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Romania

Cancer Statistics
Population in 2012: 21.4m
People newly diagnosed with cancer (excluding NMSC) / yr: 78,800
Age-standardised rate, incidence per 100,000 people/yr: 224.2
Risk of getting cancer before age 75:23.1%
People dying from cancer /yr: 48,300
Data from IARC GlobalCan (2012)
Romania Cancer Organisations and Resources
Latest Research Publications Related to Romania

Romania Cancer Organisations and Resources (6 links)


Latest Research Publications Related to Romania

Gurzu S, Bara T, Sincu M, et al.
Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas: Two case reports.
Medicine (Baltimore). 2019; 98(29):e16455 [PubMed] Related Publications
RATIONALE: About 8384 cases of solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN) of pancreas have been published in English literature, from 1933 to 2018. This is a low-grade tumor that usually occurs in children but is rare in adults and, in exceptional cases, can show extrapancreatic localization. In this paper we present 2 unusual cases of SPNs, 1 with retroperitoneal location (case 1) and 1 that was firstly diagnosed as a G1 neuroendocrine tumor (NET) and showed hepatic metastases after 13 years (case 2).
PATIENT CONCERNS: No symptoms in first case. The tumor was incidentally diagnosed, during ultrasound examination. In the second case, the metastasis was observed during regular follow-up.
DIAGNOSES: The diagnosis was established based on the histological features and immunohistochemical profile that showed positivity for vimentin, nuclear β-catenin, cyclin D1, CD10, and SRY-related high-mobility group box 11 and negativity for maspin.
INTERVENTIONS: Surgical excision, in both cases.
OUTCOMES: No recurrences in first case, at 5 months after diagnosis. Hepatic metastases in the second case, at 13 years after diagnosis, with portal invasion after another 15 months.
LESSONS: Without a complex immunoprofile, SPN can be misdiagnosed as NET. SPN can be a low-grade tumor but long-time follow-up is mandatory to detect delayed metastases. A correct diagnosis is necessary for a proper therapeutic management.

Sima RM, Radosa JC, Zamfir R, et al.
Novel diagnosis of mesenteric endometrioma: Case report.
Medicine (Baltimore). 2019; 98(29):e16432 [PubMed] Related Publications
RATIONALE: Mesenteric cysts are benign gastrointestinal cystic lesions, with an incidence of <1/100 000. They usually develop in the small bowel mesentery, mesocolon (24%), retroperitoneum (14.5%), and very rarely originate from the sigmoid mesentery. Endometriomas represent a localized type of endometriosis and are usually within the ovary. Our case is unique because there are no reports in the literature of endometrial mesenteric cysts.
PATIENT CONCERNS: We present a case of a 29-year-old woman who underwent a routine gynecologic control.
DIAGNOSIS: Clinical examination and imaging identified 2 endometriomas on the left and posterior to the uterus.
INTERVENTIONS: The patient underwent exploratory laparoscopy. Unexpectedly, a 10 cm mesenteric cyst was identified; this was associated with adhesions in the left adnexal area and a left ovarian endometrioma. The classic surgical approach which was necessary identified the mesenteric cyst with cranial mesosigmoid and ileal adhesions, as well as distal adhesions which included the uterus, ileum, left ovarian endometrioma, left hydrosalpinx, left ureter, and rectum. The cyst was removed completely and a left adnexectomy was performed because of the presence of the endometrioma and adhesions.
OUTCOMES: The patient's outcome was favorable, with discharge at 72 hours after surgery. The histopathological report revealed that both the mesenteric and ovarian cysts were endometriomas.
LESSONS: Our case is unusual in that a mesenteric cyst was identified in a patient with no clinical symptoms. Furthermore, the histopathological examination revealed the endometriotic origin of the mesenteric cyst which has not previously been reported in the literature.

Mărginean CO, Meliţ LE, Patraulea F, et al.
Early onset Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, the importance of appropriate diagnosis and follow-up: A case report.
Medicine (Baltimore). 2019; 98(27):e16381 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
RATIONALE: Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is currently defined as an inherited condition, also called a familial hamartomatous polyposis syndrome, characterized by the association between pigmented mucocutaneous lesions and hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, especially in the small bowel.
PATIENT CONCERNS: We present the case of a 7-year-old male patients, diagnosed at the age of 3 years with PJS due to a surgical intervention for acute abdominal pain that revealed a rectal polyp associated with hyperpigmented maculae on the lips and oral mucosa. His family history revealed the same condition in his mother, who was diagnosed much later, at the age of 25 years.
DIAGNOSES: The upper and lower digestive endoscopy revealed multiple polyps of different sizes within the stomach, and 2 polyps at 5 cm from the anal orifice. The barium enterography revealed 3 polyps within the ileum.
INTERVENTIONS: We administered blood transfusions and both recto-anal polyps were surgically removed.
OUTCOMES: The outcome was favorable and the patient was discharged with the recommendations for clinical assessment at least every 6 months, annual laboratory tests, but also follow-up of the detected polyps and screening by upper digestive endoscopy, barium enterography and colonoscopy every 2 years.
LESSONS: Early onset of PJS presenting with polys is quite rare since they require time for their development manifesting usually after the first decade of life. Close monitoring is essential for PJS in order to prevent potential complications and early detect the development of related malignancies.

Militaru A, Zus S, Cimpean AM, et al.
Early Diagnosis of Cardiotoxicity in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
Anticancer Res. 2019; 39(6):3255-3264 [PubMed] Related Publications
BACKGROUND/AIM: Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity may be observed during treatment or may cause severe cardiac failure as the main cause of death, even several years after therapy implementation. Herein, the aim was to establish the early diagnosis of cardiotoxicity through the periodic evaluation of the left ventricular (LV) and vascular remodeling parameters, in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study population included 35 patients diagnosed with ALL, evaluated before and 3 months after starting chemotherapy, measuring systolic and diastolic parameters of the LV and intima-media thickness (IMT), arterial stiffness aortic pulse wave velocity (PWVAo) and ankle-brachial index (ABI).
RESULTS: After the first 2 cycles of chemotherapy, all patients experienced a drop in LV ejection fraction (LVEF) (p<0.001), and 12 patients suffered a decrease of LVEF<50%. The ABI (p<0.05) and the global longitudinal strain (GLS) (p<0.001) decreased, while IMT and PWVAo (p<0.001) increased, proving a subclinical deterioration of the LV function and vascular remodeling.
CONCLUSION: Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors before chemotherapy initiation in ALL patients may be helpful for an early diagnosis of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, thus contributing to early treatment and a subsequent decrease of death caused by such cardiovascular complications.

Ribigan AC, Bajenaru OL, Antochi FA, Bajenaru OA
Nociceptive pain unmasking a serious pathology - paraneoplastic hypertrophic osteoarthropathy: A case report.
Medicine (Baltimore). 2019; 98(23):e15900 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
RATIONALE: Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy, also named Pierre Marie-Bamberger syndrome, represents a rare medical condition that may be considered either a primary or a secondary disease, and lung malignancies are responsible for more than two-thirds of the cases with secondary forms of the disease.
PATIENT CONCERNS: We present the case of a 41-year-old man referred to our Neurology Department for pain that was considered secondary to cervical disc protrusions. The neurologic examination was normal. However, the general examination showed digital clubbing, right lateral cervical adenopathy, and pachydermia. The radiographic examinations of the upper and lower limbs depicted osseous abnormalities typical for periostosis, and the computed tomography of the thorax showed the presence of a mass lesion in the right upper pulmonary lobe. High values of vascular endothelial growth factor were also found. The patient was admitted to the Pneumology Clinic, where biopsy was performed from the lateral cervical adenopathy.
DIAGNOSES: The anatomopathological examination revealed multiple neoplastic infiltrates suggestive of adenocarcinoma metastasis. Based on the clinical examination and radiological and histologic findings, the diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma with lymph nodes metastases and paraneoplastic hypertrophic osteoarthropathy was established.
INTERVENTIONS: The patient received treatment with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and opiate analgesics that relieved the pain.
OUTCOMES: The patient was referred to the Oncology Department for further treatment of the primary pathology. He received different types of chemotherapeutics, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, despite all therapeutic measures, the disease rapidly progressed and the patient died 9 months later.
LESSONS: This is an interesting case of a patient with an overlooked pathology, which was refereed to our clinic for further investigations of a pain that was considered neuropathic, secondary to small cervical protrusions. Conversely, the pain proved to be nociceptive and Pierre Marie-Bamberger syndrome was the positive diagnosis in our patient, as it can be associated with numerous diseases, especially of neoplastic origin.

Bordianu A, Zamfirescu D
The hidden cause of chronic finger pain: Glomus Tumor - A Case Report.
J Med Life. 2019 Jan-Mar; 12(1):30-33 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
Glomus tumors are frequently associated with pain, tenderness and cold sensitivity. We report the diagnosis and successful surgical management of a case of a classic glomus tumor in a young woman. The clinical diagnosis was made on the basis of medical history and MRI findings. The lesion was excised via a dorsolateral subungual approach, leading to the complete resolution of symptoms. Histology confirmed the lesion to be a glomus tumor. Glomus tumors are painful subungual lesions. They produce a throbbing or lancinating local discomfort, cold-sensitivity, and severe pain following minor trauma. The diagnosis is confirmed by histology, but the clinical diagnosis is highly suggestive. Complete excision will usually relieve pain. Recurrence is common following incomplete resection.

Scripcariu DV, Moraru GV, Huţanu I, et al.
The Influence of Neoadjuvant Treatment on the Number of Lymph Nodes on the Surgical Specimen in Mid and Low Rectal Cancer - A Retrospective Single-Centre Study.
Chirurgia (Bucur). 2019 Mar-Apr; 114(2):207-215 [PubMed] Related Publications

Enciu O, Calu V, Angelescu M, et al.
Emergency Surgery and Oncologic Resection for Complicated Colon Cancer: What Can We Expect? A Medium Volume Experience in Romania.
Chirurgia (Bucur). 2019 Mar-Apr; 114(2):200-206 [PubMed] Related Publications

Dumitrascu T, Stroescu C, Tomulescu V, Ionescu M
Technical Issues and Early Outcomes of Restorative Proctocolectomy for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis and Ulcerative Colitis: The Largest Romanian Single-Team Experience.
Chirurgia (Bucur). 2019 Mar-Apr; 114(2):179-190 [PubMed] Related Publications
Background/ Aim: Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) is a complex surgical procedure used to treat patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The present study aims to assess the technical issues and early outcomes of RPC for FAP and UC, in a relatively large single-team series of patients. Patients and

Carpenco E, Ceauşu RA, Cimpean AM, et al.
Mast Cells as an Indicator and Prognostic Marker in Molecular Subtypes of Breast Cancer.
In Vivo. 2019 May-Jun; 33(3):743-748 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
BACKGROUND/AIM: Mast cells (MCs) represent the most controversial non-malignant element of the tumor microenvironment. Our aim was to study how MCs density and distribution (intratumoral-MCit versus peritumoral-MCpt) relate to tumor grade and molecular subtypes.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: MCs tryptase immunohistochemistry was performed on 80 cases of breast carcinomas.
RESULTS: For Luminal A tumors, a partial correlation was detected between MCit and progesterone receptor (PR) (p=0.005). Luminal B tumors showed a significant correlation between MCpt and age (p=0.009), estrogen receptor (ER) (p=0.017) and PR (p=0.035). MCit and MCpt were strongly interrelated in this subtype (p=0.002) and in triple-negative breast cancers (p=0.002). In HER2 subtype, MCpt tumors were significantly correlated with HER2 (p=0.044). In G2 tumors, MCpt correlated with ER (p=0.015) and PR (p=0.038) while in G3 tumors ER correlated with both MCit (p=0.009) and MCpt (p=0.000487) tumors.
CONCLUSION: MCs dynamics are strongly influenced by hormone receptors and HER2 status. MCit increased in aggressive tumor types and is a worse prognostic factor.

Tsilimigras DI, Hyer JM, Moris D, et al.
Prognostic utility of albumin-bilirubin grade for short- and long-term outcomes following hepatic resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A multi-institutional analysis of 706 patients.
J Surg Oncol. 2019; 120(2):206-213 [PubMed] Related Publications
BACKGROUND: The objective of the current study was to define the impact of albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade on short- as well as long-term outcomes among patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).
METHODS: Patients who underwent hepatectomy for ICC between 1990 and 2016 were identified using an international multi-institutional database. Clinicopathologic factors including ALBI score were assessed using bivariate and multivariable analyses, as well as standard survival analyses.
RESULTS: Among 706 patients, 453 (64.2%) patients had ALBI grade 1, 231 (32.7%) ALBI grade 2, and 22 (3.1%) had ALBI grade 3. After adjusting for all competing factors, patients with ALBI grade 2/3 had higher odds of a prolonged length-of-stay (>10 days, odds ratio [OR] = 2.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.47-3.80), perioperative transfusion (OR = 2.15, 95% CI:1.45-3.18) and 90-day mortality (OR = 2.50, 95% CI:1.16-5.38). Median and 5-year overall survival (OS) for the entire cohort was 41.5 months (IQR:15.7-107.8) and 39.8%, respectively. Of note, median OS incrementally worsened with increased ALBI grade: grade 1, 49.6 months (IQR:18.3-NR) vs grade 2, 29.6 months (IQR:12.6-98.4) vs grade 3, 16.9 months (IQR:6.5-32.4; P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, higher ALBI grade remained associated with higher hazards of death (grade 2/3: hazard ratio = 1.36, 95% CI:1.04-1.78).
CONCLUSION: The ALBI score was associated with both short- and long-term outcomes following resection for ICC and could prove a useful surrogate marker to identify patients at risk for adverse outcomes.

Mărginean CO, Mărginean C, Chinceşan M, et al.
Pediatric ovarian tumors, a challenge for pediatrician and gynecologist: Three case reports (CARE compliant).
Medicine (Baltimore). 2019; 98(16):e15242 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
RATIONALE: Ovarian or adnexal tumors are very rare in patients below the age of 18 years, most of them being functional cysts, only 10% being malignant. We report 3 cases of ovarian tumors with the aim of revealing the particularities regarding the diagnosis and management of benign and malignant ovarian tumors in pediatric patients.
PATIENT CONCERNS: The 1st case, a 9-year-old girl presented for diffuse abdominal pain, distended abdomen and rapid increase in abdominal volume. The 2nd case describes a 13-year-old female patient admitted for acute abdominal pain and nausea, and the 3rd one was an 18-year-old female teenager who presented for distended abdomen, intermittent diffuse abdominal pain and rapid increase in abdomen volume.
DIAGNOSES: The abdominal ultrasound revealed in all 3 patients suggestive signs for ovarian tumors.
INTERVENTIONS: The 1st patient underwent laparotomy with adnexectomy, and the histopathological exam showed the diagnosis of dysgerminoma. The 2nd patient underwent laparoscopy with adnexectomy, and the histopathological exam revealed a borderline tumor. The 3rd patient benefited by a laparotomy with left ovariectomy, and the histopathological exam pointed out a mature teratoma.
OUTCOMES: The outcome was favorable in all 3 cases, but the patients with dysgerminoma and mature teratoma were further referred to the oncologist for proper assessment.
LESSONS: Laparoscopy may represent the first choice for uncomplicated ovarian masses. The diagnosis and the therapeutic plan must be based on symptoms, pelvic ultrasound, the time of menarche and the potential serum markers.

Sahara K, Tsilimigras DI, Mehta R, et al.
A novel online prognostic tool to predict long-term survival after liver resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: The "metro-ticket" paradigm.
J Surg Oncol. 2019; 120(2):223-230 [PubMed] Related Publications
BACKGROUND: The aim of the current study was to develop an online calculator to predict survival after liver resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) based on the "metro-ticket" paradigm.
METHODS: Between 1990 and 2016, patients who underwent liver resection for ICC were identified in an international multi-institutional database. The final multivariable model of survival was used to develop an online prognostic calculator of survival.
RESULTS: Among 643 patients, actual 5-year overall survival (OS) after resection for ICC was 42.7%. On multivariable analysis, CA19-9 > 200 (hazard ratio (HR), 2.62; 95% CI, 2.01-3.42), sum of the number and largest tumor size >7 (HR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.46-2.42), N1 disease (HR, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.98-4.16), R1 resection (HR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.21-2.46), poor/undifferentiated tumor grade (HR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.25-2.44), major vascular invasion (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.03-2.10), and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.45-0.89) were significantly associated with survival and were included in the online calculator. The predictive accuracy of the model was good to very good as the C-statistics to predict 5-year OS was 0.696 in the training dataset and 0.672 with bootstrapping resamples (n = 5000) in the test dataset.
CONCLUSION: A novel, online calculator was developed to estimate the 5-year survival probability for patients undergoing resection for ICC. This tool could help provide useful information to guide treatment decision-making and inform conversations about prognosis.

Cioca A, Muntean D, Bungardean C
CD105 as a tool for assessing microvessel density in renal cell carcinoma.
Indian J Pathol Microbiol. 2019 Apr-Jun; 62(2):239-243 [PubMed] Related Publications
Background: Angiogenesis plays an essential role in both tumor growth and metastasis. CD105 expression was correlated with prognosis in many tumors, but its value in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is still questionable.
Materials and Methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate microvessel density (MVD) by using CD105 marker, in 95 cases of renal cell carcinoma.
Results: CD105 showed positivity in 93 cases. The mean MVD value was significantly higher in clear cell carcinoma compared to papillary and chromophobe subtypes (P = 0.000). We noticed a significant correlation between MVD and ISUP grade (P = 0.007). The highest MVD value was observed in tumors with ISUP grade 1 and 2, while the lowest MVD value was noted in ISUP grade 3 tumors. A high vessel density was identified in tumors with a low Fuhrman grade, compared to those with a high grade (P = 0.010). MVD value was lower in tumors with a larger diameter, compared to small ones (P = 0.026).
Conclusion: In conclusion, CD105 expression (MVD) is inversely related to tumor aggressiveness in clear cell RCC and can be used as a favorable prognosis marker. The vascularity differences between histological subtypes of RCCs could be useful for a better selection of patients that may benefit from anti-angiogenic therapies.

Yeung AWK, Horbańczuk M, Tzvetkov NT, et al.
Curcumin: Total-Scale Analysis of the Scientific Literature.
Molecules. 2019; 24(7) [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
The current study aimed to provide a comprehensive bibliometric overview of the literature on curcumin, complementing the previous reviews and meta-analyses on its potential health benefits. Bibliometric data for the current analysis were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection database, using the search string TOPIC=("curcumin*"), and analyzed by the VOSviewer software. The search yielded 18,036 manuscripts. The ratio of original articles to reviews was 10.4:1. More than half of the papers have been published since 2014. The major contributing countries were the United States, China, India, Japan, and South Korea. These publications were mainly published in journals representing the following scientific disciplines: biochemistry, chemistry, oncology, and pharmacology. There was a significant positive correlation between the total publication count and averaged citations per manuscript for affiliations, but not for countries/regions and journals. Chemicals that were frequently mentioned in the keywords of evaluated curcumin publications included curcuminoids, resveratrol, chitosan, flavonoids, quercetin, and polyphenols. The literature mainly focused on curcumin's effects against cancer, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Cancer types most frequently investigated were breast, colon, colorectal, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.

Tat T, Jurj A, Selicean C, et al.
Antiproliferative effects of propofol and lidocaine on the colon adenocarcinoma microenvironment.
J BUON. 2019 Jan-Feb; 24(1):106-115 [PubMed] Related Publications
PURPOSE: Certain anesthetic interventions may influence the postoperative outcome in surgical cancer patients. Our study investigated the antiproliferative effects of propofol and lidocaine in two colon cancer cells lines, fibroblasts and in co-cultures.
METHODS: The antiproliferative effects of concentrations of propofol and lidocaine were assessed in HCT-116 and RKO cell lines, in fibroblasts (CCD-18Co) and in co-culture system.
RESULTS: Both propofol (2-4 mcg/ml) and lidocaine (2-4 µM) inhibited significantly colon cancer cell proliferation (p<0.05). Caspase-8, heat-shock proteins (HSP-27 and HSP-60), insulin growth factor (IGF)-II, insulin growth factor binding proteins, p53 protein and survivin were significantly differentially expressed in malignant cells and in fibroblasts exposed to lidocaine.
CONCLUSION: Lidocaine and propofol selectively inhibited colon cancer cells proliferation. Antiproliferative effects were tumor-, dose- and time-dependent and may be at least partially explained by activation of apoptosis protein pathways. Further studies are necessary to confirm the clinical impact of our data.

Bara T, Gurzu S, Jung I, et al.
Sentinel node biospy using intravital blue dye: An useful technique for identification of skip metastases in gastric cancer.
Medicine (Baltimore). 2019; 98(12):e14951 [PubMed] Related Publications
As the lymph node status remains the main prognostic factor of gastric cancer (GC), several lymph node-based staging systems have been recently proposed for an appropriate postoperative therapy. The identification of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) might improve the postoperative protocols. The aim of this study was to present our experience in detecting SLNs in GC using methylene blue dye.We have performed an observational study and retrospectively analyzed all of the consecutive cases of GC operated by the same surgical team and managed by the same pathologists during 2013 to 2015. In all of the cases SLN status was determined using the methylene blue that was intraoperatively administered in the peritumoral subserosal tissue. All blue colored nodes were histopathologically examined. In the node negative cases immunohistochemical stains using AE1/AE3 keratin were performed.The blue SLNs were identified in 48 out of the 50 cases included in the study, with a 96% sensitivity and 87.50% specificity. From the 48 cases, 34 (70.83%) presented positive SLNs; in the other 14 cases the SLNs were negative (29.17%). False negativity was observed in 6 of the 14 cases. In 2 of the cases the false negativity of the group 20 was induced by the anthracotic pigment. In other 2 false negative cases, although no regional metastases were founded, sentinel skip metastases in the group 8 and 15, respectively, were identified.Mapping of the SLNs is a simple and cheap method that might improve the accuracy of LN-based staging of patients with GC and favor identification of skip metastases.

Radu IC, Hudita A, Zaharia C, et al.
Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-CO-3-hydroxyvalerate) PHBHV biocompatible nanocarriers for 5-FU delivery targeting colorectal cancer.
Drug Deliv. 2019; 26(1):318-327 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
Aiming to address the issue of poor bioavailability of most anti-tumor medicines against colorectal cancer, we developed a targeted anticancer nanocarrier using biocarriers able to both bind and easily release their load in a controlled manner. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) carriers were obtained via the emulsification-diffusion method, loaded with 5-fluorouracil and then characterized in terms of particle morphology and size (SEM, DLS), drug uptake and release. The cytotoxic potential of the 5-fluorouracil-loaded polymer nanocarriers on human adenocarcinoma cells (HT-29 cell line) was investigated. The in vitro studies clearly demonstrated that while the nanocarriers themselves slightly alter HT-29 cell viability, when loaded with 5-fluorouracil they significantly decrease cell viability, suggesting that the polymer itself exhibits low cytotoxicity and the drug-loaded carrier acts in an efficient manner to kill HT-29 human adenocarcinoma cells.

Liviu Preda A, Galieta Mincă D
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Treatment for Metastatic Renal Carcinoma in Romania.
J Med Life. 2018 Oct-Dec; 11(4):306-311 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications

Schaffer P, Batash R, Ertl-Wagner B, et al.
Treatment of cervix carcinoma FIGO IIIb with Photofrin II as a radiosensitizer: a case report.
Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2019; 18(5):1275-1279 [PubMed] Related Publications
Cervical cancer is the fourth-most common type of cancer and cause of death in women. Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is responsible for over 90% of cervical cancers. The recommended treatment is multidisciplinary, consisting of a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The standard treatment in advanced stages, such as FIGO IIIb, is radio-chemotherapy with overall 5-year survival of 32%. Photofrin II has been demonstrated to serve as a specific and selective radiosensitizing agent in both in vitro and in vivo tumor models, admitted for radiation therapy. We describe a patient with advanced cervical carcinoma (squamous cell) who contacted us for further therapy in 2003. Staging included a gynecological examination, colonoscopy, explorative laparotomy, biopsy and pelvic MRI. The explorative laparotomy showed enlarged pelvic and para-aortal lymph nodes. The histologic examination described tumor infiltrated, positive lymph nodes (Stage FIGO IIIb). Contrary to recommendations, the patient refused standard treatment with a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but accepted a combined treatment of Photofrin II as a radiosensitizer and a radiotherapy procedure. She underwent irradiation with a 50.4 + 14 Gy boost with fractionation of 1.8 Gy day-1 for 5 days per week; the boost was given with 2 Gy fractions. She was injected with a single intravenous dose in a slow infusion (30 min) of 1 mg kg-1 of Photofrin II 24 h prior to radiation therapy. A localized relapse in the cervix appeared after 30 months, and was resected by hysterectomy. The patient is still alive with no evidence of disease after 15 years.

Martiniuc G, Turliuc DM, Miron M, Martiniuc C
A possible case of Erdheim-Chester Disease.
Rom J Ophthalmol. 2018 Oct-Dec; 62(4):308-311 [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications

Gonganau-Nitu D, Scurtu RR, Precup CG, Ciuce C
An experimental protocol for
J Cancer Res Ther. 2019 Jan-Mar; 15(1):164-168 [PubMed] Related Publications
Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RF) is already a viable alternative to surgical resection for focal liver tumors treatment. The use of RF ablation in combination with surgery or chemotherapy and the large panel of RF tools need new experimental models to develop new opportunities for this kind of therapy.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the optimal RF parameters that will allow in situ colic cancer liver metastases destruction with minimal secondary effects.
Materials and Methods: The CC531s colic cancer tumor cells were used to induce liver metastases in 30 synergic Wag/Rij rats. When metastases reached at least 1 cm in diameter, RF generator RITA 1500X, and expandable tip RF probe Starburst SDE (Angiodynamics, USA) was used for the RF ablation. The animal survival rate and the RF-induced lesions have been studied, while only the generator delivered power has been modified (90W, 20W, and 10W, respectively).
Results: Survival was significantly low in the group with 90W-delivered power RF. Moreover, statistically significant differences were revealed between groups with high and low RF power, regarding the morphological changes of the liver parenchyma and the adjacent organs, without significant difference on the RF therapeutically effect.
Conclusions: In an experimental setting, an increased RF generator power induces important lesions of the abdominal organs with subsequently important mortality rate, without improving the RF therapeutic efficiency.

Eniu DT, Romanciuc F, Moraru C, et al.
The decrease of some serum free amino acids can predict breast cancer diagnosis and progression.
Scand J Clin Lab Invest. 2019 Feb - Apr; 79(1-2):17-24 [PubMed] Related Publications
This study was targeted on a metabolomic approach to compare the blood serum free amino acid profiles and concentration of confirmed breast cancer (stages I-III) patients to healthy controls in order to establish reliable biomarkers of early detection and prediction of breast cancer. The ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry using positive ionization electrospray was applied for the picoline-derivatized serum free amino acids using the EZ:faastTM kit. Multivariate statistical analysis principal component analysis, partial least squares discrimination analysis and univariate analysis were applied in order to discriminate between patient groups and putative amino acid biomarkers for breast cancer. A significant decrease of amino acid concentrations between the breast cancer group and the control group was positively correlated with breast cancer progression. Arginine, Alanine, Isoleucine, Tyrosine and Tryptophan were identified as being good potential discriminants (AUROC ≥0.85) and suitable candidates to diagnose and predict the breast cancer progression.

Tsaur I, Heidegger I, Kretschmer A, et al.
Aggressive variants of prostate cancer - Are we ready to apply specific treatment right now?
Cancer Treat Rev. 2019; 75:20-26 [PubMed] Related Publications
Recently, adoption of novel drugs for systemic treatment of metastatic prostate cancer has led to a striking improvement of response rate and survival in both hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant disease. In most cases, prostate cancer essentially depends on androgen receptor signaling axis, even in castration-resistant setting, and hence may be targeted by second generation hormonal therapy. However, a subset of patients bears androgen-independent cancer biology with a short-term response to hormonal treatment, early and extensive visceral metastases, low PSA levels and poor outcomes. Identification and specific management of these rapidly fatal malignancies is of an unmet medical need since their classification and utilized therapeutic regimens vary significantly. Unfortunately, molecular pathways have not been sufficiently elucidated yet in order to provide an effective targeted treatment with a prolonged response. Lack of diagnostic and predictive biomarkers for these cancers makes successful counteractions against them even more sophisticated. In this comprehensive review, we aimed at summarizing the current body of literature reporting on causal molecular machinery as well as diagnostic and therapeutic concepts of aggressive prostate tumors and draw clinically relevant conclusions for the up-to-date sensible disease management.

Budisan L, Gulei D, Jurj A, et al.
Inhibitory Effect of CAPE and Kaempferol in Colon Cancer Cell Lines-Possible Implications in New Therapeutic Strategies.
Int J Mol Sci. 2019; 20(5) [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
BACKGROUND: Phytochemicals are natural compounds synthesized as secondary metabolites in plants and represent an important source of molecules with therapeutic applications. Attention is accorded to their potential in anti-cancer therapies as single agents or adjuvant treatment. Herby, we evaluated the in vitro effects of a panel of natural compounds with focus on caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and Kaempferol for the treatment of human colon cancer.
METHODS: We exposed two human colon cancer cell lines, RKO and HCT-116, followed by functional examination of cell viability, cell proliferation and invasion, cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy. Modifications in gene expression were investigated through microarray and detection of existing mutations and finding of new ones was done with the help of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).
RESULTS: Both CAPE and Kaempferol inhibit cell proliferation, motility and invasion, and stimulate apoptosis and autophagy, concomitant with modifications in coding and noncoding genes' expression. Moreover, there are pathogenic mutations that are no longer found upon treatment with CAPE and Kaempferol.
CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that CAPE and Kaempferol have the ability to negatively influence the development and advancement of colon cancer in vitro by specifically altering the cells at the molecular level; this activity can be exploited in possible adjuvant therapies once the optimal dose concentration with minimal side effects but with cancer inhibitory activity is set in vivo.

Blidaru A, Bordea C, Burcoş T, et al.
Mind the Gap Between Scientific Literature Recommendations and Effective Implementation. Is There Still a Role for Surgery in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Cervical Carcinoma?
Chirurgia (Bucur). 2019 Jan-Feb; 114(1):18-28 [PubMed] Related Publications
According to evidence accumulated in the last years, many cancer centers recommend a treatment plan based solely on chemo-radiotherapy and exclude surgery from the treatment options in locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). In Romania, surgery was at the forefront of therapeutic options. Nevertheless, current data shows that in fact, a large number of patients are still referred to surgery in various stages of diagnosis and treatment. It was noted that recommendations may differ, in spite of the wide dissemination of the literature data.Works published so far, discussing the role of surgery in LACC treatment shows a lack of consensus. A group of experts in oncology (SURCECAN research group - Surgery of Cervical Cancer) met for a session of the Romanian Surgical Society (Bucharest) on April 18, 2018. They found that LACC therapeutic strategy in Romania may differ somewhat from the European recommendations.On top of that, late enrolement to RT and low acces to specialized centers are the problem. Performing surgery not only allows the evaluation of the pathological response to chemo-radiotherapy, but also achieves a better local control. In conclusion, there is still a place for surgery within locally advanced cervical cancer treatment options. More trials need to be carried out in order to confirm the findings and establish high levels of confidence for each piece of information provided.

Costea T, Nagy P, Ganea C, et al.
Molecular Mechanisms and Bioavailability of Polyphenols in Prostate Cancer.
Int J Mol Sci. 2019; 20(5) [PubMed] Free Access to Full Article Related Publications
Prostate cancer is the one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among men over the age of 50. Several lines of evidence support the observation that polyphenols have preventive and therapeutic effects in prostate cancer. Moreover, prostate cancer is ideal for chemoprevention due to its long latency. We propose here an equilibrated lifestyle with a diet rich in polyphenols as prophylactic attempts to slow down the progression of localized prostate cancer or prevent the occurrence of the disease. In this review, we will first summarize the molecular mechanisms of polyphenols in prostate cancer with a focus on the antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects, androgen receptors (AR), key molecules involved in AR signaling and their transactivation pathways, cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, genetic aspects, and epigenetic mechanisms. The relevance of the molecular mechanisms is discussed in light of current bioavailability data regarding the activity of polyphenols in prostate cancer. We also highlight strategies for improving the bioavailability of polyphenols. We hope that this review will lead to further research regarding the bioavailability and the role of polyphenols in prostate cancer prevention and treatment.

Longo MI, Bulliard JL, Correia O, et al.
Sunbed use legislation in Europe: assessment of current status.
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019; 33 Suppl 2:89-96 [PubMed] Related Publications
BACKGROUND: The use of UV-emitting tanning devices for cosmetic purposes is associated with an increased risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Young women are the most frequent users, therefore, there is an increasing concern about the regulation of sunbed use.
OBJECTIVE: The primary objective is to assess the current legislation on sunbed use among European countries.
METHODS: We developed a 30-item questionnaire to gather the most relevant information about sunbed use legislation. The questionnaire was sent to Euromelanoma coordinators and to designated coordinators out of the Euromelanoma network.
RESULTS: We obtained a response rate of 64%. More than 25% of the countries did not report any specific legislation. Roughly one-third of the countries does not have a restriction for minors. Even in countries with a specific legislation, a lack or insufficient enforcement of age limit was observed in up to 100% of the inspections based on the PROSAFE report from 2012. Self-tanning devices were reported in 50%, and almost 40% of countries do not require supervision of use. Although a warning display is required in 77% of cases, a signed informed consent is not required in 80%. In the vast majority of cases, the number of licensed or closed tanning centres is unknown.
CONCLUSIONS: Despite the evidence of its harmful effects, and its frequent use by young people, many of whom are at high risk of skin cancer because of fair skin, a significant number of European countries lack a specific legislation on tanning devices. In order to limit the access of young people to sunbeds, a more strictly enforced regulation is needed, as well as regulation regarding advertisement, and location of tanning centres, in addition to health promotion campaigns that target the vulnerable population of young women seeking its use for improved cosmesis.

Krensel M, Schäfer I, Augustin M
Modelling first-year cost-of-illness of melanoma attributable to sunbed use in Europe.
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019; 33 Suppl 2:46-56 [PubMed] Related Publications
BACKGROUND: Melanoma is a life-threatening disease of the skin with an increasing incidence of approximately 87 000 new cases treated per year in the European Union and the European Free Trade Association states resulting in considerable costs for the society. Since the use of sunbeds is known to be a risk factor, which can be easily avoided, costs of malignant melanoma attributable to sunbed use are modelled in the present study.
METHODS: Costs-of-illness of melanoma were calculated and compared for all member states of the European Union and the European Free Trade Association states using an established modelling approach. Calculations were based on a systematic literature research. For countries with no available information on cost-of-illness the gross domestic product, health expenditures and gross national income served as a basis for extrapolation of costs. International comparison was enabled by adjusting costs by the national purchasing power parity.
RESULTS: After adjusting melanoma treatment costs for the purchasing power parity, direct costs per patient vary between € 1056 in Romania and € 10 215 in Luxembourg. Costs due to morbidity range from € 102 per patient in Sweden and € 5178 in the UK resulting in total costs of € 1751-€ 12 611 per patient. Average weighted total costs per patient amount for € 6861-€ 6967 annually. In total, in 2012 approximately 4450 new cases of melanoma have been induced by sunbed use in the 31 included countries, which corresponds to 5.1% of all incident melanoma cases. National attributable melanoma costs range from € 1570 in Malta to € 11.1 million in Germany and sum up to an amount of € 32.5-€ 33.4 million for all countries.
CONCLUSION: This article provides a first estimation on costs of melanoma in Europe. It illustrates the contribution of exposure to artificial ultraviolet light in the economic burden of malignant melanoma.

Suppa M, Gandini S, Bulliard JL, et al.
Who, why, where: an overview of determinants of sunbed use in Europe.
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019; 33 Suppl 2:6-12 [PubMed] Related Publications
Although exposure to indoor tanning has been established as a clear risk factor for skin cancer, sunbeds are still commonly used in Europe. Understanding the determinants of sunbed use in Europe is key to plan educational interventions, behavioural strategies and legislative measures, which should be tailored to subgroups with different risk profiles. Evidences show that the typical sunbed users in Europe are young-adult women, with intermediate skin type, a current employment and a medium/high socio-economic status. Typical users display sun-seeking behaviours and other risky behaviours such as smoking. Indoor tanning seems more common in northern than southern Europe. However, sunbed use remains common in fair-skinned individuals and among adolescents/pre-adolescents. Commonly reported reasons for sunbed use in Europe include aesthetic motives (i.e. looking attractive), the pursue of a prevacation tan, the influence of peers/parents engaging in the same habit, and the treatment of health conditions. The most commonly reported places to get an artificial tan in Europe are tanning studios and beauty salons. However, sunbeds are also available in sport venues, such as swimming pools and gyms, hotels and private houses. All these factors should be taken into account when planning educational, behavioural and legislative interventions to reduce the popularity of artificial tanning in Europe.

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