Expression of heat shock protein 105 and 70 in malignant melanoma and benign melanocytic nevi.

BACKGROUND: Heat shock proteins (HSPs) restore immature proteins or denatured proteins, thus protecting cells. Also, the expression of some HSPs is elevated substantially in malignant tumors, but the expression of HSPs in association with melanoma has yet to be studied. Therefore, we examined the expression patterns of HSP 70 and 105 in melanoma, benign melanocytic nevi and normal human skin. METHODS: Two specimens of malignant melanoma, two of benign melanocytic nevi and six of normal human skin were analyzed using Western blot analysis for expression of HSP 70 and 105. In another set, 16 specimens of malignant melanoma, 24 of benign melanocytic nevi and eight of normal human skin were analyzed for the expression of HSP 105 using immunohistochemical studies. RESULTS: The Western blot analysis showed that HSP 70 was overexpressed in all three types. But, the HSP 105 was hardly expressed in normal human skin and benign melanocytic nevi. However, in malignant melanoma, the HSP 105 was overexpressed, and immunohistochemical examination of HSP 105 showed a result similar to that of Western blot analysis. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, HSP 105 is thought to be a more relevant tumor-associated antigen in malignant melanoma than is HSP 70.

A single-stage reconstruction of a complex Achilles wound with modified free composite lateral arm flap.

Composite defect of the posterior aspect of the heel, including the Achilles tendon, usually is very difficult to reconstruct as we face the problems of controlling infection, resurfacing the deficient skin defect, and restoring plantar flexion. With the latest advances in microsurgery, several free composite flaps have been used to reconstruct the defect in the Achilles tendon region to achieve stable and functional soft tissue coverage. We report such a single-stage reconstruction of a complex Achilles wound using the modified neurosensory lateral arm free flap including the triceps tendon strip and the posterior cutaneous nerve. Authors' rolled-up triceps tendon strip method is presented for the one-stage reconstruction of the Achilles tendon and soft tissue defect, providing good contour, strong tension, and protective sensation. The follow-up has proved a satisfactory outcome.