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Costagliola G, De Marco E, Massei F, Roberti G, Catena F, Casazza G, Consolini R. The Etiologic Landscape of Lymphoproliferation in Childhood: Proposal for a Diagnostic Approach Exploring from Infections to Inborn Errors of Immunity and Metabolic Diseases. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2024; 20:261-274. [PMID: 38770035 PMCID: PMC11104440 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s462996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphoproliferation is defined by lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, or lymphocytic organ and tissue infiltration. The most common etiologies of lymphoproliferation are represented by infectious diseases and lymphoid malignancies. However, it is increasingly recognized that lymphoproliferative features can be the presenting sign of rare conditions, including inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and inborn errors of metabolism (IEM). Among IEI, lymphoproliferation is frequently observed in autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) and related disorders, common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase δ syndrome, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-related disorders. Gaucher disease and Niemann-Pick disease are the most common IEMs that can present with isolated lymphoproliferative features. Notably, other rare conditions, such as sarcoidosis, Castleman disease, systemic autoimmune diseases, and autoinflammatory disorders, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with persistent lymphoproliferation when infectious and malignant diseases have been reasonably ruled out. The clinical features of lymphoproliferative diseases, as well as the associated clinical findings and data deriving from imaging and first-level laboratory investigations, could significantly help in providing the correct diagnostic suspicion for the underlying etiology. This paper reviews the most relevant diseases associated with lymphoproliferation, including infectious diseases, hematological malignancies, IEI, and IEM. Moreover, some practical indications to orient the initial diagnostic process are provided, and two diagnostic algorithms are proposed for the first-level assessment and the approach to persistent lymphoproliferation, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Costagliola
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Marco
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Francesco Massei
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Giulia Roberti
- Pediatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Catena
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Gabriella Casazza
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Rita Consolini
- Section of Clinical and Laboratory Immunology, Pediatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56126, Italy
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Giacomarra M, Colomba P, Francofonte D, Zora M, Caocci G, Diomede D, Giuffrida G, Fiori L, Montanari C, Sapuppo A, Scortechini AR, Vitturi N, Duro G, Zizzo C. Gaucher Disease or Acid Sphingomyelinase Deficiency? The Importance of Differential Diagnosis. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1487. [PMID: 38592326 PMCID: PMC10932152 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Gaucher disease is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by functional glucocerebrosidase enzyme deficiency. Hepatosplenomegaly and hematological complications are found in both Gaucher disease and Acid Sphingomyelinase Deficiency, which is caused by acid sphingomyelinase dysfunction. The possible overlap in clinical presentation can cause diagnostic errors in differential diagnosis. For this reason, in patients with an initial clinical suspicion of Gaucher disease, we aimed to carry out a parallel screening of acid sphingomyelinase and glucocerebrosidase. Methods: Peripheral blood samples of 627 patients were collected, and enzymatic activity analysis was performed on both glucocerebrosidase and acid sphingomyelinase. The specific gene was studied in samples with null or reduced enzymatic activity. Specific molecular biomarkers helped to achieve the correct diagnosis. Results: In 98.7% of patients, normal values of glucocerebrosidase activity excluded Gaucher disease. In 8 of 627 patients (1.3%), the glucocerebrosidase enzymatic activity assay was below the normal range, so genetic GBA1 analysis confirmed the enzymatic defect. Three patients (0.5%) had normal glucocerebrosidase activity, so they were not affected by Gaucher disease, and showed decreased acid sphingomyelinase activity. SMPD1 gene mutations responsible for Acid Sphingomyelinase Deficiency were found. The levels of specific biomarkers found in these patients further strengthened the genetic data. Conclusions: Our results suggest that in the presence of typical signs and symptoms of Gaucher disease, Acid Sphingomyelinase Deficiency should be considered. For this reason, the presence of hepatosplenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, leukocytopenia, and anemia should alert clinicians to analyze both enzymes by a combined screening. Today, enzyme replacement therapy is available for the treatment of both pathologies; therefore, prompt diagnosis is essential for patients to start accurate treatment and to avoid diagnostic delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Giacomarra
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.G.); (P.C.); (D.F.); (M.Z.); (G.D.)
| | - Paolo Colomba
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.G.); (P.C.); (D.F.); (M.Z.); (G.D.)
| | - Daniele Francofonte
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.G.); (P.C.); (D.F.); (M.Z.); (G.D.)
| | - Marcomaria Zora
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.G.); (P.C.); (D.F.); (M.Z.); (G.D.)
| | - Giovanni Caocci
- Ematologia e Centro Trapianto di Midollo Osseo, Ospedale Businco, Via Jenner, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Daniela Diomede
- U.O.C. Ematologia e Trapianto, Ospedale “Mons. R. Dimiccoli”, Viale Ippocrate 15, 70051 Barletta, Italy;
| | - Gaetano Giuffrida
- Divisione Clinicizzata di Ematologia Sezione Trapianto di Midollo Osseo, Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele-Presidio Ospedaliero Ferrarotto, Via Citelli 6, 95124 Catania, Italy;
| | - Laura Fiori
- Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital, University of Milan, Via Castevetro 32, 20154 Milan, Italy;
| | - Chiara Montanari
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Giovanni Battista Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy;
| | - Annamaria Sapuppo
- Regional Referral Centre for Inborn Errors Metabolism, Pediatric Clinic, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Anna Rita Scortechini
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria delle Marche, Clinica Ematologica, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Nicola Vitturi
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, Division of Metabolic Diseases, University Hospital, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Duro
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.G.); (P.C.); (D.F.); (M.Z.); (G.D.)
| | - Carmela Zizzo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (M.G.); (P.C.); (D.F.); (M.Z.); (G.D.)
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Moutapam-Ngamby-Adriaansen Y, Maillot F, Labarthe F, Lioger B. Blood cytopenias as manifestations of inherited metabolic diseases: a narrative review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:65. [PMID: 38355710 PMCID: PMC10865644 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03074-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Inherited Metabolic Diseases (IMD) encompass a diverse group of rare genetic conditions that, despite their individual rarity, collectively affect a substantial proportion, estimated at as much as 1 in 784 live births. Among their wide-ranging clinical manifestations, cytopenia stands out as a prominent feature. Consequently, IMD should be considered a potential diagnosis when evaluating patients presenting with cytopenia. However, it is essential to note that the existing scientific literature pertaining to the link between IMD and cytopenia is limited, primarily comprising case reports and case series. This paucity of data may contribute to the inadequate recognition of the association between IMD and cytopenia, potentially leading to underdiagnosis. In this review, we synthesize our findings from a literature analysis along with our clinical expertise to offer a comprehensive insight into the clinical presentation of IMD cases associated with cytopenia. Furthermore, we introduce a structured diagnostic approach underpinned by decision-making algorithms, with the aim of enhancing the early identification and management of IMD-related cytopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Moutapam-Ngamby-Adriaansen
- Service de Médecine Interne, CHRU de Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France.
- Service de Médecine Interne Et Polyvalente, 2, Centre Hospitalier de Blois, Mail Pierre Charlot, 41000, Blois, France.
| | - François Maillot
- Service de Médecine Interne, CHRU de Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism ToTeM, CHRU de Tours, Hôpital Clocheville, 49 Bd Béranger, 37000, Tours, France
- INSERM U1253, iBrain, Université François Rabelais de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé, 37000, Tours, France
- INSERM U1069, Nutrition, Croissance et Cancer, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé, 37000, Tours, France
| | - François Labarthe
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism ToTeM, CHRU de Tours, Hôpital Clocheville, 49 Bd Béranger, 37000, Tours, France
- INSERM U1069, Nutrition, Croissance et Cancer, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé, 37000, Tours, France
- Service de Pédiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Bertrand Lioger
- Service de Médecine Interne Et Polyvalente, 2, Centre Hospitalier de Blois, Mail Pierre Charlot, 41000, Blois, France
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Wilson A, Chiorean A, Aguiar M, Sekulic D, Pavlick P, Shah N, Sniderman King L, Génin M, Rollot M, Blanchon M, Gosset S, Montmerle M, Molony C, Dumitriu A. Development of a rare disease algorithm to identify persons at risk of Gaucher disease using electronic health records in the United States. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:280. [PMID: 37689674 PMCID: PMC10492341 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02868-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early diagnosis of Gaucher disease (GD) allows for disease-specific treatment before significant symptoms arise, preventing/delaying onset of complications. Yet, many endure years-long diagnostic odysseys. We report the development of a machine learning algorithm to identify patients with GD from electronic health records. METHODS We utilized Optum's de-identified Integrated Claims-Clinical dataset (2007-2019) for feature engineering and algorithm training/testing, based on clinical characteristics of GD. Two algorithms were selected: one based on age of feature occurrence (age-based), and one based on occurrence of features (prevalence-based). Performance was compared with an adaptation of the available clinical diagnostic algorithm for identifying patients with diagnosed GD. Undiagnosed patients highly-ranked by the algorithms were compared with diagnosed GD patients. RESULTS Splenomegaly was the most important predictor for diagnosed GD with both algorithms, followed by geographical location (northeast USA), thrombocytopenia, osteonecrosis, bone density disorders, and bone pain. Overall, 1204 and 2862 patients, respectively, would need to be assessed with the age- and prevalence-based algorithms, compared with 20,743 with the clinical diagnostic algorithm, to identify 28 patients with diagnosed GD in the integrated dataset. Undiagnosed patients highly-ranked by the algorithms had similar clinical manifestations as diagnosed GD patients. CONCLUSIONS The age-based algorithm identified younger patients, while the prevalence-based identified patients with advanced clinical manifestations. Their combined use better captures GD heterogeneity. The two algorithms were about 10-20-fold more efficient at identifying GD patients than the clinical diagnostic algorithm. Application of these algorithms could shorten diagnostic delay by identifying undiagnosed GD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Wilson
- Health Economics and Value Assessment, Sanofi, Cambridge, MA USA
| | | | - Mario Aguiar
- Global Medical Affairs, RD Hematology, Sanofi, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Davorka Sekulic
- Global Medical Affairs, RD Hematology, Sanofi, Cambridge, MA USA
| | | | - Neha Shah
- Medical Diagnostics, Sanofi, Cambridge, MA USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alexandra Dumitriu
- Global Medical Affairs, Medical Evidence Generation, Sanofi, Cambridge, MA USA
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Pession A, Di Rocco M, Venturelli F, Tappino B, Morello W, Santoro N, Giordano P, Filippini B, Rinieri S, Russo G, Girardi K, Ruggiero A, Galea E, Antonucci R, Tovaglieri N, Porta F, Tartaglione I, Giona F, Fagioli F, Burlina A. GAU-PED study for early diagnosis of Gaucher disease in children with splenomegaly and cytopenia. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:151. [PMID: 37328863 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02760-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gaucher disease (GD) diagnosis can be delayed due to non-specific symptoms and lack of awareness, leading to unnecessary procedures and irreversible complications. GAU-PED study aims to assess GD prevalence in a high-risk pediatric population and the presence, if any, of novel clinical or biochemical markers associated with GD. MATERIALS AND METHODS DBS samples were collected and tested for β-glucocerebrosidase enzyme activity for 154 patients selected through the algorithm proposed by Di Rocco et al. Patients showing β-glucocerebrosidase activity below normal values were recalled to confirm the enzyme deficiency with the gold standard essay on cellular homogenate. Patients tested positive at the gold standard analysis were evaluated through GBA1 gene sequencing. RESULTS 14 out of 154 patients were diagnosed with GD, with a prevalence of 9.09% (5.06-14.78%, CI 95%). Hepatomegaly, thrombocytopenia, anemia, growth delay/deceleration, elevated serum ferritin, elevated Lyso-Gb1 and chitotriosidase were significantly associated with GD. CONCLUSIONS GD prevalence in a pediatric population at high-risk appeared to be higher compared to high-risk adults. Lyso-Gb1 was associated with GD diagnosis. The algorithm proposed by Di Rocco et al. can potentially improve the diagnostic accuracy of pediatric GD, allowing the prompt start of therapy, aiming to reduce irreversible complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pession
- Pediatric Unit, S. Orsola - Malpighi Clinic, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maja Di Rocco
- Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Venturelli
- Pediatric Unit, S. Orsola - Malpighi Clinic, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Barbara Tappino
- Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - William Morello
- Pediatric Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Santoro
- Paediatric Oncology Department, Bari Policlinico General Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Giordano
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | - Beatrice Filippini
- SSD Oncoematologia Pediatrica U.O. Pediatria, Dipartimento Salute, Donna, Infanzia e Adolescenza Ospedale Infermi Rimini, Rimini, Italy
| | - Simona Rinieri
- Pediatric Onco-Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Paediatric Oncohematology Unit, University of Catania Medical School, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Katia Girardi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant'Onofrio, 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Ruggiero
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Eulalia Galea
- Department of Pediatric Onco-Hematology, Pugliese Ciaccio Hospital, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberto Antonucci
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | | | - Immacolata Tartaglione
- Pediatric Hematology Unit, Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, Università degli Studi della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Fiorina Giona
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Franca Fagioli
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, TO, Italy
| | - Alberto Burlina
- Division of Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Reference Centre Expanded Newborn Screening, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital, Padua, Italy
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Cappellini MD, Motta I, Barbato A, Giuffrida G, Manna R, Carubbi F, Giona F. Similarities and differences between Gaucher disease and acid sphingomyelinase deficiency: An algorithm to support the diagnosis. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 108:81-84. [PMID: 36443133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Lysosomal storage disorders are a group of inborn errors of metabolism due to defects in proteins crucial for lysosomal function. Gaucher disease is the most common autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder due to mutations in the GBA1 gene, resulting in the lysosomal deficiency of glucocerebrosidase activity. Gaucher disease is characterized by the toxic accumulation of glucosylceramide in the reticuloendothelial system. Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD), previously known as Niemann Pick A/B disease, is also an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder due to mutations in the SMPD1 gene, which result in acid sphingomyelinase deficiency and the accumulation of sphingomyelin in mononuclear phagocytic system and hepatocytes. The phenotypic expression of Gaucher disease type 1 (GD1), the most common type, and chronic visceral ASMD may overlap for several signs or symptoms. Splenomegaly is detectable in approximately 90% of the patients in both conditions; however, since GD1 is more frequent than ASMD, clinicians are more prone to suspect it, often neglecting the diagnosis of ASMD. Based on previous experience, a group of experts in the clinical and laboratory diagnosis, management, and treatment of lysosomal storage disorders developed an algorithm for both GD1 and ASMD to support physicians, including primary care providers, internists, and specialists (e.g., hepatologists, hematologists, and pulmonologists) to suspect and differentiate GD1 and ASMD and to provide the appropriate referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Domenica Cappellini
- Unit of Medicine and Metabolic Disease, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Irene Motta
- Unit of Medicine and Metabolic Disease, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Barbato
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples Medical School, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giuffrida
- Centro di riferimento regionale per la prevenzione, diagnosi e cura delle malattie rare, Division of Haematology, A.O.U Policlinico-S. Marco, Università degli studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Raffaele Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Carubbi
- Metabolic Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Fiorina Giona
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
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Pehrsson M, Heikkinen H, Wartiovaara-Kautto U, Mäntylahti S, Bäckström P, Lassenius MI, Uusi-Rauva K, Carpén O, Elomaa K. Screening for potential undiagnosed Gaucher disease patients: Utilisation of the Gaucher earlier diagnosis consensus point-scoring system (GED-C PSS) in conjunction with electronic health record data, tissue specimens, and small nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotype data available in Finnish biobanks. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2022; 33:100911. [PMID: 36092251 PMCID: PMC9449642 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2022.100911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autosomal recessive Gaucher disease (GD) is likely underdiagnosed in many countries. Because the number of diagnosed GD patients in Finland is relatively low, and the true prevalence is currently not known, it was hypothesized that undiagnosed GD patients may exist in Finland. Our previous study demonstrated the applicability of Gaucher Earlier Diagnosis Consensus point-scoring system (GED-C PSS; Mehta et al., 2019) and Finnish biobank data and specimens in the automated point scoring of large populations. An indicative point-score range for Finnish GD patients was determined, but undiagnosed patients were not identified partly due to high number of high-score subjects in combination with a lack of suitable samples for diagnostics in the assessed biobank population. The current study extended the screening to another biobank and evaluated the feasibility of utilising the automated GED-C PSS in conjunction with small nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip genotype data from the FinnGen study of biobank sample donors in the identification of undiagnosed GD patients in Finland. Furthermore, the applicability of FFPE tissues and DNA restoration in the next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the GBA gene were tested. Methods Previously diagnosed Finnish GD patients eligible to the study, and up to 45,100 sample donors in Helsinki Biobank (HBB) were point scored. The GED-C point scoring, adjusted to local data, was automated, but also partly manually verified for GD patients. The SNP chip genotype data for rare GBA variants was visually assessed. FFPE tissues of GD patients were obtained from HBB and Biobank Borealis of Northern Finland (BB). Results Three previously diagnosed GD patients and one patient previously treated for GD-related features were included. A genetic diagnosis was confirmed for the patient treated for GD-related features. The GED-C point score of the GD patients was 12.5–22.5 in the current study. The score in eight Finnish GD patients of the previous and the current study is thus 6–22.5 points per patient. In the automated point scoring of the HBB subpopulation (N ≈ 45,100), the overall scores ranged from 0 to 17.5, with 0.77% (346/45,100) of the subjects having ≥10 points. The analysis of SNP chip genotype data was able to identify the diagnosed GD patients, but potential undiagnosed patients with the GED-C score and/or the GBA genotype indicative of GD were not discovered. Restoration of the FFPE tissue DNA improved the quality of the GBA NGS, and pathogenic GBA variants were confirmed in five out of six unrestored and in all four restored FFPE DNA samples. Discussion These findings imply that the prevalence of diagnosed patients (~1:325,000) may indeed correspond the true prevalence of GD in Finland. The SNP chip genotype data is a valuable tool that complements the screening with the GED-C PSS, especially if the genotyping pipeline is tuned for rare variants. These proof-of-concept biobank tools can be adapted to other rare genetic diseases.
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Trivedi VS, Magnusen AF, Rani R, Marsili L, Slavotinek AM, Prows DR, Hopkin RJ, McKay MA, Pandey MK. Targeting the Complement-Sphingolipid System in COVID-19 and Gaucher Diseases: Evidence for a New Treatment Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:14340. [PMID: 36430817 PMCID: PMC9695449 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)-induced disease (COVID-19) and Gaucher disease (GD) exhibit upregulation of complement 5a (C5a) and its C5aR1 receptor, and excess synthesis of glycosphingolipids that lead to increased infiltration and activation of innate and adaptive immune cells, resulting in massive generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. This C5a-C5aR1-glycosphingolipid pathway- induced pro-inflammatory environment causes the tissue damage in COVID-19 and GD. Strikingly, pharmaceutically targeting the C5a-C5aR1 axis or the glycosphingolipid synthesis pathway led to a reduction in glycosphingolipid synthesis and innate and adaptive immune inflammation, and protection from the tissue destruction in both COVID-19 and GD. These results reveal a common involvement of the complement and glycosphingolipid systems driving immune inflammation and tissue damage in COVID-19 and GD, respectively. It is therefore expected that combined targeting of the complement and sphingolipid pathways could ameliorate the tissue destruction, organ failure, and death in patients at high-risk of developing severe cases of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vyoma Snehal Trivedi
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Albert Frank Magnusen
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Reena Rani
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Luca Marsili
- Department of Neurology, James J. and Joan A. Gardner Center for Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders, University of Cincinnati, 3113 Bellevue Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Anne Michele Slavotinek
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Daniel Ray Prows
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Robert James Hopkin
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Mary Ashley McKay
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Manoj Kumar Pandey
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Human Genetics, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Building R1, MLC 7016, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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Muacevic A, Adler JR. Targeted Screening for Gaucher Disease in High Suspicion Patients and Clinical Profile of Screen Positives in a Large Pediatric Multispecialty Hospital. Cureus 2022; 14:e29868. [PMID: 36348851 PMCID: PMC9630059 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The proposed screening study was aimed at determining the prevalence of Gaucher disease in a selected high-risk population of patients and describing the clinical profile of diagnosed patients. METHODOLOGY It was a prospective observational study from January 2020 to September 2022 (two years and eight months) in the genetic clinic of the pediatric department. A total of 22 patients were suspected to be having Gaucher disease based on clinical findings of hepatosplenomegaly with bicytopenia or isolated thrombocytopenia. In these patients, chronic liver disease, portal hypertension, and other hematological conditions were ruled out. Three patients with Gaucher disease applied for enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) support under India Charitable Access Program and one patient received therapy for two months. Clinical findings were compared before and after ERT. Clinical findings were noted in all patients. RESULTS Among the 22 patients, nine (40.9%) patients were confirmed to be suffering from Gaucher disease with six based on enzyme assay on dry blood spot and three based on DNA mutation analysis. One patient among the screen positives received ERT for two months and was noted to have an improvement in hemoglobin and platelet count, a reduction in liver size, and better general well-being. CONCLUSION High-suspicion targeted screening of Gaucher disease in patients with splenomegaly and thrombocytopenia based on a dry blood spot enzyme assay is high yielding, effective strategy in identifying Gaucher disease patients. Clinical features were variable in severity, though a common mutation was found in the majority of patients.
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10
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Do YR, Choi Y, Heo MH, Kim JS, Yoon JH, Lee JH, Park JS, Sohn SK, Kim SH, Lim S, Chung JS, Jo DY, Eom HS, Kim H, Jeon SY, Won JH, Lee HJ, Shin JW, Jang JH, Yoon SS. Early diagnosis of Gaucher disease in Korean patients with unexplained splenomegaly: a multicenter observational study. Blood Res 2022; 57:207-215. [PMID: 35880496 PMCID: PMC9492528 DOI: 10.5045/br.2022.2022089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by excessive accumulation of glucosylceramide in multiple organs. This study was performed to determine the detection rate of GD in a selected patient population with unexplained splenomegaly in Korea. Methods This was a multicenter, observational study conducted at 18 sites in Korea between December 2016 and February 2020. Adult patients with unexplained splenomegaly were enrolled and tested for β-glucosidase enzyme activity on dried blood spots (DBS) and in peripheral blood leukocytes. Mutation analysis was performed if the test was positive or indeterminate for the enzyme assay. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients with GD in patients with unexplained splenomegaly. Results A total of 352 patients were enrolled in this study (male patients, 199; mean age, 48.42 yr). Amongst them, 14.77% of patients had concomitant hepatomegaly. The most common sign related to GD was splenomegaly (100%), followed by thrombocytopenia (44.32%) and, anemia (40.91%). The β-glucosidase activity assay on DBS and peripheral leukocytes showed abnormal results in sixteen and six patients, respectively. Eight patients were tested for the mutation, seven of whom were negative and one patient showed a positive mutation analysis result. One female patient who presented with splenomegaly and thrombocytopenia was diagnosed with type 1 GD. The detection rate of GD was 0.2841% (exact 95% CI, 0.0072‒1.5726). Conclusion The detection rate of GD in probable high-risk patients in Korea was lower than expected. However, the role of hemato-oncologists is still important in the diagnosis of GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Rok Do
- Department of Internal Medicine, Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yunsuk Choi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Mi Hwa Heo
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jin Seok Kim
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Ho Yoon
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic Hematology Hospital and Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Je-Hwan Lee
- Department of Hematology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon Seong Park
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Sang Kyun Sohn
- Departments of Oncology/Hematology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Sungnam Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Joo Seop Chung
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Deog-Yeon Jo
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hyeon Seok Eom
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Center for Hematologic Malignancy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Hawk Kim
- Division of Hematology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - So Yeon Jeon
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Jong-Ho Won
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hemato-Oncology, Chosun University Hospital, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jung Won Shin
- Sanofi, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun-Ho Jang
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Soo Yoon
- Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Scaramellini N, Croci G, De Magistris C, Panzieri DL, Cassinerio E, Marcon A, Nascimbeni F, Quarta A, Cappellini MD, Motta I. Splenomegaly: Dare to think rare. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:1259-1265. [PMID: 35384034 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Scaramellini
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Giorgio Croci
- Division of Pathology Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Claudio De Magistris
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Daniele Lello Panzieri
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Elena Cassinerio
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
| | - Alessia Marcon
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Fabio Nascimbeni
- Regional Referral Centre for Lysosomal Storage Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine and Metabolism University Hospital of Baggiovara, AOU of Modena Modena Italy
| | - Antonella Quarta
- Microcythemia Center Hematology with Transplant Unit, “A. Perrino” Hospital Brindisi Italy
| | - Maria Domenica Cappellini
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
| | - Irene Motta
- Rare Diseases Center, General Medicine Unit Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
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Magnusen AF, Rani R, McKay MA, Hatton SL, Nyamajenjere TC, Magnusen DNA, Köhl J, Grabowski GA, Pandey MK. C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 9 and Its CXCR3 Receptor Are the Salt and Pepper for T Cells Trafficking in a Mouse Model of Gaucher Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312712. [PMID: 34884512 PMCID: PMC8657559 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gaucher disease is a lysosomal storage disease, which happens due to mutations in GBA1/Gba1 that encodes the enzyme termed as lysosomal acid β-glucosidase. The major function of this enzyme is to catalyze glucosylceramide (GC) into glucose and ceramide. The deficiency of this enzyme and resultant abnormal accumulation of GC cause altered function of several of the innate and adaptive immune cells. For example, augmented infiltration of T cells contributes to the increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, (e.g., IFNγ, TNFα, IL6, IL12p40, IL12p70, IL23, and IL17A/F). This leads to tissue damage in a genetic mouse model (Gba19V/-) of Gaucher disease. The cellular mechanism(s) by which increased tissue infiltration of T cells occurs in this disease is not fully understood. Here, we delineate role of the CXCR3 receptor and its exogenous C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 9 (CXCL9) in induction of increased tissue recruitment of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells in Gaucher disease. Intracellular FACS staining of macrophages (Mϕs) and dendritic cells (DCs) from Gba19V/- mice showed elevated production of CXCL9. Purified CD4+ T cells and the CD8+ T cells from Gba19V/- mice showed increased expression of CXCR3. Ex vivo and in vivo chemotaxis experiments showed CXCL9 involvement in the recruitment of Gba19V/- T cells. Furthermore, antibody blockade of the CXCL9 receptor (CXCR3) on T cells caused marked reduction in CXCL9- mediated chemotaxis of T cells in Gba19V/- mice. These data implicate abnormalities of the CXCL9-CXCR3 axis leading to enhanced tissue recruitment of T cells in Gaucher disease. Such results provide a rationale for blockade of the CXCL9/CXCR3 axis as potential new therapeutic targets for the treatment of inflammation in Gaucher disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Frank Magnusen
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.F.M.); (M.A.M.); (S.L.H.); (T.C.N.); (D.N.A.M.)
| | - Reena Rani
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA;
| | - Mary Ashley McKay
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.F.M.); (M.A.M.); (S.L.H.); (T.C.N.); (D.N.A.M.)
| | - Shelby Loraine Hatton
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.F.M.); (M.A.M.); (S.L.H.); (T.C.N.); (D.N.A.M.)
| | - Tsitsi Carol Nyamajenjere
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.F.M.); (M.A.M.); (S.L.H.); (T.C.N.); (D.N.A.M.)
| | - Daniel Nii Aryee Magnusen
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.F.M.); (M.A.M.); (S.L.H.); (T.C.N.); (D.N.A.M.)
| | - Jörg Köhl
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany;
- Department of Pediatrics and Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Gregory Alex Grabowski
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Manoj Kumar Pandey
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Correspondence:
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Confounding factors in the diagnosis and clinical course of rare congenital hemolytic anemias. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:415. [PMID: 34627331 PMCID: PMC8501562 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02036-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital hemolytic anemias (CHAs) comprise defects of the erythrocyte membrane proteins and of red blood cell enzymes metabolism, along with alterations of erythropoiesis. These rare and heterogeneous conditions may generate several difficulties from the diagnostic point of view. Membrane defects include hereditary spherocytosis and elliptocytosis, and the group of hereditary stomatocytosis; glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and pyruvate kinase, are the most common enzyme deficiencies. Among ultra-rare forms, it is worth reminding other enzyme defects (glucosephosphate isomerase, phosphofructokinase, adenylate kinase, triosephosphate isomerase, phosphoglycerate kinase, hexokinase, and pyrimidine 5′-nucleotidase), and congenital dyserythropoietic anemias. Family history, clinical findings (anemia, hemolysis, splenomegaly, gallstones, and iron overload), red cells morphology, and biochemical tests are well recognized diagnostic tools. Molecular findings are increasingly used, particularly in recessive and de novo cases, and may be fundamental in unraveling the diagnosis. Notably, several confounders may further challenge the diagnostic workup, including concomitant blood loss, nutrients deficiency, alterations of hemolytic markers due to other causes (alloimmunization, infectious agents, rare metabolic disorders), coexistence of other hemolytic disorders (autoimmune hemolytic anemia, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, etc.). Additional factors to be considered are the possible association with bone marrow, renal or hepatic diseases, other causes of iron overload (hereditary hemochromatosis, hemoglobinopathies, metabolic diseases), and the presence of extra-hematological signs/symptoms. In this review we provide some instructive clinical vignettes that highlight the difficulties and confounders encountered in the diagnosis and clinical management of CHAs.
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