Have the authors achieved their LY2606368 solubility dmso objective? The aims set out in the volume Preface (as opposed to the series Preface) are to provide a practical and succinct overview of neuropathological intraoperative consultation

and to recommend a framework for approaching cases. I believe this slim volume achieves these admirable intentions. However, the idea raised in the series Preface that it can be used as a bench top aid in the ‘rushed frozen section situation’ is probably a little less realistic. While the differential diagnosis tables are undoubtedly useful references and the micrographs lend themselves to picture matching, I suspect that the weight of narrative would prove a little frustrating and it is more of a text to be imbibed in preparation, outside the pressured intraoperative scenario. It might also find some difficulty penetrating the market in regions, such as the UK, where

smear preparation is the preferred practice. Highly specialized books with a limited potential sales LBH589 chemical structure volume often have a relatively high price tag and this one is no exception. The retail price of £126 may be a disincentive to individual purchaser. “
“The differential diagnosis of cystic epithelial masses of the sellar region, especially the histopathological differentiation of craniopharyngiomas and Rathke’s cleft cysts, poses a challenge even to experienced diagnosticians. Recently, BRAF V600E mutations have been described as a genetic hallmark of papillary craniopharyngiomas. We investigated a series of 33 Rathke’s cleft cysts to determine the frequency of BRAF V600E mutations and its

suitability as an additional diagnostic marker for the differentiation of cystic lesions of the sellar region. 33 Rathke’s cleft cysts and 18 papillary craniopharyngiomas were analyzed for BRAF mutational status Flavopiridol (Alvocidib) by immunohistochemistry using a monoclonal antibody (VE1) that selectively recognizes the BRAF V600E mutant epitope and additional BRAF pyrosequencing in a subset of samples. 30 of 33 specimens diagnosed as Rathke’s cleft cysts were negative by VE1 immunohistochemistry and pyrosequencing, whereas in three cysts and in all the 18 papillary craniopharyngiomas a BRAF V600E mutation was detected. Clinical and histological reevaluation of the three BRAF V600E mutated cases formerly diagnosed as Rathke’s cleft cysts revealed unusual presentations. Two of them were re-diagnosed as papillary craniopharyngiomas. The patient of the third case had a history of craniopharyngioma operated 14 years before and re-operation showed a cystic epithelial lesion with unclear histology. The determination of BRAF mutational status is recommended in any cystic sellar lesion and can in most cases be provided by VE1 immunohistochemistry even in specimens of low cellularity.