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Evaluation of the prognostic accuracy of Astler-Coller's and Jass' classifications of colorectal cancer.

Aim The study aim was to determine whether the Jass classification is superior to that of Astler-Coller (modification of Dukes’ stage) in determining prognosis of patients treated for colorectal carcinoma. Study Design The authors used Jass’ classification to restage 263 patients who had undergone radical colorectal surgery and classified according to Astler-Coller. Results The results revealed that: 1) Astler-Collers classification enables more accurate selection of patient groups where life expectancy can be predicted; 2) Jass’ classification enables statistically significant (P <0.05) improved prognostic discrimination of Astler-Collers B2 patients, for which the probability of nonrecurrence of the disease is around 60%. Conclusions Although Astler-Collers classification is still valid, Jass’ classification is useful for the prognostic discrimination of Astler-Collers B2 patients.

Radio-hyperthermia for subcutaneous metastasis of hemangiopericytoma of the mediastinum: case report.

Hemangiopericytoma is a rare type of neoplasia originating from the Zimmermann pericytes and can arise in numerous sites. As it is difficult to correlate the histologic aspect with the prognosis, it was considered advisable to take account of other factors such as age and tumoral site. Aggressive surgery followed by irradiation therapy is suggested as the most suitable management. Hyperthermia also was adopted in treating subcutaneous metastasis, but its role has yet to be fully defined.