Inborn errors of immunity and its clinical significance in children with lymphoma in China: a single-center study

Abstract Objective: To investigate the incidence, clinical and genetic characteristics of pediatric lymphoma patients of China with inborn errors of immunity (IEI)-related gene mutations, which have not been fully studied. Method: From Jan. 2020 to Mar. 2023, IEI-related genetic mutations were retrospectively explored in 108 children with lymphomas admitted to Beijing Children's Hospital by NGS. Genetic rule and clinical characteristics as well as treatment outcomes were compared between patients with or without IEI-related gene mutations. Results: A total of 17 patients (15.7 %) harbored IEI-associated mutations, including 4 cases with X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome (XLP), 3 cases had mutations in tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 13B (TNFRSF13B), 2 cases with Activated p110 syndrome (APDS). Patients with IEI all had alteration of immunocompetence with decreased levels of immunoglobulin and lymphocyte subsets. Recurrent infection existed in 41.2 % of patients. The 18-month event-free survival (EFS) and the overall response rate (ORR) of patients with IEI are significantly lower than those without IEI (33.86% vs. 73.26 %, p = 0.011; 52.94% vs. 87.91 %, p = 0.002, respectively). In addition, patients with IEI had a higher progression disease (PD) rate of 23.5 % than those without IEI of 4.4% (p = 0.006). Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that IEI-associated lymphomas were much more common than originally appreciated in pediatric lymphomas, and those were insensitive to treatment and more likely to progress or relapse. The genomic analysis and a thorough review of the medical history of IEI can be used to distinguish them from pediatric lymphomas without IEI, which are beneficial for the early diagnosis and direct intervention.

Peripheral immune profile and gene variations of 11 immunodeficiency virus-negative children with Talaromyces marneffei infection / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To explore the immunological characteristics of peripheral blood and genetic variations of 11 immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-negative children with Talaromyces marneffei(TM) infection, thus enhancing the diagnostic and therapeutic levels of TM infection in children. Methods:Clinical data of 11 HIV-negative children with TM infection who presented to Guangzhou Women and Children′s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University from January 2010 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, including clinical characteristics, peripheral immune profile and genetic test results.Results:A total of 11 HIV-negative children with TM infections were recruited, involving 9 males and 2 females with a median age of 19 months.The main clinical manifestations were fever (10/11, 90.91%), cough (10/11, 90.91%) and hepatomegaly (7/11, 63.64%). Common severe complications included acute respiratory distress syndrome (7/11, 63.64%) and septic shock (5/11, 45.45%). Finally, 2 children died.Transient neutropenia occurred in 6 cases (6/11, 54.55%), and lymphocytopenia combined with serum immunoglobulin (Ig) G decrease was observed in 4 cases (4/11, 36.36%). IgA decrease, IgM decrease, IgE decrease, IgM increase and IgE increase were observed in 6 cases, 3 cases, 5 cases, 3 cases, and 2 cases, respectively.Both T-lymphocyte and B-lymphocyte counts decreases was observed in 1 case.Genetic testing was performed in all recruited children, and genetic variations were detected in all of them.Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) were diagnosed in 8 cases, including 4 diagnosed as CD 40 ligand deficiency with CD40LG variation, 1 of severe combined immunodeficiency with IL2RG variation, 1 of Signal transduction and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)-hyper-IgE syndrome with STAT3 variation and 1 of familial candidiasis type 2 with CARD9 compound heterozygous mutations.In the other 3 cases, 2 carried genetic variations that were likely pathogenic, and 1 case was considered uncertain. Conclusions:The clinical manifestations of HIV-negative children with TM infection are atypical, which is characterized as serious complications and high mortality.Early identification and gene testing to detect potential IEIs can improve the prognosis of TM infection.

Continuous renal replacement therapy for neonatal hyperammonemia: 10 cases experience / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study clinical outcomes, genetic etiology, efficacy and safety of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) for neonatal hyperammonemia.Methods:From September 2016 to June 2023, neonates with hyperammonemia receiving CRRT in NICU of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Their perinatal conditions, clinical manifestations, laboratory results, genetic tests, treatments and outcomes were collected. The patients were assigned into survival group and death group according to their conditions at discharge. SPSS 22.0 statistical software was used to analyze the differences between the two groups.Results:A total of 10 patients were enrolled, including 8 males and 2 females. The gestational age was 39.3(38.2,39.8)weeks and birth weight 3 300(3 050, 3 583) g. The age of onset was 2.0(2.0, 4.3) d. The main clinical manifestations included seizures, coma and high blood ammonia level (up to 586-1 250 μmol/L). The patients received CRRT at 3.0(2.0, 8.3) d of age and CRRT lasted for 20.5(16.5, 42.8) h. Before CRRT, average time of coma was 10.0(3.5, 12.8) h and the total duration of coma was 20.5(12.5, 29.0) h. After CRRT, blood ammonia decreased (52.6±22.2) μmol/L every hour for 6 h. The genetic tests showed ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency in 5 cases, methylmalonic acidemia in 2 cases, propionic acidemia in 1 case, carnitine acylcarnitine translocase deficiency in 1 case and transient hyperammonemia in 1 case. 6 patients survived. 4 patients died at discharge, including 2 withdrawal treatment. The duration of coma before CRRT and the total duration of coma in the death group were significantly longer than the survival group ( P<0.05). Conclusions:Inborn metabolic error are common causes of neonatal hyperammonemia. Timely CRRT can safely and effectively reduce blood ammonia levels and may improve clinical outcomes.

Evaluation of newborn screening in the state of Mato Grosso from 2005 to 2019 / Avaliação da triagem neonatal no Estado de Mato Grosso no período de 2005 a 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate quality indicators of the Neonatal Screening Referral Service of the state of Mato Grosso (NSRS-MT) from 2005 to 2019. Methods: Cross-sectional, retrospective, exploratory, descriptive, and observational study from 2005 to 2019. The following parameters were analyzed: age of newborns at the first collection, time between sample collection and arrival at the laboratory, time between the arrival and release of results and time between requesting the second sample and arrival at the NSRS. The population coverage of the program and the incidence of each clinical situation screened were also analyzed. Results: NSRS-MT coverage was analyzed and recorded as 76%. The incidence was analyzed for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) 1:1867, phenylketonuria (PKU) 1:33,311, sickle cell disease (SCD) 1:2004, cystic fibrosis (CF) 1:12,663, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) 1:15,843, and biotinidase deficiency (DB) 1:25,349. The median age (days) at the first consultation was: 44 for HC, 22 for PKU, 60 for DF, 52 for FC, 79 for HAC and 79 for DB. The mean time between exam collection and delivery to the NSRS was 8.4 days; between the arrival and release of results, 9 days; and for the return of recalls, 59 days. Conclusions: Regarding the coverage of the target population and collection at the ideal age, the NSRS-MT presents values below the national average. However, regarding the mean age at the time of the first consultation, the state's performance is better than the national.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar indicadores de qualidade do Serviço de Referência em Triagem Neonatal do Estado de Mato Grosso (SRTN/MT) no período de 2005 a 2019. Métodos: Estudo transversal, retrospectivo, exploratório, descritivo e observacional, que utilizou dados do formulário FormSUS nos anos de 2005 a 2019. Foram analisados os seguintes parâmetros: idade dos recém-nascidos na primeira coleta, tempo entre coleta da amostra e chegada ao laboratório, tempo entre a chegada e a liberação dos resultados e tempo entre a solicitação da segunda amostra até a chegada ao SRTN. Foram analisadas, também, a cobertura populacional do programa e a incidência de cada situação clínica triada. Resultados: Cobertura do SRTN-MT: 76%. Incidências: hipotireoidismo congênito (HC) 1:1.867, fenilcetonúria (PKU) 1:33.311, doença falciforme (DF) 1:2.004, fibrose cística (FC) 1:12.663, hiperplasia adrenal congênita (HAC) 1:15.843 e deficiência de biotinidase (DB) 1:25.349. A mediana da idade (dias) na primeira consulta foi: 44 para HC, 22 para PKU, 60 para DF, 52 para FC, 79 para HAC e 79 para DB. A média entre a coleta do exame e a entrega no SRTN foi de 8,4 dias; entre a chegada e liberação dos resultados, de 9 dias; e para o retorno de reconvocados, de 59 dias. Conclusões: Com relação à cobertura da população alvo e a coleta na idade ideal, o SRTN apresenta valores abaixo da média nacional. Contudo, quanto à idade média no momento da primeira consulta, o desempenho de MT é melhor que a média nacional.

Medium Chain Acyl CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency and Eating Disorders: An Underreported Coincidence

Abstract Medium chain acyl-coA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD), the most common fatty acid oxidation disorder, has been regarded as a relatively benign condition with low risk of mortality in patients with a known diagnosis, if adequate caloric intake is met. However, inadequate energy provision, as occurs in eating disorders, significantly amplifies the risk of metabolic decompensation. This case series describes four patients with MCADD and a concomitant eating disorder and aims to raise awareness of the potentially under-recognised coexistence of these conditions. All patients were female with signs of disordered eating in adolescence and young adulthood though latency in diagnosis was apparent. Three of the patients had low body mass index (BMI) and the other was overweight. Metabolic decompensation and hospitalisation occurred in three of four patients secondary to extreme risk-taking behaviour with caloric restriction. The coexistence of MCADD and eating disorders is of significant concern, placing the patient at substantial risk of decompensation in an otherwise relatively stable metabolic condition. Awareness of disordered eating in this population is paramount, as early recognition of signs and symptoms of eating disorders in the MCADD population may facilitate prompt intervention and avoidance of morbidity and potential mortality.

Hipoglicemia hipocetósica por deficiencia de carnitina en un niño

Durante el ayuno, la oxidación de ácidos grasos y la formación de cuerpos cetónicos son necesarios para la producción de energía. La carnitina es esencial para que los ácidos grasos de cadena larga se transfieran a la mitocondria para la oxidación de ácidos grasos. La deficiencia primaria de carnitina es un defecto recesivo que se expresa con un espectro clínico amplio que incluye descompensación metabólica, hipoglicemia hipocetósica o cardiomiopatía en la niñez, fatigabilidad en la adultez o ausencia de síntomas. En nuestro país no hay publicaciones sobre el tema, por lo que en el presente artículo se reporta el caso de un niño que presentó una deficiencia de carnitina expresada como hipoglicemia hipocetósica y se analiza sus hallazgos clínicos, bioquímicos e histopatológicos.

During fasting, the oxidation of fatty acids and the formation of ketone bodies are necessary for energy production. Carnitine is essential for long-chain fatty acids to be transferred to the mitochondria for fatty acid oxidation. Primary carnitine deficiency is a recessive defect that is expressed with a broad clinical spectrum that includes metabolic decompensation, hypoketotic hypoglycemia or cardiomyopathy in childhood, fatiguability in adulthood or absence of symptoms. In our country there are no publications on the subject, so this article reports the case of a child who had carnitine deficiency expressed as hypoketotic hypoglycemia and its clinical, biochemical and histopathological findings are analyzed.

Perfil de atención de pacientes con errores congénitos del metabolismo en un hospital pediátrico entre 2008 y 2018 / Profile of care of patients with inborn errors of metabolism in a pediatric hospital between 2008 and 2018 / Perfil do atendimento de pacientes com erros inatos do metabolismo em um hospital pediátrico entre 2008 e 2018

Resumen Los errores congénitos del metabolismo (ECM) son un grupo de enfermedades poco frecuentes que generan gran morbimortalidad. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir el perfil de atención clínico y bioquímico de los ECM no incluidos en la pesquisa neonatal en menores de 15 años atendidos en un hospital pediátrico, entre enero de 2008 y diciembre de 2018. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo en el que se evaluaron los registros hospitalarios: motivo de consulta, diagnóstico, evolución clínica, tiempos y costos diagnósticos de pacientes con sospecha y diagnóstico confirmado de ECM entre 2008 y 2018 en un hospital público pediátrico de Mendoza, Argentina. Se incluyeron 59 pacientes con ECM: enfermedades de depósito lisosomal (32,2%) y alteración metabólica de aminoácidos y acidurias orgánicas (27,1%), entre otros. La edad media fue de 2,6 años y la relación varón/mujer 1,5. La media de tiempo entre la primera consulta por sospecha de ECM y el diagnóstico fue de 11 meses. Hubo correspondencia entre el diagnóstico y el motivo de consulta (p=0,003). El 22% evolucionó al deterioro progresivo, 25,4% permanecieron estables, 28,8% con secuelas y 23,8% fallecieron. El costo directo total de los exámenes bioquímicos fue 61 560 UB=1 809 248 pesos argentinos=46 785 dólares estadounidenses (valor a finales de 2018). En conclusión, este trabajo refleja la variabilidad de los ECM, su evolución clínica, similar a lo publicado y el perfil bioquímico local.

Abstract Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a group of rare diseases that cause high morbidity and mortality. The objective of the present study was to describe the clinical-biochemical profile of patients, under 15 years old, with IEM not included in newborn screening, in a pediatric hospital, from January 2008 to December 2018. A descriptive and retrospective study was carried out in which hospital records were evaluated: reason for consultation, diagnosis, clinical evolution, diagnostic times and costs of patients with suspected and confirmed diagnosis of IEM between 2008 and 2018 in a public pediatric hospital from Mendoza, Argentina. A total of 59 patients with IEM were evaluated: lysosomal storage diseases (32.2%) and metabolic alteration of amino acids and organic acidurias (27.1%), among others. The mean age was 2.6 years and the male/female ratio was 1.5. The mean time between the first consultation for suspected IEM and diagnosis was 11 months. There was correspondence between the diagnosis and the reason for consultation (p=0.003). Twenty-two percent evolved to progressive deterioration, 25.4% remained stable, 28.8% with sequelae and 23.8% died. The total direct cost of the biochemical tests was 61 560 UB=1 809 248 Argentine pesos=46 785 US dollars (value at the end of 2018). Concluding, this work reflects the variability of IEM and its clinical evolution, similar to what has been published, and the local biochemical profile.

Resumo Os erros inatos do metabolismo (EIM) são um grupo de doenças pouco frequentes que geram alta morbimortalidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever o perfil clínico e bioquímico de atendimento dos EIM não incluídos na triagem neonatal em menores de 15 anos atendidos em um hospital pediátrico, entre janeiro de 2008 e dezembro de 2018. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo e retrospectivo em que foram avaliados os registros hospitalares: motivo da consulta, diagnóstico, evolução clínica, tempos e custos diagnósticos de pacientes com diagnóstico suspeito e confirmado de EIM entre 2008 e 2018 em um hospital pediátrico público em Mendoza, Argentina. Foram avaliados 59 pacientes com EIM: doenças de depósito lisossômico (32,2%) e alteração metabólica de aminoácidos e acidúrias orgânicas (27,1%), entre outras. A média de idade foi de 2,6 anos e a relação homem/mulher foi de 1,5. O tempo médio entre a primeira consulta por suspeita de EIM e o diagnóstico foi de 11 meses. Houve correspondência entre o diagnóstico e o motivo da consulta (p=0,003). Evoluíram 22% para piora progressiva, 25,4% permaneceram estáveis , 28,8% com sequelas e 23,8% faleceram. O custo direto total dos testes bioquímicos foi de 61 560 UB=1 809 248 pesos argentinos=46 785 U$S (valor no final de 2018). Concluindo, este trabalho reflete a variabilidade da EIM e sua evolução clínica, semelhante ao que vem sendo publicado, e o perfil bioquímico local.

Clinical-demographic characteristics of patient with primary immunodeficiencies

Introduction: Primary immunodeficiencies are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders that affect the functioning of the immune system. Primary immunodeficiencies can present with variable clinical features in early childhood and adulthood. Objective: To characterize patients diagnosed with primary immunodeficiencies clinically and demographically. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective case series study was carried out with 39 patients of both sexes, diagnosed with primary immunodeficiencies, according to the latest International Union of Immunological Societies classification; attended from January 2012 to December 2021 in Granma. Age (at onset of symptoms, diagnosis, and delay in diagnosis), sex, family history, and clinical manifestations were evaluated. Data from medical records were collected. They were processed using descriptive statistics. Results: The age of onset of symptoms ranged from one month of life to 37 years, with a mean of 6.31 years; the average age of diagnosis was 11.89 years. Humoral deficiencies represented 69.23% of all primary immunodeficiencies and relative IgA deficiency predominated (11 cases). A family history of primary immunodeficiencies was reported by 12 patients. Recurrent infections (71.79%) and allergies (61.53%) were the most frequent manifestations; the mortality rate was 2.56%. Conclusions: Primary immunodeficiencies were more frequent in childhood, with the same behavior in both sexes. Infections, allergies, and a family history of primary immunodeficiency were important findings. Humoral immunodeficiencies were the most prevalent.

Introducción: Las inmunodeficiencias primarias son un grupo heterogéneo de trastornos genéticos que afectan el funcionamiento del sistema inmunológico. Pueden presentarse con características clínicas variables en la primera infancia y en la edad adulta. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y demográficamente a pacientes diagnosticados con inmunodeficiencias primarias. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de serie de casos, transversal, descriptivo, retrospectivo, con 39 pacientes de ambos sexos, con diagnóstico de inmunodeficiencias primarias, según la última clasificación de la International Union of Immunological Societies; atendidos de enero de 2012 a diciembre de 2021 en Granma. Se evaluó la edad (de inicio de los síntomas, diagnóstico y retraso en el diagnóstico), sexo, antecedentes familiares y manifestaciones clínicas. Se recolectaron los datos de las historias clínicas. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva. Resultados: La edad de inicio de los síntomas osciló entre el mes de vida y los 37 años, con una media de 6,31 años; la edad media de diagnóstico fue de 11,89 años. Las deficiencias humorales representaron el 69,23 % de todas las inmunodeficiencias primarias y predominó el déficit relativo de IgA (11 casos). Reportaron antecedentes familiares de inmunodeficiencias primarias 12 pacientes. Las infecciones recurrentes (71,79 %) y las alergias (61,53 %) fueron las manifestaciones más frecuentes; la tasa de mortalidad fue de 2,56 %. Conclusiones: Las inmunodeficiencias primarias fueron más frecuentes en la infancia, con el mismo comportamiento en ambos sexos. Las infecciones, las alergias y los antecedentes familiares de inmunodeficiencia primaria fueron hallazgos importantes. Las inmunodeficiencias humorales fueron las más prevalentes.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in adolescents with phenylketonuria

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to investigate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurrence and factors associated with the disease in phenylketonuria (PKU) patients undergoing exclusive dietary treatment. Method: This cross-sectional study included 101 adolescents 10 to < 20 years of age with PKU, who were undergoing exclusive dietary treatment and monitored since early diagnosis at a single reference service. Anthropometric and biochemical assessments were performed and food intake was documented, and an ultrasound diagnosis of NAFLD was established. Data were evaluated using the Student's t-test for continuous variables, the chi-square for categorical variables, and logistic regression using the Wald chi-squared test; differences with p < 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Results: NAFLD was detected in 26 (25.7%) teenagers. There was no difference in prevalence between the sexes or nutritional status. The final logistic regression model revealed low sensitivity (26.1%) and high specificity (94.7%). The specificity suggested a lower likelihood of NAFLD in older adolescents, in the presence of normal or high levels of alkaline phosphatase, lower carbohydrate intake, and adequate protein and lipid intake. Conclusions: The prevalence of NAFLD in adolescents with PKU was higher than that found in healthy Brazilian adolescents and similar to that found in obese Brazilian children, suggesting a higher risk for NAFLD in patients with PKU treated exclusively by dietary modification.

Disease spectrum and genetic profiles of neonatal inborn errors of metabolism in selected areas of Nanning city / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study disease spectrum and genetic profiles of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) among newborns in selected areas of Nanning city.Methods:From July 2019 to December 2021, neonates born and received IEM screening in our hospital were prospectively enrolled. Heel blood samples were tested using tandem mass spectrometry as IEM screening. Neonates with positive results were called back for recheck. Whole exome sequencing was used to detect possible pathogenic genes in suspected cases and IEM was diagnosed combining clinical manifestations. Sanger sequencing method was used for the diagnosed neonates and their parents to confirm the diagnoses.Results:A total of 16 207 live-birth neonates were enrolled. For initial IEM screening, 1 423 neonates were positive (8.8%) and 1 311 were called back (92.1%). 15 cases were suspected with IEM and 8 were diagnosed. The overall detection rate was 1∶2 026. Among 8 confirmed cases, 4 cases had amino acid metabolism disorders (2 cases of phenylketonuria, 1 case of Citrin deficiency and 1 case of tyrosinemia), 2 cases had organic acid metabolism disorders (1 case of methylmalonic acidemia and 1 case of glutaric acidemia) and 2 cases had fatty acid oxidation disorders (1 case of carnitine palmitotransferaseⅡdeficiency and 1 case of primary carnitine deficiency). 5 cases had homozygous genetic variants (2 in PAH, and 1 in SLC25A13, SLC22A5 and FAH, respectively) and 3 had heterozygous genetic variants (1 in CPT2, MUT, and GCDH, respectively). During follow-up, all 8 cases had normal growth and developmental outcomes after standardized treatment.Conclusions:The overall detection rate of IEM is high, with varied genetic profiles in selected areas of Nanning. Timely genetic testing may lead to early diagnosis and treatment and improve the quality of life of neonates.

Lethal mitochondrial trifunctional protein deficiency caused by HADHB gene variation: a case report / 中华围产医学杂志

This article reported a male neonate with lethal mitochondrial trifunctional protein deficiency (MTPD) caused by compound heterozygous variations in the HADHB gene. The patient presented with poor milk intake complicated by abnormal myocardial enzymes within 24 h after birth and was transferred to the Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University on day 4. Physical examination revealed no obvious abnormalities on admission. Laboratory examination showed increased creatine kinase isoenzyme and cardiac troponin levels, and electrocardiogram suggested sinus tachycardia and low QRS voltage in limb leads. Blood screening for metabolic abnormalities showed high levels of tetradecenyl carnitine and various 3-hydroxycarnitines. Heterozygous mutations of c.739C>T(p.Arg247Cys) and c.607C>T(p.Arg203Ter,272) were detected in the HADHB gene in the boy, which were pathogenic variants included in the Human Gene Mutation Database. Followed up to three months of age, the boy was readmitted to hospital due to poor milk intake for one week and poor response for 2 d after catching a cold. After admission, he quickly developed multiple organs dysfunction such as heart failure and respiratory failure, and then died. Lethal MTPD is rare with no effective treatment and poor prognosis. Lethal MTPD should be highly suspected when unexplained cardiomyopathy, hypoglycemia, acidosis and other metabolic abnormalities appear in the neonatal period, and an early diagnosis could be confirmed with genetic testing in the neonatal period.

Research progress of mannose phosphate isomerase-congenital disorders of glycosylation / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Mannose phosphate isomerase-congenital disorders of glycosylation (MPI-CDG) is a treatable congenital genetic metabolic disease caused by the pathogenic variation of the gene encoding MPI.It is mainly manifested as diarrhea, hepatomegaly, hypoglycemia, and coagulation dysfunction.This review described the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, genotypes, diagnosis, treatment and management of MPI-CDG, aiming to enhance the understanding of MPI-CDG.

Case 01 (2023): Neonatal lupus syndrome manifested by metabolic disease: a case report / 中华围产医学杂志

This paper reports a case of neonatal lupus syndrome manifested by metabolic disease. A male neonate was admitted to the Children's Hospital of Soochow University due to poor response and vomiting for 1 day. Based on the clinical symptoms, including the patterned skin and a full anterior fontanelle, and a result of leukocytosis, neonatal sepsis was considered. Lysinuric protein intolerance was not excluded from the genetic metabolic disorders screening. The patient was positive for lupus-related autoantibodies and antinuclear antibodies, which were also found in his mother and elder sister. He had no functional variant of the SCL7A7 gene, a gene related to lysinuric protein intolerance, thereby the diagnosis of neonatal lupus syndrome manifested by metabolic disorders was confirmed. After treatment with methylprednisolone, the patient recovered well with no specific change in blood genetic metabolism at re-examination. Monthly follow-up after discharge found decreased antibody titers.

Genetic analysis and prenatal diagnosis of a pedigree with methylmalonic acidemia / 中华围产医学杂志

This article reports a pedigree with two previously deceased neonates. Both neonates did not experience asphyxia but passed away on their 5th and 13th day of life. The chromosomal analysis of the parents' karyotype revealed no abnormalities. Clinical manifestations of the two deceased cases and relevant medical records were recollected. Whole exome sequencing was conducted on the stem blood sample of Neonate 2, revealing a c.729_730insTT homozygous mutation (p.D244Lfs*39) in the methylmalonyl-CoA mutase gene (NM_000255). It was confirmed that Neonate 2 was affected with methylmalonic acidemia. Amniocentesis was performed at 20 +3 weeks in the current pregnancy. Sanger sequencing of amniotic fluid indicated that the fetus carried the same gene mutation as Neonate 2. Consequently, the fetus was expected to be a patient with methylmalonic acidemia and to exhibit the same phenotype as Neonate 2. Termination of pregnancy, therefore, was selected at 24 weeks of gestation.

Clinical characteristics of 21-hydroxylase deficiency in 22 cases / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment experience of 21-hydroxylase deficiency, with the goal of enhancing the clinical doctors' understanding and diagnosis and treatment of this disease.Methods:A total of 22 patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency who received treatment in People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from 2014 to 2022 were included in this study. The clinical data of patients with different types of 21-hydroxylase deficiency were analyzed. Their treatment outcomes were followed up.Results:The male-to-female ratio was 7:15, and the average age of the patients was 13.0 (4.8, 23.0) years. Female patients exhibited clitoral enlargement, pigmentation, infrequent menstruation, amenorrhea, hirsutism, acne, accelerated growth, infertility, and vomiting. Male patients exhibited precocious puberty, pigmentation, infertility, nausea, and vomiting. Children with salt deficiency exhibited electrolyte disorders and acid-base imbalance changes, including hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypotension, and metabolic acidosis. All patients with confirmed 21-hydroxylase deficiency were treated with glucocorticoid/mineralocorticoid replacement therapy. Five female patients also underwent external genital correction surgery. Among the 10 patients who were followed up, 5 female patients experienced regular or gradual resumption of menstruation, but the improvement in sex hormone levels was not significant.Conclusion:Newborns with gastrointestinal symptoms accompanied by electrolyte disorders, women with hyperandrogenism, male children with precocious puberty, and adult men with infertility should be screened for 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Upon diagnosis, hormone replacement therapy should be conducted to improve prognosis. Genetic testing should be performed as much as possible and regular follow-ups should be conducted to ensure normal adolescent development and good fertility.

Immediate adverse events to intravenous immunoglobulin in pediatric patients with inborn errors of immunity: A longitudinal study with a pre-infusion protocol

Introduction Immunoglobulin represents the main therapy for patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and it is a safe procedure, but adverse events (AEs) can occur with variable frequencies. Objective To evaluate the frequency of immediate AEs to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) regular therapy in a pediatric cohort with IEI after a pre-IVIG infusion protocol. Methods This was a longitudinal study from 2011 to 2019 at a tertiary pediatric hospital in Brazil. Results A total of 1736 infusions were studied in 70 patients with IEI, 46 (65.7%) of whom were males and whose median age was 5.8 years old (range: 6 mo - 18 yo). Seven different brands of IVIG were used with the median loading dose of 0.57g/kg (range: 0.23 - 0.88g/Kg). According to the protocol, pre-medication and step-up infusion rate, were performed in 1305 (75.2%) infusions. Immediate AEs were noted in 10 children (14.3%) and in 22 (1.2%) infusions. Skin reactions (rash or urticaria) were the most common AE with 14 episodes (0.8% of all infusions). Almost all AEs were mild (19/86.4%), with no severe ones being observed. The majority of the AEs (81.8%) was identified at a 0.04ml/kg/min infusion rate. Gender, age at first infusion, presence of infection on the infusion day and change of the IVIG brand were evaluated and none of them were associated with AEs. Conclusion The low frequency of immediate AEs in children with IEI highlights the safety and tolerability of intravenous immunoglobulin replacement with the procedures established at our center.

Dificuldades alimentares em pacientes com Fenilcetonúria / Feeding difficulties in patients with Phenylketonuria

RESUMO Objetivo analisar os resultados de um instrumento que se propõe a auxiliar na identificação das dificuldades alimentares em crianças com Fenilcetonúria (PKU), em comparação a crianças sem a doença. Método estudo transversal, controlado, com amostra de conveniência composta por pacientes com PKU e por indivíduos hígidos, equiparados por idade e sexo. O convite para participação no estudo foi feito por meio de divulgação da pesquisa nas redes sociais. As respostas foram fornecidas pelos responsáveis, sendo que 46 controles e 28 pacientes participaram. Além desses, 13 responsáveis por pacientes em acompanhamento em um Ambulatório de Tratamento de Erros Inatos do Metabolismo foram convidados por ligação telefônica, sendo que 12 aceitaram o convite. Todos os participantes responderam a Escala Brasileira de Alimentação Infantil (EBAI) de forma eletrônica. Resultados foram incluídos no estudo 86 participantes, sendo 40 pacientes (mediana de idade, 2 anos; intervalo interquartil (IQR) = 2 - 4) e 46 controles (mediana de idade, 3,5 anos; IQR = 2 - 5,25). Dez (25%) pacientes e 13 (28,3%) controles apresentaram resultados compatíveis com dificuldades alimentares, demonstrando uma frequência semelhante entre os grupos. O estudo observou que os pacientes com PKU apresentaram menos autonomia alimentar (p = 0,005), foram menos amamentados (p = 0,002) e usaram mais mamadeira que os controles (p = 0,028). Conclusão a frequência de dificuldades alimentares referidas pelos cuidadores foi semelhante entre os grupos, porém as crianças com PKU demonstraram menos autonomia para se alimentar, foram menos amamentadas e usaram mais mamadeira quando comparadas com as crianças sem a doença.

ABSTRACT Purpose to analyze the results of an instrument that aims to assist in the identification of feeding difficulties in children with Phenylketonuria (PKU), compared to children without the disease. Methods cross-sectional, controlled study with a convenience sample composed of patients with PKU and healthy individuals, matched for age and sex. The invitation to participate in the study was made through the dissemination of the research on social networks. The answers were provided by the guardians, 46 controls and 28 patients agreed to participate. In addition to these, 13 guardians of patients being followed up at an Outpatient Clinic for the Treatment of Inborn Errors of Metabolism were invited by phone call, and 12 accepted the invitation. All participants answered the Brazilian Infant Feeding Scale (in Portuguese Escala Brasileira de Alimentação Infantil (EBAI)) electronically. Results the study included 86 participants, 40 patients (median of age = 2 years; interquartile range (IQR) = 2 - 4) and 46 controls (median of age = 3.5 years; IQR = 2 - 5.25). Ten (25%) patients and 13 (28.3%) controls had suspicion of feeding difficulties, demonstrating a similar frequency of feeding difficulties between groups. The study found that PKU patients had less feed autonomy (p = 0.005), were less breastfed (p = 0.002) and used more baby's bottle than controls (p = 0.028). Conclusion the frequency of feeding difficulties reported by caregivers was similar between the comparison groups, but children with PKU had less feed autonomy, were less breastfed and used more baby's bottles when compared to children without the disease.

Compounded drugs as an alternative to the therapeutical gaps of inborn errors of metabolism

Abstract Inborn errors of metabolism are rare disorders with few therapeutic options for their treatments, which can make patients suffer with complications. Therefore, compounded drugs might be a promising option given that they have the ability of meeting the patient's specific needs, (i) identification of the main drugs described in the literature; (ii) proposal of compounding systems and (iii) calculation of the budgetary addition for the inclusion of these drugs into the Brazilian Unified Health System. The research conducted a literature review and used management data as well as data obtained from official Federal District government websites. The study identified 31 drugs for the treatment of inborn errors of metabolism. Fifty eight percent (58%) (18) of the medicines had their current demand identified, which are currently unmet by the local Health System. The estimated budget for the production of compounded drugs was of R$363,16.98 per year for approximately 300 patients. This estimated cost represents a budgetary addition of only 0.17% from the total of expenditures planned for drug acquirement. There is a therapeutic gap for inborn errors of metabolism and compounding pharmacies show potential in ensuring access to medicine therapy with a low-cost investment.

Infecciones en pacientes con inmunodeficiencias primarias en Pinar del Río / Infections in patients with primary immunodeficiencies in Pinar del Rio

RESUMEN Introducción: los errores innatos de la inmunidad son trastornos cuya causa es un defecto genético en uno o más componentes del sistema inmune. A pesar de que la forma de presentación varía según el defecto genético, la mayoría cursa con enfermedades infecciosas que presentan características de recurrencia y persistencia. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de los procesos infecciosos en los pacientes registrados con diagnóstico de Inmunodeficiencia Primaria en el Servicio de Inmunología del Hospital Pediátrico Provincial Docente "Pepe Portilla" de Pinar del Río, en el periodo comprendido de 1994 a marzo de 2021. Métodos: estudio transversal descriptivo. Se analizaron los registros médicos de 125 pacientes diagnosticados de inmunodeficiencias que aparecen registrados en la Base de Datos del Servicio de Inmunología del Hospital Pediátrico Provincial Docente "Pepe Portilla" de Pinar del Río. Resultados: el 85,6 % de pacientes presentaron diagnóstico de algún déficit predominante de anticuerpos. Predominó el sexo masculino, y el rango etario de 6 a 10 años. Las infecciones de mayor presencia fueron la faringoamigdalitis aguda catarral (77,6 %), seguido de la neumonía (58,4 %) y la amigdalitis (56 %). De los signos de alarma que se relacionan con infecciones solo cuatro se encontraron en los pacientes del registro. Conclusión: la susceptibilidad a infecciones no es necesariamente el rasgo clínico preponderante en las inmunodeficiencias primarias, pero el fenotipo infeccioso es el mejor indicador sugestivo para algún defecto de la inmunidad. Aunque es necesario plantear nuevos criterios de manifestaciones infecciosas que faciliten el diagnóstico probable de inmunodeficiencia de forma general y por grupos.

ABSTRACT Introduction: inborn errors of immunity are disorders whose cause is a genetic defect in one or more components of the immune system. Although the form of presentation varies according to the genetic defect, most of them present infectious diseases with recurrent and persistent characteristics. Objective: to determine the prevalence of infectious processes in patients registered with diagnosis of Primary Immunodeficiency in the Immunology Service at Pepe Portilla Provincial Pediatric Teaching Hospital, Pinar del Rio in the period from 1994 to March 2021. Methods: descriptive, cross-sectional study. The medical records of 125 patients diagnosed with immunodeficiencies registered in the database of the Immunology Service at Pepe Portilla Provincial Pediatric Teaching Hospital of Pinar del Rio were analyzed. Results: the 85,6 % of patients presented diagnosis of some predominant antibody deficit. The predominant sex was male and the age range was from 6 to 10 years old. The most frequent infections were acute catarrhal pharyngotonsillitis (77,6 %), followed by pneumonia (58,4 %) and tonsillitis (56 %). Of the alarm signs related to infections only 4 were found in the patients in the registry. Conclusions: susceptibility to infections is not necessarily the predominant clinical feature in primary immunodeficiencies, but the infectious phenotype is still the best suggestive indicator for a defect in immunity. Although it is necessary to propose new criteria for infectious manifestations that facilitate the probable diagnosis of immunodeficiency in general and by groups.

One-year intravenous immunoglobulin replacement therapy: efficacy in reducing hospital admissions in pediatric patients with Inborn Errors of Immunity

Abstract Objectives: To compare the frequency of hospitalization in children with Inborn Errors of Immunity with antibody deficiency previous to intravenous immunoglobulin (pre- IVIG) with a one-year period after initial IVIG (post-IVIG). Methods: Medical reports of 45 patients during an eight-year period were reviewed from 2018 to 2019. Wilcoxon-test was used for related samples. Results: Forty-five children were included in the study, aged 29-249 months of age, and most of them (64.4%) were males. Median ages at onset symptoms and at diagnosis were 6 and 73 months old, respectively. Specific antibody deficiency and unclassified hypogammaglobulinemia were the predominant diagnoses (31.1% and 17.8%, respectively). X-linked agammaglobulinemia, Hyper IgE syndrome, Hyper IgM, transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy, and Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) were also reported, in a low frequency. Forty-four (97.8%) patients were hospitalized before IVIG, and 10 patients (22.2%) after. Annual mean hospital admission reduced from 2.5 to 0.5, pre and post-IVIG, respectively (p < 0.0001). Mean length of stay (LOS) reduced from 71 to 4.7 days/year (p < 0.0001) in general ward and in the PICU from 17.2 days/year to zero (p < 0.0002). Pneumonia was the main cause of hospital admission with a reduction in the number of episodes per patient from an average of 2.2-0.1 per year (p < 0.001). Concomitant use of antibiotic prophylaxis did not influence the number of hospital admission. Conclusion: One-year intravenous IVIG significantly decreased the number of hospitalizations and length of stay in children with impaired antibody production. Social and economic impacts would be required.