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Neuropathological study of 3 patients dying from bismuth encephalopathy showed the absence of specific lesions and the probably secondary nature of the abnormalities found. Multiple samples taken from various areas of the brain were used for the purpose of the analysis of the topographical distribution of bismuth. Levels were invariably very high and to toxic agent diffusely distributed. The concentration was nevertheless higher in the grey matter than in the white matter. They hypothesis of a liposoluble compound which would explain the affinity of bismuth for cerebral tissue is probable.

It is impossible to tell the exact prognosis of the patients affected with neuroglial cerebral tumors which are being treated with cytostatic chemotherapy. This impossibility has made it necessary to repeat the different examinations given before and during the treatment of 45 patients. We contemplate a series of clinical, immunological, biological, hematological tests; then electro-encephalogram, brain scan and a echography reveal the variations in volume of the tumor. If some of the examinations are not conclusive, the others, specifically the electro-encephalogram, the mental state evaluation are accurate in determining the final evolution. Immunological shows modification of cellular immunity with a decrease of T cells (57% +/- 5,9) which are hyporeactive (PHA 1/10: 42% +/- 7,5). EEG pertubations and clinical evolution are in agreement in 80% of cases. The median survival of patients as far as EEG signs are concerned in the third month is 375 days if there is an electival improvement and 188 days in the opposite difference which is significant. Scan ications are not conclusive because of peri tumoral edema evolution and hift of medical structures can be shown by echography.