Chest
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Comparative Study
Diagnostic value of transbronchial needle aspiration by Wang 22-gauge cytology needle in intrathoracic lymphadenopathy.
The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value of transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) performed with a Wang 22-gauge cytology needle in patients with mediastinal and/or hilar adenopathy. ⋯ TBNA performed with a Wang 22-gauge cytology needle is an effective and safe way of obtaining cytologic specimens from intrathoracic lymph nodes and can rapidly provide diagnosis, both in malignant and benign mediastinal diseases. Hopefully, this technique will reduce further need for more invasive surgical procedures.
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Comparative Study
Matrix metalloproteinases activity in COPD associated with wood smoke.
Wood smoke (WS) exposure causes COPD with respiratory alterations that are similar to those described for COPD associated with tobacco smoke (TS). The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of WS on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and expression. ⋯ These findings demonstrate that WS increases MMP activity and expression that might produce lung damage similar to that observed in COPD associated with TS.