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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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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