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Yeung F, Smith J, Mendoza-Londono R, O'Connor C, Howard A, Sorbara J, Schwartz S. Fracture prevalence in children diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Generalized Joint Hypermobility. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 153:106828. [PMID: 38749147 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited understanding of the hypothesized association between the Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), hypermobility and fractures in children. Despite this, EDS and hypermobility continue to be raised in the legal setting as possible causes of unexplained fractures in infants where there is a concern for physical abuse. Further understanding is needed regarding fractures in children with EDS and hypermobility. OBJECTIVE This study assessed fracture prevalence and characteristics in children diagnosed with EDS and Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH). The secondary outcome was fracture prevalence in infants <1 year of age. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Children aged <18 years with EDS or GJH seen in a single-center EDS clinic from April 2017 to December 2021 were included. Diagnoses were based on the 2017 international classification. Exclusion criteria were concurrent medical conditions associated with bone fragility. METHODS This retrospective descriptive study examined variables including fracture history, fracture location, fracture type, age of sustaining fracture, and injury mechanism. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. RESULTS Fracture prevalence was 34.6 % (9/26, 95 % CI [16.3, 52.9]) in the EDS population and 25.4 % (15/59, 95 % CI [14.3, 36.5]) in the GJH population. No fractures occurred in infancy. Most fractures occurred in the limbs. There were no rib or skull fractures. Most fractures were the result of an identifiable injury event. CONCLUSION In a cohort of children with formally diagnosed EDS or GJH, fractures occurred commonly in ambulatory children and generally in the limbs from identifiable events. This study does not support EDS or GJH as a cause of fractures in infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Yeung
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Canada; Division of Pediatric Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Canada.
| | - Jennifer Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Canada; Division of Pediatric Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
| | - Roberto Mendoza-Londono
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Canada; Division of Clinical and Metabolic Genetics, Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Howard
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
| | - Julia Sorbara
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Canada; Division of Endocrinology, Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
| | - Sarah Schwartz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Canada; Division of Pediatric Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
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2
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van Gemert MJC, Zwinderman AH, van Koppen PJ, Neumann HAM, Vlaming M. Child Abuse, Misdiagnosed by an Expertise Center-Part II-Misuse of Bayes' Theorem. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:843. [PMID: 37238391 PMCID: PMC10217160 DOI: 10.3390/children10050843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A newborn girl had, from two weeks on, small bruises on varying body locations, but not on her chest. Her Armenian grandmother easily bruised, too. Her mother was diagnosed with hypermobility-type Ehlers-Danlos-Syndrome (hEDS), an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder, with a 50% inheritance probability. Referral to a University Medical Center located "Dutch Expertise Center for Child Abuse" resulted (prior to consultation) in physical abuse suspicion. Protocol-based skeletal X-rays showed three healed, asymptomatic rib fractures. A protocol-based Bayesian likelihood ratio guesstimation gave 10-100, erroneously used to suggest a 10-100 times likelier non-accidental-than-accidental cause. Foster care placement followed, even in a secret home, where she also bruised, suggesting hEDS inheritance. Correct non-accidental/accidental Bayes' probability of symptoms is (likelihood ratio) × (physical abuse incidence). From the literature, we derived an infant abuse incidence between about ≈0.0009 and ≈0.0026 and a likelihood ratio of <5 for bruises. For rib fractures, we used a zero likelihood ratio, arguing their cause was birth trauma from the extra delivery pressure on the chest, combined with fragile bones as the daughter of an hEDS-mother. We thus derived a negligible abuse/accidental probability between <5 × 0.0009 <0.005 and <5 × 0.0026 <0.013. The small abuse incidence implies that correctly using Bayes' theorem will also miss true infant physical abuse cases. Curiously, because likelihood ratios assess how more often symptoms develop if abuse did occur versus non-abuse, Bayes' theorem then implies a 100% infant abuse incidence (unwittingly) used by LECK. In conclusion, probabilities should never replace differential diagnostic procedures, the accepted medical method of care. Well-known from literature, supported by the present case, is that (child abuse pediatrics) physicians, child protection workers, and judges were unlikely to understand Bayesian statistics. Its use without statistics consultation should therefore not have occurred. Thus, Bayesian statistics, and certainly (misused) likelihood ratios, should never be applied in cases of physical child abuse suspicion. Finally, parental innocence follows from clarifying what could have caused the girl's bruises (inherited hEDS), and rib fractures (birth trauma from fragile bones).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J. C. van Gemert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aeilko H. Zwinderman
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Bio-Statistics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J. van Koppen
- Department of Criminal Law and Criminology, Faculty of Law, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marianne Vlaming
- Private Practice, Criminal Psychology and Law, 6986 CL Angerlo, The Netherlands
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3
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Charoenngam N, Rittiphairoj T, Ponvilawan B, Jaroenlapnopparat A, Waitayangkoon P, Suppakitjanusant P, Prasitsumrit V, Pongchaiyakul C, Holick MF. Bone fragility in Hereditary Connective Tissue Disorders: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Endocr Pract 2023:S1530-891X(23)00045-9. [PMID: 36804968 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate bone fragility in patients with hereditary connective tissue disorders (HCTD), including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), Marfan's syndrome (MFS) and Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS). METHODS From inception to June 2022, potentially eligible studies were identified in the Medline and EMBASE databases using search strategy that included terms for "HCTD", "Fracture" and "Osteoporosis". Eligible studies must consist of a group of patients with HCTD and report prevalence/incidence of fracture/osteoporosis in their participants, with or without comparison with healthy individuals. Point estimates with standard errors were obtained from each study and combined using the generic inverse variance method. RESULTS Among the 4,206 articles identified, 19 studies were included. The pooled prevalence of fracture in EDS, MFS and LDS were 44% (95%CI, 25 - 65%, I2 88%), 17% (95%CI, 11 - 26%, I2 68%), 69% (95%CI, 47 - 85%, I2 83%), respectively. The pooled prevalence of osteoporosis in EDS was 17% (95%CI, 8 - 34%, I2 96%). EDS was associated with fracture [pooled odds ratio 4.90 (95%CI, 1.49 - 16.08, I2 86%)], but not osteoporosis [pooled odds ratio 1.34 (95%CI, 0.28 - 6.36, I2 87%). One study reported a 5% (95%CI, 3 - 8%) prevalence of osteoporosis in MFS, which was associated with fracture [incidence rate ratio 1.35 (95%CI, 1.18 - 1.55)] and osteoporosis [subhazard ratio 3.97 (95%CI, 2.53 - 6.25)]. CONCLUSION EDS was associated with fracture, which could be independent of osteoporosis status. MFS had a milder degree of increased risk of fracture and osteoporosis. Despite no data from cohort studies, there was a significantly higher rate of fracture in LDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nipith Charoenngam
- Department of Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA; Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | | | - Ben Ponvilawan
- Department of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Vitchapong Prasitsumrit
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chatlert Pongchaiyakul
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
| | - Michael F Holick
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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4
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Charoenngam N, Nasr A, Shirvani A, Holick MF. Hereditary Metabolic Bone Diseases: A Review of Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Management. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13101880. [PMID: 36292765 PMCID: PMC9601711 DOI: 10.3390/genes13101880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary metabolic bone diseases are characterized by genetic abnormalities in skeletal homeostasis and encompass one of the most diverse groups among rare diseases. In this review, we examine 25 selected hereditary metabolic bone diseases and recognized genetic variations of 78 genes that represent each of the three groups, including sclerosing bone disorders, disorders of defective bone mineralization and disorder of bone matrix and cartilage formation. We also review pathophysiology, manifestation and treatment for each disease. Advances in molecular genetics and basic sciences has led to accurate genetic diagnosis and novel effective therapeutic strategies for some diseases. For other diseases, the genetic basis and pathophysiology remain unclear. Further researches are therefore crucial to innovate ways to overcome diagnostic challenges and develop effective treatment options for these orphan diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nipith Charoenngam
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Aryan Nasr
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Arash Shirvani
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Michael F. Holick
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-617-358-6139
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5
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Milner JD, Hartnett DA, DeFroda SF, Slingsby BA, Silber ZS, Blackburn AZ, Daniels AH, Cruz AI. Orthopedic manifestations of child abuse. Pediatr Res 2022; 92:647-652. [PMID: 34819655 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-021-01850-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Child abuse is common in the United States but is often undetected. The incidence of this form of abuse is difficult to quantify, but children with a history of abuse are at risk of chronic health conditions. Medical providers are in the unique position of triaging trauma patients and differentiating unintentional from abusive trauma, as well as having the important position of being a mandated reporter of abuse in all states. Obtaining a detailed history and screening for risk factors can help identify children at risk of abuse. Certain orthopedic injuries may be related to abuse, which may trigger clinical suspicion and lead to further workup or intervention. By increasing awareness, through medical provider education and increased screening, earlier detection of abuse may prevent more serious injuries and consequences. This review evaluates current literature regarding the orthopedic manifestations of child abuse in hopes of increasing medical provider awareness. IMPACT: Child abuse is common in the United States but often remains undetected. Medical professionals are in the unique position of evaluating trauma patients and identifying concerns for abusive injuries. Certain orthopedic injuries may raise concern for abuse triggering clinical suspicion and further workup or intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Milner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Davis A Hartnett
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Steven F DeFroda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Brett A Slingsby
- Department of Pediatrics, The Lawrence A. Aubin Sr. Child Protection Center, Hasbro Children's Hospital, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Zachary S Silber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Amy Z Blackburn
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Alan H Daniels
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Aristides I Cruz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI, USA
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Ebeling PR, Nguyen HH, Aleksova J, Vincent AJ, Wong P, Milat F. Secondary Osteoporosis. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:240-313. [PMID: 34476488 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a global public health problem, with fractures contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. Although postmenopausal osteoporosis is most common, up to 30% of postmenopausal women, > 50% of premenopausal women, and between 50% and 80% of men have secondary osteoporosis. Exclusion of secondary causes is important, as treatment of such patients often commences by treating the underlying condition. These are varied but often neglected, ranging from endocrine to chronic inflammatory and genetic conditions. General screening is recommended for all patients with osteoporosis, with advanced investigations reserved for premenopausal women and men aged < 50 years, for older patients in whom classical risk factors for osteoporosis are absent, and for all patients with the lowest bone mass (Z-score ≤ -2). The response of secondary osteoporosis to conventional anti-osteoporosis therapy may be inadequate if the underlying condition is unrecognized and untreated. Bone densitometry, using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, may underestimate fracture risk in some chronic diseases, including glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, and may overestimate fracture risk in others (eg, Turner syndrome). FRAX and trabecular bone score may provide additional information regarding fracture risk in secondary osteoporosis, but their use is limited to adults aged ≥ 40 years and ≥ 50 years, respectively. In addition, FRAX requires adjustment in some chronic conditions, such as glucocorticoid use, type 2 diabetes, and HIV. In most conditions, evidence for antiresorptive or anabolic therapy is limited to increases in bone mass. Current osteoporosis management guidelines also neglect secondary osteoporosis and these existing evidence gaps are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter R Ebeling
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Hanh H Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Western Health, Victoria 3011, Australia
| | - Jasna Aleksova
- Department of Endocrinology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Amanda J Vincent
- Department of Endocrinology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Phillip Wong
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Frances Milat
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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7
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Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type Arthrochalasia: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031870. [PMID: 35162892 PMCID: PMC8835098 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type arthrochalasia (aEDS) is a rare genetic disease characterized by severe generalized joint hypermobility, bilateral congenital hip dislocation, skin hyperextensibility, muscle hypotonia, and mild dysmorphic features. It is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disease causing defects in collagen, associated with two genes, COL1A1 or COL1A2. Only about 42 cases have been published worldwide. Treatment is currently symptomatic and focuses on increasing the quality of life of these patients, as there is no curative treatment. The main objective of the review was to update information on Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type arthrochalasia from scientific publications. The review report was carried out in accordance with the criteria of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and MetaAnalyses (PRISMA) review protocol, by searching Orphanet, OMIM, PubMed, and Scopus, as well as free sources. A total of 20 articles were analyzed, which, after analysis, provide an updated report that aims to establish a solid starting point for future lines of research.
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8
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Debunking Fringe Beliefs in Child Abuse Imaging: AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2021; 217:529-540. [PMID: 33908266 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.21.25655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Child abuse is a global public health concern. Injuries from physical abuse may be clinically occult and not appreciable on physical examination. Imaging is therefore critical in identifying and documenting such injuries. The radiologic approach for a child who has potentially been abused has received considerable attention and recommendations according to decades of experience and rigorous scientific study. Nonetheless, fringe beliefs describing alternative explanations for child abuse-related injuries have emerged and received mainstream attention. Subsequently, imaging findings identified in abused children have been attributed to poorly supported underlying medical conditions, clouding the evidence basis for radiologic findings indicative of nonaccidental trauma. Fringe beliefs that attribute findings seen in child abuse to alternate pathologies such as genetic disorders, birth trauma, metabolic imbalances, vitamin D deficiency, and short-distance falls typically have limited evidence basis and lack professional society support. Careful review of the scientific evidence and professional society consensus statements is important in differentiating findings attributable to child abuse from fringe beliefs used to discount the possibility that a child's constellation of injuries is consistent with abuse. This review refutes fringe beliefs used to provide alternative explanations in cases of suspected child abuse and reinforces the key literature and scientific consensus regarding child abuse imaging.
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9
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Holick MF, Shirvani A, Charoenngam N. Fetal Fractures in an Infant with Maternal Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, CCDC134 Pathogenic Mutation and a Negative Genetic Test for Osteogenesis Imperfecta. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8060512. [PMID: 34204301 PMCID: PMC8235512 DOI: 10.3390/children8060512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine fractures are a rare clinical finding caused by abnormal early-life osteogenesis. In this case report, we reported a male infant with twenty-three intrauterine/fetal fractures resembling osteogenesis imperfecta and tested negative for COL1A1 and COL1A2 mutations. The infant’s mother had Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that there were no pathologic mutations previously documented to be associated with intrauterine fracture. Genetic mutations reported to be associated with fragility fractures were identified. These include the pathogenic homozygous mutation in the CCDC134 gene. Other genetic variants that might be responsible for variable expressivity of the skeletal manifestation include the homozygous variants of the genes CCDC134, COL15A1 and ZFPM1, and the heterozygous variants of the genes MYH3, BCHE, AUTS2. This is the first reported case of in utero fractures, that was confirmed by X-ray after birth, in an infant who had no genetic evidence for osteogenesis imperfecta, had a homozygous pathogenic mutation of an osteogenesis gene and whose mother had Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type. Therefore, we have identified a new genetic cause for in utero fractures. If after birth, this infant were found to have these fractures in various stages of healing with a negative genetic test for osteogenesis imperfecta he would have been misdiagnosed as due to nonaccidental trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F. Holick
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.S.); (N.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-617-358-6139
| | - Arash Shirvani
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.S.); (N.C.)
| | - Nipith Charoenngam
- Section Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.S.); (N.C.)
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
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10
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Sidpra J, Chhabda S, Oates AJ, Bhatia A, Blaser SI, Mankad K. Abusive head trauma: neuroimaging mimics and diagnostic complexities. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:947-965. [PMID: 33999237 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04940-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury is responsible for approximately half of all childhood deaths from infancy to puberty, the majority of which are attributable to abusive head trauma (AHT). Due to the broad way patients present and the lack of a clear mechanism of injury in some cases, neuroimaging plays an integral role in the diagnostic pathway of these children. However, this nonspecific nature also presages the existence of numerous conditions that mimic both the clinical and neuroimaging findings seen in AHT. This propensity for misdiagnosis is compounded by the lack of pathognomonic patterns and clear diagnostic criteria. The repercussions of this are severe and have a profound stigmatic effect. The authors present an exhaustive review of the literature complemented by illustrative cases from their institutions with the aim of providing a framework with which to approach the neuroimaging and diagnosis of AHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Sidpra
- University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - Sahil Chhabda
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Adam J Oates
- Department of Radiology, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Aashim Bhatia
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Susan I Blaser
- Department of Radiology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK.
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11
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Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: what the radiologist needs to know. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:1023-1028. [PMID: 33999243 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04856-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a real diagnosis that is erroneously used to explain multiple fractures in suspected child abuse. This paper reviews the clinical and molecular diagnostic criteria for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. This knowledge can help prevent misdiagnosis and support clinicians when evaluating infants and young children with multiple fractures.
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12
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Shur NE, Summerlin ML, McIntosh BJ, Shalaby-Rana E, Hinds TS. Genetic causes of fractures and subdural hematomas: fact versus fiction. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:1029-1043. [PMID: 33999244 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04865-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Genetic disorders are in the differential diagnosis when young children present with unexplained fractures or intracranial hemorrhage. For medical and legal reasons, it is imperative to make the correct diagnosis and provide clear, evidence-based explanations of how alternative diagnoses were ruled out. A genetics consultation in cases of suspected child physical abuse should synthesize the history of present illness, medical history, family history, physical examination, and radiologic and laboratory findings in consultation with other specialists. The medical geneticist highlights how these disorders truly present. When the natural history of a genetic disorder is understood, it becomes clear that genetic disorders are not mysterious or difficult to diagnose. As highlighted in this case-based review, mainstream medical practice allows for differentiation among the intracranial and skeletal manifestations of osteogenesis imperfecta, Menkes disease, glutaric acidemia type 1 and child physical abuse. This review also highlights how a genetic disorder, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can be misused in a courtroom. Finally, this review summarizes when genetic testing is appropriate in cases of suspected child physical abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha E Shur
- Rare Disease Institute, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave., NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA. .,George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Maxwell L Summerlin
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Bruce J McIntosh
- Child Protection Team System, Children's Medical Service, Florida Department of Health, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Eglal Shalaby-Rana
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.,Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tanya S Hinds
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.,Child & Adolescent Protection Center, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
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13
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Gensemer C, Burks R, Kautz S, Judge DP, Lavallee M, Norris RA. Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: Complex phenotypes, challenging diagnoses, and poorly understood causes. Dev Dyn 2021; 250:318-344. [PMID: 32629534 PMCID: PMC7785693 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of heritable, connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. There is phenotypic and genetic variation among the 13 subtypes. The initial genetic findings on EDS were related to alterations in fibrillar collagen, but the elucidation of the molecular basis of many of the subtypes revealed several genes not involved in collagen biosynthesis or structure. However, the genetic basis of the hypermobile type of EDS (hEDS) is still unknown. hEDS is the most common type of EDS and involves generalized joint hypermobility, musculoskeletal manifestations, and mild skin involvement along with the presence of several comorbid conditions. Variability in the spectrum and severity of symptoms and progression of patient phenotype likely depend on age, gender, lifestyle, and expression domains of the EDS genes during development and postnatal life. In this review, we summarize the current molecular, genetic, epidemiologic, and pathogenetic findings related to EDS with a focus on the hypermobile type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cortney Gensemer
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Randall Burks
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Steven Kautz
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Daniel P. Judge
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Mark Lavallee
- Department of Family Medicine, Wellspan Health, York, Pennsylvania
| | - Russell A. Norris
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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Shur N, Summerlin ML, Robin NH, Moreno-Mendelson A, Shalaby-Rana E, Hinds T. Genetic consultations in cases of unexplained fractures and haemorrhage: an evidence-based approach. Curr Opin Pediatr 2021; 33:3-18. [PMID: 33337606 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000000986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW When infants and young children present with suspected physical abuse, it is critical to follow standard guidelines and rule out alternative causes of fracture and haemorrhage. A multidisciplinary team involved in the initial evaluation typically includes paediatrics, radiology, child protective services and/or law enforcement, and in complex cases, haematology, neurology, and genetics. A comprehensive genetics consultation includes review of the history of present illness, birth and past medical history, review of growth curves, family history, physical examination, radiological findings, and when indicated, biochemical and/ or genetic testing. RECENT FINDINGS A number of reports have mischaracterized several genetic disorders as child abuse mimics. There is a difference between a differential diagnosis, which includes every condition that can cause a fracture and/or subdural haemorrhage, and a mimic, so called because it can be difficult to differentiate from child abuse. In this review, we discuss the differential diagnosis for infantile fractures and subdural bleeds, highlight cardinal signs and symptoms of genetic disorders, and demonstrate that these genetic disorders can be readily differentiated and diagnosed using a stepwise approach. Genetic disorders rarely, if ever, are truly mimics of child physical abuse. SUMMARY In cases of suspected child physical abuse, multidisciplinary evaluations by paediatric specialists, keen clinical judgment, complete physical examinations, and judicious testing provides an evidence-based, time tested approach to excluding genetic disorders and diagnosing suspected child physical abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Shur
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Division of Genetics and Metabolism, Rare Disease Institute, Children's National Hospital
| | | | | | | | - Eglal Shalaby-Rana
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology
| | - Tanya Hinds
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Child & Adolescent Protection Center, Children's National Hospital, Washington DC
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15
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize the bone findings, mainly bone mass and fracture risk, in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS). RECENT FINDINGS Low bone mineral density and fractures seem to be frequent in some of the rare EDS types (kyphoscoliotic, arthrochalasia, spondylodysplastic, and classic-like EDS). For the more prevalent hypermobile and classic EDS types, some case-control studies found mildly decreased bone mineral density, but it was not clear that fracture rates were increased. Nevertheless, abnormalities in vertebral shape seem to be common in classical and hypermobile EDS types. In a cohort of individuals with EDS followed since birth, no fractures were observed during infancy. Bone mineral density varies widely among the different types of EDS, and vertebral abnormalities seem to be common in classical and hypermobile EDS. It might be justified to perform spine radiographs and bone mineral density assessments in newly diagnosed EDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaa Basalom
- Shriners Hospital for Children, 1003 Boulevard Decarie, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Frank Rauch
- Shriners Hospital for Children, 1003 Boulevard Decarie, Montreal, Québec, Canada.
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16
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Shur N, Tinkle B, Summar M, Frasier L, Shalaby‐Rana E, McIntosh B. Response to letter, broken bones, and irresponsible testimony: Enough is enough already: The flawed Ehlers–Danlos syndrome infant fragility theory should not rule. Am J Med Genet A 2019; 179:2335-2337. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Shur
- Division of Genetics and Metabolism, Rare Disease Institute Children's National Medical Center Washington District of Columbia
| | - Brad Tinkle
- Peyton Manning Children's Hospital Indianapolis Indiana
| | - Marshall Summar
- Children's National Medical Center Washington District of Columbia
| | - Lori Frasier
- Penn State Hershey Child Protection Program Hershey Pennsylvania
| | - Eglal Shalaby‐Rana
- Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology Children's National Health System Washington District of Columbia
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