A molecular analysis of the bacteria present within oral squamous cell carcinoma.

In order to characterize the bacterial microbiota present within oral cancerous lesions, tumorous and non-tumorous mucosal tissue specimens (approx. 1 cm(3)) were harvested from ten oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients at the time of surgery. Any microbial contamination on the surface of the specimens was eliminated by immersion in Betadine and washing with PBS. Bacteria were visualized within sections of the OSCC by performing fluorescent in situ hybridization with the universal oligonucleotide probe, EUB338. DNA was extracted from each aseptically macerated tissue specimen using a commercial kit. This was then used as template for PCR with three sets of primers, targeting the 16S rRNA genes of Spirochaetes, Bacteroidetes and the domain Bacteria. PCR products were differentiated by TA cloning and bacterial species were identified by partial sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene fragments. A total of 70 distinct taxa was detected: 52 different phylotypes isolated from the tumorous tissues, and 37 taxa from within the non-tumorous specimens. Differences between the composition of the microbiotas within the tumorous and non-tumorous mucosae were apparent, possibly indicating selective growth of bacteria within carcinoma tissue. Most taxa isolated from within the tumour tissue represented saccharolytic and aciduric species. Whether the presence of these bacteria within the mucosa has any bearing on the carcinogenic process is a concept worthy of further investigation.

Preoperative cross-matching in major head and neck surgery: a study of a department's current practice and eligibility for electronic cross-matching.

OBJECTIVE: The maximum surgical blood ordering schedule (MSBOS) has reduced but not eliminated the over-ordering and wastage of blood products. Electronic cross-matching (ECM) may be a suitable alternative method to provide blood on demand in eligible cases. The purpose of this study was to assess the department's current blood ordering policy and to identify patients eligible for ECM. STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective observational study of 88 consecutive maxillofacial surgical oncology patients. RESULTS: A total of 383 units of blood were cross-matched, of which 43% were not transfused. Of these, 38% were reallocated and 5% discarded. Of all cross-matched blood, 82% was eligible for ECM; 18% was not eligible, 6% because of the presence of antibodies and 12% because of lack of a second historical sample. CONCLUSIONS: ECM is recommended as a safe method for elective surgery. Blood can be provided on demand, reducing workload and costs for transfusion services and minimizing wastage.