An autoradiographic study of the intrarenal localisation and retention of cisplatin,iproplatin and paraplatin

Summary The intrarenal localisation of platinum following the intravenous administration of platinum-195m-labelled cisplatin, iproplatin and paraplatin was studied using autoradiography. Following injection of cisplatin, platinum was distributed throughout the kidney even up to 14 days after treatment. In the case of iproplatin and paraplatin rapid platinum clearance was noted from the glomeruli, blood vessels and renal medulla within 2 h of administration. Relative cortical and medullary platinum radionuclide concentrations for all three agents were determined by Chalkley grid analysis. This showed greater relative concentrations of platinum in the cortex at increasing times following iproplatin and paraplatin compared with cisplatin. It is suggested that the lower renal toxicity of iproplatin and paraplatin than of cisplatin may be due to reduced platinum retention within the pars recta.     

Diurnal variations in radiosensitivity of mouse intestine.

Crypts in the mouse small intestine show a diurnal rhythm in radiosensitivity and are most sensitive in the middle of the dark period, when mitotic activity in the crypt is high. Analysis of crypt survival on a cellular basis shows that the changes in cryptogenic cell radiosensitivity are dose-modifying between 1,000 and 1,450 rads gamma rays such that the DO value varies between 85 rads and 140 rads.     

Left ventricular assist devices for the treatment of congestive heart failure

Optional statement The mainstay of heart failure therapy is aggressive medical management with consideration of resynchronization therapy and automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. This is best done with the support of a multidisciplinary team. Transplantation, when possible, remains the therapy of choice for patients who are refractory to medical therapy. Other options short of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) that should be considered include revascularization, mitral valve repair, and left ventricular remodeling procedures. LVAD therapy as a bridge to transplantation should be considered in patients with heart failure who are clinically deteriorating while on the transplant waiting list. This should be initiated prior to the onset of irreversible end-organ damage. In nontransplant candidates, an LVAD can be considered as an alternative to transplantation (destination therapy). However, cost and the availability of expertise continue to limit this therapy to quaternary care and research institutions.