Pulmonary sarcoidosis in children: a follow-up study

Progression of pulmonary sarcoidosis in children remains poorly documented. The aim of this work was to gather follow-up information on pulmonary outcomes in children with sarcoidosis and to obtain data of relevance to a discussion of the optimal length and regimen of glucocorticoid therapy. In the present study, the authors experience of pulmonary sarcoidosis in 21 children referred to the paediatric pulmonary department over a 10-yr period is reported with a documented follow-up of at least 4 yr. Evaluation of the disease during the follow-up included analysis of clinical manifestations, chest radiographs, pulmonary function tests with measurements of the vital capacity (VC), dynamic lung compliance (CL,dyn), lung transfer for CO (TL,CO), and arterial blood gases, as well as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) with determination of total and differential cell counts. After initial evaluation the decision was a careful observation of four children without therapy. Corticosteroid treatment was initiated in 17 children. Analysis of results indicated that after 6-12 months of treatment most clinical manifestations of the disease and chest radiograph abnormalities disappeared, and beneficial effects on VC and TL,CO were apparent. After 18 months of steroids no benefit on pulmonary function tests could be noticed, with mainly persistence of alterations of CL,dyn. Results of BAL studies documented the presence of an alveolitis with increased lymphocyte populations throughout the follow-up. Relapses were observed in four children during tapering of prednisone; they were not reported after discontinuation of steroid therapy. Taken together data obtained in the presented population can lead to the following suggestions for the management of pulmonary sarcoidosis in children. BAL should be performed at the initial evaluation to document alveolitis; however, nothing seems to be gained from repeating this investigation during follow-up in the absence of specific reasons. Once the decision to initiate glucocorticoid therapy is made, 18 months may be a reasonable treatment duration. Discontinuation of therapy can be decided even if the pulmonary function tests remain abnormal, but the child should then be carefully monitored for a relapse.

Genotype analysis and phenotypic manifestations of children with intermediate sweat chloride test results

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common inherited diseases among whites. Since the cloning of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, a number of studies have focused on associations between the genotype and phenotype in CF. This had led to the progressive identification of new groups of patients, including those who have mild lung disease and those who have normal sweat chloride values (< 60 mEq/L). The aim of the present work was to provide information on the genotype and the phenotypic characteristics of children with intermediate-range sweat chloride test results.

PATIENTS AND RESULTS

We focused on children referred to the pulmonary department for various types of pulmonary disease and who had several sweat chloride test results with median values in the range of 40 to 60 mEq/L. Twenty-four patients over a 10-year period were enrolled (mean age, 4.8 years). Respiratory manifestations at initial evaluation included recurrent bronchitis, wheezing, chronic cough, and pneumonia. The duration of the follow-up ranged from 0.5 to 10.5 years. Sputum cultures revealed the presence of Haemophilus influenzae (10 children), Staphylococcus aureus (4 children), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (3 children). Pancreatic insufficiency was found in two patients. Analysis of the entire coding sequence allowed identification of 16 known mutations in CFTR gene. Fifteen chromosomes (31.2%) carried a mutation in CFTR gene and one allele carried two mutations. Three patients were homozygous or double heterozygous (DeltaF508/DeltaF508, DeltaF508/3849 + 10 kb C-->T, S1235R/G551D). The 5-thymidine allele was identified in four children.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate an higher frequency of CFTR gene mutations in patients with borderline sweat chloride test results, compared to data reported in the general population. They lead to the recommendations for complete pulmonary and GI investigations in this group of patients, as well as assiduous care and medical follow-up.

Distinct sputum cytokine profiles in cystic fibrosis and other chronic inflammatory airway disease

The dominant role of inflammation in airways disease progression in cystic fibrosis (CF) is now well established and, based on recent findings, the possibility of an inappropriate inflammatory response in the lung of patients with CF has emerged. In order to characterize this response, the aim of the present work was to evaluate the levels of a number of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the sputum of CF children and to compare these levels to those observed in the sputum from non-CF children with diffuse bronchiectasis (DB). Three groups of patients were investigated: a group of 25 CF children (mean age: 12.2 yrs), a group of 10 non-CF children with DB (mean age 11.5 yrs), and a group of five healthy young adults (mean age 24 yrs). Elevated concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-8 were found in children with CF and in non-CF children with DB, with significantly higher concentrations of IL-1beta in CF children. Analysis of the natural anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) and type II TNF soluble receptor (sTNFRII) concentrations showed distinct patterns, with elevated levels of both inhibitors in CF patients, whereas only sTNFRII was found to be increased in non-CF children with DB. IL-10 data indicated low concentrations in the CF group. In all CF children, the concentrations of IL-6 in the airways were extremely low, independent of the clinical, bacteriological or functional status. By contrast, significantly increased IL-6 levels were found in non-CF children with DB. These results document distinct cytokine profiles in cystic fibrosis patients and noncystic fibrosis patients. They also suggest that impairment of interleukin-6 expression may represent an important component of the excessive inflammatory response observed in cystic fibrosis.

[Clinical and respiratory function follow-up of 39 infants treated with neonatal respiratory extracorporeal assistance]

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the consequences of neonatal treatment with a venovenous extracorporeal respiratory assistance.

POPULATION AND METHODS

Thirty nine neonates (28 boys) with acute respiratory failure were included. Extracorporeal respiratory assistance consisted of an apnoeic oxygenation with low frequency positive pressure ventilation and extracorporeal membrane CO2 removal through a venous single canula perfusion circuit. The causes of respiratory distress were: 15 meconium aspiration syndrome, 12 respiratory distress syndrome, six hyaline membrane disease, three sepsis, two diaphragmatic hernia, and one post-surgery Mendelson syndrome. The mean duration of mechanical ventilation was 18 days, including 5 days of extracorporeal respiratory assistance. The prospective follow-up included physical examination, chest radiographs, scintigraphy and pulmonary function tests. These tests studied the following parameters: functional residual capacity by helium dilution technique, lung resistance and dynamic lung compliance by the esophageal balloon technique and blood gases with arterialized blood samples.

RESULTS

The mean duration of the follow-up was 21.3 months (6 months to 5 years). Results showed in the first year 33% of children with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chest (X-ray abnormalities, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia in 23% of children. Data of pulmonary function test at the end of the first year: lung resistance and functional residual capacity were within limits of predicted values for height, and dynamic lung compliance was slightly decreased; according to the analysis of the functional profile: 31% without abnormality, 41% of obstructive syndrome and 26% with restrictive pattern. Blood gases were normal in 37 children. At the end of the second year, we noticed normal functional residual capacity, an increase of lung resistance while lung compliance was normalized; functional profile was quite different: with a decrease of the number of patients without abnormality (22%) and increase of those with obstructive syndrome (56%).

CONCLUSION

The percentage of abnormalities is high but these are moderate in most cases, especially if we compare with the initial seriousness of the pulmonary pathology. We suggest a regular follow-up to study the respective incidence of pulmonary disease and/or extracorporeal respiratory assistance over these abnormalities.

Chronic interstitial lung disease in children: response to high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone pulses

The prognosis for children with chronic interstitial lung disease is poor and the mortality rate is high, especially in infants. This explains the many therapeutical protocols which have been proposed and investigated by several authors. In the present work, we evaluated the response of three infants with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to high-dose intravenous prednisolone pulses. The patients were referred to the department at the age of 4, 17, and 3 months, respectively. The diagnosis was confirmed by open lung biopsy and intravenous pulse methyl prednisolone therapy was started with the following protocol: 300 mg/m2 methylprednisolone daily for 3 days, repeated every 4 to 6 weeks. Because of the extreme severity of the respiratory distress at the time of diagnosis, the intravenous pulse treatments were initially complemented by oral prednisone. Clinical improvement was noticed within 6 months with progressive correction of hypoxemia. After follow-up for 3.5 to 4 years, with a total number of pulses of 37, 26, and 32, respectively, the children are symptom-free and do not require oxygen supplementation. During this period, no side effects and no adrenal insufficiency could be documented. Based on current knowledge of steroid action, it can be speculated that the response to intermittent high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone may explain the ability of this mode of hormone administration to maintain an adequate level of glucocorticoid receptor expression. More information and trials through multicenter collaborations are needed to assess therapeutical protocols of repeated high-dose intravenous steroid treatment.

[Mucoviscidosis: therapeutic strategies are multiplying]

Since the cloning of the defective gene in cystic fibrosis, much has been learned on the function of CFTR and on the mechanisms regulating its expression. Based on the current understanding of the processes involved in lung disease progression, a number of approaches have been developed using gene therapy and pharmacological agents. Several of these agents have been reported to restitute a function to CFTR with specific mutations. Other molecules act on channels other than CFTR, and may be effective by bypassing CFTR itself. In the present review the various therapeutical strategies currently investigated are discussed.

Multicenter, open-label study of recombinant human DNase in cystic fibrosis patients with moderate lung disease. DNase International Study Group

Cystic fibrosis is characterized by the accumulation of thick viscous purulent secretions. Recombinant human deoxyribonuclease I (rhDNase) breaks down extracellular DNA, which contributes to the increased viscosity of sputum. A multinational, open-label study was conducted in 974 cystic fibrosis patients with moderate lung disease [forced vital capacity (FVC) 40-70% of predicted values] to examine the safety and efficacy of aerosolized rhDNase, 2.5 mg, once daily over a period of at least 12 weeks. Patients were assessed under conditions reflecting routine clinical practice. During rhDNase therapy, at least one respiratory tract infection (RTI) requiring intravenous antibiotics was experienced by 29.5% of patients. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and FVC were significantly improved from baseline by a mean of 10.5% and 7.2%, respectively. Voice alteration and pharyngitis were the most frequent rhDNase-related adverse events, but only 2% of all patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events. The results obtained were similar to a subanalysis of data from the first 3 months of a placebo-controlled U.S. study. The patients in the present study had a similar frequency of RTIs and improvement in pulmonary function, and reported fewer rhDNase-related and cystic fibrosis-related adverse events than patients in the U.S. study. We conclude that administration of rhDNase is safe, well tolerated, and effective under conditions reflecting routine clinical practice in patients with cystic fibrosis and moderate lung disease.

Expression of insulin-like growth factors and their binding proteins by bronchoalveolar cells from children with and without interstitial lung disease

The involvement of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system in lung growth and repair following injury is sustained by a number of studies. Based on this knowledge, the aim of the present work was to document the expression of the IGFs and their binding proteins by alveolar cells obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Two groups were investigated: a control group of five children and a group of 11 children referred to the department for exploration of interstitial lung disease (ILD). Components of the IGF system studied included IGF-I, IGF-II and IGF-binding proteins (IGFBP). Expression of these factors was analysed at the level of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) (by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction techniques), and of protein for the IGFBPs. In addition, expression of two major cytokines associated with the inflammatory process, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), was also documented. In children without parenchymal disease, the growth factor expressed was IGF-I, in association with the presence of mRNA for IGFBP-2 in all cases. In children with ILD, expression of IGF-I was observed in nine patients and of IGF-II in three patients, and the presence of IGFBP-2 was found in all extracts analysed (mRNA and proteins). Evaluation of IGFBP-2 expression indicated an increase in the group of children with ILD. Interestingly, a significant association was observed between the increase in IGFBP-2 expression and TGF-beta expression. The present data emphasize the presence on insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-2 in the BAL of all patients, and suggest that this protein may be an important factor of the injury/repair processes during the progression of alveolar inflammation.

CFTR gene analysis in cystic fibrosis patients: detection of 91% of molecular defects and identification of the novel mutation D979V

More than 600 mutations have been identified in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene and are known to cause cystic fibrosis (CF). This large number of mutations makes the search of the molecular defects in CF patients difficult. We have used the techniques of denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and direct DNA sequencing to detect the mutations in 334 CF chromosomes mostly of French origin. The whole coding sequence of the CFTR gene corresponding to the 27 exons and their exon-intron boundaries was studied. 45 different mutations were identified. This method allowed us to detect the molecular defect in 90.5% of the mutant alleles and to report a novel mutation D979V.

[Tuberculous pneumopathy in the course of cystic fibrosis]

BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis is rarely seen in patients with cystic fibrosis.

CASE REPORT

A 14-year old female adolescent, regularly followed for a well-tolerated form of cystic fibrosis, developed an acute respiratory infection with consolidation of the left inferior lobe, and no response to the usual antibiotic treatment of cystic fibrosis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was found in aspirate by fibroscopy, on Loewenstein medium. No familial or social infection contact were identified. Antituberculous chemotherapy with three drugs brought about a prompt improvement of sytemic signs, weight gain, resolution of pulmonary foci and sedation of biological findings referable to inflammation.

CONCLUSION

This case report reminds us that tuberculosis may occur in cystic fibrosis patients. Loewenstein cultures should routinely be made when faced with an unexplainable worsening of the condition.

Longitudinal study of Aspergillus fumigatus strains isolated from cystic fibrosis patients

The colonization over time of cystic fibrosis patients by Aspergillus fumigatus was investigated using a DNA fingerprinting method. Aspergillus fumigatus isolates collected sequentially for more than one year from six patients with cystic fibrosis were typed by Southern blot hybridization with a repetitive DNA sequence. Each cystic fibrosis patient harbored several strains of Aspergillus fumigatus that were isolated recurrently over time. Isolates collected from a cystic fibrosis patient with aspergilloma displayed the same genotype, suggesting that the infection was due to a single strain. Continuous isolation of the same genotype in another cystic fibrosis patient, however, was not correlated clinically with an Aspergillus infection.

[Gorham disease with prominent pleuropulmonary manifestation]

Gorham's disease usually manifests as diffuse osteolysis but may be complicated with pleural effusion. We describe the case of a 12 year-old boy who had repeated pleural effusions. Radiographs show a mediastinal widening and an interstitial syndrome related to hemolymphangiomatous involvement.

Mycobacterial lung disease in cystic fibrosis: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) may be predisposed to airway infections with unusual organisms, such as mycobacteria. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence and clinical picture of mycobacterial infection in CF children.

METHODS

At least 2 acid-fast bacillus (AFB) smears and mycobacterial cultures were performed on a prospective basis on 682 sputum specimens from 106 patients during a 1-year period.

RESULTS

Thirty-three percent of the cultures were contaminated with other bacteria. Seven children had at least one sputum culture positive for one mycobacterium. Five children had only one positive AFB culture. Their clinical status and lung function remained stable during follow-up. Two teenagers with severe lung disease had several positive AFB smears and cultures for Mycobacterium chelonae and Mycobacterium abscessus. The isolation of M. chelonae and M. abscessus was associated with a clinical and functional decline. Clarithromycin treatment resulted in temporary improvement with the disappearance of the mycobacteria after 6 months of treatment. This prospective study shows an incidence of 2.3% for positive cultures. The prevalence was 6.6% for mycobacterial colonization but only 1.9% for mycobacterial lung disease in our pediatric population.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend performing AFB smears and cultures in CF children with severe lung disease and/or during a lung exacerbation. In these patients persistence of M. chelonae or M. abscessus in sputum should lead to consideration of treatment with clarithromycin.

Adrenobronchial fistula complicating a neonatal adrenal abscess: treatment by percutaneous aspiration and antibiotics

A case of retroperitoneal pulmonary fistula caused by a neonatal adrenal abscess is reported. The adrenal abscess was diagnosed by means of needle aspiration which guided the choice of antibiotic therapy. The fistula was demonstrated by direct injection of contrast medium into the adrenal abscess. Treatment by needle aspiration of the adrenal abscess and intravenous antibiotics was successful.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in infants

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a poorly characterized disease in infants. In the present report, we reviewed our experience with 10 infants during a 10-year period. In 9 patients, onset of symptoms occurred before the age of 2 months and included tachypnea, cough, and inadequate weight gain. However, despite the presence of these symptoms, diagnosis was delayed for 3 months at which time the infants were referred to the pediatric pulmonary department, when the diagnosis was confirmed by open lung biopsy. At the time of admission, bronchoscopy with alveolar lavage was performed in 9 children and showed severe alveolitis with an increase in the neutrophil count. Nine infants were treated with prednisone alone or in combination with chloroquine, colchicine, or cyclophosphamide; all these patients died despite treatment. One infant was treated with pulses of methylprednisolone because of a failure in response to oral prednisone. This girl who displayed similar clinical, radiological, and histological abnormalities as the other children at the time of diagnosis is the only child still alive after 3 years of follow-up. She is now free of respiratory symptoms and has a normal growth curve. The present report raised two important points: (1) a thorough evaluation of characteristic symptoms should lead to an early diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis in infants; and (2) administration of pulse therapy using corticosteroids has been helpful and needs to be evaluated further.

[Diagnosis of acute bronchopulmonary infections in children]

Positive diagnosis of acute bronchopneumopathy in the child is relatively easy, but defining its aetiology is another matter. Criteria to distinguish between pneumopathy of viral or of bacterial origin should be known but are often on the wrong track. Some clinical and radiological pictures, associated with epidemiological data, can also orient toward an infectious agent and should be taken into account. When clinical severity or the background requires precise diagnosis in order to better adapt the treatment, a choice will need to be made among the numerous techniques now available to detect the responsible infectious agent.

Molecular epidemiology of Burkholderia cepacia, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Alcaligenes xylosoxidans in a cystic fibrosis center

Burkholderia cepacia, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Alcaligenes xylosoxidans have been isolated with increasing frequency from the sputum of patients with cystic fibrosis in a pediatric hospital. In 1994-95, 27 of 120 patients were persistently colonized, 17 with Burkholderia cepacia, eight with Alcaligenes xylosoxidans, and five with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Genotyping of 220 clinical isolates revealed that most of the Burkholderia cepacia strains were clonally related, suggesting either cross-infection or a common source of exposure. In contrast, neither cross-infection nor a common source of exposure appear to have occurred in the cases of Alcaligenes xylosoxidans or Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.

[Bronchial mucoepidermoid carcinoma: apropos of 3 cases]

BACKGROUND

Mucoepidermoïd carcinomas (MEC) are very rare (less than 20 cases reported in the literature) and potentially malignant bronchial gland carcinomas.

PATIENTS

Three children, two boys (11 and 7 years old) and one girl (5 years old) suffered from respiratory symptoms such as cough, recurrent pneumonia and/or hemoptysis for 2 to 12 months. Bronchial endoscopy showed a mass into the left (two cases), or the right main bronchus (one case). Chest CT scan identified local extension, and lung-associated lesions. Histopathological study concluded to MEC in the three cases. The patients were treated by segmental bronchial resection, completed with left upper lobectomy (two cases), bronchotomy (one case). All the tumor could be removed; there was no metastasis. The outcome was uneventful with a 8 to 24 months follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Bronchial tumors of children must be considered in patients with chronic cough, recurrent pneumonia and/or hemoptysis and require bronchial endoscopy for their diagnosis.

[Pulmonary toxicity of drugs and thoracic irradiation in children]

The pathology of drug-induced pulmonary toxicity in children is poorly understood and probably under-estimated, in the absence of any prospective studies evaluating in a systematic fashion the side effect of medication on the respiratory apparatus. The pulmonary toxicity of thoracic irradiation has markedly receded with more restricted indications for this sort of treatment. Three clinical patterns are most commonly encountered in drug induced lung disease in children: interstitial lung disease, hypersensitivity lung disease and non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema. The diagnosis is a diagnosis of exclusion and rests on a group of clinical arguments and also on the progress of the disease. Broncho-alveolar lavage rules out infectious disease. Respiratory function tests show non-specific anomalies. A lung biopsy may be indicated. The mechanism of the pulmonary toxicity are associated with disequilibrium of the oxidant/antioxidant and protease/antiprotease system as well as disturbance of the immune response or alteration of the pulmonary matrix by disease of the collagen system. Increased toxicity may be seen in children because of a very significant cumulative dose. The cytotoxic drugs which are most often implicated in causing this are bleomycin, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide and busulfan. Other drugs which are responsible for toxic lung disease are nitrofurantoin, sulfasalazine, D-penicillamine, betalactams, Diphenyl-hydantoin and carbamazepine. Acute post-radiation lung disease is rare. Post-radiation fibrosis is found six months after irradiation and hinders thoraco-pulmonary growth in the child. It is important to assess lung function in all children before any chemotherapy or thoracic irradiation. Cytotoxic drugs are the most common cause of toxic lung disease. This iatrogenic disease requires a multi-discipline approach to ensure the quality of care for these children.

Pseudomonas (Burkholderia) cepacia in children with cystic fibrosis: epidemiological investigation by analysis or restriction fragment length polymorphism

Since 1987, Pseudomonas cepacia has been isolated with an increasing frequency in the expectorants of children with cystic fibrosis followed at the Hôpital d'enfants Armand Trousseau (Paris, France). Colonization by P. cepacia may be responsible for serious secondary infections and rapid deterioration in respiratory function in these patients. Among the 130 children attending our centre, 14 (8 girls and 6 boys) aged 3 to 18, exhibited chronic colonization. 132 isolates, originating from sputum obtained between 1992 and 1994 were studied. Nine biochemical patterns and 6 antibiotic susceptibility patterns at least were defined, therefore exhibiting great polymorphism. Chromosome restriction patterns with Xba I after pulsed field gel electrophoresis enabled 4 pulsotypes to be identified: A, B, C and D. Thirteen patients harboured pulsotypes A, C and D, and 1 patient pulsotype B, the last being quite distinct from the first three. Pulsotypes A, C and D were almost similar, suggesting that closely related strains, probably the same strain, was harboured by 13 of the 14 patients. The origin could be contamination from a single source, or stem from patient-to-patient crossed transmission.

[Bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and mucoviscidosis]

Patients with cystic fibrosis often suffer from aspergillosis infection (basically due to Aspergillus fumigatus) which frequently colonizes their respiratory tract, but its role in the respiratory insufficiency are poorly understood. Several clinical situations occur. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis rarely occurs in a typical form, and is usually difficult to diagnose from the atypical manifestations. Finally indications and treatment modalities are still subject to debate.

[New pharmacological approaches: rhDNase]

rhDNase (Pulmozyme) is a new agent in the therapeutic strategy for patients with cystic fibrosis. It is one of the first specific treatments aimed at the respiratory tract. It affects the extracellular DNA which is present in abundant quantities in the bronchial secretions of these patients. rhDNase significantly reduces the incidence of infections and improves respiratory function. It should be used as a major treatment in combination with all other treatments in patients over 5 years of age with a vital capacity of at least 40% the theoretical value. It is important to schedule the respiratory exercises as a function of rhDNase intake. The long-term therapeutic benefit remains to be evaluated.

Cytotoxic drug-induced pulmonary disease in infants and children

The increased survival rate of malignant diseases due to more aggressive treatments contributes to the occurrence of drug-induced pulmonary diseases (DIPD). We reviewed, retrospectively over a 10-year period, 15 children (8 girls) who presented a DIPD. Their mean age was 9 years (range, 1 to 17 years), with an underlying malignant disease in 14 (9 leukemias). Three typical patterns have emerged from this analysis: (1) acute hypersensitivity lung disease caused by methotrexate (in 6 patients) or azathioprine (in 1 patient). This acute syndrome consisted of alveolar-interstitial infiltrate with a hypercellularity on bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) (mean, 714,286 cells/mL; range, 180,000-2,940,000 cells/mL) and an increase of lymphocyte counts (mean, 39%; range 11-64%) with predominantly CD8-suppressor/cytotoxic lymphocytes. Inhibition of leukocyte migration or leukocyte aggregation in the presence of low drug concentrations was positive in the 5 cases tested. Lung function tests showed a restrictive pattern and the outcome of DIPD was always favorable. (2) Chronic pneumonitis/fibrosis was seen in 6 patients who received a variable association of cyclophosphamide (3 patients), bleomycin (2 patients), BCNU (2 patients), and melphalan (1 patient). Symptoms of an alveolar-interstitial pneumonitis developed progressively. BAL showed a moderate increase of total cell numbers (mean, 495,000 cells/mL; range, 150,000-900,000 cells/mL). Lung function tests showed a restrictive pattern. Despite corticosteroid treatment in 4 children, one died after bleomycin lung injury and 2 had functional lung impairment. (3) Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema occurred in 2 patients with leukemia treated with recombinant interleukin II. BAL showed hypercellularity and outcome was rapidly favorable.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Sarcoidosis of the upper respiratory tract in children

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatosis of unknown etiology which mainly affects young adults. It is characterized primarily by bilateral hilar adenopathies, a pulmonary infiltrate and cutaneous and ocular lesions. It rarely occurs in children under the age of 16. Localization in the upper respiratory tract (URT) is infrequent and sarcoidosis of the URT in children is exceptional, with only 13 cases reported in the literature. In the present report we describe the clinical, diagnostic explorations, histological and therapeutic aspects of 2 new cases in children.

Resting energy expenditure in infants with cystic fibrosis

To evaluate the contribution of energy expenditure to the energy imbalance seen in cystic fibrosis patients, resting energy expenditure was measured using open-circuit indirect calorimetry in eight infants with cystic fibrosis, aged 2-7 months (mean, 4), without overt lung disease and in 10 healthy age-matched controls. In both groups, we found close, significant, linear correlations between resting energy expenditure and body weight and between resting energy expenditure and fat-free mass as measured by anthropometry. Cystic fibrosis patients had a 26% increase in resting energy expenditure per kilogram of fat-free mass as compared with controls and a 32% increase in resting energy expenditure as compared with predicted values for fat-free mass. These data from young infants free of clinical symptoms suggest a constitutional metabolic disorder in cystic fibrosis and support the need for early nutritional therapy in cystic fibrosis patients.

[Tuberculosis in children]

In developed countries like France, the incidence of tuberculosis is low, 5 to 6% in patients under 15 years of age. At the present time, tuberculosis has been irradicated in 11 French regions. Inversely, tuberculosis is still found in the Paris area. Half of the children with tuberculosis are under 5 years of age, underscoring the high risk at this age. Lung and lymph node infection is most often encountered in children with typical complications of endobronchial fistulization and segmentary or lobular atelectasy. Direct examination does not reveal germs in more than 80% of the cases. Other forms are more rarely found in children although congenital, meningeal, serofibrinous pleural, and cervical lymph node tuberculosis are sometimes observed. Latent primary infection, by far the most frequent, can only be recognized by the intradferal tuberculin test. Systematic treatment modalities would now center on the use of combined chemotherapy using two bacteriocidal antibiotics for 2 or 3 years.

Pulmonary sarcoidosis in children: serial evaluation of bronchoalveolar lavage cells during corticosteroid treatment

The clinical course of sarcoidosis in children has not been well defined. Eight children with symptomatic sarcoidosis included in this study underwent pulmonary function tests and bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) before treatment and during steroid therapy. At the start of therapy, functional parameters, mostly dynamic lung compliance and lung transfer factor for CO, were impaired. This was associated with abnormalities of BAL cell populations: increased total cell number with a high proportion of lymphocytes, modifications of lymphocyte subpopulation with an elevated CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and enhanced ability of alveolar macrophages to release hydrogen peroxide. Although respiratory abnormalities seemed to be similar at the initial stage of sarcoidosis in children and adults, the course of the disease appeared to be different. Despite the absence of respiratory symptoms and disappearance of chest radiographic abnormalities on prolonged steroid treatment, we found slow improvement of pulmonary functions associated with persistence of BAL lymphocytosis and elevated CD4+/CD8+ ratios. However, the ability of alveolar macrophages to release hydrogen peroxide was significantly reduced after 6 months of steroid treatment, and it remained identical to the control group. Therefore, the evaluation of disease activity appears to be critical for therapy in pediatrics, and for this purpose studies of alveolar macrophage activation may be of particular interest.

[Mechanical ventilation by nasal mask in children with cystic fibrosis. Initial results of a non-invasive method]

BACKGROUND

Chronic respiratory failure (CRF) with hypoxia and hypercapnia is the last ineluctable phase in cystic fibrosis (CF). Nasal positive pressure ventilation (NPPV), a non-invasive method, may be given to CF children with CRF, especially to patients accepted for transplantation (T). This method improves ventilatory function by resting the chronically exhausted respiratory muscles, facilitates bronchial drainage by physiotherapy, prevents the exacerbations of the illness and prepares patients for T.

METHODS AND PATIENTS

NPPV was used in 6 CF patients (mean age 13 years 6 months). One of them was transplanted 15 days later, two of them were accepted for T. All had hypoxia. Five of them had hypercapnia.

RESULTS

NPPV was given to four patients for 3 to 14 months. The preliminary results were positive. One patient gained weight, two had more fluid sputum. One patient showed an increase in functional respiratory tests (FRT: PaO2, vital capacity, FEV-1) while these tests were stabilized in the others.

CONCLUSIONS

NPPV in an effective non-invasive method for use with CF children. It is indicated for CF patients accepted for T and also earlier, for CF patients with CRF in order to prevent acute exacerbations and functional respiratory deterioration.

[Heart or heart-lung transplantation and toxoplasmosis]

Among all organ transplantations, those of heart or heart-lung carry the greatest risk of toxoplasmosis. The disease is observed mainly when the donor is seropositive and the recipient seronegative. In these mismatched couples the risk may be as high as 57 percent. Cardiac tissue transplants are responsible for most contaminations. A subclinical serological reactivation can be observed in seropositive recipients. Patent forms are associated with seroconversion in seronegative subjects. Toxoplasmosis is often severe with multivisceral foci; interstitial pneumonia is possible. The serological diagnosis is easy in cases with significant antibody movements, but it may be difficult if the titre is low or stable. The parasitological diagnosis rests on the isolation of toxoplasma in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and cardiac or cerebral biopsy. Immune defence against toxoplasmosis is primarily cellular, with lymphocytosis and inversion of the CD4/CD8 ratio. Macrophages play a crucial role. Interferon-gamma is the major mediator of cellular resistance. In spite of its immunosuppressive action, cyclosporin clearly has an antiparasitic action in vitro and in vivo. A cytomegalovirus infection might facilitate toxoplasma reactivation. Prevention of toxoplasmosis in transplant recipients includes systematic serology of the recipient and, if possible, the donor, detection of mismatched couples and systematic treatment with pyrimethamine of recipients at risk (in seronegative recipients, this drug has reduced the risk from 57 to 14 percent). Cyclosporin should be used as immunosuppressant in preference to other drugs of this kind. Corticosteroids administered in rejections increase the risk of toxoplasmosis.

Miliary tuberculosis with acute respiratory failure and histiocytic hemophagocytosis. Successful treatment with extracorporeal lung support and epipodophyllotoxin VP 16-213

A 14-year-old girl with high fever, dyspnea and bilateral miliary nodules on chest X-ray, developed a rapidly progressive respiratory failure associated with histiocytic hemophagocytosis. Histologic examination of bone marrow biopsy revealed tuberculous granulomas with caseating necrosis. We report a pediatric case in which treatment with extracorporeal lung support and epipodophyllotoxin VP 16-213 was successful.

[Respiratory form mof myasthenia gravis]

BACKGROUND

Extraocular, facial, bulbar and intercostal muscles are frequently affected in juvenile myasthenia gravis, especially during exacerbations. Acetylcholine receptor antibodies are often present in the blood in this type of myasthenic syndrome.

CASE REPORT

A girl presented with an exertional dyspnea at the age of 13 years, that improved after rest. All investigations were negative, except for lung function tests that showed a restrictive pattern. The diagnosis of juvenile myasthenia gravis was finally made at the age of 15 years because of the recurrence of sudden exertional dyspnea and a history of subtle weakness on repetitive movement leading to poor suckling, together with vocal and occasional swallowing difficulties. Dyspnea immediately improved after intravenous injection of 1 mg neostigmine, but the response was transient. No acetylcholine receptor antibody was found and a search for thymoma proved negative. Ambenonium chloride (Mytelase) was effective on clinical exacerbations, but the only improved test after 9 months of treatment was the functional residual capacity.

CONCLUSION

Anticholinesterase drugs must be tried in patients who present exertional dyspnea without bronchopulmonary or cardiac disease on the presumption of myasthenia gravis even when ocular or bulbar manifestations are absent.

[Recurrent bronchopneumopathies in the infant due to swallowing dyspraxia. Two cases]

In two infants with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections starting within a few weeks of birth, dynamic electromyographic studies of sucking and swallowing evidenced a disorder of lingual and pharyngeal activities responsible for the episodes of aspiration. The central location of the anomaly was demonstrated by the absence of peripheral neuromuscular anomalies and by the presence of impaired blinking reflexes and brain stem potential anomalies. These neurofunctional anomalies improved over time and magnetic resonance imaging failed to disclose and structural anomalies of the central nervous system. The occurrence of the swallowing disorder as an isolated manifestation and its long duration, with follow-ups of 23 months and 4 years, are two unique features in these cases. Neurophysiologic investigations are essential for documenting the neurologic etiology of the swallowing disorders, demonstrating their location above or within the medulla oblongata, and differentiating functional and organic anomalies.

[Asthma in infants. Clinical and functional aspects]

BACKGROUND

The incidence of asthma in infancy is rising but its clinical and physiological components remain unclear.

METHODS

A total of 24 infants, aged less than 48 months, in whom the first wheezing episode (WE) appeared before the age of 30 months (mean age: 9 months) underwent clinical examination and pulmonary function tests at least 2 weeks after the last WE.

RESULTS

The mean WE frequency was 1.1 per month and the mean number of admissions for WE was 1.8. 63% of patients showed symptoms between WE and 50% had an allergic profile. There was no evidence of thoracic distension. Bronchial obstruction (BO) occurred in 71% of patients; among these, BO was distal or generalized in 59% and medium or severe in 47%. 12.5% of patients were hypoxemic at testing. BO was less severe in patients treated with theophylline; it was more frequent (87%) in those with symptoms between WE and/or several admissions, and/or admission to the intensive care unit.

CONCLUSION

This study provides additional evidence that infants presenting with asthma at an early age have severe clinical and physiological profiles.

[Value of accelerated hyposensitization with mixed allergens in severe childhood asthma]

The value (in terms of decreased numbers of attacks and of hospitalizations for attacks, decreased need for asthma medications, and improved tolerance to allergens) of rush immunotherapy to a mixture of allergens was studied in children with multiple sensitizations and severe asthma (as evaluated on the number of attacks, number of hospitalizations, and dependence on corticosteroids) already receiving optimal medical therapy. Because syndromic reactions are common, rush immunotherapy should be performed in the hospital and premedication with corticosteroids may be warranted in the most severe cases.

[Mediastino-pulmonary sarcoidosis in children. Clinical study, analysis of data of bronchoalveolar fluid lavage and respiratory function tests, therapeutic trends]

A series of 27 children (mean age: 12 yrs, 5 mos.) presenting with thoracic sarcoidosis is reported. This series, collected from 1961 to 1988 shows the rarity of the disease at that age. However the low rate of asymptomatic forms (22%) suggests that the frequency of the disease is underestimated, as it is not diagnosed. The histological proof is necessary for the diagnosis. When peripheral lesions available for biopsy are lacking, a liver needle biopsy is helpful (93% of positivity). This study shows the frequency of multivisceral types, the intensity of the macrophagic and lymphocytic alveolitis. The therapeutic indications depend on the comparison of the radiological stage, the results of pulmonary function tests (PFT), those of the bronchoalveolar lavages (BAL) and of the serum granulomatous activity markers, especially concerning angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). When present at the beginning of evolution, several risk factors lead to use a corticosteroid treatment: age of onset before 4 years, multivisceral involvement, presence of functional pulmonary signs, delayed diagnosis and onset of treatment, impaired respiratory function (especially concerning the alveolo-capillary diffusion), PMN cells greater than or equal to 2% in the initial BAL, and IgG proteins greater than 4 SD. Thus sarcoidosis in children differs from that seen in adults as it has a more marked evolutive tendency and leaves severe sequelae in one third of patients.

[6 cases of toxoplasmosis in twins]

Studies of congenital toxoplasmosis in twins confirm the definite role of the placenta in the modalities and mechanism of fetal contamination. In single-chorion twin pregnancies, clinical manifestations are generally identical in both infants. Conversely, twins from double-chorion pregnancies usually have different clinical patterns; occasionally, only one of the twins is affected (1 case). The diagnosis can be ascertained antenatally by sampling blood from each of the fetuses (2 cases). The cases reported herein illustrate some of the diagnostic pitfalls that may lead to inappropriate discontinuation of monitoring and treatment: negative placental studies, absence of specific IgM antibodies, transient fall in IgG antibody titers, delayed fetal contamination after a negative fetal blood study, and need for routine tests for increased CSF albumin levels.

[Cystic fibrosis in infants revealed by severe respiratory distress. Mid-term course]

We report the follow-up of 13 infants aged 2.5 to 24 months in whom cystic fibrosis disease presented as respiratory distress. All infants received an intensive treatment. Mean clinical, radiological and microbiological follow-up was 3.1 years. Ten children aged 1.5 to 8.5 years are still alive. One of them presents with serious respiratory failure, with a Shwachman score of 50. The Shwachman score is between 85 and 70 for 8 of 13 and 65 for one. The prognosis of this group did not differ from the one usually observed in the disease. It depends partially on early intensive care management and is not altered by mechanical ventilation.

[Cutaneous reactions to tuberculin and BCG vaccine]

The only available method for quantitative exploration of skin allergy to tuberculin is intradermal injection, since there is no other satisfactory method to evaluate the induration observed. Below 5 mm the induration has no significance. Between 5 and 10 mm it corresponds to an allergic reaction induced by BCG vaccine or by usually inapparent infections due to atypical mycobacteria. A diameter of 10 mm or more suggests either M. tuberculosis infection or allergy to BCG. The intensity of allergic reaction varies under the influence of numerous factors which may be genetic or nutritional, or associated with viral infections, antiviral vaccines and medicinal treatments. Exploring this allergy is of interest on the scores: (1) for epidemiological purposes, to obtain information on the annual risk tuberculosis infection or on the quality of the protection conferred by the vaccine in a given population; (2) for diagnostic purposes, to detect tuberculosis, and especially primary tuberculosis in children; (3) for vaccinal purposes, to determine the limitation of BCG. In subjects who have been vaccinated tuberculosis is rare but remains possible, and in such cases reactions to tuberculin may be difficult or even impossible to interpret.

Alveolar macrophage status in bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The predominant inflammatory cell type within the alveolar structure in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the alveolar macrophage (AM). AM ability to release hydrogen peroxide, a way to evaluate the cell status, was studied in nine infants who developed clinical and radiological evidence of BPD, and was compared to those from infants without lung parenchymal disorders (n = 6). AM were collected by bronchoalveolar lavage which was done after the mechanical ventilation stage in the BPD group. The experiments were performed on unstimulated AM and on AM stimulated by phorbol myristate acetate. Results revealed that the amount of hydrogen peroxide accumulated in the culture medium was significantly enhanced in the BPD group, in both experimental conditions (p less than 0.01 and less than 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, improvement of patients treated with glucocorticoids was closely related to a reduction of the alveolitis with a decrease of AM ability to generate hydrogen peroxide. These data indicate that AM activation is a central component of alveolitis in BPD and that extracellular production of oxidants by stimulated AM may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of the disease.