Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) National Cancer Institute, Aviano
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Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)
National Cancer Institute, Aviano
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Via Franco Gallini, 2
33081 Aviano - Italy
Tel. +39 0434 659111
Fax: +39 0434 652182
www.cro.it
General Manager
Piero CAPPELLETTI
Scientific Director
Paolo DE PAOLI
Medical Office Director
Mauro DELENDI
Administrative Director
Franco SINIGOJ
CRO Aviano National Cancer Institute
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 1
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Department of Molecular Oncology and Translational Medicine (DOMERT)
Division of Experimental Oncology 1 Roberta Maestro
Division of Experimental Oncology 2 Alfonso Colombatti
Division of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Giuseppe Toffoli
Core Facility 1 (CF1) on pharmaco-genomics/proteomics and tumor proteomics
(PHAGE-TUPRO) of CBM (Molecular Biomedicine Center)
Department of Medical Oncology Umberto Tirelli
Division of Medical Oncology A Umberto Tirelli
Division of Medical Oncology B Angela Buonadonna
Division of Medical Oncology C Diana Crivellari
Unit of Cancer Bio-Immunotherapy Riccardo Dolcetti
Unit of High-Dose Chemotherapy & Cell Therapy Mariagrazia Michieli
Department of Clinical-Specialty Services & Support
Division of Cardiology Nereo Meneguzzo
Division of Pharmacy Renzo Lazzarini
Division of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Dario Fantin
Unit of Pain Therapy and Palliative Care Roberto Bortolussi
Unit of Psychological-Oncology
Department of Radiation Therapy and Imaging Diagnostics Mauro G. Trovò
Division of Radiation Oncology Mauro G. Trovò
Division of Radiology Luca Balestreri
Division of Medical Physics Elvira Capra
Division of Nuclear Medicine Eugenio Borsatti
Department of Surgical Oncology Francesco De Marchi
Division of Surgical Oncology Francesco De Marchi
Division of Gynecological Oncology Giorgio Giorda
Division of Gastroenterology Renato Cannizzaro
2 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it
Department of Laboratory Diagnostics and Cell Therapy
Division of Blood transfusion, Immunohematology and Clinical Chemistry/Emergency Laboratory Mario Mazzucato
Division of Microbiology, Immunology, and Virology Giancarlo Basaglia
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Division of Clinical and Experimental Oncohematology Valter Gattei
Division of Pathology Antonino Carbone
Unit of Stem Cell Collection and Processing Mario Mazzucato
Unit of Cancer Pathology Agostino Steffan
Breast Cancer Department Andrea Veronesi
Division of Medical Oncology C Andrea Veronesi
Division of Surgical Senology Samuele Massarut
OVERVIEW AND MISSION Health Ministry for the clinical & experimental research and appropriate physical and psychic rehabilitation
functions and shared in the governance by the Friuli support;
The CRO National Cancer Institute (Centro di Riferimento Venezia Giulia region as for patient care. CRO is led by Collecting, processing and disseminating information
Oncologico) was established in 1981 by the regional Franco Sinigoj, General Director since April 2007 and concerning epidemiological data and cancer-causing
government of Friuli Venezia Giulia and began its Dr. Paolo De Paoli, who has been the Center’s Scientific factors with the aim of achieving suitable measures
activities in 1984 as one of 2 regional research institute Director since January 2005. of oncological, environmental, and professional
hospitals in Northeast Italy at the border with Austria to prevention: promoting related healthcare training
the north and Slovenia to the east. Institutional purpose and operation schemes;
It is located in Aviano (PN), in western Friuli within the Planning and carrying out laboratory and clinical Developing activities of theoretical and practical
province of Pordenone. Officially recognized by the research with the aim of improving knowledge on teaching, training and permanent education in
Italian Ministry of Health in 1990, the CRO National the etiology and biology of malignant tumors as well oncology, also in collaboration with Universities and
Cancer Institute works to improve public health by as identifying new means of prevention, diagnosis other national/ international Institutions;
advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding and treatment; Establishing appropriate forms of scientific
specialty medical care to persons, and preparing Providing care and treatment to patients with collaboration in the oncological sector with agencies,
tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health malignant tumors, while identifying specific institutions, Italian and foreign research laboratories,
professionals in the field of oncology. It is a public, non- interdisciplinary therapies in accordance with as well as other international organizations with the
profit institute operating under the authority of the Italian scientific guidelines, also ensuring regular follow-up purpose of implementing coordinated programs;
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 3
Participating in the creation of programs within the population to patient. the course of dedicated research to foster economic
scope of its institutional purposes, indicated by 3 Hematologic neoplasias development and allows the Institute to extend the
National Health policy, and those indicated by the 4 Diagnosis and therapy of solid tumors impact of its research efforts; providing benefit to the
EU Oncology Committee; 5 Tumors associated with infectious agents. From public through useful products and services. Areas of
Promoting and taking suitable initiatives to experimental and clinical laboratory to diagnosis, priority interest are as follows: Oncology, Hepatology,
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
disseminate research results and acquired prognosis, and treatment Cellular Therapy.
knowledge, particularly in Europe.
Clinical research is based on mono- and
INNOVATOR IN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH multidisciplinary therapeutic protocols (conservative
surgery in breast cancer, combined chemotherapy
In fiscal year 2006, CRO medical investigators received and radiotherapy in locally advanced, non small-cell
federal funding by the Ministry of Health and the National lung cancer, interdisciplinary treatment of soft tissue
Institute of Health for specialized research grants; the sarcomas and ovarian tumors). Innovative protocols
Ministry of Education-University & Research, the AIRC concern:
(Italian Association for Cancer Research), LILT (Assoc. Phase I-II studies of new drugs in metastatic tumors;
for Battle Against Cancer), ABO (Assoc. Biomedical immunological therapy in human melanoma and other
Organizations), National Institute for Prevention & tumors; therapeutic schemes specifically designed for
Security, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region and various elderly patients and patients with AIDS.
Foundations all awarded specific research grants.
The Center also received research funding from the Experimental research focuses on gene alterations
European Community ( V & VI Framework Programmes), as well as neoplastic transformation and progression;
the Association for International Cancer Research (UK) mechanisms of cell adhesion and migration; role
and Beneficentia Stiftung Foundation (Liechtenstein). of growth factors and growth factor receptors in
hematological neoplasias; mechanisms of drug
sensitivity and resistance; diet and cancer.
Research Overview
Research at CRO contributes to the advancement of
scientific knowledge, the prevention and treatment of MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH FACILITY
disease, and the strengthening of our economy from & TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
collaborations with private industry. The current research
activity has been reviewed since 2005 by consolidation The Core research facility CF1 : Pharmacogenomics
of Line 1 with Line 2 attesting to a better organized and tumor proteomics is funded by the Consortium
transference activity of the Pre-Clinical & Epidemiological for Biomedical Molecular Medicine (AREA Science
Department (now Department of Molecular Oncology Park, Burlo Garofalo Hospital, Universities of Trieste
& Translational Research). Therefore, clinical and and Udine, SISSA, Bracco Imaging, Eurospital, Italtbs,
experimental activity is now based on five research Diaco Laboratories, Transactiva and others) to provide
lines which are more homogeneous and coherent with facilities and resources for peer-reviewed clinical studies.
the Institute’s objectives, all focused on biomedical Our goal is to play a major role in facilitating innovative
research in oncology. New indicators for the evaluation scientific advances which will impact broadly across
of Departmental research activity in line with policy aspects of human health. Its development will allow it to
directives of the Health Ministry have been adopted. mature into a vital resource for the CRO National Cancer
1 Predisposing events and mechanisms of tumor Institute for quality technology transfer by interacting
growth and progression: from natural history to with other research institutes, industry, governmental
identification of new diagnostic and therapeutic institutions, development agencies, financial agencies
targets and service centers. The research facility has generated
2 Epidemiology and prevention of tumors. From potential deployment of intellectual property arising in
4 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it
CROSS-DISCIPLINARY IN EDUCATION – 6 to 18 MV – and an orthovoltage accelerator are in
operation) and It is renowned for its programs in the
The medical center and research institute is a model medical treatment (intra-arterial chemotherapy, high-
of community-based training and of inter-regional dosage chemotherapy) of the most frequent solid
collaboration in medical education with a full-time staff tumors, including rare neoplasias, and hematological
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
of 170 clinical personnel (physicians, graduates), 489 neoplasias (lymphomas and chronic leukemias).
technical and nursing staff, and 78 support staff (clinical As the region’s designated cancer specialization
& research fellow trainees). treatment hospital, the Medical center also offers
integrated clinical care in Dermatology, Rehabilitation,
Graduate Education Nephrology, Neurology, Opthamology, Orthopedics, and
Several departmental programs have established Pneumology through consultations within Specialized
fellowships where graduate students can conduct Divisions of the Pordenone General Hospital. Our clinics
research training to reflect the cross-disciplinary nature perform an average of 355,000 patient examinations
of training in the sciences present within the Center. per year and publish more than 180 scientific papers
Opportunities include affiliation with such institutions in journals with Impact Factors. Our physicians admit
as the Oncology Specialization Department of the 8,800 patients a year (approximately 50 percent are
University of Udine and a departmental relationship with extra-regional) to the Institute for medium-long term
many other Specialization departments in Medicine. stays and day hospital treatment. Our physicians and
Other conventions are active with Italian Universities in medical department staff provide hospital care in all
Catania, Catanzaro, Ferrara, Modena, Reggio Emilia, aspects of oncology with particular emphasis on
Padova, Parma and Trieste in which various researchers Onco-Hematology, Breast Surgery, Onco-Geriatrics,
of CRO have institutional teaching positions. Pharmacogenetics/genomics and serve youth (14-
The research environment at the CRO National 19 year olds) through a dedicated center in Radiation
Cancer Institute offers graduate students a wealth of Therapy as well as the Youth Area.
opportunities to advance their education. The newest The medical center has the only Breast Cancer
tools in biomedical research are readily available and Department for conservation of physical integrity in
multidisciplinary research is fostered. surgery and therapeutic innovation in the region and is
The medical center and research institute provides a leader in the Regional Cancer Registry serving for the
advanced scientific training to Ph.D. students in implementation of bio-banks(i.e. the European human
biomedical research in a resource-rich, collaborative frozen tumor tissue bank, biological specimen banks
environment dedicated to scientific discovery and for the evaluation of infection in cancer at a European
is planning to develop this mission by constructing a network level, and a virtual network of National oncology
campus open to students worldwide but with particular bio banks).
attention to Eastern Europe in the future.
Qualifying Medical Technologies For
NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FOR PATIENT Diagnosis and Treatment
CARE Endoscopic diagnosis by a video capsule:
disposable, miniature video camera contained in a
capsule for non-invasive visualization of the small
The Medical Center is amongst the 8 research institute
intestine.
hospitals for cancer treatment in Italy and is a magnet
Radiation Oncology treatments include linear
hospital for specialized basic and clinical research in
accelerators dedicated to Intensity Modulated
oncology.
Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and to Intra Operative
The clinical activity under research focuses on oncological
Radiation Therapy (IORT),a full brachytherapy service
surgery, conformal, intra-operative, stereotactic
and an innovative Hi-Art Tomotherapy system.
radiotherapy and IMRT (high-energy accelerators
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 5
Combined PET/CT, scanners producing image Library, Psychology, Pain Therapy, Marrow Transplant, (USA) has been signed, aiming at the education and
fusion; the functional data provided by 18F-FDG and Pediatric Radiotherapy. preparation of students in the field of molecular medicine
increase diagnostic accuracy over conventional and proteomics. Both Institutes are involved in the
PET and CT in a variety of malignancies for more Through its longstanding and close relationship with implementation of programs involving their students,
accurate tumor diagnosis, staging, and treatment various volunteer associations both at the national and faculty, facilities and personnel
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
planning. A whole-body survey is the standard local level, the Center recognizes the importance of
mode of acquisition. patient and family involvement in health-care decision Registers and Biobanks
Expression proteomics and functional proteomics making. Those of national importance are primarily: AIL CRO is the leader of the Regional Cancer Register
are used to identify and characterize proteins (leukemia), ANDOS (breast surgery), ANGOLO (long (Registro Tumori di Popolazione della Regione Friuli
in cancer with the use of the MALDI technique. term cancer survivors), ANLAIDS (battle against AIDS), Venezia Giulia) and participates in the following research
Virtual microscopy and image analysis/quantitative LILT (battle against cancer). projects (two are sponsored by the European Union; one
pathology are used to characterize morphological Many other local level associations provide daily support is sponsored by the Italian Ministry of Health) aiming at
and phenotypic features of neoplastic tissues. and entertainment (theater, music, manual activity labs) the implementation of biobanks:
as well as providing to the needs of patients and their European Human Frozen Tumor Tissue Bank.
The Center’s participation in Alleanza Contro il Cancro families during hospitalization and treatment phases. The goal is to establish a European tissue bank
(ACC), promoted by the Ministry of Health in 2002, is Beginning in 2006, a quarterly publication- “CRO comprising frozen tumor and normal tissue, patients’
fundamental to its networking capacity with other Italian news” has been adopted as a means of divulging free data and virtual microscopy images of the stored
medical centers and research institutes. information to all the Center’s public. tissues to facilitate translational cancer research.
In this way, research transference and collaborative Yearly coordination by a reference person within the Evaluation of the Role of infection in Cancer using
initiatives with other national/international centers so as Center supports a philosophy of providing healthcare Biological Specimen Banks. The goal is the creation
to divulge knowledge in as vast an area as possible are that encourages a spirit of partnership between patients, and the implementation of a network of European
the result of active participation by CRO. families, and medical professionals. bio-banks in order to engage competent cancer
Since 2003, notable work has been done as a part of the specialists in discussion on how to exploit the study
Italian-American agreement for collaborative studies in International Relationships base in the most optimal way for identification and
serum proteomics and phosphoproteomics for breast, CRO is involved in several international research evaluation of whether infections are risk factors for
colorectal, lung, and ovarian tumors. networks and clinical studies within the framework of cancer.
The Center has actively supported these studies by the European Organization for Research and Treatment Virtual Network of a National Oncologic Bio Bank.
transferring material to the National Biobank (Milan) of Cancer (EORTC), the European Organization for The goal is the implementation of software to be
and strongly supporting internal studies on serum Cooperation on Cancer Prevention Studies (ECP), the shared by the 7 Italian National Cancer Institutes
proteomics. Likewise initiatives aimed at personalization European Organization of Cancer Institutes (OECI), and the standardization of collection and storage
of cancer therapy by targeting predictive markers the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), procedures.
to allow precise administration of pharmaceutical the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) and
therapeutics continues as new knowledge in this area the International Breast Cancer Study Group (IBCSG).
becomes available. Additionally, the CRO is involved in the Italian/American
Since January 2007, the Youth Area was created for Program on Oncologic Pharmacogenomics of the
adolescents 14-24 years old to give them a dedicated Istituto Superiore di Sanità sponsored by the American
space (both physical and social) appropriately designed National Institutes of Health.
to assuage their cancer treatment. Diagnostic Of note, the Institute has recently established a
procedures, staging, and therapy are undertaken partnership with Princess Margaret Hospital in
for youth affected by lymphomas and solid tumors: Toronto, Canada to pool both Center’s renowned
musculo-skeletal, cerebral, melanomas, head & neck cancer knowledge and specialized expertise, support
tumors, carcinomas, and rare tumors. innovation in cancer education programs, promote
The Area is not a new ward but a multidisciplinary space E-health initiatives, and create opportunities for joint
derived from the connection and collaboration of three ventures.
Departments : Radiation Therapy & Imaging Diagnostics, Moreover, an agreement between the Institute and
Medical Oncology, Pediatrics and five Units: Scientific The George Mason University - Manassas Virginia
6 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it
lymphomas, soft tissue sarcomas and ovarian
The Scientific Directorate carcinomas) is at the basis of our engagement in the
fight to overcome cancer and mitigate serious chronic
Director illnesses deriving from exposure to relentless and
Paolo DE PAOLI, MD forbidding infectious agents.
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
dirscienti@cro.it Innovative treatment protocols concern: phase I-II
+39 0434 659282 studies of new drugs in advanced cancer; immunological
therapy of human melanomas and other tumors; and
Staff therapeutic regimens specifically designed for elderly
Pierangela BANDIZIOL patients. One of the main research topics of the Center
Monica Elettra GISLON has been portrayed in the program for new diagnostic
Francesca LOLLO and therapeutic strategies in managing HIV infection,
particularly in HIV-related tumors. The development
Editorial Office of such research also covers the study of other
Nancy MICHILIN infections and other infectious agents related to human
carcinogenesis.
Project Design/ Management, Technology Transfer Experimental research is focused on gene alterations
Ermes MESTRONI and neoplastic transformation and progression;
mechanisms of cell adhesion and migration; role
Clinical Trials Office, Andrea VERONESI of growth factors and growth factor receptors in
Eleonora BERTO, data manager hematopoietic malignancies; mechanisms of drug
Daniela QUITADAMO, data manager sensitivity and resistance; diet and cancer.
Antonella SPADA, data manager
Gianna TABARO, data manager INDEPENDENT ETHICS COMMITTEE
Elisa TURCHET, data manager
Annamaria COLUSSI, research nurse The Independent Ethical Committee meets regularly
Ivana SARTOR, research nurse to review an average of 50 new clinical protocols per
year, both non-profit and sponsored by pharmaceutical
companies with a total of 717 new patients enrolled in
the year 2008 (1650 follow up).
INTRODUCTION papers or abstracts of preliminary results presented CLINICAL TRIALS GROUP
at national and international meetings.These research
The clinical-scientific activities of the Centro di efforts have been supported by core grants from
It is a multidisciplinary group (which comprises the
Riferimento Oncologico of Aviano (CRO - National the Ministry of Health, the European Union, and an
Clinical Trials Office-CTO), established in the year 2008
The Scientific Directorate
Cancer Institute) have increased over the years: ordinary unceasing increase in our ability to compete for external
with the adoption of a statute. Its aims are:
hospitalizations, outpatient services, and the number of funding. The transferral of innovations that emerge
• Strategic planning of clinical research
patients enrolled in clinical trials are growing. from laboratory research to clinical practice and have
• Creation of an informatic archive of ongoing studies
The results of laboratory and clinical research are consequences for the persons affected by cancer is
• Increase of the number of CRO-based protocols
extensively published in international scientific journals. foremost in our Institute.
and increase of phase I/II studies
189 full papers were published in 2006 and 194 have • Development by CRO researchers of diagnostic and
been published and in press as of December 2007 Clinical research based upon mono- and
therapeutic molecules
in journals with a total impact factor of 772 and 791, multidisciplinary trials in neoplastic pathologies (limited
surgery in breast cancer, combined chemotherapy and Clinical Trials Office
respectively. In addition, there were approximately 150
radiation therapy in locally advanced non-small-cell Its task is the activation, discussion and submission of
publications in the form of book chapters, conference
lung cancer, inter-disciplinary treatment of malignant clinical trials to the Independent Ethics Committee. After
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 7
approval, the Clinical Trials Office is in charge of the start-
up, data collection, and interpretation of the protocols Claudio Basilico, M.D.
as well as maintaining contacts with sponsors. Professor and Chair,
Department of Microbiology
ALLIANCE AGAINST CANCER New York University School of Medicine, USA
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Alliance Against Cancer is an “excellence network”
Francesco Cavalli, M.D.
promoting and facilitating the exchange of: information,
Scientific Director, Institute of Oncology
knowledge, data, scientific results, and personnel. It
Bellinzona, CH
was created amongst Italian Cancer Institutes and to
Director, Division of Oncology Ospedale San Giovanni
date several research projects have been developed
Bellinzona, CH
within its framework.
President UICC
FUND RAISING AND DONATIONS
Riccardo Dalla-Favera, M.D.
Director, Institute of Cancer Genetics;
Several private donors choose each year to sponsor Percy and Joanne Uris Professor of Clinical Medicine;
our research and clinical activities. In the year 2008 a Professor of Pathology and Genetics & Development
total of € 420.000 have been raised. Any information Columbia University, New York, USA
pertaining to the allocation of funds is available either on
our website (www.cro.it) or by contacting the Scientific
Directorate (+39 0434 659282).
Silvio Garattini, M.D.
THE INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC Director, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research
COMMITTEE Milan, Italy
The Institute provided itself with an International
Scientific Committee, composed of prominent
international scientists and researchers. Mary K. Gospodarowicz, M.D., FRCPC, FRCR (Hon)
The Committee’s mission is: Professor and Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology, Uni-
• Planning and carrying out laboratory and clinical versity of Toronto; Chief, Radiation Medicine Program, Princess
research with the aim of improving knowledge on the Margaret Hospital, Toronto, Ontario
aetiology and the biology of malignant tumours as well
as identifying new means of prevention, diagnosis and
treatment;
The Scientific Directorate
• Developing activities of theoretical and practical Salvatore Siena, M.D.
teaching, training and permanent education in oncology, Head, The Falck Division of Medical Oncology, Niguarda Ca’
also in collaboration with Universities and other national Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
and international Institutions;
• Establishing appropriate forms of scientific
collaboration in the oncological sector with bodies,
institutions, Italian and foreign research laboratories, as Vittorio Silano, Ph.D.
well as other international bodies with the purpose of National institute for the promotion of migrants’ health and the
implementing co-ordinated programmes. control of poverty-related diseases, Rome, Italy
8 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it
The Scientific Directorate
Scientific Library
Head, Library
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Ivana TRUCCOLO
itruccolo@cro.it
+39 0434 659248
Staff
Assistant Librarian
Laura CIOLFI info@cro.it
Andrea PARRO art@cro.it
Orietta TURRIN (part time)
Fellows
Nancy MICHILIN nmichilin@cro.it
Elena GIACOMELLO
Michela FLORIO
Patients’ Library
people@cro.it
The CRO Scientific Library is a Unit of the Scientific of the scientific production of the Institute’s staff (i.e.
Directorate of the Institute http://www.cro.sanita.fvg. articles/Impact Factor, one of the key factors determining
it/biblioteca/set_bibliotecascientifica.htm, specialized the financing of research)
in oncology and related fields. Standards are respected in the implementation of
The CRO National Cancer Institute is provided with a Online Public Access Catalogue of books via SBN, the
small-medium sized library: Italian National Bibliographic Service http://sol.units.
Staff: 3 full time employees, 2 of them professionals, it/SebinaOpac/Opac?sysb=cro, Document Delivery,
3 persons granted for an equal number of specific Grey Literature Archive http://www.cro.sanita.fvg.it/
The Scientific Directorate
current projects biblioteca/txt_archPub.htm an archive of educational
Publication figures: the library holds approximately materials accessible online, CRO authors’ publications
3,500 periodicals both in print and online but about Archive, Library webpage, the newly activated library
6,000 currently accessible; 9,000 books devoted to BLOG
Scientific Library
both the scientific and non-scientific communities; Many current collaborations with eminent
approximately 15 different current databases; a budget Institutions
of 280.000,00€ (2006)
Services: Document Delivery – approximately 2,000 Some features of the CRO library
articles sent and 1,200 requested; many educational A special section for patients called “Biblioteca per
activities, either CME-oriented or not; management i pazienti” (Patients’ Library): initiated in 1998 as a pilot
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 9
project in Italy within this field. This service is intended SELECTED PUBLICATIONS
for patients, relatives and citizens. The focus is on 3
main fundamentals: • Truccolo Ivana, Bianchet Katia, Capello Fabia,
• dedicated space Russell-Edu William, Dal Maso Luigino, Colombatti
• adequate material with attention to communicative Alfonso, Ciolfi Laura, Tirelli Umberto, De Paoli Paolo.
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
style and quality content A pilot project of a cancer patient library in Italy: results
• expert counseling of a customer-satisfaction survey and its products.
The Patients’ Library is extensively involved in specific Health Info Libr J 2006, 23 (4): 266-274
new projects such as:
• the Youth Area, • Bianchet, Katia, Truccolo, Ivana, and De Paoli,
• the Drug Information Service for citizens, Paolo. Health? A question of ...mass media. Cancer
• Exchanges with students raising awareness of Librarians Section News 2007, Newsletter (42): 3-5
cancer-related problems and quality evaluation of the
online health related information, • Truccolo I., Bianchet K., Dal Maso L., Cognetti G.,
• Publications representing patients’ expressions: De Paoli P. Knowledge and use of Internet as a health
thoughts, history, and drawings, education tool by Italian high school students. JEAHIL
• Socio-cultural events devoted to the community in 2009, 5 (2): 13-18
collaboration with the local public libraries.
A deep involvement, as co-coordinator, in an
Italian multicentric collaborative project with Research
Institutes for divulging information to cancer patients is
in progress.
Many participations in collaborative projects, e.g.
since 1987 in the “GIDIF RBM collective catalogue and
Document Delivery”; in the BIBLIOSAN project, http://
www.bibliosan.it/; in the Open Access Institutional
Repository of biomedical literature authored by Italian
researchers, lead by Istituto Superiore di Sanità http://
dspace.iss.it/dspace/handle/2198/24
A “natural” disposition to surveys and statistics
concerning the services offered. This activity is included
in a quality assurance program based on self-evaluation.
The Scientific Directorate
As an example: A pilot project of Cancer Patient Library
in Italy: the results of a customer satisfaction survey and
The Scientific Library
its products, Health Information and Libraries Journal
2006, 23:266-274 accessible on http://eprints.rclis.
org/archive/00008531/
10 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.itcancer) on the aetiology of cancer; and (b) establishing
The Scientific Directorate a bio-bank of biological samples (e.g.,tumour biopsies,
Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics blood, and urine) for the identification of parameters
related to tumor development (e.g., genetic susceptibility
or polymorphisms).
Division Director
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Diego SERRAINO, MD The impact of lifestyle on survival of cancer
serrainod@cro.it patients:
Through a “record-linkage” approach, data derived
Staff from analytical epidemiology studies (e.g., case-control)
Ettore BIDOLI, ScD bidolie@cro.it on cancer aetiology are cross-matched with information
Luigino DAL MASO, ScD dalmaso@cro.it from several computerized databanks (registry offices,
Jerry POLESEL, ScD polesel@cro.it cancer registries, and healthcare/hospital discharge
Ornella FORGIARIN, Cancer Registry databases).
Biologist These databases offer the opportunity of: (a) estimating
survival in cancer patients (cases); (b) assessing the
Unit Director impact of various factors (with regard to exposure and
Renato TALAMINI, ScD, Head of the lifestyle) on survival and, possibly, on the development
Clinical Epidemiology & Assessment Unit of neoplasm in controls.
talaminir@cro.it
Infectious agents and cancer:
Research Fellows Approximately 15% of all cancers are associated with
Mauro LISE, ScD lisemauro@cro.it viral infections, and these cancers are particularly
common in persons with deficits of the immune
Antonella ZUCCHETTO, ScD
system – like HIV-infected people or persons who have
zucchetto.epi@cro.it
undergone organ transplant.
Angela DE PAOLI, ScD The relationship between chronic infections and the
development of cancer is investigated through different
Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
approaches: (a) the implementation of epidemiological
methods; (b) the assessment of the spread of
MISSION RESEARCH ACTIVITY-PROJECTS LIST infections,or potential oncogenes, in the population;
(c) the evaluation of epidemiological aspects of tumors
The mission of the Epidemiology and Biostatistics The Division focuses its research activity on five main that occur with high frequency in people who have
Division is the prevention of human cancer through the fields to gain an understanding of the biochemical and undergone organ transplant.
elucidation of its distribution and causes. genetic mechanisms underlying tumor development in
The Scientific Directorate
Since 1984, the Epidemiology and Biostatistics Division supporting statistical methodology, study design, as Registration and description of cancer
has been conducting analytical (e.g., case-control well as the clinical response and survival of patients: distribution in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region:
and cohort studies) and descriptive (e.g., analyses of Since 1998, all the resident population in the Friuli Venezia
incidence and mortality data) research. Analytical epidemiology studies: Giulia region is under surveillance for the occurrence of
The Division’s investigation activity is conducted in These investigations concern the relationship between cancer cases.The population-based Cancer Registry
collaboration with research groups from national and cancer and lifestyle, environmental exposure, and was established to guarantee a complete and accurate
international institutions, deepening the understanding genetic susceptibility which are conducted in different informative source with regard to all cases of cancer
of cancer epidemiology and producing results with Italian areas. Their objectives are: (a) evaluating the that are diagnosed in the region.
wide-ranging applications in oncology and statistics. impact of different lifestyle factors (i.e., physical activity, The high qualitative standards -recognized at the
obesity, occupational exposure, a family history of national and international levels- offer a unique tool
for understanding cancer distribution and its causes
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 11in order to implement appropriate preventive actions Top 3 cancer sites
and the management of cancer diagnosis, therapy, and National and Friuli Venezia Giulia Region
care. Within this framework and in collaboration with the Female: Breast, Colorectal, Leukemia-Lymphoma-Myeloma
Regional Health Agency, a specific area is addressed Male: Prostate, Lung, Colorectal
to the evaluation of primary and secondary prevention % most frequent tumors, excl.skin ,(site and sex incidence)
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
programs in oncology.
Clinical and epidemiological assessment
studies:
They address the relationship between prognostic
factors and cancer survival. This field of research
supports a multidisciplinary action aimed at integrating
the scientific activity of several professional figures, both
within the Institute and in other research Institutes.
Particularly significant objectives are supporting
statistical methodology and data analysis for study
design, as well as studying the clinical response and
survival of patients with cancer.
Italian Cancer Registries pool , (site and sex incidence)
Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Epidemiological Studies
The Scientific Directorate
12 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.itSELECTED PUBLICATIONS J., Lise M. Effect of obesity and other lifestyle factors
on mortality in women with breast cancer. Int J Cancer
• Riva E, Serraino D, Pierangeli A, Bambacioni F, 2008, 123 (9): 2188-2194
Zaniratti S, Minosse C, Selleri M, Bucci M, Scagnolari
C, Degener AM, Capobianchi MR, Antonelli G, Dianzani • Polesel J., Clifford G. M., Rickenbach M., Dal Maso
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
F; the Human Papillomavirus Study Group.Markers of L., Battegay M., Bouchardy C., Furrer H., Hasse B.,
human papillomavirus infection and their correlation Levi F., Probst-Hensch N. M., Schmid P., Franceschi
with cervical dysplasia in human immunodeficiency S. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma incidence in the Swiss HIV
virus-positive women. Clin Microbiol Infect 2007; 13(1): Cohort Study before and after highly active antiretroviral
94-7. therapy. AIDS 2008, 22 (2): 301-306
• Serraino D, Piselli P, Busnach G, Burra P, Citterio F, • Zucchetto A., Talamini R., Dal Maso L., Negri E.,
Arbustini E, Baccarani U, De Juli E, Pozzetto U, Bellelli Polesel J., Ramazzotti V., Montella M., Canzonieri V.,
S, Polesel J, Pradier C, Maso LD, Angeletti C, Carrieri Serraino D., La Vecchia C., Franceschi S. Reproductive,
MP, Rezza G, Franceschi S; for the Immunosuppression menstrual, and other hormone-related factors and risk
and Cancer Study Group. Risk of cancer following of renal cell cancer. Int J Cancer 2008, 123 (9): 2213-
immunosuppression in organ transplant recipients and 2216
in HIV positive individuals in southern Europe. Eur J
Cancer 2007; 43(14): 2117--23. • Dal Maso L., Polesel J., Serraino D., Lise M., Piselli
P., Falcini F., Russo A., Intrieri T., Vercelli M., Zambon
• Polesel J, Talamini R, Montella M, Maso LD, Crovato P., Tagliabue G., Zanetti R., Federico M., Limina R. M.,
M, Parpinel M, Izzo F, Tommasi LG, Serraino D, Vecchia Mangone L., De Lisi V., Stracci F., Ferretti S., Piffer S.,
CL, Franceschi S. Nutrients intake and the risk of Budroni M., Donato A., Giacomin A., Bellu F., Fusco
hepatocellular carcinoma in Italy. Eur J Cancer 2007; M., Madeddu A., Vitarelli S., Tessandori R., Tumino
43, 2381-2387. R., Suligoi B., Franceschi S. Pattern of cancer risk
in persons with AIDS in Italy in the HAART era. Brit J
• Bosetti C, Rossi M, McLaughlin JK, Negri E, Talamini Cancer 2009, 100 (5): 840-847 (Br J Cancer)
R, Lagiou P, Montella M, Ramazzotti V, Franceschi S,
Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
LaVecchia C. Flavonoids and the risk of renal cell cancer.
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16:98-101.
• Galeone C, Pelucchi C, Talamini R, Negri E, Montella
M, Ramazzotti V, Zucchetto A, Maso LD, Franceschi S,
La Vecchia C. Fibre intake and renal cell carcinoma: A
case-control study from Italy. Int J Cancer 2007; 121
The Scientific Directorate
(8):1869-72.
• Talamini R, Polesel J, Spina M, Chimienti E, Serraino
D, Zuccheto A, Zanet E, Franceschi S, and Tirelli U. The
Impact of tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking on
survival of patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Int J
Cancer 2007; 122: 1624-29.
• Dal Maso L., Zucchetto A., Talamini R., Serraino D.,
Stocco C. F., Vercelli M., Falcini F., Franceschi S., [as
member of PACE Working Group], Bidoli E., Polesel
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 13The Medical Office
Director
Mauro DELENDI, MD
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
dirsan@cro.it
+39 0434 659507
Staff
Nurse Coordinators
Roberto BIANCAT, ND
Nicoletta SUTER, ND
Unit for Development &
Coordination of the Nursing
Profession
INTRODUCTION EDUCATION AND TRAINING DIVISION
Within the Institute, the mission of the chief Medical The mission of the Education and Training Office is
Officer is to provide the best health organization and to offer a thorough integration of the most advanced
supervise all clinical units for their medical duties. research with the best clinical practices in order to
A close interaction with the Scientific Director and the appropriately respond to the health needs of the
Administration as well as an internal organization in patients. These functions are undertaken by applying
several subunits make it easier to maintain the multiple a quality management system that also certifies the
functions of this unit under close control: appropriateness and efficacy of formative events.
1) secretariat; Simultaneous record keeping, of strengths and
2) patients’ records archive; weaknesses, by means of appropriate indicators
3) health surveillance; guarantee continuous improvement in the education
4) monitoring office; and training activities offered.
5) hygiene office; The Office, with a staff composed of a Nursing
The Medical Office
6) nursing office. Coordinator, two part-time nurses, a secretary and a
psychologist fellow employed part-time, is part of the
The Chief Medical Officer supervises and coordinates Medical Office Structure and acts in conjunction with
several working groups on various health-related matters the Scientific Directorate.
as well as the Public Relation office, the prevention
office, and the quality accreditation office. Educational goals
favoring the formation of highly qualified and
motivated professionals;
14 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it improving knowledge and competence of cancer internships. CLINICAL ACTIVITY
research; Training is also provided for Medical Doctors during their
involving all personnel in the attainment of the Oncology, Surgery, and Radiotherapy specialty courses.
Beds 150
Institute’s goals and improving organization; An active program of scientific seminars, scientific
promoting and empowering all professional staff conferences for basic education and ones specific to Ordinary admissions 2,707
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
members by providing adequate information; oncological fields have been organized in strict relation Day Hospital admissions 2,426
stimulating an open discussion among the different with the Scientific Directorate’s programs. Several
professionals and optimizing the translation of clinical theses in disciplines as diverse as Medicine, Biology,
research into clinical practice through promotion and Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Psychology and Nursing
development of regional, national, and European for different University degrees as well as Nursing
initiatives; Managerial Master programs have been coordinated in
disseminating educational materials from lectures the quality of chairman and co-chairman.
through institutional grey literature intranet/internet
archives to allow participant access and detailed Internships for high school students
study; Since the early nineties, the Institute is involved in
providing tutorship for personal education and summer programs and internships for high school
training by emphasizing human resource importance students with up to 20 students per year attending the
and value laboratories for a limited period of time.
The Education and Training Office is continuously ACCREDITATION CANADA PROGRAM
analyzing the training and educational as well as the
organizational needs at the National Cancer Institute The Institute has started the Accreditation Canada
in Aviano; providing systematic training and education program. Accreditation Canada is a not-for-profit,
for personnel in order to comply with the obligations independent organization accredited by the International
of the national and regional Continuous Medical Society for Quality in Healthcare (ISQua). it provides
Education(CME) framework. national and international health care organizations
In 2006 the Office provided about 15,670 credits to with an external peer review process to assess and
1,615 people and in 2007 approximately 475 hours of improve the services they provide to their patients and
CME education were reached in the first semester. clients based on standards of excellence. Accreditation
The Institute’s CME Provider has proposed a large Canada’s programs and guidance have helped
number of accredited events: they have attracted the organizations promote quality health care for over 50
interest and adhesion of internal staff members and years.
external participants. The Office has taken care of the
collection and registration of CME educational credits
acquired by the employees through participation in
internal and external events although some events have
been accredited from other providers. In June 2007, the
Office was accredited according to the ISO 9001:2000
The Medical Office
for its educational and training activity.
University Degrees
The Institute is part of the training program for nurses,
medical technicians, radiology technicians,
and prevention technicians in collaboration with the
Universities of Udine and Trieste. In particular, up to 83
tutors are dedicated to supporting students during their
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 15The Administrative Directorate
Director
Mr. Franco SINIGOJ
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
croaviano@cro.it
direttoreamministrativo@cro.it
+39 0434 659216
Administrative Group, Division
of Scientific Research & Project
Administration
Mr. Franco SINIGOJ,
Director
Purchasing, Contracts, Business Human Resources Technologies and Capital Equipment
Management Division (Personnel Policies) Division Division
Purchasing, Contracts, Business Management Director Director
The Administrative Directorate
Division Mr. Ermes GREATTI, Eng.
Director, Mr. Franco SINIGOJ Mr. Franco SINIGOJ egreatti@cro.it
direttoreamministrativo@cro.it Legal Entity Area
Personnel Accounting Area Supplies and Software Commodities Unit
General & Legal Affairs Office Technologies Unit
Mr. Alessandro FALDON, Senior Manager, Information Systems/Informatics Unit
Attorney
Purchasing & Finance Office
Mrs. Raffaella CATTARUZZA, Senior Manager
Business Management Office
16 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.itMISSION AND ADMINISTRATIVE the routine administration of the Information
ACTIVITIES OF THE UNITS Systems/Informatics Unit and the management of a
local area network as well as customer support.
The Purchasing, Contracts and Business Management
Division is composed of the following Offices to provide The Personnel Policies Division guarantees the adequate
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
administrative staff an opportunity in the development of completion of selection procedures for employment of
CRO-National Cancer Institute administrative processes personnel (including fellowship administration) as well
and to support the activities of the General Director as as pension planning, assistance, and contributions for
well as certain functions of the Scientific Director: career management; the hiring of full-time personnel
General & Legal Affairs as well as the assignment of fellowships and personnel
Purchasing & Finance hired on a contractual basis.
Business Management Additional activities include Labor union representation/
Treasury relations, application of professional work contracts,
and development of regulations for the independent
The above-mentioned Division guarantees the creation medical activity of physicians.
of annual program schemes in adherence with regional
guidelines and those of the Italian Health Ministry, a PERSONNEL
provisional budget and monitoring of expenses; the
informational and business management of specialized Graduates 170
research administration financing in collaboration with Nurses and Health Technicians 489
the Scientific Directorate, as well as its budgetary Other 78
monitoring/accounting. Other operational duties
Total 737
include:
Formal accounting management
Periodic quarterly and annual budget planning and
monitoring THE CAMPUS PROJECT
Operational, general and analytical accounting and
fiscal management In the year 2008 the Regional government approved
All activities related to stipulation of official deeds the “Campus” project, a building completed devoted to
Management of an internal protocol and archive of host Italian and foreign researchers.
deeds/documents
Corporate alliances through conventions /
agreements with other institutions
The Administrative Directorate
Procedures for contractual agreements with
personnel such as experts, consultants, etc.
Systematic registration of all examinations and in-
patients
Acting as an institutional secretariat for internal
boards/committees
The Technologies and Capital Equipment Division
manages:
The purchase of all institutional commodities related
to the Institute’s objectives including scientific
medical equipment, advanced technologies, and
capital equipment investments.
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 17Department of Medical Oncology
Faculty & Staff
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Umberto TIRELLI, MD
Department Director, Division Director
Principal Investigator, Medical Oncology A
Sergio FRUSTACI, MD
Division Director, Medical Oncology B
Gastrointestinal Tumors, Sarcomas and Rare
Tumors
Andrea VERONESI, MD
Division Director, Medical Oncology C
Riccardo DOLCETTI, MD
Unit Director
Cancer Bio-immunotherapy
Mariagrazia MICHIELI, MD
Unit Director
Cell Therapy and High-Dose Chemotherapy
The Department of Medical Oncology is composed of The Department staff uses a disease management
the following 3 Divisions and 2 Units: Medical Oncology team approach and participates in clinical and
A, Medical Oncology B, Medical Oncology C. In addition, translational research projects in an integrated fashion.
the Department includes Units dedicated to Malignant Concerning new lines of research, besides the elderly,
Lymphomas, Head & Neck Cancer Treatment, Cell there are Ministry of Health projects dedicated to
Department of Medical Oncology
Therapy and High-Dose Chemotherapy, Cancer Bio- long term survivors and cancer-free persons, within a
Immunotherapy, and Infectious Diseases. specialized clinic supervised by Dr. Simonelli. Costs of
chemotherapy regimens and issues related to cancer
For years the Department has been at the forefront of and the environment will be other areas of interest in our
activity within the Centro di Riferimento Oncologico, both research endeavor. Our relationship with the volunteer
for quality of care and clinical research. The Divisions organizations: Angolo, FLAI, FAVO and AIMAC will
and Units share in-patient wards and out-patient clinical continue in close collaboration.
staff, including a large part of care for specific domains Research publications, both for quality and number,
of tailored treatment such as for transplants, AIDS, remain high and are the first in order as compared to
elderly, and lymphomas among others and research other Departments. Opportune leadership, environment,
covering breast, lymphomas, eldery, and patients resources and necessary infrastructure for medical
having infectious diseases as well as tumors. investigators, their staff, and medical students to conduct
medical research while providing attentive primary care
are guaranteed by the Department’s Director.
18 Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.itDepartment of Medical Oncology
Division of Medical Oncology A
Umberto TIRELLI, MD
CENTRO DI RIFERIMENTO ONCOLOGICO (CRO) - NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE - AVIANO
Principal Investigator & Department Director
Phone +39 0434 659284
Fax +39 0434 659531
utirelli@cro.it
Associate Directors
Emanuela VACCHER, MD evaccher@cro.it
Michele SPINA, MD mspina@cro.it
Staff PROJECTS LIST- RESEARCH ACTIVITY
Alessandra BEARZ, MD abearz@cro.it
Massimiliano BERRETTA, MD mberretta@cro.it During 2006 the Division of Medical Oncology A has
Emanuela CHIMIENTI, MD echimienti@cro.it resolutely pursued the following issues:
Lucia FRATINO, MD lfratino@cro.it
1. Lymphomas, in particular in elderly patients, and
Ferdinando MARTELLOTTA, MD fmartellotta@cro.it
those with HIV and HCV infections;
Sandra SANTAROSSA, MD ssantarossa@cro.it 2. Studies on bone marrow transplantation, feasibility
Ornella SCHIOPPA, MD oschioppa@cro.it and activity in lymphoma patients specifically the elderly
Simon SPAZZAPAN, MD sspazzapan@cro.it and patients with virus-associated lymphomas;
3. Studies on chemotherapy-induced immunological
Fellows & Other Personnel damage, mainly in the elderly and patients submitted to
Arben LLESHI, Research fellow high-dose chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant;
Annalisa GIACALONE, Research fellow 4. Etiopathogenic-based treatments of HIV and non-
Paola NIGRI, Research fellow HIV related Kaposi’s sarcoma;
Ernesto ZANET, Research fellow 5. Feasibility, toxicity and long-term follow-up of
chemotherapy association with antiretroviral therapy;
Department of Medical Oncology
6. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic interaction
Division of Medical Oncology A
between protease inhibitors and cytotoxic agents;
associated malignancies, chronic fatigue syndrome and
MISSION AND CLINICAL ACTIVITY 7. Studies of biological drugs in lung cancer, focusing
cancer-related fatigue. Cancer survivors and related
in particular on elderly patients;
psychological, biological and clinical problems will be
The Division’s mission is to provide the best treatment 8. Studies of solid tumor treatments, with specific
assiduously reviewed in a dedicated clinic. Tumors
available for a number of oncological diseases to include attention to gastrointestinal tumors and lung cancer, as
potentially related to the environment and work activities
hematological malignancies, head and neck tumors and well as to patients with HIV infection;
constitute other activities of interest for our medical
esophageal cancer, genito-urinary tract tumors, lung 9. Studies of dedicated treatments for the care of
staff. The Division’s interaction with the Bone Marrow
tumors, HIV infection and HIV-associated malignancies, elderly patients older than 70 years
Transplantation Unit provides necessary support
chronic fatigue syndrome and cancer-related fatigue. concerning inpatient care given the total number of
Both clinical and research activities focus on better 413 hospital admissions registered since 2006. In UNIT OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
care, supportive measures and innovative means the same year, the outpatient clinical activity included
to combat malignancies, tumors and cancer in 10.651 examinations, for a total of 3.956 intravenous The study of HIV-related tumors encompasses many
their various manifestations, HIV infection and HIV- chemotherapy administrations. scientific disciplines. The management of these
Via Franco Gallini, 2 - 33081 Aviano - ITALY - Tel. +39 0434 659111 - Fax: +39 0434 652182 - www.cro.it 19You can also read
