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Cimbalo C, Tosco A, Terlizzi V, Sepe A, Castaldo A, Salvadori L, Raia V. Elevated sweat chloride test: is it always cystic fibrosis? Ital J Pediatr 2021; 47:112. [PMID: 33990208 PMCID: PMC8120719 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-021-01060-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sweat chloride test (ST) is the gold standard for cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosis in symptomatic patients, within the newborn screening and in the follow-up of CF patients during molecular therapies. However, false positives have been reported in patients with different diseases. We describe and discuss 4 cases due to different clinical conditions in which we recorded false positive ST, and the test remained altered for a period of varying length. CASES PRESENTATION Case 1: Eight months old female child suffering from constipation, recurrent vomiting and failure to thrive, family history of recurrent pancreatitis without mutations in the PRSS1 and SPINK1 genes. Both ST and fecal elastase were altered although no CFTR gene mutations were found. Due to rapid clinical deterioration, celiac disease was suspected and diagnosed by laboratory tests and intestinal biopsy. After 2 weeks of gluten-free diet ST and fecal elastase normalized. Case 2: 14 months old male suffering from bilateral renal dysplasia, episodes of metabolic alkalosis, recurrent respiratory infections and recurrent vomiting. The child had more ST positives, but no CFTR mutations were found. During follow-up, he developed sensorineural hearing loss and an atrial septic defect was found. Finally, a diagnosis of Klinefelter was made, but the ST normalized several years later. Case 3 and 4: Two boys with stubborn constipation and fecal occlusion treated with Poly Ethylene Glycol (PEG) with salts showed pathological ST. The test returned normal a few days after stopping treatment. CONCLUSIONS We hypotesized the possible causes of ST alteration in these conditions: in celiac disease it could be due to a transient dysregulation of the aquaporins, rapidly reversed by the diet; in Klinefelter, it may be due to stable pubertal hypoandrogenism; while, the PEG formulation itself contains salts that can temporarily alter ST.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cimbalo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - A Tosco
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - V Terlizzi
- Department of Paediatric Medicine, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Anna Meyer Children's University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - A Sepe
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - A Castaldo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - L Salvadori
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - V Raia
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Castaldo A, Cimbalo C, Castaldo RJ, D’Antonio M, Scorza M, Salvadori L, Sepe A, Raia V, Tosco A. Cystic Fibrosis-Screening Positive Inconclusive Diagnosis: Newborn Screening and Long-Term Follow-Up Permits to Early Identify Patients with CFTR-Related Disorders. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10080570. [PMID: 32784480 PMCID: PMC7460402 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10080570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Newborn screening (NBS) early-identifies cystic fibrosis (CF), but in CF-screening positive inconclusive diagnosis (CF-SPID) the results of immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT), molecular analysis and sweat test (ST) are discordant. A percentage of CF-SPID evolves to CF, but data on long-term monitoring are lacking. We describe the follow-up of all CF and CF-SPID identified between 2008 and 2019. Methods: NBS was performed by IRT followed by molecular analysis and ST between 2008 and 2014; double IRT followed by molecular analysis and ST after 2014. Results: NBS revealed 47 CF and 99 CF-SPID newborn, a ratio 1:2.1—the highest reported so far. This depends on the identification by gene sequencing of the second variant with undefined effect in 40 CF-SPID that otherwise would have been defined as carriers. Clinical complications and pulmonary infections occurred more frequently among CF patients than among CF-SPID. Two CF-SPID cases evolved to CF (at two years), while eight evolved to CFTR-related disorders (CFTR-RD), between one and eight years, with bronchiectasis (two), recurrent pneumonia (four, two with sinonasal complications), recurrent pancreatitis (two). No clinical, biochemical or imaging data predicted the evolution. Conclusion: Gene sequencing within the NBS reveals a higher number of CF-SPID and we first describe an approach to early identify CFTR-RD, with relevant impact on their outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Castaldo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3480360653
| | - Chiara Cimbalo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Raimondo J. Castaldo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Marcella D’Antonio
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnology, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy; (M.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Manuela Scorza
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnology, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy; (M.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Laura Salvadori
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Angela Sepe
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Valeria Raia
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Antonella Tosco
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (R.J.C.); (L.S.); (A.S.); (V.R.); (A.T.)
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Terlizzi V, Castaldo G, Salvatore D, Lucarelli M, Raia V, Angioni A, Carnovale V, Cirilli N, Casciaro R, Colombo C, Di Lullo AM, Elce A, Iacotucci P, Comegna M, Scorza M, Lucidi V, Perfetti A, Cimino R, Quattrucci S, Seia M, Sofia VM, Zarrilli F, Amato F. Genotype-phenotype correlation and functional studies in patients with cystic fibrosis bearing CFTR complex alleles. J Med Genet 2016; 54:224-235. [PMID: 27738188 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2016-103985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of complex alleles in cystic fibrosis (CF) is poorly defined for the lack of functional studies. OBJECTIVES To describe the genotype-phenotype correlation and the results of either in vitro and ex vivo studies performed on nasal epithelial cells (NEC) in a cohort of patients with CF carrying cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) complex alleles. METHODS We studied 70 homozygous, compound heterozygous or heterozygous for CFTR mutations: p.[Arg74Trp;Val201Met;Asp1270Asn], n=8; p.[Ile148Thr;Ile1023_Val1024del], n=5; p.[Arg117Leu;Leu997Phe], n=6; c.[1210-34TG[12];1210-12T[5];2930C>T], n=3; p.[Arg74Trp;Asp1270Asn], n=4; p.Asp1270Asn, n=2; p.Ile148Thr, n=6; p.Leu997Phe, n=36. In 39 patients, we analysed the CFTR gating activity on NEC in comparison with patients with CF (n=8) and carriers (n=4). Finally, we analysed in vitro the p.[Arg74Trp;Val201Met;Asp1270Asn] complex allele. RESULTS The p.[Ile148Thr;Ile1023_Val1024del] caused severe CF in five compound heterozygous with a class I-II mutation. Their CFTR activity on NEC was comparable with patients with two class I-II mutations (mean 7.3% vs 6.9%). The p.[Arg74Trp;Asp1270Asn] and the p.Asp1270Asn have scarce functional effects, while p.[Arg74Trp;Val201Met;Asp1270Asn] caused mild CF in four of five subjects carrying a class I-II mutation in trans, or CFTR-related disorders (CFTR-RD) in three having in trans a class IV-V mutation. The p.[Arg74Trp;Val201Met;Asp1270Asn] causes significantly (p<0.001) higher CFTR activity compared with compound heterozygous for class I-II mutations. Furthermore, five of six compounds heterozygous with the p.[Arg117Leu;Leu997Phe] had mild CF, whereas the p.Leu997Phe, in trans with a class I-II CFTR mutation, caused CFTR-RD or a healthy status (CFTR activity: 21.3-36.9%). Finally, compounds heterozygous for the c.[1210-34TG[12];1210-12T[5];2930C>T] and a class I-II mutation had mild CF or CFTR-RD (gating activity: 18.5-19.0%). CONCLUSIONS The effect of complex alleles partially depends on the mutation in trans. Although larger studies are necessary, the CFTR activity on NEC is a rapid contributory tool to classify patients with CFTR dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Terlizzi
- Dipartimento di Pediatria, Centro Regionale Toscano per la Fibrosi Cistica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Meyer, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castaldo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Marco Lucarelli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Cellulari ed Ematologia, Istituto Pasteur Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università e Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Raia
- Centro Regionale Fibrosi Cistica, Sezione Pediatrica, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Adriano Angioni
- Laboratorio di Genetica Medica, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Carnovale
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Centro Regionale Fibrosi Cistica, Sezione Adulti, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Natalia Cirilli
- Dipartimento Materno-Infantile, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Centro Regionale Fibrosi Cistica, Ancona, Italy
| | - Rosaria Casciaro
- Dipartimento di Pediatria, Centro Regionale Fibrosi Cistica, IRCCS G. Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - Carla Colombo
- Centro Regionale Fibrosi Cistica, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Miriam Di Lullo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Sezione di ORL, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Paola Iacotucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Centro Regionale Fibrosi Cistica, Sezione Adulti, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marika Comegna
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Manuela Scorza
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzina Lucidi
- Unità di Fibrosi Cistica, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambin Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Cimino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Neurologiche, Riproduttive ed Odontostomatologiche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Quattrucci
- Centro Fibrosi Cistica, Sapienza Università e Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Seia
- Laboratorio Genetica Medica, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Federica Zarrilli
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze e Territorio, Università del Molise, Isernia, Italy
| | - Felice Amato
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Tomaiuolo R, Nardiello P, Martinelli P, Sacchetti L, Salvatore F, Castaldo G. Prenatal diagnosis of cystic fibrosis: an experience of 181 cases. Clin Chem Lab Med 2014; 51:2227-32. [PMID: 23612672 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2013-0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The demand for prenatal diagnosis (PD) of cystic fibrosis (CF) is increasing. METHODS We performed pre-test multidisciplinary counselling for 192 couples at CF reproductive risk. In 11/192 (5.7%) cases PD was not performed mainly because counselling revealed a reproductive risk for atypical (mild) CF, while 181 PDs were performed in couples revealed at high risk for CF mainly because they already had a CF child (148/181, 81.8%) or had been identified through cascade screening (28/181, 15.5%). RESULTS In 167/181 (92.3%) cases (including two dichorionic twin pregnancies), PD was performed on chorionic villi, and in 14 on amniocyte DNA. Only 1/181 PD was unsuccessful. In all other cases, single tandem repeat analysis excluded maternal contamination, and PD was made within 7 days of sampling. In total 116/180 (64.4%) PDs were made with dot-blot analysis; 40 (22.2%) required gene sequencing; in 4/180 cases we tested the gene for large rearrangements; in 23/180 (12.8%) cases linkage analysis was necessary because parental mutation(s) were unknown. Forty-two out of 180 (23.3%) PDs revealed an affected foetus. All couples but one interrupted pregnancy. The first twin PD revealed the absence (1 foetus) and the presence of one mutation (the other foetus); the second twin PD revealed one parental mutation (1 foetus) and both parental mutations (the other foetus); the couple planned selective interruption. CONCLUSIONS PD for CF should be performed in reference laboratories equipped for gene scanning and linkage analysis, with a multidisciplinary staff able to offer counselling to couples during all phases of PD.
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5
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Castaldo G, Scorza M, Elce A, Giordano S, Liguori R, Guerra G. Omics in laboratory medicine. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2013; 26 Suppl 2:13-6. [DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2013.829694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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6
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Mutation spectrum of phenylketonuria in Syrian population: Genotype–phenotype correlation. Gene 2013; 528:241-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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7
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Kalman LV, Lubin IM, Barker S, du Sart D, Elles R, Grody WW, Pazzagli M, Richards S, Schrijver I, Zehnbauer B. Current landscape and new paradigms of proficiency testing and external quality assessment for molecular genetics. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2013; 137:983-8. [PMID: 23808472 PMCID: PMC4684176 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2012-0311-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Participation in proficiency testing (PT) or external quality assessment (EQA) programs allows the assessment and comparison of test performance among different clinical laboratories and technologies. In addition to the approximately 2300 tests for individual genetic disorders, recent advances in technology have enabled the development of clinical tests that quickly and economically analyze the entire human genome. New PT/EQA approaches are needed to ensure the continued quality of these complex tests. OBJECTIVES To review the availability and scope of PT/EQA for molecular genetic testing for inherited conditions in Europe, Australasia, and the United States; to evaluate the successes and demonstrated value of available PT/EQA programs; and to examine the challenges to the provision of comprehensive PT/EQA posed by new laboratory practices and methodologies. DATA SOURCES The available literature on this topic was reviewed and supplemented with personal experiences of several PT/EQA providers. CONCLUSIONS Proficiency testing/EQA schemes are available for common genetic disorders tested in many clinical laboratories but are not available for most genetic tests offered by only one or a few laboratories. Provision of broad, method-based PT schemes, such as DNA sequencing, would allow assessment of many tests for which formal PT is not currently available. Participation in PT/EQA improves the quality of testing by identifying inaccuracies that laboratories can trace to errors in their testing processes. Areas of research and development to ensure that PT/EQA programs can meet the needs of new and evolving genetic tests and technologies are identified and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa V Kalman
- Laboratory Research and Evaluation Branch, Division of Laboratory Science and Standards, Office of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA.
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8
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The Italian National External quality assessment program in molecular genetic testing: results of the VII round (2010-2011). BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:739010. [PMID: 23484150 PMCID: PMC3581119 DOI: 10.1155/2013/739010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2012] [Revised: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Since 2001 the Istituto Superiore di Sanità established a quality assurance programme for molecular genetic testing that covers four pathologies: Cystic Fibrosis (CF), Beta Thalassemia (BT), Fragile X Syndrome (FX), and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC). Since 2009 this activity is an institutional activity and participation is open to both public and private laboratories. Seven rounds have been performed until now and the eighth is in progress. Laboratories receive 4 DNA samples with mock clinical indications. They analyze the samples using their routine procedures. A panel of assessors review the raw data and the reports; all data are managed through a web utility. In 2010 the number of participants was 43, 17, 15, 5 for CF, BT, FX, APC schemes respectively. Genotyping results were correct in 96%, 98.5%, 100%, and 100% of CF, BT, FX, and APC samples, respectively. Interpretation was correct in 74%, 91%, 88%, and 60% of CF, BT, FX, and APC reports, respectively; however in most of them it was not complete but a referral to genetic counseling was given. Reports were satisfactory in more than 60% of samples in all schemes. This work presents the 2010 results in detail comparing our data with those from other European schemes.
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Maruotti GM, Frisso G, Calcagno G, Fortunato G, Castaldo G, Martinelli P, Sacchetti L, Salvatore F. Prenatal diagnosis of inherited diseases: 20 years’ experience of an Italian Regional Reference Centre. Clin Chem Lab Med 2013; 51:2211-7. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2013-0194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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10
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Weng B, Li X. An external quality assessment scheme for prenatal detection of rare chromosomal abnormalities. Clin Chim Acta 2012; 413:1721-4. [PMID: 22789962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2012.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/03/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To improve the accuracy of prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis by establishing an external quality assessment (EQA) scheme for rare, or subtle, structural chromosomal abnormalities. METHOD Typical metaphase images of rare chromosomal abnormalities along with an anonymized clinical history were sent to 35 prenatal diagnosis laboratories. The laboratories were required to provide independent reports using current nomenclature. Evaluation of reports was based on established criteria for quality assessment of karyotype analysis. RESULTS Totally 6 kinds of typical rare chromosomal abnormalities were collected. 35 laboratories were enrolled with a response rate of 94.29%. The overall analytical accuracy is 82.20%. This is comparable with our former EQA scheme using established lymphocyte cell lines with rare abnormal chromosome karyotypes (χ²=0.065, P=0.799). CONCLUSION Introduction of efficient EQA for prenatal genetic diagnosis is currently imperative, due to the limited performances of karyotype analysis of rare chromosomal abnormalities. Metaphase images could be used as a simple and effective material for EQA and to improve the quality of prenatal genetic diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binghuan Weng
- Women's Reproductive Health Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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11
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Guarino A, Lo Vecchio A, Berni Canani R. Chronic diarrhoea in children. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2012; 26:649-61. [PMID: 23384809 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2012.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Revised: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Chronic diarrhoea in children shows an age related spectrum. In infants and young children a major role is related to persistent intestinal infections, intolerance to specific nutrients such as cow's milk protein, and toddler's diarrhoea. In older children and adolescents, inflammatory bowel diseases are strongly increasing and nonspecific diarrhoea is also frequent. Coeliac disease is a major cause of diarrhoea throughout childhood. In neonates, congenital diarrhoea is a rare but severe syndrome that includes several highly complex diseases. In children, diagnosis should be based on noninvasive techniques. Endoscopy should be decided based on clinical criteria, but also driven by noninvasive tests to assess the digestive absorptive functions and intestinal inflammation. A stepwise approach may reduce the need of endoscopy, also in the light of its relatively limited diagnostic yield compared to adult patients. Treatment of chronic diarrhoea in children is also substantially different from what is generally done in adults and includes a major role for nutritional interventions. Therefore chronic diarrhoea in children is a complex age-specific disorder that requires an age-specific management that is in many aspects distinct from that in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Guarino
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples, Italy.
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12
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Hamzehloei T, Hosseini SA, Vakili R, Mojarad M. Mutation spectrum of the PAH gene in the PKU patients from Khorasan Razavi province of Iran. Gene 2012; 506:230-2. [PMID: 22763404 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characterization of the molecular basis of phenylketonuria (PKU) in North-east of Iran has been accomplished through the analysis of 62 unrelated chromosomes from 31 Iranian PKU patients. METHODS Phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene mutations have been analyzed by direct DNA sequencing exons 6, 7, 10 and 11. RESULTS A mutation detection rate of 74% was achieved. Eleven different mutations were found, with the most frequent mutation, IVS10-11G>A, accounting for 19% of Khorasan-Razavi PKU alleles. Ten mutations (R176X, E280K, IVS11+1G>C, S231P, Q383X, R243X, I224T, E390G, R252W and P281L) represent the rest PKU chromosomes. One novel mutation, Q383X in the homozygote form was identified which is located in the catalytic domain (residues143-410). CONCLUSION With this high detection rate of mutations in North-east of Iran, new strategy for carrier testing could be DNA sequencing of these four exons. The other exons and boundaries will be studied only when either one or no mutations are detected in the initial screen.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Hamzehloei
- Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Human Genetics Department, Mashhad-Iran.
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Congenital diarrheal disorders: an updated diagnostic approach. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:4168-4185. [PMID: 22605972 PMCID: PMC3344208 DOI: 10.3390/ijms13044168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2012] [Revised: 03/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital diarrheal disorders (CDDs) are a group of inherited enteropathies with a typical onset early in the life. Infants with these disorders have frequently chronic diarrhea of sufficient severity to require parenteral nutrition. For most CDDs the disease-gene is known and molecular analysis may contribute to an unequivocal diagnosis. We review CDDs on the basis of the genetic defect, focusing on the significant contribution of molecular analysis in the complex, multistep diagnostic work-up.
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Censi F, Falbo V, Floridia G, Salvatore M, Tosto F, De Rosa M, Resta N, Izzo P, Guanti G, Taruscio D. The Italian external quality control program for familial adenomatous polyposis of the colon: five years of experience. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2010; 14:175-81. [PMID: 20136519 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2009.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial adenomatous polyposis is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disease (incidence, 1/8000). More than 90% of families affected by familial adenomatous polyposis have a mutation in the tumor suppressor gene adenomatous polyposis coli (APC). Mutations in this gene are characterized by 100% penetrance, although there is a variation in phenotypic expression of the disease. According to a 2004 survey of the Italian Human Genetic Society, about 264 APC gene molecular genetic tests were performed by Italian laboratories per year. The Italian External Quality Assessment (IEQA), financially supported by the Ministry of Health and coordinated by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità, was started in 2000 to improve the quality of molecular genetic tests in Italy. In the frame of the IEQA, about 50% of public laboratories performing APC gene tests have been monitored. The number of responding public laboratories during the 5 years was 6, 7, 7, 7, and 5 from 2001 to 2006, respectively; on average, 96.3% of samples completely analyzed were correctly genotyped. Methods used by laboratories to detect mutation were direct sequencing, single-strand conformation polymorphism, protein truncation test, and denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography. Written reports were not homogeneous among laboratories, although a new form of written report was proposed to laboratories in 2004. It will be interesting to monitor the effects of the reporting model and the output of this educational action in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Censi
- National Centre for Rare Diseases-Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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15
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Tosto F, Salvatore M, Falbo V, Floridia G, Censi F, Bombieri C, Rosatelli MC, Taruscio D. The Italian Scheme of External Quality Assessment for β-Thalassemia: Genotyping and Reporting Results and Testing Strategies in a 5-Year Survey. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2009; 13:31-6. [DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2008.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Tosto
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvatore
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Falbo
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Floridia
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Censi
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Bombieri
- Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Mother and Child and Biology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Domenica Taruscio
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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16
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Falbo V, Floridia G, Tosto F, Censi F, Salvatore M, Ravani A, Ferlini A, Melis MA, Grasso M, Bricarelli FD, Taruscio D. The Italian External Quality Assessment scheme for fragile x syndrome: the results of a 5-year survey. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 12:279-88. [PMID: 18452397 DOI: 10.1089/gte.2007.0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The Italian External Quality Assessment scheme for fragile X syndrome started in 2001 as an activity funded by the National Health System and coordinated by the National Institute of Public Health. The aim of this work is to present the data of 5 years (2001--2004 and 2006) of survey. The External Quality Assessment scheme was designed to cover the following points: (a) genotyping and (b) interpretation and reporting of results. Overall, the scheme covered about 65% of all Italian public laboratories. The average reporting of results was 91.6%, with an overall success rate of 76%. The rate of diagnostic errors observed was on average 5%. Inaccuracy in sizing of CGG repeats of normal and premutated alleles was reported. During the survey the proportion of laboratories using a Southern blotting, polymerase chain reaction, and ABI sizing kit in combination rose from 36.8% to 70.6%. The reports from laboratories showed incompleteness and considerable variations in expected outcomes. For this reason, in 2004 a model for written reports was introduced. In conclusion, these data underscore the need to participate in External Quality Assessment schemes as an educational resource to ensure quality in molecular genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Falbo
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Rome, Italy.
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17
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Orlando C, Verderio P, Maatman R, Danneberg J, Ramsden S, Neumaier M, Taruscio D, Falbo V, Jansen R, Casini-Raggi C, Malentacchi F, Marubini E, Pizzamiglio S, Vernelen K, Libeer JC, Palicka V, Pazzagli M. EQUAL-qual: a European program for external quality assessment of genomic DNA extraction and PCR amplification. Clin Chem 2007; 53:1349-57. [PMID: 17582151 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2006.084004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the rapid transition into routine clinical practice of molecular techniques based on PCR, external quality assessment (EQA) is still not widely available. The European Union and European Communities Confederation of Clinical Chemistry have supported the EQUAL project as a series of 3 different EQA programs for the assessment of molecular methods independently from analytes. We present the results from the EQUAL-qual program designed to evaluate the analytical aspects of DNA analysis by means of a conventional qualitative PCR experiment. METHODS The EQUAL-qual program provided DNA, blood samples, and primer sets to participant laboratories to assess DNA extraction and PCR amplification. We have developed statistical procedures to identify laboratories performing poorly in DNA extraction (quality and quantity), PCR efficiency, and data interpretation after electrophoresis. RESULTS An application to participate was obtained from 213 laboratories (from 25 countries), and 175 (82%) of laboratories submitted results for assessment. Questionable results in terms of quality and/or quantity of DNA derived from blood extractions were returned by 27% of laboratories (46 of 166). PCR efficiency showed high variability, with 3% of laboratories (5 of 163) showing a consistently low rate of amplification and 10% (18 of 175) not reporting the expected number of bands of the amplified targets. CONCLUSIONS The results showed considerable variability in all phases of the experiment. The approach confirms the validity of EQA as a method for evaluating analytical aspects of PCR-based tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Orlando
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Ramsden SC, Deans Z, Robinson DO, Mountford R, Sistermans EA, Grody WW, McQuaid S, Patton SJ, Stenhouse SAR. Monitoring standards for molecular genetic testing in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Ireland. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 10:147-56. [PMID: 17020464 DOI: 10.1089/gte.2006.10.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Molecular genetic techniques have entered many areas of clinical practice. Public expectations from this technology are understandably high. To maintain confidence in this technology, laboratories must implement the highest standards of quality assurance (QA). External quality assessment (EQA) is recognized as an essential component of QA. The United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service (UKNEQAS) for Molecular Genetics, first set up in 1991, is currently the longest provider of EQA to molecular genetic testing laboratories in the UK, The Netherlands, and Ireland. Errors in the scheme are sporadic events. However, evidence from this and other EQA schemes suggests that a residual error rate persists, which should be taken into account in clinical practice. This EQA scheme has evolved from the respective scientific bodies of the constituent countries and retains a strong emphasis on collective peer review. It is essential that the steps taken to ensure quality in this rapidly expanding field are clear and transparent to participants and public alike. We describe the procedures developed and the governance imposed to monitor and improve analytical and reporting standards in participant laboratories and we compare our experiences with those of equivalent EQA services in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon C Ramsden
- National Genetics Reference Laboratory (Manchester), St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK.
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19
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Salvatore M, Falbo V, Floridia G, Censi F, Tosto F, Bombieri C, Castaldo G, Pignatti PF, Rosatelli MC, Taruscio D. The Italian External Quality Control Programme for cystic fibrosis molecular diagnosis: 4 years of activity. Clin Chem Lab Med 2007; 45:254-60. [PMID: 17311518 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2007.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Italian External Quality Control Programme for cystic fibrosis molecular diagnosis started in 2001; public laboratories distributed throughout Italy participated on a voluntary basis. METHODS The Italian Public Health Institute (Istituto Superiore di Sanità) sent six validated DNA samples to participating laboratories: technical and clinical information was provided for each sample. Laboratories were required to analyse all six samples. For each sample the laboratories had to provide the results (including raw data) and a report of molecular analysis within 2 months using current methods and nomenclature. Raw data and reports were evaluated by a Steering Committee and their comments were sent to each laboratory. RESULTS Genotyping results indicated a general good level of quality for all laboratories, i.e., approximately 1% of alleles were incorrectly assigned each year due to analytical (45%) and misinterpretation (45%) errors. During the first 2 years, more than 70% of laboratories did not test for some regional Italian mutations. Commercial kits for reverse dot-blot and oligonucleotide ligation assay PCR were used to detect mutations by 52.8% and 29.5%, respectively, of the participating laboratories. Reporting of results was still inadequate; in 2004 a model for the written report was introduced, but not all laboratories used it. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that few genotyping errors were made by laboratories and were principally due to misinterpretation and analytical reasons. However, reports are still inadequate and it will be interesting to evaluate the introduction of the reporting model in future years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Salvatore
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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20
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Daniele A, Cardillo G, Pennino C, Carbone MT, Scognamiglio D, Correra A, Pignero A, Castaldo G, Salvatore F. Molecular epidemiology of phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency in Southern Italy: a 96% detection rate with ten novel mutations. Ann Hum Genet 2006; 71:185-93. [PMID: 17096675 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-1809.2006.00328.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) comprises a group of autosomal recessive disorders mainly caused by phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene mutations. We investigated PAH mutations in 126 HPA patients from Southern Italy who were identified in a neonatal screening program. The promoter, coding and exon-flanking intronic sequences of the PAH gene were amplified and sequenced. Mutations were identified in 240/249 alleles (detection rate: 96.4%). We found 60 gene variants; the most frequent were p.R261Q (15.7% of alleles), p.A403V (11.6% of alleles) and c.1066-11G > A (8.8% of alleles). The remaining mutations were rare, and ten are novel. This mutation epidemiology differs from that reported for Northern Italy and other European countries. We also identified several discordant genotype/phenotype correlations. About two-thirds of all mild phenylketonuria patients showed at least one tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4)-responsive mutation, and are thus candidates for a customized therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Daniele
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Naples, Italy.
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21
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Ramsden SC, Daly S, Geilenkeuser WJ, Duncan G, Hermitte F, Marubini E, Neumaier M, Orlando C, Palicka V, Paradiso A, Pazzagli M, Pizzamiglio S, Verderio P. EQUAL-quant: An International External Quality Assessment Scheme for Real-Time PCR. Clin Chem 2006; 52:1584-91. [PMID: 16740649 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2005.066019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Quantitative gene expression analysis by real-time PCR is important in several diagnostic areas, such as the detection of minimum residual disease in leukemia and the prognostic assessment of cancer patients. To address quality assurance in this technically challenging area, the European Union (EU) has funded the EQUAL project to develop methodologic external quality assessment (EQA) relevant to diagnostic and research laboratories among the EU member states. We report here the results of the EQUAL-quant program, which assesses standards in the use of TaqMan™ probes, one of the most widely used assays in the implementation of real-time PCR.
Methods: The EQUAL-quant reagent set was developed to assess the technical execution of a standard TaqMan assay, including RNA extraction, reverse transcription, and real-time PCR quantification of target DNA copy number.
Results: The multidisciplinary EQA scheme included 137 participating laboratories from 29 countries. We demonstrated significant differences in performance among laboratories, with 20% of laboratories reporting at least one result lacking in precision and/or accuracy according to the statistical procedures described. No differences in performance were observed for the >10 different testing platforms used by the study participants.
Conclusions: This EQA scheme demonstrated both the requirement and demand for external assessment of technical standards in real-time PCR. The reagent design and the statistical tools developed within this project will provide a benchmark for defining acceptable working standards in this emerging technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon C Ramsden
- National Genetics Reference Laboratory (Manchester), St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK, and Institute of Medical Statistics and Biometry, University of Milan, Italy.
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