A gynaecologic perspective on cloacal malformations

A novel SALL1 C757T mutation in a Chinese family causes a rare disease --Townes-Brocks syndrome

BACKGROUND

Townes-Brocks syndrome (TBS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by imperforate anus, dysplastic ears, thumb malformations, and other abnormalities. Previous studies have revealed that mutations in the SALL1 gene can disrupt normal development, resulting in the characteristic features of Townes-Brocks syndrome. Spalt-like transcription factors (SALLs) are highly conserved proteins that play important roles in various cellular processes, including embryonic development, cell differentiation, and cell survival. Over 400 different variants or mutations have been reported in the SALL1 gene in individuals with TBS. Most of these variants lead to the formation of premature termination codons (PTCs), also known as nonsense mutations. The majority of these PTCs occur in a specific region of the SALL1 gene called the "hotspot region", which is particularly susceptible to mutation.

METHODS

In this study, we conducted whole-exome sequencing on a three-generation Chinese family with anorectal malformations.

RESULTS

We identified a novel heterozygous mutation (chr16:51175376:c.757 C > T p.Gln253*) in the SALL1 gene. Molecular analysis revealed a heterozygous C to T transition at nucleotide position 757 in exon 2 of the SALL1 (NM_002968) gene. This mutation is predicted to result in the substitution of the Gln253 codon with a premature stop codon (p.Gln253*). The glutamine-rich domain forms a long alpha helix, enabling the mutant protein to interact with the wild-type SALL1 protein. This interaction may result in steric hindrance effects on the wild-type SALL1 protein.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings have expanded the mutation database of the SALL1 gene, which is significant for genetic counseling and clinical surveillance in the affected family. Furthermore, our study enhances the understanding of Townes-Brocks syndrome and has the potential to improve its diagnosis and treatment.

Obstructed Hemivagina and Renal Anomalies in Patients with and without Anorectal Malformations

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To compare the anatomic variation between patients with a diagnosis of an obstructed hemivagina with an anorectal malformation (ARM) and those without an ARM.

METHODS

This was a retrospective chart review conducted at a single tertiary children's hospital. Patients with an obstructed hemivagina seen from 2004 to 2019 were included.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 9 patients diagnosed with an obstructed hemivagina: 4 patients with a history of ARM and 5 patients without an ARM. Patients presented with obstructive symptoms between the ages of 11 and 20. Two-thirds of patients had a left-sided obstruction. All patients without an ARM had ipsilateral congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract. Half the patients with a history of ARM had an ipsilateral renal anomaly, and the other half had a contralateral renal anomaly.

CONCLUSION

Obstructed hemivagina occurs in patients with a history of ARM. However, unlike patients with isolated obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA), patients with an ARM and an obstructed hemivagina can present with associated renal anomalies on either the ipsilateral or contralateral side. In our small case series, patients with a history of ARM had high septa and required more complex surgical management due to the inability to access the septum vaginally. Knowledge of renal anatomy and ureteral path is important because a hysterectomy may be needed to relieve the obstruction in patients with ARMs. A larger case series is needed to better characterize the spectrum of complex anomalies in patients with ARMs.

Psychosocial factors affecting quality of life in patients with anorectal malformation and Hirschsprung disease-a qualitative systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Little is known about psychosocial and behavioral factors that impact the quality of life of patient's with anorectal malformations (ARM) and Hirschsprung disease (HSCR). We aimed to highlight the psychosocial, emotional, and behavioral themes that affect these patients.

METHODS

A qualitative literature review of articles published between 1980 and 2019 was performed. Articles that reported quality of life (QoL) measures not directly related to bowel function and incorporated data on patients aged 0-21 years old were included. Data were separated based on distinct developmental time points.

RESULTS

In the neonatal period, parents relayed uncertainty about the future and feeling overwhelmed by lack of social support. Difficulties with anxiety, peer rejection, and behavioral problems were noted in primary grades, while adolescents experienced low self-confidence, poor body image, and depression. Young adults expressed hesitancy to engage in romantic relationships or sexual activity. Lack of long-term follow-up, an incomplete transition to adult healthcare, and lack of psychology services leave young adults without guidance to manage a chronic condition.

CONCLUSION

Multiple psychosocial stressors are present in the lives of ARM and HSCR patients. Provision of developmentally matched medical, psychological, and community-based supports for ARM and HSCR patients and their families can lead to improved QoL.

Reconsidering Diagnosis, Treatment, and Postoperative Care in Children with Cloacal Malformations

Cloacal malformations are among the most complex types of anorectal malformation and are characterized by the urological, genital, and intestinal tracts opening through a single common channel in the perineum. Long-term outcome is affected by multiple factors, which include anatomical variants of the malformation itself, associated anomalies, and the surgical approach. Reconsidering these variables and their influence on "patient important" function might lead to strategies that are more outcome-driven than focused on the creation of normal anatomy. Key outcomes reflect function in each of the involved tracts and the follow-up needed should therefore not only include the classical fields of colorectal surgery and urology but also focus on items such as gynecology, sexuality, family-building, and quality of life as well as other psychological aspects. Involving patients and families in determining optimal treatment strategies and outcome measures could lead to improved outcomes for the individual patient. A strategy to support delivery of personalized care for patients with cloacal malformations by aiming to define the best functional outcomes achievable for any individual, then select the treatment pathway most likely deliver that, with the minimum morbidity and cost, would be attractive. Combining the current therapies with ongoing technological advances such as tissue expansion might be a way to achieve this.

Long-term urologic and gynecologic follow-up and the importance of collaboration for patients with anorectal malformations

Anorectal malformations (ARM) are well recognized to be associated with anomalies in other organ systems. The introduction of screening protocols has increased the diagnosis of these anomalies and greater collaboration with other specialties has influenced the treatment and follow-up of patients with ARMs. Much of the medical literature regarding the treatment of anorectal malformations has focused on technical details of operations and early post-surgical outcomes. Recently, an increase in published data regarding the long-term sequelae of an ARM diagnosis has resulted in an emphasis extended follow up in this population. Patient support groups have highlighted complex issues in ARM patients persist into adulthood have advocated for improved transitional care. This article describes the benefits of long-term follow-up and identifies key issues in ARM patients with respect to urologic and gynecologic health. A collaborative model of care is outlined and suggested timings of screening for potential problems is described.