S100A11 is required for efficient plasma membrane repair and survival of invasive cancer cells.

Cell migration and invasion require increased plasma membrane dynamics and ability to navigate through dense stroma, thereby exposing plasma membrane to tremendous physical stress. Yet, it is largely unknown how metastatic cancer cells acquire an ability to cope with such stress. Here we show that S100A11, a calcium-binding protein upregulated in a variety of metastatic cancers, is essential for efficient plasma membrane repair and survival of highly motile cancer cells. Plasma membrane injury-induced entry of calcium into the cell triggers recruitment of S100A11 and Annexin A2 to the site of injury. We show that S100A11 in a complex with Annexin A2 helps reseal the plasma membrane by facilitating polymerization of cortical F-actin and excision of the damaged part of the plasma membrane. These data reveal plasma membrane repair in general and S100A11 and Annexin A2 in particular as new targets for the therapy of metastatic cancers.

Seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection in a prenatal population at high risk for HIV infection.

To determine the seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection in prenatal patients at high risk for HIV infection we tested 513 women from December 1985 through July 1987 at an inner-city hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Demographic and HIV risk information was collected from all seropositive women. Twenty-nine (6%) of the 513 women tested were positive for HIV on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis. Twenty-six (90%) of seropositive women gave a history of intravenous drug use. Two (7%) had sexual partners known to have AIDS or AIDS-related complex (ARC), and one (3%) was Haitian. Seropositive women were at remarkable risk for other sexually transmitted diseases. The majority of pregnancies ended in term births. This serosurvey defines an obstetric population with a high seroprevalence, and has stimulated us to institute routine voluntary antepartum screening for HIV.

Metastatic ocular squamous cell carcinoma in a cat.

Bilateral ocular metastatic squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed in a cat. Ophthalmic signs included bilaterally swollen optic discs, choroidal pallor, and retinal vascular engorgement. A retinal detachment was apparent in the left eye and retinal edema and hemorrhage in the right eye. Systemic signs of progressive visual impairment, ataxia, and weakness were noted. The patient's condition continued to deteriorate despite therapy with systemic antibiotics and corticosteroids, and euthanasia was performed. The diagnosis was made upon histologic examination that revealed metastasis of malignant squamous cells to both globes, the brain, and lungs.

Partial laryngectomy after radiation failure.

Of patients given radiation therapy as primary treatment for limited carcinoma of the larynx, 15-32% will not be cured by this modality. The recurrent tumor and primary site can be encompassed with a partial laryngectomy in a certain number of these individuals. This report reviews the subject of partial laryngectomy after radiation failure and reports experience with 18 patients who had partial laryngectomies to control recurrent or persistent carcinoma after full dose radiation therapy. Four patients had biopsy cures. Local tumor control was achieved by partial laryngectomy in 10 of 14 patients. Three of 4 partial failures were salvaged with total laryngectomy. Major wound complications were noted in 4 patients. Prolonged healing was observed in most patients. Prognosis is probably as good with partial laryngectomy as with total laryngectomy.

Facial nerve function in 100 consecutive parotidectomies.

The risk of facial nerve paresis after parotidectomy is thought to be within acceptable limits, although it is difficult to find published data regarding the specific magnitude of this risk. This study reviews the subject and reports postoperative facial function in 100 consecutive patients who had parotidectomies at the Henry Ford Hospital during a 9-year period. Permanent weakness of a major branch was identified in 2 of 77 patients having lateral lobectomy for parotid disease. Both patients demonstrated marginal mandibular paresis after surgery for adenolymphoma. No weakness was noted in 16 patients undergoing total parotidectomy. No unanticipated nerve disability was noted in 4 patients having partial nerve sacrifice in extended procedures; 3 patients had complete sacrifice of the nerve.