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E Alexsandro da Silva

Publications and source records attributed to E Alexsandro da Silva.

7 recordsLinked to original sources

Regional differences in the extracellular matrix of the human spongy urethra as evidenced by the composition of glycosaminoglycans.

PURPOSE: Despite the concept that the spongy urethra is a unique entity clinical evidence suggests the existence of segmental structural differences. The spongy urethra has a vascular nature, its cells may express different phenotypes and the extracellular matrix that they synthesize should reflect these differences. Glycosaminoglycans are components of the extracellular matrix that have key roles in the normal physiology and pathology of several tissues. Although total collagen content of the urethra was determined, we also analyzed urethral glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fresh, macroscopically normal cadaveric urethral samples were obtained from 15 men who died at a mean age of 25.4 years. The urethra was divided into glanular, penile and bulbar segments, which were then analyzed separately. Total GAG concentration was assessed by hexuronic acid assay and expressed as microg. hexuronic acid per mg. dry tissue, while the proportions of sulfated GAGs were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. Hyaluronan concentration was determined by ion exchange chromatography and total tissue collagen was estimated as hydroxyproline content. RESULTS: Total GAG concentration was heterogeneous along the spongy urethra (p <0.001). Mean values plus or minus standard deviation in the glanular, penile and bulbar segments were 2.53 +/- 0.42, 2.11 +/- 0.47 and 1.47 +/- 0.4 microg./mg., respectively. The most predominant GAG was hyaluronan and its highest mean concentration of 50.1% +/- 3.7% was found in the glanular urethra. The most predominant sulfated GAG in the male urethra was dermatan sulfate, followed by chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate. Total collagen content and the GAG-to-collagen ratio varied along the spongy urethra and were lowest in the bulbar segment. CONCLUSIONS: The extracellular matrix of the human spongy urethra shows regional differences, as evidenced by biochemical analysis of GAG and collagen. This heterogeneity implies functional adaptations in the various segments and may affect the physiology and segmental incidence of urethral diseases.

Adolescent↗

[Large abdominal mass: an unusual clinical form of prostate cancer].

Contribution of one case of prostate cancer presenting with a large abdominal mass associated to anaemia and weight loss. Serum PSA level was greater than 10,000 ng/mL. Imaging studies showed large retroperitoneal mass that led to other differential diagnoses. Biopsy revealed findings suggestive of adenocarcinoma with a distinct immunohistochemical pattern. No metastasis was evidenced in bone scan. Complete hormonal blockade resulted in significant decreased PSA levels and almost complete involution of adenopathies, as well as overall improvement.

Abdominal Neoplasms↗

[A retroperitoneal cellular schwannoma].

We report the case of a 68-year-old woman with a cellular schwannoma in the retroperitoneum, which recurred 16 months after resection. This rare tumor is generally considered as benign in spite of its pseudosarcomatous histologic appearance. Immunohistochemical positivity for S-100 protein is very useful for the diagnosis. Recommended treatment is surgical excision but incomplete resections can be followed by recurrences.

Aged↗

[Acute urologic symptoms associated with uterine myoma].

While prevalence of uterine leiomyoma is high, its presentation affecting the urinary tract is uncommon. We contribute the cases of two adult women with symptoms of nephritic colic and urinary retention. Etiology was acute obstruction of the urinary tract due to previously asymptomatic urine myomas. Management in both patients was surgery, using hysterectomy to resolve the urinary obstruction. A brief review of the literature is included.

Acute Disease↗