Pheochromocytoma


Book Description

Pheochromocytomas are rare but treacherous catecholamine-producing tumors, which if missed or not properly treated, will almost invariably prove fatal. Prompt diagnosis is, therefore, essential for effective treatment, usually by surgical resection. The manifestations are diverse and the tumor can mimic a variety of conditions, often resulting in either erroneous diagnoses or a delayed diagnosis. Reflecting the recent leaps in understanding this condition, Pheochromocytoma: Diagnosis, Localization, and Treatment provides a comprehensive update on the improvements in the diagnosis, localization, management and treatment of pheochromocytomas – providing you with the latest cutting edge science alongside best clinical practice. Written by the leading names in the field, the text details the significant developments in understanding the genetics and biology of the tumors, coupled with technological advances in the fields of analytical chemistry, genomics, molecular biology and nuclear medicine. The most comprehensive book on pheochromocytoma Provides cutting edge science and clinical guidance Written by the leading names in the field Authors present their recently developed novel biochemical test for the diagnosis of Pheochromocytoma




Innovative Medicine


Book Description

This book is devoted to innovative medicine, comprising the proceedings of the Uehara Memorial Foundation Symposium 2014. It remains extremely rare for the findings of basic research to be developed into clinical applications, and it takes a long time for the process to be achieved. The task of advancing the development of basic research into clinical reality lies with translational science, yet the field seems to struggle to find a way to move forward. To create innovative medical technology, many steps need to be taken: development and analysis of optimal animal models of human diseases, elucidation of genomic and epidemiological data, and establishment of “proof of concept”. There is also considerable demand for progress in drug research, new surgical procedures, and new clinical devices and equipment. While the original research target may be rare diseases, it is also important to apply those findings more broadly to common diseases. The book covers a wide range of topics and is organized into three complementary parts. The first part is basic research for innovative medicine, the second is translational research for innovative medicine, and the third is new technology for innovative medicine. This book helps to understand innovative medicine and to make progress in its realization.




Vestibular Schwannoma


Book Description

Vestibular schwannoma is a rare benign tumor arising from VIII cranial nerve. Its localisation into internal auditory canal and cerebello-pontine angle is the main reason for the relevant clinical implication of such disease. This book develops all the features regarding the vestibular schwannoma, starting from the biology of the tumor, passing to the clinical presentation and instrumental diagnostic pathway to make diagnosis and concluding with therapeutic options linked to several factors regarding tumor size, localisation, symptoms, patient characteristics and outcome. The chapters are divided into 3 sections: pathophysiology, clinical features and treatment. Advancements in microsurgical technique and radiosurgery, coupled with an increased understanding of the natural history of the disease, have made modern management of this tumor considerably more complex and the opinions are still divided between conservatism and definitive cure.The last section includes the rehabilitation after treatment of patients affected by vestibular schwannoma.The contributions to this book were done by several eminent expert authors in their field, and all references are up to date. This is a robust resource for residents, fellows, and early attending physicians, as well as mid- to later-career physicians who care for patients with vestibular schwannoma.




Essential Mathematical Biology


Book Description

This self-contained introduction to the fast-growing field of Mathematical Biology is written for students with a mathematical background. It sets the subject in a historical context and guides the reader towards questions of current research interest. A broad range of topics is covered including: Population dynamics, Infectious diseases, Population genetics and evolution, Dispersal, Molecular and cellular biology, Pattern formation, and Cancer modelling. Particular attention is paid to situations where the simple assumptions of homogenity made in early models break down and the process of mathematical modelling is seen in action.




NF-κB-Related Genetic Diseases


Book Description

This book presents the diverse clinical, cellular and molecular manifestations of NF-KB-related genetic diseases. It shows that studying patient-related pathologies affecting the components of the NF-KB signaling pathway offers the opportunity to understand the various functions of NF-KB in humans, complementing studies performed with mouse models. In addition, people treating those patients acquire a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of the pathophysiological processes.




Neurofibromatosis


Book Description

Here is the state-of-the-art on recognizing, managing and living with neurofibromatosis (NF) for patients, families, and health care professionals. From new genetic and diagnostic advances, to associated cardiovascular and endocrine abnormalities, to the significant psychosocial impact of NF, the book is packed with clear, practical guidance for understanding and living with this disability.Special features: A complete diagnostic guide to help you recognize NF-related symptoms--with a timeline for when they might appear New treatment options for NF, including pain control Coverage of the newly discovered form of NF, schwannomatosis Personal perspectives from NF patients and their families Glossary that defines medical terminology With the great diagnostic and treatment advances achieved in the last decade, and research proceeding rapidly, the future for patients with NF has never been brighter. For all individuals living with the challenges of this disability, the book brings you to the forefront of medical knowledge. Make sure it is within close reach for fast and easy reference.




2-Oxoglutarate-Dependent Oxygenases


Book Description

Since the discovery of the first examples of 2-oxoglutarate-dependent oxygenase-catalysed reactions in the 1960s, a remarkably broad diversity of alternate reactions and substrates has been revealed, and extensive advances have been achieved in our understanding of the structures and catalytic mechanisms. These enzymes are important agrochemical targets and are being pursued as therapeutic targets for a wide range of diseases including cancer and anemia. This book provides a central source of information that summarizes the key features of the essential group of 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases and related enzymes. Given the numerous recent advances and biomedical interest in the field, this book aims to unite the latest research for those already working in the field as well as to provide an introduction for those newly approaching the topic, and for those interested in translating the basic science into medicinal and agricultural benefits. The book begins with four broad chapters that highlight critical aspects, including an overview of possible catalytic reactions, structures and mechanisms. The following seventeen chapters focus on carefully selected topics, each written by leading experts in the area. Readers will find explanations of rapidly evolving research, from the chemistry of isopenicillin N synthase to the oxidation mechanism of 5-methylcytosine in DNA by ten-eleven-translocase oxygenases.







Neurocutaneous Syndromes in Children


Book Description

Neurocutaneous Syndromes unify a group of rare neurological disorders in which the initial identification depends on simple visual disgnosis. They include a large group of neurological disorders which feature cutaneous and ocular lesions, brain malformations, central and peripheral brain tumours, mental retardation, seizures and psychiatric problems. In the last few years, our knowledge of neurocutaneous syndromes has increased substantially. The aim of this volume is to provide an updated developmental perspective on these multifaceted conditions and to review their major clinical features, in particular their embryological basis, clinical molecular genetics, diagnostic protocols and novel therapeutic approaches.




Adult CNS Radiation Oncology


Book Description

This book elucidates the radiation therapy protocols and procedures for the management of adult patients presenting with primary benign and malignant central nervous system tumors. With the development of new treatment strategies and rapid advancement of radiation technology, it is crucial for radiation oncologists to maintain and refine their knowledge and skills. Dedicated exclusively to adult CNS radiation oncology, this textbook explores CNS tumors ranging from the common to the esoteric as well as secondary cancers of metastatic origin. The first half of the book is organized anatomically: tumors of the brain, spinal cord, leptomeninges, optic pathway, ocular choroid, and skull base. The second half covers primary CNS lymphoma, rare CNS tumors, metastatic brain disease, vascular conditions of the CNS, radiation-associated complications, and radiation modalities. Each chapter provides guidance on treatment field design, target delineation, and normal critical structure tolerance constraints in the context of the disease being treated. Learning objectives, case studies, and Maintenance of Certification Self-Assessment Continuing Medical Education-style questions and answers are incorporated throughout the book. This is an ideal guide for radiation oncologists, residents, and fellows, but medical students may also find value in the text.