Mosaicism in the alpha-like protein genes of group B streptococci

Members of a family of repeat-containing surface proteins of group B streptococci (GBS) defined by the alpha C and Rib proteins exhibit size variability and cross-reactivity and have been studied as potential vaccine components. We report evidence of horizontal DNA transfer with subsequent recombination as a mechanism generating diversity within this antigen family. Alp2 and Alp3 are additional members of the alpha C protein family identified in strains of the emerging GBS serotypes V and VIII. Each contains an overall genetic organization highly similar to that of the alpha C and Rib proteins, including a tandem repeat region and conserved N- and C-terminal regions. Among different strains, protein size varies according to the number of tandem repeats within the corresponding gene. Unlike the alpha C and Rib proteins, however, the newly described alpha-like proteins contain other regions, including one similar to the IgA-binding region of the GBS beta C protein, a nontandem repeat region, and an isolated repeat highly homologous to the alpha C repeat. Sequence analysis of the regions flanking the alpha C protein gene on a 13.7-kb insert reveals several ORFs that are likely to be involved in basic metabolic pathways. Analysis of corresponding flanking regions in other GBS strains, including the parent strains of the newly described alpha-like proteins, shows striking conservation among all strains studied. These findings indicate that the alpha-like proteins are encoded by mosaic variants at a single genomic locus and suggest that recombination after horizontal DNA transfer is a means of generating diversity within this protein family.

[Photodermatosis and photoprotection in children]

Photodermatosis is an heterogeneous group of affections characterized by an abnormal sensitivity of skin to sunlight responsible of a local or generalized eruption. Rare in children, the most frequent of them such as sun-burns, phytophotodermatosis and phototoxicity are fortunately benign, brief and spontaneously resolving. Some of them disappear spontaneously after few years like polymorphic light eruptions which are rather observed in children older than ten years. In case of recurrence, rare diagnosis have to be investigated with specific tests (phototests, blood exams, genetic investigations) as some metabolic or genetic disorders may be revealed by a photosensitivity, especially before the age of three years. The questioning of the parents and of the child is fundamental. Many diagnosis may be discussed depending on age and circumstances. Treatment consists in photoprotection recommendations, solar eviction and regular application of protective screens, whose spectrum of protection are different and have to be known in order to prescribe an adapted photoprotection.

[Solid pleural-based mass as initial manifestation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma]

Subpleural involvement is a well-known site of advanced or recurrent lymphoma. But, to our knowledge, it has never been described as an initial manifestation of this disease. We report the case of a patient with solid subpleural mass revealing a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

[Major eosinophilia in a premature infant induced by topical ketoconazole]

INTRODUCTION

Ketoconazole is a member of a newer group of imidazole antifungals. Except for treatment of oral candidiasis, there is no reported experience of use in neonates. Thus, its use in neonatalogy must be considered experimental. Herein we report a major eosinophilia in a very low birth weight neonate induced by transcutaneous resorption of topical ketoconazole.

CASE REPORT

A 26 week premature was intubated and ventilated for a hyaline membrane disease. At more than 2 weeks, he developed diaper dermatitis with Candida albicans. Treatment consisted of local application of ketoconazole. After 6 days of application, WBC showed a major eosinophilia [20,000/microL]. Discontinuation of the drug was followed by a prompt normalization of the eosinophil count. The challenge test by topical ketoconazole reproduced eosinophilia, implicating this drug, which, to our knowledge, has not been described previously to cause eosinophilia in very low weight neonates.

DISCUSSION

Peripheral eosinophilia is an uncommon finding present in a relatively limited number of conditions in children. A minor eosinophilia often seen in premature neonates may in part be due to intubation. This case illustrates the potential danger of percutaneous application of drugs in newborn and infants as it has previously been pointed out way various chemicals. Any deterioration of the corneal layer such as observed in many dermatosis prompts an increase in the cutaneous permeability. Immaturity of the premature skin may have aiso played a role. Dermatologists should be aware of potential toxic topical ointments before prescribing them to very low weight babies.

[Evaluation of the understanding of sun risk among 241 adolescents]

OBJECTIVE

We investigated adolescent's knowledge of the consequences of sun exposure in order to determine what preventive measures would be effective.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A questionnaire was given to 241 adolescents (111 girls and 130 boys) aged 13 to 15 years whose background included all social occupational categories. The questionnaire included 21 open response items. We also interviewed 100 adolescents 3 months after an information session with a 1-hour slide presentation.

RESULTS

Eighty-five percent of the girls and 62 p. 100 of the boys said they exposed themselves to sun regularly. For 50 p. 100 of the adolescents, sun exposure occurred between 12 noon and 4 p.m. Less than 9 p. 100 knew that this period corresponds to maximal sunlight intensity and that maximal photoprotection is necessary. Only 47 p. 100 of the girls and 25 p. 100 of the boys regularly used protective skin lotions. Twenty-five percent of the girls used a lotion adapted to their phototype and 8 p. 100 of the boys. Twenty percent of the adolescents questioned were aware that applications should be repeated every 2 hours or after bathing. The cost of skin lotions was never cited as a limiting factor for their use. More than 90 p. 100 of the adolescents gave correct responses at the second test.

DISCUSSION

Our study demonstrated that the risk of sun exposure is largely unrecognized by adolescents and that they have very incomplete information concerning protective measures. An adapted information program would be useful for this risk population.

[Spontaneous pneumothorax in children]

Spontaneous pneumothorax is rare in childhood. Before 12 years of age the main underlying pathologies are asthma, cystic malformations, post infectious bullae, and infectious pneumoniae. After 12 years of age it is mainly associated with cystic fibrosis and constitutional slim morphology. Symptoms vary according to the extent of lung collapse and the diagnosis is confirmed on chest X rays. In mildly symptomatic pneumothorax, spontaneous resolution is achieved within few days. When cardiorespiratory difficulties are present, mechanical evacuation of air from the pleural cavity is necessary through a tube drainage maintained until complete pulmonary reexpansion. Surgical treatment is indicated in case of persisting air leakage after one week of efficient drainage, large cystic malformation or post infectious bullae, recurring or bilateral pneumothorax.

Intraosseous xanthoma without lipid disorders. Case-report and literature review

A case of intraosseous xanthoma in a patient with a normal lipid profile is reported. Hyperlipidemia is present in most patients with xanthomas. Intraosseous xanthomas are rare, particularly in normolipidemic patients, in whom the presenting symptom is pain without skin lesions. A lytic lesion with a rim of sclerosis is seen on radiographs. Histology shows foam cells, giant cells, and fibrosis. Intraosseous xanthoma is a benign tumor, and other diagnoses must be ruled out (histiocytosis X, Erdheim Chester disease, clear cell carcinoma metastasis). Surgical excision of the lesion is the elective treatment.

[Nursing specialization program: residential model: experience of establishing oneself in a teaching hospital]

This is a report about the experience of setting up a Specialization Program for Nurses in a "Residence" format, at the school-hospital of the Federal University of São Paulo, which mixes the traditional structure of specialization programs in Brazil with the model of the resident physician practical training. It began on February 1995, with the following objectives: 1) to qualify nurses, in different specialities, by an intensive training program, on a full-time schedule; 2) to contribute to improve the process of nursing care and; 3) to increase the quality of nursing assistance in our hospital. The results of our experience allow us to suggest that's a good way to qualify nurses for the best nursing practice, and to increase nursing research in a very practical basis.

[Neonatal curettage of giant congenital nevi]

OBJECTIVE

All agree upon the need for early treatment of giant congenital nevi, basically because of the risk of melanoma degeneration, estimated at about 5 p. 100. Another reason is the cosmetic, psychological and social impact of such nevi. The aim of this study was to assess neonatal curettage of giant congenital nevi as an alternative to classical surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1996 and 1999, the curettage technique was used in 14 newborns with giant congenital nevi. Three nevi were located on the scalp, 4 on lower limbs and 7 on the trunk with a jacket configuration in 1 case and a cape configuration in 4.

RESULTS

Curettage achieved 70-95 p. 100 clearing of the giant nevi in 10 of the 14 children. Four of the children developed hypertrophic scar tissue which resolved with time. Secondary hair growth was observed in 5 cases. Outcome was better when the curettage was performed very early (before 2 weeks of life).

DISCUSSION

Curettage is a surface technique proposed when surgical excision cannot be performed because the surface is too large or the localization is incompatible with surgery. Curettage is a simple low-cost technique which provides particularly satisfactory cosmetic results for very extensive giant congenital nevi. The risk of malignant transformation is greatly reduced although not totally. Regular clinical surveillance under conditions greatly improved by the clearing should help reduce the risk.

[Neonatal melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus]

INTRODUCTION

Malignant melanoma arising in giant congenital nevus is a well known but rare event.

CASE REPORT

A 15 day-old boy with giant congenital nevus all over the left leg was seen for a 6 mm red and bleeding nodule inside the nevus on the inner thigh. Histopathology showed spindle cell malignant melanoma. A 3 cm edge surgical excision was performed with a favorable outcome which persists 5 years later.

DISCUSSION

The diagnosis of malignant melanoma is always very difficult in a child, unless metastasis occurs. Histopathologic modifications of childhood malignant melanomas are discussed. Development of malignant melanoma in giant congenital nevus would not appear to exceed 5 p. 100. Nevertheless, early surgical excision is recommended because the nevus is smaller and skin mobilization is easier at this age.

[Granuloma annulare in the child]

Granuloma annulare is a benign, common, inflammatory skin lesion of unknown etiology that is seen in both adults and children. The typical lesions are single or multiple small cutaneous papules with an annular distribution. The histology is consistent with an area of fibrinoid degeneration of collagen, surrounded by palisading histiocytes and inflammatory cells. There are four clinically distinct subtypes: localized, generalized, subcutaneous and perforating. Usually a spontaneous resolution is expected. Many medical treatments have been proposed but without evidence of efficacy. The association with insulin dependent diabetes is still being discussed.

Intestinal transplantation in children: preliminary experience in Paris

From November 1994 to November 1998, 20 children (2.5 to 14 years) received a jejunoileal graft alone (SBTx; n = 10) or in combination with the liver (SBLTx; n = 10 and/or the right colon (5 SBTx). Indications were intractable diarrhea of infancy (n = 8), short bowel syndrome (n = 6), extensive Hirschsprung disease (n = 4), and chronic intestinal pseudoobstruction (n = 2). Immunosuppression included tacrolimus, methylprednisolone, and azathioprine. Current follow-up ranges from 6 to 54 months. Five patients died (3 SBTx) within the first 2 months. Acute liver rejection occurred in 5 patients during the first 2 months. Sixteen episodes of intestinal rejection during the first 3 months in 11 patients (8 in 4 SBTx) were successfully treated in all but 3 by increasing tacrolimus dose and/or a 3-day methyprednisolone bolus or required antilymphoglobulins in 3 cases. Surgical complications occurred 8 times after SBLTx and 3 after SBTx. Infectious complications were more frequent in SBLTx recipients. Reversible Epstein-Barr virus-related posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease occurred in 3 recipients. Five presented cytomegalovirus infection. The SB graft was removed in 5 recipients (3 chronic rejection). All patients were started with oral and/or enteral feeding from the 7th postoperative day by using either normal food or protein hydrolysate diet. Currently, 10 of 11 children (8 SBLTx) achieved digestive autonomy after 5 to 30 weeks. All recipients gained weight; however, growth velocity remained reduced during the first 6 months because of the steroid therapy. Overall graft and patient survival is higher after SBLTx. Intestinal transplantation is indicated for patients with permanent intestinal failure. However, because parenteral nutrition is generally well tolerated, even for long periods, each indication for transplantation must be weighed carefully in terms of risk and quality of life.

[Can intestinal transplantation constitute treatment for intestinal failure?]

The management of patients with intestinal failure has benefited from progress in parenteral nutrition (PN), especially home-based parental nutrition. Intestinal transplantation is now possible and in some conditions, constitutes the logical treatment option. Since 1985, more than 300 small-bowel grafts have been performed, involving the isolated small bowel with or without the colon (45%), the liver + small bowel (40%) or several organs (15%). 2/3 of recipients were under 20 years of age, and indications were short-bowel syndrome (64%), severe intractable diarrhea (13%), abdominal cancer (13%), or chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome (8%). 51% of patients survived > 2 years after the graft. Patient and graft survival depends on the type of immunosuppression, i.e. Cyclosporine or FK 506. The results must be interpreted carefully as they represent the first experience in numerous centers using different immuno-suppressive protocols, without any randomization. The results from the largest of these centers more closely reflect the current situation and may exceed a 70% 2-year survival rate. Functional grafts lead to gastrointestinal autonomy (weaning of PN) while maintaining satisfactory nutritional status and normal growth in childhood. Intestinal transplantation is theoretically indicated for all patients permanently or persistently dependent on PN. However, as PN is generally well tolerated, even for long periods, each indication for transplantation must be carefully weighed up in terms of the iatrogenic risk and quality of life. When PN has reached its limits, especially those associated with vascular, infectious, hepatic or metabolic complications, intestinal transplantation must be undertaken. Transplantation of the small bowel alone remains the first option, as combined liver-small bowel grafting is only indicated in case of life-threatening progressive cirrhogenic liver disease.

[Features of tomodensitometry in the development of pleuropulmonary lesions related to Wegener's granulomatosis]

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine CT scan value for the follow-up of patients with pleuropulmonary lesions related to Wegener's granulomatosis.

METHODS

Retrospective study of ten patients who were diagnosed with diffuse Wegener's granulomatosis including lung involvement and for whom mean follow-up was 23 months (range 4-61).

RESULTS

During early stages of the disease, the most common finding was the existence of either nodules (90% of the patients) or consolidations (100% of the patients). CT scan controls showed that nodules disappeared within 6 months in 60% of patients and had completely resolved after 12 months. Linear opacities relating to traction developed, replacing subpleural nodules. A pneumothorax occurred in two patients who had excavated subpleural nodules. Consolidations disappeared in 44% of the patients, most frequently within 4 months. When consolidations persisted, they were replaced by alveolar infiltrates accompanied by bronchiolectasies and linear opacities. Regarding either nodules or consolidations, CT features related to relapse were similar to those of initial lesions in 40% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The main features of pleuropulmonary lesions relating to Wegener's granulomatosis were subpleural nodules that either disappeared with, however, subsequent linear opacities sequelae, or were complicated by the occurrence of pneumothorax.

[Psoriasis in childhood]

Psoriasis is a common chronic disease in childhood of yet unclear etiology. Thirty per cent of psoriatic patients experience onset of their disease before 15 years of age. Psoriasis is exceptionally congenital but may present in infancy as a napkin dermatitis. There are specific pediatric clinical forms, but at the beginning the eruption is usually discrete, and the diagnosis can be difficult. Pustular, erythrodermic and arthropathic forms are rare. Treatment must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the possible therapies and be kept to the minimum compatible with asymptomatic control.

[Liver transplantation with a living related donor in the child]

OBJECTIVES

Liver transplantation with living related donor has been recently developed to compensate for the insufficient number of liver grafts for children. The major problem is ethical because it implies voluntary mutilation of a healthy person. This paper report results in 37 living related donors.

PATIENTS

Recipients were followed in Enfants-Malades Hospital. Investigations and donor surgery were performed at the Digestive Surgery Unit of Beaujon Hospital.

RESULTS

One donor was re-operated for bleeding, and another one a biliary fistula treated with percutaneous drainage for one week. The post-operative course was uneventful in the other donors, with a follow-up of between 2 and 50 months. Thirty-three children are alive (90%), one of them underwent a second transplant for arterial thrombosis. Vascular and infectious complications, and the number of rejection episodes were the same as in transplantations with a deceased donor. Biliary complications were frequent (15 patients out of 37) and significantly increased morbidity. A teenage boy who received a small graft (0.9% of his weight) presented initially with hepatic insufficiency without encephalopathy.

CONCLUSION

This technique has been shown to have a good balance between benefits and risks. Our experience confirms this, especially in very young children. Each case should be discussed individually and parental consent should be obtained without external pressure. Experience with this technique should be continued and at the same time the use of cadaveric grafts should be optimized.

Up-to-date evolution of small bowel transplantation in children with intestinal failure

PURPOSE

The aim of the authors was to report an up-to-date review of their experience with 26 intestinal transplantations in children since 1987.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted of 26 patients with a mean age of 5 years (range, 0.3 to 14 years). Three groups were isolated. In group A (1987 to 1990), seven patients received nine isolated intestinal transplants for short bowel syndrome. Immunosuppression therapy consisted of cyclosporine, aziathioprine, and corticosteroids. In group B (1994-current), nine patients received nine isolated intestinal transplants for short bowel syndrom (n = 2), intestinal pseudoobstruction (n = 2), neonatal intractable diarrhea (n = 3), and Hirschsprung' disease (n = 1); hepatic biopsy results showed weak cholestasis or fibrosis. In group C (1994-current), 10 patients received 10 combined liver-small bowel transplants for short bowel syndrome (n = 3), neonatal intractable diarrhea (n = 4), and Hirschsprung' disease (n = 3); hepatic cirrhosis related to total parenteral nutrition (TPN) was shown in all cases. Groups B and C received immunosupressive treatment consisting of tacrolimus, aziathioprine, and corticosteroids. Posttransplant follow-up included intestinal biopsies of the small bowel twice a week and more frequently or combined with liver biopsy if rejection was suspected.

RESULTS

Overall patient survival (PS) and graft survival (GS) are 61% (16 of 26) and 50% (13 of 26), respectively. In group A, severe intestinal allograft rejection occurred in six patients leading to graft removal (GS, 11%). Five patients died of TPN complications after graft removal (PS, 28%). One survivor is off TPN, and one currently is waiting for a second graft. In group B, six patients survived (PS, 66%). Causes of death include hepatic failure (n = 1), renal and liver failure (n = 1), and systemic infection (n = 1). Severe intestinal allograft rejection occurred in five patients, which neccessitated aggressive immunosuppression (antilymphocyte serum) leading to an incomplete functional recovery of the graft. Only two patients currently are off TPN. In group C, eight patients survived (PS, 80%) all of which are currently off TPN. One patient died during the procedure, and one died of severe systemic infection. Intestinal graft rejection occurred in six patients; rejection of the liver allograft occurred in five patients, yet all rejections were weak and successfully treated by corticosteroids (GS, 80%).

CONCLUSIONS

Intestinal transplantation is a valid therapeutic option for children with definitive intestinal failure and not only for short bowel syndrome. Tacrolimus improves graft and patient survival (group A v group B). The lower severity of graft rejection in combined liver-small bowel transplantation improves functional results of intestinal transplantation in children without additional mortality or morbidity (group B vgroup C).

Living-related liver transplantation in children: the 'Parisian' strategy to safely increase organ availability

PURPOSE

The aim of the authors was to report their experience with living related liver transplantation (LRLT) in children, particularly focusing on the safety of the two-center "Parisian" strategy.

METHODS

The records of donors and recipients of 26 pediatric living-related donor liver transplantations performed between November 1994 and March 1998 were reviewed retrospectively. Donors were assessed 1 year after transplantation for medical and overall status.

RESULTS

Indications for LRLT included biliary atresia (n = 18), Byler's disease (n = 5), alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (n = 1), Alagille syndrome (n = 1), and undefined cirrhosis (n = 1). Liver harvesting consisted of either a complete left hepatectomy (n = 14) or left lateral hepatectomy (n = 12) without vascular clamping. The recipient procedure essentially was the same as in split liver transplantation. Mean overall cold ischemia time averaged 140 minutes (range, 90 to 230 minutes). Twenty-four of 26 patients had end-to-end vascular anastomoses without interposition. Biliary reconstruction consisted of a Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy in all patients. All recipients except one received cyclosporine A (CSA). Mean donor hospitalization was 8 days (range, 6 to 13) with normalization of all liver function assays by the time of discharge. There were no donor deaths and two postoperative complications (perihepatic fluid collection and bleeding from the wound). One year after donation, the initial 19 donors had resumed their pretransplant status. Two of the children who underwent transplant died. Thirteen of the recipients required reoperation for hepatic artery thrombosis (n = 2), portal vein thrombosis (n = 2), biliary complications (n = 6), fluid collection (n = 3), small bowel perforation (n = 1), and plication for diaphragmatic eventration (n = 1). With mean follow-up of 2 years, 24 of 26 patients are alive and well (patient and graft survival rate, 92%).

CONCLUSIONS

LRLT is still controversial, even with minimal and decreasing donor risk. The "Parisian" strategy consists of harvesting the liver in an adult unit by an adult hepatic surgery team. The transplantation is then performed in a pediatric hospital by the pediatric liver transplantation team. The two steps of the procedure allow units specialized in adult surgery, on one hand, and pediatric liver transplantation, on the other hand, to dedicate themselves completely to their respective procedures, improving the safety of the harvest, and alleviating stress for both the medical staff and the families.