Biomedical subjects

P J Kowalski

Publications and source records attributed to P J Kowalski.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2006

The BeLPT: algorithms and implications.

BACKGROUND: The beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT) is used to identify persons with beryllium sensitization. The variability of laboratory results and lack of a "gold standard" have led to questions about the test's performance. Fortunately, a recently published study has credibly estimated standard epidemiologic parameters for the BeLPT. METHODS: Information from this recent study was used to assess the performance of two common algorithms for BeLPT testing. Standard epidemiologic parameters were determined for two common algorithms and then compared. RESULTS: One of the two algorithms was more sensitive than the other (86% vs. 66%). The specificity of both algorithms (99.8% or greater) was high. At an estimated 2% prevalence, the positive predictive value of both algorithms for beryllium sensitization remained high (90% or higher). CONCLUSIONS: A priori characterization of the testing algorithm under consideration can enhance public health decision-making.

Algorithms↗

PubMed2001

Proliferation index as a prognostic marker in hemangiopericytoma of the head and neck.

BACKGROUND: Hemangiopericytoma (HPC) of the head and neck is a rare neoplasm whose biologic behavior is difficult to predict by means of conventional histologic parameters. METHODS: H & E-stained sections from 12 cases of HPC were reviewed. Proliferation index was assessed using an immunoperoxidase stain for MIB-1 (Ki-67). RESULTS: The study group consisted of 4 adult men, 5 adult women, and 1 infant male. Necrosis, hypercellularity, and pleomorphism were found in 1, 5, and 6 case(s), respectively. The mitotic index per 10 high power fields varied from 0-1 to 15. Proliferation indices using MIB-1 ranged from 2.6% to 52.5%. Clinical follow-up revealed 3 cases with recurrence all possessing proliferation indices of approximately 10%. CONCLUSIONS: Standard histomorphologic features may be inadequate predictors of clinical outcome. A proliferation index of 10% or greater may indicate a more aggressive subset of HPC of the head and neck.

Adult↗