Symptoms and management of cow's milk allergy: perception and evidence.

Introduction: The diagnosis and management of cow's milk allergy (CMA) is a topic of debate and controversy. Our aim was to compare the opinions of expert groups from the Middle East (n = 14) and the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) (n = 13). Methods: These Expert groups voted on statements that were developed by the ESPGHAN group and published in a recent position paper. The voting outcome was compared. Results: Overall, there was consensus amongst both groups of experts. Experts agreed that symptoms of crying, irritability and colic, as single manifestation, are not suggestive of CMA. They agreed that amino-acid based formula (AAF) should be reserved for severe cases (e.g., malnutrition and anaphylaxis) and that there is insufficient evidence to recommend a step-down approach. There was no unanimous consensus on the statement that a cow's milk based extensively hydrolysed formula (eHF) should be the first choice as a diagnostic elimination diet in mild/moderate cases. Although the statements regarding the role for hydrolysed rice formula as a diagnostic and therapeutic elimination diet were accepted, 3/27 disagreed. The votes regarding soy formula highlight the differences in opinion in the role of soy protein in CMA dietary treatment. Generally, soy-based formula is seldom available in the Middle-East region. All ESPGHAN experts agreed that there is insufficient evidence that the addition of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics increase the efficacy of elimination diets regarding CMA symptoms (despite other benefits such as decrease of infections and antibiotic intake), whereas 3/14 of the Middle East group thought there was sufficient evidence. Discussion: Differences in voting are related to geographical, cultural and other conditions, such as cost and availability. This emphasizes the need to develop region-specific guidelines considering social and cultural conditions, and to perform further research in this area.

A critical influence of HIF-1 on MMP-9 and Galectin-3 in oral lichen planus.

OBJECTIVE: Oral lichen planus carries a risk for malignancy. The pathogenesis of the disease is mediated by various inflammatory mediators. Several mediators could be responsible for the oncogenic behavior in certain cases. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1a (HIF-1), and its possible correlation to Galactin-3 (Gal-3) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) over expression represents an important indicator for malignant transformation. The investigation of these factors may present evidence-based information on malignant transformation of the disease. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study investigated the expression of HIF-1, Gla-3 and MMP-9 in tissue samples of OLP compared to control subjects of un-inflamed gingival overgrowth. 20 biospecimen were allocated in each group. RESULTS: Immunohistochemical findings of OLP showed immunoreactivity for Galectin 3, HIF1a and MMP-9 by most of the epithelial cells. There was a positive correlation between HIF1α and MMP-9, r = 0.9301 (P-value < 0.00001). A positive correlation was detected between Galectin 3 and MMP-9, r = 0.7292 (P-value = 0.000264) between Galectin 3 and HIF1α, r = 0.5893 (P-value = 0.006252). CONCLUSION: These findings confirm the hypothesis that the adaptive pathways to hypoxia as Gal 3 and MMP-9 expressions and their HIF-1 may play a crucial role in carcinogenesis of OLP.

Late onset neonatal sepsis: Can plasma gelsolin be a promising diagnostic marker?

Plasma gelsolin (pGSN) correlates with clinical improvement in septic patients. We aimed to investigate pGSN levels as a diagnostic and prognostic marker of neonatal late-onset-sepsis (LOS). A case-control study was done on 184 neonates (92 with LOS and 92 controls). All participants were subjected to detailed history taking, full clinical evaluation, sepsis workup, and pGSN enzyme-linked immunosorbent-assay measurement. We detected significantly lower pGSN level among cases compared to controls (90.63 ±â€…20.64 vs 451.83 ±â€…209.59). It was significantly related to the severity of sepsis and mortality, with significantly lower values among cases with septic shock and multiorgan failure and non-survivors. Follow-up pGSN significantly increased after sepsis improvement in survivors compared to admission values. pGSN might be a reliable diagnostic and prognostic marker for LOS.

"Progressive myoclonic ataxia and developmental/epileptic encephalopathy associated with a novel homozygous mutation in TCN2 gene".

BACKGROUND: Transcobalamin II (TCN2) defect is a rare metabolic disorder associated with a range of neurological manifestations, including mild developmental delay, severe intellectual disability, ataxia, and, in some cases, seizures. Cobalamin, an essential nutrient, plays a crucial role in central nervous system myelination. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We present a family with an index patient who exhibited progressive neurodevelopmental regression starting at 9 months of age, accompanied by myoclonic seizures, ataxia, and tremor. No significant hematological abnormalities were observed. Exome sequencing analysis identified a novel homozygous mutation, c.3G>A - P(Met1I), affecting the acceptor site of intron 4 of the TCN2 gene (chromosome 22: 31003321, NM_000355.4), leading to likely pathogenic variant potentially affecting translation. Following treatment with hydroxocobalamin, the patient demonstrated partial clinical improvement. He has a sibling with overt hematological abnormalities and subtle neurological abnormalities who is homozygous to the same mutation. Both parents are heterozygous for the same mutation. CONCLUSIONS: In infants presenting with unexplained non-specific neurological symptoms, irrespective of classical signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, evaluation for TCN2 defect should be considered. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can lead to favorable outcomes.

Unraveling Alström syndrome: Homozygous mutation c.2729C>G in ALMS1 gene across an extended family.

BACKGROUND: Alström syndrome (AS) represents an exceptionally rare genetic disorder characterized by a constellation of features including cardiomyopathy, progressive hearing and vision impairment, as well as obesity. This study seeks to elucidate the genetic underpinnings of this syndrome within the Saudi Arabian population. METHODS: Employing an extended family cohort, we conducted an exhaustive molecular genetic assessment to delineate the presence of Alström syndrome. Additionally, we conducted an extensive review of existing literature from Saudi population to contextualize our findings within the broader understanding of the disorder in our country. RESULTS: Within our studied extended family, we identified two individuals harboring the homozygous pathogenic mutation (c.2729C>G) in the ALMS1 gene [NM_015120.4:c.2729C>G (p.Ser910*)]. Notably, carrier status was observed in the parents, whereas some siblings exhibited typical alleles while others were carriers of the mutation. Intriguingly, a review of the literature unveiled six distinct reports documenting a total of 20 Alström syndrome patients within the Saudi Arabian population, each presenting with distinct novel mutations. CONCLUSIONS: In cases featuring cardiomyopathy, obesity, and progressive hearing and vision loss, Alström syndrome merits inclusion within the differential diagnosis. To confirm the diagnosis, molecular genetic assessment of the ALMS1 gene is imperative, offering definitive clarity amidst the complex clinical presentation. This investigation reinforces the importance of genetic scrutiny for precise diagnosis and highlights the unique genetic landscape of Alström syndrome within the Saudi Arabian population.

Vertebral artery dissection aneurysm in a pediatric patient: A rare case with unusual clinical manifestations, diagnostic, and management challenges.

Vertebral artery aneurysm is a rare condition with diverse clinical manifestations in pediatric patients. We present the case of a 12-year-old male who presented with diplopia, vomiting, ataxia, and severe headache. Diagnostic evaluation revealed an extracranial vertebral artery dissection with an associated aneurysm at the C3-C4 level. Despite the absence of recurrent ischemic strokes, the aneurysm posed challenges in differentiating the symptoms from other inflammatory demyelinating disorders, particularly internuclear ophthalmoplegia. Diagnosis relied on a thorough history, physical examination, and imaging studies. Magnetic resonance imaging with magnetic resonance angiography confirmed the diagnosis and played a crucial role in assessing the size, location, and extent of the aneurysm. Additionally, the imaging findings helped guide treatment decisions and determine the need for anticoagulation therapy. Regular follow-up imaging was initiated to monitor for late complications and evaluate the effectiveness of the management approach. This case highlights the atypical presentation of vertebral artery aneurysm in a pediatric patient, underscoring the importance of clinical suspicion and the role of advanced imaging techniques in facilitating accurate diagnosis and guiding appropriate management. Prompt diagnosis and optimal utilization of imaging modalities are essential in preventing severe morbidity and mortality. Further research is warranted to enhance our understanding of this condition and refine imaging and management protocols in pediatric population.

The Study of Carotid Artery Intima-Media Thickness in Children With Epilepsy on Anti-Epileptic Drugs.

Objectives. To evaluate carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) and lipid profile in children with epilepsy on long-term antiepileptic drug (AED) monotherapy. Methods. We included 60 children with epilepsy receiving valproate, carbamazepine, or levetiracetam monotherapy and 60 controls. A high-resolution B-mode ultrasound was used to measure (CIMT). Measurement of serum lipids was done. Results. Patients on valproate (0.44 ± 0.03, P ≤ .001), carbamazepine (0.43 ± 0.03with P ≤ .001), and levetiracetam (0.44 ± 0.02 with P ≤ .001) monotherapy showed significantly higher CIMT compared to controls. CIMT was correlated with age (P = .041, r = .112) AEDs{valproate (P = .005, r = .731), carbamazepine (P = .038, r = .365), and levetiracetam (P = .036, r = .155)}, duration of treatment (P = .001, r = .313), TC(P = .001, r = .192), TG (P = .014, r = .018), and LDL (P = .001, r = .219). HDL (P = .003, r = -.126). Seizure severity and Apo A1 were insignificantly involved. Conclusion. Long-term monotherapy with valproate, carbamazepine, and levetiracetam in epileptic children was associated with significant abnormalities in CIMT.

Lipoid Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia With a Novel StAR Gene Mutation.

Lipoid congenital adrenal hyperplasia (LCAH) is characterized by disturbance of adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis (OMIM:201710). It is caused by mutation in the Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein (StAR). We report a classic case of LCAH in a neonate (46, XY) with phenotypic female genitalia who presented with significant salt loss with a novel homozygous variant mutation c.745-1G>C p. in StAR gene.

An Unusual Case of Headache in a Child: Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension with Diagnostic Challenge.

Introduction: In children, idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is relatively uncommon. It is characterized by an increase in intracranial pressure, in the absence of evidence of underlying brain disease, structural abnormalities, hydrocephalus, or abnormal meningeal improvement. However, very rarely it can occur without papilledema, even though it is the most recognizable clinical sign. Due to this, a delay in diagnosis can lead to severe visual impairments. Case presentation: We describe a patient with a chronic headache but no papilledema. His neurological and systemic examinations were otherwise unremarkable. A lumbar puncture revealed a high opening pressure of 450 mmH2O and normal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed only tortuous optic nerves, no parenchymal lesions, and no evidence of venous sinus thrombosis. He required acetazolamide treatment. Our patient's symptoms improved significantly in 2 months with medical treatment, weight loss, and exercise, with no development of papilledema. Conclusion: There is a wide range of clinical manifestations of IIH, making it difficult to decide when to begin treatment.

Down syndrome patients with normal hearts: are they really normal?

Even though congenital heart disease is a common finding in down syndrome (DS) patients, some of them have anatomically normal hearts. However, the term "normal" might not be suitable, as these patients usually suffer from functional cardiac dysfunction. Several research highlighted that despite the absence of anatomical heart defects, subtle cardiac function derangements are present in DS patients. We aim to assess cardiac functions by Two-dimensional echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in pediatric DS patients who have anatomically normal hearts. One hundred seventy-two patients with karyotyping confirmed DS with anatomically normal hearts and 165 healthy normal control children were enrolled in the current study. Their cardiac functions were assessed using both 2-dimensional echocardiography and TDI. Both patients and controls had structurally and anatomically normal hearts. In DS patients, the right side of the heart showed a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic functions. Systolic dysfunction was evident by significantly decreased levels of Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and systolic wave by TDI. Diastolic dysfunction of the right ventricle was evident by prolonged deceleration time by conventional echocardiography and a significant decrease in annular tissue doppler velocity during early diastole/late diastole ratio by TDI. The E/De ratio was significantly increased. Even with anatomically normal hearts, DS patients should undergo cardiac function assessment by echocardiography & TDI. TDI is superior to conventional echocardiography in detecting subtle cardiac dysfunction especially left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in DS patients. TDI showed a significant decrease in the early/atrial ratio of mitral valve annulus and prolongation of left ventricle isometric relaxation time in DS children. Also, the left ventricle E/De ratio was prolonged denoting elevated filling pressures and diastolic dysfunction. This indicates that the TDI has higher sensitivity to detect diastolic dysfunction than conventional Echocardiography. Biventricular TDI-derived myocardial performance index was found to be significantly increased in DS children.

Pediatric myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody associated disease-Asymmetric papilledema and elevated ICP are two of the chameleons: A case report.

BACKGROUND: Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOGA) associated diseases are inflammatory immune-mediated demyelinating disorders with relapse potential involving the central nervous system. Multiple unusual clinical manifestations of those disorders were reported, making treatment decisions difficult. CASE PRESENTATION: A healthy 12-year-old obese boy presented with headache and bilateral asymmetric papilledema. The patient had a negative medical history. His neurological and general examinations were unremarkable, his initial magnetic resonance imaging showed elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) only. A lumbar puncture revealed increased opening pressure and pleocytosis. The MOGA titer was 1:320. He needed acetazolamide and steroid therapy. After 2 months of medication, weight loss, exercise, the patient symptoms significantly improved, papilledema resolved, and visual function improved. CONCLUSION: MOGA-associated disorders have a variety of clinical features, so a high index of suspicion is required for their diagnosis. Papilledema and an elevated ICP are 2 of the chameleons of MOGA-associated disorders. MOGA test may be useful in patients with elevated ICP and inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid profiles. An investigation of the possible association between those disorders and high ICP is warranted.

Beta Thalassemia Carrier Rate: Problem Burden among High School Children.

Background & Aim of the Work: ß-Thalassemia (ßT) is highly prevalent in some countries like Egypt. Accurate data about actual disease prevalence and heavily prevalent geographic locations are essential to help in early detection and in setting up effective preventive programs. We aim for screening ßT carriers among Egyptian high school students in the Delta region. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional multicenter study was carried out on 4320 randomly selected students from four governorates of the Nile Delta region, Egypt. All patients were to be tested for their complete blood count. Those with microcytic hypochromic anemia not caused by iron deficiency were tested for ßT carrier status using high-performance liquid chromatography. RESULTS: The total prevalence of ßT carrier rate was 6.13%. The highest prevalence was detected in Al-Sharkia Governorate, reaching 7.89%, followed by 6.90% in Al-Gharbia Governorate. Al- Dakahilia and Al-Menoufia showed lower rates of 4.86% and 3.73%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Despite the premarital national screening program for ßT in Egypt, the carrier rate is still high. More effort should be done into the proper implementation of national prevention programs.

A Comparative Study of Levetiracetam and Phenobarbital for Neonatal Seizures as a First Line Treatment.

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the use of intravenous levetiracetam as the first-line treatment of neonatal seizures compared with phenobarbital. Methods: The study was conducted on 104 neonates (0-28 days) with clinical seizures after inclusion criteria. They were assigned in equal ratio into 2 groups; 1 included neonates who received phenobarbitone, and the other included neonates who received levetiracetam. Neonates were loaded with 20 mg/kg of intravenous drug-A (phenobarbitone) or drug-B (levetiracetam). In persistent seizures, a second loading dose of the same drug was given. Crossover to other drugs occurred if seizures persisted after the second dose of the same drug. The proportion of neonates who achieved cessation of seizures following the first or second loading dose of either drug-A or drug-B (PB or LEV) was the main outcome measure provided that they remained free of seizure for the following 24 hours. Results: After 1 or 2 doses of Levetiracatam or Phenobarbitone, clinical seizures stopped (and remained seizure-free for 24 hours) in 41 (78.84%) and 34 (65.38%) patients, respectively (P = .01). Neonates in the LEV group showed better seizure control than neonates in the PB group (RR = 0.57; 95% CI (0.17, 0.80). We did not report any adverse drug reactions in the LEV group. However, 12 (23.07%) neonates developed adverse drug reactions in the PB Group. Conclusion: Levetiracetam is considered an effective and safe drug as a first-line AED in neonatal seizures.

Platinum-induced ototoxicity in pediatric cancer survivors: GSTP1 c.313A>G variant association.

Hearing damage is one of the main toxic effects of platinum compounds, it derives from the irreversible degeneration of hair cells of the ear. Genetic association studies have suggested an association between GSTP1 c.313A>G variant and platinum-induced ototoxicity in childhood cancer survivors. We aimed to detect the frequency of ototoxicity and associated risk factors in survivors of childhood cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy and to detect the relation between GSTP1 c.313A>G (rs1695) polymorphisms and ototoxicity. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 64 cancer survivors who received platinum agents (cisplatin and/or carboplatin) at least 2 years after the end of chemotherapy. The patients underwent comprehensive audiological evaluations and genotyping to detect the presence of the GSTP1 c.313A>G polymorphisms. Hearing loss (HL) was identified in 16/64 patients (25%), including 62.5% treated with cisplatin and 37.5% treated with carboplatin. The greater incidence of ototoxicity was found in children treated for osteosarcoma (28.1%) followed by patients with germ cell tumors (25%) and neuroblastoma (21.9%). The AA, AG, and GG types of GSTP1 c.313A>G variant were detected in 84.4%, 9.4%, and 6.3%, respectively, of patients with HL with a significant association between mutant genotype of GSTP1 rs1695 and platinum-induced ototoxicity (P = .035). HL was not significantly associated with the total cumulative dose of cisplatin and carboplatin. GSTP1 c.313A>G variant may increase the risk of HL in pediatric oncology patients treated with cisplatin or carboplatin chemotherapy.

Validity of serum and urinary hepcidin as biomarkers for late-onset sepsis in premature infants.

Background: Sepsis remains one of the leading causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly among premature infants. Blood culture is the 'gold standard' for the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis but is associated with several pitfalls. Aim of the work: We aim to evaluate the validity of measuring serum (S.Hep) and urinary hepcidin (U.Hep) concentrations as diagnostic biomarkers for late-onset sepsis (LOS) in preterm infants. Patients and Methods: The current case-control study included 73 cases of clinically and laboratory confirmed late-onset sepsis as the 'case group' and 50 nonseptic premature infants of comparable age and sex as the 'control group'. S.Hep and U.Hep concentrations were evaluated at enrollment (acute sample) and after 1 week of treatment (convalescent sample). Results: Patients had a statistically significant higher concentration of both S.Hep and U.Hep as compared with nonseptic controls (p = 0.0001). Similarly, a significant reduction of both S.Hep and U.Hep was detected after 1 week of treatment (p = 0.001). A cut-off value of ⩾ 94.8 ng/ml of S.Hep and ⩾ 264 ng/mg of U.Hep/urinary creatinine showed high sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value in the diagnosis of neonatal LOS. Conclusions: Both S.Hep and U.Hep can function as promising accurate and rapid surrogate tests for the diagnosis of LOS. U.Hep measurement has the advantage of being noninvasive, with no hazards of phlebotomy, and is less variable throughout the day.

Expression of TGF-ß and MMP-2 in hereditary gingival fibromatosis epithelial cells. A possible contribution of the epithelium to its pathogenesis.

Background: Although the molecular mechanisms that cause the development of hereditary gingival fibromatosis are not fully understood, multiple theories have been suggested to clarify its pathogenesis. However, the overlying keratinocytes' function is poorly comprehended. This work aimed to investigate the expression of TGF-ß and MMP-2 in hereditary gingival fibromatosis epithelial cells compared to the normal gingival epithelium to give an insight into the mechanism of the development of this condition. Methods: Biopsies were obtained from 20 hereditary gingival fibromatosis patients and 20 healthy controls. Biopsies were stained immunohistochemically and statistically analyzed for MMP-2 and TGF-ß expression. Results: Regarding MMP-2, The hereditary gingival fibromatosis group recorded a higher mean value compared to the normal gingiva, with a mean difference of 3.29 ± 0.34. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.00). Regarding TGF-ß, a higher mean value was recorded in the HGF group compared to the normal gingiva, with a mean difference of 15.88 ± 1.05 The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.00). A strong positive correlation was detected between MMP-2 and TGF-ß (R = 0.534, p = 0.015). Conclusions: In hereditary gingival fibromatosis, the epithelium expresses higher levels of TGF-ß and MMP-2 than normal gingival tissue. There was an evident positive correlation between MMP-2 and TGF-ß. Our data suggest that the expression of TGF-ß and MMP2 by epithelial cells of HGF may play a role in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathogenic pathway.

Cerebral sinuses thrombosis prior to the diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a child: A case report.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most common malignancy in children. In children, venous thromboembolism is relatively common. In most cases, venous thromboembolism manifests in patients who are diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Several risk factors associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia predispose patients to the development of venous thromboembolism. Unlike most reported cases of venous thromboembolism, herein we report a child who developed cerebral venous sinus thrombosis prior to the diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The patient recovered from an attack of acute gastroenteritis with sepsis, pancytopenia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation 2 weeks before the development of thrombosis. Her laboratory workup for coagulopathy and disseminated intravascular coagulation was normal at the time of diagnosis of cerebral sinus thrombosis. The genetic workup for thrombophilia risk identified several genetic thrombophilia mutations: the homozygous factor XIII V34L and MTHFR A1298C mutations and heterozygous factor V Leiden mutation. Three weeks later, the patient was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, it remains questionable whether the thrombotic event was caused by the previous infection of gastroenteritis, sepsis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation picture (which was augmented by her genetic thrombophilia risk), or was it caused by acute lymphoblastic leukemia (that was not detected at early stages with its associated hypercoagulable state), or was it caused by a type of paraneoplastic syndrome. A multifactorial etiology is proposed.

Granulomatous hepatitis in a Saudi child with IL2RA defect: a case report and literature review.

Interleukin-2 receptor alpha (IL2RA) defect (OMIM- # 606367) is an immune disease where affected patients are vulnerable to developing recurrent microbial infections in addition to lymphadenopathy and dermatological manifestations. This condition is known to be caused by pathogenic variants in the IL2RA gene, which are inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion. In this case report, we present a patient with IL2RA defect from Saudi Arabia who presented with chronic diarrhea, poor weight gain, mild villous atrophy, malnutrition, hepatomegaly, nonspecific inflammation, and an eczematous skin rash. His genetic analysis revealed a novel, homozygous, and likely pathogenic variant, that is, c.504 C>A (Cys168Ter), located in the exon 4of the IL2RA gene, which was inherited from his parents in an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. This variant produces a 272-amino-acid shorter IL2RA protein chain, which most likely becomes degraded in the cytosol. Thus, we assume that the c.504 C>A is a null allele that abolishes the synthesis of IL2RA, malforms the IL-2 receptor complex, and eventually causes immunodeficiency manifestations. To our knowledge, this is the first time a person with IL2RA defect has shown signs of granulomatous hepatitis on a liver biopsy.