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van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Fernandez CV, Graf N, Geller JI. Progress by international collaboration for pediatric renal tumors by HARMONIzation and COllaboration: The HARMONICA initiative. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 70 Suppl 2:e30082. [PMID: 36426385 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - C V Fernandez
- IWK Health Centre and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - N Graf
- Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - James I Geller
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Arbiv OA, Cuvelier G, Klaassen RJ, Fernandez CV, Robitaille N, Steele M, Breakey V, Abish S, Wu J, Sinha R, Silva M, Goodyear L, Jardine L, Lipton JH, Corriveau-Bourque C, Brossard J, Michon B, Ghemlas I, Waespe N, Zlateska B, Sung L, Cada M, Dror Y. Molecular analysis and genotype-phenotype correlation of Diamond-Blackfan anemia. Clin Genet 2017; 93:320-328. [PMID: 29044489 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA) features hypoplastic anemia and congenital malformations, largely caused by mutations in various ribosomal proteins. The aim of this study was to characterize the spectrum of genetic lesions causing DBA and identify genotypes that correlate with phenotypes of clinical significance. Seventy-four patients with DBA from across Canada were included. Nucleotide-level mutations or large deletions were identified in 10 ribosomal genes in 45 cases. The RPS19 mutation group was associated with higher requirement for chronic treatment for anemia than other DBA groups. Patients with RPS19 mutations, however, were more likely to maintain long-term corticosteroid response without requirement for further chronic transfusions. Conversely, patients with RPL11 mutations were less likely to need chronic treatment. Birth defects, including cardiac, skeletal, hand, cleft lip or palate and genitourinary malformations, also varied among the various genetic groups. Patients with RPS19 mutations had the fewest number of defects, while patients with RPL5 had the greatest number of birth defects. This is the first study to show differences between DBA genetic groups with regards to treatment. Previously unreported differences in the rate and types of birth defects were also identified. These data allow better patient counseling, a more personalized monitoring plan, and may also suggest differential functions of DBA genes on ribosome and extra-ribosomal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- O A Arbiv
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - G Cuvelier
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - R J Klaassen
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - C V Fernandez
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada
| | - N Robitaille
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, CHU Sainte Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - M Steele
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada
| | - V Breakey
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Canada
| | - S Abish
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - J Wu
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - R Sinha
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - M Silva
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - L Goodyear
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Janeway Child Health Centre, St. John's, Canada
| | - L Jardine
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - J H Lipton
- Department of Haematology and Internal Medicine, Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - C Corriveau-Bourque
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, University of Alberta Health Sciences Centre, Edmonton, Canada
| | - J Brossard
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Centre Y Sante L'Estrie-Fleur, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - B Michon
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - I Ghemlas
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Haematology/Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - N Waespe
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,The Marrow Failure and Myelodysplasia Program, Haematology Section, Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - B Zlateska
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,The Marrow Failure and Myelodysplasia Program, Haematology Section, Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - L Sung
- Program in Child Health and Evaluative Medicine, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Lymphoma Leukemia Section, Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - M Cada
- The Marrow Failure and Myelodysplasia Program, Haematology Section, Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Y Dror
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,The Marrow Failure and Myelodysplasia Program, Haematology Section, Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Ferrer FA, Rosen N, Herbst K, Fernandez CV, Khanna G, Dome JS, Mullen E, Gow KW, Barnhart DC, Shamberger RC, Ritchey M, Ehrlich P. Image based feasibility of renal sparing surgery for very low risk unilateral Wilms tumors: a report from the Children's Oncology Group. J Urol 2013; 190:1846-51. [PMID: 23727411 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2013.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nephrectomy with lymph node sampling is the recommended treatment for children with unilateral Wilms tumor under the Children's Oncology Group protocols. Using radiological assessment, we determined the feasibility of performing partial nephrectomy in a select group of patients with very low risk unilateral Wilms tumor. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed imaging studies of 60 patients with a mean age of less than 2 years with very low risk unilateral Wilms tumor (mean weight less than 550 gm) to assess the feasibility of partial nephrectomy. We evaluated percentage of salvageable parenchyma, tumor location and anatomical features preventing a nephron sparing approach. RESULTS A linear relationship exists between tumor weight and computerized tomography estimated tumor volume. Mean tumor weight in the study population was 315 gm. Partial nephrectomy was deemed feasible in only 5 of 60 patients (8%). CONCLUSIONS When considering a select population with very low risk unilateral Wilms tumor (lower volume tumor), only a small percentage of nonpretreated patients are candidates for nephron sparing surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Ferrer
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut.
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Siminoski K, Lee KC, Abish S, Alos N, Bell L, Blydt-Hansen T, Couch R, Cummings EA, Ellsworth J, Feber J, Fernandez CV, Halton J, Huber AM, Israels S, Jurencak R, Lang B, Laverdière C, LeBlanc C, Lewis V, Midgley J, Miettunen PM, Oen K, Phan V, Pinsk M, Rauch F, Rodd C, Roth J, Saint-Cyr C, Scuccimarri R, Stephure D, Taback S, Wilson B, Ward LM. The development of bone mineral lateralization in the arms. Osteoporos Int 2013; 24:999-1006. [PMID: 22744715 PMCID: PMC4105250 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-012-2054-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Bone mineral content (BMC) is known to be greater in the dominant arm after the age of 8 years. We studied a group of children and found that BMC sidedness gradually increased up to the age of 6 years and then remained stable into late adolescence. INTRODUCTION Bone mineral content (BMC) exhibits sidedness in the arms after the age of 8 years, but it is not known whether BMC is greater in the dominant arm from birth or whether lateralization develops in early childhood. To address this, we examined bone mineral status in relation to handedness and age. METHODS Subjects (N = 158) were children recently initiating glucocorticoids for underlying disease (leukemia 43 %, rheumatic conditions 39 %, nephrotic syndrome 18 %). Handedness was determined by questionnaire and BMC by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS Median age was 7.2 years (range, 1.5 to 17.0 years), 49 % was male, and the spine BMD Z-score was -0.9 (SD, 1.3). By linear regression, BMC sidedness in the arms was significantly related to age (r = 0.294, p = 0.0005). Breakpoint analysis revealed two lines with a knot at 6.0 years (95 % CI, 4.5-7.5 years). The formula for the first line was: dominant:nondominant arm BMC ratio = 0.029 × age [in years] + 0.850 (r = 0.323, p = 0.017). The slope of the second line was not different from 0 (p = 0.332), while the slopes for the two lines were significantly different (p = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS These results show that arm BMC sidedness in this patient group develops up to age 6 years and then remains stable into late adolescence. This temporal profile is consistent with mechanical stimulation of the skeleton in response to asymmetrical muscle use as handedness becomes manifest.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Siminoski
- University of Alberta, 6628-123 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6H 3T6.
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Marjerrison S, Fernandez CV, Price VE, Njume E, Hesseling P. The use of ultrasound in endemic Burkitt lymphoma in Cameroon. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58:352-5. [PMID: 21370431 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.23050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 01/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As ultrasound (US) has become more widely available in sub-Saharan Africa, emerging evidence suggests that the prevalence of abdominal disease in endemic Burkitt lymphoma (eBL) is higher than previous estimates. This retrospective chart review was designed to assess: (1) abdominal US utilisation, (2) the incidence of abdominal disease at diagnosis, (3) correlation of extent of disease at diagnosis with overall and event-free survival (EFS). PROCEDURE The charts of 95 consecutive children with eBL diagnosed between April 2006 and 2008 and treated according to the Malawi 2002/03 protocol at the Banso Baptist Hospital in Cameroon were examined for demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup and outcome. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Z-tests and Student's t-tests. RESULTS Fifty of 95 presumptive eBL patients (52.7%) had fine needle aspirate (FNA) confirmation of their tumours. Ninety-four of 95 had an US at diagnosis. US was superior to clinical exam in demonstrating abdominal disease (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the rates of jaw (73%) and abdominal disease (82%) identified by US at diagnosis. EFS among patients whose disease was upgraded by US (64%) was better that of the patients with clinically diagnosed stage 3 disease. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that US provides more accurate staging of eBL than clinical examination. Abdominal involvement is more common than previously reported and appears to be as frequent as disease of the jaw at presentation. Further study should determine if more accurate staging with US is useful in risk-stratifying treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marjerrison
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Hashmi SK, Allen C, Klaassen R, Fernandez CV, Yanofsky R, Shereck E, Champagne J, Silva M, Lipton JH, Brossard J, Samson Y, Abish S, Steele M, Ali K, Dower N, Athale U, Jardine L, Hand JP, Beyene J, Dror Y. Comparative analysis of Shwachman-Diamond syndrome to other inherited bone marrow failure syndromes and genotype-phenotype correlation. Clin Genet 2011; 79:448-58. [PMID: 20569259 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2010.01468.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Our knowledge of the phenotypes of inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFSs) derives from case reports or case series in which only one IBMFS was studied. However, the substantial phenotypic overlap necessitates comparative analysis between the IBMFSs. Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS) is an IBMFS that the appreciation of what comprises its clinical phenotype is still evolving. In this analysis we used data on 125 patients from the Canadian Inherited Marrow Failure Study (CIMFS), which is a prospective multicenter population-based study. Thirty-four cases of SDS patients were analyzed and compared to other patients with the four most common IBMFSs on the CIMFS: Diamond Blackfan anemia, Fanconi anemia (FA), Kostmann/severe congenital neutropenia and dyskeratosis congenita (DC). The diagnosis of SDS, FA and DC was often delayed relative to symptoms onset; indicating a major need for improving tools to establish a rapid diagnosis. We identified multiple phenotypic differences between SDS and other IBMFSs, including several novel differences. SBDS biallelic mutations were less frequent than in previous reports (81%). Importantly, compared to patients with biallelic mutations, patients with wild type SBDS had more severe hematological disease but milder pancreatic disease. In conclusion, comprehensive study of the IBMFSs can provide useful comparative data between the disorders. SBDS-negative SDS patients may have more severe hematological failure and milder pancreatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Hashmi
- Marrow Failure and Myelodysplasia Program, Division of Haematology/ Oncology and Cell Biology Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Tsangaris E, Klaassen R, Fernandez CV, Yanofsky R, Shereck E, Champagne J, Silva M, Lipton JH, Brossard J, Michon B, Abish S, Steele M, Ali K, Dower N, Athale U, Jardine L, Hand JP, Odame I, Canning P, Allen C, Carcao M, Beyene J, Roifman CM, Dror Y. Genetic analysis of inherited bone marrow failure syndromes from one prospective, comprehensive and population-based cohort and identification of novel mutations. J Med Genet 2011; 48:618-28. [PMID: 21659346 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2011.089821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFSs) often have substantial phenotypic overlap, thus genotyping is often critical for establishing a diagnosis. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS To determine the genetic characteristics and mutation profiles of IBMFSs, a comprehensive population-based study that prospectively enrols all typical and atypical cases without bias is required. The Canadian Inherited Marrow Failure Study is such a study, and was used to extract clinical and genetic information for patients enrolled up to May 2010. RESULTS Among the 259 primary patients with IBMFS enrolled in the study, the most prevalent categories were Diamond-Blackfan anaemia (44 patients), Fanconi anaemia (39) and Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (35). The estimated incidence of the primary IBMFSs was 64.5 per 10(6) births, with Fanconi anaemia having the highest incidence (11.4 cases per 10(6) births). A large number of patients (70) had haematological and non-haematological features that did not fulfil the diagnostic criteria of any specific IBMFS category. Disease-causing mutations were identified in 53.5% of the 142 patients tested, and in 16 different genes. Ten novel mutations in SBDS, RPL5, FANCA, FANCG, MPL and G6PT were identified. The most common mutations were nonsense (31 alleles) and splice site (28). Genetic heterogeneity of most IBMFSs was evident; however, the most commonly mutated gene was SBDS, followed by FANCA and RPS19. CONCLUSION From this the largest published comprehensive cohort of IBMFSs, it can be concluded that recent advances have led to successful genotyping of about half of the patients. Establishing a genetic diagnosis is still challenging and there is a critical need to develop novel diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Tsangaris
- Marrow Failure and Myelodysplasia Program, Division of Hematology/Oncology and Cell Biology Program, Research Institute, the Hospital for Sick Children and the University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Mullen EA, Anderson JR, Steacy KJ, Geller JI, Green DM, Norkool P, Fernandez CV, Khanna G, Malogolowkin MH, Dome J. The impact of surveillance imaging on overall survival in patients with recurrent Wilms tumor: A report from the Children’s Oncology Group. J Clin Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.29.15_suppl.9536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Elzinga K, Fernandez CV, Heng DYC, Tang PA. Returning research results to clinical trial participants: A survey of patients with cancer. J Clin Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.29.15_suppl.2611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Hilliard RI, Fernandez CV, Tsai E. La participation éthique des enfants et des adolescents à la formation en médecine. Paediatr Child Health 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/pch/16.4.228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Finlay KA, Fernandez CV. Failure to report and provide commentary on research ethics board approval and informed consent in medical journals. J Med Ethics 2008; 34:761-764. [PMID: 18827111 DOI: 10.1136/jme.2007.023325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Declaration of Helsinki prohibits the publication of articles that do not meet defined ethical standards for reporting of research ethics board (REB) approval and informed consent. Despite this prohibition and a call to highlight the deficiency for the reader, articles with potential ethical shortcomings continue to be published. OBJECTIVE To determine what proportion of articles in major medical journals lack statements confirming REB approval and informed consent, and whether accompanying commentary alerts readers to this deficiency. DESIGN Retrospective, observational study. SETTING Online review of five major medical journals. POPULATION All clinical research articles published online between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2006 in the BMJ, Lancet, Annals of Internal Medicine, JAMA and the New England Journal of Medicine. MEASUREMENTS Statement of REB approval and informed consent. RESULTS Of 1780 articles reviewed, 1133 (63.7%) met inclusion criteria (manuscripts reporting human subjects, human tissue or identifiable personal data research), 36 (3.2%) articles lacked a statement of REB approval, 62 (5.5%) lacked disclosure of informed consent and 15 (1.3%) articles lacked both. Articles that did not state REB approval were associated with not stating informed consent (p<0.001). There were no editorial comments to alert readers to the lack of either REB approval or informed consent statements associated with any of the deficient articles. CONCLUSIONS Articles that lack explicit statements of REB approval and informed consent are infrequent but continue to be published in major medical journals without editorial statements to alert the reader to this deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Finlay
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Fernandez CV, Anderson J, Breslow N, Dome J, Grundy P, Perlman E, Green D. Patient weight and event-free survival for children under 2 years of age at diagnosis with favorable histology Wilms tumor. J Clin Oncol 2007. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2007.25.18_suppl.20002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
20002 Background: Over- and underweight have been associated with excess mortality in certain childhood cancers. The impact of the child’s weight at diagnosis on event-free survival (EFS) in favorable histology Wilms tumor (FH WT) is unknown. Methods: Patients with FH WT under 2 years of age at enrolment on NWTS-5 were included. This age group was analyzed by body weight in kilograms because body mass index (BMI) norms do not exist for individuals less than 2 years old. Outcomes by BMI for children older than 2 years of age with FH WT will be analyzed separately. CDC 2000 growth charts were used. Patients were stratified for risk based on stage and chemotherapy protocol [EE4A = vincristine/dactinomycin] [DD4A = vincristine/doxorubicin/ actinomycin]. A univariate analysis of the relationship of weight-for-age and EFS was calculated. A Cox proportional hazards model was fitted for EFS examining four subsets of weight-for-age by percentiles: a) less than 5%, b) 5–9.9%, c) 90–94.9% and d) more than 95% and adjusting for risk/treatment groups via stratification. Results: 594 patients met the study criteria. 567 had weights recorded. Median follow-up was 4.7 years. 10% of patients had a weight for age percentile of 5.6 or below and 10% had a weight percentile of 94.1 or above. A univariate analysis of the relationship of weight-for-age and EFS showed no relationship (p=0.40, log-rank test). A Cox proportional hazards model, stratified by risk/treatment groups, showed that low or high weight-for-age was not predictive of outcome (p=0.24). Conclusions: There was no evidence that low or high weight-for-age was predictive for EFS among patients less than 2 years old with FH WT. There were more patients with lower or higher weight than would be expected. [Table: see text] No significant financial relationships to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. V. Fernandez
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
| | - J. Anderson
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
| | - N. Breslow
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
| | - J. Dome
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
| | - P. Grundy
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
| | - E. Perlman
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
| | - D. Green
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada; University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC; Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Children’s Memorial Medical Center, Chicago, IL; Roswell Park Cancer Institute/WCHOB, Buffalo, NY
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Fernandez CV, Santor D, Weijer C, Strahlendorf C, Moghrabi A, Pentz R, Gao J, Kodish E. The return of research results to participants: pilot questionnaire of adolescents and parents of children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007; 48:441-6. [PMID: 16425279 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.20766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The offer to return research results to participants is increasingly recognized as an ethical obligation, although few researchers routinely return results. We examined the needs and attitudes of parents of children with cancer and of adolescents with cancer to the return of research results. METHODS Seven experts in research ethics scored content validity on parent and adolescent questionnaires previously developed through focus group and phone interviews. The questionnaires were revised and provided to 30 parents and 10 adolescents in a tertiary care oncology setting. RESULTS The content validity index for individual questions and the overall questionnaires scored as 0.86 for both questionnaires. All 30 parents and 10 adolescents who agreed to participate returned questionnaires. The majority (>95%) indicated that they had a strong or very strong right to receive results. Letter or e-mail was a satisfactory means to return results described as good or neutral (66% parents, 100% adolescents) but more participants wished face-to-face disclosure of results with negative implications (50% parents, 60% adolescents). Very few wanted results disseminated through a Web site. The majority acknowledged the need for peer-review before disclosure (60% of adolescents and parents) but did not want "to be the last to know." CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that pediatric oncology patients and parents of children with cancer strongly feel that they have a right to research results, and that they wish to receive these in a timely manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Fernandez CV. Les cancers orphelins et nos obligations morales. CMAJ 2007. [DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.070022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Steele JM, Sung L, Klaassen R, Fernandez CV, Yanofsky R, Wu J, Odame I, Silva M, Champagne J, Ali K, Brossard J, Samson Y, Abish S, Le D, Jardine L, Hand JP, Lipton JH, Charpentier K, Stephens D, Freedman M, Dror Y. Disease progression in recently diagnosed patients with inherited marrow failure syndromes: a Canadian Inherited Marrow Failure Registry (CIMFR) report. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2006; 47:918-25. [PMID: 16676307 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.20876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IMFSs) are genetic disorders characterized by defective single-lineage or multi-lineage hematopoiesis. IMFS patients are at risk for severe cytopenias, development of marrow cytogenetic abnormalities (MCA), myelodysplasia (MDS), and malignancy. The rate of disease progression and proportion of patients at risk for these complications is currently unclear. We examined recently diagnosed IMFS patients to determine distribution of diagnoses, disease progression and development of significant outcomes. METHODS The CIMFR is a prospective multi-center study established in 2001 to register all IMFS patients in Canada. Analysis was restricted to patients diagnosed after November 30, 1997. Summary statistics were used to depict the study population while survival was described using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS 74 CIMFR patients were considered recently diagnosed. Median age at diagnosis was 2.7 years (range, birth to 40.6). Annual follow-up data were available for 53 (72%) patients. The five most prevalent diagnoses were Fanconi anemia (FA), Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS), Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA), dyskeratosis congenita (DKC), and Kostmann's neutropenia (KS). Eighteen (24%) patients were unclassifiable. Twenty-eight (53%) follow-up patients had disease progression as indicated by new or worsening cytopenias, new marrow changes, or initiation of transfusion support and/or medical therapy. Fourteen (19%) fulfilled minimal diagnostic criteria for myelodysplasia. Eleven patients had hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) by first follow-up. Five patients have died. Survival at 36 months is 89.8 +/- 5.7%. CONCLUSIONS IMFS patients are often diagnosed at a young age. The relative distribution of diagnoses is similar to previous reviews of published cases; however, 25% of patients are currently unclassifiable. Disease progression has occurred in approximately 50% of follow-up patients. Early mortality is noted. Continued prospective observation of these patients is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Steele
- Canadian Inherited Marrow Failure Registry, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Baruchel S, Diezi M, Hargrave D, Stempak D, Gammon J, Moghrabi A, Coppes MJ, Fernandez CV, Bouffet E. Safety and pharmacokinetics of temozolomide using a dose-escalation, metronomic schedule in recurrent paediatric brain tumours. Eur J Cancer 2006; 42:2335-42. [PMID: 16899365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2006.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2005] [Revised: 02/15/2006] [Accepted: 03/15/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), toxicity and pharmacokinetics of oral temozolomide administered over 42 d in children with recurrent/refractory brain tumours. Cohorts of 3-6 patients were treated for 42 d, followed by a 7-d rest period for a maximum of 6 cycles. Patients were stratified as heavily pre-treated (HPT) and non-heavily pre-treated (NHPT). Starting doses were 50 mg/m2 (HPT) or 75 mg/m2 (NHPT). Out of 28 patients enrolled, 20 were evaluable for toxicity and 19 for pharmacokinetics. Three patients in the NHPT group developed grade 3/4 haematological toxicity, 2 experienced dose-limiting toxicity (thrombocytopenia) at 100 mg/m2, and 9/20 developed grade 3 lymphopenia. MTD in both strata was 85 mg/m2. Responses were observed in 4 patients: 2 complete responses (CR) in medulloblastoma and supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumours (PNET), and 2 partial responses (PR) in high-grade glioma, respectively. Overall cumulative exposure was at least 1.5 times higher than in the 5-d administration schedule. In conclusion, the recommended dose of temozolomide is 85 mg/m2 x 42 d. Dose-limiting toxicities are thrombocytopenia and lymphopenia. The observed response rate warrants phase II studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Baruchel
- New Agent and Innovative Therapy Program, Department of Paediatrics, Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ont., Canada M5G 1X8.
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17
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Macneil SD, Fernandez CV. Informing research participants of research results: analysis of Canadian university based research ethics board policies. J Med Ethics 2006; 32:49-54. [PMID: 16373524 PMCID: PMC2563276 DOI: 10.1136/jme.2004.010629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2004] [Revised: 04/05/2005] [Accepted: 04/10/2005] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite potential benefits of the return of research results to research participants, the TriCouncil Policy Statement (TCPS), which reflects Canadian regulatory ethical requirements, does not require this. The policies of Canadian research ethics boards (REBs) are unknown. OBJECTIVES To examine the policies of Canadian university based REBs regarding returning results to research participants, and to ascertain if the presence/absence of a policy may be influenced by REB member composition. DESIGN Email survey of the coordinators of Canadian university based REBs to determine the presence/absence of a policy on return of research results to research participants both during an ongoing study and at conclusion. REB coordinators were asked to return a copy of the policy or guidelines and to describe the member composition of their REB. FINDINGS Of 50 REBs that were contacted 34 (68%) responded and 22 (64.7%) met the inclusion criteria. Two (9.1%) had a policy that governed the return of research results while on a study, and seven (31.8%) following the completion of a study. Presence of an ethicist or a lawyer on the REB did not influence the presence/absence of such policies. No REBs had specific guidelines describing how participants should be informed of results. CONCLUSIONS Most REBs did not require researchers to disclose study results to research participants either during or following a study. Thus this study identifies an ethical shortcoming in the conduct of human research in Canada. It has also demonstrated that there are no clear recommendations by REBs to facilitate the return of results to participants following research projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Macneil
- IWK Health Centre, PO Box 9700, 5850/5980 University Avenue, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3K 6R8 Canada
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18
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Benedict JM, Simpson C, Fernandez CV. Parental perceptions of the informed consent process in pediatric bone marrow transplantation (BMT). J Clin Oncol 2004. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2004.22.90140.6123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - C. Simpson
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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19
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McMulkin HM, Yanchar NL, Fernandez CV, Giacomantonio C. Sentinel lymph node mapping and biopsy: a potentially valuable tool in the management of childhood extremity rhabdomyosarcoma. Pediatr Surg Int 2003; 19:453-6. [PMID: 12740706 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-003-0956-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2002] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Multimodal therapy, involving surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, now dominates the management of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) in childhood. Yet, despite improvements in these practices, extremity tumors continue to fare relatively poorly. Several investigators have identified prognostic factors that can be used to direct therapy and predict outcome. These factors include histology and metastatic disease, the latter requiring accurate staging to identify. The presence of lymph node metastases has been shown to be of prognostic significance and is incorporated into pre-treatment staging schemes. Up to 50% of all surgically evaluated nodes and 17% of clinically negative nodes in extremity RMS may harbor tumor, underscoring the increased risk of understaging the disease if accurate lymph node dissection is not undertaken. Despite its importance, there appears to be no standard format by which regional nodal status is evaluated in extremity RMS. Sentinel lymph node mapping and biopsy are a minimally invasive technique, currently used in the staging of adult breast cancer and melanoma. In adults, the technique is associated with optimum nodal yield and low morbidity. We describe a case in which sentinel node mapping and dissection were used to easily and accurately stage a distal upper extremity alveolar RMS in a child with clinically and radiologically negative regional lymph nodes. The procedure yielded no positive nodes, was associated with no morbidity and spared the child more extensive radiotherapy. We propose the further evaluation of this simple and innovative technique in the overall management of this childhood malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M McMulkin
- General Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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20
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Abstract
We report a novel cytogenetic finding in a favorable histology Wilms tumor occurring in a 4-month-old boy. Karyotypic analysis demonstrated a t(6;15)(q21;q21) in all tumor cells examined. This was confirmed using fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. Molecular analysis of this rearrangement may provide clues to understanding the pathobiology of Wilms tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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21
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Abstract
The concurrence of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and an asymptomatic juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma is described. A 6-year-old boy without clinical evidence of neurofibromatosis had a juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma diagnosed on radiologic examination and before treatment of acute pre-B cell lymphoblastic leukemia. The patient has had a partial resection of the astrocytoma and is 9 months into treatment of his ALL, which is in complete remission. p53 gene mutation was not identified in this patient. The concurrent diagnosis before treatment of ALL and juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma, the latter normally an indolent tumor, suggests that some cases of astrocytoma previously ascribed to radiotherapy or other treatment may in fact be caused by other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Kim
- QEII Health Sciences Centre and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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22
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Fernandez
- IWK Grace Health Centre for Children, Women and Families, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Fernandez CV, Esau R, Hamilton D, Fitzsimmons B, Pritchard S. Intrathecal vincristine: an analysis of reasons for recurrent fatal chemotherapeutic error with recommendations for prevention. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 1998; 20:587-90. [PMID: 9856687 DOI: 10.1097/00043426-199811000-00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Accidental intrathecal vincristine instillation is usually a fatal error. The authors report an analysis of a patient and suggest means with which to reduce such errors. PATIENTS AND METHODS A 7-year-old girl with recurrent acute lymphoblastic leukemia was inadvertently injected intrathecally with 1.5 mg vincristine. A detailed analysis of the events leading to this error and a review of all reported cases in the English literature were undertaken. RESULTS Reasons for errors reported by us and other institutions included mistaking vincristine for an intended intrathecal drug, assuming vincristine was an additional drug to be injected, not checking physician orders, mistaken route of administration, and mislabeling of syringes. CONCLUSION Intrathecal injection of vincristine may be the end-result of a series of systems errors. Protocol recommendations to reduce the likelihood of this error are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
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Fernandez CV, Stutzer CA, MacWilliam L, Fryer C. Alternative and complementary therapy use in pediatric oncology patients in British Columbia: prevalence and reasons for use and nonuse. J Clin Oncol 1998; 16:1279-86. [PMID: 9552026 DOI: 10.1200/jco.1998.16.4.1279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Alternative and complementary therapies are infrequently studied in pediatric populations. We performed a population-based survey to aid health care workers in identifying and counseling parents who may use these remedies. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively surveyed the parents of 583 pediatric patients diagnosed with cancer in British Columbia between 1989 and 1995. Prevalence and factors that influence the use and nonuse of alternative and complementary therapies were estimated. RESULTS Alternative and complementary therapies were used by 42% of 366 respondents. Herbal teas, plant extracts, and therapeutic vitamins were the most commonly used alternative therapies. Relaxation/imagery strategies, massage, and therapeutic touch were the most commonly used complementary techniques. Factors that influenced the use of alternative/complementary therapies were prior use (chi2 = 60.0, P < .0001), prior positive attitude towards these remedies (chi2 = 41.6, P < .0001), soliciting information from family and friends (chi2 = 70.5, P < .0001) or from alternative care givers (chi2 = 58.7, P < .0001), high risk of death at diagnosis (chi2 = 9.6, P < .002), and advanced education of the father (chi2 = 7.4, P < .006) or mother (chi2 = 8.6, P < .003). Parents who used alternative/complementary therapies did so in conjunction with conventional medicine (98%). Lack of knowledge and fear of interference with conventional therapies were the most common reasons cited for nonuse. No parent believed that the quality of life of their child deteriorated due to the use of alternative/complementary therapies. CONCLUSION Alternative and complementary therapy use in pediatric oncology patients is common. Factors have been identified that may be associated with undertaking their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, and University of British Columbia School of Nursing, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
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Schultz KR, Fernandez CV, Israel DM, Magee F, Wensley D, Sargent MA, Abella E, Karanes C. Association of gastroesophageal reflux with obstructive lung disease in children after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Blood 1995; 85:3763-5. [PMID: 7780159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
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Fernandez CV, Rees EP. Pain management in Canadian level 3 neonatal intensive care units. CMAJ 1994; 150:499-504. [PMID: 7906191 PMCID: PMC1486306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine current practices in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of managing postoperative pain, pain associated with nonsurgical procedures and disease-related pain. DESIGN Retrospective, self-administered descriptive mail survey. SETTING Level 3 NICUs in Canada. PARTICIPANTS The head nurses of the 30 Canadian level 3 NICUs in February 1992; 26 (87%) responded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Five-point Likert scale of Always (in 100% of cases), Often (in 75% to 99%), Usually (in 25% to 74%), Rarely (in 1% to 24%) and Never (in 0%). Selected items were validated through a chart review. RESULTS Opioids were used postoperatively always or often in 93% (13/14), 88% (15/17) and 65% (11/17) of the NICUs that cared for neonates having undergone cardiac, major and minor surgery respectively. Most of the NICUs did not use paralysis or sedation alone for postoperative pain management. Local anesthesia was used always or often for emergent chest tube placement in 16% (4/25) of the NICUs, for elective chest tube placement in 48% (12/25) and for lumbar puncture in 12% (3/24). An analgesic was rarely or never used for insertion of a tracheal tube in emergent situations in 88% (23/26) of the NICUs and in elective situations in 84% (21/25); the corresponding figures for sedative use were 85% (22/26) and 73% (19/26). Only 22% (5/23) used opioids regularly in cases of nonsurgically managed necrotizing enterocolitis. Physicians alone determined the rate of opioid weaning in 54% (13/24) of the NICUs. Opioids were usually described as being weaned as tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Analgesic use for the management of postoperative pain in neonates having undergone cardiac and major surgery is frequent but continues to be infrequent in the postoperative care of patients having undergone minor surgery in some NICUs. Procedural and disease-related pain is frequently untreated or undertreated. Guidelines for establishing a protocol to manage pain in NICUs are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, Izaak Walton Killam Children's Hospital, Halifax, NS
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Abstract
Seizures occurred in two adolescents approximately six hours after sedation with propofol for bone marrow biopsy. Case #1 was a patient with chronic renal failure, hypertension, and anaemia. Case #2 had just been diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukaemia. Neither child had experienced seizures before, and both recovered without neurological sequelae. Although other factors may have caused the seizures, the episodes have raised concerns about the safety of propofol for patients travelling home after out-patient surgery. Further study is required to explain the cause of this complication or, at least, to identify risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Finley
- Department of Anaesthesia, Izaak Walton Killam Children's Hospital, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Abstract
We describe two children who had central nervous system complications, encephalitis and meningoencephalitis, temporally associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae. M pneumoniae was identified as the cause of the illnesses on the basis of at least a fourfold increase in complement fixation antibody titers. Despite extensive viral and bacterial investigation, no evidence of any other pathogen was found. Two strategies were used to determine whether M pneumoniae was directly invasive: (1) by examining cerebrospinal fluid using a M pneumoniae-specific DNA probe and (2) by determining whether complement-fixating antibody to M pneumoniae was produced locally through comparison of the cerebrospinal fluid/serum ratio of M pneumoniae antibody to the cerebrospinal fluid/serum ratio of immunoglobulin M. Both assessments were negative. M pneumoniae did not appear to directly invade the central nervous system in these two patients. We conclude that the direct invasion of the cerebrospinal fluid is not necessary in the pathogenesis of M pneumoniae-induced neurologic disease.
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Fernandez CV. Hallucinations induced by an antihistamine-decongestant mixture: Should children use over-the-counter drugs? Can Fam Physician 1992; 38:2184-2210. [PMID: 21221288 PMCID: PMC2145491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
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