Genome-wide methylation analysis of tubulocystic and papillary renal cell carcinomas

Tubulocystic renal cell carcinoma (TRCC) represents a rare tumor with incidence lower than 1 % of all renal carcinomas. This study was undertaken to contribute to characterization of molecular signatures associated with TRCC and to compare them with the features of papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC) at the level of genome wide methylation analysis.We performed methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) coupled with microarray analysis (Roche NimbleGen). Using the CHARM package, we compared the levels of gene methylation between paired samples of tumors and control renal tissues of each examined individual. We found significant global demethylation in all tumor samples in comparison with adjacent kidney tissues of normal histological appearance but no significant differences in gene methylation between the both compared tumor entities. Therefore we focused on characterization of differentially methylated regions between both tumors and control tissues. We found 42 differentially methylated genes.Hypermethylated genes for protocadherins (PCDHG) and genes coding for products associated with functions of plasma membrane were evaluated as significantly overrepresented among hypermethylated genes detected in both types of renal cell carcinomas.In our pilot study, we provide the first evidence that identical features in the process of carcinogenesis leading to TRCC and/or to PRCC may be found at the gene methylation level.

[Simultaneous procedure in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and renal carcinoma]

INTRODUCTION

Renal carcinoma (RC) is present in 0.1-3% of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). There are several options for surgical solution as regards the type and timing of the procedure. The authors discuss the simultaneous AAA resection and radical nephrectomy as a treatment option.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

1168 patients with AAA including 19 (1.6%) with asymptomatic AAA (diameter >50mm) and RC (average diameter 74.3 mm) indicated for radical nephrectomy were operated on in the last 20 years (between 5/1994 and 5/2014). The average age of the patients was 72.8 years (5585). Pre-operatively, sixteen patients were classified as ASA II, three as ASA III. Unilateral nephrectomy was performed in 18 and bilateral nephrectomy in one patient. One-stage AAA resection (1x endovascular aneurysm repair) with nephrectomy was performed in all patients.

RESULTS

Two patients with ASA III classification died within 30 days postoperatively due to acute myocardial infarction and multiorgan failure. In the other patients, the simultaneous procedure was without any complications. Four patients died within two years after the operation due to generalized RC, the others have survived in the interval of one and twelve years after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous procedure does not represent increased operation load for patients with good health status. Nevertheless, the type of procedure should be optimised for each individual patient with regard to his or her general health status, life expectancy, disease symptomatology, the diameter of the RC and the anatomical conditions of AAA.

Importance of miR-20a expression in prostate cancer tissue

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which are endogenously expressed regulatory noncoding RNAs, have an altered expression in tumor tissues. MiRNAs regulate cancer-related processes such as cell growth and tissue differentiation, and therefore, might function as oncogenes or tumor-suppressor genes. The aim of our study was to assess the expression of mir-20a, let-7a, miR-15a and miR-16 in prostate cancer (PCa) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) tissue and to investigate the relation between the expression of miRNAs and the clinicopathological features of PCa.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study group comprised 138 patients: 85 patients with BPH and 53 patients with PCa. The total RNA was isolated from the tissue specimen core and miRNA expressions were quantified using a real-time RT-PCR method (TaqMan MicroRNA Assays). U6snRNA was used for the normalization of the miRNA expression.

RESULTS

miR-20a expression was significantly higher in the group of patients with a Gleason score of 7-10 in comparison with the group of patients with a Gleason score of 0-6 (p=0.0082). We found no statistical differences in the miRNA expressions (mir-20a, let-7a, miR-15a and miR-16) in the PCa tissue samples in comparison with the BPH tissue samples.

CONCLUSION

Our result shows that the more dedifferentiated PCa cells have a higher expression of miR-20a and this supports the oncogenic role of miR-20a in PCa carcinogenesis. The evaluation of miRNA expression could yield new information about PCa pathogenesis.

Differential display code 3 (DD3/PCA3) in prostate cancer diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) in an organ-confined stage following radical treatment is the only potential curative approach in PCa. Prostatic-specific antigen (PSA) is very helpful in early diagnosis, but the main disadvantage is that it has a low positive predictive value in the range of the grey zone of 2.5-10 ng/mL, which results in a high number of needless biopsies. For this reason, new tests with better parameters are needed. One promising test is that for differential display code 3 (DD3(PCA3)), which is a prostate-specific non-coding mRNA that is highly overexpressed in prostate tumor cells. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential of DD3(PCA3) for mRNA in PCa diagnosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 186 patients were examined. In a group of patients with suspected PCa, one tissue specimen core was collected for testing DD3(PCA3) expression. According to the histological verification there were 100 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, 12 patients with prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and 74 patients with PCa. The total RNA was isolated and DD3(PCA3) and PSA expressions were quantified using quantitative RT real-time PCR method. The DD3(PCA3)/PSA mRNA ratio was determined for all groups.

RESULTS

It was found that the levels of the mRNA expression of DD3(PCA3) were significantly higher (p<0.045) in patients with PCa than in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. No statistically significant differences in levels of mRNA expression of DD3(PCA3) between patients with organ-confined and those with advanced or metastatic disease, nor according to Gleason score, were found.

CONCLUSION

DD3(PCA3) appears to be a promising marker for early detection of PCa and also for differential diagnosis between patients with benign prostate hyperplasia and those with PCa.

[Urogenital trauma associated with pelvic ring fractures]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To evaluate, in a retrospective study, injuries to the urogenital tract in patients with pelvic ring fractures. MATERIAL In the years 1998-2007, a total of 308 patients with pelvic ring fractures were treated. The study did not comprise patients with low-energy fractures, such as apophyseolysis in children, osteoporotic bone fractures or pathologic fractures. It also did not include patients with multiple injuries who died within 6 hours of admission to the hospital. The group consisted of 186 men and 122 women with an average age of 34 (range, 6 to 76) years.

RESULTS

The fractures sustained were classified as type A in 5 %, type B in 57 % and type C in 38 % of the patients. The average follow-up was 71 (range, 13 to 121) months. A primary injury to the urogenital tract was recorded in 50 (16 %) patients. Injury to the urethra was found in 23 (7.5%) and urinary bladder trauma in 18 (6%) patients, vaginal injury was in four women (1%), and penis injury in three (1%) and lacerated testicles in two men (1%). Injury to the urogenital tract was associated with a pelvic ring fracture type A in 5 %, type B in 34 % and type C in 61 % of the patients. Out of the 23 patients with urethral trauma, only six (26 %) were free from functional and subjective complaints; eight (35 %) continued to receive therapy for urethral stenosis seven (30 %) reported urinary incontinence, and seven men (30 %) had erection problems. In six patients (26%) the lasting sequelae were combined. The 18 patients with injury to the bladder reported no subjective complaints at a one-year follow-up. Two patients with penis root injury had erectile dysfunction. Two patients with the loss of both testicles were in the care of a psychiatrist. The patients' satisfaction was evaluated on a 0-to10-point scale. The average value for the whole group was 4.1 points. In the patients with erectile dysfunction, the value was 0.8, and in those with isolated injury to the urinary bladder it was 9.4 points.

DISCUSSION

The increasing number of injuries to the urogenital tract associated with permanent sequelae is caused by a growing number of pelvic ring fractures as well as, and this is more important, by decreasing mortality in patients with severe trauma to the pelvic ring The extent of urogenital injury is related to the degree of dislocation of the pelvic skeleton. Injury to the male urethra is the most frequent urogenital trauma because of the male anatomy. It occurs most often in unstable C type fractures when the pelvic ring is disrupted with bone displacement due to shear force at the site of urethra attachment. The consequences are related to the quality of treatment of urogenital tract injury as well as to how the skeletal injury is managed. The lasting effects of the primary injury to nerve structures are beyond repair by therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Injury to the urethra results in erectile dysfunction in 50 % of the injured patients it is often associated with urinary incontinence that has a strong effect on the patient's life quality. Isolated trauma to the urinary bladder has a good prognosis. The incidence of post-traumatic incontinence is not high, but reduces the patient's personal and social comfort. A prerequisite for a successful therapeutic outcome is a good cooperation of the orthopaedic surgeon and urologist. Key words: pelvic ring fractures, urogenital injury.

Distance and Beyond: Variables Influencing Conceptions of Food Store Accessibility in Baltimore, Maryland

This article is the result of a project conducted during my tenure with the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). Before my hire, the director of EFNEP had hired a geographic information system (GIS) technician to create a GIS to spatially depict EFNEP clients' accessibility to food resources. By visually representing the relationship between low-income populations and the localities of food stores in Baltimore city, the GIS powerfully illustrated the relative lack of food resources in low-income areas of the city, suggesting serious obstacles to food access. However, when conceiving this type of GIS, it is essential to recognize that although geographic information systems can suggest potential hypotheses, drawing causal relationships between represented variables is problematic because GISs ignore the many behavioral and perceptual factors that affect human beings' decisions. For this reason, I was hired on a four-month contract to conduct an exploratory ethnographic project to complement the GIS.

[Laparoscopic adrenalectomy]

OBJECTIVE

Laparoscopy has become the gold standard for the treatment of adrenal tumours in urology. We evaluate our experience with laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) in this work.

MATERIAL, METHODS

We performed 38 LA between 2003-2008. We use computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the initial evaluation. Indication for procedure is made in cooperation with endocrinologist. We use transperitoneal approach with 3 or 5 ports.

RESULTS

Mean age was 57.7 +/- 11.7 year (range 32-74.9 year). Nine LA were made in men (24%), in women 29 (76%). Sixteen tumours (42%) were hormonal active (7 pheochromocytoma, 6 primary hyperaldosteronism, 3 peripheral hypercortisolism). Twenty-two tumours were without hormonal activity. Mean tumour size was 4.1 +/- 2 cm (range 1-10.1 cm), mean operation time was 89 +/- 38 minutes (range 32-220 minutes), mean blood loss was 33 +/- 75 ml (range 0-400 ml), mean hospitalization time was 6.1 days (range 3-12 days). There were histologically 15 cortical adenomas, 5 nodular cortical hyperplasia, 1 calcificated hematoma, 3 cysts, 2 potentional malignant tumours on interface between adenoma and carcinoma, 1 cortical carcinoma and 7 pheochromocytoma. We found 3 metastases of renal carcinoma in adrenal gland and one metastasis mesenchymal chondrosarcoma too. Transperitoneal approach was chosen in 20 patients (53%) after previous abdominal operation (open cholecystectomy, appendectomy, transperitoneal nephrectomy, aortofemoral bypass). Complications were in 3 cases from 38 (8%). It was one perforation of diaphragm, which was resolve with laparoscopic suture, one postoperative delirium with fudge and agitation, one abscess in wound after extraction of specimen. We have got any conversion in our collection. The body mass index was higher than 38 in 3 patients.

CONCLUSION

LA is a quick and safe procedure with minimal morbidity and mortality. This procedure requires very experienced surgeon. Patients profit especially from miniinvasivity and short convalescence. Especially benign tumours of smaller size (by 8 cm) are indicated, extensive and especially malignant tumours remain a domain of open approach. Previous operations in abdominal cavity do not have to be a contraindication for LA and operation is possible in patients with monster obesity.

[Neoplastic thrombosis of the inferior vena cava in kidney carcinoma]

INTRODUCTION

Neoplastic thromboses of the inferior vena cava occur in about 4-15% of patients with conventional, clear-cell renal carcinoma, and significantly increase intraoperative mortality and morbidity rates.

AIM

Assessment of outcomes of radical nephrectomies with inferior vena cava thrombectomies, performed in the PlzeN Faculty Hospital from 01-01-1999 to 31-12-2008. PATIENT GROUPS AND METHODS: The study included 16 patients, 12 males and 4 females of 63.6 years of age on average (44-75 y.o.a), suffering from conventional, clear-cell renal carcinoma and neoplastic thrombosis of the inferior vena cava. The main symptoms included hematuris in 7 subjects (43.8%), lumbar pressure pain in 4 subjects (25%), leg edema in 2 subjects (12.5%). In 2 patients (12.5%), the finding was accidental and in 1 patient (6.3%), the symptoms were caused by distant metastases. The diagnostic methods included duplex sonography, multidetector computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and cavography. In three subjects, the thrombus was located in the renal vein only (grade I), in 9 subjects, the thrombus propagated below the entry of the hepatic veins (grade II), in 3 subjects, the thrombus extended above the entry of the hepatic veins (grade III) and, in 1 patient, it reached the right atrium (grade IV). All the patients underwent transabdominal radical nephrectomy (pT3b,c,pN0-2,pM 0-1) and inferior vena cava thrombectomy.

RESULTS

The average duration of IVC closure using vascular clips was 6.3 minutes (3-12 minutes), the average blood loss was 1.7 litres. The intraoperativev mortality rate of the whole study group was 0%. In a single patient, an incompletely removed thrombus resulted in massive pulmonary embolization on day 3, which was urgently managed by cardiosurgery with extracorporeal circulation, when the thrombotic mass was removed from the pulmonary artery. Three subjects (18.8%) died due to generalization of the underlying disease 5-17 months after the primary procedure. Two subjects (12.5%) are currently receiving symptomatic treatment for their generalized underlying disease. 11 subjects (68.8%) show no signs of a relaps of the underlying disease at 3 month-5 years after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Radical nephrectomy combined with complete removal of the neoplastic thrombus provides the best prospects for long-term survival rates of the patients.

[Intratubular germ cell neoplasia--review article]

Intratubular germ cell neoplasia is a precursor lesion for germ cell testicular tumors. It is defined as presence of germ cells with abundant vacuolated cytoplasm and large irregular nuclei with nucleoli within seminiferous tubules. The whole morphologic spectrum of intratubular germinal tumors is discussed. Placental alcaline phosphatase, OCT 3/4 can be demonstrated in majority of the cases. Ultrastructural examination does not play a substantial role in differential diagnosis. Gain of chromosome 12p, which is typical for invasive germ cell tumors is absent in pure intratubular germ cell neoplasia. Spermatogonic arrest and rare reactive changes within seminiferous tubuli have to be distinguished from intratubular germ cell neoplasia.

[Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy--the cohort of 150 patients]

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery has been performing in the treatment of renal cancer at the Department of Urology in Plzen since January 2003. We want to present and evaluate our results of laparoscopic nephrectomy (LRN) in the cohort of 150 patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In our institution, 150 LRNs were performed in the period between January 2003 and April 2007, 145 of them transperitoneally and 5 retroperitoneally. These 150 LRNs were completed by 4 different surgeons. We use four trocars in a rhombus disposition for left-sided LRN, we add fifth port for liver elevation for right-sided LRN. We place four ports for retroperitoneoscopical LRN. Renal vessels are sectioned either separately with lockable clips or with endoGIA stapler en bloc. After mobilization of the kidney, it is inserted into the endobag and extracted through the extended incision after the 12 mm port in lower abdomen using splitting incision. 73 right and 77 left LRN were performed in our patients cohort. The mean age of patients was 62.5 +/- 10.2 (range 33.9-84.6) years. The mean operation time was 138 +/- 44 (55-270) minutes. The mean size on CT was 54.3 +/- 15.1 (29-101) mm. The mean hospitalization time was 6.1 +/- 2 (3-15) days. Adrenalectomy was performed in 16 patients, cholecystectomy in 4 patients and appendectomy in 3 patients. Per-operative complications appeared in 5 cases (3%). Post-operative complications appeared in 7 patients (5 %). We can not evaluate own oncological results because of short-time follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LRN has become a new gold standard in the treatment of kidney tumours T1 (to 7 cm) and it represents an important approach in the treatment of kidney tumours in our institution. We highly recommend preoperatively biphasic CT angiography because it shows the exact number and topography of renal vessels. We prefer transperitoneal approach because of the larger working space and better topographical orientation. Patients profit from advantages of miniinvasivity mainly due to the faster return to the normal life. To the main disadvantages of this technique belong the higher technical demands on the operator and a higher prize of the procedure compared to the open operation.

Urological complications of congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus--long-term follow-up of one patient

A male with a severe form of congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (diuresis 10 l per day) had megaureters, megavesica, large residuum and a history of three traumatic ruptures of the megavesica and a recurrent urinary tract infection (RUTI). Hemodialysis was introduced at 41 years of age. At age of 42, he underwent a bilateral retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy to prevent further RUTI and 8 months later transplantation of a cadaver kidney. Intermittent catheterization is necessary due to residual urine in the urinary bladder.

[Miniinvasive laparoscopic or retroperitoneoscopic radical nephrectomy for the parenchymal tumor]

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic (LRNE) or retroperitoneoscopic (RRNE) radical nefrectomy originally published in 1991, respectively in 1993, began to be introduced in common practice at the end of the 20th century. In this work we summarize our findings gathered upon introduction of these methods.

SUBJECTS AND METHODOLOGY

We present a group of 50 miniinvasive nephrectomies conducted during 2003-2004 (46 LRNE and 4 RRNE). LRNE was combined with ipsilateral adrenalectomy in five cases and with cholecystectomy in three cases (in all cases the LRNE was on the right side).

RESULTS

The mean age of the patient subjects was 65 +/- 11 years (34-81). The blood loss was 134 +/- 201 ml (30-1200). The tumor size according to the CT was 50 +/- 13 mm (30-82). Histologically, 45x renal carcinomas, 4x oncocytomas, 1 x urothelial carcinomas were diagnosed. The drain was removed 2.1 +/- 0.9 days following the surgery. The mean hospitalization time was 6.1 +/- 1.6 days (4-9). Only a single major, however lethal, complication arised: In a 74-year old female, the left-sided LRNE due to the carcinoma pT3bG2 and at the same time vaginal hysterectomy, extraction of the renal preparation through the vagina and anterior and posterior vaginoplasty (for a prolaps) were conducted. The patient was repeatedly revised for haemoperitoneum and she exited on the 18th postoperative day due to pneumonia. The mean duration of the LRNE was 168 +/- 40 minutes (80-265). The combined LRNE and cholecystomic procedure lasted 265 minutes. The mean duration of the LRNE with CHE was 213 minutes, and of the LRNE with adrenalectomy was 170 minutes. In 4 cases of the RRNE (indicated three times due to preceeding major surgical procedures in the abdominal cavity and once for the Crohn's disease) the mean duration was 203 minutes.

CONCLUSION

Miniinvasive RNE in TI tumors is a modem reproducible methodology suitable for application in clinical practice. The laparoscopic approach appears more appropriate. The retroperitoneoscopic approach is indicated mainly in cases of postoperative adhesions in the abdominal cavity.

Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma with microcystic and adenomatous arrangement and pigmentation—a diagnostic pitfall. Morphological, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural and molecular genetic report of 20 cases

We present clinical, morphological, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural and molecular genetic features of 20 cases of a peculiar form of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (CRCC) with morphology differing from that of conventional CRCC. Microscopically, the typical features of the tumors were microcystic arrangement and formation of adenomatous structures. Microcystic areas were composed of smaller eosinophilic and bigger pale cells having cytological appearance typical of conventional CRCC. Cytological features of the adenomatous structures were mostly different from those of conventional CRCC. They had a typical columnar arrangement with nuclei positioned at the base of the glandular structures and a small amount of a deeply eosinophilic cytoplasm often endowed with brush border facing the lumen of the glands. In addition, all the tumors showed a brown pigmentation. The pigmentation was located mostly extracellularly, where it formed pools of heavy deposits. Microscopic calcifications present in all cases formed psammoma bodies or else the calcifications were more extensive and amorphous in shape. Ultrastructurally, the cells showed features characteristic of CRCC: typical cytoplasmic vesicles were 100-700 nm in size and mitochondria had tubulovesicular, lamellar or circular cristae. Some tumor cells contained dark, variously sized electron-dense pigment granules. Neither melanosomes nor membrane-bound neurosecretory granules were seen. Using fluorescence in-situ hybridization probes for chromosomes 1, 2, 6, 10, 13, 17 and 21, the tumors revealed massive loss of tested chromosomes typical for conventional CRCC. Monosomy of chromosomes 1, 2, 6, 10, 13 and 21 was found in 100, 36, 91, 82, 82, 82 and 64% of cases, respectively. None of the cases showed mutation of exons 9, 11, 13 and 17 of the c-kit gene. The important feature of pigmented microcystic chromophobe renal cell carcinoma is a relatively benign biological behavior and the absence of distant metastases and sarcomatoid transformation.

[Tumorous diseases in patients with the testicular feminization syndrome ("androgen insensitivity" syndrome)--description of two cases]

OBJECTIVE

To describe tumors occurring in two cases of testicular feminization syndrome.

SUBJECT

Case report.

SETTING

Dpt. of Special Diagnostics SPAU, University Hospital Plzen.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

Two cases of testicular feminization syndrome were selected from four cases in our registry. Patients were 45 and 84-year-old Caucasian "females". Resected material was fixed in formaldehyde, routinely processed and stained with hematoxiline-eosin, inhibin, cytokeratines 20, placentar alkaline phosphatase, CD 99, Melan A, hCG. Sertoli cell adenoma was diagnosed in both patients. Older patient had in addition unclassified sex cord tumor of Leydig cell type. The number of sex chromosomes was examined using FISH analysis in both patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients with testicular feminization syndrome are frequently affected by benign or malignant tumors in the cryptorchid testes. We documented two benign Sertoli cell adenomas and one sex cord tumor of uncertain biological behavior in our patients. The testes should be removed after puberty with subsequent estrogen therapy in patients with testicular feminization syndrome.

[Renal angiomyolipoma, histology, diagnostics and therapy]

BACKGROUND

Renal angiomyolipoma is a benign mezenchymal tumour with prevalence of 0.3-3% of all surgically resected renal tumours. Tumour is often associated with tuberous sclerosis complex or with another fakomatosis. Tumour has typical pathological image in computer tomography notation that enables the diagnosis. Symptomatology and possible complications depend on the tumour size. Large or symptomatic tumours are indicated for resection, nephrectomy or local ablation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

612 patients with renal tumour were operated at the Department of Urology faculty hospital in Pilsen. Angiomyolipoma occurred in 7 patients. Average age at the time of operation was 64 years, ratio female and male was 5:2. Clinical symptomatology was expressed in 3 patients. The size of tumour was 2 to 8 cm, in 5 patient the tumors were solitary. Translumbal tumour resection was performed in 3 patients. These tumours were at the same time multifocal. Suspicion from tuberous sclerosis was pronounced in some care. The angiomyolipoma was accidentally found in 2 cases of nephrectomy, which was indicated for other diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We define diagnosis by means of CT notation in the most of patients. This notation is not typical by any version of angiomyolipoma and we choose therefore surgical revision.

[Papillary renal cell carcinoma surrounded by unusual fibrotic reaction resembling inflammatory pseudotumour--a case report]

Authors report clinicopathological features of an unusual case of composite renal lesion occuring in 32-year-old Caucasian male. The patient was followed for cystic lesion of retroperitoneal-renal region for 5 years. He was indicated for resection of the cystic lesion because of changes of the retroperitoneal mass on CT scan. A cyst was located on upper renal pole. A huge cystic mass filled mainly by necrotic material was resected and submitted for histological examination. The wall of the cyst was composed of fibrous tissue, indistinguishable from inflammatory pseudotumor on histological level. The vital intracystic tissue was formed by well-differentiated papillary renal cell carcinoma. The most important step within differential diagnosis is distinguishing of sarcomatoid differentiation in renal cell carcinoma. This very rare case demonstrates the importance of careful examination of all spindle cell lesions of the kidney.

[Spindle cell and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma (loopoma). 10 case reports]

BACKGROUND

Current classification systems of neoplasms arising from renal parenchyma distinguish 5 categories of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), i.e. conventional RCC, papillary RCC, chromophobe RCC, collecting duct/medullary RCC and unclassified RCC. We present 13 cases of unusual and unclassified spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinomas.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The studied group consisted of 13 patients (7 men and 6 women). They ranged in age from 22 to 65 years (mean 57.3). Generally, the tumours were well circumscribed and confined to the kidney, whitish to grey on section with a diameter 4.5-13 cm (mean 8.6 cm). One patient was investigated for loin pain and nocturia. Three patients had staghorn nephrolithiasis and vague sonographic findings in renal parenchyma. In one patient the renal tumour was found when examined on follow-up examination for prostatic adenocarcinoma. None of our patients was known to have elevated levels of parathyroid hormone due to hyperplasia, adenoma or carcinoma of the parathyroid gland. Clinical follow-up of the patients ranged from 9 months to 8 years (mean 2.3 years). Microscopically, the tumours were composed of two main populations of cells: flattened, spindle cells with sparse cytoplasm and small cuboidal cells with clear to light eosinophilic cytoplasm. Eight patients are currently well without signs of recurrence or metastasis, one had metastasis in the regional lymph node at the time of nephrectomy, one died of unrelated cause, and three were lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

We present 13 cases of unclassified RCC. Our cases were histologically, immunohistochemically and ultrastructurally similar to the hitherto reported case reports of this variant of RCC. It is obvious, that that variant of RCC should be recognised as a new subtype of RCC.

[Urologic complications in pelvic injuries]

OBJECTIVE

Urological complications of pelvic fractures include in particular rupture of the urinary bladder (RUB), injury of the posterior urethra (IPU) and erectile dysfunction (ED). The authors present their own group of patients and in particular the diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm in IPU.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the Plzen Faculty Hospital in 1/1998 to 8/2002 a total of 19 patients were treated with serious urological complications of pelvic fractures--9x RUB, 11x IPU (once with RUB). RUB was in one instance intraperitoneal, in the remainder extraperitoneal.

RESULTS

IPU was without dislocation 6x, with dislocation 5x. Primary "realignment" of the urethra was made in 6 patients (in dislocations and in concurrent rupture of the bladder). In the remaining 5 an epicystostomy was established. In 4 after an interval of 3 months a posterior resection urethroplasty was made because of a distraction defect. One patient with a distraction defect was referred to the urological department of the catchment area and in another patient after-treatment is planned. Severe ED developed in 6 IPU of 10, always in dislocations of the urethra. In one patient we lack information on erections.

CONCLUSION

When IPU is suspected (urethrorhagia), dislocation of the prostate on examination p.r.) ascendent urethrography and IVU are essential. Do not catheterize before completed examination. Then needle epicystostomy is performed, in major dislocations of the urinary bladder or in associated injuries primary "realignment" of the urethra open on a catheter or endoscopically. In distraction defects after 12 weeks a posterior resection plastic operation follows.

[Renal artery embolism]

Renal artery embolism (RAE) is a rare disease. Urgent treatment is necessary, as ischaemia can cause irreversible kidney damage in 60 to 90 minutes. RAE frequently clinically manifests as a pain similar to renal colic. Source of embolus is predominantly the heart at atrial fibrillation. Laboratory findings are unspecific. Ultrasonography with color Doppler imaging is essential. Kidney perfusion is low and upper urinary tract is undilated. Renal function can be recognized by intravenous urography and at renal scintigraphy. In angiography, renal artery is closed with thromboembolus. With no delay, transcatheter clot aspiration should be performed and fibrinolytic agents (tissue plasminogen activator) should be topically administered. Continual heparinisation and later warfarinisation should follow. In spite of successful revascularisation, parameters of kidney function can almost never reach that prior the RAE and shrinkage of kidney becomes a frequent consequence. Treatment can be successful even in patients with renal occlusion lasting over 90 minutes, since occlusion is often incomplete or significant collateral blood supply exists. In conclusion, renal artery embolism must be considered in cases of flank pain in patients with certain risk actors (especially atrial fibrillation). Ultrasonography with color Doppler imaging and urgent angiography of the renal artery are necessary in these cases. Thromboembolus can be then aspirated, and kidney perfused with fibrinolytic agent.

Spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma, a tumour having frequent association with nephrolithiasis: report of 11 cases including a case with hybrid conventional renal cell carcinoma/ spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma components

AIMS

We present the largest series of an unclassified subtype of renal cell carcinoma, which seems to be a distinct morphological entity and which is sometimes designated as spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Eleven cases of spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma were found among 7000 primary renal cell tumours in Pilsen's routine and consultation files. The patients were five men and six women. They ranged in age from 22 to 65 years (mean 56.8). Microscopically, the tumours were composed of two main populations of cells. First, the preponderant type of cells was formed by flattened, spindle cells with sparse cytoplasm. The second cell type was a small cuboidal cell with clear to light eosinophilic cytoplasm. Spindle-shaped cells were arranged in a fascicular pattern often reminiscent of low-grade smooth muscle tumours. Solid areas of spindle cells were also present. Small cuboidal cells formed sparse tubular structures lined by a row of single cells. In addition to all previous published cases of spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma we observed an association of nephrolithiasis in our cases. It was seen in 3/11 of our patients. A previously unreported feature is the occurrence of a conventional renal cell carcinoma component in one of our cases. Seven of our patients are currently well without signs of recurrence or metastasis, one had metastasis in a regional lymph node at the time of nephrectomy, one died of an unrelated condition, and two were lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

We present 11 cases of spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma, which is believed to be a distinctive morphological entity. Our cases were histologically, immunohistochemically and ultrastructurally similar to the previously reported cases of spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma. In contrast to all previously reported cases of spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma, we observed an association with nephrolithiasis in three of our cases; moreover, one of our tumours had a conventional renal cell carcinoma component and another revealed a metastatic focus in a regional lymph node. None of our patients died of the disease. This study confirms that spindle and cuboidal renal cell carcinoma has a low malignant potential.

[Metanephric adenoma. 11 case reports and detection of collagen spherules in one tumor]

Eleven cases of metanephric adenoma are reported. The tumors were selected out of 6500 tumorous and pseudotumorous lesions of the kidney in our registry. Female to male ratio was 1:1.2. The average age of the patients was 48.3 years, with a range of 13-79 years. The mean size of the tumors was 7.2 cm. The tumors were spherical in shape, whitish to yellowish in colour. Histologically, they were arranged in a mainly tubular pattern with short pseudopapillae. The tumorous cells were deeply eosinophilic to basophilic with predominantly round nuclei. Psammomatous bodies were numerous. Immunohistochemically, they reacted positively with antibodies against cytokeratins, vimentin, and WT1. Ultrastructurally, the cytoplasm contained mitochondria, RER, and ribosomes. A collagenous spherulosis, identical with those in salivary gland and mammary tumors, was revealed in one case. The spherules were located mainly inside tubular structures. Ultrastructurally, they were composed of basement membrane-like material, which was surrounded by epithelial cells. Follow-up all of our patients was negative (if known) for 10 months to 4 years.

[Histologic classification of kidney tumors for clinical practice in adults]

Kidney tumors represent a wide scale of histological observations. However, only angiomyolipoma can be recognised preoperatively from results of the graphical examination. Other types can be recognised only on the bases of histological examination. Completely benign tumor is oncocytoma (it represents about 5% of all kidney tumors). Angiomyolipoma (2%) is also benign, though some case reports describing its malign transformation has been published. Angiomyolipoma under 4 cm can be only monitored, the larger tumors should be resected or selectively embolised the arterial blood supply to prevent spontaneous rupture. From the group of benign tumors only cystic nephroma can be diagnosed more often (up to 1%). One of the criteria for diagnosing the renal cortical adenoma is its size under 5 mm. That is why any adenoma, which could be diagnosed by means of graphical examination and therefore clinically significant does not exist. Most of tumors are malign epithelial tumors--renal carcinomas (RC). The are classified according Heidelberg classification into 5 elementary types: clear cell, papillary, chromophobe, originating form collecting ducts and not classifiable. Clear cell (conventional) renal carcinoma (CRC) comes most often (70 to 80%), its malign potential rise with increased size of tumor and with the gradient. Five-year survival is achieved in 30-50%. Granular form of CRC carcinoma (7% of all CRC) is the equivalent of poorly differentiated PRC and it has an adverse prognosis. In contrary, the cystic form of CRC (about 6%) in benign. Papillary form of RC has the five-year survival in 84%, malignant are only tumors poorly differentiated. These are tumors with extensive necroses, which brings a fragile consistency and they can be distinguished by graphical examination. Chromophobe type of RC (5%) has the five-year survival in 90%. Poor prognosis has its sarcomatoid form, which can originate from any RC, but most frequently it is derived from the chromophobe type. The form originating from collecting ducts is highly infrequent and very malignant with the five-year survival in 20% only. The unclassified form of RC (3-5%) includes tumors not suiting to the criteria of the previous RC. Other primary renal malignant tumors (sarcomas, Wilms' tumor of adults, medullar carcinoma, carcinoid) are very rare. Comparatively frequent are metastases of other tumors (namely that of lung carcinoma) and renal impairment in leukemia, which are complication not often met by urologist.

Substrate-bound fibronectin enhances scavenger receptor activity of macrophages by calcium signaling

We have previously found that ability of mouse macrophages to bind and take up oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) through scavenger receptors is significantly enhanced when the cells are plated on fibronectin (FN)-coated culture substrates. Here, the mechanisms of the enhancement of the scavenger receptor activity by the substrate-bound FN was investigated using thioglycollate-induced mouse peritoneal macrophages. A Ca(2+) channel blocker diltiazem and a calmodulin inhibitor W-7 reduced the scavenger receptor activity of the macrophages plated on FN-coated substrate to the level of the cells plated on uncoated substrate, as assessed by oxLDL binding, while the scavenger receptor activity of the macrophages on uncoated substrate was little affected. Similarly, FN-induced enhancement of the scavenger receptor activity assessed by oxLDL uptake was selectively inhibited by Ca(2+) channel blockers (diltiazem, nifedipine, verapamil) and calmodulin inhibitors (W-7, trifluoperazine). Intracellular free Ca(2+) level of the macrophages was increased, depending on extracellular Ca(2+), when plated on FN-coated substrate. This increase in the Ca(2+) level was inhibited by diltiazem and RGD-containing peptides present in cell adhesive region of FN. Like the substrate-bound FN, Ca(2+) ionophore A23187 enhanced the scavenger receptor activity of binding and taking up of oxLDL. These results indicate that substrate-bound FN enhances scavenger receptor activity of macrophages by increasing channel-dependent Ca(2+) influx. A microtubule disruptor, colchicine, and an actin filament disruptor, cytochalasin B, inhibited the FN-induced enhancement of the scavenger receptor activity, suggesting that these cytoskeletal structures are required for transmission of the adhesion signal of FN. The number of the scavenger receptors was found to increase by 1.4-fold upon adhesion signal of FN. We suggest that substrate-bound FN increases the number of the macrophage scavenger receptors as a result of induction of Ca(2+) influx and causes increased accumulation of oxLDL within the cells, rendering the cells more susceptible to conversion into foam cells.

[Erectile dysfunction after surgery for rectosigmoid tumors--diagnosis and therapy]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the standard diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm of erectile dysfunction (ED) after radical operations on account of rectosigmoid tumours.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

At the Faculty Hospital in Plzen from Jan. 1995 till Oct. 1999 the mentioned operation was implemented in 167 men, incl. 98 who were sent a questionnaire concerning postoperative sexual complaints. 39 replied. Those interested were examined further and treatment of ED was started.

RESULTS

Four men, mean age 75.3 +/- 1.0 years were before surgery sexually inactive. In the remaining 35 ED developed in 68.6% (24/35)--mean age 58.2 +/- 9.8 years (in men without ED it was 61.7 +/- 11.1 years), in 37.1% (13/35) ED was complete, in 31.4% (11/35) partial. A postoperative decline of libido was in recorded in 37.1% (13/35) and impaired ejaculation in 65.7% (23/35). In men with postoperative ED 66.7% (16/24) suffered also from another disease causing ED, in men without ED this ratio was only 18.1%. In the group of men with ED, on account of ED 40% were examined and treated (14/35) incl. 10 who were examined for the first time in conjunction with the questionnaire project. Sildenafil was administered to 10 men, an effect sufficient for intercourse was described by two (both with partial ED), a partial effect however inadequate for intercourse was described by four and four recorded no response. Only four men tried intracavernous PGE1 injections and in all instances with a favourable effect.

CONCLUSION

ED which affects about two thirds of patients is not treated as a rule. For examination a rule anamnestic data and physical examination are sufficient. Oral sildenafil treatment is effective only in a small percentage of patients. Intracavernous injections are more effective but are usually refused.

Controlled release of recombinant insulin-like growth factor from a novel formulation of polylactide-co-glycolide microparticles

The purpose of the current study was to develop a controlled-release delivery system for recombinant insulin-like growth factor (rhIGF-I). Polylactide-co-glycolide (PLG) microparticles with entrapped rhIGF-I were prepared by a novel emulsion based solvent evaporation process. Microparticles with two loading levels of rhIGF-I were prepared (4 and 20% w/w). The integrity of released rhIGF-I was characterized by RP-HPLC, SDS-PAGE and a bioactivity assay. In vitro and in vivo release profiles of rhIGF-I from these microparticles were also evaluated. Reproducible batches of microparticles with 4% and 20% w/w loading of rhIGF-I were prepared, with excellent encapsulation efficiency (81 and 85% of total protein respectively entrapped). The protein retained integrity after the microencapsulation process as evaluated by RP-HPLC, SDS-PAGE and bioactivity assay. The in vitro profiles exhibited a significant burst release of rhIGF-I (20-30%), followed by controlled release of protein for up to 28 days. A similar level of burst release was observed in vivo, followed by controlled release of protein for 14-18 days. In addition, there was a surprisingly close correlation between in vitro and in vivo release rates. PLG microparticles with entrapped rhIGF-I are a promising delivery system which may allow rhIGF-I to be used for a broad range of therapeutic indications.

KMD-3213, a uroselective and long-acting alpha(1a)-adrenoceptor antagonist, tested in a novel rat model

KMD-3213, an alpha(1a)-adrenoceptor (AR) antagonist, is under development for the treatment of urinary outlet obstruction in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy. In the present study, we developed a rat model to investigate simply the effects of alpha(1)-AR antagonists on the intraurethral pressure (IUP) response to phenylephrine. Using this model, inhibitory effects of both i.v. and intraduodenally administered KMD-3213 on the IUP response were evaluated and compared to those of other reference compounds, including prazosin and tamsulosin. In addition, the hypotensive effects of these compounds were estimated to evaluate uroselectivity. Intravenously administered alpha(1)-AR antagonists tested, including KMD-3213, potently inhibited the IUP response in a dose-dependent manner. Although the higher doses of those compounds almost completely inhibited the IUP response, yohimbine failed to inhibit the response. When the in vivo potencies of those compounds on IUP response were correlated with their affinities for the human or animal recombinant alpha(1)-AR subtypes, alpha(1a)-AR gave the best correlation. In this model, KMD-3213 had greater uroselectivity than any other compounds examined, by both i.v. and intraduodenal routes. Moreover, 12, 18, and 24 h after the oral administration of KMD-3213, a dose-dependent inhibition of the IUP response was found, whereas the effect of tamsulosin disappeared at 18 h after the oral administration. These data indicate that KMD-3213 is a highly uroselective alpha(1)-AR antagonist with a longer duration of action. In addition, this model is useful for not only estimation of uroselectivity but also some part of the administration, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of many compounds to discover uroselective compounds.

Solubility of recombinant human tissue factor pathway inhibitor

Study of recombinant human tissue factor pathway inhibitor (rhTFPI) solubility shows (1) an inverted bell-shaped pH-solubility profile with a broad solubility minimum between pH 5 and 10 such that the solubility minimum midpoint is 2-3 pH units away from its isoelectric point; (2) a negative temperature-solubility coefficient; (3) a strong dependence of solubility on the valence of electrolytes, with both multivalent cations and anions enhancing this effect; and (4) a significant increase of solubility in the presence of charged polymers. At pH 6-7, rhTFPI solubility-salt profiles display typical salting-in and salting-out biphasic effects. At a slightly lower pH (pH 5), a third phase in addition to the salting-in and salting-out phases was observed at low ionic strength conditions (5 to 50 mM) where rhTFPI solubility increased as salt concentration decreased. The salting-out constant for rhTFPI in NaCl is 1.04 M(-1) and is independent of the pH of the solution. Resolubilization of rhTFPI precipitates revealed that "insolubility precipitates" (seen during buffer exchanges) resulted from protein solute saturation and could be redissolved by "native" solvent conditions. On the other hand, "instability precipitates" (typically seen after exposure to elevated temperatures or extended storage periods) were caused by insoluble protein aggregate formation and required strongly denaturing conditions to redissolve.