Newborn screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia in Tokyo, Japan from 1989 to 2013: a retrospective population-based study

A MinION-based Long-Read Sequencing Application With One-Step PCR for the Genetic Diagnosis of 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency

CONTEXT

Recently developed long-read sequencing (LRS) technology has been considered an option for CYP21A2 analysis. However, the clinical use of LRS for CYP21A2 analysis is limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study's objective is to develop an efficient and low-cost LRS system for CYP21A2 screening.

METHODS

A DNA fragment library was prepared in a single polymerase chain reaction (PCR) that covers the entire CYP21A2 gene and all known junctions caused by TNXB gene structural rearrangements, yielding a single 8-kb product of CYP21A2 or CYP21A1P/CYP21A2 chimera. After barcoding, the PCR products were sequenced on a MinION-based platform with Flongle Flow Cell R9.4.1 and R10.4.1.

RESULTS

The reference genotypes of 55 patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) were established using the conventional method with multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and nested PCR. LRS using Flongle Flow Cell R9.4.1 yielded consistent results. Additionally, the recently updated LRS "duplex" analysis with Flongle flow cell R10.4.1 was tested to reveal an advantage of accurately sequencing a variant located on the homopolymer region. By introducing a barcode system, the cost was reduced to be comparable to that of conventional analysis. A novel single-nucleotide variation was discovered at the acceptor site of intron 7, c.940-1G > C. We also identified a subtype of the classical chimeric junction CH2, "CH2a," in the region from the latter part of intron 5 to exon 6.

CONCLUSION

We successfully established a novel low-cost and highly accurate LRS system for 21OHD genetic analysis. Our study provides insight into the feasibility of LRS for diagnosing 21OHD and other genetic diseases caused by structural rearrangements.

Factors influencing illness uncertainty in parents of children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia in a developing country: A cross-sectional study

Background

Illness uncertainty in parents of children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) refers to parents' inability to create meaning in events related to their children having CAH. This may influence their role in caring for children with CAH.

Objective

The study aimed to determine factors associated with illness uncertainty experienced by parents of children with CAH in a developing country.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 parents (43 mothers and 37 fathers) of children with CAH, selected using consecutive sampling methods. The Parent's Perception of Uncertainty Scale (PPUS) was used to measure the illness uncertainty levels. Data were collected from March 2020 to October 2020. Independent t-test and chi-square test were used to determine factors (parent's gender, age, educational level, monthly household income, number of children with CAH, history of child death due to CAH, child's age when first diagnosed with CAH, duration of therapy, gender change, type of CAH (salt wasting/SW or simple virilizing/SV), current gender, and genitoplasty) influencing illness uncertainty in parents.

Results

The mean scores of PPUS were 42.3 ± 12.91, and the majority of parents had a low PPUS score (49; 61%). Parents of children with SW-CAH showed higher uncertainty (44.2 ± 12.77) than those with SV-CAH (32.6 ± 8.86; p = 0.003). Parents who lost their children due to CAH were more likely to report a moderate illness uncertainty than parents who never experienced child mortality due to CAH (χ²(1, 80) = 4.893; p = 0.027).

Conclusion

The factors significantly affecting uncertainty in parents of children with CAH determined in this study might help healthcare professionals, including nurses, to play a pivotal role in giving pertinent information regarding their children's health, disease, and therapy to help manage parental uncertainty.

The High Relevance of 21-Deoxycortisol, (Androstenedione + 17α-Hydroxyprogesterone)/Cortisol, and 11-Deoxycortisol/17α-Hydroxyprogesterone for Newborn Screening of 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency

CONTEXT

There are limited reports on the detailed examination of steroid profiles for setting algorithms for 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) screening by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to define an algorithm for newborn screening of 21OHD by LC-MS/MS, measuring a total of 2077 dried blood spot samples in Tokyo.

METHODS

Five steroids (17α-hydroxyprogesterone [17αOHP], 21-deoxycortisol [21DOF], 11-deoxycortisol [11DOF], androstenedione [4AD], and cortisol [F]) were included in the panel of LC-MS/MS. Samples from 2 cohorts were assayed: Cohort A, 63 "screening positive" neonates who were referred to an endocrinologist (n = 26 with 21OHD; n = 37 false-positive; obtained from 2015 to 2020); and Cohort B, samples (n = 2014) with 17αOHP values in the 97th percentile or above, in the first-tier test with 17αOHP ELISA from 2020 to 2021.

RESULTS

Analysis of Cohort A revealed that the 3 indexes 21DOF, 11DOF/17αOHP, and (4AD + 17αOHP)/F had higher area under the curve (AUC) values (0.999, 0.997, 0.989, respectively), while the 17αOHP AUC was lower (0.970). Accordingly, in addition to 17αOHP, the 3 markers were included for defining the screening algorithm. The assay of Cohort B revealed that the new algorithm gave 92% of predicted positive predictive value without false-negative cases. We also determined the reference values for the 5 steroids at 4 to 7 days after birth, according to sex and gestational age (GA), revealing extremely low levels of 21DOF at any GA irrespective of sex differences.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated the high relevance of 21DOF, (4AD + 17αOHP)/F, and 11DOF/17αOHP, rather than 17αOHP, for 21OHD screening.

Toward Improving the Transition of Patients With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia From Pediatrics to Adult Healthcare in Japan

The transition of patients with childhood-onset chronic diseases from pediatric to adult healthcare systems has recently received significant attention. Since 2013, the Japan Pediatric Society developed working groups to formulate guidelines for transition of patients with childhood-onset chronic diseases from pediatric to their disease specialty. Herein, we report on the activities of the Japan Society of Pediatric Endocrinology (JSPE) and the current status of transition medicine for 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) in Japan. The JSPE proposed roadmaps and checklists for transition and prepared surveys on the current status of healthcare transition for childhood-onset endocrine diseases. In Japan, newborn screening for 21-OHD started in January 1989; however, there is no nationwide registry-based longitudinal cohort study on 21-OHD from birth to adult. The current status and the whole picture of healthcare and health problems in adult patients with 21-OHD remain unclear. Thus, we conducted a questionnaire survey on JSPE members to clarify the current status of healthcare transition of 21-OHD and discuss future perspectives for the healthcare transition of patients with 21-OHD in Japan.

Epidemiology and Long-Term Adverse Outcomes in Korean Patients with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Nationwide Study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies on the epidemiology and complications of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) were conducted in Western countries and in children/adolescents. We aimed to explore the epidemiology of CAH, as well as the risk of comorbidities and mortality, in a Korean nationwide case-control study.

METHODS

CAH patients (n=2,840) were included between 2002 and 2017 from the National Health Insurance Service database and the Rare Intractable Disease program. CAH patients were compared, at a 1:10 ratio, with age-, sex-, and index year-matched controls (n=28,400).

RESULTS

The point prevalence of CAH patients in Korea was 1 in 18,745 persons in 2017. The annual incidence rate declined between 2003 and 2017 from 3.25 to 0.41 per 100,000 persons. CAH patients were at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease (odds ratio [OR], 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4 to 1.9), stroke (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.3 to 2.0), diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 2.6 to 3.1), dyslipidemia (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 2.2 to 2.6), and psychiatric disorders (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.3 to 1.6). Fracture risk increased in CAH patients aged over 40 years (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.7). CAH patients were at higher risk of mortality than controls (hazard ratio, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.3 to 2.0).

CONCLUSION

Our nationwide study showed a recent decline in the incidence of CAH and an elevated risk for cardiovascular, metabolic, skeletal, and psychiatric disorders in CAH patients. Lifelong management for comorbidity risk is a crucial component of treating CAH patients.

Current status of transition medicine for 21-hydroxylase deficiency in Japan: from the perspective of pediatric endocrinologists

To manage of 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD), transition medicine from pediatric to adult health care is an important process and requires individually optimized approaches. We sent cross-sectional questionnaire surveys on the current status of transition from pediatric to adult health care in 21-OHD patients to all councillors of the Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology. Many pediatric departments (42.2%) experienced adult 21-OHD patients, and 115 patients (53 males, mean age of 26) in 46 institutions were identified. Whereas almost two-thirds of pediatric endocrinologists regarded the problems of counterparts and cooperation as hindrance of transition medicine, the major reason for continuing to be treated in pediatrics was the patient's own request. The prevalence of long-term complications including obesity, osteoporosis, infertility, menstrual disorder, gender dysphoria, and testicular adrenal rest tumor were 27.5%, 8.8%, 11.1%, 26.3%, 7.1%, 12.5%, respectively, which is comparable to those of other cohorts previously reported. However, several items, especially infertility and osteoporosis were not checked well enough in adult 21-OHD patients treated in pediatrics. Though 44 of 62 female patients had genital reconstructive surgery, more than half of them were not followed up by gynecologists or pediatric urologists. Quite a few adult 21-OHD patients had been followed up in pediatrics even after coming of age; however, surveillance by pediatric endocrinologists of gynecological, reproductive, and mental problems may be insufficient. Therefore, multidisciplinary approaches should be required in transition medicine for 21-OHD and prerequisite for graduation of pediatrics. Pediatric endocrinologists will need to play a leading role in the development of transition systems.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia-Current Insights in Pathophysiology, Diagnostics, and Management

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders affecting cortisol biosynthesis. Reduced activity of an enzyme required for cortisol production leads to chronic overstimulation of the adrenal cortex and accumulation of precursors proximal to the blocked enzymatic step. The most common form of CAH is caused by steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency due to mutations in CYP21A2. Since the last publication summarizing CAH in Endocrine Reviews in 2000, there have been numerous new developments. These include more detailed understanding of steroidogenic pathways, refinements in neonatal screening, improved diagnostic measurements utilizing chromatography and mass spectrometry coupled with steroid profiling, and improved genotyping methods. Clinical trials of alternative medications and modes of delivery have been recently completed or are under way. Genetic and cell-based treatments are being explored. A large body of data concerning long-term outcomes in patients affected by CAH, including psychosexual well-being, has been enhanced by the establishment of disease registries. This review provides the reader with current insights in CAH with special attention to these new developments.

Clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of 21-hydroxylase deficiency (2021 revision)

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a category of disorders characterized by impaired adrenocortical steroidogenesis. The most frequent disorder of congenital adrenal hyperplasia is 21-hydroxylase deficiency, which is caused by pathogenic variants of CAY21A2 and is prevalent between 1 in 18,000 and 20,000 in Japan. The clinical guidelines for 21-hydroxylase deficiency in Japan have been revised twice since a diagnostic handbook in Japan was published in 1989. On behalf of the Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, the Japanese Society for Mass Screening, the Japanese Society for Urology, and the Japan Endocrine Society, the working committee updated the guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of 21-hydroxylase deficiency published in 2014, based on recent evidence and knowledge related to this disorder. The recommendations in the updated guidelines can be applied in clinical practice considering the risks and benefits to each patient.

Access to fludrocortisone and to hydrocortisone in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region: it takes a village…

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), if untreated, carries high morbidity and mortality. A higher incidence of CAH is expected in countries where consanguinity is common, such as in the countries of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO). CAH is managed through lifelong treatment with fludrocortisone and hydrocortisone. In this analysis, performed in the 22 EMRO countries and territories plus Algeria, we review which countries offer a neonatal screening programme for CAH and describe the barriers and opportunities to access oral fludrocortisone and oral and injectable hydrocortisone. Neonatal CAH screening was only available nationally in Qatar, Kuwait and partially in Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. We reviewed the national lists of essential medicines (NEMLs) and found that 13/23 (57%) countries included fludrocortisone and 18/23 (78%) included oral hydrocortisone. Fludrocortisone was not included by any of the low-income countries and oral hydrocortisone was only included by one low-income country. We then contacted paediatric endocrinologists in each country to assess perceived availability of these medicines. Overall, there was a relatively good consistency between inclusion of fludrocortisone and hydrocortisone in the NEML and their actual availability in a country. We propose several mechanisms to improve access, including prequalification by the WHO, a common registration process for groups of countries, pooled procurement, working with local pharmaceutical companies, special access status for medicines not yet registered in a country and compounding. We suggest that access to medicines requires a collaboration between health professionals, families of patients, health authorities, pharmaceutical companies and the WHO.

Adrenal suppression and anthropometric data at two years of age was not influenced by the initial hydrocortisone dose in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency

In contrast to the glucocorticoid maintenance therapy employed in patients with 21 hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD), the initial therapy remains to be optimized. The Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology recommends a hydrocortisone (HC) dose of 25-100 mg/m², which is higher than that employed in Western countries. Herein, we aimed to retrospectively verify the impact of initial HC treatment during infancy and early childhood. Between 2010 and 2018, 15 classical patients with 21OHD were enrolled and divided into the following groups based on initial HC therapy: high dose group (HDG, n = 6), medium dose group (MDG, n = 5), and low dose group (LDG, n = 4). In the HDG and MDG, HC was initiated at 100 mg/m² and reduced to maintenance doses over 4-6 mo and 2-3 wk, respectively. In the LDG, HC was initiated with a maintenance dose of 7 mg/d, accompanied by fludrocortisone and oral NaCl. During the second year, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone was sufficiently suppressed in all three groups. At two years of age, no significant differences in anthropometric data were observed. Our retrospective study did not reveal any apparent advantages or disadvantages of high-dose initial HC therapy for 21OHD, and a lower dose would be preferable for the initial 21OHD treatment.

Therapeutic needs from early childhood in four patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency harboring the P30L mutation on one allele

21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) is the most common type of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Phenotypically, 21-OHD can be divided into classical and non-classical (NC) forms. The genotype-phenotype correlation in 21-OHD is well established. The P30L mutation is usually associated with the NC form and common among Japanese patients with the NC form of 21-OHD. Herein, we report the clinical course of four patients with 21-OHD with the P30L mutation on one allele and loss-of-function variants on the other allele. Contrary to the findings of most previous studies, all patients were treated with hydrocortisone, and two required fludrocortisone therapy in early childhood. The management strategies for patients with 21-OHD, especially those with the P30L mutation on at least one allele, should be determined based on the clinical phenotype predicted by the CYP21A2 genotype and individual clinical symptoms and biochemical data.

Impact of Newborn Screening on Clinical Presentation of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Background and Objectives: The main reason for Newborn screening (NBS) for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is to prevent adrenal insufficiency that can lead to life-threatening conditions. On the other hand, screening programs are not always sensitive and effective enough to detect the disease. We aimed to evaluate impact of the national NBS on the clinical presentation of patients with CAH in Lithuania. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was performed on data of 88 patients with CAH from 1989 to 2020. Patients with confirmed CAH were divided into two groups: (1) 75 patients diagnosed before NBS: 52 cases with salt-wasting (SW), 21 with simple virilising (SV) and two with non-classical (NC) form; (2) 13 patients diagnosed with NBS: 12 cases with SW and 1 case with SV form. For the evaluation of NBS effectiveness, data of only male infants with salt-wasting CAH were analysed (n = 36, 25 unscreened and nine screened). Data on gestational age, birth weight, weight, symptoms, and laboratory tests (serum potassium and sodium levels) on the day of diagnosis, were analysed. Results: A total of 158,486 neonates were screened for CAH from 2015 to 2020 in Lithuania and CAH was confirmed in 13 patients (12 SW, one–SV form), no false negative cases were found. The sensitivity and specificity of NBS program for classical CAH forms were 100%; however, positive predictive value was only 4%. There were no significant differences between unscreened and screened male infant groups in terms of age at diagnosis, serum potassium, and serum sodium levels. Significant differences were found in weight at diagnosis between the groups (−1.67 ± 1.12 SDS versus 0.046 ± 1.01 SDS of unscreened and screened patients respectively, p = 0.001). Conclusions: The sensitivity and specificity of NBS for CAH program were 100%, but positive predictive value—only 4%. Weight loss was significantly lower and the weight SDS at diagnosis was significantly higher in the group of screened patients.

Presenting status of children with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia over two decades (1999-2018) in the absence of newborn screening in Sri Lanka

OBJECTIVES

Although new-born screening (NBS) for classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (C-CAH) has been available for decades, it is not widely implemented. We assessed the usefulness of introducing NBS for C-CAH, by analyzing presenting status of infants with C-CAH, over the past two decades, in Sri Lanka.

METHODS

This retrospective clinic-based study, from the largest tertiary children's hospital in Sri Lanka, analyzed initial presenting features of children with C-CAH from 1999 to 2018, in the absence of NBS for CAH, and included gender-based comparisons.

RESULTS

Features suggestive of impending adrenal-crisis were seen at initial presentation in >80 % (dehydration 70%, hyponatremia 65%, hyperkalemia 47%, vomiting 45%, hypoglycemia 22%, collapse 20%). Hyperpigmentation was seen in 78%, and consanguinity in 27%. There were fewer affected males (n = 12) compared to females (n = 28). Most girls (96%) had virilized genitalia, and 16 faced uncertainty about gender at birth. Median age at diagnosis was 20 days. More than 70% of children had SW-CAH (males = 9 and females = 20). There were fewer males with SW-CAH, and all had features of impending adrenal crisis, including severe hyponatremia in 50%, while 62% of girls also developed hyponatremia and 33% had hyperkalemia, prior to treatment. Treatment of SW-CAH was initiated at a median age of 30 days in boys, and 10 days of age in girls.

CONCLUSION

Many boys and girls with C-CAH from Sri Lanka presented late with impending adrenal crisis. Males were diagnosed later, and some possibly succumbed to C-CAH undiagnosed. These findings support including CAH in NBS programs to avert preventable childhood morbidity and mortality.

Two girls with a neonatal screening-negative 21-hydroxylase deficiency requiring treatment with hydrocortisone for virilization in late childhood

Herein, we report two girls with a neonatal screening (NS)-negative 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) requiring treatment with hydrocortisone due to virilization that developed in late childhood. Patient 1 was born prematurely on the 30th gestational week with normal external genitalia at birth. She passed the NS for 21-OHD. At 6 yr of age, she was referred to a hospital for evaluation of premature pubarche and clitoromegaly. Her diagnosis was central precocious puberty, and GnRH agonist was initiated. However, her symptoms did not improve despite treatment for over 4 years. She was then referred to our hospital where she was diagnosed with 21-OHD. Although she was started on hydrocortisone therapy, her adult height reached only 140 cm (−3.4 SD). Patient 2 was delivered at 37 weeks of gestation and passed the NS for 21-OHD. She was referred to a hospital because of premature pubarche at the age of 6 yr. She was diagnosed with 21-OHD, and hydrocortisone replacement therapy was initiated. Her present height at 13 yr of age is 148 cm (−1.3 SD). These cases reminded us that the possibility of 21-OHD should be considered when patients show premature pubarche or precocious puberty, even if they passed the NS test for 21-OHD.

Thirty-Year Lessons from the Newborn Screening for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) in Japan

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an inherited disorder caused by the absence or severely impaired activity of steroidogenic enzymes involved in cortisol biosynthesis. More than 90% of cases result from 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD). To prevent life-threatening adrenal crisis and to help perform appropriate sex assignments for affected female patients, newborn screening (NBS) programs for the classical form of CAH have been introduced in numerous countries. In Japan, the NBS for CAH was introduced in 1989, following the screenings for phenylketonuria and congenital hypothyroidism. In this review, we aim to summarize the experience of the past 30 years of the NBS for CAH in Japan, composed of four parts, 1: screening system in Japan, 2: the clinical outcomes for the patients with CAH, 3: various factors that would impact the NBS system, including timeline, false positive, and LC-MS/MS, 4: Database composition and improvement of the screening program.

The progression of salt-wasting and the body weight change during the first 2 weeks of life in classical 21-hydroxylase deficiency patients

BACKGROUND

One of the major purposes of newborn screening for 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) is preventing life-threatening adrenal crisis. However, the details of adrenal crisis in newborns are not precisely documented.

AIM

We aimed to clarify the clinical details of salt-wasting in newborn 21OHD patients.

METHODS

Based on the follow-up survey of the screening in Tokyo from 1989 to 2017, we retrospectively analysed the conditions of classical 21OHD neonates before the initiation of therapy.

RESULTS

One hundred classical 21OHD patients (55 male, 45 female) were analysed. The age at the first hospital visit was 0-20 days with sex difference (male: 9.0 ± 3.5 days; female: 6.2 ± 3.9 days). Thirty-seven (37.4%) patients exhibited severe salt-wasting (SSW), that is, Na < 130 mEq/L, K > 7 mEq/L or Na/K ratio < 20; except for one case, SSW developed in or after the second week of life. The serum concentrations of Na, K and Na/K were linearly correlated with age in days (R²  = .38, .25, and .34 respectively), suggesting that the risk of SSW increases linearly without a threshold. The age at which the regression lines reached Na < 130 mEq/L, K > 7 mEq/L and Na/K < 20 was approximately coincided, 11.1, 12.3 and 11.2 days, respectively. All SSW patients exhibited decreased body weight from birth in their second week of life.

CONCLUSION

Our data revealed that the risk of developing SSW increases during the second week of life without a threshold, and for preventing SSW, early intervention, ideally during first week of life, is desirable. An increased body weight in the second week of life indicates the absence of SSW.

Neonatal Screening and Genotype-Phenotype Correlation of 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency in the Chinese Population

Background: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders encompassing enzyme deficiencies in the adrenal steroidogenesis pathway that leads to impaired cortisol biosynthesis. 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) is the most common type of CAH. Severe cases of 21-OHD may result in death during the neonatal or infancy periods or sterility in later life. The early detection and timely treatment of 21-OHD are essential. This study aimed to summarize the clinical and genotype characteristics of 21-OHD patients detected by neonatal screening in Nanjing, Jiangsu province of China from 2000 to 2019.

Methods: Through a retrospective analysis of medical records, the clinical presentations, laboratory data, and molecular characteristics of 21-OHD patients detected by neonatal screening were evaluated.

Results: Of the 1,211,322 newborns who were screened, 62 cases were diagnosed with 21-OHD with an incidence of 1:19858. 58 patients were identified with the classical salt-wasting type (SW) 21-OHD and four patients were identified with simple virilizing type (SV) 21-OHD. Amongst these patients, 19 cases patients accepted genetic analysis, and another 40 cases were received from other cities in Eastern China. Eighteen different variants were found in the CYP21A2 gene. The most frequent variants was c.293-13A/C>G (36.29%). The most severe clinical manifestations were caused by large deletions or conversions of CYP21A2.

Conclusions: This study suggested that neonatal screening effectively leads to the early diagnosis of 21-OHD and reduces fatal adrenal crisis. Our data provide additional information on the occurrence and genotype-phenotype correlation of 21-OHD in the Chinese population which can be used to better inform treatment and improve prognosis.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a disease in which a gene mutation, which is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, causes a disorder in the synthesis of enzymes that create glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, or sex steroids from adrenal cholesterol. The incidence of the classic form of the disease ranges from 1:14000 to 1:18000 births. In the majority of cases, the disease is caused by mutations in the CYP21A2 gene that participates in the synthesis of the 21 Alpha-hydroxylase. Due to the lack of enzymes, the synthesis of cortisol is blocked with the accumulation of sex hormones. The classic form of the disease, or a simple virilizing form in which patients lose salt, is diagnosed in the infant period. In the non-classical or mild form of the disease, with late-onset, patients may be asymptomatic or with a milder form of virilization postnatally. The diagnosis is made based on 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels, in order to determine the deficiency of the 21 Alpha-hydroxylase enzyme. Common complications of the disease are adrenal crisis, hypoglycemia, infertility, and premature entry into puberty. Prenatal therapy is referred to as experimental treatment, while the basis of care is hydrocortisone replacement. In severe forms of the disease, patients are unable to produce enough cortisol in response to stress from gastroenteritis, surgery, trauma, or fever, requiring higher doses of hydrocortisone. In certain cases of genital uncertainty, surgical treatment is necessary. A multidisciplinary team of experts is necessary for adequate surveillance of the disease, in both childhood and adulthood.

Analysis of the Screening Results for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Involving 7.85 Million Newborns in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of congenital genetic diseases caused by defective steroidogenesis. Our study aims to systematically analyze the screening results for CAH in Chinese newborns.

METHODS

Studies were searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane library and some Chinese databases up to September, 2020. Meta-analysis was performed after quality assessment and data extraction.

RESULTS

After a review of 2 694 articles, we included 41 studies enrolling 7 853 756 newborns. In our study, we found that the incidence of CAH in China was 0.43‱ [95% confidence intervals(CI), (0.39‱, 0.48‱)], or 1/23 024 [95%CI, (1/25 757,1/20 815)]. 27 studies were included for analysis of the screening positive rate, which gave a rate of 0.66% [95%CI, (0.54%, 0.78%)]. As for the recall rate of positive cases, 17 studies were included and showed that the recall rate reached 86.17% [95%CI, (82.70%, 89.64%)]. Among the CAH patients, the ratio of males to females was 1.92:1 (119:62), and the ratio of salt wasting (SW) to simple virilization (SV) type was 3.25:1 (104:32). The average 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) value of CAH was 393.40 ± 291.85 nmol/L (Range 33-1 300 nmol/L); there was no significant difference between male and female patients (437.17 ± 297.27 nmol/L v.s. 322.25 ± 293.04 nmol/L, P=0.16), but a significant difference was found between SW and SV patients (483.29 ± 330.07 nmol/L v.s. 73.80 ± 7.83nmol/L, P=0.04).

CONCLUSION

We systematically analyzed the current situation of neonatal CAH screening in China, which will deepen our understanding for future CAH screening and early diagnosis.

Characteristics of In2G Variant in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency

Substantial research has been performed during the last decades on the clinical and genetic variability of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and its most common form, 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD). CAH is one of the most prevalent autosomal recessive diseases in humans, and it can be divided into classic-further subdivided into salt wasting (SW) and simple virilizing (SV)-and non-classic (NC) forms. Pathogenic variants of CYP21A2 gene, encoding the 21-hydroxylase enzyme, have been reported with variable prevalence in different populations. NM_000500.9:c.293-13C/A>G (In2G) variant represents the most common CYP21A2 gene changes related to the classic 21OHD form. However, the phenotype of In2G carriers is variable depending on the variant homozygous/heterozygous status and combination with other CYP21A2 pathogenic variants. In addition, identical genotypes, harboring the homozygous In2G variant, can present with variable phenotypes including the SW and SV or rarely NC form of the disease. Here, we analyze and present the clinical aspects, genotype/phenotype correlations, and other characteristics related to the CYP21A2 In2G variant.

Evaluation of a Two-Tier Screening Pathway for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in the New South Wales Newborn Screening Programme

In Australia, all newborns born in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australia Capital Territory (ACT) have been offered screening for rare congenital conditions through the NSW Newborn Screening Programme since 1964. Following the development of the Australian Newborn Bloodspot Screening National Policy Framework, screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was included in May 2018. As part of the assessment for addition of CAH, the national working group recommended a two-tier screening protocol determining 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) concentration by immunoassay followed by steroid profile. A total of 202,960 newborns were screened from the 1 May 2018 to the 30 April 2020. A threshold level of 17OHP from first tier immunoassay over 22 nmol/L and/or top 2% of the daily assay was further tested using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) steroid profiling for 17OHP (MS17OHP), androstenedione (A4) and cortisol. Samples with a ratio of (MS17OHP + A4)/cortisol > 2 and MS17OHP > 200 nmol/L were considered as presumptive positive. These newborns were referred for clinical review with a request for diagnostic testing and a confirmatory repeat dried blood spot (DBS). There were 10 newborns diagnosed with CAH, (9 newborns with salt wasting CAH). So far, no known false negatives have been notified, and the protocol has a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 99.9% and a positive predictive value of 71.4%. All confirmed cases commenced treatment by day 11, with none reported as having an adrenal crisis by the start of treatment.

Clinical outcomes and characteristics of P30L mutations in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency

Despite numerous studies in the field of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, some clinical variability of the presentation and discrepancies in the genotype/phenotype correlation are still unexplained. Some, but not all, discordant phenotypes caused by mutations with known enzyme activity have been explained by in silico structural changes in the 21-hydroxylase protein. The incidence of P30L mutation varies in different populations and is most frequently found in several Central and Southeast European countries as well as Mexico. Patients carrying P30L mutation present predominantly as non-classical CAH; however, simple virilizing forms are found in up to 50% of patients. Taking into consideration the residual 21-hydroxulase activity present with P30L mutation this is unexpected. Different mechanisms for increased androgenization in patients carrying P30L mutation have been proposed including influence of different residues, accompanying promotor allele variability or mutations, and individual androgene sensitivity. Early diagnosis of patients who would present with SV is important in order to improve outcome. Outcome studies of CAH have confirmed the uniqueness of this mutation such as difficulties in phenotype classification, different fertility, growth, and psychologic issues in comparison with other genotypes. Additional studies of P30L mutation are warranted.

Newborn Screening Protocols and Positive Predictive Value for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Vary across the United States

Newborn screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency is mandated throughout the US. Filter paper blood specimens are assayed for 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP). Prematurity, low birth weight, or critical illness cause falsely elevated results. The purpose of this report is to highlight differences in protocols among US state laboratories. We circulated a survey to state laboratory directors requesting qualitative and quantitative information about individual screening programs. Qualitative and quantitative information provided by 17 state programs were available for analysis. Disease prevalence ranged from 1:9941 to 1:28,661 live births. Four state laboratories mandated a second screen regardless of the initial screening results; most others did so for infants in intensive care units. All but one program utilized birthweight cut-points, but cutoffs varied widely: 17OHP values of 25 to 75 ng/mL for birthweights >2250-2500 g. The positive predictive values for normal birthweight infants varied from 0.7% to 50%, with the highest predictive values based in two of the states with a mandatory second screen. Data were unavailable for negative predictive values. These data imply differences in sensitivity and specificity in CAH screening in the US. Standardization of newborn screening protocols could improve the positive predictive value.

Clinical Impact and Cost Efficacy of Newborn Screening for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical impact of a congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) newborn screening program and incremental costs relative to benefits in screened vs unscreened infants. We hypothesized that screening would lead to clinical benefits and would be cost effective.

STUDY DESIGN

This was an ambispective cohort study at British Columbia Children's Hospital, including infants diagnosed with CAH from 1988-2008 and 2010-2018. Data were collected retrospectively (unscreened cohort) and prospectively (screened cohort). Outcome measures included hospitalization, medical transport, and resuscitation requirements. The economic analysis was performed using a public payer perspective.

RESULTS

Forty unscreened and 17 screened infants were diagnosed with CAH (47% vs 53% male). Median days to positive screen was 6 and age at diagnosis was 5 days (range, 0-30 days) and 6 days (range, 0-13 days) in unscreened and screened populations, respectively. In unscreened newborns, 55% required transport to a tertiary care hospital, 85% required hospitalization, and 35% required a fluid bolus compared with 29%, 29%, and 12% in screened infants, respectively. The cost of care was $33 770 per case in unscreened vs $17 726 in screened newborns. In the screened cohort, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was $290 in the best case analysis and $4786 in the base case analysis, per hospital day avoided.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with unscreened newborns, those screened for CAH were less likely to require medical transport and had shorter hospital stays. Screening led to a decrease in hospitalization costs. Although screening did not result in cost savings, it was assessed to be cost effective considering the clinical benefits and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio.

The adjustment of 17-hydroxyprogesterone cut-off values for congenital adrenal hyperplasia neonatal screening by GSP according to gestational age and age at sampling

Background Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) screening is facing great challenges because of a high false-positive rate and a low positive predictive value (PPV). We established and optimized 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) cut-off values for CAH neonatal screening using a genetic screening processor (GSP) according to gestational age (GA), birth weight (BW) and age at sampling. Methods The 17-OHP concentrations in dried blood spots were measured by time-resolved immunofluorescence and were grouped in terms of GA, BW and age at sampling for 48,592 newborns. The 99.5th percentile was used to set an initial cut-off value as a reference. Results Significant differences in 17-OHP concentrations were observed among newborns with different GAs and BWs. A significant difference was observed among different sampling age groups. Finally, we defined new multitier cut-off concentrations based on GA and age at sampling. Application of the new cut-off values resulted in a 30% reduction of the positive rate and a 40% increase of the PPV. Conclusions GA, BW and sampling age time influenced the concentrations of 17-OHP. The efficiency of congenital adrenal hyperplasia screening can be substantially improved by adjusting the multitier cut-off value according to GA and age at sampling.

Combined Gestational Age- and Birth Weight-Adjusted Cutoffs for Newborn Screening of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

CONTEXT

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was among the first genetic disorders included in newborn screening (NBS) programs worldwide, based on 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels in dried blood spots. However, the success of NBS for CAH is hampered by high false positive (FP) rates, especially in preterm and low-birthweight infants.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a set of cutoff values adjusting for both gestational age (GA) and birthweight (BW), with the aim of reducing FP rates.

DESIGN

This cross-sectional, population-based study summarizes 10 years of experience of the Israeli NBS program for diagnosis of CAH. Multitiered 17-OHP cutoff values were stratified according to both BW and GA.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1,378,132 newborns born between 2008 and 2017 were included in the NBS program.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight newborns were ultimately diagnosed with CAH; in 84 of these, CAH was detected upon NBS. The combined parameters-adjusted approach significantly reduced the recall FP rate (0.03%) and increased the positive predictive value (PPV) (16.5%). Sensitivity among those referred for immediate attention increased significantly (94%). There were four false negative cases (sensitivity, 95.4%), all ultimately diagnosed as simple-virilizing. Sensitivity and specificity were 95.4% and 99.9%, respectively, and the percentage of true-positive cases from all newborns referred for evaluation following a positive NBS result was 96%.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of cutoff values adjusted for both GA and BW significantly reduced FP rates (0.03%) and increased overall PPV (16.5%). Based on our 10 years of experience, we recommend the implementation of this two parameter-adjusted approach for NBS of classic CAH in NBS programs worldwide.

Evaluation of the Dutch neonatal screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

In 2002, a nationwide screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was introduced in the Netherlands. The aim of our study is to evaluate the validity of the neonatal screening for CAH and to assess how many newborns with salt-wasting (SW) CAH have already been clinically diagnosed before the screening result was known.

METHODS

Retrospective, descriptive study. The following data of patients with positive screening results since implementation of the screening programme were collected (1 January 2002 up until 31 December 2013): gestational age, sex, diagnosis, clinical presentation and contribution of screening to the diagnosis.

RESULTS

In the evaluated period, 2 235 931 newborns were screened. 479 children had an abnormal screening result, 133 children were diagnosed with CAH (114 SW, 14 simple virilizing (SV)), five non-classic CAH. During this period, no patients with SW CAH were missed by neonatal screening (sensitivity was 100%). After exclusion of 17 cases with missing information on diagnosis, specificity was 99.98% and positive predictive value was 24.7%. Most false positives (30%) were attributable to prematurity. Of patients with SW CAH, 68% (71/104) patients were detected by neonatal screening and 33 (33/104) were clinically diagnosed. Of girls with SW CAH, 38% (14/37) were detected by neonatal screening and 62% (23/37) were clinically diagnosed.

CONCLUSION

The Dutch neonatal screening has an excellent sensitivity and high specificity. Both boys and girls can benefit from neonatal screening.

A case of combined 21-hydroxylase deficiency and CHARGE syndrome featuring micropenis and cryptorchidism

Background

21‐hydroxylase deficiency (21‐OHD) is caused due to CYP21A2 gene variant. In males, the excess androgens produce varying degrees of penile enlargement and small testes. CHARGE syndrome (CS) has a broad spectrum of symptoms. In males, genital features such as micropenis and cryptorchidism are found in 48% of CS. There are no reports of patients with combined 21‐OHD and CS; therefore, it is unknown whether the external genitalia shows penile enlargement or micropenis with/without cryptorchidism.

Case

A boy, born at 37 weeks and 5 days of gestational age with no consanguineous marriage, was admitted to our hospital due to congenital cleft lip, cleft palate, micropenis, cryptorchidism, and a ventricular septal defect. He had severe hyponatremia and hyperkalemia on day 10. He was diagnosed to have 21‐OHD and CS. His external genitalia demonstrated both cryptorchidism and micropenis, but not penile enlargement.

Methods

DNA was extracted from peripheral leukocytes using standard procedures. Sanger sequence was performed in CYP21A2. Exome sequence was performed, and then, Sanger sequence was performed around variant in CHD7.

Results

Genetic screening for CYP21A2 gene was performed and compound heterozygous variants of c.293‐13A/C>G (IVS2‐13A/C>G) and c.518T>A (p.I172N) were detected in chromosome 6p21.3. His mother had been heterozygous variant of c.293‐13A/C>G, and his father had been heterozygous variant of c.518T>A. Simultaneously, a de novo splicing acceptor alteration in c.7165–4 A>G, in chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein‐7 (CHD7), located in chromosome 8q12 was detected, and the patient was diagnosed with 21‐OHD and CS.

Conclusion

Although these two disorders exhibit different modes of inheritance and their co‐morbidity is extremely rare, we encountered one male patient who suffered from both 21‐OHD and CS.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to Steroid 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

Objective

To update the congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency clinical practice guideline published by the Endocrine Society in 2010.

Conclusions

The writing committee presents updated best practice guidelines for the clinical management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia based on published evidence and expert opinion with added considerations for patient safety, quality of life, cost, and utilization.

Steroidogenesis: Unanswered Questions

Until the mid-1980s studies of steroidogenesis largely depended on identifying steroid structures and measuring steroid concentrations in body fluids. The molecular biology revolution radically revolutionized studies of steroidogenesis with the cloning of known steroidogenic enzymes, by identifying novel factors, and delineating the genetic basis of known and newly discovered diseases. Unfortunately, this dramatic success has led many young research-oriented endocrinologists to regard steroidogenesis as a 'solved area'. However, many important and exciting questions remain, especially concerning the mechanisms of cholesterol delivery to the steroidogenic machinery, the biochemistry of androgen synthesis, the regulation and biological role of adrenarche, fetal adrenal development and involution, the roles of steroids made in 'extraglandular' cells, and the search for genetic disorders. This review outlines some of these questions, but this list is necessarily incomplete.

Clitoral size in term newborns in Kumasi, Ghana

Background

Data on normative clitoral sizes in newborns is relatively sparse and racial/ethnic differences have also been reported. This study was performed to establish norms for clitoral size in term Ghanaian female newborns.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of all apparently well full-term newborns of postnatal age < 48 h and birth weight between 2.5 and 4.0 kg delivered at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital between May and September, 2014. Anthropometric and genital parameters were documented for study subjects as well as parental socio-demographic indices.

Results

In 612 newborn females studied, the mean (±SD) clitoral length (MCL) and the mean (±SD) clitoral width (MCW) were 4.13 ± 1.6 mm and 4.21 ± 1.1 mm, respectively. MCL was inversely related to birth weight (r = −0.62; p < 0.001) while MCW was inversely related to both gestational age (r = −0.1; p = 0.02) and birth weight (r = −0.54; p < 0.001). Babies with a clitoris that was completely covered by the labia majora had relatively lower clitoral sizes (p < 0.001) than those who had a partially covered or prominent clitoris. Neither MCL nor MCW differed significantly by birth length or maternal tribe.

Conclusions

Clitoral size varies with birth weight and gestational age. Babies with a completely covered clitoris are unlikely to warrant detailed clitoral measurements for clitoromegaly.

Neonatal screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia in Southern Brazil: a population based study with 108,409 infants

Background

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an autosomal recessive disorder associated with inborn errors of steroid metabolism. 21-hydroxylase enzyme deficiency occurs in 90 to 95% of all cases of CAH, with accumulation of 17 hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP). Early diagnosis of CAH based on newborn screening is possible before the development of symptoms and allows proper treatment, correct sex assignment, and reduced mortality rates. This study describes the results obtained in the first year of a public CAH screening program in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Methods

We reviewed the screening database in search of babies with suspected CAH, that is, altered birth-weight adjusted 17-OHP values at screening. The following data were analyzed for this population: screening 17-OHP values, retest 17-OHP values, serum 17-OHP values for those with confirmed CAH on retest, maternal and newborn data, and family history of CAH. For the screening program, 17-OHP levels are determined on dried blood spots obtained in filter paper with GSP solid phase time-resolved immunofluorescence.

Results

Of 108,409 newborns screened, eight were diagnosed with CAH (four males, four females). The incidence of CAH in the state was 1:13,551. Six cases were identified as classic salt-wasting CAH and two were cases of virilizing CAH. The positive predictive value (PPV) of the initial screening (before diagnostic confirmation) was 1.6%. The overall rate of false positive results was 0.47%. The number of false positive results was higher among newborns with birth weight < 2000 g.

Conclusion

The present results support the need for CAH screening by the public health care system in the state, and show that the strategy adopted is adequate. PPV and false positive results were similar to those reported for other states of Brazil with similar ethnic backgrounds.

Lower body weight and BMI at birth were associated with early adiposity rebound in 21-hydroxylase deficiency patients

21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) is the most common type of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. In addition to the clinical problems caused by adrenal insufficiency and androgen excess, a risk for obesity and metabolic syndrome during young adulthood is a major ramification of the disease. Although glucocorticoid therapy is very likely to be one of the contributory factors, the precise causes of the metabolic status of adult 21-OHD patients remain to be clarified. Previously we reported that 21-OHD patients developed early onset AR, a condition which might create a risk for obesity and metabolic syndrome in adulthood. In order to elucidate the association between the onset of AR and factors during the fetal period to early infancy, we conducted a retrospective longitudinal analysis of 29 21-OHD patients (male: 14 cases, female: 15 cases, salt wasting type: 16, simple virilizing type: 13), who were identified by newborn screening and followed up at least until the age 10 years. Body size at birth, lower body weight, and lower BMI were found to precipitate the timing of AR. On the other hand, no significant association was observed between the timing of AR and sex, gestational age, treatment regimen (including cumulative dose of HDC), and disease severity (the type of the disease, the value of DHEA-S and 17-OHP). There are two points to consider: first, in 21-OHD patients treated with glucocorticoid substitution therapy, the risk for early AR cannot be reduced by adjusting the dose of glucocorticoid; second, fetal factors might affect the metabolic status of 21-OHD patients.