oncologywatch

Dahl K, Karlsson M, Marits P, et al. Metinel node–the first lymph node draining a metastasis–contains tumor-reactive lymphocytes. Ann Surg Oncol. 2008 May;15(5):1454-63. PMID: 18299934

Researchers in Sweden identify a new clinical entity.

"We located the first draining lymph node or nodes from metastases or local recurrences; we named them ‘metinel nodes.’ Lymphocytes from the metinel nodes proliferated, showed clonal expansion, and produced interferon gamma (via in vitro expansions on stimulation with tumor homogenate) and interleukins, all of which demonstrate the characteristics of tumor-reactive lymphocytes… We demonstrate that it is possible to locate the first lymph nodes draining subcutaneous, lymphatic, and visceral metastases, the so-called metinel nodes. Metinel node–derived lymphocytes may be used to treat disseminated solid cancer, and clinical trials should evaluate the effect of such treatment."

OncologyWatch: Posts about free-access articles on aspects of oncology theory, practice and policy (about the blogger).This blog is not a source for medical advice.

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oncology cancer colorectal cancer melanoma ovarian cancer breast cancer solid tumors

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Thor PJ, Krolczyk G, Gil K, et al. Melatonin and serotonin effects on gastrointestinal motility. J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007 Dec;58 Suppl 6:97-103. Review. PMID: 18212403

A fascinating essay/review on the therapeutic potential of these hormones for people at risk for colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis, gastric ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome.

From the conclusion:

The intelligent modulation of the gastrointestinal motility with melatonin/serotonin on brain-gut axis may be a key point in the treatment of patients resistant to standard therapy functional disorders of GIT. In order to introduce these promising substances into the therapeutic use, basic research for the clear recognition of their interaction and function has to be performed in the nearest future.

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oncology cancer colorectal cancer

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Adelstein BA, Irwig L, Macaskill P, et al. A self administered reliable questionnaire to assess lower bowel symptoms. BMC Gastroenterol. 2008 Mar 1;8:8. PMID: 1831268

An impressive contribution, showing that a simple questionnaire can help to guide clinical consultation in diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

From the conclusion:

This self administered questionnaire about lower bowel symptoms is a useful way of eliciting details of bowel symptoms. It is a reliable instrument that is acceptable to patients and easily completed. Its use could guide the clinical consultation, allowing a more efficient, comprehensive and useful interaction, ensuring that all symptoms are assessed. It will also be a useful tool in research studies on bowel symptoms and their predictive value for colorectal cancer and other diseases.

 

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oncology cancer colorectal cancer

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Ali MM, Vaidya V. Vitamin D and cancer. J Cancer Res Ther. 2007 Oct-Dec;3(4):225-30. Review. PMID: 18270398

A far-ranging essay on the possible role of Vitamin D, acquired primarily through exposure to the sun via the skin, to inhibit tumor development and growth and reduce mortality for certain cancers. From the results and discussion:

"Although sunlight and vitamin D have been positively associated with non-melanoma skin cancer, ecological studies suggest that sunlight may protect against female breast, ovarian, prostate, and colon cancer. The high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, combined with the discovery of increased risks of certain types of cancer in those who are deficient, suggest that vitamin D deficiency may account for several thousand premature deaths from colon, breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer annually." 

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oncology cancer colorectal cancer breast cancer ovarian cancer prostate cancer

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Kemeny N. Presurgical chemotherapy in patients being considered for liver resection. Oncologist. 2007 Jul;12(7):825-39. Review. PMID: 17673614

A timely review by a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center with a special expertise in developing new chemotherapy regimens for colorectal cancer. From the conclusion:

"In patients who are clearly unresectable, there is no question that chemotherapy is the appropriate treatment. However, for those who are clearly resectable, there may be harm in giving preoperative chemotherapy. Until studies demonstrate that preoperative chemotherapy is useful in the resectable patient, those patients should be offered resection first and then be treated with postoperative chemotherapy (systemic therapy or HAI plus systemic therapy). A multidisciplinary approach is essential to develop an effective treatment plan for patients with liver metastases from colorectal carcinoma."

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oncology cancer colorectal cancer

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