Objective To study the effects of asiaticoside on the growth of melanoma B16 cell cultures in vitro. Methods Melanoma B16 cells were subcultured and the inhibition of cellular growth was investigated. The morphology of the cells was observed after inhibition. The induction of apoptosis by asiaticoside was determined by flow cytometry. Results It was found that asiaticoside could significantly inhibit the growth of B16 cell cultures in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. The annexin-v positive cells were increased, along with that cells intaking R123 marked mitochondria were decreased, and PI positive cells increased, which indicated that cellular apoptosis was induced. Conclusion Asiaticoside plays an inhibitory role in the growth of melanoma B16 cells.

Objective To report the first case of cervical l ymphadenitis caused by Candida albicans in China.Methods A series of clinical,histopatholog ic.and mycologic studies were carried out in an 8year-old-boy with cervical lymphadenitis,who had no definite underlying disease.Candida albicans was isolated fromthe patient.The lymph node was investigated by me ans of culture,pathological and tra nsmission electron microscopic examination and cellular immunology detected by flow cytometer.Results There were several enlarged,warm,a nd fluctuant cervical lymph nodes which varied fr om 1cm?1cm to 4cm?4cm in size.One swo llen node was excised,and Candida albicans was found in the culture.The histopathologic changes of the cervical lym ph node were compatible with chronic granulomatous disease.PAS and methenamine silver(PAM)stain of a touch preparation of the bi opsy specimen revealed budding spores an d pseudohyphae.Lymphopenia with a p roportionate decrease of T-helper a nd T-suppressor cells was shown with flowcytometry.The patient received a combination therapy of surgery,flu conazole,thymosin and so on.After one month,t he patient's condition was improved.Many small lymph nodes disappeared,large lymph nodes became smaller.Tw o months later,only one large lymph n ode could be touched.Conclusion It is the first case of cervical lymphad enitis caused by Candida reported in China.Combination therapy of surgery,fluconazole and thymosin is effective.