in hepatocellular carcinoma: what about "explosive" spread? Gut 2006; 55:435-6. [PMID: 16474113 PMCID: PMC1856082 DOI: 10.1136/gut.2005.080515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
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Nitti D, Marchet A, Mammano E, Ambrosi A, Belluco C, Mencarelli R, Maino M, Marconato G, Farinati F, Lise M. Extended lymphadenectomy (D2) in patients with early gastric cancer. Eur J Surg Oncol 2005; 31:875-81. [PMID: 16051460 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2005.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2004] [Revised: 05/12/2005] [Accepted: 05/18/2005] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the survival benefit of extended lymphadenectomy (D2) in EGC patients in one European Institution. METHODS A review was made of our prospective gastric database from January 1980 to December 2001. Of 527 patients with primary gastric adenocarcinoma, 119 with EGC underwent potentially curative resection (R0) with D2 lymphadenectomy. RESULTS There were two post-operative deaths. Of the 117 evaluable cases, 96 were classified as N0 and 21 as N+, with metastases in the perigastric lymph nodes (level 1) in 13, and beyond this site (level 2) in eight. Five-year survival was 85.9 and 83.0% in N0 and N+ patients, respectively. During a median follow-up of 90 months, five of the eight patients with level 2 metastases died of recurrent disease and three were alive. The estimated survival benefit for 119 patients with EGC was 2.5% (3/119 cases). CONCLUSIONS In patients with EGC, metastases to level 2 are rare. Our results indicate that D2 lymphadenectomy has a limited survival benefit and that in these cases a less extensive lymphadenectomy (D1) could be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Nitti
- Department of Oncological and Surgical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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25
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Rugge M, Bersani G, Bertorelle R, Pennelli G, Russo VM, Farinati F, Bartolini D, Cassaro M, Alvisi V. Microsatellite instability and gastric non-invasive neoplasia in a high risk population in Cesena, Italy. J Clin Pathol 2005; 58:805-10. [PMID: 16049280 PMCID: PMC1770888 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2004.025676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS In the natural history of gastric cancer, non-invasive neoplasia (NiN) precedes invasive carcinoma. A histological classification of gastric NiN has recently been proposed by a World Health Organisation international panel of experts. Genetic instability is known to be among the molecular pathways involved in gastric oncogenesis. In this retrospective cross sectional study, microsatellite instability (MSI) was analysed in a consecutive series of NiN and NiN related histological alterations from a northern Italian region at high risk for gastric cancer. PATIENTS/METHODS Fifty five consecutive cases (indefinite for NiN, 29 cases; low grade NiN, 17 cases; high grade NiN, nine cases) were analysed by radioactive polymerase chain reaction and electrophoresis for microsatellite alterations at six loci (BAT25, BAT26, D2S123, D5S346, D17S250, and D3S1317). MSI was defined according to the Bethesda criteria distinguishing: (1) no instability in the analysed loci; (2) low frequency MSI (MSI-L); and (3) high frequency MSI (MSI-H). Immunohistochemical expression of MLH1 and MSH2 proteins was also analysed in all cases. RESULTS Overall, MSI was found in 11 of 55 cases (indefinite for NiN, five of 29 (MSI-L, four; MSI-H, one); low grade NiN, three of 17 (MSI-L, one; MSI-H, two); high grade NiN, three of nine (MSI-L, one; MSI-H, two). CONCLUSIONS In an Italian high risk area for gastric cancer, MSI is part of the spectrum of genetic alterations in gastric non-invasive neoplasia. In European populations at high risk of gastric cancer, DNA repair system alterations are thought to be among the early molecular events in gastric carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rugge
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, University of Padova, I-35121 Padova, Italy.
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26
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Bortolanza S, Qian C, Kramer MG, Gomar C, Prieto J, Farinati F, Hernandez-Alcoceba R. An oncolytic adenovirus controlled by a modified telomerase promoter is attenuated in telomerase-negative cells, but shows reduced activity in cancer cells. J Mol Med (Berl) 2005; 83:736-47. [PMID: 15976917 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-005-0681-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2005] [Accepted: 05/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The promoter for human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERTp) is preferentially active in malignant cells. It was recently used to control the expression of the adenoviral E1A gene for the development of oncolytic adenoviruses. To ensure maximal repression in normal cells, the inclusion of additional E-boxes in the proximal region of the core promoter was described. We found that the transcriptional activity of this artificial sequence (T-255-4DEB) is minimal in normal cells, but it is also reduced in all the cancer cell lines tested. The cancer specificity of a new oncolytic adenovirus based in this promoter (AdTE1) was evaluated by direct comparison with wild-type adenovirus type 5 (AdWT) in vitro and in vivo. In all the parameters tested, AdTE1 was attenuated in normal cells, but the efficacy in cancer cells showed a parallel reduction, suggesting a lack of specificity. However, the cytotoxicity of AdTE1 was repressed in senescent cells compared to AdWT. Therefore, we conclude that AdTE1 is preferentially attenuated only in cells that are permanently devoid of telomerase expression such as senescent cells. Further modifications in the telomerase-based promoters should be introduced in order to combine maximal attenuation of oncolytic adenoviruses in normal tissues and enhanced activity in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bortolanza
- Padua University Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua, 35128, Italy
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Cartei G, Zustovich F, Murrone A, Zovato S, Binato S, Mattiazzi M, Farinati F, Zanus G, Cillo U, Pastorelli D. A phase I-II study of liposomal doxorubicin (LD) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) not suitable for loco-regional therapy. J Clin Oncol 2005. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2005.23.16_suppl.4227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G. Cartei
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - F. Zustovich
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - A. Murrone
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - S. Zovato
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - S. Binato
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - M. Mattiazzi
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - F. Farinati
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - G. Zanus
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - U. Cillo
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
| | - D. Pastorelli
- Medcl Oncology ULSS16 Padova, Padova, Italy; Azienda Osp di Padova, Padova, Italy; Medcl Oncology ULSS16, Padova, Italy
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Gianni S, Cecchetto A, Altavilla G, Ragazzi R, Bertazzo M, De Giorgio M, Baldan A, Fagiuoli S, Farinati F. Tumour staging, morphology and p53 overexpression concur in predicting survival in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Intern Med 2005; 257:367-73. [PMID: 15788007 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2005.01460.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on cirrhosis is hard to predict as it depends on tumour stage, underlying liver disease, type of treatment and, possibly, biological factors of the tumour itself. METHODS We prospectively evaluated the survival of 91 consecutive patients with HCC on cirrhosis, diagnosed between January 1998 and December 1999. Clinical features and histological/biological aspects, including histotype, grade, p53 overexpression, cytoproliferation and apoptotic markers were analysed. RESULTS Child-Pugh (P = 0.01), Okuda (P < 0.0001), Cancer of the Liver Italian Program (CLIP) staging (P < 0.0001) and type of treatment (P = 0.0001) were significantly related to survival. In the Cox model, CLIP staging was included as independent predictor of survival at step 1 (P < 0.0001) with Okuda at step 2 (P = 0.013). Amongst the biological factors, p53 overexpression and histotype were significantly related with survival (P = 0.0044 and 0.017 respectively). When clinical and biological variables were examined together in the Cox model, CLIP and Okuda were confirmed as being statistically related with survival (P < 0.0001 and =0.012) followed by histotype and p53 overexpression (P = 0.019 and 0.02). CONCLUSIONS CLIP, Okuda, histotype and p53 overexpression are the strongest predictors of survival in this series of patients. These data confirm that staging of the tumour and underlying liver disease are strictly related to prognosis but support the concurrent role of clinical and biological factors in upgrading our capacity of predicting the fate of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gianni
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University School of Medicine, 35128 Padova, Italy
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Farinati F, Marino D, De Giorgio M, Trevisani F. A reappraisal of the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer model: natural history of untreated 'intermediate stage' hepatocellular carcinoma. J Intern Med 2004; 256:529-30; author reply 531. [PMID: 15554955 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2004.01409.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Cassaro M, Pennelli G, Rugge M, Farinati F, Zaninotto G. Gastric precancerous lesion follow up based on pathological evidence. J Clin Pathol 2004; 57:1007-8. [PMID: 15333673 PMCID: PMC1770409 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2004.018069] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Cassaro
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Padova, Via A. Gabelli 61, I-35121 Padova, Italy;
| | - G Pennelli
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Padova, Via A. Gabelli 61, I-35121 Padova, Italy;
| | - M Rugge
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Padova, Via A. Gabelli 61, I-35121 Padova, Italy;
| | - F Farinati
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova
| | - G Zaninotto
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Padova
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The cancer risk associated with gastric non-invasive neoplasia (formerly dysplasia) is debated. This prospective long term follow up study investigates the clinicopathological behaviour of non-invasive gastric neoplasia (and related lesions), focusing on the cancer risk associated with each different histological phenotype. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 118 consecutive cases (nine indefinite for non- invasive neoplasia; 90 low grade non-invasive neoplasia; 16 high grade non- invasive neoplasia; and three suspicious for invasive adenocarcinoma) with a histological follow up of more than 12 months (average 52 months; range 12-206) were prospectively followed up with a standardised protocol. Patients in whom gastric cancer was detected within 12 months from the initial diagnosis of non-invasive neoplasia were excluded, assuming that invasive carcinoma had been missed at the initial endoscopy procedure. RESULTS Non-invasive neoplasia was no longer detectable in 57/118 cases (48%), was unchanged in 32 (30%), and evolved into gastric cancer in 20 patients (17%). Evolution to invasive adenocarcinoma was documented in both low and high grade non-invasive neoplastic lesions (8/90 low grade; 11/16 high grade) and correlated with histological severity (low versus high grade) at baseline (p<0.001). Seventy five per cent of cancers occurring during the long term follow up were stage I. CONCLUSIONS The risk of invasive gastric cancer increases with the histological grade of the non-invasive neoplasia. Following up non-invasive gastric neoplasia increases the likelihood of gastric cancer being detected in its early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rugge
- Department of Oncological and Surgical Sciences, III Cattedra di Anatomia Patologica, Università degli Studi di Padova-Azienda Ospedale Padova, Italia.
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Bortolami M, Venturi C, Giacomelli L, Scalerta R, Bacchetti S, Marino F, Floreani A, Lise M, Naccarato R, Farinati F. Cytokine, infiltrating macrophage and T cell-mediated response to development of primary and secondary human liver cancer. Dig Liver Dis 2002; 34:794-801. [PMID: 12546515 DOI: 10.1016/s1590-8658(02)80073-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kupffer cells, monocytes and infiltrating T cells have been considered the major source of interleukin-1beta and tumour necrosis factor-alpha in the liver. AIMS; To explore the expression of interleukin-1beta and tumour necrosis factor-alpha and to evaluate the density and the distribution of T lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages in the liver of patients with primary and secondary tumours. METHODS Tumoural and peritumoural liver samples were examined from 21 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, 10 with hepatic metastases, 5 with benign focal liver lesions and 4 healthy adult livers. Interleukin-1beta and tumour necrosis factor-alpha mRNAs were detected by a semiquantitative comparative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. T lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages were detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Higher levels of interleukin-1beta, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, CD3+ and CD68+ cells were found in the tissue surrounding hepatocellular carcinoma and metastases than in the tumour itself. A strong expression of CD68+ and CD3+ cells was found mainly along the tumour-host interface but the highest expression of CD3+ cells was found at the metastasis interfaces. Interleukin-1beta expression, CD3+ and CD68+ cell densities were higher in peritumoural samples than in so-called "normal" liver tissue. CONCLUSIONS An increased production of interleukin-1beta and, to a lesser extent, of tumour necrosis factor-alpha mRNA coincides with the presence of cancer be it primary or secondary, both in healthy and cirrhotic livers. The presence of cancer, irrespective of the presence of underlying liver damage, appears to play the most important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bortolami
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padua, Italy.
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35
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Perrone F, Gallo C, Daniele B, Gaeta GB, Izzo F, Capuano G, Adinolfi LE, Mazzanti R, Farinati F, Elba S, Piai G, Calandra M, Stanzione M, Mattera D, Aiello A, De Sio I, Castiglione F, Russo M, Persico M, Felder M, Manghisi OG, De Maio E, Di Maio M, Pignata S. Tamoxifen in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: 5-year results of the CLIP-1 multicentre randomised controlled trial. Curr Pharm Des 2002; 8:1013-9. [PMID: 11945148 DOI: 10.2174/1381612024607063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 1998, when data of a meta-analysis on tamoxifen in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) had suggested a little advantage for this treatment, we published the results of a multicenter randomised controlled trial, that showed no survival benefit for tamoxifen vs. control. Here we report an updated analysis of the study results 4.5 years after the closure of enrollment. METHODS The study had a planned sample size of 480 patients. Patients with any stage HCC were eligible, irrespective of locoregional treatment. Tamoxifen was given orally, 40 mg/die, from randomisation until death. RESULTS 496 patients were randomised by 30 Institutions from January 1995 to January 1997. Information was available for 477 patients. As of July 2001, 374 deaths (78%) were recorded, and median survival times were 16 and 15 months (p=0.54), in the control and tamoxifen arm. Data were further analysed separately for advanced patients and for those eligible to potentially curative locoregional treatments: relative hazard of death for patients receiving tamoxifen was equal to 0.98 (95% CI 0.76-1.25) for the former group and 1.38 (95% CI 0.95-2.01) for the latter. The prognostic score recently devised by our group (CLIP score) was, as expected, strictly correlated (p<0.0001) to the locoregional treatment received and strongly correlated with prognosis. CONCLUSIONS the update of the present study confirms that tamoxifen is not effective in prolonging survivals, both in advanced patients and in those potentially curable and that the CLIP score is able to predict prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Perrone
- CLIP secretariat, Ufficio Sperimentazioni Cliniche Controllate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via Mariano Semmola, Napoli, 80131, Italy.
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Farinati F, Gianni S, Marin G, Fagiuoli S, Rinaldi M, Naccarato R. Does the choice of treatment influence survival of patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma in compensated cirrhosis? Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2001; 13:1217-24. [PMID: 11711779 DOI: 10.1097/00042737-200110000-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Untreated patients with small, single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in compensated cirrhosis are characterized by a relatively good prognosis. METHODS We report the findings generated in a retrospective study on a cohort of 186 consecutive patients with small (< 5 cm) HCC in Child A or B cirrhosis, who were transplanted (four), underwent surgery (15), or were treated with percutaneous ethanol injection (117), lipiodol chemoembolization (44) or best supportive care (six), depending on their clinical features. RESULTS Overall survival was 26% at 5 years (31% Child A, 20% Child B), with a mean and median survival of 44 and 38 months, respectively. The longest survival was obtained with transplantation and surgery, and the worst with best supportive care. When untreated patients were not considered, no significant differences were observed between the different types of treatment, however, even when patients in the Child A group were considered alone. Almost all the patients who underwent surgery relapsed. No significant difference was observed in relation to the stage of the disease, while alpha-fetoprotein levels were singled out as the only relevant prognostic factor in a multivariate Cox's regression model. Costs per year of life saved were extremely high for transplantation and lowest for ethanol injection, with surgery being less expensive than chemoembolization. CONCLUSIONS This study confirms that patients with single, small HCC nodules in well compensated cirrhosis should be treated. The choice of type of treatment should be based on the availability of local resources and expertise, and on the patients' preference, after they have been properly informed on the survival, morbidity and mortality related to each treatment option. The relative cost of the procedures should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Cattedra di Gastroenterologia - Sezione di Gastroenterologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy.
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Fagiuoli S, Minniti F, Pevere S, Farinati F, Burra P, Livi U, Naccarato R, Chiaramonte M. HBV and HCV infections in heart transplant recipients. J Heart Lung Transplant 2001; 20:718-24. [PMID: 11448796 DOI: 10.1016/s1053-2498(01)00255-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart transplant (HTx) recipients risk acquiring hepatotropic viral infections such as hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), and the impact of these infections on post-HTx survival remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to define the prevalence, clinical features, and natural history of HBV and HCV infections in a cohort of HTx recipients. METHODS We retrospectively studied 360 consecutive patients who had undergone HTx. Clinical picture, hepatic injury indexes, and HBV/HCV viral serology were followed post-transplant. RESULTS During follow-up (average, 8 +/- 3.1 years), 49 (16.5%) of the HTx recipients tested positive for at least 1 of the 2 viruses (3.1% HBV, 12% HCV, 0.5% concomitant infection). The prevalence of HCV infection in heart transplant recipients transplanted before and after 1990 was 28% and 4.2%, respectively, the latter being markedly lower (p < 0.001) than in earlier series of HTx recipients and much lower than expected in the age- and sex-matched general population. All HBV-positive and 58% of HCV-positive recipients developed chronic liver disease. Sixteen percent of patients developed cirrhosis during follow-up, and 8% died of end-stage liver disease. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of HBV and HCV in a large population of HTx recipients is not very different from that reported in the general population. Active viral replication of HBV and an aggressive natural history of both infections are seen in HTx recipients, however. The low prevalence of HBV- and HCV-related infection in recent series probably reflects current viral screening and vaccination policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fagiuoli
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences,University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Barrett's oesophagus complicates the gastro-oesophageal acid reflux. Helicobacter pylori infection, particularly with cagA positive strains, induces inflammatory/atrophic lesions of the gastric mucosa, which may impair acid output. No systematic study has investigated the phenotype of the gastric mucosa coexisting with Barrett's oesophagus. This study was designed to identify the phenotype of gastric mucosa associated with Barrett's oesophagus. METHODS In this retrospective case control study, the phenotype of the gastric mucosa was histologically characterised in 53 consecutive patients with Barrett's oesophagus and in 53 (sex and age matched) non-ulcer dyspeptic controls. Both patients and controls underwent extensive sampling of the gastric mucosa (two antral, one incisural, and two oxyntic biopsies). Intestinal metaplasia (IM) was categorised (type I, complete IM; types II and III, incomplete IM) by the high iron diamine stain; cagA status was ascertained by genotyping. RESULTS Helicobacter pylori was present in 19 of the 53 patients with Barrett's oesophagus and in 30 of the 53 controls (p < 0.02); eight of the 19 patients with Barrett's oesophagus and 28 of the 35 controls harboured cagA positive H pylori (p < 0.03). The histological severity of non-atrophic gastritis detected in the controls was significantly higher than that detected in the patients with Barrett's oesophagus (p < 0.0001). Multifocal atrophic gastritis was present in 4% of the patients with Barrett's oesophagus and in 23% of controls (p < 0.01). The odds ratio for the association between multifocal atrophic gastritis and Barrett's oesophagus was 0.20 (95% confidence interval, 0.006 to 0.60). Gastric IM was detected in 13.2% of the patients with Barrett's oesophagus and in 30.1% of the controls (p < 0.03). Type III IM at the gastric mucosa was only detected among controls. CONCLUSIONS Barrett's oesophagus is associated with a low prevalence of H pylori cagA positive infection and multifocal atrophic gastritis. This pathobiological pattern is considered to be associated with a low risk of distal gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rugge
- Department of Oncological and Surgical Sciences, Cattedra di Istochimica e Immunoistochimica Patologica, ULSS 15 del Veneto, Italia.
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Cardin R, Saccoccio G, Masutti F, Bellentani S, Farinati F, Tiribelli C. DNA oxidative damage in leukocytes correlates with the severity of HCV-related liver disease: validation in an open population study. J Hepatol 2001; 34:587-92. [PMID: 11394660 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-8278(00)00098-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Oxidative DNA damage, identifiable in the formation of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), is relevant in the mutagenesis/carcinogenesis process. The aim of this study was to assess 8-OHdG levels in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in relation to extent of liver damage and HCV genotype. METHODS 8-OHdG levels were measured in DNA from circulating leukocytes of 110 anti-HCV positive subjects belonging to the population of the Dionysos study, subgrouped in: 50 anti-HCV+ with persistently normal ALT, 48 with chronic hepatitis and 12 with cirrhosis. Twenty normal subjects served as Controls. 8-OHdG levels were assayed by HPLC/electrochemical detector. RESULTS 8-OHdG levels rose (P < 0.00001) from Controls to HCV+; chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis were associated with a further increase (P < 0.02 versus HCV+). Genotype 1 was associated with higher levels of 8-OHdG (P < 0.04). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that, after correction for potential confoundings, 8-OHdG levels correlated (P < 0.02) with presence and extent of liver damage. CONCLUSIONS An accumulation of 8-OHdG in circulating leukocytes is a reliable marker of the extent of liver damage in HCV+ patients and is present in particular in genotype 1 infection. This genomic damage may contribute to liver carcinogenesis by causing persistent DNA changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cardin
- Dipartimento Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologie, Sezione di Gastroenterologia, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
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Corleto VD, Panzuto F, Falconi M, Cannizzaro R, Angeletti S, Moretti A, Delle Fave G, Farinati F. Digestive neuroendocrine tumours: diagnosis and treatment in Italy. A survey by the Oncology Study Section of the Italian Society of Gastroenterology (SIGE). Dig Liver Dis 2001; 33:217-21. [PMID: 11407665 DOI: 10.1016/s1590-8658(01)80710-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New insights in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive neuroendocrine tumours have prompted a renewed interest in these rare and complex diseases. AIM To establish how many new cases of digestive neuroendocrine tumours were diagnosed, and how they were treated, at gastroenterological centres across Italy during a two-year period (1997-1998). METHODS The 12 centres taking part filled in a data collection form reporting type of tumour, methods of diagnosis and therapeutic strategies adopted in each case. Data were collected and analysed by the authors of the present report. RESULTS Data refer to 98 patients, 22 with functioning and 76 with non-functioning digestive neuroendocrine tumours [50 carcinoids, 48 pancreatic endocrine tumour syndromes]. Primary tumours were localised in 96% (38% with metastases) of non-functioning and 81% (50% with metastases) of functioning tumours. These were surgically removed in >80% of patients in both groups. Somatostatin analogue treatment, with or without interferon, was administered in 35% of patients, while chemotherapy was used in 9% and 23% of functioning and non-functioning tumours, respectively. The imaging study always included a computed tomography scan (20% helical computed tomography). Magnetic resonance and somatostatin receptor scintigraphy were also performed, the former in 41% and 21% of the two (functioning and non-functioning tumour) groups, the latter in 45% and 30%. CONCLUSIONS The number of functioning digestive neuroendocrine tumours reported was lower than expected. Surgery plays a major role in the treatment of these tumours in all centres. Overall, in only a small number of patients was a multidisciplinary approach applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- V D Corleto
- Chair of Gastroenterology, II Faculty of Medicine, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The life expectancy of a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhosis is hard to predict, making it difficult to decide whether a certain treatment is indicated and what to say to the patient regarding prognosis. A new score recently has been proposed, which includes the parameters involved in the Child-Pugh stage, plus macroscopic tumor morphology, alpha-fetoprotein levels, and the presence or absence of portal thrombosis. The score has been validated in internal control series, but its general applicability has yet to be confirmed. The authors compared the discriminatory ability of the Cancer of the Liver Italian Program (CLIP) score with those of the Okuda and TNM staging systems and the Child-Pugh classification in a group of cirrhotic patients with HCC, diagnosed and followed up by their unit. METHODS One hundred fifty-four patients with histologically ascertained HCC in cirrhosis were recruited (median age, 62.5 years; male/female ratio, 122/32) and prospectively followed up. Staging was performed at the baseline using the Child-Pugh, Okuda, TNM, and CLIP systems. RESULTS The CLIP score was able to predict survival better than the Okuda or TNM staging system, as confirmed by the Kaplan-Meier comparison of survival curves and by the Cox regression analysis, with a median survival rate of 31, 27, 13, 8, 2, and 2 months in patients with CLIP Stages 0, I, II, III, IV, and V-VI, respectively. The Child-Pugh classification performed as well as the Okuda. The predictive capacity of CLIP score was confirmed in the subgroup of patients undergoing chemoembolization. Overall, the survival rate in the authors' series was higher than predicted on the basis of previous reports. CONCLUSIONS The CLIP score, which is based on simple features of the patient and of the tumor, can accurately identify patients with different prognoses, particularly in the early phases of HCC, thus representing a useful tool in the management of the disease and of the affected patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Cattedra Malattie Apparato Digerente, Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche Università di Padova, Italy.
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Farinati F, Cardin R, Fiorentino M, D'errico A, Grigioni W, Cecchetto A, Naccarato R. Imbalance between cytoproliferation and apoptosis in hepatitis C virus related chronic liver disease. J Viral Hepat 2001; 8:34-40. [PMID: 11155150 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2893.2001.00267.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
An imbalance between cytoproliferation and apoptosis may be relevant in liver carcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to analyse these parameters in patients with chronic liver damage in relation to the aetiology of the disease. Forty-eight patients were studied: 23 had hepatitis C virus (HCV)- and 11 had hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related chronic hepatitis, seven had alcoholic liver disease, and seven had haemochromatosis. The biopsies were used for routine diagnosis, cytoproliferative indexing (MIB1, Ki67 monoclonal antibody), apoptosis (APO, in situ end labelling) and, in part, liver iron and malondialdehyde determination. Apoptosis was similar in all patient subgroups and correlated with hepatitis grading (P=0.002) and ALT levels (P=0.004); cytoproliferation (MIB1) levels were higher in HCV patients, both as a whole and in the periportal area (P=0.02 and P=0.03). MIB1 correlated with ALT levels (P=0.0001), hepatitis grading (P=0.02) and tissue iron (P=0.04). APO and MIB1 were higher in patients with than in those without cirrhosis (P=0.0006 and P=0.03, respectively). APO correlated with MIB1 (P=0.001), overall but not in HCV patients. The MIB1/APO ratio was significantly higher in HCV patients than in the other groups (P=0.02). In summary, cytoproliferation is more pronounced in chronic HCV-related hepatitis, while APO is not significantly higher than in other types of liver damage, suggesting an imbalance between the two. APO and MIB1 are directly related to the extent of liver damage and, from a biochemical point of view, to tissue iron levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologiche, Universitá di Bologna, Italy.
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Abstract
Many studies have shown that hepatitis B virus infection may also occur in hepatitis B surface antigen-negative patients. This occult infection has been identified both in patients with cryptogenic liver disease and in patients with hepatitis C virus-related chronic hepatitis, and much evidence suggests that it may be a risk factor of hepatocellular carcinoma development. However several aspects of this occult infection remain unclear such as its prevalence and the factor(s) involved in the lack of circulating hepatitis B surface antigen. Moreover, it is uncertain whether the occult hepatitis B virus infection may contribute to chronic liver damage, considering that it is usually associated with a suppressed viral replication. Evidence and hypotheses concerning this fascinating field of bio-medical research are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Raimondo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Messina, Italy.
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Herszényi L, Plebani M, Carraro P, De Paoli M, Roveroni G, Cardin R, Foschia F, Tulassay Z, Naccarato R, Farinati F. Proteases in gastrointestinal neoplastic diseases. Clin Chim Acta 2000; 291:171-87. [PMID: 10675722 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-8981(99)00227-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cysteine and serine proteases are involved in cancer invasion and metastasis. In the past few years we investigated the tissue levels of these proteases in gastric cancer (GC), gastric precancerous changes (CAG), colorectal cancer (CRC) and the plasma and serum levels of proteases in several gastrointestinal tumours, using ELISA methods. Significantly higher antigen levels were found not only in GC tissue but also in CAG with respect to the levels found normal tissue; with respect to CAG, patients with dysplasia had higher levels than patients without dysplasia. The same findings were obtained in CRC. In general protease levels correlated with the major histomorphological parameters, such as grading and histotype in GC as well as in CRC. Tissue protease levels had a strong prognostic impact in GC, in which UPA was singled out by multivariate analysis as the major prognostic factor, and CRC. The plasma levels of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (UPA) and the serum levels of cathepsin B were significantly increased in patients with gastrointestinal tumours. In conclusions, cysteine and serine proteases may have a part not only in GC and CRC invasion and metastasis, but also in the progression of gastric precancerous changes into cancer. They are strong prognostic factors in GC and CRC. These proteases may also have a role as tumour markers in the early diagnosis of gastrointestinal tract tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Herszényi
- Second Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest, Hungary
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Farinati F, Cardin R, Degan P, De Maria N, Floyd RA, Van Thiel DH, Naccarato R. Oxidative DNA damage in circulating leukocytes occurs as an early event in chronic HCV infection. Free Radic Biol Med 1999; 27:1284-91. [PMID: 10641722 DOI: 10.1016/s0891-5849(99)00161-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with an increased production of reactive oxygen species within the liver that are responsible for the oxidation of intracellular macromolecules. To ascertain whether the increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in individuals with chronic HCV infection is related to an accumulation of oxidative DNA damage, the 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) content in the DNA of liver tissue and leukocytes of 87 individuals with HCV- or HBV-related liver disease and of 10 healthy controls was measured. Serum levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were also assessed as an index of lipid peroxidation. RESULTS The 8-OHdG content in the circulating leukocytes correlated with that of liver tissue (r = 0.618, p < .0004). HCV patients had the highest median 8-OHdG levels (p < .0004). 8-OHdG leukocyte levels in HCV patients were higher than in HBV patients (p < .04) and they significantly correlated with the clinical diagnosis (p < .025), the serum ferritin levels (p < .05), and the amount of liver steatosis (p < .001). No correlation was found with age, gender, history of drinking or smoking, ALT or GGT levels, ESR, alpha-1, or gamma-globulin level and Ishak score. TBARS levels were significantly higher in cirrhotics than in noncirrhotics (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS The 8-OHdG level in circulating leukocytes is a reliable marker of oxidative stress occurring in the liver of individuals with chronic HCV infection. DNA oxidative damage appears to be an early and unique event in the natural history of HCV-related hepatitis. This injury increases the risk of genomic damage and may be one of the important factors involved in the carcinogenic process in cases of HCV-related chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Farinati
- Cattedra Malattie Apparato Digerente, Istituto di Medicina Interna, Università di Padova, Italy.
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Rugge M, Cassaro M, Leo G, Farinati F, Graham DY. Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer: both primary and secondary preventive measures are required. Arch Intern Med 1999; 159:2483-4. [PMID: 10665900 DOI: 10.1001/archinte.159.20.2483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cathepsin B (CATB) and cathepsin L (CATL), which are cysteine proteases, urokinase-(UPA) and tissue-type plasminogen activator (TPA), both serine proteases, and their inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1) are believed to play an important role in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) invasion and metastasis. The objective of this study was to measure CATB, CATL, UPA, TPA, and PAI-1 in the same cancerous tissue (CANCER) and in tissues obtained from a tumor free area (NORMAL) to compare their respective prognostic roles in patients with CRC. METHODS CANCER and NORMAL samples were obtained from 60 CRC patients undergoing surgery (36 males and 24 females; mean age, 63.8 years [range, 27-85 years]). The antigen concentrations were measured using an enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay method. The CANCER tissue also was examined in terms of major histomorphologic parameters such as differentiation, vascular invasion, degree of necrosis, and mucus production. RESULTS Significantly higher antigen levels were found: 1) in CANCER versus NORMAL (with respect to CATL, UPA, and PAI-1, with significantly lower levels for TPA); 2) in CRC with versus without metastasis (CATB, CATL, and PAI-1); 3) in poorly versus well differentiated CRC (UPA and PAI-1); and 4) in advanced Dukes stages (PAI-1). CATB and CATL significantly correlated with UPA and PAI-1. Finally, CATL (P = 0.0001), UPA (P = 0.006), PAI-1 (P = 0.006), Dukes stage (P = 0.0001), presence of metastases (P = 0.003), and vascular invasion (P = 0.03) had a significant prognostic impact. CONCLUSIONS The simultaneous up-regulation of cysteine and serine proteases in CRC confirms their role in colorectal tumor biology and particularly in the process of invasion and metastasis. Together with Dukes stage, determinations of CATL, UPA, and PAI-1 have a major prognostic impact in patients with CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Herszènyi
- Second Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest, Hungary
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