The incremental value of dual modality PET/CT imaging over PET imaging alone in advanced colorectal cancer

Background  

¹⁸Fluoro-2-Deoxy Glucose (18 FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) impacts upon the management of recurrent colorectal cancer (CRC) but is limited by anatomical localisation. The development of integrated positron emission and computerised tomography (PET/CT) yields high anatomical resolution combined with the PET data. We evaluate the added value of PET/CT over PET alone.     

The absent kidney in 99Tcm-MAG3 renogram: a dramatic reversible consequence of contrast nephrotoxicity superimposed on renal obstruction

99Tcm-mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) renogram is a robust imaging technique used to delineate upper urinary tract obstruction. The changes observed on the renogram are often reversible on relief of obstruction. We present two cases illustrating the extreme consequence of contrast nephrotoxicity on pre-existing obstructed kidneys. In one case, this led to severe impairment of perfusion and uptake observed on 99Tcm-MAG3 renogram and in the second case virtual non-visualization of the obstructed kidney. Subsequent treatment of obstruction, led to dramatic improvement in renal function. It is important for clinicians, nuclear medicine physicians and radiologists to be aware of the potential of contrast nephrotoxicity in obstructed kidneys.     

The use of herbal and other non-vitamin, non-mineral supplements among pre- and post-menopausal women in Ontario

BACKGROUND: Herbal or other non-vitamin, non-mineral (NVNM) supplements are used by many Canadians, and are of public health significance given potential health effects. The majority of supplement users are women, yet there are limited data on their pattern of use. Ontario women were surveyed about their use of NVNM supplements, including those for women's health, and characteristics associated with use were examined. METHODS: 3,423 randomly selected Ontario households were telephoned to identify eligible women (25-65 years). Of the 1,741 identified, 800 agreed to participate and were mailed a self-administered questionnaire querying NVNM supplement use and health-related characteristics. Prevalence of use, duration, and reasons for use were calculated; distributions of respondent characteristics were tabulated and associations with supplement use were assessed. RESULTS: 478 women (27%) completed questionnaires; 64% reported ever, and 34% reported current use of NVNM supplements. Echinacea was the most frequently used, followed by evening primrose, garlic, and camomile; supplements were used for less than one year. Alleviation of symptoms and prevention of illness were two primary reasons for taking NVNM supplements. 49% reported ever, and 37% reported current use of supplements for women's health, and for reasons similar to other NVNM supplements. High body mass index (> or =30.0 kg/m2) was associated with more supplement use, and visiting a physiotherapist in the past year was associated with less. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest a high level of NVNM supplement use among Ontario women, possibly associated with certain health-related characteristics. This has important public health implications considering possible benefits and/or interactions with conventional medications.