This article presents contemporary opinion on the role of alpha-fetoprotein in oncologic diagnostics and treatment. This role stretches far beyond the already known one—that of the biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma. The turn of the 20th and 21st centuries saw a significant increase in knowledge about the fundamental role of AFP in the neoplastic processes, and in the induction of features of malignance and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma. The impact of AFP on the creation of an immunosuppressive environment for the developing tumor was identified, giving rise to attempts at immunotherapy. The paper presents current and prospective therapies using AFP and its derivatives and the gene therapy options. We directed our attention to both the benefits and risks associated with the use of AFP in oncologic therapy.
Twin pregnancy after a kidney transplant is rare and is known to be a high-risk pregnancy. Chances of getting pregnant after a kidney transplant are higher than for patients with renal chronic disease. The most common problems which can occur are: severe hypertension, preeclampsia, abruption of the placenta and fetal growth restriction. We present a case of twin pregnancy after a kidney transplant, on three immunosuppressant medications, complicated by arrhythmia treated by cardioversion, severe fetal growth restriction in twin 2, and preeclampsia. The pregnancy was ended at nearly 28 weeks of gestation due to abruption of the placenta in the normally growing twin. The birth weight was as follows: in twin 1-1200 g and in twin 2-620 g. We present problems during the postnatal period and outcomes at 12 months of life.
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