Alineamiento comisural preciso durante el TAVI con ACURATE neo. Prueba de concepto / Accurate commissural alignment during ACURATE neo TAVI procedure. Proof of concept

Introducción y objetivos: La posición final de las neocomisuras en el implante percutáneo de válvula aórtica (TAVI) es aleatoria, lo que podría dificultar el acceso coronario y procedimientos futuros. Nuestro objetivo es desarrollar un método estandarizado para conseguir el alineamiento de las comisuras con ACURATE neo. Métodos: La relación entre las comisuras nativas y las neocomisuras de la válvula se analizó en 11 pacientes con estenosis aórtica grave sometidos a TAVI. Con base en la tomografía computarizada, se desarrolló un modelo in silico para predecir la posición final de los postes comisurales. A continuación, se desarrolló una técnica modificada de implante con alineamiento comisural adecuado (ACA) y un dispositivo específico para orientar el sistema de liberación. Por último, el implante de TAVI con alineamiento comisural se simuló en modelos impresos en 3D e in vivo. Se analizó el grado de mal alineamiento y de solapamiento coronario (SC). Resultados: El modelo in silico predijo con precisión la posición de los postes comisurales tanto para implantes convencionales (2) como aquellos con técnica de ACA (9) (coeficiente de correlación=0,994; IC95%, 0,989-0,998; p <0,001). El TAVI con una rotación del sistema específica para cada paciente se simuló con éxito en biomodelos y en 9 pacientes (mal alineamiento comisural medio in vivo, 7,7±3,9°). Ninguno de los implantes con técnica ACA presentó SC, mientras que la simulación in silico para los mismos casos pero mediante implante convencional predijo SC en 6 de los 9 casos. Conclusiones: El alineamiento comisural preciso del dispositivo ACURATE neo es factible mediante la inserción del sistema de liberación rotado específicamente para cada paciente basándose en el análisis de la tomografía computarizada. Este método sencillo y reproducible de alineamiento comisural podría utilizarse con todo tipo de dispositivos para TAVI (AU)

Introduction and objectives: Final position of the neo-commissures is uncontrolled during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), potentially hindering coronary access and future procedures. We aimed to develop a standard method to achieve commissural alignment with the ACURATE neo valve. Methods: The relationship between native and TAVI neo-commissures was analyzed in 11 severe aortic stenosis patients undergoing TAVI. Based on computed tomography analysis, an in silico model was developed to predict final TAVI commissural posts position. A modified implantation technique, accurate commissural alignment (ACA) and a dedicated delivery system were developed. TAVI implants were tested in 3-dimensional (3D) printed models and in vivo. Commissural misalignment and coronary overlap (CO) were analyzed. Results: The in silico model accurately predicted final position of commissural posts irrespective of the implantation technique performed (correlation coefficient, 0.994; 95%CI, 0.989-0.998; P<.001). TAVI implant with patient-specific rotation was simulated in 3D printed models and in 9 patients. ACA-oriented TAVI implants presented adequate commissural alignment in vivo (mean commissural misalignment of 7.7 ±3.9°). None of the ACA oriented implants showed CO, whereas in silico conventional implants predicted CO in 6 of the 9 cases. Conclusions: Accurate commissural alignment of the ACURATE neo device is feasible by inserting the delivery system with a patient-specific rotation based on computed tomography analysis. This is a simple and reproducible method for commissural alignment that can be potentially used for all kinds of TAVI devices (AU)

Validación de la versión española de la Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) / Validation of the Spanish version of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS)

Introducción y objetivos: La Charcot-Marie-Tooth Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) es una herramienta validada y sensible al cambio para evaluar la gravedad de la neuropatía en niños y adolescentes entre 3 y 20 años. El objetivo de este artículo es traducir y validar una versión española de la CMTPedS para difundir su utilización en países de habla hispana. Material y métodos: El proceso para la traducción al español de la CMTPedS ha sido el método de traducción paralela invertida basado en los principios de buena práctica para la traducción y el proceso de adaptación cultural de las Food and Drug Administration Guidelines. Se realizó primero una traducción directa de la fuente original de la CMTPedS al español que fue revisada por expertos en la enfermedad de Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) formados en la utilización de la herramienta CMTPedS. La versión española fue traducida de nuevo al inglés por un lingüista especialista de la traducción. Resultados: La versión preliminar en español de la CMTPedS se evaluó en 18 niños con CMT entre 6 y 20 años (media: 13,27). La escala fue bien tolerada y fácil de comprender en los niños y fácil de aplicar para los clínicos. Ningún paciente tuvo dificultad en completar la escala.Conclusiones: La versión española de la CMTPedS se puede utilizar para el seguimiento y la realización de ensayos clínicos en población española y países de habla hispana.(AU)

Introduction and aims: The Charcot-Marie-Tooth Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) is a validated and change-sensitive tool for assessing the severity of neuropathy in children and adolescents between 3 and 20 years of age. The aim of this article is to translate and validate a Spanish version of the CMTPedS in order to disseminate its use in Spanish-speaking countries. Materials and methods: The process used to translate the CMTPedS into Spanish was the reverse parallel translation method based on the principles of good practice for translation and the cultural adaptation process of the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines. A direct translation of the original source of the CMTPedS into Spanish was performed first and reviewed by experts in Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease trained in the use of the CMTPedS tool. The Spanish version was then translated back into English by a linguist specialised in translation. Results: The preliminary Spanish version of the CMTPedS was evaluated in 18 children with CMT aged 6-20 years (mean: 13.27). The scale was well tolerated and easy for children to understand and easy for clinicians to apply. None of the patients had any difficulty completing the scale. Conclusions: The Spanish version of the CMTPedS can be used for monitoring and conducting clinical trials in the Spanish population and in Spanish-speaking countries.(AU)

[Validation of the Spanish version of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS)]. / Validación de la versión española de la Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS).

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: The Charcot-Marie-Tooth Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) is a validated and change-sensitive tool for assessing the severity of neuropathy in children and adolescents between 3 and 20 years of age. The aim of this article is to translate and validate a Spanish version of the CMTPedS in order to disseminate its use in Spanish-speaking countries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The process used to translate the CMTPedS into Spanish was the reverse parallel translation method based on the principles of good practice for translation and the cultural adaptation process of the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines. A direct translation of the original source of the CMTPedS into Spanish was performed first and reviewed by experts in Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease trained in the use of the CMTPedS tool. The Spanish version was then translated back into English by a linguist specialised in translation. RESULTS: The preliminary Spanish version of the CMTPedS was evaluated in 18 children with CMT aged 6-20 years (mean: 13.27). The scale was well tolerated and easy for children to understand and easy for clinicians to apply. None of the patients had any difficulty completing the scale. CONCLUSIONS: The Spanish version of the CMTPedS can be used for monitoring and conducting clinical trials in the Spanish population and in Spanish-speaking countries.

TITLE: Validación de la versión española de la Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS).Introducción y objetivos. La Charcot-Marie-Tooth Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) es una herramienta validada y sensible al cambio para evaluar la gravedad de la neuropatía en niños y adolescentes entre 3 y 20 años. El objetivo de este artículo es traducir y validar una versión española de la CMTPedS para difundir su utilización en países de habla hispana. Material y métodos. El proceso para la traducción al español de la CMTPedS ha sido el método de traducción paralela invertida basado en los principios de buena práctica para la traducción y el proceso de adaptación cultural de las Food and Drug Administration Guidelines. Se realizó primero una traducción directa de la fuente original de la CMTPedS al español que fue revisada por expertos en la enfermedad de Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) formados en la utilización de la herramienta CMTPedS. La versión española fue traducida de nuevo al inglés por un lingüista especialista de la traducción. Resultados. La versión preliminar en español de la CMTPedS se evaluó en 18 niños con CMT entre 6 y 20 años (media: 13,27). La escala fue bien tolerada y fácil de comprender en los niños y fácil de aplicar para los clínicos. Ningún paciente tuvo dificultad en completar la escala. Conclusiones. La versión española de la CMTPedS se puede utilizar para el seguimiento y la realización de ensayos clínicos en población española y países de habla hispana.

Bi-allelic mutations in EGR2 cause autosomal recessive demyelinating neuropathy by disrupting the EGR2-NAB complex.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Mutations in the early growth response 2 gene (EGR2) cause demyelinating, but also axonal, neuropathies differing in severity and age of onset. Except for one family, all reported cases have autosomal dominant inheritance and mutations are localized within the three zinc finger (ZNF) DNA-binding domain. The aim of this study was to provide a clinical and molecular analysis of a novel recessive mutation in EGR2. METHODS: Clinical and electrophysiological assessments of three affected patients, from a consanguineous family, were performed. Genetic analyses of EGR2 were carried out by Sanger sequencing. Functional effects of clinical recessive mutations were assessed using a mammalian two-hybrid assay. RESULTS: A novel missense mutation (c.791C>T; p.P264L) in the homozygous state was detected outside the ZNF domains of the EGR2 gene. Three affected siblings presented with distal demyelinating polyneuropathy with severe sensory loss, progressive thoracolumbar scoliosis and trigeminal neuralgia. Respiratory compromise and cranial nerve dysfunction were also found. Our data indicate that the p.P264L mutation prevents interaction of EGR2 transcription factor with NAB corepressors, suggesting that a disruption of the NAB-EGR2 protein interactions can result in dramatic neuropathy. CONCLUSION: Mutations in, or next to, the R1 domain of EGR2 should be considered with extreme caution for genetic counseling, since these could cause a severe neuropathy with an autosomal recessive manner of transmission.

Clinical spectrum of BICD2 mutations.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Mutations in the BICD2 gene cause autosomal dominant lower extremity-predominant spinal muscular atrophy 2A (SMALED2A), a condition that is associated with a specific pattern of thigh and calf muscle involvement when studied by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patients may present minor clinical sensory impairment, but objective sensory involvement has yet to be demonstrated. METHODS: We collected clinical data from 11 patients from five different families carrying mutations in BICD2. Genetic diagnosis was achieved using gene panel testing and skin biopsies were taken from two patients to study the epidermal nerve fiber density. RESULTS: In the studied patients, three new pathogenic mutations were detected as well as the already defined pathogenic p.Ser107Leu mutation. The most frequent clinical picture was characterized by lower-limb weakness in combination with foot deformities. One patient manifested clinical and electrophysiological sensory impairment, and the epidermal nerve fiber density study of another patient revealed the existence of a small-fiber neuropathy. Muscle MRI showed a common pattern of fat deposition including selective involvement of gluteus medius and minimus at the pelvic level, the anterior compartment of the thigh and the posterior compartment of the calf, with only mild or no involvement of the intrinsic foot muscles. CONCLUSIONS: We report three new pathogenic mutations in the BICD2 gene. Muscle MRI confirms the existence of a selective pattern of thigh and leg muscle involvement in SMALED2A, providing additional information regarding pelvic and foot muscles. Moreover, our results raise the possibility of sensory involvement in the disease.

New insights into the pathophysiology of fasciculations in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: An ultrasound study.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the fasciculation pattern in ALS and to analyse its clinical and pathophysiological significance. METHODS: Ultrasound of 19 muscles was performed in 44 patients with a recent diagnosis (<90 days) of ALS. The number of fasciculations was recorded in each muscle and the muscle thickness and strength were additionally measured in limb muscles. A subgroup of patients were electromyographically assessed. RESULTS: US was performed in 835 muscles and EMG was available in 263 muscles. US detected fasciculations more frequently than EMG. Fasciculations were widespread, especially in upper limbs onset patients and in the cervical region. Fasciculations' number inversely associated with ALSFR-R and body mass index (BMI) and directly with BMI loss and upper motor neuron (UMN) impairment. Our statistical model suggest that fasciculations increase with the initial lower motor neuron (LMN) degeneration, reach their peak when the muscle became mildly to moderately weak, decreasing afterwards with increasing muscle weakness and atrophy. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that both UMN and LMN degeneration trigger fasciculations causing BMI loss. The degree of LMN impairment could account for differences in fasciculations' rates within and between muscles. SIGNIFICANCE: In ALS, fasciculations could explain the link between hyperexcitability and BMI loss.

The EGR2 gene is involved in axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: A three-generation family affected by axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) was investigated with the aim of discovering genetic defects and to further characterize the phenotype. METHODS: The clinical, nerve conduction studies and muscle magnetic resonance images of the patients were reviewed. A whole exome sequencing was performed and the changes were investigated by genetic studies, in silico analysis and luciferase reporter assays. RESULTS: A novel c.1226G>A change (p.R409Q) in the EGR2 gene was identified. Patients presented with a typical, late-onset axonal CMT phenotype with variable severity that was confirmed in the ancillary tests. The in silico studies showed that the residue R409 is an evolutionary conserved amino acid. The p.R409Q mutation, which is predicted as probably damaging, would alter the conformation of the protein slightly and would cause a decrease of gene expression. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of an EGR2 mutation presenting as an axonal CMT phenotype with variable severity. This study broadens the phenotype of the EGR2-related neuropathies and suggests that the genetic testing of patients suffering from axonal CMT should include the EGR2 gene.

Psicosis epiléptica periictal, una causa de psicosis reversible / Epileptic peri-ictal psychosis, a reversible cause of psychosis

Introducción: Las psicosis epilépticas se dividen respecto de su relación con las crisis en periictales e interictales. Las psicosis periictales tienen una estrecha relación temporal con las crisis epilépticas y ocurren antes (preictales), durante (ictales) o después de las mismas (postictales). Generalmente, tienen un inicio y final agudo, corta duración y una remisión completa, con riesgo de recurrencia. Las psicosis interictales o crónicas no guardan relación temporal con las crisis epilépticas. Existe otro tipo de psicosis epilépticas que se relaciona con la respuesta al tratamiento de la epilepsia: psicosis epiléptica por fenómeno de normalización forzada (psicosis alternativa) y dentro de esta se encuentra la psicosis epiléptica secundaria a cirugía de la epilepsia. Aunque se ha generalizado la combinación de antiepilépticos y neurolépticos para su manejo, no existen unas pautas estandarizadas de tratamiento en las psicosis epilépticas. Casos clínicos: Presentamos 5 casos de psicosis epilépticas periictales y remarcamos la excelente respuesta al tratamiento con levetiracetam. Consiguiendo un buen control tanto de las crisis como de los episodios psicóticos. Este fármaco resultó inocuo al asociarlo con neurolépticos en nuestros pacientes y no se precisaron dosis elevadas de estos últimos. Conclusiones: La diferenciación de los estados psicóticos asociados con la epilepsia según la relación temporal con las crisis epilépticas tiene utilidad clínica y pronóstica, dado que aporta aspectos importantes respecto al tratamiento y a la evolución de la enfermedad. El tratamiento de los trastornos mentales periictales o agudos se basa en el control de las crisis epilépticas, mientras que el tratamiento de los interictales o crónicos guarda más similitud con el de los trastornos de origen puramente psiquiátrico. El control estricto de las crisis puede, además de mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente y su discapacidad, prevenir el desarrollo de una psicosis interictal, por lo que consideramos que sería necesario establecer un protocolo de tratamiento para estos casos (AU)

Introduction: Epileptic psychoses are categorised as peri-ictal and interictal according to their relationship with the occurrence of seizures. There is a close temporal relationship between peri-ictal psychosis and seizures, and psychosis may present before (preictal), during (ictal) or after seizures (postictal). Epileptic psychoses usually have acute initial and final phases, with a short symptom duration and complete remission with a risk of recurrence. There is no temporal relationship between interictal or chronic psychosis and epileptic seizures. Another type of epileptic psychosis is related to the response to epilepsy treatment: epileptic psychosis caused by the phenomenon of forced normalisation (alternative psychosis), which includes epileptic psychosis secondary to epilepsy surgery. Although combination treatment with antiepileptic and neuroleptic drugs is now widely used to manage this condition, there are no standard treatment guidelines for epileptic psychosis. Clinical cases: We present 5 cases of peri-ictal epileptic psychosis in which we observed an excellent response to treatment with levetiracetam. Good control was achieved over both seizures and psychotic episodes. Levetiracetam was used in association with neuroleptic drugs with no adverse effects, and our patients did not require high doses of the latter. Conclusions: Categorising psychotic states associated with epilepsy according to their temporal relationship with seizures is clinically and prognostically useful because it provides important information regarding disease treatment and progression. The treatment of peri-ictal or acute mental disorders is based on epileptic seizure control, while the treatment of interictal or chronic disorders has more in common with managing disorders which are purely psychiatric in origin. In addition to improving the patient’s quality of life and reducing disability, achieving strict control over seizures may also prevent the development of interictal psychosis. For this reason, we believe that establishing a treatment protocol for such cases is necessary (AU)

Genetics of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease in the Spanish Gypsy population: the hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy-Russe in depth.

Four private mutations responsible for three forms demyelinating of Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) or hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN) have been associated with the Gypsy population: the NDRG1 p.R148X in CMT type 4D (CMT4D/HMSN-Lom); p.C737_P738delinsX and p.R1109X mutations in the SH3TC2 gene (CMT4C); and a G>C change in a novel alternative untranslated exon in the HK1 gene causative of CMT4G (CMT4G/HMSN-Russe). Here we address the findings of a genetic study of 29 Gypsy Spanish families with autosomal recessive demyelinating CMT. The most frequent form is CMT4C (57.14%), followed by HMSN-Russe (25%) and HMSN-Lom (17.86%). The relevant frequency of HMSN-Russe has allowed us to investigate in depth the genetics and the associated clinical symptoms of this CMT form. HMSN-Russe probands share the same haplotype confirming that the HK1 g.9712G>C is a founder mutation, which arrived in Spain around the end of the 18th century. The clinical picture of HMSN-Russe is a progressive CMT disorder leading to severe weakness of the lower limbs and prominent distal sensory loss. Motor nerve conduction velocity was in the demyelinating or intermediate range.

Epileptic peri-ictal psychosis, a reversible cause of psychosis.

INTRODUCTION: Epileptic psychoses are categorised as peri-ictal and interictal according to their relationship with the occurrence of seizures. There is a close temporal relationship between peri-ictal psychosis and seizures, and psychosis may present before (preictal), during (ictal) or after seizures (postictal). Epileptic psychoses usually have acute initial and final phases, with a short symptom duration and complete remission with a risk of recurrence. There is no temporal relationship between interictal or chronic psychosis and epileptic seizures. Another type of epileptic psychosis is related to the response to epilepsy treatment: epileptic psychosis caused by the phenomenon of forced normalisation (alternative psychosis), which includes epileptic psychosis secondary to epilepsy surgery. Although combination treatment with antiepileptic and neuroleptic drugs is now widely used to manage this condition, there are no standard treatment guidelines for epileptic psychosis. CLINICAL CASES: We present 5 cases of peri-ictal epileptic psychosis in which we observed an excellent response to treatment with levetiracetam. Good control was achieved over both seizures and psychotic episodes. Levetiracetam was used in association with neuroleptic drugs with no adverse effects, and our patients did not require high doses of the latter. CONCLUSIONS: Categorising psychotic states associated with epilepsy according to their temporal relationship with seizures is clinically and prognostically useful because it provides important information regarding disease treatment and progression. The treatment of peri-ictal or acute mental disorders is based on epileptic seizure control, while the treatment of interictal or chronic disorders has more in common with managing disorders which are purely psychiatric in origin. In addition to improving the patient's quality of life and reducing disability, achieving strict control over seizures may also prevent the development of interictal psychosis. For this reason, we believe that establishing a treatment protocol for such cases is necessary.

Guía diagnóstica en el paciente con enfermedad de Charcot-Marie-Tooth / Guidelines for molecular diagnosis of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Introducción: La enfermedad de Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) es la neuropatía hereditaria más frecuente. Clásicamente dividida según su patrón de herencia y de alteración de la velocidad de conducción motora (VCM) del nervio mediano, CMT incluye cinco grandes categorías: CMT1 (herencia autosómica dominante [AD] o ligada al sexo, y VCM < 38 m/s); CMT2 (herencia AD o ligada al sexo y VCM > 38 m/s); CMT4 (herencia autosómica recesiva [AR] y VCM muy lentificada); AR-CMT2 (forma recesiva con VCM > 38 m/s), y DI-CMT (forma intermedia con herencia AD y VCM entre 30 y 40 m/s). Pese a su estereotipado cuadro clínico (básicamente, semiología polineuropática sensitivo-motora y pie cavo), CMT ha resultado ser uno de los síndromes neurodegenerativos genéticamente más complejos, con 31 genes patogénicos clonados.Desarrollo: El objetivo de esta guía es efectuar una revisión nosológica de la enfermedad de CMT, con énfasis en las directrices para llevar a cabo el diagnóstico molecular. A tal fin, revisamos los estudios de epidemiología y genética, y los genotipos descritos en España. Conclusiones: En la inmensa mayoría de los pacientes con CMT, las mutaciones recaen en un reducido número de genes: para CMT1, PMP22, GJB1 y MPZ; para CMT2, MFN2 y GJB1; para CMT4, GDAP1, y NDRG1, HK1 y SH3TC2 (sujetos de etnia gitana); para AR-CMT2, GDAP1, y para DI-CMT, GJB1 y MPZ. Por su baja prevalencia, las mutaciones en otros genes sólo deberían investigarse cuando las anteriores han sido descartadas. Se desaconseja el uso indiscriminado de paneles de múltiples genes para el diagnóstico molecular de la enfermedad (AU)

Introduction: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is the most frequent form of inherited neuropathy. In accordance with the inheritance pattern and degree of slowing of motor conduction velocity (MCV) of the median nerve, CMT encompasses five main forms: CMT1 (autosomal dominant [AD] or X-linked transmission and MCV < 38 m/s); CMT2 (AD or X-linked transmission and MCV > 38 m/s); CMT4 (autosomal recessive [AR] and severe slowing of MCV); AR-CMT2 (AR transmission and MCV > 38 m/s); and DI-CMT (intermediate form with AD transmission and MCV between 30 and 40 m/s). In spite of its stereotyped semiological repertoire (basically, symptoms and signs of sensory-motor polyneuropathy and pes cavus), CMT seems to be one of the most complex hereditary neurodegenerative syndromes, 31 causative genes having been cloned.Development: This paper is aimed at performing a nosological review of the disease, emphasising the guidelines for its molecular diagnosis. Genetic epidemiological studies and genotypes reported in Spanish patients are revised.Conclusions: In the great majority of CMT cases, mutations involve a reduced number of genes, namely: for CMT1, PMP22, GJB1 and MPZ; for CMT2, MFN2 and GJB1; for CMT4, GDAP1, and NDRG1, HK1 and SH3TC2 (gypsies); for AR-CMT2, GDAP1; and for DI-CMT, GJB1 and MPZ. Given their low prevalence, mutations in other pathogenic genes should be investigated after discarding the previous ones. There is no place for the indiscriminate use of diagnostic CMT genetic panels (AU)

Autoimmunity as a prognostic factor in sporadic adult onset cerebellar ataxia.

Cerebellar adult onset ataxia is a heterogeneous condition. The aim of this study was to ascertain if there is a heightened autoimmune background in patients with sporadic cerebellar ataxia of unknown origin, and if autoimmunity correlates with a more rapid evolution of the ataxia. We selected patients with sporadic progressive adult onset cerebellar ataxia with a follow-up of >5 years. As controls we included 43 patients with genetically demonstrated hereditary ataxia. All patients were tested for a panel of neuronal (onconeuronal, glutamate-decarboxylase [GAD], IgG/IgA transglutaminase 6 antibodies) and systemic non-neuronal antibodies (including IgG/IgA gliadin and transglutaminase 2, thyroperoxidase, thyroglobulin, antinuclear, striational, smooth muscle, mitochondrial, liver kidney microsomal, and parietal gastric cells antibodies). Correlation between the antibodies and disease progression was studied with Cox regression models and Kaplan-Meier plots. Forty-four patients were included. All patients were negative for onconeuronal or GAD antibodies. There were no significant differences between patients and controls in the prevalence of transglutaminase 6, 2, gliadin, or thyroid antibodies. However, when we studied the panel of systemic non-neuronal autoantibodies as a group, antibodies were more frequent in patients with sporadic ataxia (p = 0.018). The presence of one or more systemic non-neuronal antibodies correlated with a faster evolution to stage 2 (loss of independent gait) (p = 0.03) and shorter survival (p = 0.03) in patients with sporadic ataxia. We conclude that there is probably a heightened autoimmune background in some patients with sporadic cerebellar ataxia of unknown origin. The presence of systemic non-neuronal autoantibodies is a prognostic marker.

Spanish MYH7 founder mutation of Italian ancestry causing a large cluster of Laing myopathy patients.

Laing myopathy is a distal myopathy caused by mutations in the tail of the slow beta-myosin heavy chain gene MYH7. A large cluster of patients belonging to different families, with Laing myopathy due to p.K1729del mutation, was found in the Safor region, Spain. The same mutation was previously reported in an American family with Italian ancestry. The possibility that p.K1729del in MYH7 might be a founder mutation in the Safor patients and the chance of a common origin with the Italian-American family mutation was investigated by haplotype analyses, mutation data origin estimation and historical inquiry. Our results show that the p.K1729del in MYH7 harboured by patients from the Safor indeed is a founder mutation. A common ancestral origin of this mutation in the Spanish and Italian families is also suggested because they all share a core SNP haplotype at locus MYH7. Data estimation yields the origin of the mutation in the Safor at the beginning of the XVII century, when the Moorish were spelt and the region was resettled with Italian families.

[Guidelines for molecular diagnosis of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease]. / Guía diagnóstica en el paciente con enfermedad de Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

INTRODUCTION: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is the most frequent form of inherited neuropathy. In accordance with the inheritance pattern and degree of slowing of motor conduction velocity (MCV) of the median nerve, CMT encompasses five main forms: CMT1 (autosomal dominant [AD] or X-linked transmission and MCV < 38 m/s); CMT2 (AD or X-linked transmission and MCV > 38 m/s); CMT4 (autosomal recessive [AR] and severe slowing of MCV); AR-CMT2 (AR transmission and MCV > 38 m/s); and DI-CMT (intermediate form with AD transmission and MCV between 30 and 40 m/s). In spite of its stereotyped semiological repertoire (basically, symptoms and signs of sensory-motor polyneuropathy and pes cavus), CMT seems to be one of the most complex hereditary neurodegenerative syndromes, 31 causative genes having been cloned. DEVELOPMENT: This paper is aimed at performing a nosological review of the disease, emphasising the guidelines for its molecular diagnosis. Genetic epidemiological studies and genotypes reported in Spanish patients are revised. CONCLUSIONS: In the great majority of CMT cases, mutations involve a reduced number of genes, namely: for CMT1, PMP22, GJB1 and MPZ; for CMT2, MFN2 and GJB1; for CMT4, GDAP1, and NDRG1, HK1 and SH3TC2 (gypsies); for AR-CMT2, GDAP1; and for DI-CMT, GJB1 and MPZ. Given their low prevalence, mutations in other pathogenic genes should be investigated after discarding the previous ones. There is no place for the indiscriminate use of diagnostic CMT genetic panels.

Síndrome de fatiga crónica: estudio de una serie consecutiva de 824 casos evaluados en dos unidades especializadas / Chronic fatigue syndrome: study of a consecutive series of 824 cases assessed in two specialized units

Fundamento y objetivo. El síndrome de fatiga crónica (SFC) condiciona una importante limitación funcional. En nuestro medio se disponen de escasos estudios sobre las características del SFC, por lo que se inició el estudio de una serie consecutiva de casos diagnosticados en dos unidades especializadas. Pacientes y método. Se han incluido todos los pacientes con SFC atendidos desde enero de 2008 hasta junio de 2010. Se analizaron datos sociodemográficos y laborales, tiempo desde el inicio, factores desencadenantes y forma de inicio, criterios diagnósticos de Fukuda y canadienses, los fenómenos comórbidos y el tratamiento. Resultados. Se incluyeron 824 pacientes, 748 (91%) mujeres, con una edad media de 48±9 años. La edad media de inicio de los síntomas fue de 35±11 años, el tiempo transcurrido hasta el diagnóstico fue de 108±88 meses. En 481 pacientes (58%) se identificó un factor desencadenante y en 517 (63%) el inicio fue gradual. En 515 (62,5%) pacientes la enfermedad estaba inactiva. Entre los criterios diagnósticos de Fukuda destacó la fatiga postejercicio físico, el sueño no reparador y las alteraciones en la concentración y memoria inmediata. Los bloques sintomáticos de los criterios canadienses mostraron la uniformidad de los síntomas. Los fenómenos comórbidos acompañantes fueron: ansiedad 691 (84%), síndrome seco 678 (82%) y fibromialgia 450 (55%). Realizaban tratamiento farmacológico 520 (63%) pacientes. Conclusiones. El SFC afecta preferentemente a mujeres jóvenes, condiciona importante ausentismo laboral. Entre los criterios diagnósticos destacó la intolerancia al ejercicio físico, la disfunción neurocognitiva y el sueño no reparador. En la valoración del paciente, es muy importante la aplicación de los criterios canadienses y estudiar la comorbilidad(AU)

Background and objective. The chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disabling disorder. Few studies are available in our area on the prevalence and characteristics of CFS. Therefore, we carried out a study of a consecutive series of 824 cases diagnosed in two specialized units. Patients and methods. We evaluated all of the CFS patients seen from January 2008 to June 2010. We analyzed social and demographic data, employment status, time of clinical evolution, trigger factors and onset, Fukuda and Canadian criteria, associated comorbidities and treatment. Results. A total of 824 patients were included, 748 (91%) woman, mean age 48±9 years. Average age of onset of symptoms was 35±11 years, time to diagnosis 108±88 month. A precipitating factor was identified in 481 (58%) patients, the onset was gradual in 517 (63%) and 515 (62.5%) were not employed. The most outstanding diagnostic criteria of Fukuda were prolonged generalized fatigue after exercise, sleep disturbance and impairments in concentration and short-term memory. The different groups of symptoms defined by the Canadian consensus showed that CFS is a homogeneous entity. Accompanying comorbidity phenomena were anxiety 691 (83%), sicca syndrome 678 (82%), fibromyalgia 450 (55%). A total of 63% of patients (520) received pharmacological treatment. Conclusions. CFS is an illness that preferentially affects young women and results in employment absenteeism. The most relevant clinical features were prolonged generalized fatigue after exercise, neurocognitive impairment and sleep disturbance. In the evaluation of the patient, it is very important to apply the Canadian criteria and to assess comorbidity(AU)

[Chronic fatigue syndrome: study of a consecutive series of 824 cases assessed in two specialized units]. / Síndrome de fatiga crónica: estudio de una serie consecutiva de 824 casos evaluados en dos unidades especializadas.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disabling disorder. Few studies are available in our area on the prevalence and characteristics of CFS. Therefore, we carried out a study of a consecutive series of 824 cases diagnosed in two specialized units. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We evaluated all of the CFS patients seen from January 2008 to June 2010. We analyzed social and demographic data, employment status, time of clinical evolution, trigger factors and onset, Fukuda and Canadian criteria, associated comorbidities and treatment. RESULTS: A total of 824 patients were included, 748 (91%) woman, mean age 48±9 years. Average age of onset of symptoms was 35±11 years, time to diagnosis 108±88 month. A precipitating factor was identified in 481 (58%) patients, the onset was gradual in 517 (63%) and 515 (62.5%) were not employed. The most outstanding diagnostic criteria of Fukuda were prolonged generalized fatigue after exercise, sleep disturbance and impairments in concentration and short-term memory. The different groups of symptoms defined by the Canadian consensus showed that CFS is a homogeneous entity. Accompanying comorbidity phenomena were anxiety 691 (83%), sicca syndrome 678 (82%), fibromyalgia 450 (55%). A total of 63% of patients (520) received pharmacological treatment. CONCLUSIONS: CFS is an illness that preferentially affects young women and results in employment absenteeism. The most relevant clinical features were prolonged generalized fatigue after exercise, neurocognitive impairment and sleep disturbance. In the evaluation of the patient, it is very important to apply the Canadian criteria and to assess comorbidity.

Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability: a clinical and immunologic study of 38 patients.

OBJECTIVE: We studied a case series of peripheral nerve hyperexcitability (PNH) aiming to describe clinical characteristics, immunologic and cancer associations, antibodies against neuronal antigens (voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies [VGKC-Abs] and other), and muscle biopsy findings. METHODS: Patients presenting with clinical and electrophysiologic signs of PNH were selected. We studied clinical and electrophysiologic features; a panel of non-neuronal organ-specific antibodies, immunofluorescence on rat nervous tissues, and radioimmunoprecipitation for VGKC-Abs; and muscle biopsies. RESULTS: Thirty-eight patients were included. After the exclusion of 6 cases with axonopathy of known origin, patients were subdivided according to the presence of electrophysiologic findings of motor axonopathy and association with cancer: axonopathic-PNH (group A: 12 patients), isolated nonparaneoplastic PNH (group B: 16 patients), and isolated paraneoplastic PNH (3 with thymoma and myasthenia gravis, 1 with thyroid carcinoma). PNH clinical features were similar in groups A and B. We found an overall high prevalence of clinical autoimmunity (33% of group A and 63% of group B) and systemic non-neuronal autoantibodies (42% of group A and 75% of group B). However, VGKC-Abs were only positive in 2 patients of group B. Ten patients underwent muscle biopsy, which showed inflammatory changes in 2 cases and nonspecific myopathic features in 8. CONCLUSIONS: PNH is a heterogeneous disorder involving the peripheral nerves in patients with a high propensity for developing autoimmunity. Associated muscle diseases are frequent in the form of myositis, myasthenia gravis, or nonspecific myopathic pathologic findings. VGKC-Abs were uncommon in this series.