Transitions in endocrinology: treatment of Turner's syndrome during transition

Transition from pediatric to adult care in patients with Turner syndrome in Italy: a consensus statement by the TRAMITI project

PURPOSE

Transition from pediatric to adult care is associated with significant challenges in patients with Turner syndrome (TS). The objective of the TRansition Age Management In Turner syndrome in Italy (TRAMITI) project was to improve the care provided to patients with TS by harnessing the knowledge and expertise of various Italian centers through a Delphi-like consensus process.

METHODS

A panel of 15 physicians and 1 psychologist discussed 4 key domains: transition and referral, sexual and bone health and oncological risks, social and psychological aspects and systemic and metabolic disorders.

RESULTS

A total of 41 consensus statements were drafted. The transition from pediatric to adult care is a critical period for patients with TS, necessitating tailored approaches and early disclosure of the diagnosis to promote self-reliance and healthcare autonomy. Fertility preservation and bone health strategies are recommended to mitigate long-term complications, and psychiatric evaluations are recommended to address the increased prevalence of anxiety and depression. The consensus also addresses the heightened risk of metabolic, cardiovascular and autoimmune disorders in patients with TS; regular screenings and interventions are advised to manage these conditions effectively. In addition, cardiac abnormalities, including aortic dissections, require regular monitoring and early surgical intervention if certain criteria are met.

CONCLUSIONS

The TRAMITI consensus statement provides valuable insights and evidence-based recommendations to guide healthcare practitioners in delivering comprehensive and patient-centered care for patients with TS. By addressing the complex medical and psychosocial aspects of the condition, this consensus aims to enhance TS management and improve the overall well-being and long-term outcomes of these individuals.

Transition of Care of Pediatric Patients with Special Needs to Adult Care Settings: Children with Diabetes Mellitus and Other Endocrine Disorders

Childhood onset endocrine disorders need long-term medical, psychological and social management. Over time, many illnesses evolve, while others may witness onset of new complications. Thus, the components of the care change as the child grows into adolescence and then adulthood. The transition of children and adolescents with chronic endocrine disorders to adult care continues to be a major challenge. Pediatric and adult healthcare teams should together design a transitional care plan that is developmentally appropriate and responsive to the needs of young adults. The preparation for transition to adult care should begin early in adolescence and involve both the adolescent and his parents. A structured and planned transitional care bridges the gap between pediatric and adult care teams, promote ongoing engagement and build trust with the new healthcare teams. Combined pediatric-adult care transition model for endocrine conditions has yielded high adherence rates and patient satisfaction.

An interprofessional clinic for adults with Turner syndrome: the patient perspective

OBJECTIVES

This qualitative study assessed the value of a primary care-based interprofessional clinical team for adults with Turner syndrome (TS) utilizing patient perspectives.

METHODS

Ten patients within one institution's interprofessional adult TS clinic participated in one of two semi-structured focus groups. Content analysis was used to classify content provided by participants into themes and sub-themes using Dedoose software.

RESULTS

Participants found that their quality of care and life were both improved due to the presence of the interprofessional Adults with TS Clinic. Specifically, participants reported that the clinic helped address problems with finding knowledgeable providers and care gaps, made appointments more convenient and improved interprofessional communication. Participants also reported that the clinic helped them find a sense of community and increased personal confidence. Study participants suggested improvements to the clinic by expanding the scope of practice further, simplifying processes to schedule appointments, and potentially creating interprofessional clinics for other rare diseases as well.

CONCLUSION

Pursuing avenues to create interprofessional clinics for adults with rare diseases has value from the patient perspective. This value can translate to improved patient outcomes through improvements in patient knowledge of their diagnosis, adherence to evidence-based care and quality of life.

Recombinant growth hormone therapy in children with Turner Syndrome in Korea: a phase III Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Short stature is the most consistent characteristic feature of Turner syndrome (TS). To improve final heights of children with TS effectively, it is important to provide them with early and appropriate treatment using growth hormone (GH). The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of a new recombinant human GH, Growtropin®-II (DA-3002, Dong-A ST Co., Ltd) versus a comparator (Genotropin®, Pfizer Inc.) for Korean children with TS.

METHODS

This open-label, active-controlled, parallel-group, randomized controlled phase III trial was conducted at 11 hospitals in Korea. Eligible patients (n = 58) were randomized to two groups: 1) DA-3002 group (administrated with DA-3002 at 0.14 IU [0.0450-0.050 mg] /kg/day); and 2) comparator group (administrated with the comparator at 0.14 IU [0.0450-0.050 mg] /kg/day).

RESULTS

The change from baseline in annualized height velocity (HV) after a 52-week treatment period was 4.15 ± 0.30 cm/year in the DA-3002 group and 4.34 ± 0.29 cm/year in the comparator group. The lower bound of 95% two-sided confidence interval for group difference in the change of annualized HV (- 1.02) satisfied the non-inferiority margin (- 1.5). The change in height standard deviation score (HtSDS) at 52-week was 0.70 ± 0.23 for the DA-3002 group and 0.66 ± 0.39 for the comparator group, showing no significant (p = 0.685) difference between the two groups. The change of skeletal maturity defined as change in bone age/change in chronological age between the two groups was not significantly different (1.25 ± 0.58 for the DA-3002 group and 1.47 ± 0.45 for the comparator group, p = 0.134). Changes from baseline in serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) after 52 weeks of treatment did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.565 and p = 0.388, respectively) either. The occurrence of adverse events was not statistically different between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that the efficacy and safety of GH treatment with DA-3002 in children with TS are comparable with those of the comparator. It is expected to analysis the long-term effect of DA-3002 on the increase of final adult height in children with TS and possible late-onset complications in the future.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01813630 (19/03/2013).

European Medical Education Initiative on Noonan syndrome: A clinical practice survey assessing the diagnosis and clinical management of individuals with Noonan syndrome across Europe

INTRODUCTION

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in genes encoding components of the RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway. Patients with NS exhibit certain characteristic features, including cardiac defects, short stature, distinctive facial appearance, skeletal abnormalities, cognitive deficits, and predisposition to certain cancers. Here, a clinical practice survey was developed to learn more about differences in the diagnosis and management of this disease across Europe. The aim was to identify gaps in the knowledge and management of this rare disorder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The European Medical Education Initiative on NS, which comprised a group of 10 experts, developed a 60-question clinical practice survey to gather information from European physicians on the diagnosis and clinical management of patients with diseases in the NS phenotypic spectrum. Physicians from three specialities (clinical genetics, paediatric endocrinology, paediatric cardiology) were invited to complete the survey by several national and European societies. Differences in answers provided by respondents between specialities and countries were analysed using contingency tables and the Chi-Squared test for independence. The Friedman's test was used for related samples.

RESULTS

Data were analysed from 364 respondents from 20 European countries. Most respondents came from France (21%), Spain (18%), Germany (16%), Italy (15%), United Kingdom (8%) and the Czech Republic (6%). Respondents were distributed evenly across three specialities: clinical genetics (30%), paediatric endocrinology (40%) and paediatric cardiology (30%). Care practices were generally aligned across the countries participating in the survey. Delayed diagnosis did not emerge as a critical issue, but certain unmet needs were identified, including transition of young patients to adult medical services and awareness of family support groups.

CONCLUSION

Data collected from this survey provide a comprehensive summary of the diagnosis and clinical management practices for patients with NS across different European countries.

The current status of 492 adult women with Turner syndrome: a questionnaire survey by the Foundation for Growth Science

Current status and its background of Adult Turner Syndrome (TS) are not clarified well. Via a questionnaire survey of 492 adult women with TS, this study investigated the association between menstruation, Kaufmann therapy (menstrual induction therapy), social status (education, employment & marriage), complications, transition from pediatric to adult care, and sex chromosome karyotype using statistical methods. Spontaneous menarche occurred in 22.0% and more frequently among patients with the 45,X/46,XX karyotype. Over 60% of these subjects, menstruation did not persist regularly. Kauffmann therapy was performed in 69.4%; the most common formulation was a conjugated estrogen and progesterone combination. Marriage and higher education advancement rates were low in adults with TS, whereas their employment rate was similar to that of the age-matched general female population. Patients receiving Kauffmann therapy had higher complication rates, greater education length, and higher employment rates. The higher-education advancement rate was observed among patients with 45,X/46,X,Xi and 46,X,Xi karyotypes. Transition from pediatrician to adult specialist was not smooth, subjects were treated in pediatric departments (60.7%), gynecological department (21.4%), internal medicine departments (13.3%), and others. While reason is not clear, the largest number of TS patients are treated in general pediatrics and the percentage of receiving Kauffmann therapy and having complication were significantly lower than in pediatric and adult department of endocrinology (& metabolism). This Study revealed many novel findings of adult TS.

Inconsistency of Karyotyping and Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) in a Mosaic Turner Syndrome Case

Purpose  Turner syndrome is a sex chromosomal aberration where majority of the patients have 45,X karyotype, while several patients are mosaic involving 45,X/46,XX; 46,X,i(Xq); and other variants. Cytogenetic analysis, karyotyping, is considered to be the “gold standard” to detect numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities. In the recent years, alternative approaches, such as array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), have been widely used in genetic analysis to detect numerical abnormalities as well as unbalanced structural rearrangements. In this study, we report the use of karyotyping as well as aCGH in detecting a possible Turner syndrome variant.

Methods  An apparent 16-year-old female was clinically diagnosed as Turner syndrome with premature ovarian failure and short stature. The genetic diagnosis was performed for the patient and the parents by karyotyping analysis. aCGH was also performed for the patient.

Main Findings  Cytogenetic analysis of the patient was performed showing variant Turner syndrome (46,X,i(X)(q10)[26]/46,X,del(X)(q11.2)[11]/45,X[8]/46,XX[5]). The patient's aCGH result revealed that she has a deletion of 57,252kb of Xp22.33-p11.21 region; arr[GRCh37] Xp22.33-p11.21 (310,932–57,563–078)X1. Both aCGH and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) results suggested that short stature Homeobox-containing ( SHOX ) gene, which is located on Xp22.33, was deleted, though FISH result indicated that this was in a mosaic pattern.

Conclusion  In the recent years, aCGH has become the preferred method in detecting numerical abnormalities and unbalanced chromosomal rearrangements. However, its use is hindered by its failure of detecting mosaicism, especially low-level partial mosaicism. Therefore, although the resolution of the aCGH is higher, the cytogenetic investigation is still the first in line to detect mosaicism.

Uterine Development During Induced Puberty in Girls with Turner Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Most girls and women with Turner syndrome (TS) require estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to initiate or maintain pubertal development. Most likely, the most fundamental effect of ERT in hypogonadism is the promotion of uterine growth. The optimal ERT model is still being discussed. The present study aimed to assess uterine size in girls with TS in the prepubertal state during and after the induction of puberty and compare it to a healthy population.

METHODS

The analysis encompassed 40 TS girls. The prepubertal and postpubertal control groups contained 20 healthy girls each. All patients with TS were treated with 17-ß estradiol. Uterine imaging was performed with two-dimensional (2D) transabdominal ultrasound. The uterine volume (UV) and fundocervical antero-posterior ratio (FCR) were calculated in patients with TS before the pubertal induction, after 6-12 months of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), after ≥ 36 months of ERT or ≥ 12 months after menarche.

RESULTS

The average age of TS patients at estrogen introduction and at the last control visit, when the uterus was considered mature, was 12.9 years and 16.1 years, respectively. The UV in patients with TS at the beginning of ERT was 1.55 ± 1.22 cm³ and was not significantly different from the UV in the prepubertal controls. The mature UV in patients with TS was 31.04 ± 11.78 cm³ and was significantly smaller than the UV of the postpubertal controls (45.68 ± 12.51 cm³, p<0.001). The FCR in girls with TS did not differ significantly from that in the prepubertal and postpubertal control groups, respectively. No prognostic factors could be established for the final UV. By the last control visit, thelarche had advanced in most patients to Tanner 4 and 5 (37.5% and 40%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Before the onset of ERT, patients with TS have a uterus similar in size to that in prepubertal healthy girls. Pubertal induction in patients with TS causes a significant increase in the UV that is detectable after 6-12 months of ERT. The mature uterus is smaller in patients with TS than in the age-matched healthy population.

TRANSITION-RELATED DISCUSSIONS AMONG ADOLESCENT FEMALES WITH TURNER SYNDROME: CURRENT PRACTICES AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS

OBJECTIVE

To examine the current transition practices and factors associated with the occurrence and timing of transition-related discussions among adolescents with Turner syndrome (TS).

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted at a large pediatric academic center among females with TS seen between 12 and 25 years of age. Medical/developmental characteristics, the age at transition, documented transition-related discussions, and the utilization of transition readiness assessment tools were abstracted. Analyses were conducted to examine the age/occurrence of discussions and associated factors.

RESULTS

Records of 112 patients were reviewed. The average age of TS diagnosis was 7.6 ± 5.8 years, and the average age of those that transitioned from pediatric to adult care (n = 21) was 20.1 ± 2.0 years. Only 22% of individuals had documented discussions regarding transition to adult care, and no transition readiness tools were utilized. The majority of transition-related discussions began between 11 and 15 years. Estrogen and cardiovascular counseling were common (84% and 75%, respectively). Less than half of the subjects had reproductive (40%), lifestyle (43%), and psychosocial (12%) discussions. Cardiovascular conditions were associated with transition to adult care discussions, and neurodevelopmental conditions were associated with psychosocial counseling. In those that transitioned to adult care, transition-related discussions occurred in only half of patients.

CONCLUSION

Our findings emphasize the need for the development and implementation of a standardized transition process for adolescents with TS, with particular attention to transition to adult care and reproductive, lifestyle, and psychosocial counseling. The utilization of formal transition tools may also help prepare these girls for transition to adult care.

Less ready for adulthood?-Turner syndrome has an impact on transition readiness

OBJECTIVE

Young women with Turner syndrome (TS) are known to be at risk for loss to medical follow-up. Recent literature indicates that there are disparities regarding transition readiness between different chronic conditions. So far, studies in young women with TS investigating their transition readiness compared to youths with other chronic conditions with no or minor neurocognitive challenges have not been reported.

METHODS

Patients (n = 52), 26 patients with Turner syndrome (mean age 17.24 ± 2.10) and 26 controls with type 1 diabetes or a rheumatic disease (mean age 17.41 ± 2.44), were recruited from specialized paediatric endocrine outpatient clinics. The Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire TRAQ-GV-15 was used to compare transition readiness scores between TS and controls. In addition, information on individual handling of the questionnaire was obtained. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric methods were used to analyse the data.

RESULTS

Significant differences for transition readiness scores were found between the two study groups. The global TRAQ-GV-15 score was significantly lower for females with TS. In particular, subscale 1 'autonomy' of the TRAQ-GV-15 showed lower scores in patients with TS. Patients with TS needed significantly more help and more time to complete the questionnaire.

CONCLUSION

Special attention should be given to young women with Turner syndrome in the preparation for the transitional phase. By incorporating the assessment of transition readiness specialists will find it easier to identify underdeveloped skills and knowledge gaps in their patients. Unless a multidisciplinary young adult clinic is established, an older age than 18 years at transfer to adult endocrine care might be beneficial.

Levonorgestrel correlates with less weight gain than other progestins during hormonal replacement therapy in Turner Syndrome patients

Turner Syndrome (TS) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic complications. Furthermore, TS women need hormone replacement therapy (HRT), of which progestins can influence body weight. We aimed to analyze the metabolic and weight profile in a cohort of 111 TS women. They started receiving estrogen at 15.8 (±3.6) years old, with no change in hypertension, dysglycemia, and dyslipidemia incidence but with a tendency to increase overweight (p = 0.054). As the first used type of progestin, most had received cycles of 10 days per month of medroxyprogesterone (MPA) or levonorgestrel (LNG), then shifted to micronized progesterone (MP), which has currently become the most used one. By multiple linear regression analysis, we found that the prolonged use of MPA, LNG, or MP showed no metabolic change except for weight gain. The percentage of annual BMI increment was positive for all progestins used in TS women (MPA 2.2 ± 2.2; LNG 0.2 ± 1.2; and MP 2.2 ± 2.6 kg/m2), but LNG seemed to best prevent on weight gain over time (p < 0.05). In conclusion, metabolic comorbidities are prevalent in TS even before the HRT regimen, and LNG performed better on less weight gain than MPA and MP in our cohort of the TS population.

Depression in Turner Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Turner syndrome (TS) is a genetic condition characterized by partial or complete monosomy X. Alterations in hormonal function, height, and peer relationships, among other features and correlates of TS, appear to be risks for depressive illness. In order to summarize what is known about depression in Turner syndrome, with the aim of determining whether individuals with TS are at increased risk for depression, a literature search and analysis were conducted. In total, 69 studies were identified and 35 met criteria of being peer-reviewed English language articles that collected original data on the experience of depression in individuals with TS. Most studies used patient or parent questionnaires to evaluate depressive symptoms. These studies, a majority of which examined adults and half that examined adolescents, found that individuals with TS experienced more frequent and severe depressive symptoms than individuals without TS diagnoses. Articles studying children with TS did not demonstrate a difference in their depressive experience compared to individuals without TS. Three articles used clinician-administered scales, such as the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV; all diagnosed depression in those with TS at higher rates than others. Five studies relied on expert opinion to evaluate depression. The remaining eight articles were case reports or case series that relied on expert opinion. From these data, we conclude that adolescents and adults with TS are at risk for depression and adulthood appears to be the period of the highest risk. Studies in the last 12 years show consistently more severe depressive symptoms in individuals with TS than in previous years. Implications, risk factors, and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Increased Insulin Concentrations During Growth Hormone Treatment in Girls With Turner Syndrome Are Ameliorated by Hormone Replacement Therapy

OBJECTIVE

Turner syndrome (TS) is characterized by complete or partial loss of one sex chromosome and is commonly associated with short stature, metabolic changes (such as central obesity, abnormal glucose tolerance and high triglycerides) and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Primary management of TS during childhood and adolescence comprises treatment with human growth hormone (hGH) and, in cases with early loss of ovarian function, hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Given that metabolic parameters are altered when HRT is applied during menopause, we analyzed whether metabolic changes might be positively or negatively affected within 10 years after HRT and/or hGH in girls with TS.

DESIGN

Observational study.

METHODS

Data were collected from the medical records of 31 girls with TS attending two endocrinologic centers in Germany between 2000 and 2020. Descriptive statistics are reported as the mean ± SEM or percentages.

RESULTS

The mean age at first presentation was 99.06 ± 8.07 months, the mean height was 115.8 ± 3.94 cm, and the mean BMI 19.0 ± 0.99 was kg/m². Treatment with hGH was given to 96.8% of the girls, starting at an average age of 99.06 ± 8.70 months, and was continued for 67.53 ± 6.28 months. HRT was administered to 80.6% of all patients and was started at a mean age of 164.4 ± 4.54 months. During the follow-up, we did not observe any significant absolute changes in lipid parameters, but we detected beneficial effects of childhood hGH: significantly lower cholesterol (-0.206/month; p = 0.006), lower low density lipoprotein cholesterol (-0.216/month; p = 0.004), and higher high density lipoprotein cholesterol (+0.095/month; p = 0.048). Insulin concentrations, showed a significant increase attributable to hGH treatment (+0.206/month; p = 0.003), which was ameliorated by concomitant or subsequent HRT (-0.143/month; p = 0.039).

CONCLUSION

Treatment with hGH and HRT is provided to most girls with TS. Metabolic effects are associated with both modalities. Monitoring of metabolic changes appears to be important to detect unfavorable effects, and could guide treatment adjustment and duration.

Turner syndrome: mechanisms and management

Turner syndrome is a rare condition in women that is associated with either complete or partial loss of one X chromosome, often in mosaic karyotypes. Turner syndrome is associated with short stature, delayed puberty, ovarian dysgenesis, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, infertility, congenital malformations of the heart, endocrine disorders such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and autoimmune disorders. Morbidity and mortality are increased in women with Turner syndrome compared with the general population and the involvement of multiple organs through all stages of life necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to care. Despite an often conspicuous phenotype, the diagnostic delay can be substantial and the average age at diagnosis is around 15 years of age. However, numerous important clinical advances have been achieved, covering all specialty fields involved in the care of girls and women with Turner syndrome. Here, we present an updated Review of Turner syndrome, covering advances in genetic and genomic mechanisms of disease, associated disorders and multidisciplinary approaches to patient management, including growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy.

Recognition and management of adults with Turner syndrome: From the transition of adolescence through the senior years

Turner syndrome is recognized now as a syndrome familiar not only to pediatricians and pediatric specialists, medical geneticists, adult endocrinologists, and cardiologists, but also increasingly to primary care providers, internal medicine specialists, obstetricians, and reproductive medicine specialists. In addition, the care of women with Turner syndrome may involve social services, and various educational and neuropsychologic therapies. This article focuses on the recognition and management of Turner syndrome from adolescents in transition, through adulthood, and into another transition as older women. It can be viewed as an interpretation of recent international guidelines, complementary to those recommendations, and in some instances, an update. An attempt was made to provide an international perspective. Finally, the women and families who live with Turner syndrome and who inspired several sections, are themselves part of the broad readership that may benefit from this review.

Medical and gynecological comorbidities in adult women with Turner syndrome: our multidisciplinary clinic experience

Objective: Women with Turner syndrome (TS) are at increased risk for chronic health conditions. Reports describing the presence of comorbidities in older adult women with TS are limited. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of endocrine, gynecological, and other chronic medical conditions in a cohort of adult TS patients.Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients seen between 1 February 2015 and 1 July 2018 in a multidisciplinary TS clinic at a university-based ambulatory hospital in Toronto, Canada. All women seen at the TS clinic with a diagnosis of TS aged >18 years were included. The prevalence of diseases was determined overall and stratified by age (<40 and ≥40 years). Statistical comparisons were done using the chi-square test. The main study outcomes included the presence of comorbidities.Results: Of 122 adult women with TS, 24.5% had hypothyroidism, 16% had dysglycemia, and 27.9% had decreased bone mass. Hypothyroidism and dysglycemia were more common among older women (respectively age ≥40 years vs. age <40 years: 36.7% vs. 17.8%, p = 0.018; and 24.5% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.023). Gynecological conditions were identified in 35% of patients and were more common among older women (42.8% age ≥40 years vs. 13.7% age <40 years, p = 0.003). Overall, 41% had hearing impairment, 36.1% had cardiac abnormalities, 14.8% had hypertension, 18.8% had renal abnormalities, and 9% had celiac disease.Conclusions: The results of this study indicate a high prevalence of medical conditions in women with TS, especially those ≥40 years of age. Our study underscores the importance of multidisciplinary adult TS clinics for ongoing screening and management of comorbidities.

Report of Spontaneous Internal Carotid Dissection in a Patient with Turner Syndrome with a Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous isolated carotid artery (CA) or vertebral artery (VA) dissection in the absence of coarctation has rarely been reported in the literature. We report the case of a 20-year-old woman with Turner syndrome (TS) who developed an acute left middle cerebral artery territory ischemic stroke from a spontaneous left internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection. We also conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify prior studies establishing an association or other case reports of isolated CA or VA dissection in TS. We queried 5 databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Central, and CINAHL EBSCO. We used a standardized search clause across databases. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to articles retrieved. Studies were excluded based on title alone, abstract, or after vetting the data presented in the paper.

CASE DESCRIPTION

Three case reports of patients with TS presenting with spontaneous intracranial and/or extracranial dissection of the ICA or VA were identified and included in this review.

CONCLUSIONS

We present a case of bilateral spontaneous dissection of the ICA in a patient with TS. Only 3 reported cases of spontaneous extra- or intracranial dissection of the CA or VA were identified via a systematic review of the literature. Arterial dissection of the CA or VA, especially in absence of aortic coarctation, in individuals affected with TS suggest the possibility of systemic vasculopathy. More research is needed to establish a better understanding of the phenotypic effects of TS in macro- and microvascular structures.

Relationship between Echocardiographic and Magnetic Resonance-Derived Measurements of the Thoracic Aorta in Turner Syndrome Patients

INTRODUCTION

Turner syndrome (TS) is assigned to the rare diseases group. Morbidity and mortality of TS patients are high, particularly due to the cardiovascular disorders, so monitoring for cardiovascular complications must be ensured. The data demonstrate a strong correlation between 2-dimensional echocardiographic (2Decho) evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); still, according to recent guidelines, MRI remains a gold standard. In this study, we aimed to compare aortic dimensions on MRI and 2Decho in TS patients.

METHODS

50 TS patients (≥18 years) were enrolled into the cross-sectional study. 2Decho and MRI were performed. The measurements of the aorta were assessed in five standard positions on 2Decho and in 9 standard positions on MRI; ASI (aortic size index) of the ascending aorta was calculated since reduced adult height is observed in TS patients.

RESULTS

ASI on echocardiography strongly correlated with ASI on MRI in all positions of the ascending aorta, but significantly larger medians of ASI were found on 2Decho in all positions of the ascending aorta and arch when compared with MRI measurements. Still, the prevalence of aortic sinus dilation was significantly and more frequently (52% vs. 38%, p < 0.001) observed on MRI when compared with 2Decho.

CONCLUSION

The relation of aortic size was significant in all positions when comparing the MRI and 2Decho methods; still, the dilatation of the sinus of aorta was more frequently found on MRI compared with echocardiography.

The main predictors of the enlargement of ascending aorta in Turner syndrome: a cross-sectional contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify the main predictors of the enlargement of ascending aorta and to assess the possible relation between reduced bone mineral density and a diameter of ascending aorta in the specific Turner syndrome (TS) population.

METHODS

Fifty adult females diagnosed with TS have been enrolled into the cross-sectional study. Dimensions of ascending aorta have been measured in four positions using thoracic magnetic resonance imaging, Aortic Size Index (ASI) has been calculated. BMD has been assessed on dual-energy-X ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 1-4 lumbar vertebrae and neck of the femur. According to Z Score on DXA two groups have been formed: a group of patients with normal BMD and a group with reduced BMD. Metabolic parameters and the measurements of ascending aorta have been compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Extremely high rate of the dilatation of the root of aorta (up to 50%) was identified in this study. The larger ASI has been found in patients with reduced BMD, negative relation between BMD and ASI has been identified, although after the adjustment for SHRT this correlation remained insignificant. In the multivariate analysis, the main factors affecting ASI were age, body surface area and bicuspid aortic valve.

CONCLUSIONS

The main factors associated with the enlargement of ascending aorta in Turner syndrome were age, body surface area and bicuspid aortic valve, the relation between diameter of ascending aorta and bone mineral density was not identified.

Anti-Müllerian hormone levels in patients with turner syndrome: Relation to karyotype, spontaneous puberty, and replacement therapy

Most girls with Turner syndrome (TS) suffer from incomplete sexual development, premature ovarian failure, and infertility due to abnormal ovarian folliculogenesis. Serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels reflect the ovarian reserve in females, even in childhood. Thus, we aimed to assess serum AMH levels in girls with TS and its relation to karyotype, spontaneous puberty, and growth hormone (GH) therapy. Fifty TS were compared to 50 age- and sex-matched controls. All subjects were subjected to history, anthropometric assessment, Tanner pubertal staging and measurement of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), and AMH. Karyotype results were obtained from patients' records. Serum AMH was measurable in 12 TS patients (24%). The lowest frequency of measurable AMH was in patients with a karyotype of 45,X. The measurable AMH was associated with spontaneous breast development (p = .003) and spontaneous menarche (p = .001). AMH correlated negatively with FSH (r = -.846, p = .000) and LH (r = -.83, p = .034). GH therapy increased the odds of having measurable AMH in TS girls (p = .002). In conclusion, AMH was associated with karyotype, spontaneous pubertal development, LH, and FSH in TS girls and may serve as a useful marker of ovarian function and ongoing follicular development in prepuberty.

Prevalence of diverse complications and its association with karyotypes in Japanese adult women with Turner syndrome-a questionnaire survey by the Foundation for Growth Science

The reported prevalence of complications in Turner Syndrome (TS) was highly variable because of the rarity and the limited numbers analyzed. Again, possible presence of other complications that are not described as specific for TS, is also speculated. To resolve these issues, a questionnaire survey was conducted in hGH treated 492 patients with adult TS (17-42 years). The possible association with these complications and karyotypes were also analyzed. The complications and their prevalence were as follows: chronic thyroiditis (25.2%), inflammatory bowel disease (1.8%), congenital cardiovascular anomaly (11.8%), urinary tract malformation (11.8%), low bone mineral density (BMD) (42.9%), scoliosis (8.4%), hearing loss (6.2%), epilepsy (2.8%) and schizophrenia (0.9%). The majority of prevalence of these diseases in TS was higher than in the general population. In distribution, the most frequent karyotype was 45,X monosomy (28.9%), followed by 45,X/46,X,Xi (16.9%), 46,X,Xi (9.1%), and 45,X/46,XX (6.3%), while other mosaic 45,X was noted in 29.9%. Regarding the karyotype, cardiovascular anomaly was more frequent in the 45,X group and less in the 46,X,Xi group. Urinary tract malformation and epilepsy were frequently associated with the chromosome 45,X. The prevalence of low BMD was noticed more in the chromosome 46,X,Xi and 45,X/46,X,Xi, and less in other mosaic 45,X. In conclusion, the more exact prevalence of diverse complications was clarified and it exceeded the prevalence of the majority of complications in general population. As novel findings, it was observed that the prevalence of epilepsy was significantly high, and epilepsy and low BMD were frequently associated with the specific karyotypes.

Health status, quality of life and medical care in adult women with Turner syndrome

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that only a minority of patients with Turner syndrome (TS) have adequate medical care after transfer to adult care.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

To assess the status of medical follow-up and quality of life (QoL) in adult women diagnosed with TS and followed up until transfer. To compare the subjective and objective view of the medical care quality and initiate improvements based on patients' experiences and current recommendations.

METHODS

39 adult women with TS out of 64 patients contacted were seen for a clinical and laboratory check, cardiac ultrasound, standardized and structured questionnaires (SF-36v2 and Beck depression inventory).

RESULTS

7/39 of the patients were not being followed medically at all. Only 2/39 consulted all the specialists recommended. Comorbidities were newly diagnosed in 27/39 patients; of these, 11 related to the cardiovascular system. Patients in our cohort scored as high as the mean reference population for SF-36v2 in both mental and physical compartments. Obese participants had lower scores in the physical function section, whereas higher education was related to higher physical QoL scores. Adult height slightly correlated positively with physical health.

CONCLUSION

Medical follow-up was inadequate in our study cohort of adults with TS. Even though their medical follow-up was insufficient, these women felt adequately treated, leaving them vulnerable for premature illness. Initiatives in health autonomy and a structured transfer process as well as closer collaborations within specialities are urgently needed.

New insights on diabetes in Turner syndrome: results from an observational study in adulthood

OBJECTIVE

To explore the characteristics of diabetes mellitus in adults with Turner syndrome.

DESIGN

Observational study consisting of a prospective phase after the access of adults with Turner syndrome to the Endocrinology Unit (median period of follow-up 15.6, interquartile range: 12.0-24.5 months) and a retrospective collection of data from the diagnosis of Turner syndrome until the time of access to the Endocrinology Unit. A total of 113 Italian Turner syndrome patients were included in the study. During the prospective phase of the study, each patient underwent physical examination, fasting blood sampling, and an oral glucose tolerance test on a yearly basis. Oral glucose tolerance test was used to perform the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

Before access to the Endocrinology Unit, diabetes mellitus was diagnosed in two Turner syndrome patients. Another five cases of diabetes mellitus were diagnosed at the first access to the Endocrinology Unit, whereas seven new cases of diabetes mellitus were diagnosed during the prospective phase of the study. At the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, only one patient had fasting glucose above 126 mg/dL, and only two had an HbA1c value >6.5% (48 mmol/mol). When compared to normo-glucose tolerant patients, the diabetic patients had a significantly lower insulin-to-glucose ratio at 30 and 60 min of the oral glucose tolerance test. In the regression analyses, only age was associated with the development of diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that diabetes mellitus is frequent in Turner syndrome and suggests that it is specific to the syndrome. In addition, this study demonstrates that oral glucose tolerance test is a more sensitive test than HbA1c for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus in Turner syndrome.

Late-Onset Puberty Induction by Transdermal Estrogen in Turner Syndrome Girls-A Longitudinal Study

OBJECTIVE

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) for Turner syndrome (TS) is a widely discussed topic; however, the optimal model of ERT for patients with delayed diagnosis and/or initiation of therapy is still unclear, mainly due to insufficient data. We present the results of a prospective observational single-center study in which the efficacy of late-onset puberty induction by one-regimen transdermal ERT in TS girls was evaluated.

METHODS

The analysis encompassed 49 TS girls (63.3% with 45,X) with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism in whom unified transdermal ERT protocol was used for puberty induction (first two months 12.5 μg/24 h, thereafter 25.0 μg/24 h until breakthrough bleeding). Clinical visits for examination and therapy modification took place every 3-6 months. Transabdominal pelvic ultrasound examinations were performed at least twice: at the beginning and at the end of follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age at ERT induction was 15.1 (1.3) years. The duration of follow-up was 2.4 (1.1) years. Half of all the patients had at least B2 after 0.57 years, B3 after 1.1 years, B4 after 1.97 years, and menarche after 1.82 years from ERT initiation. With earlier initiation of ERT (≤14 years), B2 (p = 0.059) was achieved faster and B4 (p = 0.018) significantly slower than with the later start of ERT. Thirty-four (94.4%) patients had at least stage B3 at menarche. The karyotype, initial weight, and body mass index had no impact on puberty tempo during ERT. The uterine volume increased significantly during ERT in all the study group (p < 0.0001), and in half of the patients, the increase was at least 12.4-fold. It did not correlate with the duration of treatment (p = 0.84) or the dose of estradiol per kilogram (p = 0.78), nor did it depend on karyotype (p = 0.71) or age at ERT initiation (p = 0.28). There were no differences in ΔhSDS during ERT (p = 0.63) between the two age groups (ERT ≤14 and >14 years).

CONCLUSION

The presented easy-to-use fixed-dose regimen for late-onset puberty induction allowed for a satisfactory rate of achieving subsequent puberty stages and did not influence the growth potential.

Bridging the gap: metabolic and endocrine care of patients during transition

OBJECTIVE

Seamless transition of endocrine patients from the paediatric to adult setting is still suboptimal, especially in patients with complex disorders, i.e., small for gestational age, Turner or Prader-Willi syndromes; Childhood Cancer Survivors, and those with childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency.

METHODS

An expert panel meeting comprised of European paediatric and adult endocrinologists was convened to explore the current gaps in managing the healthcare of patients with endocrine diseases during transition from paediatric to adult care settings.

RESULTS

While a consensus was reached that a team approach is best, discussions revealed that a 'one size fits all' model for transition is largely unsuccessful in these patients. They need more tailored care during adolescence to prevent complications like failure to achieve target adult height, reduced bone mineral density, morbid obesity, metabolic perturbations (obesity and body composition), inappropriate/inadequate puberty, compromised fertility, diminished quality of life and failure to adapt to the demands of adult life. Sometimes it is difficult for young people to detach emotionally from their paediatric endocrinologist and/or the abrupt change from an environment of parental responsibility to one of autonomy. Discussions about impending transition and healthcare autonomy should begin in early adolescence and continue throughout young adulthood to ensure seamless continuum of care and optimal treatment outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Even amongst a group of healthcare professionals with a great interest in improving transition services for patients with endocrine diseases, there is still much work to be done to improve the quality of healthcare for transition patients.

Turner syndrome: From birth to adulthood

BACKGROUND

Turner syndrome is characterized by a great variability of clinical manifestations caused by a total or partial loss of X-chromosome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective, descriptive study of the diagnosis, course, and current status of patients with Turner syndrome followed up at our section over the past 40 years, based on review of medical records supplemented with a telephone survey.

RESULTS

Forty-five female patients with a current mean age of 22.95years (range 2-38) and a mean age at diagnosis of 4.71 were included. Sixty-three percent of them showed a mosaic karyotype. Short stature was the most common reason for consultation (54%), with increased prenatal diagnosis in most recent cases. Seventy-two percent have been treated with growth hormone, together with oxandrolone in 26%. Final stature was short in 69% of patients. Gonadal failure was found in 66%; most of whom received replacement therapy. Three patients achieved pregnancy by oocyte donation. The 31 adult patients are mainly monitored by the endocrinology (37.5%) and/or gynecology (34.4%) departments. As regards psychosocial aspects, 22% required support during school, and 80% completed middle to high level education. Two patients died, one due to dissecting aortic aneurysm and the other one, who had multiple pathological conditions, from respiratory failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Short stature is the main cause of diagnosis in patients with Turner syndrome; most cases show genetic mosaicism. The most common clinical manifestations include short stature and gonadal failure. Eighty percent of patients complete middle or high education. In adulthood, follow-up is irregular, sometimes scarce, and clearly improvable.

Transition of adolescents and young adults with endocrine diseases to adult health care

The transition of adolescents with chronic endocrine diseases to adult care remains a major challenge for all those participating in the process. In paediatric endocrinology, a variety of diseases pose different challenges in the transitional process. The outcome of this transitional process is often judged by what happens after transfer. The young patient needs to be educated early on about continuing treatment into adulthood, resulting in full autonomy over their health care in early adulthood. Therefore, to optimize transition, paediatric and adult endocrinologists must work together to achieve continuity and to meet the needs of young patients.