Mast cells (MCs) expressing serine proteases; tryptase and chymase, are associated with fibrosis in various diseases. However, little is known about their involvement in oral submucous fibrosis (OSF). Our goal was to evaluate the role of MC tryptase and chymase in the pathogenesis of OSF and its malignant transformation. Immunohistochemical expression of MC tryptase and chymase was evaluated in 20 cases of OSF, 10 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and 10 cases of healthy controls. Subepithelial zone of Stage 1 and 2 while deep zone of Stage 3 and 4 OSF demonstrated increased tryptase positive MCs. OSCC revealed a proportionate increase in tryptase and chymase positive MCs irrespective of areas of distribution. An altered balance in the subepithelial and deep distribution of tryptase and chymase positive MCs play an important role in the pathogenesis of OSF and its malignant transformation.

Our findings do not support previous authors' recommendations that SSRIs must be avoided in NET patients. Several classes of antidepressants appeared safe in NET patients with and without carcinoid syndrome.

Difference-in-difference analysis revealed that for Black, Asian, Hispanic and Native Americans, disparities widened in the wake of PPS though the degree of widening attenuated following ACA. Conclusions: We found a significant racial disparity in the recording of anemia as a complication among ESRD patients. The PPS and ACA policies appear to have driven an increase in recording of anemia but these policies exerted differential impacts on anemia-related racial disparities.

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