We have demonstrated a cytoplasmic distribution of HIF-1α in 91% of PETs and HIF-2α in 29%, which has rarely been reported in other human tumours (Zhong et al, 1999; Talks et al, 2000; Zagzag et al, 2000; Giatromanolaki et al, 2001; Hui et al, 2002). The gene discussed is EPAS1; the disease is neoplasm.