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Bilavsky E, Horesh Z, Amir J, Bar-On E, Harel L. Treatment of Achilles tendon calcinosis in juvenile dermatomyositis with external ilizarov fixator. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2007; 25:763-765. [PMID: 18078630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Calcinosis is a devastating complication of juvenile dermatomyositis and a challenging therapeutic problem. We report the use of an external Ilizarov fixator for the treatment of Achilles tendon calcinosis causing severe disability in a young girl with juvenile dermatomyositis.
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Uziel Y, Gorodnitski N, Mukamel M, Padeh S, Brik R, Barash J, Mevorach D, Berkun Y, Tauber T, Press J, Harel L, Navon P, Rubenstein M, Naparstek Y, Hashkes PJ. Outcome of a national Israeli cohort of pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2007; 16:142-6. [PMID: 17402372 DOI: 10.1177/0961203306075385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the clinical manifestations and outcomes of a national cohort of childhood systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE). All cases of cSLE registered in the Israeli national registry of children with rheumatic diseases between 1987-2003 were examined for disease activity and damage by the SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) and SLE collaborating clinics/American College of Rheumatology (SLICC/ACR) damage index. Demographic, clinical, laboratory and treatment factors were analysed for their effect on the outcome. One-hundred and two patients were identified, 81% females, with a mean age at diagnosis of 13.3 +/- 2.6 years. The mean SLEDAI score was 17.2 +/- 9.0 (range 2-60). Fifty four patients were followed for at least five years. The mean SLEDAI decreased to 7.6 +/- 6.3 (0-29) and the mean SLICC/ACR damage index was 0.7 +/- 1.6 (0-8). Five patients developed chronic renal failure. No patients died. No factors were found to be significantly associated with the outcome except the initial SLEDAI score. The five-year outcome of our national cSLE cohort was good; with relatively low activity and minimal damage in most patients. The initial SLEDAI predicted the development of late damage.
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Kaplan E, Mukamel M, Barash J, Brik R, Padeh S, Berkun Y, Uziel Y, Tauber T, Amir J, Harel L. Protracted febrile myalgia in children and young adults with familial Mediterranean fever: analysis of 15 patients and suggested criteria for working diagnosis. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2007; 25:S114-S117. [PMID: 17949564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To present an analysis of patients with protracted febrile myalgia (PFM), a rarely reported manifestation of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), and propose clinical criteria for working diagnosis. METHODS A multicenter retrospective cohort study of children with PFM was performed. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained by medical record review. RESULTS The study group included 15 patients with PFM. PFM occurred as the presenting sign of FMF in 33%. FMF was diagnosed clinically in all and by genetic analysis in 93%. M694V allelic involvement was noted in 93% of the patients. PFM occurred at a mean age of 9 +/- 3.4 years and was characterized by severe generalized muscle pain in all patients and fever in 71%. Mean duration up to diagnosis was 15.5 +/- 6 days. Mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 104 +/- 26 mm/h; mean C-reactive protein was 15.4 +/- 6.3 mg%. Creatine kinase was normal. Treatment included corticosteroids (4 patients) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (9 patients) with a symptomatic relief achieved at a mean of 7.7 +/- 4.3 days and 5 +/- 3.8 days, respectively (p = 0.14) (mean severity score 3 and 2.2, respectively, p = 0.075). Symptomatic relief in 2 untreated patients was achieved at a mean of 45.5 days. CONCLUSION Based on our data, we propose criteria for working diagnosis including: severe disabling myalgia of at least 5 days in a young patient with FMF, associated with fever, elevated levels of inflammatory markers and presence of at least one M694V mutation.
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Berkun Y, Padeh S, Barash J, Uziel Y, Harel L, Mukamel M, Revel-Vilk S, Kenet G. Antiphospholipid syndrome and recurrent thrombosis in children. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 55:850-5. [PMID: 17139660 DOI: 10.1002/art.22360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Few studies have addressed antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) among children. Our aims were to analyze the clinical and laboratory manifestations in a pediatric APS cohort and to assess the influence of inherited thrombophilia factors on the outcome of children with APS. METHODS This was a multicenter study of children with APS who had no previous systemic autoimmune disease. We retrospectively reviewed their clinical and laboratory data, including hereditary thrombophilic deficits and outcomes. RESULTS The cohort comprised 28 patients (17 females, mean +/- SD age at onset 10.6 +/- 6.1 years). The most common initial manifestations of APS were venous thrombosis, stroke, and thrombocytopenia. Lupus anticoagulant was detected in 96% of those tested. After a mean +/- SD followup of 5.7 +/- 4.8 years, 16 children (57.1%) had central nervous system disease, 9 exhibited hematologic involvement, and 5 (all females) had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). None had renal, heart, or new skin disease. Seven of 24 patients exhibiting vascular thrombotic events had recurrences. Infants with perinatal stroke had monophasic disease, and other manifestations of APS did not develop later. Hereditary thrombophilia was more common in children who experienced a single episode of APS (8 [53.3%] of 15 patients) than in those who experienced recurrences (2 [28.6%] of 7 patients). However, only 2 patients in the latter group (28.6%) received anticoagulants after the first manifestation, compared with 12 (70.6%) of the 17 patients without recurrences. CONCLUSION APS in children has unique features. SLE may develop in a significant percentage of girls presenting with APS. Hereditary thrombophilia did not predict recurrent thrombosis, whereas the preventive impact of anticoagulant treatment following the first thrombotic event was noteworthy.
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Lussier S, Bairati I, Sackett M, Jobin E, Harel L, Popa I, Hamel G, Têtu B. Corrélation entre l’expression immunohistochimique du EGFR et le pronostic des patients atteints d’un cancer du larynx glottique traité par radiothérapie : une étude préliminaire. Ann Pathol 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s0242-6498(06)70681-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Prais D, Straussberg R, Avitzur Y, Nussinovitch M, Harel L, Amir J. Bacterial susceptibility to oral antibiotics in community acquired urinary tract infection. Arch Dis Child 2003; 88:215-8. [PMID: 12598381 PMCID: PMC1719471 DOI: 10.1136/adc.88.3.215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most common oral antibiotics used in the treatment of urinary tract infection (UTI) are sulphonamides and cephalosporins, but emerging resistance is not unusual. AIMS To assess the change in susceptibility of urinary pathogens to oral antibiotics during the past decade in children with community acquired UTI. METHODS The study sample included two groups of children with a first community acquired UTI: 142 children enrolled in 1991 and 124 enrolled in 1999. UTI was diagnosed by properly collected urine specimen (suprapubic aspiration, transurethral catheterisation, or midstream specimen in circumcised males) in symptomatic patients. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was compared between the two groups. RESULTS The pathogens recovered in the two groups were similar: in 1991--E coli 86%, Klebsiella 6%, others 8%; in 1999--E coli 82%, Klebsiella 13%, and others 5%. A slight but generalised decrease in bacterial susceptibility to common antibiotics in the two groups was shown: ampicillin 35% versus 30%; cephalexin 82% versus 63% (p < 0.001); nitrofurantoin 93% versus 92%. The only exception was co-trimoxazole, 60% versus 69%. Overall resistance to antibiotics in 1999 was as follows: ampicillin 70%, cephalexin 37%, co-trimoxazole 31%, amoxicillin-clavulanate 24%, nitrofurantoin 8%, cefuroxime-axetil 5%, nalidixic acid 3%. CONCLUSIONS This study shows a slight but generalised decrease in bacterial susceptibility to common oral antibiotics in the past decade in our population. Empirical initial treatment with co-trimoxazole or cephalexin is inadequate in approximately one third of UTI cases. A larger number of pathogens may be empirically treated with amoxicillin-clavulanate (24% resistance); 95% of organisms are susceptible to cefuroxime-axetil.
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Straussberg R, Shorer Z, Weitz R, Basel L, Kornreich L, Corie CI, Harel L, Djaldetti R, Amir J. Familial infantile bilateral striatal necrosis: clinical features and response to biotin treatment. Neurology 2002; 59:983-9. [PMID: 12374138 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.59.7.983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infantile bilateral striatal necrosis (IBSN) encompasses several syndromes of bilateral symmetric, spongy degeneration of the caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus. The familial form of IBSN is rare, and inheritance is either autosomal recessive or maternal. METHOD The authors describe an Israeli Bedouin kindred in which 15 children born to consanguineous parents were affected with familial IBSN. They evaluated the clinical and radiologic evolution of the disease in 11 patients and the cerebral pathologic findings in one patient. Three of the children were treated with oral biotin 100 mg/day. RESULTS Inheritance was apparently autosomal recessive. The untreated children had a similar clinical picture including developmental arrest beginning at the age of 7 to 15 months, choreoathetosis, and dysphagia. Pendular nystagmus appeared at a late stage. MRI, performed at various stages of the disease, showed severe basal ganglia atrophy. Postmortem study in one patient showed severe atrophy of the lenticular nuclei with gliosis and loss of neurons. Biotin, 100 mg/day, administered to the proband over a period of 15 months, may have slowed progression. In two other children treatment was initiated earlier and appeared to arrest or improve disease. CONCLUSIONS Familial infantile bilateral striatal necrosis was inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. Clinical features included developmental arrest, dysphagia, and choreoathetosis. Imaging and pathology showed atrophy and degeneration of the basal ganglia. Oral biotin may have benefited three children.
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Finkelstein Y, Moran O, Avitzur Y, Nussinovitch M, Harel L, Volovitz B, Amir J. Clinical dysentery in hospitalized children. Infection 2002; 30:132-5. [PMID: 12120936 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-002-2166-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical dysentery is a severe presentation of an enteric infection. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of a serious bacterial etiology in clinical dysentery in hospitalized children and determine if children at high risk can be identified on the basis of clinical or laboratory parameters. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective study design was used. The study population included 60 children admitted to our department with clinical dysentery over a 16-month period. Fresh stool specimens were collected on days 1, 2 and 3. The clinical and laboratory data of the children were analyzed. RESULTS Clinical dysentery accounted for 1.7% of all pediatric hospitalizations during this period. Stool cultures were positive for Shigella spp. in 18 children (30%), and Salmonella spp. in 15 children (25%), Campylobacter jejuni was identified in one patient (2%). There were no significant differences in clinical characteristics or laboratory parameters between children with positive and negative stool cultures. CONCLUSION 40% of the children hospitalized for clinical dysentery were eligible for antibiotic treatment. Early administration of empiric antibiotic treatment is justified in children hospitalized for clinical dysentery in Israel. Clinical or laboratory parameters were unable to differentiate those with clinical dysentery at risk of serous bacterial pathogens in stool.
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Harel L, Zeharia A, Kodman Y, Straussberg R, Zabriskie JB, Amir J. Presence of the d8/17 B-cell marker in children with rheumatic fever in Israel. Clin Genet 2002; 61:293-8. [PMID: 12030895 DOI: 10.1034/j.1399-0004.2002.610409.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A genetic predisoposition to rheumatic fever (RF) has been suspected by several researchers. Ten years ago, using monoclonal antibodies, the B-cell alloantigen D8/17 was identified in 90-100% of patients with RF. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the marker is found in patients with RF in Israel, where the population is made up of diverse ethnic groups. The Schneider Children's Medical Center in Petah Tikva, Israel, was the setting for this study. The population included 22 children with RF and nine ethnically matched, disease-free individuals who served as controls. Each of the patients and controls were tested for the B-cell antigen with flow cytometry assay by using monoclonal antibodies. The main outcome measure was the difference in the presence of the D8/17 B-cell marker between the patients with RF and the controls. The mean percentage of B-cells expressing the marker was 11.5 +/- 2.9 in the patients and 4.24 +/- 2.7 in the controls (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of the marker by ethnic origin. The present results support earlier studies suggesting that D8/17 is a disease-specific marker with a world-wide distribution which may potentially serve as an additional diagnostic tool in patients with suspected RF.
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Abstract
Venepuncture of the superficial veins in the forearm is considered a relatively safe procedure. We report two patients who presented with osteomyelitis of the proximal radius following venous cannulation of the median cubital vein, and one patient who developed osteomyelitis of the distal radius after cannulation of the cephalic vein. Osteomyelitis developing in proximity to a venepuncture site should raise the suspicion that a pathogen causing superficial thrombophlebitis has spread through the deep veins of the arm into the adjacent bone, thus causing osteomyelitis.
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Straussberg R, Harel L, Amir J. Long-Term outcome of neonatal Citrobacter koseri (diversus) meningitis treated with imipenem/meropenem and surgical drainage. Infection 2001; 29:280-2. [PMID: 11688908 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-001-1136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal Citrobacter koseri (diversus) meningitis is often complicated by the formation of brain abscesses and has a poor neurological outcome with seizures, mental retardation and paresis as sequelae in 50% of the cases. As there is emerging resistance to ampicillin, gentamicin and third-generation cephalosporins, we attempted to treat this infection with carbapenems. Carbapenems in combination with cefotaxime and surgical drainage may play an important role in treating C. koseri meningitis.
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Amir J, Nussinovitch M, Straussberg R, Harel L. Bacteremia with group A Streptococcus associated with herpetic gingivostomatitis. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2001; 20:916-7. [PMID: 11734779 DOI: 10.1097/00006454-200109000-00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Straussberg R, Harel L, Levy Y, Amir J. A syndrome of transient encephalopathy associated with adenovirus infection. Pediatrics 2001; 107:E69. [PMID: 11331719 DOI: 10.1542/peds.107.5.e69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Adenovirus is a common pathogen in the pediatric population. Respiratory, gastrointestinal, or renal systems are often involved in adenovirus infections. Several neurologic syndromes have been attributed to adenovirus, such as adenovirus aseptic meningitis, myelitis, subacute focal encephalitis, and Reye-like syndrome. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical features and encephalography findings in 7 infants treated in our center for a syndrome of transient encephalopathy associated with adenovirus infection. STUDY PARTICIPANTS Three females and 4 males ages 7 to 34 months seen in our department between July 1983 and February 1984 and September 1998 and May 1999 presented with fever of at least 7 days' duration and a gradual decline in the state of alertness. Score on the Glasgow Coma Scale ranged from 9 to 12. Findings on lumbar puncture were normal. In all 7 patients, the encephalogram showed moderate to severe background slowing compatible with encephalopathy. All patients were catarrheal and had mild hepatomegaly with slight elevation of liver enzymes. Some had bronchopneumonia, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis either isolated or in combination. METHODS AND RESULTS Adenovirus was isolated by immunfluorescence technique in all patients-from the sputum in 3 patients, nasopharynx in 5, conjunctiva in 4, and rectal swab in 5. In 5 patients, serotyping was performed by an antibody neutralization method. Adenovirus type 3 was ascertained from a nasal swab in 1 patient, sputum specimens in 3, throat swab in 3, and rectal cultures in 5. The clinical course was characterized by a progressive recovery of alertness. After several days, there was a complete reversal of neurologic findings. CONCLUSION We suggest that this syndrome of transient encephalopathy is a distinct entity and should be considered as another of the several neurologic syndromes known to be associated with adenovirus infection.
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Harel L, Harel G, Korenreich L, Straussberg R, Amir J. Treatment of calcinosis in juvenile dermatomyositis with probenecid: the role of phosphorus metabolism in the development of calcifications. J Rheumatol 2001; 28:1129-32. [PMID: 11361202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the efficacy of probenecid for calcinosis of juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) and assess the changes in phosphorus metabolism during treatment. METHODS Biochemical studies of calcium and phosphorus metabolism were performed in a 9-year-old girl with JDM and extensive calcifications before and during probenecid treatment. RESULTS The calcifications resolved over 18 months of treatment. Probenecid was found to be effective in reducing calcifications by increasing renal phosphate clearance. CONCLUSIONS The tendency for calcifications in some patients with JDM might be related to an increase in renal phosphate reclamation, and therefore, probenecid treatment may be effective in these patients.
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Volovitz B, Nussinovitch M, Finkelstein Y, Harel L, Varsano I. Effectiveness of inhaled corticosteroids in controlling acute asthma exacerbations in children at home. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2001; 40:79-86. [PMID: 11261454 DOI: 10.1177/000992280104000203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many clinicians advise their patients to increase the dose of inhaled corticosteroids during acute asthma exacerbations, without strong clinical evidence supporting this treatment. This study investigates the effectiveness of inhaled corticosteroids in controlling acute asthma exacerbations in children at home. The study population consisted of children with mild intermittent, mild and moderate persistent asthma aged 1 to 14 years who were treated in our outpatient clinic with inhaled budesonide for 1 year. After participating in an asthma education session, the parents were instructed to initiate treatment with inhaled budesonide at the first signs of asthma exacerbation, starting with 200 to 400 microg budesonide, in combination with beta-2 agonists 4 times a day and followed by a decrease in the dose in 4 to 8 days. Asthma status and peak expiratory flow rates were measured in the 3 monthly follow-up visits. Only children who complied with the treatment regimen and came for follow-up visits regularly were included in the final analysis. One hundred fifty children used our treatment protocol with inhaled budesonide to control their asthma attacks. Clinical improvement of asthma symptoms was achieved after a mean of 1.8 +/- 0.7 days from the beginning of treatment. The parents were able to control 94% of the 1,061 episodes of asthma exacerbation occurring during a cumulative follow-up period of 239 years. In the 3-month period before enrollment, 101 children (67%) had used oral corticosteroids to control their asthma attacks and 50 (33%) were hospitalized. During the entire follow-up period, only 11 children (7%) used oral corticosteroids, and none of the children were hospitalized. The present study demonstrates that children with asthma can control their exacerbations at home using inhaled corticosteroids (budesonide). Treatment, starting with relatively high doses followed by a rapid reduction in dose over 4-8 days, resulted in a decrease in the use of oral steroids and in hospitalization. To achieve good results, patient compliance is essential.
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Straussberg R, Schonfeld T, Weitz R, Karmazyn B, Harel L. Improvement of atypical acute disseminated encephalomyelitis with steroids and intravenous immunoglobulins. Pediatr Neurol 2001; 24:139-43. [PMID: 11275464 DOI: 10.1016/s0887-8994(00)00229-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is a demyelinating syndrome that occurs infrequently in children. Various treatment modalities, such as plasmapheresis or steroids or intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), have been prescribed. The article describes the results of combined IVIG and high-dose steroids given for 3 days in the treatment of a patient with atypical encephalomyelitis. The results suggest that this approach may be more beneficial than the application of either drug alone.
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Straussberg R, Amir J, Harel L, Punsky I, Bessler H. Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in children with febrile convulsions. Pediatr Neurol 2001; 24:49-53. [PMID: 11182281 DOI: 10.1016/s0887-8994(00)00234-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The production of interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and IL-10 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells was examined in 13 children with and 11 children without any history of febrile convulsions. The results revealed an increase in all types of cytokine production by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated mononuclear cells from individuals of both groups. However, the secretion of IL-6 and IL-10 in response to lipopolysaccharide was higher in those with a previous history of convulsions. Because IL-1 beta production precedes that of IL-10, a cytokine known to suppress IL-1 beta generation, it is possible that its secretion was inhibited partially by the significantly higher amount of IL-10 found after 24 hours of incubation. If this were the case, these findings may explain the comparable levels of IL-1 beta produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells from children of both groups. The higher level of IL-1 beta produced by mononuclear cells from children with history of convulsion after 5 hours of incubation with lipopolysaccharide supports this assumption.
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Bar-Sever Z, Mukamel M, Harel L, Hardoff R. Scintigraphic evaluation of calcinosis in juvenile dermatomyositis with Tc-99m MDP. Clin Nucl Med 2000; 25:1013-6. [PMID: 11129136 DOI: 10.1097/00003072-200012000-00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Two children with juvenile dermatomyositis and extensive, debilitating soft tissue calcifications are described. Whole-body bone scans with Tc-99m MDP were performed in both cases before and during specific treatment for the calcinosis. Baseline studies showed marked tracer localization in the soft tissues and provided an objective baseline assessment of the extent of the soft tissue calcifications. Follow-up studies showed gradual clearance of the extraskeletal uptake and were useful in monitoring the therapeutic response. These cases show that skeletal scintigraphy can function as a useful auxiliary tool to evaluate calcinosis in children with juvenile dermatomyositis.
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Abstract
We present a child with complete biotinidase deficiency who developed bilateral sensorineural deafness without a response to a maximal stimulus of 90 dB in brainstem acoustic-evoked response. After treatment with 20 mg biotin daily, a repeated brainstem acoustic-evoked response demonstrated an improved hearing threshold of 65 dB, and the child began to talk. The case is a rare example of reversible hearing loss caused by to biotinidase deficiency and highlights the need for immediate replacement therapy once the diagnosis is established.
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Harel L, Zecharia A, Straussberg R, Volovitz B, Amir J. Successful treatment of rheumatic chorea with carbamazepine. Pediatr Neurol 2000; 23:147-51. [PMID: 11020640 DOI: 10.1016/s0887-8994(00)00177-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Carbamazepine has been used successfully in the treatment of different movement disorders and was recently reported to be effective for nonhereditary chorea. In view of the significant side effects associated with the drugs currently used to treat chorea, we sought to further evaluate the efficacy of carbamazepine in children with rheumatic chorea. The study was prospective and included 10 children with chorea (eight females and two males; age range = 7-16 years) referred to our Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic between 1995 and 1999. Nine had rheumatic fever and one had antiphospholipid antibody syndrome that later evolved to systemic lupus erythematosus. All were treated with carbamazepine. Improvement was evident within 2-14 days of initiation of low doses of carbamazepine (4-10 mg/kg daily). The plasma drug levels were 2.8-8.2 microg/mL (therapeutic antiepileptic range = 8-12 microg/mL). The chorea disappeared within 2-12 weeks. The duration of treatment was 1-15 months. No side effects were observed. Recurrence was observed in three patients who received a second trial of carbamazepine with a good response. We suggest that carbamazepine may serve as a first-line treatment for rheumatic chorea.
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Harel L. Rheumatic fever: a never-ending story? THE ISRAEL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION JOURNAL : IMAJ 2000; 2:480-1. [PMID: 10897245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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Straussberg R, Harel L, Ben-Amitai D, Cohen D, Amir J. Carbamazepine-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome treated with IV steroids and IVIG. Pediatr Neurol 2000; 22:231-3. [PMID: 10734256 DOI: 10.1016/s0887-8994(99)00137-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A 17-year-old female is presented who developed antiepileptic drug hypersensitivity syndrome after treatment with carbamazepine. The initial diagnoses were idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and toxic shock syndrome. The patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and intravenous steroids. After a severe climax on days 2-4 she recovered completely and was discharged on the eighth day of hospitalization. Although we do not have direct proof, we believe that these treatment modalities, especially the IVIG, shortened and ameliorated the clinical course of the disease.
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Harel L, Straussberg R, Rudich H, Cohen AH, Amir J. Raynaud's phenomenon as a manifestation of parvovirus B19 infection: case reports and review of parvovirus B19 rheumatic and vasculitic syndromes. Clin Infect Dis 2000; 30:500-3. [PMID: 10722434 DOI: 10.1086/313712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with human parvovirus B19 is manifested as erythema infectiosum, transient aplastic crisis, or hydrops fetalis. Rheumatic manifestations include arthropathy and various vasculitic syndromes. Isolated Raynaud's phenomenon due to parvovirus B19 has never been described. We report on 2 previously healthy sisters with new-onset Raynaud's phenomenon accompanied by severe generalized polyarthralgia. A full workup was negative, except serology for parvovirus B19, which was positive. All symptoms gradually subsided within 3-5 months, and no recurrence has been noted during the 3 years since onset. We review all the studies in the English-language literature on parvovirus B19-induced rheumatic and vasculitic syndromes. We hypothesize that the pathogenesis of Raynaud's phenomenon in our patients involved immune-mediated endothelial damage leading to platelet activation and vasoconstriction. We recommend that in cases of unexplained Raynaud's phenomenon, serology for parvovirus B19 be included in the evaluation.
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Harel L, Kornreich L, Ashkenazi S, Rachmel A, Karmazyn B, Amir J. Meyer dysplasia in the differential diagnosis of hip disease in young children. ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRICS & ADOLESCENT MEDICINE 1999; 153:942-5. [PMID: 10482209 DOI: 10.1001/archpedi.153.9.942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe a rare developmental disorder of the femoral capital epiphysis in infants and children that is often misdiagnosed and to suggest an evaluation protocol to differentiate it from other hip problems. DESIGN Case series. SETTING Tertiary care center. SUBJECTS Five consecutive patients referred for evaluation of acute onset of limping between January 1990 and December 1997. INTERVENTION All clinical and imaging data were collected. RESULTS Two of the 5 patients were initially diagnosed as having osteomyelitis and 3 as having Perthes disease. The diagnosis of Meyer dysplasia was confirmed by plain film of the pelvis, a negative bone scan, or normal bone marrow findings on magnetic resonance imaging. The limping resolved without treatment in all patients within 1 to 3 weeks. CONCLUSIONS Meyer dysplasia is a benign condition that should be included in the differential diagnosis of hip disease in infants and children. Awareness of this condition may prevent unnecessary hospitalization and treatment.
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Amir J, Harel L, Smetana Z, Varsano I. The natural history of primary herpes simplex type 1 gingivostomatitis in children. Pediatr Dermatol 1999; 16:259-63. [PMID: 10469407 DOI: 10.1046/j.1525-1470.1999.00072.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Herpetic gingivostomatitis is the most common specific clinical manifestation of primary herpes simplex infection in childhood. The aim of the present study was to describe the clinical signs, symptoms, viral shedding, serologic findings, and complications in community-acquired gingivostomatitis. We prospectively followed children with herpes simplex type 1 gingivostomatitis lasting less than 72 hours. Clinical examination and viral culture were repeated every 2 to 3 days as long as symptoms or signs persisted. Thirty-six children (ages 12-77 months) were included in the study. Mean duration of oral lesions was 12.0+/-3.4 days; extraoral lesions (in 26 children), 12.0 +/-3.9 days; fever, 4.4+/-2.4 days; and eating/drinking difficulties, 9.1+/-3.0 and 7.1+/-3.1 days, respectively. In all children, viral cultures of the oral lesions were positive for herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1; viral shedding persisted for a mean of 7.1+/-2.5 days (range 2-12 days). The main complications were dehydration, with three children hospitalized for intravenous rehydration, and one case of secondary bacteremia. Herpetic gingivostomatitis is a relatively severe manifestation of primary HSV type 1 infection in young children.
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