Real-world hepatitis C prevalence and treatment uptake at opioid agonist therapy clinics in Ontario, Canada

Widespread screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is necessary for Canada to meet its HCV elimination goals by 2030. People who currently or previously injected drugs are at high risk for HCV. Opioid agonist therapy (OAT, such as methadone and buprenorphine) has been shown to help stabilize the lives of people who are opioid-dependent. The distribution of OAT in North America typically requires daily, weekly, or monthly clinic visits and presents an opportunity for engagement, screening and treatment for those at high-risk of HCV. In this study, HCV screening was conducted by staff at OAT clinics in Ontario from 2016 to 2020 and those with chronic infections were treated on-site with direct-acting antivirals. Point-of-care or dried blood spot (DBS) testing was used for antibodies, DBS or serum for HCV RNA and serum for HCV RNA at SVR12 (sustained virological response). Clinics screened 1954 people (mean age 40 years ±12, 63% male). Forty-five percent were antibody positive, of whom 64% were HCV RNA+. Eighty percent of those RNA+ set an appointment in which 99% attended. Ninety-six percent started treatment with 87% completing treatment. Sixty-eight percent of people who completed treatment submitted a sample for SVR12 testing of which 97% achieved a virological cure. Results suggest that HCV screening and treatment at OAT clinics is feasible, effective and warrants expansion. Data suggest strong treatment adherence due to high rates of SVR12 comparable with other OAT-based HCV treatment programs. The lack of SVR12 sampling could be addressed by either on-site phlebotomy or incentivizing SVR12 sampling.

Predictors of Persistent Limp Following Proximal Femoral Varus Osteotomy for Perthes Disease

INTRODUCTION

One of the most popular containment procedures for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) is proximal femur varus osteotomy (PFO). While generally successful in achieving containment, PFO can cause limb length discrepancy, abductor weakness, and (of most concern for families) a persistent limp. While many studies have focused on radiographic outcomes following containment surgery, none have analyzed predictors of this persistent limp. The aim of this study was to determine clinical, radiographic, and surgical risk factors for persistent limp 2 years after PFO in children with LCPD.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected multicenter database was conducted for patients aged 6 to 11 years at disease onset with unilateral early-stage LCPD (Waldenström I) who underwent PFO. Limp status (no, mild, and severe), age, BMI, and pain scores were obtained at initial presentation, 3-month, and 2-year postoperative visits. Preoperative and follow-up radiographs were used to measure traditional morphologic hip metrics including acetabular index (AI), lateral center-edge angle (LCEA), and femoral neck-shaft angle (NSA). Univariate analysis as well as multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze factors associated with mild and severe limp at the 2-year visit.

RESULTS

A total of 95 patients met the inclusion criteria, and of these 50 patients underwent concomitant greater trochanter apophysiodesis (GTA) at the time of PFO. At the 2-year visit, there were 38 patients (40%) with a mild or severe limp. Multivariate logistic regression revealed no significant radiographic factors associated with a persistent limp. However, lower 2-year BMI and undergoing GTA were associated with decreased rates of persistent limp regardless of age (P<0.05). When stratifying by age of disease onset, apophysiodesis appeared to be protective against any severity of limp in patients aged 6 to 8 years old (P= 0.03), but not in patients 8 years or older (P= 0.49).

CONCLUSIONS

Persistent limp following PFO is a frustrating problem that was seen in 40% of patients at 2 years. However, lower follow-up BMI and performing a greater trochanter apophysiodesis, particularly in patients younger than 8 years of age, correlated with a lower risk of postoperative limp.

Two sisters with RSPRY1-related spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia

Biallelic variants in RSPRY1 have been found to result in spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia. Two siblings presenting with short stature, facial dysmorphism, progressive vertebral defects, small epiphysis, cupping and fraying of metaphyses, brachydactyly, and short metatarsals harbored a homozygous missense variant c.1652G>A;p.(Cys551Tyr) in the RSPRY1 gene. The phenotype in our patients resembles spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia, Faden-Alkuraya type. Thus, our study provides further evidence to support the association of RSPRY1 variants with spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia. We observed joint dislocation as a novel clinical feature of this condition.

Indian patients with CHST3-related chondrodysplasia with congenital joint dislocations

CHST3-related chondrodysplasia with congenital joint dislocations (CDCJD, #MIM 143095), is a rare genetic skeletal disorder caused by biallelic loss of function variants in CHST3. CHST3 is critical for the sulfation of chondroitin sulfate. This study delineates the clinical presentation of nine individuals featuring the key symptoms of CDCJD; congenital joint (knee and elbow) dislocations, short trunk short stature progressive vertebral anomalies, and metacarpal shortening. Additional manifestations include irregular distal femoral epiphysis, supernumerary carpal ossification centers, bifid humerus, club foot, and cardiac abnormalities. Sanger sequencing was carried out to investigate molecular etiology in eight patients and exome sequencing in one. Genetic testing revealed five homozygous variants in CHST3 (four were novel and one was previously reported). All these variants are located on sulfotransferase domain of CHST3 protein and were classified as pathogenic/ likely pathogenic. We thus report on nine individuals with CHST3-related chondrodysplasia with congenital joint dislocations from India and suggest monitoring the health of cardiac valves in this condition.

Multi-gene panel sequencing in highly consanguineous families and patients with congenital forms of skeletal dysplasias

Skeletal dysplasias (SKDs) are a heterogeneous group of more than 750 genetic disorders characterized by abnormal development, growth, and maintenance of bones or cartilage in the human skeleton. SKDs are often caused by variants in early patterning genes and in many cases part of multiple malformation syndromes and occur in combination with non-skeletal phenotypes. The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying genetic cause of congenital SKDs in highly consanguineous Pakistani families, as well as in sporadic and familial SKD cases from India using multigene panel sequencing analysis. Therefore, we performed panel sequencing of 386 bone-related genes in 7 highly consanguineous families from Pakistan and 27 cases from India affected with SKDs. In the highly consanguineous families, we were able to identify the underlying genetic cause in five out of seven families, resulting in a diagnostic yield of 71%. Whereas, in the sporadic and familial SKD cases, we identified 12 causative variants, corresponding to a diagnostic yield of 44%. The genetic heterogeneity in our cohorts was very high and we were able to detect various types of variants, including missense, nonsense, and frameshift variants, across multiple genes known to cause different types of SKDs. In conclusion, panel sequencing proved to be a highly effective way to decipher the genetic basis of SKDs in highly consanguineous families as well as sporadic and or familial cases from South Asia. Furthermore, our findings expand the allelic spectrum of skeletal dysplasias.

PRKACA-related, atrial defects-polydactyly-multiple congenital malformation syndrome in an Indian patient

PRKACA-related, atrial defects-polydactyly-multiple congenital malformation syndrome is a recently described skeletal ciliopathy, which is caused by disease-causing variants in PRKACA. The primary phenotypic description includes atrial septal defects, and limb anomalies including polydactyly and short limbs. To date, only four molecularly proven patients have been reported in the literature with a recurrent variant, c.409G>A p.Gly137Arg in PRKACA. In this study, we report the fifth affected individual with the same variant and review the clinical features and radiographic findings of this rare syndrome.

LPIN2 -related Majeed syndrome: report of two Indian patients with novel variants in LPIN2 and review of literature

LPIN2 -related Majeed syndrome (MIM# 609628) is a rare non-inflammasome autoinflammatory disease, caused due to biallelic variants in LPIN2 (MIM* 605519). To date, only 31 individuals from 18 families have been reported with this rare condition. Exome sequencing was done in two affected individuals from two unrelated families. Additionally, phenotypic, and genotypic information from the literature was reviewed. Two novel homozygous missense variants, c.2207G>A p. (Arg736His) and c.1157C>G p. (Ser386Ter) in LPIN2 , were identified in family 1 and family 2 respectively. Chronic recurrent osteomyelitis involving the lower extremities was the most common clinical presentation. LPIN2 -related Majeed syndrome should be considered as a differential diagnosis in an individual with clinical or radiological evidence of recurrent sterile osteomyelitis and chronic anaemia.

Exome Sequencing in Monogenic Forms of Rickets

OBJECTIVE

To understand the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of genetic forms of rickets in 10 families.

METHODS

Detailed clinical, radiographic, and biochemical evaluation of 10 families with phenotypes suggestive of a genetic cause of rickets was performed. Molecular testing using exome sequencing aided in the diagnosis of six different forms of known genetic causes.

RESULTS

Eleven disease-causing variants including five previously reported variants (CYP27B1:c.1319_1325dup, p.(Phe443Profs*24), VDR:c.1171C>T, p.(Arg391Cys), PHEX: c.1586_1586+1del, PHEX: c.1482+5G>C, PHEX: c.58C>T, p.(Arg20*)) and six novel variants (CYP27B1:c.974C>T, p.(Thr325Met), CYP27B1: c.1376G>A, p.(Arg459His), CYP2R1: c.595C>T, p.(Arg199*), CYP2R1:c.1330G>C, p.(Gly444Arg),SLC34A3:c.1336-11_1336-1del, SLC2A2: c.589G>C, p.(Val197Leu)) in the genes known to cause monogenic rickets were identified.

CONCLUSION

The authors hereby report a case series of individuals from India with a molecular diagnosis of rickets and provide the literature review which would help in enhancing the clinical and molecular profile for rapid and differential diagnosis of rickets.

Accuracy of portable ultrasound for obstetric biometry

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the accuracy of two portable ultrasound machines (PUM) in obtaining fetal biometry and estimating gestational age.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Fetal Age Machine Learning Initiative, an observational study of pregnant women in the United States and Zambia. Each participant underwent assessment by an experienced sonographer using both a high-specification ultrasound machine (HSUM) and a PUM (either Butterfly iQ or Clarius C3) to measure fetal biometry and calculate estimated gestational age (EGA) at each visit. Through comparison of paired PUM-HSUM scans, we estimated agreement between individual biometry measurements and aggregate gestational age estimates by reporting mean difference, along with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots, adjusting for trend.

RESULTS

881 participants contributed 1386 paired PUM-HSUM ultrasound studies between April and December 2021. PUM studies included 991 Butterfly and 395 Clarius. Gestational age at scan ranged from 7 to 38 weeks. Compared to HSUM, the Butterfly PUM had a mean difference of -0.20 days (95%CI±0.40) in the 1st trimester and -0.68 days (95%CI±0.68) in the 2nd/3rd trimesters. Also compared to HSUM, the Clarius PUM had a mean difference of 0.47 days (95%CI±0.64) in the 1st trimester and -1.67 days (95%CI±0.43) in the 2nd/3rd trimesters. ICCs were 0.989 or greater throughout. Increasing gestational age was associated with increasing error and absolute error. Both PUM devices demonstrated a modest trend toward underestimation of EGA at advancing gestational ages in 2nd/3rd trimester scans, compared to HSUM.

CONCLUSION

Both the Butterfly iQ and Clarius C3 PUM devices were highly accurate in performing fetal biometry in a diverse population from the US and Zambia. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Clinical, genetic and structural delineation of RPL13-related spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia suggest extra-ribosomal functions of eL13

Spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia with severe short stature, RPL13-related (SEMD-RPL13), MIM#618728), is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by short stature and skeletal changes such as mild spondylar and epimetaphyseal dysplasia affecting primarily the lower limbs. The genetic cause was first reported in 2019 by Le Caignec et al., and six disease-causing variants in the gene coding for a ribosomal protein, RPL13 (NM_000977.3) have been identified to date. This study presents clinical and radiographic data from 12 affected individuals aged 2-64 years from seven unrelated families, showing highly variable manifestations. The affected individuals showed a range from mild to severe short stature, retaining the same radiographic pattern of spondylar- and epi-metaphyseal dysplasia, but with varying severity of the hip and knee deformities. Two new missense variants, c.548 G>A, p.(Arg183His) and c.569 G>T, p.(Arg190Leu), and a previously known splice variant c.477+1G>A were identified, confirming mutational clustering in a highly specific RNA binding motif. Structural analysis and interpretation of the variants' impact on the protein suggests that disruption of extra-ribosomal functions of the protein through binding of mRNA may play a role in the skeletal phenotype of SEMD-RPL13. In addition, we present gonadal and somatic mosaicism for the condition.

Epidemiology, natural evolution, pathogenesis, clinical spectrum, and management of Legg-Calvé-Perthes

Background

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a self-limiting disorder that develops in children following interruption of the blood supply to the capital femoral epiphysis. This review outlines the current knowledge on the epidemiology, natural evolution, clinical spectrum, and management of the disease.

Methods

The literature pertaining to these aspects of the disease were studied and summarized in this review.

Results

Epidemiological studies suggest that environmental factors contribute to the causation of the disease. Incidence rates monitored over time indicate that the incidence of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is declining. The natural evolution followed on sequential plain radiographs enables division of the disease into Stages Ia, Ib, IIa, IIb, IIIa, IIIb, and IV. Reversible deformation of the capital occurs in Stages Ia-IIa simply on standing while irreversible deformation may occur in Stages IIb and IIIa. Treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease in Stages Ia-IIa aims to prevent the femoral head from getting deformed by containment and avoidance of weight-bearing. In Stages IIb and IIIa, treatment aims to remedy the effects of early irreversible deformation of the femoral head. In Stage IIIb and IV, treatment is directed to correcting the altered shape of the femoral head. The impression that these treatment methods are helpful is based on poor quality evidence.

Conclusion

There is an urgent need to undertake Level I studies to establish the efficacy of currently treatment.

Level of evidence

level V.

Deep intronic mutation in CRTAP results in unstable isoforms of the protein to induce type I collagen aggregation in a lethal type of osteogenesis imperfecta type VII

Genetic mutations are involved in Mendelian disorders. Unbuffered intronic mutations in gene variants can generate aberrant splice sites in mutant transcripts, resulting in mutant isoforms of proteins with modulated expression, stability, and function in diseased cells. Here, we identify a deep intronic variant, c.794_1403A>G, in CRTAP by genome sequencing of a male fetus with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) type VII. The mutation introduces cryptic splice sites in intron-3 of CRTAP, resulting in two mature mutant transcripts with cryptic exons. While transcript-1 translates to a truncated isoform (277 amino acids) with thirteen C-terminal non-wild-type amino acids, transcript-2 translates to a wild-type protein sequence, except that this isoform contains an in-frame fusion of non-wild-type twenty-five amino acids in a tetratricopeptide repeat sequence. Both mutant isoforms of CRTAP are unstable due to the presence of a unique 'GWxxI' degron, which finally leads to loss of proline hydroxylation and aggregation of type I collagen. Although type I collagen aggregates undergo autophagy, the overall proteotoxicity resulted in death of the proband cells by senescence. In summary, we present a genetic disease pathomechanism by linking a novel deep intronic mutation in CRTAP to unstable mutant isoforms of the protein in lethal OI type VII.

Imaging characteristics of idiopathic scleroma: a retrospective case series and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic scleroma (previously coined solitary idiopathic choroiditis or focal scleral nodule) is an innocuous lesion affecting the sclera with intraocular manifestations. It is often the basis of many misdiagnoses such as amelanotic choroidal melanoma, osteoma or metastatic lesions. Patients are often asymptomatic and the course is benign. With increasing use of community based imaging, more of such cases are being identified. This paper is a retrospective case series investigating the multi-modal imaging findings of idiopathic scleroma.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data were analysed. Over the course of January 2008-January 2022, 44 patients diagnosed with idiopathic scleroma and imaged with wide-field colour fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, ocular coherence tomography (OCT) and B-scan ultrasonography. Due to a poor image, only 43 images were included for OCT review. We also reviewed our patient's demographics, symptoms and baseline ophthalmic characteristics upon presentation.

RESULTS

The mean age was 52 years (range 32-79) and there was no predilection towards gender. All lesions were post equatorial with the most common location being inferotemporal (n = 16, 36%); 32 lesions (73%) were yellow on fundus photography. 82% (n = 36/44) of lesions exhibited hyperautoflourescence and 43 lesions (98%) showed hyperechogenicity on B-scan ultrasonography. 100% of lesions originated from the sclera with no lesions showing active inflammation. 20 (47%) lesions had associated blood vessels overlying them on OCT.

DISCUSSION

Idiopathic scleroma is a yellow, hyperautofluorescent, hyperechogeneic scleral lesion that has no signs of active inflammation. These characteristics help define them from other more sinister cause of amelanotic fundal lesions.

Genome sequencing identifies a large non-coding region deletion of SNX10 causing autosomal recessive osteopetrosis

Autosomal recessive osteopetrosis (ARO) is a rare genetic disorder caused by impaired osteoclast activity. In this study, we describe a 4-year-old boy with increased bone density due to osteopetrosis, autosomal recessive 8. Using genome sequencing, we identified a large deletion in the 5'-untranslated region (UTR) of SNX10 (sorting nexin 10), where the regulatory region of this gene is located. This large deletion resulted in the absence of the SNX10 transcript and led to abnormal osteoclast activity. SNX10 is one of the nine genes known to cause ARO, shown to interact with V-ATPase (vacuolar type H( + )-ATPase), as it plays an important role in bone resorption. Our study highlights the importance of regulatory regions in the 5'-UTR of SNX10 for its expression while also demonstrating the importance of genome sequencing for detecting large deletion of the regulatory region of SNX10.

Mutant MESD links cellular stress to type I collagen aggregation in osteogenesis imperfecta type XX

Aberrant forms of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident chaperones are implicated in loss of protein quality control in rare diseases. Here we report a novel mutation (p.Asp233Asn) in the ER retention signal of MESD by whole exome sequencing of an individual diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) type XX. While MESDD233N has similar stability and chaperone activity as wild-type MESD, its mislocalization to cytoplasm leads to imbalance of ER proteostasis, resulting in improper folding and aggregation of proteins, including LRP5 and type I collagen. Aggregated LRP5 loses its plasma membrane localization to disrupt the expression of WNT-responsive genes, such as BMP2, BMP4, in proband fibroblasts. We show that MESD is a direct chaperone of pro-α1(I) [COL1A1], and absence of MESDD233N in ER results in cytosolic type I collagen aggregates that remain mostly not secreted. While cytosolic type I collagen aggregates block the intercellular nanotubes, decreased extracellular type I collagen also results in loss of interaction of ITGB1 with type I collagen and weaker attachment of fibroblasts to matrix. Although proband fibroblasts show increased autophagy to degrade the aggregated type I collagen, an overall cellular stress overwhelms the proband fibroblasts. In summary, we present an essential chaperone function of MESD for LRP5 and type I collagen and demonstrating how the D233N mutation in MESD correlates with impaired WNT signaling and proteostasis in OI.

Evaluation of a technique of patellar tendon shortening to correct patella alta associated with severe crouch gait in cerebral palsy

This study was undertaken to evaluate the results of patella tendon shortening to correct patella alta in the context of surgery for the management of severe crouch gait. Our aim was to ascertain whether the corrected position of the patella and improvement of the power of the quadriceps were maintained for 4 years or more. Twenty older children (mean age: 14.2 years) with long-standing crouch gait secondary to cerebral diplegia underwent surgery to correct crouch gait that included the patellar tendon shortening. The technique for plicating the tendon differed for skeletally mature and immature patients. The length of the patellar tendon was measured by the Koshino Index. The strength of the quadriceps muscle was assessed by manual muscle testing and with a dynamometer and extensor lag, if present, was measured with a goniometer. In all 40 knees, the patella was brought to a more distal position and the position was maintained for a mean duration of 84 months (Koshino Index: preoperative 1.3 ± 0.10; 3-month postoperative 0.95 ± 0.05; final follow-up 0.95 ± 0.04). The results were the same for the techniques used for skeletally mature and immature patients. The power of the quadriceps improved [Medical Research Council (MRC) grade 3 to MRC grade 4] and the improvement was maintained. The technique of patella tendon shortening was effective in correcting patella alta and improving quadriceps power. The shortened patellar tendon did not stretch over the period of follow-up. Level of evidence: III.

Biallelic loss-of-function variants in EXOC6B are associated with impaired primary ciliogenesis and cause spondylo-epi-metaphyseal dysplasia with joint laxity type 3

Spondylo-epi-metaphyseal dysplasias with joint laxity, type 3 (SEMDJL3) is a genetic skeletal disorder characterized by multiple joint dislocations, caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the EXOC6B gene. Only four individuals from two families have been reported to have this condition to date. The molecular pathogenesis related to primary ciliogenesis has not been enumerated in subjects with SEMDJL3. In this study, we report two additional affected individuals from unrelated families with biallelic pathogenic variants, c.2122+15447_2197-59588del and c.401T>G in EXOC6B identified by exome sequencing. One of the affected individuals had an intellectual disability and central nervous system anomalies, including hydrocephalus, hypoplastic mesencephalon, and thin corpus callosum. Using the fibroblast cell lines, we demonstrate the primary evidence for the abrogation of exocytosis in an individual with SEMDLJ3 leading to impaired primary ciliogenesis. Osteogenesis differentiation and pathways related to the extracellular matrix were also found to be reduced. Additionally, we provide a review of the clinical and molecular profile of all the mutation-proven patients reported hitherto, thereby further characterizing SEMDJL3. SEMDJL3 with biallelic pathogenic variants in EXOC6B might represent yet another ciliopathy with central nervous system involvement and joint dislocations.

The "Discoid Epiphysis"-An Uncommon Presentation of Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

BACKGROUND

Among a cohort of 402 children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD), 32 children presented with sclerosis and severe collapse of the entire femoral epiphysis that closely resembled a discus.This study was undertaken to identify the characteristics of children with this form of a "discoid epiphysis," compare them with typical LCPD and ascertain the radiologic outcome of their hips when the disease healed.

METHODS

Sequential radiographs of the children were studied to monitor disease evolution. Femoral epiphyseal extrusion was measured on the initial anteroposterior radiograph. Thirty-one of the 32 children were treated with a proximal femoral varus osteotomy and weight-bearing was deferred till the disease reached stage IIIb. The pattern of fragmentation of the epiphysis was noted and the Sphericity Deviation Score (SDS) was computed once the disease healed.

RESULTS

The mean age of children with a discoid epiphysis was 6.81±1.57 years at onset of symptoms while that of children with the typical presentation was 7.54±1.64 years (P<0.017). Perfusion magnetic resonance imaging scans of three children with a discoid epiphysis done in stage Ib of the disease showed that over 95% of the epiphysis was avascular. Femoral head extrusion was frequently present on the initial radiographs (mean Reimer's migration index 27.08±8.7; range: 6.4 to 42.55).In operated children with a discoid epiphysis, the disease evolved typically with fragmentation of the epiphysis followed by reconstitution. The height of the epiphysis was never restored; when the disease healed the mean epiphyseal height was 51.31±10.44% of the normal contralateral epiphysis as compared with 82.46±11.24% in children with typical LCPD (P<0.001).The SDS at healing of operated children with a discoid epiphysis was 14.95±10.86 while the SDS for operated children without a discoid epiphysis was 9.77±11.7 (P<0.019). However, the SDS of children with typical onset LCPD who had Catterall IV involvement and Herring C collapse was 15.25±15.19 (P=0.49 NS).

CONCLUSION

The outcome of treatment of children with a discoid epiphysis is comparable to that of children with typical onset LCPD with Catterall IV (whole-head involvement) and Herring C collapse of the lateral pillar. About a third of these children who undergo early surgical containment may have spherical heads when the disease heals.

Report of three patients, including monozygotic twins and review of clinical and mutation profiles

Steel syndrome (MIM# 615155) is an autosomal recessive skeletal disorder, characterized by dislocations of the hips and radial heads, carpal coalition, short stature, facial dysmorphism, and scoliosis. Until date 47 patients have been reported. However, disease causing variants have been identified only in twenty Puerto Rican and nine non-Puerto Rican families. Here we report two monozygotic twins and a boy from two families with novel missense variants, c.295G > A p.(Ala99 Thr), c.3056C  >  A p.(Pro1019His) and c.2521G > A p.(Gly841Arg) in COL27A1. We describe for the first time, cleft palate and delayed carpal bone ossification as features of Steel syndrome. We reviewed clinical features in all mutation-proven Steel syndrome patients. Short stature and dislocation/subluxation of hip joint are consistently observed. Other features include dislocated radial heads, scoliosis, lordosis, carpal coalition, facial dysmorphism, hearing loss, bilateral fifth finger clinodactyly, knee deformities and developmental delay. Seven missense variants and eight null variants are reported in COL27A1 until date. We also looked into the genotype-phenotype correlation in Puerto Rican and non-Puerto Rican patients.

A systematic review of maternal diabetes and congenital skeletal malformation

The magnitude of association of skeletal anomalies with maternal diabetes is not known. The systemic review was done to detect the frequency of congenital skeletal malformations with diabetes mellitus in pregnancy in the literature evidence of the past 50 years. Literature on maternal diabetes and skeletal malformation was searched by two independent authors by following PRISMA guidelines. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed. After quality assessment, 21 original articles were included. The frequency of congenital malformation, skeletal malformation was extracted from the included studies. 11,574 congenital anomalies were detected diabetic mothers. 1182 skeletal anomalies were noted in 20,11 552 diabetic mothers. The skeletal malformation was noted in 20.4% of total anomalies. The most common skeletal malformation was the defect of the spine (39.9%). The limb deficiency was found in 32.8% of the infants of diabetic mothers. The skeletal malformations were higher, that is, 24.6% in pre-gestational diabetes. The incidence of skeletal malformation from the evidence was 1.5% (range: 0.03-4.27%) in maternal diabetes. Pre-gestation diabetes is more frequently associated with skeletal malformations, which is 1.9% (range: 0.07-5.89%). The association of congenital malformations and skeletal malformations in diabetic pregnancy is significant and hence, effective management of diabetes in childbearing age is essential to reduce this incidence and related long-term morbidity.

A homozygous hypomorphic BNIP1 variant causes an increase in autophagosomes and reduced autophagic flux and results in a spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia

BNIP1 (BCL2 interacting protein 1) is a soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor-attachment protein receptor involved in ER membrane fusion. We identified the homozygous BNIP1 intronic variant c.84+3A>T in the apparently unrelated patients 1 and 2 with disproportionate short stature. Radiographs showed abnormalities affecting both the axial and appendicular skeleton and spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia. We detected ~80% aberrantly spliced BNIP1 pre-mRNAs, reduced BNIP1 mRNA level to ~80%, and BNIP1 protein level reduction by ~50% in patient 1 compared to control fibroblasts. The BNIP1 ortholog in drosophila, Sec. 20, regulates autophagy and lysosomal degradation. We assessed lysosome positioning and identified a decrease in lysosomes in the perinuclear region and an increase in the cell periphery in patient 1 cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy and immunoblotting demonstrated an increase in LC3B-positive structures and LC3B-II levels, respectively, in patient 1 fibroblasts under steady-state condition. Treatment of serum-starved fibroblasts with or without bafilomycin A1 identified significantly decreased autophagic flux in patient 1 cells. Our data suggest a block at the terminal stage of autolysosome formation and/or clearance in patient fibroblasts. BNIP1 together with RAB33B and VPS16, disease genes for Smith-McCort dysplasia 2 and a multisystem disorder with short stature, respectively, highlight the importance of autophagy in skeletal development. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The spectrum of tibial pseudarthrosis with constriction band syndrome in children

Constriction band syndrome (CBS) may be rarely associated with pseudarthrosis of tibia. Published literature includes only case reports. We evaluated the outcome of children with frank pseudarthrosis of the tibia with CBS and compared our results with other reported cases. We aimed to formulate a clinical classification of tibial involvement in CBS on the basis of the treatment guidelines. Seven patients with the presence of one or more constriction bands and radiological signs of tibial pseudarthrosis were included in the study. Eight reported cases of CBS with tibial involvement with management and follow-up details were reviewed. Only two tibial pseudarthrosis united spontaneously after the release of the constriction band. Two patients underwent simultaneous correction of tibial deformity and nailing with band release, one of which needed bone grafting for the pseudarthrosis union. Three patients subsequently needed an excision of tibial pseudarthrosis with nailing to achieve tibial union, two of them had autologous bone grafting along with nailing. Additional procedures were required for the correction of foot deformity and limb length discrepancy. Our findings were similar to the reported cases. The pseudarthrosis of the tibia with CBS does not always heal following band release. Additional surgeries may be required for persistent pseudarthrosis, limb length discrepancy and residual foot deformities. A functional and radiological classification is proposed for the treatment of tibial pseudarthrosis with CBS.

Does the Deformity Index Reliably Predict the Shape of the Femoral Head at Healing of Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease?

BACKGROUND

Treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) aims to preserve the spherical shape of the femoral head. The deformity index (DI) <0.3, measured 2 years from disease onset, is a surrogate measure that predicts that the femoral head will be Stulberg class I or II at skeletal maturity. There is no study that compares the predictive value of DI against a quantitative measure of the shape of the femoral head when the disease heals. We undertook this study to assess the reproducibility of a new method of measurement of DI and see if DI could predict the shape of the femoral head when the disease healed.

METHODS

DI was measured 2 years after disease onset and the Sphericity Deviation Score (SDS) was measured at healing of LCPD on radiographs of 43 children. Reproducibility of measurement was tested. Each healed femoral head was classified as spherical or aspherical based on subjective visual assessment. The DI values were compared with SDS values.

RESULTS

The reproducibility of measurement of SDS was excellent and superior to that of DI. The mean duration of disease was 3.97±0.96 years. Only 17 of 32 hips with DI values <0.3 at 2 years had spherical femoral heads at healing (SDS <10). Three hips with SDS values <10 had DI values >0.3. The positive and negative predictive values of a DI <0.3 in predicting if the femoral head will be spherical (SDS <10) when the disease healed were 53% and 73%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Though DI can be reproducibly measured the predictive value of a DI <0.3, to accurately identify hips that are likely to heal with spherical femoral heads, is not sufficiently high to justify its use as an outcome measure.

Reliability of 3 Radiologic Classifications for the Severity of the Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in Children Older Than 4 Years

BACKGROUND

Tonnis, International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI), and lateral metaphyseal height (LMH) are commonly used classifications for grading the severity of the developmental dysplasia of the hip. The reliability of these classifications is not widely studied in older children. The aim of the study was to evaluate the reliability of these 3 radiologic classifications in children older than 4 years and compared with children younger than 4 years and evaluate the cases with varied inter-rater reliability.

METHODS

A purposeful sample of 40 children with untreated developmental dysplasia of the hip with ages between 6 months to 8 years was studied for the assessment of the severity grading according to all 3 classifications. Six pediatric orthopaedic surgeons classified all hips for all 3 categorical classifications as per the original description. Inter-rater and intrarater reliability was calculated according to the intraclass correlation coefficient. The cases with different ratings were assessed in detail to evaluate the reasons for the varied rating.

RESULTS

The interobserver and intraobserver reliability of all 3 classifications were excellent [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC): 0.935, 0.820, and 0.935 for IHDI, Tonnis, and LMH classification, respectively]. The excellent reliability was also observed in younger and older children. Interobserver reliability of only dysplastic hips (52 hips) was good for Tonnis (ICC: 0.741) and excellent for IHDI (ICC: 0.911) and LMH classification (ICC-0.9). The main reason for the varied rating was because of the varied perception of the superolateral margin of the acetabulum in few hips.

CONCLUSION

The inter-rater and intrarater reliability of all 3 classifications (IHDI, Tonnis, and LMH) is excellent. All classifications can be used till the age of 8 years. The difficulty in selecting the superolateral margin of the acetabulum is a major cause of inter-rater variability.

LEVEL OF STUDY

Level III.

Novel subtype of mucopolysaccharidosis caused by arylsulfatase K (ARSK) deficiency

Background

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are monogenic metabolic disorders that significantly affect the skeleton. Eleven enzyme defects in the lysosomal degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) have been assigned to the known MPS subtypes (I–IX). Arylsulfatase K (ARSK) is a recently characterised lysosomal hydrolase involved in GAG degradation that removes the 2-O-sulfate group from 2-sulfoglucuronate. Knockout of Arsk in mice was consistent with mild storage pathology, but no human phenotype has yet been described.

Methods

In this study, we report four affected individuals of two unrelated consanguineous families with homozygous variants c.250C>T, p.(Arg84Cys) and c.560T>A, p.(Leu187Ter) in ARSK, respectively. Functional consequences of the two ARSK variants were assessed by mutation-specific ARSK constructs derived by site-directed mutagenesis, which were ectopically expressed in HT1080 cells. Urinary GAG excretion was analysed by dimethylene blue and electrophoresis, as well as liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS)/MS analysis.

Results

The phenotypes of the affected individuals include MPS features, such as short stature, coarse facial features and dysostosis multiplex. Reverse phenotyping in two of the four individuals revealed additional cardiac and ophthalmological abnormalities. Mild elevation of dermatan sulfate was detected in the two subjects investigated by LC-MS/MS. Human HT1080 cells expressing the ARSK-Leu187Ter construct exhibited absent protein levels by western blot, and cells with the ARSK-Arg84Cys construct showed markedly reduced enzyme activity in an ARSK-specific enzymatic assay against 2-O-sulfoglucuronate-containing disaccharides as analysed by C18-reversed-phase chromatography followed by MS.

Conclusion

Our work provides a detailed clinical and molecular characterisation of a novel subtype of mucopolysaccharidosis, which we suggest to designate subtype X.

An unusual presentation, novel treatment with Meropenem PMMA beads and complications of Klebsiella osteomyelitis in a healthy adult- A case report

Osteomyelitis caused by Klebsiella Pneumoniae in a healthy adult person is rare. We present an unusual case of Klebsiella Pneumoniae osteomyelitis of both femurs in an immunocompetent adult. The infection was resistant to local debridement and got complicated with pathological fracture, ultimately leading to infected non-union. The challenges faced in the management of sequential complications while treating this atypical osteomyelitis are discussed. Unusual presentation of femur osteomyelitis due to Klebsiella pneumonia can happen in a healthy adult. The Meropenem PMMA beads can be valuable for treating Klebsiella osteomyelitis. Staged procedures might be helpful to improve the condition.

Pseudoachondroplasia: Phenotype and genotype in 11 Indian patients

Pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by rhizomelic short-limbed skeletal dysplasia. The primary clinical and radiographic features include disproportionate dwarfism, joint laxity and hyperextensibility, exaggerated lumbar lordosis, and late ossification of the epiphyses. Identification of disease-causing variants in heterozygous state in COMP establishes the molecular diagnosis of PSACH. We examined 11 families with clinical features suggestive of PSACH. In nine families, we used Sanger sequencing of exons 8-19 of COMP (NM_000095.2) and in two families exome sequencing was used for confirming the diagnosis. We identified 10 de novo variants, including five known variants (c.925G>A, c.976G>A, c.1201G>T, c.1417_1419del, and c.1511G>A) and five variants (c.874T>C, c.1201G>C, c.1309G>A, c.1416_1421delCGACAA, and c.1445A>T) which are not reported outside Indian ethnicity. We hereby report the largest series of individuals with molecular diagnosis of PSACH from India and reiterate the well-known genotype-phenotype corelation in PSACH.

Controversies in the management of pediatric neck femur fractures- a systematic review

Purpose

To review controversies systematically in the management of pediatric neck femur fracture from the literature and to develop consensus for the optimum management.

Methods

Authors searched literature by using keywords of pediatric neck femur fracture, proximal femur fracture, complications, management by following PRISMA guidelines. A common dilemma was listed.

Results

Age, mechanism of injury, fracture type, presentation, treatment method, implant, and nature of complications were compared. Inference from recent literature was extracted for optimum management.

Conclusion

Immediate anatomical reduction with stable fixation must be accomplished. Complications continue to happen despite the best efforts and a longer follow-up is important.

Demographic and Practice Variability Amongst Indian Centres in a Multicentre Prospective Observational Study on Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

BACKGROUND

Since 2017, five Indian centres have enrolled into the International Hip Dysplasia Registry for prospective collection of data on Developmental Dysplasia of Hip (DDH).

AIMS

To assess how baseline patient characteristics and initial treatment modalities differ across these five centres.

METHODS

Registry data collected over 3 years were analyzed. Children with DDH that had radiograph-based diagnoses were included.

RESULTS

Collectively, there were 234 hips (181 patients), of which 218 had undergone surgery. Overall, median age at presentation was 25.3 months (IQR 16.8-46.0); female/male ratio was 2.6:1 (range 1.46-4.75:1); with 42%, 29%, and 29% unilateral left, bilateral and unilateral right hip dislocations respectively. Most were IHDI grade III and IV dislocations (94%). Closed reduction was performed at all but one centre, at median 15.3 months (IQR 9.6-21.1). Open reduction (OR) as a stand-alone procedure was performed at all centres, at median 20.8 months (IQR 15.4-24.9). Combination of OR with a single osteotomy, femoral (FO) or acetabular (AO), was performed at all centres at median 29.7 months (IQR 22.1-43.5). However, for the same age group, three centres exclusively performed FO, whereas the other two exclusively performed AO. The combination of OR with both FO and AO was used at all centres, at median 53.4 months (IQR 42.1-70.8).

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary findings of this multi-centre study indicate similar patient demographics and diagnoses, but important differences in treatment regimens across the five Indian centres. Comparison of treatment regimens, using the 'centre' as a predictive variable, should allow us to identify protocols that give superior outcomes.

Well-differentiated gastroenteropancreatic G3 NET: findings from a large single centre cohort

Neuroendocrine neoplasms are known to have heterogeneous biological behavior. G3 neuroendocrine tumours (NET G3) are characterized by well-differentiated morphology and Ki67 > 20%. The prognosis of this disease is understood to be intermediate between NET G2 and neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC). Clinical management of NET G3 is challenging due to limited data to inform treatment strategies. We describe clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes in a large single centre cohort of patients with gastroenteropancreatic NET G3. Data was reviewed from 26 cases managed at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK, from 2012 to 2019. Most commonly the site of the primary tumour was unknown and majority of cases with identifiable primaries originated in the GI tract. Majority of cases demonstrated somatostatin receptor avidity. Median Ki67 was 30%, and most cases had stage IV disease at diagnosis. Treatment options included surgery, somatostatin analogs (SSA), and chemotherapy with either platinum-based or temozolomide-based regimens. Estimated progression free survival was 4 months following initiation of SSA and 3 months following initiation of chemotherapy. Disease control was observed following treatment in 5/11 patients treated with chemotherapy. Estimated median survival was 19 months; estimated 1 year survival was 60% and estimated 2 year survival was 13%. NET G3 is a heterogeneous group of tumours and patients which commonly have advanced disease at presentation. Prognosis is typically poor, though select cases may respond to treatment with SSA and/or chemotherapy. Further study is needed to compare efficacy of different treatment strategies for this disease.

Structural brain lesions in schizophrenia -magnetic resonance imaging on a mid field magnet

Objectives : The brain damage associated with schizophrenia has been established beyond doubt; however, what remains unexplored is the biological nature of transcultural variations. An important reason for this was the lack of mid and high field scanners in developing countries like India. Material and Methods : We undertook a pilot study using a 0.5 Tesla MRI scanner (General Electric Signa Contour) to explore identifiable structural brain lesions in ten randomly selected individuals with schizophrenia. Results: Nine of the ten participants in the series had structural brain changes. The most common findings were ventricular dilatation and prominent cerebral cortical sulci and cerebellar folia. Additionally non-focal white matter lesions were observed in three patients and small right hippocampus was noted in one participant. Conclusions : The study discusses that establishing structural brain lesions with mid field scanners is indeed feasible. The small study sample and heterogeneity of schizophrenia however made it difficult to establish any definite associations

Clinical and genetic spectrum of 104 Indian families with central nervous system white matter abnormalities

Genetic disorders with predominant central nervous system white matter abnormalities (CNS WMAs), also called leukodystrophies, are heterogeneous entities. We ascertained 117 individuals with CNS WMAs from 104 unrelated families. Targeted genetic testing was carried out in 16 families and 13 of them received a diagnosis. Chromosomal microarray (CMA) was performed for three families and one received a diagnosis. Mendeliome sequencing was used for testing 11 families and all received a diagnosis. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed in 80 families and was diagnostic in 52 (65%). Singleton WES was diagnostic for 50/75 (66.67%) families. Overall, genetic diagnoses were obtained in 77 families (74.03%). Twenty-two of 47 distinct disorders observed in this cohort have not been reported in Indian individuals previously. Notably, disorders of nuclear mitochondrial pathology were most frequent (9 disorders in 20 families). Thirty-seven of 75 (49.33%) disease-causing variants are novel. To sum up, the present cohort describes the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of genetic disorders with CNS WMAs in our population. It demonstrates WES, especially singleton WES, as an efficient tool in the diagnosis of these heterogeneous entities. It also highlights possible founder events and recurrent disease-causing variants in our population and their implications on the testing strategy.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis in a healed Perthes hip

Perthes disease and slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) in the same child is a rare occurrence. A 7-year-old boy with the left hip Perthes' disease was managed with femur osteotomy. The femur head healed with a spherical congruent hip. After 3 years, he developed right tibia vara which was treated with growth modulation. The deformity was corrected after one and a half years. At age of 15 years, he presented with left side painful limp and typical features of SCFE. The left hip was managed with modified Dunn's osteotomy. The hip range of movements was painless and near-normal range at final follow-up. Though this is the first case of ipsilateral SCFE following healed Perthes in a non-syndromic child, one must always consider SCFE in adolescents with hip or knee pain or altered gait, even if they have had other conditions like Perthes disease in the past.

75 Treatment Escalation Plan (TEP) Completion Rates in General Surgery

Background

TEPs ensure every patient has a ceiling of care formally documented, including a DNACPR decision. This pre-empts complications and provides guidance on how to appropriately manage acutely unwell patients. There is no national standard for TEPs. Our aim: to formally document the incidence of TEP completion in general surgery at a local District General Hospital.

Method

A multi-phase, cross-sectional study of 1. Inpatients on three general surgical wards, 2. TEP completion at post-take after a typical on-call cycle.

Results

15.4% of TEPs were completed, of which 75% had a DNARCPR form. For the two post-take ward rounds, 5% and 7.7% of admitted patients had a TEP. Elective surgical/Enhanced recovery patients (ERP) did not have a TEP. Findings were presented locally, and posters placed in the surgical offices. Cycle 2: 19.6% and 10% completion rate for ward and post-take patients, respectively.

Conclusions

TEPs are rarely completed. Minimal improvement in completion rate was noted at cycle 2. TEPs are more commonly completed for patients not for resuscitation. Future aims include editing the surgical clerking proforma and the elective surgery/ERP paperwork to encourage completion, improving patient care. Currently we are arranging similar audits across other NHS trusts to determine if this is a national problem.

Valgus-impacted fracture of neck of femur in a 12-year-old child

Though uncommon, fracture of neck of femur in children is a devastating injury due to the complications it may cause. Treatment depends on the age of the child, the displacement of the fracture and the type of fracture based on Delbet classification. Surgical treatment is indicated in displaced fractures. We report a case of an impacted fracture of neck of femur in a 12-year-old girl. The girl was managed non-operatively. The fracture united uneventfully. An impacted fracture of neck of femur is common in the adult population. To the best of our knowledge, this fracture pattern has not been reported in the paediatric age group.

Comparison of pulmonary vein sizing by transesophageal echocardiogram and by direct angiogram

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Pulmonary vein (PV) anatomy and sizing is important to know before performing PV isolation. This information is conventionally obtained by angiography or by CT scan.

Aim

We undertook this study to identify and measure the PVs during TEE studies and validate these against angiography.

Method

17 consecutive patients due to undergo PV isolation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation were analysed. Using TEE, the PVs were visualised (Upper panel) as follows:  i) From the mid-esophageal four chamber view, the chamber probe was turned to the right at 110-130º for the bicaval view, where the RSPV was seen entering the left atrium adjacent to the SVC. ii) At 0º the SVC was imaged in its short axis, and the probe advanced till the interatrial septum was seen. The angle was changed to 30º to visualise the right inferior PV (RIPV). iii) From the two chamber view (70-90º), the probe was turned to the left and withdrawn to display the left superior PV (LSPV) entering the left atrium parallel to the appendage.iv) Keeping the LSPV in focus, the angle was changed to 135º and the probe advanced till the AV groove, where the left inferior PV (LIPV) was visualised. After transseptal puncture, each PV was cannulated. The PV angiograms were performed in several projections to obtain the best PV profile (lower panel). Using electronic callipers, each PV was measured within 1 cm of its entry into the left atrium, after having received all tributaries. Those PVs were considered for analysis which were measured by both TEE and angiography. The paired ‘T’ test was used to compare the PV diameters by TEE and angiography and the Bland Altman analysis was done to see the level of agreement.

Results

Of a total of 68 PVs, 62 could be adequately visualised by TEE and 50 by angiography. These 50 PVs were measured using both methods. The diameters of the PVs measured by TEE and angiography were not statistically different by the paired t test; LSPV14 ± 1.8 mm v/s 14.4 ± 2.1 mm; RSPV 13 ± 1.8 mm v/s 14.6 ± 3.5 mm; LIPV 11.9 ± 2.1 vs 13.2 ± 2.8 mm and RIPV 10.5 ± 2.7 vs 12.1 ± 2.9 mm. Bland Altman analysis showed most PV sizes estimated by TEE and angiography lay within limits of agreement.

Conclusions

A majority of PVs can be visualised by TEE using a defined protocol. TEE is a good technique to visualise and assess the size of PVs, avoiding the need for contrast medium and radiation.

Abstract Figure. TEE and angiographic images of PVs

Orthopedic manifestation as the presenting symptom of acute lymphoblastic leukemia

INTRODUCTION

The diagnosis of Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is delayed due to vague presentation and normal hematological investigations.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives were to identify the frequency of ALL cases presented to the orthopedic department and with normal hematological investigations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

250 consecutive ALL cases were retrospectively evaluated to identify cases with musculoskeletal manifestations, and laboratory investigations.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (4- vertebral compression fractures, 12- joint pain, 6- bone pain), presented primarily to the orthopedic department. Six patients had a normal peripheral smear.

CONCLUSION

The primary physician should maintain a high index of suspicion despite a normal peripheral smear.

Comparison of plaster-of-Paris casts and Woodcast splints for immobilization of the limb during serial manipulation and casting for idiopathic clubfoot in infants

Aims

The study was undertaken to compare the efficacy of Woodcast splints and plaster-of-Paris casts in maintaining correction following sequential manipulation of idiopathic clubfeet.

Methods

In this randomized prospective trial, 23 idiopathic clubfeet were immobilized with plaster-of-Paris casts and 23 clubfeet were immobilized with a splint made of Woodcast that encircled only two-thirds the circumference of the limb. The number of casts or splints needed to obtain full correction, the frequency of cast or splint-related complications, and the time taken for application and removal of the casts and splints were compared.

Results

The mean number of casts required to obtain full correction of the deformity (Pirani Score 0) was 4.35 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.74 to 4.95) when plaster-of-Paris was used and 4.87 (95% CI 4.33 to 5.41) when the Woodcast splint was used (p = 0.190). The time required for application and removal of the Woodcast splint were significantly less than that required for application and removal of plaster-of-Paris casts (p < 0.001). Woodcast splint-related complications were not more frequent than plaster-of-Paris cast related complications.

Conclusion

Though Woodcast splints covering two-thirds of the circumference of the lower limbs of infants were effective in maintaining the correction of clubfoot deformity during serial manipulation and casting treatment, the superiority of Woodcasts over plaster-of-Paris could not be established. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(10):1399–1404.