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Siddiqui A, D'Amico A, Colafati GS, Cicala D, Talenti G, Rajput K, Pinelli L, D'Arco F. Hypothalamic malformations in patients with X-linked deafness and incomplete partition type 3. Neuroradiology 2019; 61:949-952. [PMID: 31177298 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-019-02230-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Patients with X-linked deafness carry mutations in the POU3F4 gene and have pathognomonic inner ear malformations characterised by symmetrical incomplete partition type 3 (absent modiolus and lamina spiralis but preserved interscalar septum in a normal-sized cochlea) and large internal auditory meatus (IAM) with an increased risk of gusher during stapes surgery. We describe a range of fairly characteristic malformations in the hypothalamus of some patients with this rare condition, ranging from subtle asymmetric appearance and thickening of the tuber cinereum to more marked hypothalamic enlargement. We discuss the role of POU3F4 in the normal development of both the inner ear and hypothalamus and the proposed pathophysiology of incomplete partition type 3.
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Cappuccio G, Pinelli M, Torella A, Vitiello G, D'Amico A, Alagia M, Del Giudice E, Nigro V, Brunetti-Pierri N. An extremely severe phenotype attributed to WDR81 nonsense mutations. Ann Neurol 2019; 82:650-651. [PMID: 28972664 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Cappuccio G, Ugga L, Parrini E, D'Amico A, Brunetti-Pierri N. Severe presentation and complex brain malformations in an individual carrying a CCND2 variant. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e708. [PMID: 31056854 PMCID: PMC6565554 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Megalencephaly‐polymicrogyria‐polydactyly‐hydrocephalus (MPPH) is a developmental brain disorder characterized by megalencephaly and bilateral perisylvian polymicrogyria due to defects in genes of the PI3K‐AKT pathway. Only a few patients with CCND2 mutations have been reported to date. Methods We describe an individual harboring a de novo variant in CCND2 undergoing neuroradiological evaluation including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Results The individual presented with a severe brain malformation extending to both brainstem and cerebellum with hypomyelination not previously reported in CCND2‐related disorder. Severe hypoplasia and white matter disorganization were confirmed by DTI. Conclusion This report expands the phenotypic spectrum of the disorder due to CCND2 variants.
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Stilo S, Ugga L, Russo C, Guadagno E, Del Basso De Caro ML, D'Amico A, Elefante A. B-cell central nervous system lymphoma developing in a patient with cerebral meningioangiomatosis. Radiol Case Rep 2019; 14:538-543. [PMID: 30976365 PMCID: PMC6443910 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Meningioangiomatosis is a rare congenital hamartomatous malformation of the leptomeninges that can also involve the adjacent cerebral tissue, sometime arising in association with neurofibromatosis. Here we report the case of a 55-year-old man with neuroradiological evidence of meningioangiomatosis, known to be a well-defined malformative-dysplastic lesion, preceding the onset of central nervous system B-cell lymphoma. We describe for the first time this unusual association, highlighting how meningioangiomatosis could accompany different pathologies more frequently than thought.
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Scala M, Torella A, Severino M, Morana G, Castello R, Accogli A, Verrico A, Vari MS, Cappuccio G, Pinelli M, Vitiello G, Terrone G, D'Amico A, Nigro V, Capra V. Three de novo DDX3X variants associated with distinctive brain developmental abnormalities and brain tumor in intellectually disabled females. Eur J Hum Genet 2019; 27:1254-1259. [PMID: 30936465 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-019-0392-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
De novo DDX3X variants account for 1-3% of syndromic intellectual disability (ID) in females and have been occasionally reported in males. Furthermore, somatic DDX3X variants occur in several aggressive cancers, including medulloblastoma. We report three unrelated females with severe ID, dysmorphic features, and a common brain malformative pattern characterized by malformations of cortical development, callosal dysgenesis, basal ganglia anomalies, and midbrain-hindbrain malformations. A pilocytic astrocytoma was incidentally diagnosed in Patient 1 and trigonocephaly was found in Patient 2. With the use of family based whole exome sequencing (WES), we identified three distinct de novo variants in DDX3X. These findings expand the phenotypic spectrum of DDX3X-related disorders, demonstrating unique neuroradiological features resembling those of the tubulinopathies, and support a role for DDX3X in neuronal development. Our observations further suggest a possible link between germline DDX3X variants and cancer development.
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D'Amico A, Ugga L, Cuocolo R, Cirillo M, Grandone A, Conforti R. Persisting Embryonal Infundibular Recess in Morning Glory Syndrome: Clinical Report of a Novel Association. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2019; 40:899-902. [PMID: 30846438 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Morning glory syndrome is characterized by a congenital optic disc defect that resembles the eponymous flower. We present the MR imaging findings of 2 pediatric patients with morning glory disc anomaly and persisting embryonal infundibular recess, another rare malformative finding, a previously unreported association. Neuroradiologists should be aware of the possible presence of a persisting embryonal infundibular recess in patients with morning glory syndrome, to aid in the differential diagnosis including other pituitary malformations such as pituitary stalk duplication.
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Oliva M, Capaldo G, D'Amico A, Colavito D, Elefante A, Straccia G, Ugga L, Puoti G. A novel SLC20A2 gene mutation causing primary familial brain calcification in an Ukrainian patient. Neurol Sci 2019; 40:1283-1285. [PMID: 30607525 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-018-3684-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tripathy R, Leca I, van Dijk T, Weiss J, van Bon BW, Sergaki MC, Gstrein T, Breuss M, Tian G, Bahi-Buisson N, Paciorkowski AR, Pagnamenta AT, Wenninger-Weinzierl A, Martinez-Reza MF, Landler L, Lise S, Taylor JC, Terrone G, Vitiello G, Del Giudice E, Brunetti-Pierri N, D'Amico A, Reymond A, Voisin N, Bernstein JA, Farrelly E, Kini U, Leonard TA, Valence S, Burglen L, Armstrong L, Hiatt SM, Cooper GM, Aldinger KA, Dobyns WB, Mirzaa G, Pierson TM, Baas F, Chelly J, Cowan NJ, Keays DA. Mutations in MAST1 Cause Mega-Corpus-Callosum Syndrome with Cerebellar Hypoplasia and Cortical Malformations. Neuron 2018; 100:1354-1368.e5. [PMID: 30449657 PMCID: PMC6436622 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Corpus callosum malformations are associated with a broad range of neurodevelopmental diseases. We report that de novo mutations in MAST1 cause mega-corpus-callosum syndrome with cerebellar hypoplasia and cortical malformations (MCC-CH-CM) in the absence of megalencephaly. We show that MAST1 is a microtubule-associated protein that is predominantly expressed in post-mitotic neurons and is present in both dendritic and axonal compartments. We further show that Mast1 null animals are phenotypically normal, whereas the deletion of a single amino acid (L278del) recapitulates the distinct neurological phenotype observed in patients. In animals harboring Mast1 microdeletions, we find that the PI3K/AKT3/mTOR pathway is unperturbed, whereas Mast2 and Mast3 levels are diminished, indicative of a dominant-negative mode of action. Finally, we report that de novo MAST1 substitutions are present in patients with autism and microcephaly, raising the prospect that mutations in this gene give rise to a spectrum of neurodevelopmental diseases.
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Dato C, Capaldo G, Terracciano C, Napolitano F, D'Amico A, Pappatà S, Santorelli FM, Di Iorio G, Sampaolo S, Melone MA. Late adult-onset adrenomyeloneuropathy evolving with atypical severe frontal lobe syndrome: Importance of neuroimaging. Radiol Case Rep 2018; 14:309-314. [PMID: 30546814 PMCID: PMC6282458 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is a rare inherited metabolic disease affecting the nervous system and the adrenal glands. It is caused by a mutation of the ABCD1 gene, resulting in the impaired degradation of very long-chain fatty acids and their subsequent accumulation in several organs and tissues. X-ALD is notable for its high phenotypical variability, that includes isolated adrenocortical insufficiency, slowly progressive myelopathy with paraparesis, ataxia, and peripheral neuropathy to severe childhood cerebral forms. Here, we describe the case of an X-ALD patient with a p.Gly343Val mutation in ABCD1 gene, who presented in adulthood with a spinal syndrome of mild severity, and later developed a progressive cognitive and behavioral syndrome. Our patient showed a striking correlation between clinical phenotype and neuroimaging, including a brain fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography that displayed an atypical cerebral glucose metabolism.
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Bertini E, Verrigni D, Battaglia D, Torraco A, Figa Talamanca L, Carrozzo R, Diodato D, D'Amico A, Papetti L, Ghezzi D, Ardissone A, Lamperti C, Legati A, Goffrini P. MITOCHONDRIAL DISEASES (Posters). Neuromuscul Disord 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2018.06.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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D'Amico A, Fattori F, Fiorillo C, Verardo M, Catteruccia M, Bellacchio E, Moggio M, Bruno C, Bertini E. CONGENITAL MYOPATHIES: NEMALINE AND TITINOPATHIES. Neuromuscul Disord 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2018.06.276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Saracino D, Allegorico L, Barbarulo AM, Pollo B, Giaccone G, D'Amico A, D'Incerti L, Bugiani O, Di Iorio G, Sampaolo S, Melone MAB. Neuro-Behçet's disease presenting as an isolated progressive cognitive and behavioral syndrome. Neurocase 2018; 24:238-241. [PMID: 30583716 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2018.1561898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Behçet's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder manifesting as a vasculitis that affects arteries and veins of any size. Up to 44% of cases may also present with neurological symptoms, thus defining Neuro-Behçet's disease. We describe a case of Neuro-Behçet's disease characterized by progressive behavioral and cognitive deterioration prevailing over other neurological symptoms, without evident systemic involvement.
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63
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Ugga L, Cuocolo R, Cocozza S, Ponsiglione A, Stanzione A, Chianca V, D'Amico A, Brunetti A, Imbriaco M. Spectrum of lytic lesions of the skull: a pictorial essay. Insights Imaging 2018; 9:845-856. [PMID: 30232766 PMCID: PMC6206388 DOI: 10.1007/s13244-018-0653-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Lytic lesions of the skull include a wide range of diseases, ranging from benign conditions such as arachnoid granulations or vascular lacunae, to aggressive malignant lesions such as lymphomas or metastases. An early and correct characterisation of the nature of the lesion is, therefore, crucial, in order to achieve a fast and appropriate treatment option. In this review, we present the radiological appearance of the most frequent lytic lesions of the skull, describing findings from different imaging modalities (plain X-rays, CT and MRI), with particular attention to diagnostic clues and differential diagnoses. Teaching Points • Osteolytic skull lesions may be challenging to diagnose. • Association of different imaging techniques may aid image interpretation. • Clinical information and extensive knowledge of possible differential diagnoses is essential. • Some osteolytic tumours, although benign, may present as locally aggressive lesions. • Malignant lesions require accurate staging, followed by variable treatment approaches.
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Nocella C, Cammisotto V, Fianchini L, D'Amico A, Novo M, Castellani V, Stefanini L, Violi F, Carnevale R. Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Cardiovascular Diseases: Benefits for Human Health. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2018; 18:4-13. [PMID: 29141571 DOI: 10.2174/1871530317666171114121533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The cardioprotective properties of Mediterranean Diet were demonstrated for the first time from the Seven Country Study. In the last few decades, numerous epidemiological studies, as well as intervention trial, confirmed this observation, pointing out the close relationship between the Mediterranean diet and cardiovascular diseases. In this context, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), the most representative component of this diet, seems to be relevant in lowering the incidence of cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke. From a chemical point of view, 98-99% of the total weight of EVOO is represented by fatty acids, especially monounsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid. Tocopherols, polyphenols and other minor constituents represent the remaining 1-2%. All these components may potentially contribute to "health maintenance" with their beneficial effects by EVOOO. METHODS Studies that examined the effect of EVOO supplementation in healthy subjects and in individuals at cardiovascular risk were included. CONCLUSION The studies analyzed demonstrated the role of EVOO as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and vasodilatory nutrient that may contribute to lower the atherosclerotic burden.
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Peretto G, Di Resta C, Perversi J, Forleo C, Maggi L, Previtali S, Politano L, Manzi RC, D'Amico A, Limongelli G, Ambrosi A, Ferrari M, Della Bella P, Sala S, Benedetti S. P3170Innovative approach for risk stratification of LMNA-related cardiomyopathy: results from an integrated cardiological and neurological 10-year follow-up multicentre study. Eur Heart J 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy563.p3170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Sansone VA, Pane M, Messina S, Bruno C, D'Amico A, Albamonte E, Catteruccia M, Sframeli M, Pedemonte M, Vita G, Bertini E, Mercuri E. A 5-center experience with intrathecal administration of nusinersen in SMA1 in Italy letter to the editor of european journal of pediatric neurology regarding the manuscript "single-center experience with intrathecal administration of nusinersen in children with spinal muscular atrophy type 1" written by pechmann and colleagues". Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:729-731. [PMID: 29673809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Russo C, Elefante A, Di Lullo AM, Carotenuto B, D'Amico A, Cavaliere M, Iengo M, Brunetti A. ADC Benchmark Range for Correct Diagnosis of Primary and Recurrent Middle Ear Cholesteatoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:7945482. [PMID: 29854790 PMCID: PMC5941773 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7945482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and in particular diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) have been broadly proven to be the reference imaging method to discriminate between cholesteatoma and noncholesteatomatous middle ear lesions, especially when high tissue specificity is required. The aim of this study is to define a range of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values within which the diagnosis of cholesteatoma is almost certain. METHODS The study was retrospectively conducted on a cohort of 124 patients. All patients underwent first- or second-look surgery because primary or secondary acquired cholesteatoma was clinically suspected; they all had preoperative MRI examination 15 days before surgery, including DWI from which the ADC maps were calculated. RESULTS Average ADC value for cholesteatomas was 859,4 × 10-6 mm2/s (range 1545 × 10-6 mm2/s; IQR = 362 × 10-6 mm2/s; σ = 276,3 × 10-6 mm2/s), while for noncholesteatomatous inflammatory lesions, it was 2216,3 × 10-6 mm2/s (range 1015 × 10-6 mm2/s; IQR = 372,75 × 10-6 mm2/s; σ = 225,6 × 10-6 mm2/s). Interobserver agreement with Fleiss' Kappa statistics was 0,96. No overlap between two groups' range of values was found and the difference was statistically significant for p < 0.0001. CONCLUSIONS We propose an interval of ADC values that should represent an appropriate benchmark range for a correct differentiation between cholesteatoma and granulation tissue or fibrosis of noncholesteatomatous inflammatory lesions.
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Carnevale R, Nocella C, Cammisotto V, Bartimoccia S, Monticolo R, D'Amico A, Stefanini L, Pagano F, Pastori D, Cangemi R, Violi F. Antioxidant activity from extra virgin olive oil via inhibition of hydrogen peroxide-mediated NADPH-oxidase 2 activation. Nutrition 2018; 55-56:36-40. [PMID: 29960154 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2018.03.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) supplementation is associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. METHODS In platelets that were taken from healthy subjects (n = 5), agonist-induced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) activation in the presence of or without catalase, which catabolizes H2O2, were investigated. Platelet H2O2 production, NOX2 activation, EVOO vitamin E, and total polyphenols as well as EVOO's ability to scavenge H2O2 were also measured. RESULTS Platelet NOX2 activation and H2O2 production were significantly inhibited in catalase-treated platelets and platelets that were incubated with five different EVOOs. The EVOO content of vitamin E was 53 to 223 mg/kg and total polyphenols 145 to 392 mg/L Gallic acid equivalent. EVOOs quenched in vitro H2O2 by 39 to 62%, which is an effect that is significantly correlated with vitamin E and total polyphenol concentrations (R = 0.688; P <0.001 and R = 0.541; P <0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This in vitro study provides the first evidence that EVOO downregulates platelet H2O2 and in turn NOX2 activity via H2O2 scavenging.
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Fattori F, Fiorillo C, Rodolico C, Tasca G, Verardo M, Bellacchio E, Pizzi S, Ciolfi A, Fagiolari G, Lupica A, Broda P, Pedemonte M, Moggio M, Bruno C, Tartaglia M, Bertini E, D'Amico A. Expanding the histopathological spectrum of CFL2
-related myopathies. Clin Genet 2018; 93:1234-1239. [DOI: 10.1111/cge.13240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Cangemi R, Carnevale R, Nocella C, Calvieri C, Cammisotto V, Novo M, Castellani V, D'Amico A, Zerbinati C, Stefanini L, Violi F. Glucocorticoids impair platelet thromboxane biosynthesis in community-acquired pneumonia. Pharmacol Res 2018; 131:66-74. [PMID: 29577968 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Previous reports suggest that community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is associated with an enhanced risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and that enhanced platelet activation may play a role. Aims of this study were to investigate if urinary excretion of 11-dehydro-thromboxane (Tx) B2, a reliable marker of platelet activation in vivo, was elevated in CAP and whether glucocorticoid administration reduced platelet activation. Three-hundred patients hospitalized for CAP were recruited and followed-up until discharge. Within the first 2 days from admission, urinary 11-dehydro-TxB2 and serum levels of methylprednisolone and betamethasone were measured. 11-Dehydro-TxB2 was also measured in a control group of 150 outpatients, matched for age, sex, and comorbidities. Finally, in-vitro studies were performed to assess if glucocorticoids affected platelet activation, at the same range of concentration found in the peripheral circulation of CAP patients treated with glucocorticoids. Compared to controls, CAP patients showed significantly higher levels of 11-dehydro-TxB2 (110 [69-151] vs. 163 [130-225] pg/mg creatinine; p < 0.001). During the in-hospital stay, 31 patients experienced MI (10%). A COX regression analysis showed that 11-dehydro-TxB2 independently predicted MI (p = .005). CAP patients treated with glucocorticoids showed significantly lower levels of 11-dehydro-TxB2 compared to untreated ones (147 [120-201] vs. 176 [143-250] pg/mg creatinine; p < 0.001). In vitro, glucocorticoids-treated platelets showed a dose-dependent decrease of ADP-induced platelet aggregation, TxB2 production, cPLA2 phosphorylation and arachidonic acid release from the platelet membrane. In conclusion, platelet TxB2 is overproduced in CAP patients and may be implicated in MI occurrence. Glucocorticoids reduce platelet release of TxB2 in vitro and urinary excretion of 11-dehydro-TxB2 in vivo and may be a novel tool to decrease platelet activation in this setting.
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Caranci F, Tedeschi E, Ugga L, D'Amico A, Schipani S, Bartollino S, Russo C, Splendiani A, Briganti F, Zappia M, Melone MAB, Masciocchi C, Brunese L. Magnetic Resonance Imaging correlates of benign and malignant alterations of the spinal bone marrow. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:18-33. [PMID: 29350635 PMCID: PMC6179071 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background and aim of the work: Bone marrow (BM) abnormalities in the spine are a common, sometimes unexpected, finding on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which is the most sensitive imaging modality to evaluate the marrow, and their interpretation can be difficult for the unexperienced radiologist. In this review, the MRI appearance of normal age-related BM changes, as well as the imaging features of benign and malignant diseases, are presented. Discussion: A large variety of BM signal alterations has been identified and described, including normal variants, BM reconversion, degenerative changes, infections, spondyloarthritis and osteonecrosis, trauma, neoplastic lesions (both primary or metastatic), post-radiation and chemotherapy sequelae. Conclusions: Knowledge of normal age-related BM appearance, normal variants and patterns of involvement in focal and diffuse bone diseases is essential, together with clinical and laboratory data, to narrow the list of the possible differential diagnoses. The radiologist should be familiar with these signal changes, as they can sometimes be discovered incidentally. In this context, it is equally important not to attribute pathological significance to benign alterations and to promptly detect signs of malignant diseases. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Farina E, Baglio F, Pomati S, D'Amico A, Campini IC, Di Tella S, Belloni G, Pozzo T. The Mirror Neurons Network in Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Alzheimer Disease: A functional MRI Study. Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:371. [PMID: 29249956 PMCID: PMC5715339 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the current study is to investigate the integrity of the Mirror Neurons (MN) network in normal aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer disease (AD). Although AD and MCI are considered “cognitive” diseases, there has been increasing recognition of a link between motor function and AD. More recently the embodied cognition hypothesis has also been developed: it postulates that a part of cognition results from the coupling between action and perception representations. MN represent a neuronal population which links perception, action, and cognition, therefore we decided to characterize MN functioning in neurodegenerative cognitive decline. Three matched groups of 16 subjects (normal elderly-NE, amnesic MCI with hippocampal atrophy and AD) were evaluated with a focused neuropsychological battery and an fMRI task specifically created to test MN: that comprised of an observation run, where subjects were shown movies of a right hand grasping different objects, and of a motor run, where subjects observed visual pictures of objects oriented to be grasped with the right hand. In NE subjects, the conjunction analysis (comparing fMRI activation during observation and execution), showed the activation of a bilateral fronto-parietal network in “classical” MN areas, and of the superior temporal gyrus (STG). The MCI group showed the activation of areas belonging to the same network, however, parietal areas were activated to a lesser extent and the STG was not activated, while the opposite was true for the right Broca's area. We did not observe any activation of the fronto-parietal network in AD participants. They did not perform as well as the NE subjects in all the neuropsychological tests (including tests of functions attributed to MN) whereas the MCI subjects were significantly different from the NE subjects only in episodic memory and semantic fluency. Here we show that the MN network is largely preserved in aging, while it appears involved following an anterior-posterior gradient in neurodegenerative decline. In AD, task performance decays and the MN network appears clearly deficient. The preservation of the anterior part of the MN network in MCI could possibly supplement the initial decay of the posterior part, preserving cognitive performance.
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Terrone G, Vitiello G, Genesio R, D'Amico A, Imperati F, Ugga L, Giugliano T, Piluso G, Nitsch L, Brunetti-Pierri N, Del Giudice E. A novel SHANK3 interstitial microdeletion in a family with intellectual disability and brain MRI abnormalities resembling Unidentified Bright Objects. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2017; 21:902-906. [PMID: 28754298 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND SHANK3 mutations are responsible for Phelan-McDermid syndrome but they are also associated with autism and/or intellectual disability. CASE REPORT We report a family with four affected individuals including the 37 year-old mother, her 12 year-old male monozygotic twins and 8 year-old daughter harboring a novel SHANK3 interstitial microdeletion. All four members presented with intellectual disability of variable severity. The twins showed brain abnormalities similar to Unidentified Bright Objects (UBOs), typically detected in patients with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), but they did not display causative mutations in NF1 gene. CONCLUSION To date, this is the first report of an affected individual with SHANK3 interstitial deletion able to reproduce. Moreover, we found a previously unreported possible association between SHANK3 deletion and UBOs-like lesions in the brain.
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Annoussamy M, Lilien C, Gidaro T, Gargaun E, Chê V, Schara U, D'Amico A, Daron A, Cuisset J, Mayer M, Hernandez A, Vuillerot C, Fontaine S, de Lattre C, Bellance R, Biancalana V, Buj-Bello A, Hogrel J, Landy H, Servais L. Longitudinal data of patients with myotubular myopathy enrolled in a European prospective and longitudinal natural history study. Neuromuscul Disord 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2017.06.280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Catteruccia M, Colia G, Bonetti A, Carlesi A, Oggiano L, La Rosa G, Turturro F, Bertini E, Bertini E, D'Amico A. Scoliosis is an inescapable comorbidity in SMA type II. A single center experience. Neuromuscul Disord 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2017.06.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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