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Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) is a rare subtype of nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It carries a poor prognosis, even among other subtypes of NSCLC. Currently, most treatment strategies for PSC are derived from regimens aimed at managing soft tissue sarcomas or NSCLC. The use of doxorubicin plus ifosfamide and pemetrexed has been well established in the management of soft tissue carcinoma and other nonsmall-cell lung cancers, respectively. We report the case of a 69-year-old male diagnosed with PSC who was managed with doxorubicin plus ifosfamide and pemetrexed therapy. Our patient initially responded to the therapy but had rapid progression and died 8 months after the initiation of treatment. Upon genetic analysis, it was revealed the patient had overexpression of the MDM2 protein, which has been associated with poor response to therapy. This case highlights the need for a personalized treatment approach, as well as the need for a standardized treatment regimen for managing PSC.

The purpose of this paper is to review the most recent literature on non-surgical therapeutic options for chronic pelvic pain in females.Chronic pelvic pain can arise from virtually any organ system in the human body. If a precise etiology is identified, the management of chronic pelvic pain can be tailored accordingly. In some cases, patients with chronic pelvic pain can remain without a specific diagnosis. In these circumstances, adequate symptom control can still be achieved even if no underlying disorder is found. Although chronic pelvic pain is often a difficult disorder to manage, several non-surgical management options exist. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, most patients can achieve adequate symptom relief, usually without the need for surgical intervention.

Objective To conduct a review of current literature to assess whether an association exists between Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium and the development of macular disease, as it is the only oral medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the management of interstitial cystitis. Materials and Methods A systematic review was conducted by the authors separately, with review methods established prior to the conduct of the review. Databases searched included PubMed, Ovid, Medline, EBSCO, and Google Scholar. A search was conducted for the terms “Pentosan Polysulfate Maculopathy,” “Pentosan Polysulfate Retinopathy,” and “Interstitial Cystitis Maculopathy.” All papers reporting on primary data were included. There were no study sponsors. Results A total of 14 papers reporting on primary data were identified. Most papers reported on the development of macular disease in the setting of chronic pentosan polysulfate sodium exposure. No randomized controlled trials have been performed to date and data was insufficient to perform a meta-analysis. Nevertheless, patients with interstitial cystitis were more likely to receive a diagnosis of maculopathy after several years of the medication use. Conclusion Although the nature of the published studies renders them prone to confounders, currently available data suggest an increased risk for developing maculopathy after years of pentosan polysulfate sodium use. In light of this, and the marginal effectiveness of the medication for the average individual, we suggest that education be provided as to the possible association and that regular ophthalmic evaluation be recommended for patients who are continued on chronic Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium.