Congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy with progressive sensorineural deafness: a case report of Harboyan syndrome

ABSTRACT We present the case of a 37-year-old woman who underwent bilateral penetrating keratoplasty for congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy at the age of 10 years. Over the subsequent 27 years, the patient's vision slowly deteriorated. Our examination revealed decompensation of the right corneal graft. We addressed this with regraft surgery. We then learned that the patient had been suffering from progressive hearing loss since adolescence. Tonal audiometry revealed hearing per ceptive deafness of 25 dB, which was more prominent in the left ear. Because the patterns of progressive sensorineural hearing loss and congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy have both been linked to the same gene, slc4a11, we tested our patient for mutations in this gene. The test was positive for a heterozygous slc4a11 gene fifth exon mutation on chromosome 20p13-p12, which causes a frameshift. A combined clinical and genetic evaluation confirmed a diagnosis of Harboyan syndrome. After the genetic diagnosis of the disease, she was evaluated for the need for a hearing aid due to her hearing loss. The patient was also informed about genetic counseling.

Polimorfismo de metilenotetrahidrofolato reductasa en pacientes jóvenes con ataque cerebrovascular e infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana / Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphism in young patients with stroke and human immunodeficiency virus

Resumen Introducción: El ataque cerebrovascular (ACV) en pacientes jóvenes está asociado a factores de riesgo no convencionales y su búsqueda activa puede disminuir la recurrencia de estos eventos. Presentación del caso: Se presentaron dos casos de pacientes jóvenes con infección por virus de inmuno-deficiencia humana (VIH) que mostraron síntomas neurológicos, con evidencia en resonancia magnética (RM) de un evento isquémico de evolución subaguda y niveles de homocisteína elevados, a quienes se les realizó una búsqueda de mutación de metilenotetrahidrofolato reductasa (MTHFR), la cual fue positiva para mutación homocigota. Discusión: La infección por VIH aumenta el riesgo de ACV en la población joven, sin embargo, su efecto en pacientes con viremia controlada está poco claro (1). La presencia de déficit de proteína S y la hiperhomocisteinemia son los estados procoagulantes más frecuentes en pacientes con VIH (2). El papel que juegan la presencia de mutaciones genéticas en relación con la hiperhomocisteinemia en pacientes con VIH aún está por establecerse. Conclusiones: La búsqueda activa de factores de riesgo no frecuentes en pacientes jóvenes con ACV juega un rol importante en la prevención de futuros eventos y modificación de la enfermedad. Así, las pruebas genéticas abren nuevas posibilidades para entender la fisiopatología de la enfermedad y encontrar nuevas relaciones entre factores de riesgo.

Abstract Introduction: Stroke in young patients is associated with unconventional risk factors. The active search for these risk factors can reduce the recurrence of such events. Case presentation: We present two cases of young patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection presenting neurological symptoms, with evidence of a subacute ischemic event in the magnetic resonance, and high homocysteine levels who underwent a search for the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation, which was positive for the homozygous mutation. Discussion: HIV infection increases the risk of stroke in the young population; however, its effect in patients with controlled viremia is unclear. The presence of protein S deficiency and hyperhomocysteinemia are the most frequent procoagulant states in patients with HIV. The role of genetic mutations and hyperhomocysteinemia in patients with HIV is yet to be established. Conclusion: The active search for rare risk factors in young stroke patients plays an important role in preventing future events and modifying the course of the disease. Genetic tests open up new possibilities to understand the pathophysiology of the disease and find new relationships between risk factors.

Controles de calidad externos en el diagnóstico molecular de enfermedades genéticas. Impacto sobre la calidad de los estudios genéticos / External quality controls in the molecular diagnosis of genetic diseases. Impact on the quality of the genetic studies / Controles de qualidade externos no diagnóstico molecular de doenças genéticas. Impacto na qualidade dos estudos genéticos

Resumen La participación en programas de evaluación externa de la calidad (PEEC) dirigidos al diagnóstico de enfermedades genéticas permite obtener una medida objetiva del desempeño técnico y analítico de los laboratorios y es un requisito para la acreditación de los laboratorios clínicos bajo la norma ISO 15189. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar retrospectivamente el desempeño en los esquemas EMQN (European Molecular Genetics Quality Network) y CF Network (Cystic Fibrosis European Network) en el período 2014-2022. Se participó en un total de 88 esquemas. Se recolectó la información de nuestros puntajes y las medias de los laboratorios participantes en las categorías genotipificación, interpretación y exactitud de la información del paciente/informe. Se informó en forma completa el 90,9% (n=80) de los esquemas. El desempeño en genotipificación mostró puntajes superiores a la media en el 89,3% de los esquemas; 0,8% de los informes correspondieron a falsos negativos. En interpretación, el 66,7% de los esquemas evidenció un desempeño superior a la media y el 33,3% debajo de la media. La exactitud de la información del paciente/informe presentó puntajes superiores a la media en el 97,6% de los esquemas. Se observó una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el porcentaje de esquemas con puntaje por encima de la media en el año 2022 (10/12 esquemas) respecto al año 2014 (1/6 esquemas) en la categoría interpretación (p=0,0128). En conclusión, la participación regular en PEEC tuvo impacto positivo en la calidad de los estudios y permite realizar mejoras continuas a partir de las recomendaciones sugeridas por estos programas.

Abstract Participation in external quality assessment programmes focused on rare genetic diseases makes it possible to assess the laboratory technical and analytical performance and it is a prerequisite for accreditation according to ISO 15189. The objective of this study was to perform a retrospective evaluation of our performance in the EMQN (European Molecular Genetics Quality Network) and the CF Network (Cystic Fibrosis European Network) programmes in the 2014-2022 period. The laboratory performance on genotyping, interpretation and clerical accuracy and patient identifiers in a total of 88 schemes were assessed. The information of our scores and the mean scores of all participating laboratories in the three categories were collected. A total of 90.9% of the schemes were fully completed. The performance in genotyping showed scores above the mean scores in 89.3% of the schemes; 0.8% of the reports correspond to false negative results. Regarding interpretation category, 66.7% of the schemes presented scores above the mean scores and 33.3% below the mean scores. The clerical accuracy and patient identifiers were above the mean scores in 97.6% of the schemes. A statistically significant difference in the percentage of schemes with a score above the mean for the interpretation category in the year 2022 (10/12 schemes) was observed compared to the year 2014 (1/6 schemes) (p=0.0128). In conclusion, regular participation in external quality assessment programmes had a positive impact on the quality of the studies and allows for continuous improvements based on the recommendations suggested by these programmes.

Resumo A participação em programas de avaliação externa da qualidade (PEECs) voltados para o diagnóstico de doenças genéticas permite obter uma mensuração objetiva do desempenho técnico e analítico dos laboratórios e é requisito para a acreditação dos laboratórios clínicos sob a norma ISO 15189. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar retrospectivamente o desempenho nos esquemas EMQN (European Molecular Genetics Quality Network) e CF Network (Cystic Fibrosis European Network) no período 2014-2022. Participou-se em um total de 88 esquemas. Foram coletadas informações de nossos escores e das médias dos laboratórios participantes nas categorias genotipagem, interpretação e precisão da informação do paciente/laudo. 90,9% (n=80) dos esquemas foram informados em sua totalidade. O desempenho na genotipagem apresentou escores acima da média em 89,3% dos esquemas; 0,8% dos laudos corresponderam a falsos negativos. Na interpretação, 66,7% dos esquemas apresentaram desempenho acima da média e 33,3% abaixo da média. A precisão das informações do paciente/laudo apresentou escores acima da média em 97,6% dos esquemas. Observou-se diferença estatisticamente significativa no percentual de esquemas com pontuação acima da média no ano de 2022 (10/12 esquemas) em relação ao ano de 2014 (1/6 esquemas) na categoria interpretação (p=0,0128). Em conclusão, a participação regular em PEECs teve um impacto positivo na qualidade dos estudos e permite fazer melhorias contínuas com base nas recomendações sugeridas por esses programas.

Application research of PGT in blocking the inheritance of novel mutations in the PKHD1 gene in autoso-mal recessive polycystic kidney disease pedigrees / 实用医学杂志

Objective To investigate the application value of single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP)linkage analysis based on next-generation sequencing(NGS)technology in preimplantation genetic testing(PGT)of families with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease(ARPKD).Methods A family with ARPKD was selected,where the female member had a pregnancy ultrasound revealing polycystic kidney in the fetus.Genetic testing showed compound heterozygous mutations of the polycystic kidney/polycystic liver disease 1 gene(PKHD1),c.10444C>T(paternal)and c.4303del(maternal),with the c.4303del mutation being reported for the first time.Targeting the coding region of the PKHD1 gene,335 high-density tightly linked SNP sites were selected in the upstream and downstream 2M regions using multiplex polymerase chain reaction(PCR)and NGS.The couple′s SNP risk haplotypes carrying gene mutations were constructed.After in vitro fertilization,blastocyst culture was performed.Trophoblastic cells obtained from the biopsy were subjected to whole-genome amplification,and NGS was used for linkage analysis and low-depth chromosomal aneuploidy screening of the embryos.Sanger sequencing was used to verify the results of embryo linkage analysis.Results Among the 6 biopsied embryos,4 were mutation-free and euploid,1 exhibited heterozygous for the mutation and mosaic while another unstable sequencing data,making it impossible to judge.One of the mutation-free and developmentally healthy euploid embryos was implanted into the maternal uterus,resulting in the full-term delivery of a healthy baby.Conclusion Application of NGS-based SNP linkage analysis in PGT can effectively blocking the vertical transmission of ARPKD within families,while avoiding abortion issues caused by aneuploid embryos.This study is also the first PGT report target-ing the PKHD1 gene c.4303del mutation.

Adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency after kidney transplantation: a case report and literature review / 器官移植

Objective To summarize the diagnosis and treatment experience of adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency after kidney transplantation. Methods Clinical data of 1 patient with adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency after kidney transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency were summarized by literature review. Results Renal biopsy showed that salt crystallization was found in most renal tubule lumen and positive results were observed under polarized light microscopy. After allopurinol, hemodialysis and anti-crystallization treatment, the graft function was gradually recovered. After postoperative 1-year follow-up, the patient's renal function was properly recovered. Conclusions Adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency after kidney transplantation may lead to delayed graft function or graft dysfunction. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment may delay disease progression and improve renal function.

Clinicopathologic Characteristics and Prognosis of Oligodendroglioma with IDH Mutation and 1p/19q Codeletion / 肿瘤防治研究

Objective To analyze the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of oligodendroglioma with IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion. Methods We collected the data of 54 oligodendroglioma patients with IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion.The patients'clinicopathological data, including age, histological grade, and tumor site, were analyzed for the effects on progression-free and overall survival. Results Among the 54 patients, 46 cases were with tumor sites in one lobe, and eight cases involved tumor sites in more than two lobes.A total of 12 and 42 cases had WHO grades 2 and 3 oligodendroglioma, respectively.Detection by fluorescence in situ hybridization showed 1p/19q co-deletion in all cases.Immunohistochemical tests revealed diffuse and strong positive results for Olig2.All glial fibrillary acidic proteins were positive.p53 was strongly positive in six cases.ATRX was expressed in all 48 cases.Ki-67 proliferation index ranged from 5% to 60%.Sanger sequencing showed that all 54 cases had IDH gene mutations (40 cases were IDH1 mutations, and 14 were IDH2 mutations), and 33 cases had telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter mutations.Relapse and metastasis occurred in 16 patients during treatment.Univariate analysis indicated that the postoperative recurrence and metastasis interval of more than two years can prolong the progression-free and overall survival of patients.All 54 patients had a mean progression-free survival of 33.5 months and the mean overall survival of 40.7 months. Conclusion For oligodendroglioma with IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion, precision chemoradiotherapy after surgery can reduce the risk of progression, and the postoperative recurrence and metastasis interval is associated with the prognosis.

Niemann-Pick disease type B and heterogeneous manifestations of its liver involvement： A case report / 临床肝胆病杂志

This article reports a case with the chief complaint of “hepatosplenomegaly to be investigated” and a confirmed diagnosis of Niemann-Pick disease type B after various tests， and a literature review was conducted to summarize the heterogeneous manifestations of liver involvement in type B Niemann-Pick disease， in order to improve the clinical management of difficult and rare liver diseases.

Dentification and blood transfusion therapy of anti-C, e alloantibodies with anti-e, Jkb mimicking alloantibodies / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the differential diagnosis of 1 anti-C, e alloantibodies combined with anti-e, Jkb mimicking alloantibodies by absorption-elution test and titer integral method. 【Methods】 ABO, Rh and Kidd blood group antigens were identified by tube method. Two sets of panel cells were used for antibody screening and antibody specificity identification by saline method, polyamine method and microcolumn gel method.The antibody was further confirmed by multiple absorption-elution tests and titer integral method. RHCE and JK gene were sequenced by multiple PCR. 【Results】 Serological gene sequencing analysis showed that the ABO blood group of the patient was A type with Rh subtype ccDEE and was positive for direct antiglobulin test (DAT). Multiple absorption-elution tests and titer integral method demonstrated that the serum of the patient contained anti-C, e alloantibodies along with anti-e, Jkb mimicking autoantibodies and there were anti-e, Jkb mimicking autoantibodies on red blood cells(RBCs). According to gene sequencing analysis, there was G>C at exon 676 of the RHCE gene, and the remaining exons were not mutated, suggesting that the RHCE phenotype was ccEE. The 838 G/A heterozygote of exon 9 in JK gene, Jk blood group phenotype was Jk (a+ b+ ). Cross matched type A ccDEE and Jk(a+ b-) RBCs were transfused, and no adverse reactions occurred. 【Conclusion】 Serology combined with molecular biology to identify the phenotype of the patient′s RBCs, absorption-elution test and titer integral method to identify the antibody of the patient′s serum can detect the alloantibody type, thus providing strategies for targeted blood transfusion.

Mitochondrial diabetes mellitus:a case report / 中国糖尿病杂志

Mitochondrial diabetes mellitus(MDM)is a type of diabetes caused by mitochondrial gene mutations resulting in progressive secretory function defects of pancreatic islet β cells.MDM is a rare single-gene genetic disease,accounting for about 1%of all diabetes mellitus.We reported a case of MDM patient and their family.

A review of clinical application and ethical research on medical genetic testing / 中国医学伦理学

The ethical issue of medical genetic testing is one of the highly concerned and controversial issues in the field of life sciences.With the rapid development of genomics research,the possibility of using genetic testing for disease risk assessment in clinical events has been increased,especially in precision medical genetic testing and preventive testing.By reviewing the current status and common ethical issues of the clinical application of genetic testing,and sorting out the corresponding ethical principles,this paper proposed the ethical principles of equal respect,informed consent,privacy protection,and non-harm,aiming to help medical staff to regulate diagnosis and treatment behavior,enhance their awareness of the ethical aspects of genetic testing,as well as promote the better development of genomics research.

Avaliação da concordância entre os resultados da genotipagem do polimorfismo C/T-13910 e do teste de tolerância à lactose: um estudo retrospectivo populacional no Brasil / Evaluation of agreement between c/t-13910 polymorphism genotyping results and lactose tolerance test results: a retrospective population-based study in brazil

ABSTRACT Background: Lactose tolerant test (LTT) is the most broadly used diagnostic test for lactose intolerance in Brazil, is an indirect, minimally invasive and a low-cost test that is widely available in primary care and useful in clinical practice. The C/T-13910 polymorphism in lactase persistence has been well characterized in Caucasian populations, but there are no studies evaluating the concordance between C/T-13910 polymorphism genotyping results and LTT results in Brazil, where the population is highly mixed. Objective: We aimed to evaluate agreement between presence of C/T-13910 polymorphism genotyping and malabsorption in LTT results. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of a Brazilian population whose data were collected from a single laboratory database present in several Brazilian states. Results of individuals who underwent both genetic testing for lactose intolerance (C/T-13910 polymorphism genotyping) and an LTT from April 2016 until February 2019 were analysed to evaluate agreement between tests. Groups were classified according to age (<10-year-old (yo), 10-17 yo, ≥18 yo groups) and state of residence (São Paulo or Rio Grande do Sul). Results: Among the 404 patients evaluated, there was agreement between the genotyping and LTT results in 325 (80.4%) patients and discordance in 79 (19.6%) patients (k=0.42 -moderate agreement). Regarding the genotype, 47 patients with genotype C/C (lactase nonpersistence) had normal LTT results, and 32 with genotype C/T or T/T (indicating lactase persistence) had abnormal LTT results. Neither age nor state of residence (Rio Grande do Sul or São Paulo) affected the agreement between test results. Conclusion: Considering the moderate agreement between C/T-13910 polymorphism genotyping and LTT results (κ=0.42) in the Brazilian population, we hypothesize that an analysis of other polymorphisms could be a strategy to improve the agreement between genotyping and established tests and suggest that additional studies should focus on exploring this approach.

RESUMO Contexto: O teste de tolerancia à lactose (TTL) é ampliamente utilizado por ser minimamente invasivo e de baixo custo, disponível na atenção primária e muito útil na prática clínica. Está bem estabelecido o polimorfismo C/T-13910 na persistência da lactase em populações caucasianas, mas não há estudos avaliando a concordância entre os resultados da genotipagem do polimorfismo C/T-13910 e do TTL no Brasil, onde a população é altamente miscigenada. Objetivo: Avaliar a concordância entre a presença do polimorfismo C/T-13910 e a má absorção nos resultados do TTL. Métodos: Análise retrospectiva de dados coletados de um laboratorio presente em vários estados brasileiros. Os resultados dos pacientes que realizaram um teste genético para intolerância à lactose (genotipagem do polimorfismo C/T-13910) e um TTL de abril de 2016 a fevereiro de 2019 foram analisados para avaliar a concordância entre os testes. Os grupos foram classificados de acordo com a idade (<10 anos; 10-17 anos, ≥18 anos) e estado de residência (São Paulo ou Rio Grande do Sul). Resultados: Entre os 404 pacientes avaliados, houve concordância entre os resultados de genotipagem e TTL em 325 (80,4%) pacientes e discordância em 79 (19,6%) pacientes (K=0,42 - concordância moderada). Em relação ao genótipo, 47 pacientes com genótipo C/C (não persistência de lactase) apresentaram TTL normal e 32 com genótipo C/T ou T/T (indicando persistência da lactase) apresentaram TTL anormal. A idade e o estado de residência (Rio Grande do Sul ou São Paulo) não afetaram a concordância entre os resultados dos exames. Conclusão: Considerando a concordância moderada entre a genotipagem do polimorfismo C/T-13910 e os resultados de TTL (κ=0,42) na população brasileira, sugerimos que a análise de outros polimorfismos poderia ser uma estratégia para melhorar a concordância entre os testes.

Análisis de 5,789 biopsias de trofoectodermo: desenlaces clínicos y probabilidad de embarazo en ciclos con prueba genética preimplantacional para aneuploidias / Analysis of 5,789 trophectoderm biopsies: clinical outcomes and pregnancy probability in preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy cycles

Resumen OBJETIVO: Analizar la tasa de euploidia, los desenlaces clínicos y la probabilidad de lograr un embarazo en función de la edad de la madre, los blastocistos biopsiados y la calidad embrionaria. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo efectuado para evaluar las biopsias de trofoectodermo de los ciclos con prueba genética preimplantacional para aneuploidias de pacientes atendidas en Vida Genetics (León, Guanajuato) de noviembre de 2017 a marzo de 2023. RESULTADOS: Se evaluaron 5789 biopsias de trofoectodermo de 1442 ciclos de la prueba genética preimplantacional para aneuploidias mediante secuenciación masiva en mujeres de 18 a 48 años. Tasa global de euploidia por ciclo: 36.3%, aneuploidia: 57.2% y mosaicismmo: 6.5%. La tasa de euploidia disminuyó con el incremento de la edad de las madres (75% en 18 años, 0% en 47-48 años). Los embriones de buena calidad tuvieron mayores tasas de euploidia (50%) comparados con calidad regular (47%) y mala calidad (31.7%) (p < 0.0001). Los embriones con biopsia en día 5 tuvieron tasas de euploidia mayores (42.7%) comparados con los de día 6 (32%) y día 7 (27.2%) (p < 0.0001). La tasa de embarazo clínico fue del 60.4%, implantación 57.2% y aborto espontáneo 11.2%. La probabilidad de lograr, al menos, un embrión euploide fue mayor en las pacientes con mayor cantidad de blastocistos con biopsia. La probabilidad de lograr un embarazo con un embrión euploide se vio afectada por la calidad del embrión transferido. CONCLUSIONES: Se corrobora la asociación entre la edad materna avanzada y la tasa de aneuploidia. Destaca la repercusión de la calidad embrionaria y el día en que se toma la biopsia en los desenlaces de la prueba genética preimplantacional para aneuploidias y la importancia de la calidad del embrión en las tasas de éxito del tratamiento.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To analyze the rate of euploidy, clinical outcomes, and the probability of achieving pregnancy as a function of maternal age, biopsied blastocysts, and embryo quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective and descriptive study performed to evaluate trophectoderm biopsies from cycles with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy of patients seen at Vida Genetics (León, Guanajuato) from November 2017 to March 2023. RESULTS: 5,789 trophectoderm biopsies from 1,442 cycles of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy by massive sequencing were evaluated in women aged 18 to 48 years. The overall euploidy rate per cycle was 36.3%, aneuploidy 57.2%, and mosaicism 6.5%. The euploidy rate decreased with increasing maternal age (75.0% at 18 years, 0% at 47-48 years). Good quality embryos had a higher euploidy rate (50.0%) compared to fair quality (47.0%) and poor quality (31.7%) (p < 0.0001). Embryos biopsied on day 5 had higher euploidy rates (42.7%) compared to day 6 (32.0%) and day 7 (27.2%) (p < 0.0001). The clinical pregnancy rate was 60.4%, implantation 57.2% and miscarriage 11.2%. The probability of achieving at least one euploid embryo was higher in patients with a higher number of biopsied blastocysts. The probability of achieving pregnancy with a euploid embryo was influenced by the quality of the transferred embryo. CONCLUSIONS: The association between advanced maternal age and the rate of aneuploidy is confirmed. The influence of embryo quality and day of biopsy on the outcome of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy and the importance of embryo quality for treatment success rates are highlighted.

Long-range PCR amplification-based targeted enrichment & next generation sequencing: A cost-effective testing strategy for lysosomal storage disorders

Background & objectives: Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are genetic metabolic disorders which result from deficiency of lysosomal enzymes or defects in other lysosomal components. Molecular genetic testing of LSDs is required for diagnostic confirmation when lysosomal enzyme assays are not available or not feasible to perform, and for the identification of the disease causing genetic variants. The aim of this study was to develop a cost-effective, readily customizable and scalable molecular genetic testing strategy for LSDs. Methods: A testing method was designed based on the in-house creation of selective amplicons through long range PCR amplification for targeted capture and enrichment of different LSD genes of interest, followed by next generation sequencing of pooled samples. Results: In the first phase of the study, standardization and validation of the study protocol were done using 28 samples of affected probands and/or carrier parents (group A) with previously identified variants in seven genes, and in the second phase of the study, 30 samples of enzymatically confirmed or biopsy-proven patients with LSDs and/or their carrier parents who had not undergone any prior mutation analysis (group B) were tested and the sequence variants identified in them through the study method were validated by targeted Sanger sequencing. Interpretation & conclusions: This testing approach was found to be reliable, easily customizable and cost-effective for the molecular genetic evaluation of LSDs. The same strategy may be applicable, especially in resource poor settings, for developing cost-effective multigene panel tests for other conditions with genetic heterogeneity.

Estudio preliminar de correlación fenotipo-genotipo en miocardiopatías de pacientes derivados a un centro de alta complejidad del conurbano bonaerense / A Preliminary Study of the Phenotype-Genotype Correlation in Cardiomyopathies in Patients Referred to a Tertiary Healthcare Center in the Suburbs of Buenos Aires

RESUMEN Introducción : Las miocardiopatías se definen como un trastorno del miocardio en el que el músculo cardíaco es estructural y funcionalmente anormal, en ausencia de enfermedad arterial coronaria, hipertensión arterial (HTA), enfermedad valvular y enfermedad cardíaca congénita. Estas enfermedades son relativamente frecuentes, y suponen una importante causa de morbimortalidad a nivel global. Aunque el estudio genético se recomienda para el cribado familiar, la falta de datos robustos sobre asociaciones genotipo-fenotipo específicas ha reducido su impacto en el manejo clínico. Objetivos : El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la frecuencia de mutaciones en una población de pacientes con miocardiopatía derivados a un centro de alta complejidad y el análisis de la correlación genotipo-fenotipo en las mutaciones identificadas. Material y métodos: Se estudiaron en forma prospectiva 102 pacientes con sospecha de miocardiopatía hipertrófica (MCH) familiar, de los cuales 70 constituían casos índices, de una cohorte ambispectiva de pacientes con miocardiopatías controladas en un hos pital público de alta complejidad de tercer nivel de atención de la provincia de Buenos Aires, desde enero 2012 al 30 agosto 2022. Resultados : De 102 pacientes 83 fueron considerados afectados. De eelos, 31 eran MCH y 52 fenocopias, sin diferencia en el pronóstico. Se realizó estudio genético en 77 pacientes, de los cuales 57 presentaron mutaciones reconocibles, en el 80% de los casos coincidentes con un Score de Mayo ≥3. Se detectaron 28 variantes de significado incierto. Conclusiones : Se comprobó que realizar estudio molecular guiado por el Score de Mayo permitió obtener un alto grado de probabilidad de detectar mutaciones. Se evidenció la importancia del estudio molecular debido a la existencia de solapamiento fenotípico y genotípico de las miocardiopatías. El conocimiento de la variante genética causal actualmente no afecta el manejo clínico de la mayoría de los pacientes con MCH, pero es de ayuda ante un pequeño grupo de genes que tienen opciones de tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Background : Cardiomyopathies are defined as a disorder of the myocardium in which the heart muscle is structurally and functionally abnormal, in the absence of coronary artery disease, hypertension (HT), valvular heart disease and congenital heart disease. These diseases are relatively common and a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although genetic testing is recommended for family screening, lack of solid data on specific genotype-phenotype associations has reduced its impact on clinical management. Objectives : This study aims to analyze the frequency of mutations in a population of patients with cardiomyopathy referred to a tertiary healthcare center and to analyze the genotype-phenotype correlation of the identified mutations. Methods : We prospectively included 102 patients with suspected familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), 70 of which were index cases, from an ambispective cohort of patients with cardiomyopathies treated in a tertiary healthcare public hos pital in the province of Buenos Aires, from January 2012 to August 30, 2022. Results : Of 102 patients, 83 were considered affected. Of these, 31 were HCM and 52 were phenocopies, with no difference in prognosis. A genetic study was carried out in 77 patients, of whom 57 presented recognizable mutations, in 80% of the cases coinciding with a Mayo Score ≥3. Twenty-eight variants of uncertain significance were detected. Conclusions : It was confirmed that molecular testing guided by the Mayo Score provided high probability of detecting mutations. Molecular testing proved to be important due to the phenotypic and genotypic overlap in cardiomyopathies. Understanding the causative genetic variant, nowadays, does not affect the clinical management of most HCM patients, but is helpful in a small group of genes with treatment options.

Early occurrence of primary angle-closure glaucoma in a patient with retinitis pigmentosa and CRB1 gene variations / Manifestação precoce de glaucoma de ângulo fechado em paciente com retinopatia por mutação no gene CRB1

ABSTRACT We describe the case of a 15-year-old girl with decreased visual acuity associated with elevated intraocular pressure in both eyes and angle closure on gonioscopy. She also presented attenuation of retinal vessels and optic disc pallor with large excavation in the left eye. Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed an anteriorly positioned ciliary body and absence of ciliary sulcus, confirming the plateau iris configuration. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography revealed a bilateral cystoid macular edema. Genetic screening revealed heterozygous variants of the Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) gene (c.2843G>A and c.2506C>A). The patient underwent trabeculectomy for intraocular pressure control and topical treatment for macular edema. This case highlights the importance of performing gonioscopy and evaluating intraocular pressure in patients with a shallow anterior chamber despite young age. In addition, it also shows the importance of genetic screening, when available, in elucidating the diagnosis and providing patients and their families' information on the patient's prognosis and possible therapeutic options.

RESUMO Nós descrevemos um caso de uma paciente de 15 anos com queda de acuidade visual e aumento da pressão intraocular em ambos os olhos, juntamente com fechamento angular no exame de gonioscopia. Na fundoscopia a paciente apresentava atenuação dos vasos retinianos, palidez de disco e aumento de escavação em olho esquerdo. Ao exame da biomicroscopia ultrassônica, foi evidenciado corpo ciliar anteriorizado e ausência de sulco ciliar em ambos os olhos, relevando presença de íris em plateau. Ao exame de tomografia de coerência óptica, visualizamos presença de edema macular cistoide bilateral. O screening genético revelou heterozigose no gene CRB1 (c.2843G>A and c.2506C>A), confirmando o diagnóstico de retinose pigmentar. Este caso reforça a importância do exame de gonioscopia e da avaliação da pressão intraocular em pacientes em câmara rasa, mesmo em pacientes jovens. Além disso, mostra a importância do screening genético como ferramenta útil para elucidação diagnóstica.

Update of the Brazilian consensus recommendations on Duchenne muscular dystrophy / Atualização das recomendações do consenso brasileiro para distrofia muscular de Duchenne

Abstract In the last few decades, there have been considerable improvements in the diagnosis and care of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the most common childhood muscular dystrophy. International guidelines have been published and recently reviewed. A group of Brazilian experts has developed a standard of care based on a literature review with evidence-based graded recommendations in a two-part publication. Implementing best practice management has helped change the natural history of this chronic progressive disorder, in which the life expectancy for children of the male sex in the past used to be very limited. Since the previous publication, diagnosis, steroid treatment, rehabilitation, and systemic care have gained more significant insights with new original work in certain fields. Furthermore, the development of new drugs is ongoing, and some interventions have been approved for use in certain countries. Therefore, we have identified the need to review the previous care recommendations for Brazilian patients with DMD. Our objective was to create an evidence-based document that is an update on our previous consensus on those topics.

Resumo Nas últimas décadas, houve progressos significativos no diagnóstico e no tratamento da distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD), considerada a distrofia muscular mais comum na infância. Diretrizes internacionais foram publicadas e revisadas recentemente. Um grupo de especialistas brasileiros desenvolveu um padrão de atendimento baseado em revisão de literatura, com recomendações graduadas pautadas em evidências compiladas em uma publicação dividida em duas partes. A implementação de melhores práticas de manejo ajudou a modificar a história natural desta doença crônica, progressiva, que, no passado, oferecia uma expectativa de vida muito limitada para crianças do sexo masculino. Desde a publicação desse consenso anterior, o diagnóstico, o tratamento com esteroides, a reabilitação e os cuidados sistêmicos ganharam novas possibilidades a partir da divulgação dos resultados de trabalhos originais em algumas dessas áreas. Além disso, as pesquisas e o desenvolvimento de novos fármacos estão em andamento, e algumas intervenções já foram aprovadas para uso em determinados países. Nesse contexto, identificamos a necessidade de rever as recomendações anteriores sobre o manejo dos pacientes brasileiros com DMD. Nosso objetivo principal foi elaborar uma atualização baseada em evidências sobre esses tópicos do consenso.

Blood immunological analysis of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn caused by Rh deletion type D-- / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To analyze the causes of a case of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN),and investigate the genetic background of maternal Rh deletion D--formation. 【Methods】 Blood samples of maternal and fetus were collected, and ABO blood typing, Rh blood typing, antibody screening and identification test were performed to explore the blood group serological characteristics of Rh deletion type D--, and Rh gene sequence was performed on parturient. 【Results】 The maternal blood group was identified to be O type, D--, and the anti-Hr0 antibody against Rh high-frequency antigen was suspected to be caused by multiple pregnancies which passes through the placental barrier and enable fetus to obtain anti Hr0 antibody, leading to HDFN, with genetic testing result as RH RHCE* Ce/RHCE* Ce. 【Conclusion】 In-depth research on the formation mechanism of Rh D-- in parturient should be conducted to provide clinical value for HDFN blood exchange treatment and blood transfusion in special blood group population.

Study on Vulnerability of Children in Talent Genetic Testing / 中国医学伦理学

Vulnerability is an inherent and ineradicable reality, and different contexts can exacerbate or induce different manifestations of vulnerability. By sorting out the meaning of vulnerability and identifying particular manifestations and attributions of children’ vulnerability in talent genetic testing situations, including the inherent vulnerability of children themselves, the situational vulnerability derived from talent genetic testing and educational environment, as well as the pathogenic vulnerability from the protection of minors. It was proposed that talent genetic testing of children should be guided by the principles of responsibility, no harm, and permission, so as to protect children from additional harm during testing and avoid exacerbating their vulnerability.

Genetics in prenatal diagnosis

The options for prenatal genetic testing have evolved rapidly in the past decade, and advances in sequencing technology now allow genetic diagnoses to be made down to the single-base-pair level, even before the birth of the child. This offers women the opportunity to obtain information regarding the foetus, thereby empowering them to make informed decisions about their pregnancy. As genetic testing becomes increasingly available to women, clinician knowledge and awareness of the options available to women is of great importance. Additionally, comprehensive pretest and posttest genetic counselling about the advantages, pitfalls and limitations of genetic testing should be provided to all women. This review article aims to cover the range of genetic tests currently available in prenatal screening and diagnosis, their current applications and limitations in clinical practice as well as what the future holds for prenatal genetics.

Understanding cancer predisposition in Singapore: What's next

Knowledge of an underlying genetic predisposition to cancer allows the use of personalised prognostic, preventive and therapeutic strategies for the patient and carries clinical implications for family members. Despite great progress, we identified six challenging areas in the management of patients with hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes and suggest recommendations to aid in their resolution. These include the potential for finding unexpected germline variants through somatic tumour testing, optimal risk management of patients with hereditary conditions involving moderate-penetrance genes, role of polygenic risk score in an under-represented Asian population, management of variants of uncertain significance, clinical trials in patients with germline pathogenic variants and technology in genetic counselling. Addressing these barriers will aid the next step forward in precision medicine in Singapore. All stakeholders in healthcare should be empowered with genetic knowledge to fully leverage the potential of novel genomic insights and implement them to provide better care for our patients.