Distinct expression of perforin and granzyme B in lip and oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Perforin and granzyme B (GB) are the main constituents of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte granules, and they have important roles in preventing the initiation and progression of cancer. METHODS: The aim of this study was to compare the expression of CD8(+) /perforin(+) double-staining and GB(+) cells, by immunohistochemistry, in primary oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC), lip squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), non-dysplastic leukoplakia (LK), dysplastic LK, actinic cheilitis (AC), oral lichen planus (LP) and normal oral mucosa. RESULTS: Our results showed a higher expression of CD8(+) /perforin(+) and GB(+) cells in LSCC when compared with the samples of OCSCC, non-dysplastic and dysplastic LK, AC, oral LP and normal oral mucosa. In addition, increased CD8(+) /perforin(+) and GB(+) cell numbers were observed in all pre-malignant lesions (non-dysplastic LK, dysplastic LK, AC) when compared with the control. CONCLUSIONS: Perforin and GB proteins may contribute to antitumoural immunity, leading to the direct killing of tumour cells; however, it seems to occur more effectively in LSCC than OCSCC.

Immune-Inflammatory Cell Profile and Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa B Ligand/Osteoprotegerin Expression in Persistent Apical Periodontitis after Root Canal Retreatment Failure.

INTRODUCTION: This study assessed the immune-inflammatory profile and the expression of bone resorption activators receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) and inhibitor osteoprotegerin (OPG) in apical periodontitis (n = 20) that persisted after root canal retreatment. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry was used to characterize lymphocyte populations (CD3+, CD45RO+, CD8+, and FoxP3+ cells), macrophages (CD68+), RANKL+ and OPG+ cells in persistent apical periodontitis (PAP) and primary periapical lesions (PPLs). By using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, the mRNA expression of RANKL and OPG in PAP and periodontal ligament from healthy teeth was comparatively analyzed. The data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney, Pearson χ2, and Wilcoxon tests (5% level). RESULTS: PAP showed an elevated number of FoxP3+ cells compared with PPL (P < .001). The number of CD68+ cells was reduced in the PAP samples compared with the PPLs (P < .001). Similar number of other lymphocyte populations was observed in PAP and PPLs (P > .05 for all comparisons). No differences in the RANKL, OPG, and immune-inflammatory cells were demonstrated when comparing PAP microscopically classified as cyst with those classified as granulomas (P > .05 for all comparisons). The assessment of mRNA expression revealed higher levels of RANKL and OPG in PAP compared with the periodontal ligament from healthy teeth (control) samples (P < .001). Also, a greater expression of RANKL in comparison with OPG was observed in PAP (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that PAP consists of biologically active lesions that demonstrate potential of bone resorption (higher expression of RANKL) and is characterized by an immune-inflammatory cell profile that suggests a suppressive and regulatory environment (higher number of FoxP3+ cells and lower number of macrophages) favorable to more chronic clinical behavior.

A qualitative study of the dimensions of patients' perceptions of facial disfigurement after head and neck cancer surgery.

The study aim was to explore the underlying dimensions of patients' perceptions and experiences of facial disfigurement following surgery for cancer treatment, using a qualitative approach based on individual in-depth interviews. Data analysis and interpretation consisted of separating responses into phrases or statements with a single thematic aspect. Subsequently, a number of dimensions and categories were created using a deductive-inductive content analysis. Three main categories emerged: discovering of the cancer, coping with the disease and disfigurement, and reconstructing a new identity. The initial stage elicited feelings of fear, denial, and guilt as a reaction to the stigma and prejudice. Coping strategies included resignation and acceptance, deepening religiosity, reinforcement of familiar cohesion, and creation of a social network of solidarity and support. The final stage comprised incorporation of the altered facial image, rehabilitation possibilities, reconstruction of personality and self-image, and the feeling of having overcome the disease. It was concluded that individual experiences are complex, challenging, and have striking effects on their lives. There is an urgent need for training and improvement in human resources to manage these patients in a multidisciplinary approach, aimed at their reintegration into society and reducing the prejudice and stigma of the disease and disfiguration.

Digit ratio (2D:4D) is associated with gastric cancer.

BACKGROUND: Sex steroid exposure during early human development may influence disease susceptibility. Digit ratio (2D:4D) is a putative marker for prenatal hormone exposure and sensitivity, as well as the action of genes closely related to carcinogenesis. Digit ratio could act as a possible marker for cancer predisposition. AIMS: The aim of this study is to investigate the possible correlations between right hand, left hand and right minus left (R-L) 2D:4D and gastric cancer (GCA) in men and women and assess the correlations with tumor staging and histological diagnosis. METHODS: Digital images of the right and left hand palms of patients diagnosed with GCA (n=57, 42 males, 15 females) and age and sex-matched controls (n=59, 41 males, 18 females) were obtained. Means for 2D:4D were compared. Data were analyzed by repeated-measures one-way ANOVA and Student's t-test for finger measurements and group comparisons and Pearson's and Spearman's tests for correlations with tumor staging (α=0.05). RESULTS: GCA group presented significantly higher left 2D:4D, but significantly lower R-L in comparison to healthy controls, particularly so for males. Digit ratio did not correlate to clinical staging or TNM staging. However, low R-L was significantly related to adenocarcinomas. CONCLUSIONS: Early developmental conditions, including prenatal testosterone seem to play a role on the malignant transformation of gastric lesions. The 2D:4D pattern found for gastric cancer parallels that earlier described for breast cancer. The findings suggest that 2D:4D could add to the list of etiological factors and be a putative marker for the screening of patients' susceptibility to develop gastric cancer.