Characterization of salivary gland tumors
Salivary gland tumors are a very heterogeneous group of tumors. The most recent WHO classification recognizes more than 40 different subtypes. These tumors are relatively rare with an incidence of 1-10 cases per 100,000 population. Although most tumors are benign, ca 5% of these tumors recur, posing considerable problems in clinical management. Until now, little is known about the oncogenesis of these tumors, and the characteristics associated with prognosis.
Analysis of saliva from patients with salivary gland tumors
The aim of this research line is to improve classification of salivary gland tumors and to develop markers useful for prognostication.
Collaboration with the department of otorinolaryngology and head and neck surgery
In close collaboration with the department of otorinolaryngology and head and neck surgery we focus on the characterization of (pre)malignant lesions of head and neck tumors. To this aim we develop methods to improve prediction of malignant transformation in (erythro)leukoplakia. In addition we develop molecular markers to predict recurrence in squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck and we develop a genetic profile that predicts the chance of (development of) lymph node metastases in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. We also study the incidence, epidemiology and genetics of HPV related oropharyngeal carcinomas. With respect to the sentinel node concept in head and neck cancer we work on a proof of concept of this concept in H&N squamous cell carcinomas, also after prior treatment of the neck, compared to the strategy of wait-and-FNAC.
Periimplantitis and implant loss after irradiation
In HNSCC patients with postoperative irradiation, 50% of patients fail after oral rehabilitation with peri-implantitis This project aims to investigate the factors that determine this, both at the level of theinflammatory response in the mucosa and at the level of bone metabolism.
Placing dental implants in previously irradiated tissue is a clinical challenge: peri-implantitis and osteoradionecrosis (ORN) are frequently observed, resulting in implant loss in up to 22% of patients. Osteoradionecrosis is a severe complication from radiotherapy resulting in substantial morbidity, in advanced cases, large recontructive surgical procedures are needed to maintain oral function.This study aims to investigate the process of irradiation-induced changes in jaw bone and oral (sub)mucosa on molecular and cellular level. By investigating the pathophysiological processes in the tissues, we hope to discover patterns that can be used to predict future peri-implantitis, implant loss and ORN.
Elisabeth Bloemena MD PhD
- program leader
Isaac van der Waal MD PhD
- academic staff
Heinze Matse - PhD student
2008
H. Vékony, Salivary gland tumors with myoepithelial differentiation: immunoprofiling and genetic analysis . VU, Amsterdam December 10, 2008.
Hier de tekst
Hier de tekst
Hier de tekst
Hier de tekst