Radiofrequency thermocoagulation of lung tumours. Where we are, where we are headed.

Only 25% of all lung cancers are diagnosed in an early stage allowing surgical treatment. Primary tumours usually concerning lung metastasis are breast, colon, kidney, uterus/cervix, prostate, and head and neck tumours. During recent years many publications have confirmed the effectiveness and reliability of lung radiofrequency ablation (RFA) alone or together with other techniques (chemotherapy, radiotherapy...). Results suggest that survival increase and curative rates of lung radiofrequency are similar to those achieved by more aggressive procedures and present lower rates of complications. Pneumothorax, pleural effusion and alveolar haemorrhage are the most frequent complications. Indications for lung RFA must be individually evaluated by lung cancer committees. Percutaneous lung RFA may be useful in patients with pulmonary primary tumours and metastases, especially in those with nodules smaller than 3 cm and a peripheral location (>1 cm from the hilum). PET/CT seems to be the most accurate technique in patient follow up.

[The determination of antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in samples of dried blood on filter paper]. / Determinación de anticuerpos al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana tipo 1 (VIH-1) en muestras de sangre seca en papel de filtro.

The possibility of detecting HIV-1 antibodies by an immunoblotting kit is studied in a panel of 125 known specimens of dried blood spotted on filter paper and their corresponding serum samples. No differences were observed in the patterns of bands with both types of samples or in the sensitivity and specificity, where 100% figures were attained, allowing to conclude that the blood specimen taken on filter paper may be used for the detection of HIV-1 antibodies by the DAVIH-BLOT system and may be kept at 4 degrees C during 30 weeks.