Early and late results of open surgical and endovascular treatment of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms, selected according to surgical risk

Background

Open surgical repair (OSR) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) surgery are alternative treatments for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (IRAAA).

Objectives

To compare OSR and EVAR for the treatment of IRAAA.

Methods

119 patients with IRAAA were electively operated by the same surgeon between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2015, following selection for OSR or EVAR according to surgical risk. Complications, reinterventions, failures, and early and late mortality were analyzed.

Results

63 OSR and 56 EVAR patients were analyzed. They were similar in terms of age (70 years), gender (92% men), and average diameter of IRAAA (6.5 cm), but with different comorbidities, surgical risk, and anatomy. EVAR was better than OSR regarding time in the operating theatre (177.5 vs. 233.3 minutes), need for transfusion (25 vs. 73%), and length of stay in ICU (1.3 vs. 3.3 days) and hospital (8.1 vs. 11.1 days). OSR allowed more associated procedures to be conducted simultaneously (19.0 vs. 1.8%). There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to complications (25.4 vs. 25.1%), reinterventions (3.2 vs. 5.2%), or early mortality (1.6 vs. 0%). During follow-up, OSR was associated with fewer revisions (3.13 vs. 4.21), angio-CTs (0.22 vs. 3.23), complications (6.4 vs. 37.5%), reinterventions (3.2 vs. 23.2%), and failures (1.6 vs. 10.7%), and had better survival (78.2 vs. 63.2%).

Conclusions

Correct selection of patients achieves excellent results because it avoids OSR in patients at high risk and avoids EVAR in patients with high anatomical complexity, achieving similar results in the perioperative period, but better results for OSR over the course of follow-up.

C-Reactive protein and SOFA scale: A simple score as early predictor of critical care requirement in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Spain

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential markers at admission predicting the need for critical care in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An approved, observational, retrospective study was conducted between March 15 to April 15, 2020. 150 adult patients aged less than 75 with Charlson comorbidity index ≤6 diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia were included. Seventy-five patients were randomly selected from those admitted to the critical care units (critical care group [CG]) and seventy-five hospitalized patients who did not require critical care (non-critical care group [nCG]) represent the control group. One additional cohort of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 were used to validate the score.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Multivariable regression showed increasing odds of in-hospital critical care associated with increased C-reactive protein (CRP) (odds ratio 1.052 [1.009-1.101]; P = 0.0043) and higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (1.968 [1.389-2.590]; P < 0.0001), both at the time of hospital admission. The AUC-ROC for the combined model was 0.83 (0.76-0.90) (vs AUC-ROC SOFA P < 0.05). The AUC-ROC for the validation cohort was 0.89 (0.82-0.95) (P > 0.05 vs AUC-ROC development).

CONCLUSION

Patients COVID-19 presenting at admission SOFA score ≥ 2 combined with CRP ≥ 9.1 mg/mL could be at high risk to require critical care.

Vascular target organ damage in patients with Philadelphia negative myeloproliferative syndrome: A propensity score analysis

PURPOSE

To assess whether subjects with Philadelphia negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (Ph-MPNs) show differences in the presence of vascular, cardiac or renal target organ damage (TOD) and other vascular function parameters as compared to individuals without this condition.

METHODS

An observational study was conducted. Fifty-seven subjects diagnosed with Ph-MPNs used as cases and 114 subjects without Ph-MPNs as controls. We matched the subjects with and without Ph-MPNs using the propensity scores in a 1:2 ratio using the variables gender, type 2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, hyperlipidaemia and smoking. Vascular, cardiac and renal TOD were established according to the criteria of the European Society of Hypertension and Cardiology guidelines. Arterial stiffness was also assessed using the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI).

RESULTS

Mean age was 63.50±11.70 and 62.90±8.32 years in subjects with and without Ph-MPNs, 32 females (56%) in the first group and 62 (54%) in the second. Subjects with Ph-MPNs have a higher percentage of carotid injury than subjects without Ph-MPNs (35.1% vs. 21.1%) and higher albumin/creatinine ratio. In the logistic regression analysis, subjects with Ph-MPNs had an OR=2.382 (IC95% 1.066-5.323) for carotid injury versus those without haematological disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Subjects with Ph-MPNs have twice the risk of by carotid injury than those without haematological disease.

Elucidating the Mechanism of Action of the Attributed Immunomodulatory Role of Eltrombopag in Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia: An In Silico Approach

Eltrombopag is a thrombopoietin receptor (MPL) agonist approved for the treatment of primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Recent evidence shows that some patients may sustain platelet counts following eltrombopag discontinuation. The systemic immunomodulatory response that resolves ITP in some patients could result from an increase in platelet mass, caused either by the direct action of eltrombopag on megakaryocytes through MPL stimulation, or potential MPL-independent actions on other cell types. To uncover the possible mechanisms of action of eltrombopag, in silico analyses were performed, including a systems biology-based approach, a therapeutic performance mapping system, and structural analyses. Through manual curation of the available bibliography, 56 key proteins were identified and integrated into the ITP interactome analysis. Mathematical models (94.92% mean accuracy) were obtained to elucidate potential MPL-dependent pathways in non-megakaryocytic cell subtypes. In addition to the effects on megakaryocytes and platelet numbers, the results were consistent with MPL-mediated effects on other cells, which could involve interferon-gamma, transforming growth factor-beta, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma, and forkhead box protein P3 pathways. Structural analyses indicated that effects on three apoptosis-related proteins (BCL2L1, BCL2, BAX) from the Bcl-2 family may be off-target effects of eltrombopag. In conclusion, this study proposes new hypotheses regarding the immunomodulatory functions of eltrombopag in patients with ITP.

C-Reactive protein and SOFA scale: A simple score as early predictor of critical care requirement in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Spain

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential markers at admission predicting the need for critical care in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An approved, observational, retrospective study was conducted between March 15 to April 15, 2020. 150 adult patients aged less than 75 with Charlson comorbidity index ≤6 diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia were included. Seventy-five patients were randomly selected from those admitted to the critical care units (critical care group [CG]) and seventy-five hospitalized patients who did not require critical care (non-critical care group [nCG]) represent the control group. One additional cohort of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 were used to validate the score.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Multivariable regression showed increasing odds of in-hospital critical care associated with increased C-reactive protein (CRP) (odds ratio 1.052 [1.009-1.101]; P=.0043) and higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (1.968 [1.389-2.590]; P<.0001), both at the time of hospital admission. The AUC-ROC for the combined model was 0.83 (0.76-0.90) (vs AUC-ROC SOFA P<.05). The AUC-ROC for the validation cohort was 0.89 (0.82-0.95) (P>0.05 vs AUC-ROC development).

CONCLUSION

Patients COVID-19 presenting at admission SOFA score ≥2 combined with CRP ≥9,1mg/mL could be at high risk to require critical care.

Kinking graft—an exceptional late complication of axillofemoral bypass grafting

The axillary-femoral bypass is an extra-anatomical arterial reconstruction technique whose indications and complications have been thoroughly discussed in the literature. Shortening or lengthening of the prosthesis (by axillary artery traction or graft angulation, respectively) as a late postoperative complication of the procedure has been described only exceptionally. Here we report a kinking of the prosthesis with a very illustrative figure.

Simple and complex carotid paragangliomas. Three decades of experience and literature review

BACKGROUND

Carotid paragangliomas are rare tumors. They are usually unique, non-secreting, resectable, and benign. However, additional rare cases of complex tumors (bilateral, secretory, nonresectable, or malignant) complicate the management and final outcomes.

METHODS

Records of paragangliomas from our hospital are reviewed. Criteria defining complex paragangliomas have been previously defined. These are compared with those of the simple group.

RESULTS

Fifty patients, two groups: simple (n = 39) and complex (n = 11). The patients in the complex group were significantly younger (47.7 vs 63.8 years). Postoperative nerve complications (45.4% vs 6.3%) and mortality during follow-up (27.3% vs 0%) were significantly more common in the complex group. Vascular complications (0% vs 3.1%) and early mortality (0%) were similarly in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with complex carotid paragangliomas are heterogeneous. The former are younger, exhibit a high degree of diagnostic and therapeutic complexity, and have poorer morbidity and mortality. Surgical experience and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential.

Decision-making and therapeutic options in intact splenic artery aneurysms: single-center experience and literature review

BACKGROUND

Splenic artery aneurysms are rare, potentially serious, and usually asymptomatic. Several methods are currently available to treat them, each with their own advantages and drawbacks. Therefore, its therapeutic paradigm has changed.

METHODS

We review our database of splenic aneurysms (2009-2019) and undertake an exhaustive literature review. Demographic, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic, early and follow-up outcome data were examined. Our experience comprised: 15 patients with 19 splenic aneurysms. 11 women (average age, 59.4 years) and 4 men (average age, 61.7 years). All asymptomatic.

RESULTS

At diagnosis, aneurysms had a mean cross-sectional diameter of 3.4 cm (3.2 and 3.9 for women and men, respectively), the largest measuring 8.5 cm. Two independent aneurysms were detected in four patients. Diagnoses were always incidental to a CT scan. Treatments consisted of open surgery (2 patients), endovascular surgery (10 patients: 7 embolizations, 3 covered stent) and observation/follow-up (3 patients). The cases of open surgery (with splenectomy) were carried out without postoperative morbidity. One embolization failed (requiring subsequent open surgery) and two suffered localized splenic infarction, but without further complications. In patients treated with a covered stent, the aneurysm was always excluded, without complications. There was no 30-day or follow-up (average 26.2 months) mortality. Splenic aneurysms are diagnosed more frequently and earlier (in the asymptomatic phase), albeit incidentally, than in the past.

CONCLUSIONS

The correct indication (identifying patients at risk) and individualization of treatment, in which endovascular techniques are the first-line option, have significantly improved morbidity and mortality outcomes in our hospital.

Spontaneous rupture of a mechanical valve in a mitral position (On-X) with migration-embolization to aortic bifurcation from the perspective of the vascular surgeon

We report on the case of spontaneous rupture of an On-X-pure pyrolytic carbon mechanical valve prosthesis implanted seven years earlier, in a mitral position, at our hospital. The patient was admitted with valvular dysfunction and acute pulmonary edema requiring emergency surgery (prosthesis replacement); the absence of a leaflet was confirmed intraoperatively. The patient presented severe respiratory failure, which prolonged the postoperative period. A CT scan showed that the migrated leaflet was located in the aortic bifurcation with no apparent arterial lesion. Four months later, once the patient had recovered, laparotomy and aortotomy were performed in order to retrieve the leaflet, which was found to have become included (neoendothelized) in the aortic wall without compromising the latter's integrity or obstructing the blood flow. A subsequent CT scan confirmed the persistence of the leaflet in its initial position. The literature review highlights two singular facts: 1) this is the second published case of the escape of a leaflet from an On-X prosthesis (the first patient died); 2) this is the first case in which a laparotomy was performed to retrieve the leaflet but finally a decision was made to leave it in situ. Seven months later, the patient remained asymptomatic.

Identification of 58 Mutations (26 Novel) in 94 of 109 Symptomatic Spanish Probands with Protein C Deficiency

Presently, no data on the molecular basis of hereditary protein C (PC) deficiency in Spain is available. We analyzed the PC gene (PROC) in 109 patients with symptomatic PC deficiency and in 342 relatives by sequencing the 9 PROC exons and their flanking intron regions. In 93 probands, we found 58 different mutations (26 novel). Thirty-seven consisted of a nucleotide change, mainly missense mutations, 1 was a 6-nucleotide insertion causing the duplication of 2 amino acids, and 4 were deletions of 1, 3, 4, and 16 nucleotides. Nine mutations caused type II deficiencies, with the presence of normal antigen levels but reduced anticoagulant activity. Using a PC level of 70% as lowest normal limit, we found no mutations in 16 probands and 25 relatives with PC levels ≤ 70%. On the contrary, 4 probands and 12 relatives with PC levels > 70% carried the mutation identified in the proband. The spectrum of recurrent mutations in Spain is different from that found in the Netherlands, where the most frequent mutations were p.Gln174* and p.Arg272Cys, and is more similar to that found in France, where the most frequent were p.Arg220Gln and p.Pro210Leu. In our study, p.Val339Met (9 families), p.Tyr166Cys (7), p.Arg220Gln (6), and p.Glu58Lys (5) were the most prevalent. This study confirms the considerable heterogeneity of the genetic abnormality in PC deficiencies, and allowed genetic counseling to those individuals whose PC levels were close to the lower limit of the normal reference range.

Switching thrombopoietin receptor agonist treatments in patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a bleeding disorder that conventionally has been treated with steroids or other immunosuppressive treatments. The introduction of thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs), which increase platelet production, dramatically changed the treatment landscape for ITP by providing patients with well-tolerated, long-term treatment options. Two TPO-RAs, eltrombopag and romiplostim, have been approved in the United States and European Union for the treatment of ITP. Some patients do not benefit from the first TPO-RA they receive, so it is assumed that the alternate TPO-RA would have the same outcome. However, eltrombopag and romiplostim have distinct pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties and may have different tolerability and efficacy in individual patients with ITP. Published retrospective studies showed that >75% of patients who switched to the alternate TPO-RA maintained or achieved a response with the new treatment. Notably, most patients who switched due to lack of efficacy with the first TPO-RA responded to the alternate TPO-RA, which demonstrates an absence of cross-resistance between the two drugs. Therefore, switching to the alternate TPO-RA if the first TPO-RA fails to demonstrate a response should be considered before the use of a less-preferable option.

Introducing high-throughput sequencing into mainstream genetic diagnosis practice in inherited platelet disorders

Inherited platelet disorders are a heterogeneous group of rare diseases, caused by inherited defects in platelet production and/or function. Their genetic diagnosis would benefit clinical care, prognosis and preventative treatments. Until recently, this diagnosis has usually been performed via Sanger sequencing of a limited number of candidate genes. High-throughput sequencing is revolutionizing the genetic diagnosis of diseases, including bleeding disorders. We have designed a novel high-throughput sequencing platform to investigate the unknown molecular pathology in a cohort of 82 patients with inherited platelet disorders. Thirty-four (41.5%) patients presented with a phenotype strongly indicative of a particular type of platelet disorder. The other patients had clinical bleeding indicative of platelet dysfunction, but with no identifiable features. The high-throughput sequencing test enabled a molecular diagnosis in 70% of these patients. This sensitivity increased to 90% among patients suspected of having a defined platelet disorder. We found 57 different candidate variants in 28 genes, of which 70% had not previously been described. Following consensus guidelines, we qualified 68.4% and 26.3% of the candidate variants as being pathogenic and likely pathogenic, respectively. In addition to establishing definitive diagnoses of well-known inherited platelet disorders, high-throughput sequencing also identified rarer disorders such as sitosterolemia, filamin and actinin deficiencies, and G protein-coupled receptor defects. This included disease-causing variants in DIAPH1 (n=2) and RASGRP2 (n=3). Our study reinforces the feasibility of introducing high-throughput sequencing technology into the mainstream laboratory for the genetic diagnostic practice in inherited platelet disorders.

Two novel variants of the ABCG5 gene cause xanthelasmas and macrothrombocytopenia: a brief review of hematologic abnormalities of sitosterolemia

Essentials Diagnosis of sitosterolemia, a rare recessive or syndromic disorder, is usually delayed. Peripheral blood smear is extremely useful for establishing the suspicion of sitosterolemia. High-throughput sequencing technology enables the molecular diagnosis of inherited thrombocytopenias. Accurate characterization of sitosterolemia helps us determine appropriate management.

SUMMARY

Background Sitosterolemia (STSL) is a recessive inherited disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes. Increased levels of plasma plant sterols (PSs) usually result in xanthomas and premature coronary atherosclerosis, although hematologic abnormalities may occasionally be present. This clinical picture is unfamiliar to many physicians, and patients may be at high risk of misdiagnosis. Objectives To report two novel ABCG5 variants causing STSL in a Spanish patient, and review the clinical and mutational landscape of STSL. Patient/Methods A 46-year-old female was referred to us with lifelong macrothrombocytopenia. She showed familial hypercholesterolemia-related xanthomas. Molecular analysis was performed with high-throughput sequencing. Plasma PS levels were evaluated with gas-liquid chromatography. The STSL landscape was reviewed with respect to specific online databases and all reports published since 1974. Results A blood smear revealed giant platelets and stomatocytes. Novel compound heterozygous variants were detected in exons 7 (c.914C>G) and 13 (c.1890delT) of ABCG5. The patient showed an increased plasma level of sitosterol. These findings support the diagnosis of STSL. In our review, we identified only 25 unrelated STLS patients who presented with hematologic abnormalities including macrothrombocytopenia. It remains unknown why only some patients develop hematologic abnormalities. Conclusions This is the first Spanish STSL patient to be reported and molecularly characterized. The early diagnosis of STLS is strongly supported by the presence of stomatocytes in blood smears. The definitive diagnosis of STSL by measurement of serum PS levels and molecular analyses prompted the use of ezetimibe therapy.

Use of eltrombopag for secondary immune thrombocytopenia in clinical practice

Eltrombopag is a second-line treatment in primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). However, its role in secondary ITP is unknown. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of eltrombopag in secondary ITP in daily clinical practice. Eighty-seven secondary ITP patients (46 with ITP secondary to autoimmune syndromes, 23 with ITP secondary to a neoplastic disease subtype: lymphoproliferative disorders [LPDs] and 18 with ITP secondary to viral infections) who had been treated with eltrombopag were retrospectively evaluated. Forty-four patients (38%) had a platelet response, including 40 (35%) with complete responses. Median time to platelet response was 15 days (95% confidence interval, 7-28 days), and was longer in the LPD-ITP group. Platelet response rate was significantly lower in the LPD-ITP than in other groups. However, having achieved response, there were no significant differences between the durable response of the groups. Forty-three patients (49·4%) experienced adverse events (mainly grade 1-2), the commonest being hepatobiliary laboratory abnormalities. There were 10 deaths in this case series, all of which were related to pre-existing medical conditions. In routine clinical practice, eltrombopag is effective and well-tolerated in unselected patients with ITP secondary to both immune and infectious disorders. However, the response rate in LPD-ITP is low.

Identification of new markers of recurrence in patients with unprovoked deep vein thrombosis by gene expression profiling: the retro study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess differences in the gene expression profile of peripheral blood cells between patients with early recurrent thrombosis vs. patients without recurrent events after withdrawal of anticoagulant therapy for a first episode of unprovoked deep vein thrombosis (uDVT), to identify novel predictors of recurrence.

METHODS

In the discovery population (N = 32), a microarray RNA assay followed by RT-PCR confirmation were performed. In the validation population (N = 44) a multiple RT-PCR-based strategy was applied to assess genes differentially expressed in the discovery population.

RESULTS

The sex-adjusted Linear Model for Microarray Data analysis showed 102 genes differentially expressed (P < 0.01) in the discovery population. Nineteen of them underwent further confirmation in the validation population. The gene encoding for Acyl-CoA Synthetase Family Member 2 (ACSF2) was underexpressed in recurrent DVT patients in both, the discovery (P = 0.007) and validation populations (P = 0.004). In the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis, the areas under the curve of ACSF2 expression were 0.77 and 0.80, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time an association between ACSF2 expression and the risk of recurrent DVT is suggested. Should this association be confirmed in larger prospective studies, ACSF2 could become useful for the selection of patients requiring extended anticoagulant therapy.

Relative value of the Ankle-Brachial Index of intermittent claudication

INTRODUCTION

The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) makes it possible to identify patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Intermittent claudication (IC) is the first major symptom of PAD, although many patients with an ABI ≤ 0.9 do not exhibit IC, and the range of ABI among those who do have IC is very variable. This study evaluates the correlation between ABI and the perception (symptomatology) of claudicant patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An observational, cross-sectional and multicentre, study of 920 patients with IC. Clinical history, ABI, Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) and European Quality of Life Questionnaire (EQ-5D) were recorded. Associations were analysed using Spearman's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean ABI of the series was 0.63 (SD = 0.19). The mean WIQ-distance was 34.07 (SD = 26.77), values being smaller for lower ABI values (r = 0.343, p < 0.001). The mean EQ-5D score of the series was 0.58 (SD = 0.21), also showing lower values as the ABI decreased (r = 0.278, p < 0.001). The correlations of WIQ and EQ-5D with ABI were statistically significant in both cases, but always less than 0.400 (between 0.278 and 0.343).

CONCLUSIONS

The correlations of ABI with the questionnaires of walking capacity and quality of life are weak. For this reason, although in clinical practice the ABI of CI patients is commonly measured, decisions should not be taken during the development of IC exclusively on the basis of the ABI.

Diabetes mellitus and intermittent claudication: a cross-sectional study of 920 claudicants

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and intermittent claudication (IC) are frequently associated health conditions. Our hypothesis is that the nature, severity and quality of life (QoL) of patients with IC and DM are worse than those of claudicant patients without diabetes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An observational, cross-sectional and multicentre study of 920 patients with IC, divided into two groups: diabetic (n = 477) and non-diabetic (n = 443). For each group, we examined clinical and biological characteristics (including levels of glucose and lipids), the ankle-brachial index (ABI), responses to the Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) and the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Compared with claudicant patients without diabetes, claudicants with diabetes were older (p < 0.001), more likely to be female (p = 0.006), with a higher BMI (p < 0.001), more likely to have a sedentary lifestyle (p < 0.001) and to be a non-smoker (p < 0.001). Claudicant patients with diabetes also had significantly more cardiovascular risk factors (p < 0.001), more frequent ischaemic cardiopathy (p = 0.023) and chronic renal failure (p = 0.002), and fewer prior ictus events (p = 0.003). No significant differences between groups were found with respect to blood pressure, levels of cholesterol or triglycerides. The mean ABI of diabetic-IC patients was slightly lower than IC patients without diabetes (p = 0.016). All WIQ subdomains scores were significantly lower (p < 0.001), indicating poorer walking ability, in claudicant and diabetic patients with compared with those without diabetes. The mean E5-QD global scores and the mean EQ-5D visual analogue scale in the whole series were 0.58 (SD = 0.21) and 55.04 (SD = 21.30), respectively. Both E5-QD scores were significantly lower, indicating poorer QoL, in claudicant patients with diabetes than claudicant patients without diabetes (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients with IC and DM had more risk cardiovascular factors, cardiovascular conditions, disability and worse haemodynamic status and QoL than claudicant patients without diabetes.

Validation of the Walking Impairment Questionnaire for Spanish patients

Background: The Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) is a short, easy to complete, disease-specific questionnaire to assess intermittent claudication. A Spanish version of the WIQ for Hispanic Americans has recently been validated in Texas, but it needs to be validated for European Spanish people. Patients and methods: After translation and cultural adaptation of the WIQ, 920 patients with intermittent claudication (ankle brachial index < 0.9) completed two questionnaires (Spanish version of the WIQ and European Quality of Life 5 Dimension [EQ-5D]). The validity of the WIQ was determined by correlating WIQ and EQ-5D. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were determined using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha, respectively. Results: The three domains of the WIQ were moderately correlated with the EQ-5D health outcome (r = 0.54 to 0.60; p < 0.001). Test-retest reliabilities ranged from ICC = 0.89 to 0.91 and internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.92) was high. Conclusions: The Spanish version of the WIQ for European Spanish patients was valid and reproducible, suggesting that it could be used in Spanish patients with intermittent claudication.

Quality of life in patients with chronic venous disease: influence of the socio-demographical and clinical factors

AIM

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a well-defined and known disorder which impact on related-health quality of life (QoL). However, individuals factors which determinate quality of life on CVD are not well defined. The purposes of this study were to describe the QoL in patients with CVD and examine socio-demographical and clinical factors which influence QoL METHODS: One thousand five hundred sixty patients with CVD were evaluated. We calculated for each patient two disease-specific severity scores: The "C" grade (clinical) of the CEAP classification and the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS). Additionally, two QoL questionnaires were recorded: Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) and Chronic Lower Limb Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20). Two multivariate logistic regression analyses (SF-12 and CIVIQ-20 model) were conducted to determine whether demographic and clinical variables were independently associated with QoL.

RESULTS

Both QoL questionnaires indicated that the QoL decreased significantly (P<0.05) as the C grade of CEAP increased. Each increase of 0.10 in VCSS score represented 2% worsening in QoL as measured by CIVIQ-20. Three factors were strongly associated with poor QoL on SF-12: increasing age, prior superficial venous thrombosis (SVT) or prior deep venous thrombosis. In the specific disease CIVIQ-20 questionnaire three factors (higher age, prior SVT and higher weight) were strongly associated with decrease QoL.

CONCLUSION

Increasing disease severity by VCSS is associated with reductions in QoL. Subgroup analysis indicates that there are several significant individual determinants of worsening QoL.

Venous leg ulcer in the context of chronic venous disease

Objectives

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a frequent disorder with a high socioeconomic impact. Little is known about the possible differences between healed ulcer (C5 group) and active ulcer (C6 group) in terms of disease severity and quality of life (QoL). Our aim was to determine the possible differences in severity disease and QoL between the C5–C6 and C1 (control) group.

Methods

Data from a national, multicentre, observational and cross-sectional study ( n = 1598) were used to compare three groups of CVD: C1 ( n = 243), C5 ( n = 136) and C6 ( n = 70). CVD severity was assessed with the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and QoL with the Short Form 12 Health Survey (SF-12) and Chronic Lower Limb Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20).

Results

Patients with active ulcers had a higher mean total VCSS than patients with healed ulcers ( P < 0.05). Both SF-12 and CIVIQ-20 QoL questionnaires indicated a poorer QoL in patients with ulcers than in those with C1 ( P < 0.05). Compared with the C5 group, patients with active ulcers (C6) had lower QoL scores, but the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Patients with venous leg ulcers (C5–C6) are associated with high severity and poor QoL. However, the healing of a leg ulcer did not contribute to improvement of QoL.

C3G transgenic mouse models with specific expression in platelets reveal a new role for C3G in platelet clotting through its GEF activity

We have generated mouse transgenic lineages for C3G (tgC3G) and C3GΔCat (tgC3GΔCat, C3G mutant lacking the GEF domain), where the transgenes are expressed under the control of the megakaryocyte and platelet specific PF4 (platelet factor 4) gene promoter. Transgenic platelet activity has been analyzed through in vivo and in vitro approaches, including bleeding time, aggregation assays and flow cytometry. Both transgenes are expressed (RNA and protein) in purified platelets and megakaryocytes and do not modify the number of platelets in peripheral blood. Transgenic C3G animals showed bleeding times significantly shorter than control animals, while tgC3GΔCat mice presented a remarkable bleeding diathesis as compared to their control siblings. Accordingly, platelets from tgC3G mice showed stronger activation in response to platelet agonists such as thrombin, PMA, ADP or collagen than control platelets, while those from tgC3GΔCat animals had a lower response. In addition, we present data indicating that C3G is a mediator in the PKC pathway leading to Rap1 activation. Remarkably, a significant percentage of tgC3G mice presented a higher level of neutrophils than their control siblings. These results indicate that C3G plays an important role in platelet clotting through a mechanism involving its GEF activity and suggest that it might be also involved in neutrophil development.

Better prognosis for patients with del(7q) than for patients with monosomy 7 in myelodysplastic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Abnormalities involving chromosome 7 are frequent in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and suggest a poor prognosis.

METHODS

The authors examined the hypothesis that the clinical features and survival associated with isolated deletion (del) of part of the long arm of chromosome 7 (7q) in MDS are different from those associated with isolated monosomy 7 (complete loss of chromosome 7). In total, 133 patients with a diagnosis of de novo MDS (according to the World Health Organization [WHO] classification) and chromosome 7 abnormalities in the Spanish MDS Registry were evaluated retrospectively. Four karyotypic groups were identified: isolated del(7q) (n = 29), isolated monosomy 7 (n = 27), del(7q) with additional abnormalities (n = 24), and monosomy 7 with additional abnormalities (n = 53).

RESULTS

Isolated del(7q) was more frequent in patients with less advanced MDS according to the WHO classification or the International Prognostic Scoring System. In addition, isolated del(7q) was associated with fewer blasts in bone marrow than other cytogenetics groups. Survival was significantly superior in patients with isolated del(7) than in those with isolated monosomy 7, del(7q) with additional abnormalities, or monosomy 7 with additional abnormalities. On multivariate analysis, age, the percentage of blasts in bone marrow, and other chromosome 7 abnormalities apart from isolated del(7q) were identified as independent risk factors for survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results demonstrated that patients who had MDS with isolated del(7q) had some distinct clinical-pathologic characteristics as well as better survival than patients who had MDS with isolated monosomy 7.

Darbepoetin alfa for anemia in patients with low or intermediate-1 risk myelodysplastic syndromes and positive predictive factors of response

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines support the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents for the treatment of anemia associated with low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

DESIGN AND METHODS

Single-arm, open-label, multi-center, phase 2 trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of darbepoetin alfa (DA) in patients with low or intermediate-risk MDS, hemoglobin <100 g/L, erythropoietin (EPO) levels <500 IU/L and transfusion requirements <2 units/month over the preceding 2 months. Erythroid response (major [MaR] or minor [MiR]) and fatigue (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Fatigue [FACT-F]) were evaluated at 8, 16 and 24 weeks. DA was initiated at 300 μg weekly. For patients who did not achieve MaR by 8 weeks, filgrastim 300 μg weekly was added.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01039350.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients (72.7% transfusion independent) were included. Median age was 76.0 years (range 41.3-92.4), 54.5% were male, and 90.9% presented ECOG Status (0-1). Eighteen patients received filgrastim. An erythroid response was achieved by 31 of 44 patients (70.5%) at week 8 (47.7% MaR, 22.7% MiR), 31 of 44 patients (70.5%) at week 16 (61.4% MaR, 9.1% MiR), and 32 of 44 patients (72.7%) at week 24 (61.3% MaR, 11.4% MiR). Mean (95% CI) change in FACT-F at week 24 was 3.61 (0.72 to 6.51). Baseline EPO levels <100 IU/L were a predictive factor of response. DA was well tolerated. Four mild (two iron deficiencies, flu syndrome and headache) and one fatal (thromboembolic event) adverse events were considered related to darbepoetin alfa.

CONCLUSIONS

A fixed dose of 300 μg of darbepoetin alfa weekly (with or without filgrastim) seems to be an effective and safe treatment for anemic patients with low or intermediate-risk MDS, low transfusion burden and EPO levels <500 IU/L. Results may not be extrapolable to unselected MDS patients.

CD34?+ cell dose and outcome of patients undergoing reduced-intensity-conditioning allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

While in bone marrow allogeneic transplantation the infusion of high doses of progenitor stem cells has a favourable impact on outcome, due to a faster hematopoietic and immune recovery, in the peripheral blood allo-setting the infusion of a high number of CD34 cells increases the risk of extensive chronic graft vs. host disease (cGVHD). This higher incidence of extensive cGVHD has an adverse impact on outcome due to a higher transplant related mortality, specially among patients receiving T-cell depleted allogeneic transplantation with myeloablative conditioning. By contrast, patients undergoing reduced intensity conditioning regimen may benefit from increasing higher CD34 + cell doses, especially those categorized as high risk according to disease status at transplant. Thus, the source of progenitors cells, type of conditioning and GVHD prophylaxis, among other factors, may influence the effect of the progenitor cell dose on outcome after allogeneic transplant.

Peripheral endothelial progenitor cells (CD133 +) for therapeutic vasculogenesis in a patient with critical limb ischemia. One year follow-up

We present a patient with critical limb ischemia who was successfully treated with the injection of autologous peripheral blood (PB) CD133+ purified stem cells (SC) into the gastrocnemius muscle. No serious adverse events related to G-CSF administration, mononuclear cells harvest or CD133+ SC administration was observed. After 17 months of follow-up, our patient has experienced limb salvage, symptomatic relief and functional improvement. Moreover, we have observed the appearance of flow in the right posterior tibial artery that was absent before the procedure. To our knowledge, this is the first case of critical limb ischemia treated with PB CD133+ SC.

Quality of life assessment in patients undergoing reduced intensity conditioning allogeneic as compared to autologous transplantation: results of a prospective study

The aim was to analyze quality-of-life (QOL) during the first year post transplant in 47 patients undergoing reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) allotransplantation, and to compare these with a similar subgroup of patients receiving autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). We used self-reported questionnaires. Each answer scored from 0 (not at all) to 4 (very much), with higher scores indicating worse functioning. Mean value of physical categories among RIC transplants ranged between 1.23 and 0.77 indicating that patients scored very low for physical symptoms. Patients undergoing ASCT had higher scores in questionnaires performed early after transplant and then gradually improved (P < 0.001). Overall, when we compared physical functioning scores, allo-RIC did significantly better (P = 0.049). Nevertheless, while allo-RIC scores were significantly better for the first three questionnaires, ASCT patients did better in the last two questionnaires. These findings are in accordance with the toxicities observed in both subgroups which are lower in the RIC group early after transplant. No significant differences were observed between either subgroup for any of the functional, social/ family, psychological distress and satisfaction with doctor/nurse relationship items. We have observed similar QOL among patients undergoing RIC-allo as compared to ASCT although GVHD remains an important 'event' in QOL.

The oral combination of thalidomide, cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone (ThaCyDex) is effective in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

We evaluate the efficacy of the oral combination of thalidomide, cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone (ThaCyDex) in 71 refractory/relapsed multiple myeloma patients, including a prognostic analysis to predict both response and survival. Patients received thalidomide at escalating doses (200-800 mg/day), daily cyclophosphamide (50 mg/day) and pulsed dexamethasone (40 mg/day, 4 days every 3 weeks). On an intention-to-treat basis and using the EBMT response criteria, 2% patients reached complete response (CR), 55% partial response (PR) and 26% minor response (MR) yielding a total response (CR+PR+MR) rate of 83% after 3 months of therapy. After 6 months of therapy, responses were maintained including a 10% CR. The 2-year progression free and overall survival were 57 and 66%, respectively. A favorable response was associated with beta2 microglobulin < or =4 mg/dl, platelets >80 x 10(9)/l and nonrefractory disease. Regarding survival, low beta2 microglobulin (< or =4 mg/dl), age (< or =65 years) and absence of extramedullary myelomatous lesion were associated with a longer survival. Major adverse effects included constipation (24%), somnolence (18%), fatigue (17%) and infection (13%). Only 7% of patients developed a thrombo-embolic event. ThaCyDex is an oral regimen that induces a high response rate and long remissions, particularly in relapsing patients with beta2 microglobulin < or =4 mg/dl and < or =65 years.