Search PubMed⌕ Search

Biomedical subjects

P Van Cangh

Publications and source records attributed to P Van Cangh.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

[The cost of complicated acute urinary retention: a patient chart analysis in Belgium].

OBJECTIVES: Acute Urinary Retention (AUR) is a troublesome event in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia and often results in adenectomy, associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to document the current medical practice and resource utilization in AUR, with Belgium as a case setting. METHODS: In this study, a retrospective patient chart review, the 6-month medical resource use of 63 patients hospitalised in 5 different centres with a first episode of AUR and failing a first attempt to remove the catheter (defined as complicated AUR) was recorded and costs were calculated from the public health care payer's perspective. Only direct medical costs (2002 values) were taken into account. RESULTS: The 6 month cost of complicated AUR was Euro 6,766 (St. Err: Euro 491), whereas the cost of hospitalisation for the acute event was Euro 4,722 (St. Err: Euro 526). The cost of a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) performed during the index hospitalisation is much higher than the cost of a TURP performed during a subsequent--scheduled--hospitalisation (Euro 6,101 vs. Euro 4,237). CONCLUSIONS: The cost of complicated AUR is quite important. Preventing AUR or improving the medical management of AUR may reduce the number of adenectomies that have to be performed, and thus, may reduce mortality, morbidity and health care costs.

Aged↗

Efficacy and tolerability of radiotherapy as treatment for bicalutamide-induced gynaecomastia and breast pain in prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of localised radiotherapy for the treatment of bicalutamide ('Casodex''Casodex' is a trademark of the AstraZeneca group of companies.)-induced gynaecomastia and/or breast pain. METHODS: This open-label, non-comparative, multicentre study included 51 patients receiving bicalutamide 150 mg for the treatment of non-metastatic prostate cancer (T1b-T4, Nx, M0). Patients who developed symptomatic gynaecomastia and/or breast pain received two 6-Gy fractions of external-beam radiation to the breasts and were then assessed at two 3-monthly follow-up visits. RESULTS: 37/51 (72.5%) patients experienced gynaecomastia and 41/51 (80.4%) experienced breast pain, typically within the first 6 months. Twenty seven and 38 patients, respectively, went on to receive breast irradiation. Following radiotherapy, gynaecomastia improved or resolved in 7/27 (25.9%) and 2/27 (7.4%) cases, respectively, and breast pain improved or resolved in 12/38 (31.6%) and 3/38 (7.9%) cases, respectively. No change was observed in 7 patients (25.9%) with gynaecomastia and 12 patients (31.6%) with breast pain, while 9 patients (33.3%) and 8 patients (21.1%), respectively, worsened. Radiotherapy-related adverse events, reported by 18/41 (43.9%) patients, were generally mild and short lived (median duration approximately 5 weeks). CONCLUSIONS: Therapeutic radiotherapy, using two fractions of 6 Gy external-beam radiation to the male breast, improves the intensity of bicalutamide-induced gynaecomastia and/or breast pain in approximately one-third of patients. Adverse events were often mild and short lived.

Adenocarcinoma↗

A retrospective analysis of the results of p(65) + Be neutrontherapy for the treatment of prostate adenocarcinoma at the cyclotron of Louvain-la-Neuve. Part I: Survival and progression-free survival.

PURPOSE: To retrospectively evaluate survival, progression-free survival (PFS) and biological response in a series of patients irradiated with mixed neutron/photon beams for locally advanced prostate cancer in our institution. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three hundred and eight patients were treated between January 1990 and December 1996. Fifty-five of these were recruited for pT3 or pN1 tumors after radical prostatectomy. Neoadjuvant androgen deprivation was given in 106 patients. The treatment protocol consisted of a mixed photon/neutron irradiation in a two-to-three proportion, up to a total equivalent dose of 66 Gy (assuming a clinical RBE value of 2.8). Pre- and post-treatment PSA determinations were available in practically all cases. Study endpoints were overall survival (OAS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to investigate the prognostic value of baseline characteristics on survival and progression-free survival were a progression was defined as local, regional, metastatic or biological progression. Mean age was 69 years (49-86); mean pretreatment PSA was 15 (0.5-330) in all patients and 14 (0.5-160) in those receiving neoadjuvant hormonotherapy; seven patients only had an initial PSA < or = 4 ng/mL; 15% were T1, 46% were T2, 28% were T3 or pT3 and 4% were T4 (7% unspecified); WHO grade of differentiation was I in 38%, II in 38% and III in 14% (5% unspecified). RESULTS: The median follow-up was 2.8 years (0-7.8). Five-year overall survival (OAS) was 79% (95% CI: 71-87%) and 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) was 64% (95% CI: 54-74%) for the entire series. PFS in patients with an initial PSA > or = 20 ng/mL was the same. PFS could be predicted by two optimal Cox regression models, one including histological grade (p = 0.003) and initial PSA (p = 0.0009) as cofactors, the other including histological grade (p = 0.003) and T stage (p = 0.02). The main prognostic factors for overall survival were PSA and age. Biological responses with PSA < 1.5 ng/mL, < 1 ng/mL and < 0.5 ng/mL at any time after treatment were documented in 70%, 61% and 47% of the patients, respectively. CONCLUSION: Five-year OAS was 79%, PFS was 64%, and biological response was 70% for prostate cancer patients treated with mixed photon/neutron beams as applied at Louvain-la-Neuve, which are good results as compared with the literature. The usual prognostic factors were confirmed.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Expression of prostate-specific membrane antigen in transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder: prognostic value?

The expression of Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) mRNA was assessed in the normal bladder urothelium (n = 9), transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) specimens (n = 52), TCC-derived cell lines (n = 3), and preoperative blood samples from TCC patients (n = 27). Specific PSMA mRNA was found in 100% of normal and malignant tissues and two cell lines. PSMA protein was detected in normal (n = 3) and malignant tissues (n = 4). Using a PSMA-specific substrate, PSMA enzymatic activity was found in two bladder cell lines and correlated with immunostaining. Seven of the 27 TCC preoperative blood samples were positive by reverse transcription-PCR. These preliminary results, obtained on a nonrandomized cohort of patients, correlated with tumor invasion (positive RT-PCR: 0% for pT < or = 2 versus 41% for pT > or = 3) and 2-year survival rate (81% in the PSMA-negative group versus 29% in the PSMA-positive group). Although the clinical usefulness of this assay requires confirmation in larger prospective randomized trials, current preliminary results suggest that a blood-borne PSMA mRNA PCR assay may be a useful tool to predict a poor outcome in TCC patients.

Aged↗

Expression of prostate-specific antigen and prostate-specific membrane antigen transcripts in blood cells: implications for the detection of hematogenous prostate cells and standardization.

Circulating prostate cells can be detected in cancer patients by using reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) assay for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSM) mRNA. A quality-control study involving a conventional RT-PCR assay was performed and, surprisingly, detected both transcripts in many negative control cell lines and in normal blood samples. The existence of an illegitimate transcription of the PSA and PSM genes was evidenced by sequence analysis of several PSM and PSA-PCR products. Sequencing indeed demonstrated the presence of a PSA or PSM polymorphism in some but not all the cell lines and patient samples, as well as a heterozygous mutation (G to A; Asp to Asn) in the Jurkat cell line. Moreover, the amount of PSA transcript in MCF-7, a PSA-negative breast line, increased after incubation with cycloheximide. Interestingly, the frequency of positivity was as high as 12% in male samples if only tested once, but dropped to 3% upon multiple testing of the same cDNA. This highlights the stochastic effects in RT-PCR results at high sensitivity, hence the importance of repetitive testing in clinical samples. Decreasing the number of cycles avoided the amplification of illegitimate transcripts but also affected the limit of detection, as evidenced with PSA and PSM cDNA containing plasmids, mixing of LNCap with normal blood samples, and the PSA-PSM-negative K562 cell line. The current data raise the need for a multicentric standardization of the RT-PCR methodology used to amplify PSA and PSM transcripts.

Adult↗

[Complete radical prostatectomy and positive lymph nodes (stages pT1 to 4, N1 to 3, M0, D1)].

Lymph node metastases are rarely detected during radical prostatectomy (55/647 patients in our series or 8.5%) and several authors consider that lymphadenectomy is unnecessary in most cases. Criteria based on clinical stage, PSA and tumor grade have been elaborated in order to avoid pelvic lymph node dissection in a low risk population. It is commonly admitted that patients with clinically localized prostate cancer, a PSA level < 10 ng/ml, and a Gleason score < 7 could be spared a pelvic lymphadenectomy. In our series, these patients account for 12% of positive nodes. The best treatment for prostate cancer patients with a nodal disease is controversial. We compare the evolution of two groups of patients: radical prostatectomy alone or combined with an immediate adjuvant hormonal treatment. We observe a difference between the two groups for biological progression (PSA failure) but not yet for clinical progression nor for survival as our mean follow-up in only 6 years.

Adenocarcinoma↗

[Treatment of hypospadias: 15-year experience].

Numerous hypospadias correction techniques were described in the literature. The technique varies according to the position of the meatus and the importance of the chordee. These new techniques and the care taken in the manipulation of the tissues tend to decrease complications like stenoses and fistulas, frequent in the long urethroplasty. The correction of hypospadias should conform to aesthetic and plastic surgery. More than 300 corrections were carried out in our service. Surgical technique varied in the long run. Currently, we choose as often as possible a correction in one time: release of the chordae and urethroplasty. Straightening of the penis is obtained on one hand by release of the cutaneous chordae and wide dissection of the hypoplastic urethral plate and one or more dorsal plications according to Nesbit are carried out if it proves necessary. In the distal, glandular and coronal forms, the correction is of type M.A.G.P.I. (meatal advancement, glanduloplasty). The complication rate is extremely low. The aesthetic and functional result is very satisfactory. In the proximal forms, Duckett technique is used only in the obligatory cases given the large number of complications. It is generally replaced by Onlay technique. The urethral plate is left in continuity and serves as support to the pedicled and vascularized flap. In the intermediate situations with a middle shaft hypospadias, Mathieu technique is again of application. The aesthetic and functional result of this type of surgery requires good knowledge and careful application of the technique adapted to each case.

Adolescent↗

Expression of MAGE genes in transitional-cell carcinomas of the urinary bladder.

Human genes MAGE-1 and MAGE-3 code for distinct antigens, which are recognized on melanoma cells by autologous cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTL). These antigens may constitute useful targets for anti-cancer immunotherapy, since no expression of MAGE genes has been observed in normal tissues other than testis. Out of 57 samples of primary transitional-cell carcinomas of the bladder, 12 (21%) expressed MAGE-1 and 20 (35%) expressed MAGE-3. All but one of the tumors expressing MAGE-1 also expressed MAGE-3. Genes MAGE-2 and MAGE-4, which are closely related to MAGE-1 and MAGE-3, were expressed by 30% and 33% of the tumors respectively. MAGE expression was more frequent in advanced tumor stages: 61% of the invasive tumors (stage > or = T2) were positive for expression of at least one of the four genes, whereas only 28% of the superficial tumors (stages Ta and T1) expressed these genes.

Antigens, Neoplasm↗

[Epipadiac duplication of the urethra].

Urethral duplication is a less frequent malformation. The Williams classification, which is currently admit, classifies them in sagital, hypospadias or complex and collateral duplications. They can be complete, incomplete or reduced to an incomplete sinus. The most severe cases are often accompanied by multi-abnormality syndromes. Clinical manifestations are various: asymptomatic, urinary infection, incontinence, double urinary stream,... We will report two new cases of incomplete epispadias duplication. The first case presents a purulent flow from the fistula, the second a frank epispadiac status. In both cases, corrective surgical treatment was performed, after a complete balance-sheet. The embryological, diagnostical and therapeutical aspects of the different forms of urethral duplication will be studied based on data from literature.

Child↗

Endocrine profiles during administration of the new non-steroidal anti-androgen Casodex in prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVE: Casodex (Zeneca) is a new potent, long-acting non-steroidal anti-androgen, which produces androgen deprivation by blocking the androgen receptor. We evaluated the endocrine effects of Casodex 150 mg daily given in monotherapy as primary treatment for patients with prostate cancer. DESIGN: As part of a large, multicentre study comparing the therapeutic effects of surgical castration with 150 mg/day Casodex in monotherapy for patients with prostate cancer, a subgroup of 23 patients on Casodex were studied in detail for changes in endocrine parameters. Serum levels of LH, FSH, testosterone, DHT, oestradiol, prolactin, sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone were measured at the start of therapy and after 1, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks. Effects on libido, sexual activity and the appearance of hot flushes, breast pain and gynaecomastia were recorded. RESULTS: Administration of Casodex resulted in a rise in LH levels in all patients with a mean increase after 24 weeks of 102% (P < 0.001). Mean FSH levels showed a limited increase (7%) after 24 weeks, which was significant only after 1 week (P < 0.001). As a result of the high LH levels, total testosterone levels increased after 24 weeks by 66% (P < 0.001), free testosterone by 57% (P < 0.001) and dihydrotestosterone by 24% (P = 0.0112). Parallel to testosterone, oestradiol levels rose by a mean of 66% (P < 0.001). Mean sex hormone binding globulin and prolactin levels rose by respectively 8% (P = NS) and 65% (P < 0.01). Despite an increase in testosterone levels, excellent androgen blockade was obtained, as shown by a decrease in prostate specific antigen levels in 22/23 patients. Libido was maintained in 8/11 patients, and sexual activity in 5/6. No patient complained of hot flushes. However, mild gynaecomastia and/or breast tenderness were seen in 48 and 30% of cases respectively. CONCLUSION: Casodex 150 mg/day monotherapy resembles surgical castration in achieving androgen deprivation, despite an increase in LH and testosterone levels. In contrast to castration, libido and sexual activity are usually maintained and hot flushes are rare. However, mild gynaecomastia and/or breast tenderness were noted in 48 and 30% of patients.

Aged↗

[Varicocele: treatment via percutaneous approach].

The varicocele is benign pathology which sometimes involves disorders of testicular growth. Those can cause a hypofertility. We saw in a retrospective way the 243 patients having been treated by percutaneous embolisation from May 1985 to August 1993. At 150 patients being 1 year at least of postoperative retreat, 70% of cases present a cure, 15% of patients repeated and were taken again surgically. At 8% of patients, the embolisation was not technically possible for reasons of vascular anomalies or spasm of the vein during the procedure. The morbidity of this technique is low, this involves therefore a right choice of the treatment of the varicocele which does not prevent any surgical treatment in the event of repetition or in the event of technical failure.

Adolescent↗

[Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma].

The observation presented is based on one patient 18 years old who presents a paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma stage I. A radical orchidectomy through on inguinal incision with high ligation of the spermatic cord was performed. We have omitted retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. The patient was treated by postoperative chemotherapy with V.A.C. during five weeks. Our patient remains disease free one year post-surgery, but after that, he presents suddenly a symptomatic bone metastasis of the thigh-bone and a massive metastatic pulmonary spreading, without retroperitoneal lymph nodes on the CT-scan. A multidisciplinary approach has considerably improved the prognosis of this tumor. Some reports suggest that routine retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy may be unnecessary for patients with no evidence of nodal involvement on CT-scan. The recent literature insists on problems cause by retroperitoneal lymph node involvement, but our clinical caused must induce us not to underestimate the potential of hematogenous spreading of this tumor.

Adolescent↗

[Immediate allergy to latex in urological practice].

Five cases of acute allergic reaction to latex are reported. Four of those were diagnosed during surgery and presented anaphylactic shock. One was suspected before surgery by systematic screening and dramatic presentation was avoided. Increasing frequency of latex allergy is reported in the literature and is usually seen in patients with extensive neurosurgical or urological histories, or by peoples currently exposed to natural rubber products (medical staff). Systematic screening in history before surgery is important so that exposure to latex should be avoided in suspected cases.

Anaphylaxis↗

[The effects of mepartricin on the symptomatology of prostatic hypertrophy--double-blind controlled trial].

Seventy one patients were treated with mepartricin or placebo in three urological centres for a mean duration of 102 days (extremes: 60 and 142 days). An analysis of the results was carried out for 34 patients in the placebo group and 36 patients in the mepartricin group. The results indicate a significant improvement in both the placebo group and the mepartricin group. The irritative and obstructive symptoms are improved in the active treatment group with a response rate of the order of 70%, compared to approx. 45% in the placebo group. An improvement of the values on the flow meter, though not statistically significant, is observed following treatment with mepartricin, compared to the placebo group. There were no significant differences in the evolution of the prostate gland volume, determined by ultrasound in the placebo group and the active treatment group. Side-effects were minor and only one patient reported epigastric pain.

Aged↗

[Reversal of urinary diversion after radical surgery for rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder].

The authors report a case of reversal of urinary diversion in a 14 year old boy who had presented, three years previously with an embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the base of the bladder. The initial treatment had consisted of preoperative and postoperative chemotherapy combined with radical cystoprostatectomy with urinary diversion via a colonic conduit. The principle of the technique of reversal of urinary diversion are discussed in the light of this unusual case.

Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols↗

[The value of laparoscopy in the diagnostic evaluation of cryptorchism with non-palpable testicles].

From 1986 to 1989, diagnostic laparoscopy was performed in 12 boys, before operation of non-palpable testes. Cryptorchidism was unilateral in all but one case. Preoperative physical examination and ultrasonographic studies of the inguinal region had been performed in all of them and failed to localize the testis. Laparoscopy demonstrated six intra-abdominal testes in five children: five testes were brought down into the scrotum and one was removed because endoscopic diagnosis of complete epididymo-testicular dissociation. Four of the seven other boys were not operated on because of laparoscopic findings. In the last three cases, systematic surgical exploration of the inguinal region was performed and demonstrated total atrophy of the testis. Performed in good condition the procedure is very safe and simple to achieve. It does not increase significantly the duration of the operation and gives objective elements for the operative procedure.

Atrophy↗