Churg-Strauss syndrome or other disease? Reply. Real Churg-Strauss syndrome! No other disease

(Letter to the Editor

High incidence of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with systemic sclerosis: association with Sicca Syndrome.

To test the incidence of Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection in patients affected by Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) a swift urease test, followed by histologic confirmation for the presence of HP was verified in 35 SSc patients. Serum samples from 46 patients were tested for HP IgG antibodies by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Urease test demonstrated the presence of HP in 23 patients out of 35 (66%); 12 of them were negative to colonization. A Sicca syndrome, with abnormal Schirmer s test and dry mouth was detected in 66% of the patients. 78% of the patients with Sicca syndrome had a concomitant HP infection, compared to 42% of those without the syndrome (p=0,029). Altered peristalsis and reduced salivary clearance usually encourage HP infection. In patients with Systemic Sclerosis we found an enhanced frequency of HP infection

A Multidisciplinary Perspective on the Subcutaneous Administration of Trastuzumab in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

Trastuzumab is the standard treatment in Canada for patients with breast cancer positive for HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2), dramatically improving outcomes in that patient group. However, its current intravenous (IV) administration is associated with long infusion times that place a significant burden on health care resources and patient quality of life. In an effort to provide a faster and easier administration method, a subcutaneous (SC) formulation of trastuzumab has been developed. Data from comparative trials demonstrate that the two formulations are comparable with respect to pharmacokinetics and efficacy. They also have similar safety profiles, with the exception of mild local and administration reactions with the SC formulation. Furthermore, the SC formulation is preferred by patients and health care professionals, and greatly reduces administration and chair time. Additional advantages include easier preparation and dosing, reduced drug wastage, and reduced discomfort at the injection site. By using well-thought-out administration procedures, the SC formulation can be given safely and effectively, potentially reducing the burden on health care resources and improving quality of life for patients