Cancer gene mutation more complex than previously thought: study | Reuters

"LONDON | Thu Mar 8, 2012 3:31am IST
 

(Reuters) - Taking a sample or biopsy from just one part of a tumor might not give a full picture of its genetic diversity and may explain why doctors, despite using genetically targeted drugs, are often unable to save patients whose cancer has spread, scientists said.
A study by British researchers found there are more genetic differences than similarities between biopsies taken from separate areas of the same tumor, and yet further gene differences in samples taken from secondary tumors......

Candidate gene association studies: successes and failures

Abstract

"Epidemiologic studies of twins indicate that 20-40% of common tumors such as breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers are inherited. However, the effect of high penetrance tumor susceptibility genes such as APC, BRCA1, BRAC2, MSH1, MLH2 and MSH6 only accounts for a small fraction of these cancers. Low to moderate penetrance tumor susceptibility genes likely account for the large remaining proportion of familial cancer risk...."

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the detection and characterization of liver tumors

"Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has unique advantages over contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the characterization of hepatic tumors."

abstract: Current Update on Borderline Ovarian Neoplasms

CONCLUSION. Borderline tumors are considered to be precursors of low-grade ovarian cancers. Accurate diagnosis and staging facilitate optimal patient management particularly in patients desiring to preserve fertility.