Revisited physicochemical and transport properties of respiratory mucus in genotyped cystic fibrosis patients

We investigated the physicochemical and transport properties of sputum samples collected in physiotherapy from a well-documented group of 27 cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with identified CF genotypes. Sputum samples were characterized ex vivo for their water content, surface properties (surface tension and contact angle), rheologic properties (viscosity and elastic modulus), and transport properties (mucociliary and cough transport). These data were analyzed in relation to the clinical status of the patients (FEV1, FVC, Shwachman score, Brasfield score, nutritional status), their genotype, and the degree of infection of their sputa (leukocyte and Pseudomonas aeruginosa counts). We observed negative and significant correlations between mucociliary transport and elastic modulus of the patients' sputum (r = -0.63, p < 0.01), and between the cough transport and contact angle of the sputum (r = -0.81, p < 0.0001), respectively. The P. aeruginosa count was also significantly correlated with the sputum water content (r = -0.53, p < 0.02) as well as with the cough transport of the sputum (r = -0.62, p < 0.01). In CF patients with a sputum leukocyte count > 2,000/mm3, the sputum water content (p < 0.02), FEV1 (p < 0.05) and FVC (p < 0.02) were significantly lower than those of CF patients with a leukocyte count < or = 2,000/mm3. CF patients with a homozygous delta F 508 genotype had significantly greater values of sputum water content (p < 0.05), and cough-transport capacity (p < 0.05) than did heterozygous patients. No correlation was observed between the sputum properties and any of the clinical data. These results suggest that the control of infection should be emphasized in CF, since it can directly or indirectly modulate the degree of hydration, and therefore the physicochemical and transport properties, of airway secretions.

[Glomerular nephropathy with IgA mesangium deposits and Crohn disease]

BACKGROUND

Renal disease is an unfrequent extraintestinal manifestation of chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

CASE REPORT

A 12-year-old girl suffered from recurrent abdominal pain, diarrhea and growth impairment due to Crohn's disease of ileocaecal region. After six months of nutritional rehabilitation, an ileo-caecal resection was performed because of intestinal stenosis. The surgical procedure was followed by parietal abcess and cutaneous fistula. One year later, a purulent secretion came out of the fistula associated with fever, hematuria and acute renal failure. Renal biopsy confirmed IgA nephropathy. The course was favorable under parenteral nutrition and after surgical closure of the sigmoido-cutaneous fistula. The microscopic hematuria only persisted but the nephropathy did not relapse even during a further digestive exacerbation.

CONCLUSION

IgA nephropathy has been reported in association with chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Its mechanism remains unclear: increased mucosal IgA production in inflammatory bowel, increased serum IgA and/or immune complex deposition in the renal mesangium appear the most relevant hypotheses.

[Contribution of post mortem skull scanning for the study of sudden infant death]

BACKGROUND

Despite post-mortem examination and autopsy, many cases of sudden infant death (SID) remain unexplained. The aim of this study was to assess usefulness of CT-scan in the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

POPULATION

Twenty-three cases of SIDS had a post-mortem CT-scan evaluation of skull and brain. The pictures were retrospectively reviewed by several independent radiologists who were unaware of the circumstances of death and results of autopsy.

RESULTS

Aspects of pneumatocele, probably due to lumbar puncture were found in 6 cases. The subarachnoid spaces appeared inexplically hyperdense, as they were not correlated to the results of lumbar puncture and autopsy. The ventricles were normal in size or density. Density of the dural sinuses (superfical and deep) was often increased, an aspect possibly artefactual, due to post-mortem thrombosis. The cerebral parenchyma was often slighty hypodense; microcalcifications due to congenital toxoplasmosis were found in one case.

CONCLUSION

There was no correlation between the CT-scan imaging and the delay of death and lumbar puncture. Infants with or without subarachnoid hemorrage had the same CT scan findings. The CT-scan has a poor value when autopsy is performed; in its absence, it could be useful for diagnosing post-traumatic intracerebral hematoma.

Neonatal screening for cystic fibrosis: result of a pilot study using both immunoreactive trypsinogen and cystic fibrosis gene mutation analyses

We have evaluated a two-tier neonatal cystic fibrosis (CF) screening of immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT) followed by CFTR gene mutation analysis using a systematic scanning of exons 7, 10, and 11, and, if necessary, by direct DNA sequencing. Over an 18-month period we screened 32,300 neonates born in the western part of Britanny. The first tier, involving IRT screening at 3 days of age, utilizes a low elevation of the trypsinogen level (600 ng/ml), which is highly sensitive. The second tier, which corresponds to the exhaustive screening for mutations in three exons of the gene, is highly specific for this population (Britanny). The false positive rate is very low, and no false negatives have been reported to date. This strategy has allowed the identification of five novel alleles (V322A, V317A, 1806 del A, R553G, G544S).

Dose-dependent in vitro effect of recombinant human DNase on rheological and transport properties of cystic fibrosis respiratory mucus

Recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) has been demonstrated to reduce the viscosity of purulent cystic fibrosis (CF) respiratory mucus, to improve pulmonary function and to reduce the risk of respiratory tract infectious exacerbations, but its effect on mucus transportability has not so far been investigated. The dose-dependent effect of rhDNase was analysed in vitro on mucus transport rate (tr) by ciliary activity and by simulated cough (cough transport (ct)), as well as on mucus viscosity and surface properties. Purulent CF sputa (n = 15) were incubated for 30 min at 37 degrees C with either rhDNase at three different concentrations (final concentrations 0.2, 2 or 20 micrograms.ml-1 of mucus) or placebo. No significant dose-dependent effect of rhDNase on the mucociliary transport rate was observed when the samples wer statistically analysed together. However, in the larger group of mucus samples (n = 11) with a low initial mucociliary transport rate, the latter was improved at each rhDNase concentration (tr0.2 = 0.69, tr2 = 0.88 and tr20 = 0.87) as compared to placebo (trp = 0.58). In the smaller group of mucus samples (n = 4) with high initial transport rate, a decrease in mucociliary transport rate was observed, particularly at the highest concentration rhDNase assayed, i.e. 20 micrograms.ml-1 of mucus (tr20 = 0.58) as compared to placebo (trp = 0.86). The mucus cough transport was increased by rhDNase (ct0.2 = 25 mm, ct2 = 27.5 mm and ct20 = 31 mm) as compared to placebo (ctp = 23.5 mm).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Obstructive azoospermia with agenesis of vas deferens or with bronchiectasia (Young's syndrome): a genetic approach

Two groups of infertile men with obstructive azoospermia were screened for cystic fibrosis (CF) gene mutations (delta F508, exons 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 14a, 17b, 19, 20, 21). The first group was composed of 26 patients with congenital agenesis of vas deferens (CAVD). The second group was composed of 12 patients with obstructive azoospermia associated with chronic suppurating respiratory disease (Young's syndrome). Of the group with CAVD, 77% of patients showed at least one mutation in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. The delta F508 mutation occurred most frequently (54%), and the second most frequent mutation to occur was R117H (27%). Six patients were double heterozygotes. In Young's syndrome, no CF mutations were detected. CAVD can be considered as an incomplete clinical form of CF. However, the differences observed in CF mutations between CF and CAVD suggest that they are different disorders resulting from mutations in the same gene. Young's syndrome is a very different clinical entity.

French CF family genotype analysis shows that the R297Q mutation is a rare polymorphism

The authors describe a cystic fibrosis family genotype analysis showing that the R297Q amino acid change is a rare polymorphism rather than a deleterious mutation as previously reported. Indeed in this family two healthy subjects have the following genotypes: delta F508/R297Q and N1303K/R297Q.

Analysis of 160 CF chromosomes: detection of a novel mutation in exon 20

The cystic fibrosis (CF) gene has been cloned and a major mutation identified (delta F508). This 3-bp deletion has been found in approximately 70% of CF chromosomes. We have used the strategy of denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis followed by direct sequencing of the polymerase chain reaction products, in order to detect other mutations in exons 10, 11 and 20 of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator gene. A new mutation, F1286-S, was found in exon 20. It involves a nucleotide change of T-->C at nucleotide 3989 and changes a phenylalanine into serine at position 1286 of the protein.

[Visceral leishmaniasis in an infant in Brittany: discussion on the modes of transmission out endemic zones]

The case of a 13 month-old-boy with visceral leishmaniasis acquired in Brittany, a region of France where leishmaniasis is not endemic, is presented. The mode of contamination remains unclear, although a transfusional origin through blood transfusions during the neonatal period appears the most likely.

[Vaccination against measles at 6 months of age]

Measles immunization with the Edmonston Zagreb stain was carried out in 71 six-month-old infants. Proportions of subjects with immunity were 91% among the 47 subjects retested before one year of age and 100% among the 28 subjects retested between two and three years of age. These results support the WHO recommendation that measles immunization should be given at the age of six months. The concerns expressed by some about possible adverse effects of early measles immunization (decreased immune defenses) are discussed, as well as the transfer of maternal antibodies and persistence of these antibodies in the child. The obstacles to such studies in developing countries, including the need for repeated phlebotomies with centrifugation of specimens and freezing of sera, could be circumvented by the use of filter paper dried blood spot samples which seem to provide reliable results although with values somewhat lower than those found in frozen sera.

[Post-vaccinal hemi-convulsion hemiplegia syndrome]

An 18-month-old infant developed hemiseizure-hemiplegia syndrome following a booster dose of vaccine against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and poliomyelitis. Clinical, CT scan, and electroencephalographic findings during the two-and-a-half-year follow-up are described. The timing of events and data from the literature suggest that hemiseizure-hemiplegia syndrome is related to post-immunization hyperthermia rather than to direct neurologic toxicity of the vaccine.

[Torticollis in children: do not forget the Sandifer syndrome]

We report a case of Sandifer syndrome with chronic torticollis and gastroesophageal reflux (GER). The infant exhibited regurgitations and vomiting from birth. Torticollis with a permanent tilt of the head towards the right developed at age six months. At 16 months, persistence of the vomiting and abnormal attitude of the head and neck led to a CT scan that outruled a brain tumor. Esophageal pH recordings disclosed severe gastroesophageal reflux (pH less than 4 for 46% of the time over 24 hours) and endoscopy showed ulcerated peptic esophagitis. Surgical treatment of the GER ensured both resolution of the reflux and disappearance of the torticollis, establishing the causal relationship between the former and latter manifestations.

MCA/MR syndrome with oligodactyly and Möbius anomaly in first cousins: new syndrome or familial facial-limb disruption sequence?

We report on two sibs with a multiple congenital anomalies/mental retardation (MCA/MR) syndrome who have a first cousin with Möbius anomaly. This may represent a new MCA/MR syndrome.

"Isolated" hydrocephalus in families of spina bifida and anencephaly: a coincidence?

Hydrocephalus is a frequent complication of spina bifida. We wanted to find out if the risk of isolated hydrocephalus was greater in families with NTD (anencephaly and spina bifida) from 424 families studied between 1975 and 1984 in Brittany. The risk of recurrence of NTD is 1.8% in these families, the risk of hydrocephalus 0.3% which represents a risk three times greater than that of the population at large. This risk seems all the higher if the proband is a spina bifida of the male sex. However, no X-linked heredity can be reasonably assumed in these cases. We conclude that these families present a higher multifactorial risk of having another malformed child.

[Truncus arteriosus: an autosomal recessive disease?]

Truncus arteriosus is an uncommon heart malformation; it is not reported that recurrence is high; nevertheless authors report three families with two or more cases; in the third there is a very high consanguinity (two uncle-niece marriages). The authors compare the situation with hypoplastic left heart and think that some cases of truncus arteriosus would have an autosomal recessive inheritance. That is an another argument for suggesting an echocardiographic survey of the pregnancies in these families.

[Infantile mortality in Ile-et-Vilaine (1970-1986)]

The rates and the causes of infantile mortality between 1970 and 1986 in the district of Ille-et-Vilaine are reported. During that period, infantile mortality rate decreased from 18.7 to 7.06% and from 12.4 to 3.6% during the first week (0-6 days), thereby suggesting the efficacy of medical care programs for this pediatric age group in France. Since 1980, with more accurate record keeping, using the recommended international classifications, there is a relative stagnation in the rate or early neonatal deaths (3.97 to 3.67) as compared to a sizable drop in the rates of late neonatal deaths (1.90 to 0.73) and post neonatal deaths (4.63 to 2.57). Congenital abnormalities have become the most important cause of death (34%) before prematurity (24.58%). However, the number of congenital anomalies should quickly decrease with prenatal screening programs leading to interruption of pregnancies. Although the percentage of infantile deaths due to prematurity has decreased from 66% between 1970 and 1974 to 24.58% in recent years, prematurity remains an important cause of death. Infections have decreased and the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is currently the most important cause of death during the postneonatal period. The well known factors of risks are confirmed and particularly increased vulnerability of the population with a low socio-economic status which should lead to appropriate prevention programs. Despite these very impressive results, birth remains the most vulnerable period of life and current efforts should continue. Priority must be given to the improvement of prenatal care which requires good ongoing collaboration between obstetrics and pediatrics and the use of the Maternity Health Booklet.

Acute pancreatitis from a duodenal foreign body in a child

A 14-month-old child was admitted to the hospital with acute pancreatitis, abdominal pain, and shock. An abdominal radiograph revealed a paper clip standing out at the duodenal level. The foreign body was removed by endoscopy, revealing an edematic and hemorrhagic duodenal papilla. The patient progressed favorably after the foreign body was removed. This observation underlines the necessity of digestive transit surveillance of a foreign body that has not been endoscopically removed and the relevancy of duodenal endoscopy for acute pancreatitis of indefinite etiology.

[Accidental ingestion of caustics in children. Apropos of 100 cases]

One hundred children (67 boys, 33 girls) underwent early fiberoptic endoscopy (without general anesthesia in 96 cases) for caustic ingestion between January 1985 and June 1988. The intended use of the product was household (83) industrial (4) farm (6) or medicinal (7). Caustic burns were classified as grade 1 (mucosal hyperaemia), grade 2 (ulceration) and grade 3 (necrosis). Endoscopy was negative in 52, grade 1 in 41 who had evidence of esophagitis and/or gastritis, grade 2 and/or grade 3 in 7 cases, 4 of whom had ingested farm products. Eighty-seven children were discharged after examination, 6 were hospitalized for 24 hours. Outcome was favorable for the 5 cases with grade 2 lesions after total parenteral nutrition for an average period of 79 days. The 2 cases with grade 3 injuries went on to develop an esophageal stricture requiring endoscopic dilation and an antral stricture which was treated by antrectomy. Authors emphasize the severity of lesions secondary to the ingestion of dairy pipeline cleaners, the advantages of fiberoptic endoscopy and the role of parenteral nutrition.

[Stillbirths in Ile-et-Vilaine]

The study of stillbirths is a way to approach foetal medicine and a good opportunity to foster a closer relationship between obstetricians, pediatricians and public health physicians, which will lead to preventive measures known to be effective in decreasing mortality rates. Four hundred and ninety pregnancies which ended in stillbirths were investigated: 61 before 27 weeks of amenorrhea, 228 between 28th and 36th weeks, 194 after 37 weeks. The different causes were identified: intrauterine growth retardation and pathological pregnancies remain the most important causes but the authors attract attention to a category of foetal deaths occurring at the end of the pregnancy without any evident cause and for which "postmaturity" was likely. The data attract attention on the necessity to carry out research on stillbirths through a closer collaboration between obstetricians and pediatricians and suggest that appropriate preventive measures may lead to a significant reduction of the 25% of avoidable deaths.

[Argininosuccinic aciduria. A new case revealed by psychiatric disorders]

The case of a 4 years old boy, hospitalized for an unexplained coma, is reported. He is the first child of a non-consanguin couple. The psychomotor development of this child was considered as normal up to the age of 18 months; then, a delay in language development, behaviour disorders with an important instability interrupted by episodes of somnolence, were observed. This child was treated for psychotic disorders. At the age of 3 and half, he had two episodes of seizures associated with fever. He was hospitalized for a 24 hours coma (4 years old). An hepatomegaly and a dry, brittle hair were then observed. Hyperammonemia was made obvious by a protein tolerance test. The diagnosis of argininosuccinate lyase (ASAL) deficiency was based on the increased levels of ASA in plasma and urine. The deficiency was proved by a fibroblast culture. With protein restriction, hepatomegaly disappeared, hair became normal, the behaviour disorders and the delay in language development was improved. However, some school difficulties persist. This case shows that an hereditary metabolic syndrome can be revealed by psychotic like symptoms in childhood.