Unveiling the Role of Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A (PAPP-A) in Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review.

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) presents unique challenges due to its occurrence during or shortly after pregnancy. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) has emerged as a potential biomarker and regulator in PABC. This comprehensive review examines the role of PAPP-A in PABC, highlighting its involvement in tissue remodeling and cancer progression. Molecular mechanisms linking PAPP-A to breast cancer, including signaling pathways and interactions with other molecules, are explored. The review also discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of PAPP-A dysregulation in PABC, emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and develop targeted therapies. Collaborative efforts among researchers, clinicians, and industry stakeholders are essential for translating findings into clinically relevant interventions to improve outcomes for PABC patients.

National study on the risks of COVID-19 infection for paediatric kidney transplant recipients: a retrospective, cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence emerged that immunosuppressed children were less affected by COVID-19 infections compared with immunosuppressed adults. The aim of our study was to investigate how COVID-19 infections affected paediatric kidney transplant recipients (pKTR) in the UK. METHODS: Questionnaires regarding COVID-19 infection data and care of pKTR during the COVID-19 pandemic were sent to all 13 UK paediatric nephrology centres examining asymptomatic and symptomatic pKTR with positive COVID-19 PCR testing from 1 April 2020 to 1 December 2021. RESULTS: 63 pKTR who were 3.1 (range 0.1-15) years post-transplantation had COVID-19 infection with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR RNA. Classical COVID-19 symptoms were present in half of the patients; with atypical presentations including diarrhoea (13%) and lethargy (13%) also noted, while a third of patients were asymptomatic. Eighteen patients (28%) were hospitalised including five asymptomatic patients admitted for other reasons. No patients needed ventilation or intensive care admission, and one patient received supplemental oxygen. There was evidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in 71% of patients, but no patients needed kidney replacement therapy with haemofiltration or dialysis. CONCLUSION: We report 10.4% of the UK paediatric renal transplantation population had documented COVID-19 infections with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR RNA with 28% of those affected requiring hospitalisation. The increased incidence of AKI, particularly after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, was possibly due to increased testing. There was low morbidity and mortality compared with the adult population.

Unveiling the Diagnostic Potential: A Comprehensive Review of Bronchoalveolar Lavage in Interstitial Lung Disease.

This comprehensive review examines the diagnostic potential of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in interstitial lung disease (ILD), emphasizing its accuracy and significance in various ILDs, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), sarcoidosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and connective tissue disease-associated ILD. The analysis underscores the importance of abnormalities in both cellular and non-cellular components of BAL fluid for precise ILD diagnosis. Recommendations advocate for the integration of BAL into clinical guidelines, a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach, and further standardization of procedures. Looking toward the future, ongoing research highlights technological advancements, biomarker discovery, and the integration of artificial intelligence in BAL interpretation. These developments not only promise to enhance ILD diagnosis but also offer prospects for a more personalized approach to patient management based on insightful patient stratification guided by BAL findings. This abstract encapsulates the key findings, recommendations, and future prospects identified in the review, providing a concise overview of the diagnostic potential of BAL in ILD.

A pragmatic, open-label, randomized controlled trial of Plasma-Lyte-148 versus standard intravenous fluids in children receiving kidney transplants (PLUTO).

Acute electrolyte and acid-base imbalance is experienced by many children following kidney transplant. This is partly because doctors give very large volumes of artificial fluids to keep the new kidney working. When severe, fluid imbalance can lead to seizures, cerebral edema and death. In this pragmatic, open-label, randomized controlled trial, we randomly assigned (1:1) pediatric kidney transplant recipients to Plasma-Lyte-148 or standard of care perioperative intravenous fluids (predominantly 0.45% sodium chloride and 0.9% sodium chloride solutions). We then compared clinically significant electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities in the first 72 hours post-transplant. The primary outcome, acute hyponatremia, was experienced by 53% of 68 participants in the Plasma-Lyte-148 group and 58% of 69 participants in the standard fluids group (odds ratio 0·77 (0·34 - 1·75)). Five of 16 secondary outcomes differed with Plasma-Lyte-148: hypernatremia was significantly more frequent (odds ratio 3·5 (1·1 - 10·8)), significantly fewer changes to fluid prescriptions were made (rate ratio 0·52 (0·40-0·67)), and significantly fewer participants experienced hyperchloremia (odds ratio 0·17 (0·07 - 0·40)), acidosis (odds ratio 0·09 (0·04 - 0·22)) and hypomagnesemia (odds ratio 0·21 (0·08 - 0·50)). No other secondary outcomes differed between groups. Serious adverse events were reported in 9% of participants randomized to Plasma-Lyte-148 and 7% of participants randomized to standard fluids. Thus, perioperative Plasma-Lyte-148 did not change the proportion of children who experienced acute hyponatremia compared to standard fluids. However fewer fluid prescription changes were made with Plasma-Lyte-148, while hyperchloremia and acidosis were less common.

Exploring Melatonin's Multifaceted Role in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Management: A Comprehensive Review.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting a significant portion of the female population, characterized by hormonal imbalances, oxidative stress, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders. This review explores the multifaceted role of melatonin, a hormone primarily known for regulating circadian rhythms, in PCOS management. Melatonin's potential impact on hormonal balance, oxidative stress, sleep quality, and mood is comprehensively examined. It has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, regulate sex hormones, and influence gonadotropins, offering promise in addressing the intricate hormonal imbalances common in PCOS. As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, melatonin mitigates oxidative stress and its associated complications. Its role in improving sleep quality and mood can significantly enhance the psychological well-being and daily functioning of PCOS patients. We discuss the potential implications of melatonin as a complementary or adjunct therapy, alongside existing PCOS treatments, and its significance in improving the overall quality of life for individuals with this syndrome. While further research is needed, melatonin's multifaceted effects promise a brighter future for PCOS patients.

Retained Intrauterine Fetal Bone Fragments Causing Secondary Infertility: A Review.

Retained intrauterine fetal bone fragments are emerging as a potential yet often overlooked cause of secondary infertility, posing significant challenges for couples who have previously experienced successful pregnancies. This review article explores the association between retained fetal bone fragments and secondary infertility by delving into their impact on fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and diagnostic challenges. The review highlights the underlying mechanisms of fragment retention, including immune response and inflammation, and their detrimental effects on endometrial receptivity and implantation. The diagnostic difficulties and importance of specialized imaging techniques like hysteroscopy for accurate diagnosis are also discussed. The article also provides insights into available treatment options, such as medical management and surgical interventions, focusing on hysteroscopy as the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment. The implications for clinical practice emphasize early diagnosis and intervention to improve fertility outcomes and reduce the emotional burden of secondary infertility. Furthermore, the review discusses preventive strategies and the potential for future research to refine diagnostic methods and explore novel treatments. By recognizing and addressing the impact of retained fetal bone fragments, this review aims to enhance the understanding and management of this condition, providing valuable support to couples seeking to overcome the challenges of secondary infertility on their journey toward parenthood.

A Comprehensive Review on Asthma Challenges in Pregnancy: Exploring First Trimester Exacerbations and the Spectrum of Congenital Anomalies.

This comprehensive review delves into the intricate relationship between asthma and pregnancy, specifically focusing on the challenges encountered in the first trimester and the ensuing impact on maternal and fetal health. Examining physiological changes during pregnancy reveals the dynamic interplay influencing respiratory function and immune responses. Key findings underscore the vulnerability to asthma exacerbations in the critical first trimester, emphasizing the potential risks to both maternal and fetal well-being. Maternal and fetal outcomes are discussed, emphasizing the associations between poorly controlled asthma and adverse perinatal outcomes. Implications for clinical practice highlight the importance of preconception care, continuous monitoring, and collaborative efforts between obstetricians and pulmonologists. Patient education emerges as a fundamental aspect to empower pregnant women in managing their condition. The conclusion emphasizes the imperative for comprehensive care, advocating for individualized treatment plans, multidisciplinary collaboration, and public health initiatives. By adopting this holistic approach, healthcare providers can navigate the complexities of asthma during pregnancy, ultimately ensuring the optimal health of both the expectant mother and her developing fetus.

UK experience of ofatumumab in recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis post-kidney transplant.

BACKGROUND: Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS), commonly caused by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), is associated with progression to stage 5 chronic kidney disease, requirement for kidney replacement therapy and a risk of disease recurrence post-kidney transplantation. Ofatumumab (OFA) is a fully humanised monoclonal antibody to CD20, with similar mechanisms of action to rituximab (RTX). METHODS: We report a case series of seven UK patients (five paediatric, two adult), all of whom developed FSGS recurrence after kidney transplantation and received OFA as part of their therapeutic intervention. All also received concomitant plasmapheresis. The 2-year outcome of these seven patients is reported, describing clinical course, kidney function and proteinuria. RESULTS: Four patients (all paediatric) achieved complete urinary remission with minimal proteinuria 12 months post-treatment. Three of those four also had normal graft function. Two patients showed partial remission-brief improvement to non-nephrotic proteinuria (197 mg/mmol) in one patient, maintained improvement in kidney function (estimated glomerular filtration rate 76 ml/min/1.73 m2) in the other. One patient did not demonstrate any response. CONCLUSIONS: OFA may represent a useful addition to therapeutic options in the management of FSGS recurrence post-transplantation, including where RTX has shown no benefit. Concomitant plasmapheresis in all patients prevents any definitive conclusion that OFA was the beneficial intervention.

Yoga Therapy as an Adjuvant in Management of Asthma.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of yoga on control of asthma in children with bronchial asthma. METHODS: This hospital-based interventional randomized controlled trial conducted in the Department of Pediatrics at a tertiary care center of North India from November 2017 to October 2018 enrolled 140 newly diagnosed cases of asthma of age 10-16 y who were randomly divided into two groups. Seventy children in the case group practiced yoga under supervision for a period of 3 mo in addition to pharmacological treatment. Seventy controls received only pharmacological treatment. Pulmonary-function tests were done at baseline, 6 wk, and 12 wk along with quality of life (QOL) assessment by Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ). The outcome measures assessed were forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). QOL evaluation was done in 3 domains: activity limitation, symptoms, and emotional function. RESULTS: The asthmatic children practicing yoga have shown significant improvement in FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC and PEFR which was better as compared to controls. Improvement was also noted in mean-PAQLQ score in cases which was statistically significantly better as compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Yoga appears to have significant positive effect on control of asthma measured by pulmonary-function test and QOL. Therefore yoga therapy can be recommended as an adjuvant in management of asthma along with standard pharmacological management.

UK national study of barriers to renal transplantation in children.

AIMS: To investigate access to paediatric renal transplantation and examine potential barriers within the process. METHODS: Cross-sectional, multicentre, observational study where paediatric nephrology centres in the UK were requested to provide data on transplantation plans for all children (<18 years) with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). RESULTS: 308 children with ESKD were included in this study from 12 out of 13 UK paediatric nephrology centres. 139 (45%) were being prepared for living donor transplantation and 82 (27%) were listed for deceased donor transplantation. The most common cited factors delaying transplantation from occurring in children were disease factors (36%), donor availability (27%) and size of the child (20%). Psychosocial factors were listed as a barrier in 19% of children. CONCLUSIONS: In this study we have documented the main barriers to renal transplantation in children. Some identified factors may be modifiable through local or national intervention, including donor availability and patient psychosocial factors.

Treatment and long-term outcome in primary nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

BACKGROUND: Primary nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is a rare disorder and little is known about treatment practices and long-term outcome. METHODS: Paediatric and adult nephrologists contacted through European professional organizations entered data in an online form. RESULTS: Data were collected on 315 patients (22 countries, male 84%, adults 35%). Mutation testing had been performed in 270 (86%); pathogenic variants were identified in 258 (96%). The median (range) age at diagnosis was 0.6 (0.0-60) years and at last follow-up 14.0 (0.1-70) years. In adults, height was normal with a mean (standard deviation) score of -0.39 (±1.0), yet there was increased prevalence of obesity (body mass index >30 kg/m2; 41% versus 16% European average; P < 0.001). There was also increased prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage ≥2 in children (32%) and adults (48%). Evidence of flow uropathy was present in 38%. A higher proportion of children than adults (85% versus 54%; P < 0.001) received medications to reduce urine output. Patients ≥25 years were less likely to have a university degree than the European average (21% versus 35%; P = 0.003) but full-time employment was similar. Mental health problems, predominantly attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (16%), were reported in 36% of patients. CONCLUSION: This large NDI cohort shows an overall favourable outcome with normal adult height and only mild to moderate CKD in most. Yet, while full-time employment was similar to the European average, educational achievement was lower, and more than half had urological and/or mental health problems.

Glutathione S-transferasesP1 AA (105Ile) allele increases oral cancer risk, interacts strongly with c-Jun Kinase and weakly detoxifies areca-nut metabolites.

The Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) protects cellular DNA against oxidative damage. The role of GSTP1 polymorphism (A313G; Ile105Val) as a susceptibility factor in oral cancer was evaluated in a hospital-based case-control study in North-East India, because the habit of chewing raw areca-nut (RAN) with/without tobacco is common in this region. Genetic polymorphism was investigated by genotyping 445 cases and 444 controls. Individuals with the GSTP1 AA-genotype showed association with the oral cancer (OR = 3.1, 95% CI = 2.4-4.2, p = 0.0002). Even after adjusting for age, sex and habit the AA-genotype is found to be significantly associated with oral cancer (OR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.7-3.2, p = 0.0001). A protein-protein docking analysis demonstrated that in the GG-genotype the binding geometry between c-Jun Kinase and GSTP1 was disrupted. It was validated by immunohistochemistry in human samples, showing lower c-Jun-phosphorylation and down-regulation of pro-apoptotic genes in normal oral epithelial cells with the AA-genotype. In silico docking revealed that AA-genotype weakly detoxifies the RAN/tobacco metabolites. In addition, experiments revealed a higher level of 8-Oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine induction in tumor samples with the AA-genotype. Thus, habit of using RAN/tobacco and GSTP1 AA-genotype together play a significant role in predisposition to oral cancer risk by showing higher DNA-lesions and lower c-Jun phosphorylation that may inhibit apoptosis.

Public Awareness of the Emergency Medical Services in Maharashtra, India: A Questionnaire-based Survey.

Background and objectives The most widely used emergency medical services (EMS) model in India is the '108' emergency service which primarily functions as an emergency response system to attend patients in need of critical care, trauma and accident victims. This is an observational cross-sectional study which was conducted using a questionnaire that asks the participants about their awareness and opinion of the current EMS system. The results of this study will enable us to ascertain the level of awareness of EMS among the population and address any misconceptions if they exist. Materials and methods All participants had to complete a 24-item self-administered questionnaire consisting of eight socio-demographic questions and 16 questions based on the EMS system. Questions regarding the development of the '112' unified emergency service were also included. The convenient sampling method was used for data collection. The distribution of responses was examined using frequencies and percentages. Further analysis was done using the Chi-square test to compare responses between various subgroups based on the age, gender, profession, and level of education. Results A total of 1220 people from the state of Maharashtra responded to the survey and the maximum responses were from Mumbai. Majority of the respondents (59.2%) were from the age group of 15 to 30 years and, most of our responders had received education at the graduate level or above (78.2%). Only 17.5% of the respondents said that they will try to check for responsiveness if they saw a person lying unconscious by the side of the road with the scene being free of any danger. Interestingly, 78.9% of the healthcare professionals who participated in this survey would not check for responsiveness. Only 76.2% of the respondents knew that '108' is the number to dial in case of a medical emergency and about a quarter of them was not aware of it. It may seem that a good number of people are aware of the number. However, with the high number of fatalities occurring every day due to lack of medical facilities and a high current annual death toll on the roads, 100% of the population should know the emergency number. Only 20.2% of the respondents had called the EMS and asked for an ambulance. 68.5% of the respondents would immediately move out of the way and 27.5% of them would move out of their way if the ambulance's lights and sirens were on. About two-thirds of the respondents were unaware of the development of a unified emergency number (112). However, a large majority (82.9%) were in favor of having a unified emergency number instead of a different number for each emergency. Only 43.8% of the respondents were of the opinion that the current EMS coverage was inadequate. 24.9% of the participants rated the current EMS as good, whereas 53.5% rated the EMS average and 16.9% rated it poor. Conclusions An effort should be made to make 100% of the population aware of this service. The first step for increasing awareness would be starting various advertisement campaigns. The next step would be to implement the unified emergency number (112) to address all kinds of distress calls such as police, fire, and ambulance. A very small proportion of the population is trained in first-aid or basic trauma life support. Awareness campaigns and training sessions for the general public should be conducted for the same. It is also necessary to spread awareness and help the populace know about the Good Samaritan law.

Dalteparin anticoagulation in paediatric home haemodialysis.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate whether dalteparin is a safe and effective anticoagulant for paediatric home haemodialysis (HD) and to assess the determinants of dosing. METHODS: Data were collected for all children (< 18 years) undergoing home HD from 2011 to 2017 at one large paediatric nephrology centre in the UK. All children had anticoagulation with dalteparin sodium according to a standardised protocol. Dalteparin safety was assessed by monitoring for accumulation, adequate clearance of dalteparin and adverse events. Dalteparin efficacy was assessed through monitoring for clot formation in dialysis circuits. Potential determinants of dalteparin dosing were assessed. RESULTS: Eighteen children were included, their median age at start was 12 years, and 50% were male. Eighty-three percent of children had four home HD sessions each week, with a median total dialysis hours of 20 h/week. Thirty-three percent of children had nocturnal home HD. Median dalteparin dose at 12-month follow-up was 40 IU/kg (range 8-142 IU/kg). Factors associated with higher dalteparin dosing requirements included a younger age of the child (p < 0.01), a lower blood flow rate (p < 0.01) and the use of a central venous line for dialysis access (p = 0.038). No children had evidence of bioaccumulation of dalteparin or inadequate clearance. No significant bleeding or adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Dalteparin is a safe and effective anticoagulant when used for paediatric home HD. In this study, there was no evidence of bioaccumulation or significant adverse events. Further research is required to directly compare dalteparin with unfractionated heparin (UFH) and evaluate anticoagulant choice for paediatric home HD.

Improving water quality in a dialysis unit using root cause analysis.

BACKGROUND: Water quality levels from hemodialysis (HD) and reverse osmosis (RO) machines in dialysis units must meet standards set by the American Association of Medical Instrumentation. Researchers used a root cause analysis (RCA) approach to identify and address factors affecting water quality in the HD and portable RO machines at our institution. METHODS: A multidisciplinary team reviewed processes, interviewed staff members, and identified opportunities to improve the current sampling and machine disinfection processes. The RCA team identified and implemented 5 interventions, of which 3 were process (changes in water sampling technique, machine disinfection processes, and allocation of machine maintenance duties) and 2 were structural (regular cleaning of water sampling tubes and spigots and addition of new water sampling sites in the system) measures. RESULTS: Postimplementation of new protocols, 100% of water cultures of HD and RO machines consistently met the required regulatory standards as recorded over a period of 8 months. CONCLUSIONS: RCA approach helped improve patient safety, quality of care, streamlined processes, and improved efficiencies of work for staff within the HD program.

Comparative glandular trichome transcriptome-based gene characterization reveals reasons for differential (-)-menthol biosynthesis in Mentha species.

The genes involved in menthol biosynthesis are reported earlier in Mentha × piperita. But the information on these genes is not available in Mentha arvensis. To bridge the gap in knowledge on differential biosynthesis of monoterpenes leading to compositional variation in the essential oil of these species, a comparative transcriptome analysis of the glandular trichome (GT) was carried out. In addition to the mevalonic acid (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway genes, about 210 and 196 different terpene synthases (TPSs) transcripts were identified from annotation in M. arvensis and M. × piperita, respectively, and correlated to several monoterpenes present in the essential oil. Six isoforms of (-)-menthol dehydrogenases (MD), the last enzyme of the menthol biosynthetic pathway, were identified, cloned and characterized from the transcriptome data (three from each species). Varied expression levels and differential enzyme kinetics of these isoforms indicated the nature and composition of the product, as these isoforms generate both (-)-menthol and (+)-neomenthol from (-)-menthone and converts (-)-menthol to (-)-menthone in the reverse reaction, and hence together determine the quantity of (-)-menthol in the essential oil in these two species. Several genes for high value minor monoterpenes could also be identified from the transcriptome data.

Hypervitaminosis A is prevalent in children with CKD and contributes to hypercalcemia.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin A accumulates in renal failure, but the prevalence of hypervitaminosis A in children with predialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not known. Hypervitaminosis A has been associated with hypercalcemia. In this study we compared dietary vitamin A intake with serum retinoid levels and their associations with hypercalcemia. METHODS: We studied the relationship between vitamin A intake, serum retinoid levels, and serum calcium in 105 children with CKD stages 2-5 on dialysis and posttransplant. Serum retinoid measures included retinol (ROH), its active retinoic acid (RA) metabolites [all-trans RA (at-RA) and 13-cis RA] and carrier proteins [retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP4) and transthyretin (TTR)]. Dietary vitamin A intake was assessed using a food diary. RESULTS: Twenty-five children were in CKD 2-3, 35 in CKD 4-5, 23 on dialysis and 22 posttransplant; 53 % had vitamin A intake above the Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) value. Children receiving supplemental feeds compared with diet alone had higher vitamin A intake (p = 0.02) and higher serum ROH (p < 0.001). Notably, increased ROH was seen as early as CKD stage 2. For every 10 ml/min/1.73 m(2) fall in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), there was a 13 % increase in ROH. RBP4 levels were increased in CKD 3-5 and dialysis patients. The lowest ratios of ROH:RBP4 were seen in dialysis compared with CKD 2-3 (p = 0.03), suggesting a relative increase in circulating RBP4. Serum ROH, RBP4 and at-RA were associated with serum calcium. On multivariable analysis RBP4 levels and alfacalcidol dose were significant predictors of serum calcium (model R (2) 32 %) in dialysis patients. CONCLUSIONS: Hypervitaminosis A is seen in early CKD, with highest levels in children on supplemental feeds compared with diet alone. Serum retinoid levels significantly predict hypercalcemia.

Intensified home haemodialysis for managing severe cardiac failure.

BACKGROUND: Conventional thrice weekly haemodialysis (HD) provides adequate dialysis to prevent mortality, but morbidity is prevalent in both the paediatric and adult population. There has been growing interest in the potential of intensive dialysis regimes entering the realm of optimal dialysis, with superior health and quality of life outcomes. CASE DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT: We present the case of a 13-year-old girl who had bilateral nephrectomies as a result of bilateral Wilms tumors. In the third year of treatment with conventional HD, she presented with symptomatic progressive cardiac failure, presumably secondary to anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy. Consequently, she was taken off the renal transplant list and became increasingly dependent on frequent in-centre dialysis sessions to manage her symptoms. Five months after switching to a frequent and extended home HD regime, we observed a tremendous improvement in her health and well-being, with complete reversal of her cardiac dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Home HD is a practically viable option in children with severe cardiac dysfunction. Gentler, more intensive dialysis will draw out and improve the ureamic component of heart disease. This may translate into improved cardiac function.

Performing renal biopsies in children under general anaesthesia in the lateral position.

BACKGROUND: Renal biopsies are usually performed in the prone position, often under general anaesthesia. Because it is theoretically and pragmatically safer to anaesthetise children in the lateral rather than the prone position, we compared the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided renal biopsy in these two positions. CASE-DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT: In our department, physician preference dictates positioning during renal biopsy. We retrospectively audited the case notes and biopsy quality of 50 consecutive biopsies performed in each position, reviewing a total of 44 lateral and 47 prone position biopsies. Patient characteristics were similar for age and sex. Endotracheal intubation was carried out in all patients in the prone position and 18 % of patients in the lateral position. All patients were successfully biopsied, and the diagnostic yield and complications were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Renal biopsy under general anaesthesia is as successful in the lateral position as when it is performed prone. Therefore, the lateral position should be considered as an alternative because it reduces the anaesthetic risk.