Point-of-Care Thoracic Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis and Management of Kaposiform Lymphangiomatosis

Targeted therapies for vascular malformations

Targeted medical therapies for the treatment of vascular malformations is an exciting and evolving area of research. As the identification of specific causative genetic mutations involved in vascular malformations becomes more accessible and inexpensive, the development of targeted therapies to address these genetic anomalies becomes all the more enticing. It is an excellent example of the potential of translational research where basic science discoveries are translated to clinical practise from 'bench to bedside'. In this mini-review we aim to synopsise some of the recent studies published in this area with specific focus on the paediatric population. We also aim to highlight the growing demand for future research in the field to elucidate further the optimum duration of treatments, strategies for discontinuation, potential for combination of therapies and the effects of prolonged use of these medications.

Sirolimus in the treatment of kaposiform lymphangiomatosis

BACKGROUND

Kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA), which is a new subtype of generalized lymphatic anomaly, is a rare disease with a poor prognosis. Currently, there is no standard treatment due to the poor understanding of KLA. Sirolimus, which is an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin, has been shown to have promising potential in the treatment of complicated vascular anomalies. The aim of this study was to introduce the use of sirolimus for the treatment of KLA and to highlight the challenges of managing this refractory disease.

RESULTS

We reported seven patients with KLA who received sirolimus therapy in our center. Combined with previously reported cases, 58.3% achieved a partial response, 25.0% had stable disease, and 16.7% experienced disease progression. No severe sirolimus-related adverse events occurred during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that sirolimus is currently an option for the treatment of KLA, and it is hoped that more specific therapies will be developed in the future. Rapid advances in basic science and clinical practice may facilitate the development of important new treatments for KLA.

Beyond Point-of-Care Ultrasound: Bedside Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Soft Tissue Mass

Cancer is diagnosed in 1 in 7000 children annually. Here, we report 6 cases of a mass identified by the author, a novice sonographer in a pediatric emergency medicine fellowship, using point-of-care ultrasound, from January of 2017 to May of 2018. Identification of these cases early in presentation allowed for earlier involvement of the relevant specialist and shorter time to diagnosis and treatment, and might be expected to increase parent satisfaction as well.