Aim Previous studies have demonstrated that raised preoperative neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is associated with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to assess whether preoperative NLR could predict patients at risk of recurrence of CRC.Method All consecutive patients who underwent surgical resection for CRC over a 2-year period at our institution were analysed. Demographic data including CRC recurrence were prospectively collected from our institutional cancer database. CRC recurrence was diagnosed on radiological and endoscopic histopathological data. Preoperative NLR was calculated on baseline blood results, with a value >5 being a poor prognostic factor. Parametric survival analysis was used to identify risk factors for CRC recurrence. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated for gender, CRC stage using Jass score, preoperative NLR and CRC site. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. (HR 8.69,, P < 0.0001) and NLR >5 (HR 1.81, 95% CI 1.07-3.07, P = 0.028) to be significant and independent risk factors predictive of recurrent CRC. ResultsConclusion These data suggest that preoperative NLR >5 is predictive of CRC recurrence.

There is consistency amongst polyposis registries in documenting the incidence and risk factors for DT development. Having a positive family history for DT is of greater significance than a 3' mutation, suggesting the existence of modifier genes, independent of the APC genotype-phenotype correlation. Few of these risk factors are modifiable. Delaying prophylactic surgery could be appropriate in female patients with a 3' APC mutation and attenuated polyposis.

We report the usefulness of live three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (3DTTE) in the morphological assessment of a left ventricular thrombus. Using live 3DTTE, the thrombus could be easily viewed end-on and from the sides. In addition, by cropping the 3D images sequentially in transverse (horizontal or short axis), longitudinal (vertical or long axis), frontal, and oblique planes, the degree and extent of lysis within the thrombus, which represents an integral part of the clot-resolution process, could be comprehensively assessed. The site of attachment of the thrombus in the left ventricular apex and its morphology could also be fully evaluated in three dimensions by live 3DTTE.

No abstract