Biomarker research in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) aims for screening/early diagnosis and in predicting its recurrence, metastasis and overall prognosis. This article reviews the current molecular perspectives and diagnosis of oral cancer with proteomics using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) and surface-enhanced laser desorption ionization (SELDI) mass spectrometry (MS). This method shows higher sensitivity, accuracy, reproducibility and ability to handle complex tissues and biological fluid samples. However, the data interpretation tools of contemporary mass spectrometry still warrant further improvement. Based on the data available with laser-based mass spectrometry, biomarkers of OSCC are classified as (i) diagnosis and prognosis, (ii) secretory, (iii) recurrence and metastasis, and (iv) drug targets. Majority of these biomarkers are involved in cell homeostasis and are either physiologic responders or enzymes. Therefore, proteins directly related to tumorigenesis have more diagnostic value. Salivary secretory markers are another group that offers a favourable and easy strategy for non-invasive screening and early diagnosis in oral cancer. Key molecular interrelated pathways in oral carcinogenesis are also intensely researched with software analysis to facilitate targeted drug therapeutics. The review suggested the need for incorporating 'multiple MS or tandem approaches' and focusing on a 'group of biomarkers' instead of single protein entities, for making early diagnosis and treatment for oral cancer a reality.

We conclude that hypothyroidism is common and often under-diagnosed. Therefore routine evaluation of female patients with weight gain, generalized weakness, infertility, depression and mood changes should include thyroid profile.

No abstract

m e d i c a l j o u r n a l a r m e d f o r c e s i n d i a 7 2 ( 2 0 1 6 ) s 4 3 -s 4cations hence the blood transfusion practices should be streamlined and adhered to and reviewed periodically. This retrospective study was undertaken at one of the tertiary care hospital to find out the blood demand and utilization practices among the delivery cases and suggest measures if any to improve the existing practices. Methods:The study was performed over two years; normal standard practice like in any other hospital is being followed. Urgent blood demand is requisitioned whenever there is an emergency like a patient having post partum hemorrhage or abruptio placenta etc. Blood demand forms, blood administration and delivery records were checked and analyzed.Results: 121 cases were given blood transfusion indicating the incidence as 2.67% among total delivery cases, blood transfusion among elective CS cases was 1.58% and 3.84% in emergency cesarean section; 2.82% of vaginal delivery were given blood transfusion for various unforeseen indications. Conclusion:In spite of taking all measures hemorrhage can still occur at times so perilous that it must be managed energetically and promptly. The mode of delivery has some influence on blood transfusion. It is suggested that blood demand could be restricted only to high risk cases both for normal delivery and CS. This will reduce the work load on blood banks and there by improve efficiency. #

A 60-year-old female presented with a 20-year history of progressive dark bluish discoloration of skin and passage of dark colored urine, painful arthritis and a recent history of invasive ductal carcinoma of right breast. Skin biopsy revealed hyaline material which was Periodic-Acid-Schiff stain positive and Congo-red stain negative, urine analysis revealed dark urine with presence reducing substance and radio-imaging showed intervertebral ossification and joint ankyloses. The patient was managed symptomatically with physiotherapy and acetaminophen on as required basis. This image is reported as a classic case of Alkaptonuria with clinical, histopathological and radio-imaging findings and the presence of invasive ductal breast carcinoma in the same patient.