Penumbral Rescue by normobaric O = O administration in patients with ischemic stroke and target mismatch proFile (PROOF): Study protocol of a phase IIb trial

RATIONALE

Oxygen is essential for cellular energy metabolism. Neurons are particularly vulnerable to hypoxia. Increasing oxygen supply shortly after stroke onset could preserve the ischemic penumbra until revascularization occurs.

AIMS

PROOF investigates the use of normobaric oxygen (NBO) therapy within 6 h of symptom onset/notice for brain-protective bridging until endovascular revascularization of acute intracranial anterior-circulation occlusion.

METHODS AND DESIGN

Randomized (1:1), standard treatment-controlled, open-label, blinded endpoint, multicenter adaptive phase IIb trial.

STUDY OUTCOMES

Primary outcome is ischemic core growth (mL) from baseline to 24 h (intention-to-treat analysis). Secondary efficacy outcomes include change in NIHSS from baseline to 24 h, mRS at 90 days, cognitive and emotional function, and quality of life. Safety outcomes include mortality, intracranial hemorrhage, and respiratory failure. Exploratory analyses of imaging and blood biomarkers will be conducted.

SAMPLE SIZE

Using an adaptive design with interim analysis at 80 patients per arm, up to 456 participants (228 per arm) would be needed for 80% power (one-sided alpha 0.05) to detect a mean reduction of ischemic core growth by 6.68 mL, assuming 21.4 mL standard deviation.

DISCUSSION

By enrolling endovascular thrombectomy candidates in an early time window, the trial replicates insights from preclinical studies in which NBO showed beneficial effects, namely early initiation of near 100% inspired oxygen during short temporary ischemia. Primary outcome assessment at 24 h on follow-up imaging reduces variability due to withdrawal of care and early clinical confounders such as delayed extubation and aspiration pneumonia.

TRIAL REGISTRATIONS

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03500939; EudraCT: 2017-001355-31.

Transitional changes in the structure of C-reactive protein create highly pro-inflammatory molecules: Therapeutic implications for cardiovascular diseases

C-reactive protein (CRP) is the prototypic acute-phase reactant that has long been recognized almost exclusively as a marker of inflammation and predictor of cardiovascular risk. However, accumulating evidence indicates that CRP is also a direct pathogenic pro-inflammatory mediator in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. The 'CRP system' consists of at least two protein conformations with distinct pathophysiological functions. The binding of the native, pentameric CRP (pCRP) to activated cell membranes leads to a conformational change resulting in two highly pro-inflammatory isoforms, pCRP* and monomeric CRP (mCRP). The deposition of these pro-inflammatory isoforms has been shown to aggravate the localized tissue injury in a broad range of pathological conditions including atherosclerosis and thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Here, we review recent findings on how these structural changes contribute to the inflammatory response and discuss the transitional changes in the structure of CRP as a novel therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases and overshooting inflammation.

RONC-17. Feasibility of proton therapy with and without simultaneous chemotherapy in CNS malignancies of children and adolescents

BACKGROUND: Proton therapy (PT) is a valuable alternative to photon radiotherapy in treatment of CNS tumors in children and adolescents. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of recent treatment strategies with a particular focus on the acute toxicity of a simultaneous radiotherapy and chemotherapy (sRCT). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We investigated 199 patients (116 male, 83 female, median age 7.4 years) who received in total 200 cycles of PT (60.5% at new diagnosis, 39.5% at relapse) from September 2013 to February 2017. Entities included ependymomas (34%), medulloblastomas (16%), low grade gliomas (13%), ATRTs (12%), craniopharyngiomas (9%), germ cell tumors (6%), and other entities (10%). SRCT was administered in 52 (26%) treatment cycles. The target tumor was predominantly localized infratentorial (53%), supratentorial (23.5%) and supra-/intrasellar (18%). 38 patients received additional CSI and 8 patients a boost to metastases. Data were collected retrospectively based on patient records. Toxicity was documented according to CTCAE version 4.03. RESULTS: Severe adverse events (SAE ≥ grade 3) occurred in 33.5% of all patients, in particular in form of hematotoxicity (64.1%) and infections (26.8%). In-patient treatment for unexpected SAEs was necessary in 33 patients (16.5%). In the group treated with sRCT 15 out of 52 (28.8%) patients couldn’t receive the recommended dose or time schedule of planned chemotherapy due to SAEs. Comparing the SAE frequency in both groups, the children who have been treated with sRCT had a significantly higher risk of SAEs than the patients who have received proton therapy only (63.5% vs. 23.0%, p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: PT and concomitant chemotherapy are feasible, but require an interdisciplinary team with continuous out-/inpatient management of patients, as the risk of toxicity is significantly increased. Risk-adapted adjustment of simultaneous chemotherapy is necessary to reduce relevant interruptions of radiotherapy.

Funded by the German Childhood Cancer Foundation

Complicated Carotid Artery Plaques and Risk of Recurrent Ischemic Stroke or TIA

BACKGROUND

Complicated nonstenosing carotid artery plaques (CAPs) are an under-recognized cause of stroke.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine whether complicated CAP ipsilateral to acute ischemic anterior circulation stroke (icCAP) are associated with recurrent ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).

METHODS

The CAPIAS (Carotid Plaque Imaging in Acute Stroke) multicenter study prospectively recruited patients with ischemic stroke restricted to the territory of a single carotid artery. Complicated (AHA-lesion type VI) CAP were defined by multisequence, contrast-enhanced carotid magnetic resonance imaging obtained within 10 days from stroke onset. Recurrent events were assessed after 3, 12, 24, and 36 months. The primary outcome was recurrent ischemic stroke or TIA.

RESULTS

Among 196 patients enrolled, 104 patients had cryptogenic stroke and nonstenosing CAP. During a mean follow-up of 30 months, recurrent ischemic stroke or TIA occurred in 21 patients. Recurrent events were significantly more frequent in patients with icCAP than in patients without icCAP, both in the overall cohort (incidence rate [3-year interval]: 9.50 vs 3.61 per 100 patient-years; P = 0.025, log-rank test) and in patients with cryptogenic stroke (10.92 vs 1.82 per 100 patient-years; P = 0.003). The results were driven by ipsilateral events. A ruptured fibrous cap (HR: 4.91; 95% CI: 1.31-18.45; P = 0.018) and intraplaque hemorrhage (HR: 4.37; 95% CI: 1.20-15.97; P = 0.026) were associated with a significantly increased risk of recurrent events in patients with cryptogenic stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Complicated CAP ipsilateral to acute ischemic anterior circulation stroke are associated with an increased risk of recurrent ischemic stroke or TIA. Carotid plaque imaging identifies high-risk patients who might be suited for inclusion into future secondary prevention trials. (Carotid Plaque Imaging in Acute Stroke [CAPIAS]; NCT01284933).

No structural brain alterations in new daily persistent headache - a cross sectional VBM/SBM study

OBJECTIVE

To identify grey matter alterations in patients suffering new daily persistent headache to enrich the pathophysiological concept of this rare headache disorder characterised by a distinct, clearly remembered onset and its instant chronification.

METHOD

Magnetic resonance-based voxel-based and surface-based morphometry was used to investigate 23 patients suffering from new daily persistent headache and 23 age- and gender-matched healthy controls with 1.5 Tesla MRI.Independent statistical analysis was performed at three sites using statistical parametric mapping, as well as FSL(FMRIB Software Library)-based approaches.

RESULTS

No grey matter changes were detected using this sophisticated and cross-checked method.

CONCLUSION

The absence of structural brain changes in patients with new daily persistent headache contribute to the recent discussion regarding structural alterations in primary headache disorders in general and does not provide evidence for grey matter changes being associated with the pathophysiology of new daily persistent headache. Future research will have to determine the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of this disorder.

Evaluation of the Suprafascial Thin ALT Flap in Foot and Ankle Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

 Distal lower extremity reconstruction can be challenging in terms of flap design. Bulky flaps result in limited mobility accompanied with the need of customized footwear. Raising the ALT-flap in a superficial fascial plane (thin ALT-flap) can be beneficial. This study evaluates thin ALT-flaps for lower distal extremity reconstruction.

METHODS

 In a retrospective study, patients that underwent microvascular extremity reconstruction at the level of the ankle and dorsal foot at the University of Freiburg from 2008-2018 were reviewed.

RESULTS

 95 patients could be included in the study (35 perforator flaps, 8 fascia flaps and 54 muscle flaps).Among the perforator flaps, 21 ALT-flaps were elevated conventionally and 14 in the superficial fascial plane (thin ALT-flap). Among the conventional ALT-flaps, there was one flap loss (5%) and one successful revision (5%). 5(24%) flaps received secondary thinning. 57%(n = 12) were able to wear conventional footwear. There were 2(15%) successful revisions of thin ALT-flaps. 100% of thin ALT-flaps survived and 85%(n = 11) of the patients wore ordinary footwear after defect coverage.Among fascial flaps, 50%(n = 4) had to be revised with 2(25%) complete and 1 (13%) partial flap loss. All patients achieved mobility in ordinary shoes (n = 8).In muscle flaps, there were 7(13%) revisions and 5(9%) flap losses. 5(9%) flaps received secondary thinning. Only 33%(n = 18) were mobile in ordinary footwear.

CONCLUSION

 The thin ALT-flap is a save one-stage evolution for lower distal extremity reconstruction with a favorable flap survival rate. Compared with conventional ALT-flaps it might be beneficial in reducing the need for expensive custom fitted shoes and secondary thinning procedures.

Local and systemic therapy of recurrent ependymoma in children and adolescents: short- and long-term results of the E-HIT-REZ 2005 study

BACKGROUND

Survival in recurrent ependymomas in children and adolescents mainly depends on the extent of resection. Studies on repeated radiotherapy and chemotherapy at relapse have shown conflicting results.

METHODS

Using data from the German multi-center E-HIT-REZ-2005 study, we examined the role of local therapy and the efficacy of chemotherapy with blockwise temozolomide (TMZ) in children and adolescents with recurrent ependymomas.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients with a median age of 6.9 years (1.25-25.4) at first recurrence and a median follow-up time of 36 months (2-115) were recruited. Gross- and near-total resection (GTR/NTR) were achieved in 34 (64.2%) patients and associated with a markedly improved 5-year overall survival (OS) of 48.7% vs. 5.3% in less than GTR/NTR. Radiotherapy showed no improvement in OS following complete resection (OS: 70 (CI: 19.9-120.1) vs. 95 (CI: 20.7-169.4) months), but an advantage was found in less than GTR/NTR (OS: 22 (CI: 12.7-31.3) vs. 7 (CI: 0-15.8) months). Following the application of TMZ, disease progression was observed in most evaluable cases (18/21). A subsequent change to oral etoposide and trofosfamide showed no improved response. PF-A EPN were most abundant in relapses (n = 27). RELA-positive EPN (n = 5) had a 5-year OS of 0%.

CONCLUSION

The extent of resection is the most important predictor of survival at relapse. Focal re-irradiation is a useful approach if complete resection cannot be achieved, but no additional benefit was seen after GTR/NTR. Longer-term disease stabilization (>6 months) mediated by TMZ occurred in a small number of cases (14.3%).

Décès et limitations thérapeutiques aux urgences : étude rétrospective des pratiques dans un centre hospitalier français pendant quatre ans

Objectifs : Nous avons analysé les caractéristiques médicoadministratives et la prise en charge des patients décédés dans le service d’accueil des urgences (SAU) d’un centre hospitalier français.

Matériels et méthodes : Il s’agissait d’une étude rétrospective observationnelle des patients décédés aux urgences entre janvier 2012 et décembre 2015. Nous avons analysé les procédures de limitation et d’arrêt des thérapeutiques actives (LATA) et comparé les caractéristiques des groupes de patients « LATA » et « Non LATA ».

Résultats : Deux cent trente-deux patients sont décédés au SAU en quatre ans. Vingt pour cent des décès sont survenus très rapidement malgré les soins de réanimation, et 80 % sont survenus après une décision de LATA. Les LATA étaient décidées par un urgentiste seul dans 56 % des cas et avec un délai de réflexion très court : 13 % en préhospitalier et 28 % au cours de la première heure au SAU. Quatorze pour cent des LATA n’étaient pas inscrites dans le dossier médical. Les patients en LATA étaient plus âgés, plus souvent déments, venaient de maison de retraite et étaient adressés pour des motifs plus graves (p < 0,01). Ils ont généralement bénéficié de soins de confort en unité d’hospitalisation de courte durée : antalgiques, hypnotiques et antisécrétoires lorsque cela était nécessaire.

Conclusion : Deux tiers des procédures de LATA ne respectaient pas les recommandations de bonne pratique en termes de collégialité et de traçabilité. Une amélioration des pratiques est possible au SAU par l’élaboration d’une nouvelle procédure de LATA prenant en compte les contraintes de l’urgence.

Akuttherapie des Schlaganfalls

Die aktuellen Konzepte zur Behandlung der akuten zerebralen Ischämie sowie der Hirnblutung werden dargestellt. Die Indikationsstellung zur Thrombolyse im Standardfall und in besonderen Situationen, die Anwendung moderner MRT-Diagnostik und differenzialtherapeutische Überlegungen werden dargelegt. Bei der Therapie der Hirnblutung wird auf die Indikationsstellung zur neurochirurgischen Hämatomevakuation eingegangen und die akute hämostatische Therapie besprochen.

Infection of the Colon of the Rhesus Monkey by Spiral-Shaped Organisms

Intestinal spirochetosis, an infection of the mucosa by spiral-shaped organisms, was studied in clinically normal rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) by histology, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The incidence of intestinal spirochetosis was 42% in 221 monkeys. Spiral organisms stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) appeared as a broad basophilic haze on the colonic surface and were strongly positive by the Warthin-Starry stain.

Spiral-shaped bacteria include two structurally different organisms: spirochetes and flagellated microbes. They intimately populated the brush border of the surface of the epithelium of the large intestine. They were absent in the crypts and in the small intestine. Infection by spirochetes produced no alteration of cytocomponents of the underlying host structures. Spirochetes and flagellates infrequently penetrated beyond the brush border into the epithelial cytoplasm and also into the lamina propria. Even in cases where invasion was documented, no inflammatory response was found.

Increased cortical activation upon painful stimulation in fibromyalgia syndrome

BACKGROUND

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and associated symptoms. We investigated cerebral activation in FMS patients by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS).

METHODS

Two stimulation paradigms were applied: a) painful pressure stimulation at the dorsal forearm; b) verbal fluency test (VFT). We prospectively recruited 25 FMS patients, ten patients with unipolar major depression (MD) without pain, and 35 healthy controls. All patients underwent neurological examination and all subjects were investigated with questionnaires (pain, depression, FMS, empathy).

RESULTS

FMS patients had lower pressure pain thresholds than patients with MD and controls (p <  .001) and reported higher pain intensity (p < 0.001). Upon unilateral pressure pain stimulation fNIRS recordings revealed increased bilateral cortical activation in FMS patients compared to controls (p < 0.05). FMS patients also displayed a stronger contralateral activity over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in direct comparison to patients with MD (p < 0.05). While all three groups performed equally well in the VFT, a frontal deficit in cortical activation was only found in patients with depression (p < 0.05). Performance and cortical activation correlated negatively in FMS patients (p < 0.05) and positively in patients with MD (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data give further evidence for altered central nervous processing in patients with FMS and the distinction between FMS and MD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN registry ID ISRCTN15015327 (24.09.2015).

[Therapy of acute stroke]

Current therapeutic concepts for acute cerebral ischaemia and cerebral haemorrhage are summarized. Patient selection for thrombolysis, the role of stroke MRI and the choice of recanalization techniques are discussed. The treatment of intracerebral haemorrhage with particular emphasis on evacuation of haematoma and acute haemostatic therapy are discussed.

Symptoms associated with malignancy of peripheral nerve sheath tumours: a retrospective study of 69 patients with neurofibromatosis 1

BACKGROUND

Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a common genetic disorder with variable clinical manifestations and an unpredictable course. Plexiform neurofibromas are common complications of NF1. Their malignant transformation is the main cause of mortality in adult patients with NF1.

OBJECTIVES

To identify clinical factors associated with malignant transformation of plexiform neurofibromas.

METHODS

Using the database of our neurofibromatosis clinic we included in a retrospective study all patients with NF1 having at least one peripheral nerve sheath tumour for which they underwent surgery or surgical biopsy. Predictive values for malignant transformation of three clinical symptoms, i.e. pain, enlargement of mass and neurological symptoms, were evaluated in association with histological parameters.

RESULTS

Of 69 patients studied, 48 had at least one plexiform neurofibroma and 21 had a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour. Only enlargement of the tumour had high negative and positive predictive values for malignant transformation: 0.92 and 0.95, respectively. In multivariate analysis, tumour enlargement was independently associated with malignant transformation (odds ratio 167.8, 95% confidence interval 14.0-2012.1).

CONCLUSIONS

From a practical point of view, pain, neurological deficit and enlargement of a pre-existing peripheral nerve sheath tumour in NF1 must lead to deep surgical biopsy to rule out malignant transformation.

Association between benign and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors in NF1

OBJECTIVE

People with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) have a 10% lifetime risk of developing a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST). MPNSTs are often metastatic and are a frequent cause of death among people with NF1. Clinical evidence suggests that most MPNSTs in people with NF1 develop from preexisting plexiform neurofibromas. However, it is not known whether an individual's risk of developing an MPNST is associated with the burden of benign neurofibromas. The authors conducted a study to determine whether people with NF1 who have benign neurofibromas of various kinds are at greater risk of developing MPNSTs than patients with NF1 who lack these benign tumors.

METHODS

Clinical information on 476 NF1 probands in the Henri Mondor Database was analyzed by logistic regression to examine associations between MPNSTs and internal plexiform, superficial plexiform, subcutaneous, and cutaneous neurofibromas.

RESULTS

Individuals with subcutaneous neurofibromas were approximately three times more likely to have internal plexiform neurofibromas or MPNSTs than individuals without subcutaneous neurofibromas. Individuals with internal plexiform neurofibromas were 20 times more likely to have MPNSTs than individuals without internal plexiform neurofibromas. When this analysis was done with both subcutaneous and internal plexiform neurofibromas as explanatory variables, only the association of MPNSTs with internal plexiform neurofibromas remained significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The observation that malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are strongly associated with internal plexiform neurofibromas suggests that patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 with these benign tumors warrant increased surveillance for malignancy.

[The French version of Skindex (Skindex-France). Adaptation and assessment of psychometric properties]

INTRODUCTION

The Skindex is an American tool designed to measure the impact of skin diseases on quality of life. The aim of our study was to adapt and validate this questionnaire in French in a population of patients with neurofibromatosis 1.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Translation and cultural adaptation: Translations were performed independently by two bilingual persons, then discussed. A preliminary version was obtained and confronted with 5 persons with low level of education and 6 patients with neurofibromatosis 1, before assessment in 24 neurofibromatosis 1 patients. The final version was named Skindex-France. Validation study: a test-retest study (1 month interval) was performed on 129 subjects with neurofibromatosis 1 to assess reliability and validity.

RESULTS

Acceptability was good with a low rate of missing data (less than 5 p. 100). Ceiling and floor effects were less than 20 p. 100. The scores are sufficiently reliable (Cronbach alpha coefficient: emotions: 0.95, symptoms: 0.86, functioning: 0.94, and test-retest Spearman r: emotions: 0.92, symptoms: 0.84, functioning: 0.90).

CONCLUSION

Skindex-France can be used to measure with precision the impact of skin diseases.

Evaluation of neuraminidase enzyme assays using different substrates to measure susceptibility of influenza virus clinical isolates to neuraminidase inhibitors: report of the neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility network

The increasing use of influenza virus neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors (NIs) necessitates the development of reliable methods for assessing the NI susceptibility of clinical isolates. We evaluated three NA inhibition assays against a panel of five clinical isolates each of influenza virus A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains and four viruses with a defined resistance genotype (R292K, H274Y, R152K, and E119V). For fluorometric enzyme assay (FA) 1 (FA-1), 2'-(4-methylumbelliferyl)-alpha-D-N-acetylneuraminic acid (MUNANA) at 100 microM was used as the substrate, with pretitration of the virus input. For FA-2, MUNANA at 200 microM was used as the substrate, with a fixed 1:10 dilution of input virus. For the chemiluminescence (CL) assay, the 1,2-dioxetane derivative of sialic acid at 100 microM was used as the substrate, with pretitration of the virus. Four different operators repeated the assays several times in a blinded fashion with both zanamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate (GS4071) to determine intra- and interassay variations. Mean 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) values were lower and generally less variable with the CL assay. FA-1 displayed greater variation than the CL assay or FA-2 and the highest IC(50) values with zanamivir; FA-2 showed the highest values with oseltamivir, particularly for influenza virus B, and was more variable with zanamivir than was the CL assay. All three assays detected 40-fold or greater changes in IC(50) values for the resistant viruses with at least one drug. Mixing experiments, whereby increasing fractions (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100%) of NA from a known NI-resistant virus were mixed with the corresponding NI-sensitive parental NA, indicated that the resolution of IC(50) values was clearer with the CL assay than with FA-2 for two of the resistant variants (R152K and E119V). The FA and CL methods were reliable for the detection of NI resistance, but all assays have certain limitations. Based on reproducibility, ease of automation, time required for the assay, and greater sensitivity, the CL assay was selected for future susceptibility testing of influenza virus isolates circulating globally.

Usefulness of systematic ophthalmologic investigations in neurofibromatosis 1: a cross-sectional study of 211 patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the usefulness of ophthalmologic examination for diagnosis and for detection of complications in adult patients with neurofibromatosis 1.

METHODS

PATIENTS with at least one criterion of neurofibromatosis 1 (excluding ophthalmologic criteria) seen at a referral centre had a systematic ophthalmologic examination including best-corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination and dilated funduscopy. The ophthalmologist was unaware of all other anamnestic data.

RESULTS

PATIENTS

211 patients with NF1 were included (mean age: 32 +/- 14 yr.). Ophthalmologic examination in neurofibromatosis 1 patients: Lisch nodules (n = 185) (87.7%); choroidal hamartomas (n = 61) (29%); enlarged corneal nerves (n = 1); 3 plexiform neurofibromas (n = 3); symptomatic optic pathway gliomas (n = 5). Diagnostic contribution of presence of Lisch nodules: 6 (3%) of 211 patients. Detection of complications: none.

CONCLUSIONS

In adult patients with neurofibromatosis 1, the contribution of ophthalmologic examination to diagnosis and to the detection of complications is low. Ophthalmologic examination should be performed in patients for whom questioning and clinical examination failed to give evidence of NF1 or to determine the NF subtypes.

[Blue-red macules and pseudoatrophic macules in neurofibromatosis 1]

INTRODUCTION

Blue-red macules are exception during neurofibromatosis 1. Between October 1988 and March 2000 in our cohort of patients, we systematically looked for these lesions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Presence and number of blue-red macules were evaluated. Biopsies and photographs were proposed to patients.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients out of 583 (39 y; range: 20-66 y) (7.5 p. 100; CI 95 p. 100: 5.5-9.8 p. 100) had blue-red macules mainly on the trunk. Histologically, blue-red macules corresponded to neurofibromatous tissue infiltrating capillary blood vessels and venules.

CONCLUSION

Blue-red macules are a peculiar type of neurofibroma and can therefore be considered as a criterion for the diagnosis of neurofibromatosis 1.

[Neurofibromatosis 1: recommendations for management]

Twenty experts, members of a French medical network devoted to neurofibromatosis 1 have elaborated recommendations for the management of the disease. Bibliography was obtained through a Medline of articles from 1966 to 1999 for the terms neurofibromatosis, NF1, neurofibroma and from textbooks. A consensual document was written taking into account extracted data. An annual careful clinical examination is recommended except in cases with complications. Screening investigations are not recommended due to the rarity of complications, generally symptomatic and easily detected during the clinical follow-up. The only controversial exception might be magnetic resonance imaging for early detection of optic pathway gliomas in young children. A co-ordinated follow-up in specialised multidisciplinary centres, providing patients with a rational management, is recommended.

Quality-of-life impairment in neurofibromatosis type 1: a cross-sectional study of 128 cases

BACKGROUND

Neurofibromatosis type 1 affects quality of life (QoL) through association with severe complications, impact on cosmetic features, and uncertainty of the effects of the disorder.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of the severity and visibility of neurofibromatosis type 1 on QoL.

DESIGN

Monocenter, cross-sectional study.

SETTING

One French academic dermatological and neurofibromatoses clinic.

PATIENTS

A total of 128 adult patients with neurofibromatosis type 1.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Evaluation of severity and visibility using, respectively, the Riccardi and Ablon scales. Evaluation of skin disease-specific and general QoL using, respectively, Skindex-France and SF-36 (Short Form 36 health survey) profiles controlled for sex, age, severity, and visibility.

RESULTS

In a multiple regression model controlling for sex, age, and visibility, visibility remained independently associated with the alteration of 3 aspects of the skin disease-specific QoL (Skindex-France): emotions, physical symptoms, and functioning (P =.03, P =.009, and P =.002, respectively). Patients with more severe neurofibromatosis reported more effects on the following domains of their general health QoL (SF-36): physical function, bodily pain, general health perception, and vitality (P =.006, P =.03, P =.01, and P =.04, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Neurofibromatosis type 1 has a significant impact on QoL through alteration of health and appearance. The consequences of visibility and severity from the viewpoint of patients can be evaluated using Skindex and the SF-36, respectively.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors associated with neurofibromatosis type 1: a clinicopathologic and molecular study of 17 patients

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential prognostic factors and criteria for early detection of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).

DESIGN

Retrospective study of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors in a cohort of 395 patients with NF1 followed up between October 1, 1988, and January 1, 1999; review of the clinical and histological characteristics of treatment and course; and analysis of p53 mutations and overexpression in tumors.

SETTING

Teaching hospital referral neurofibromatosis center for adults.

PATIENTS

Seventeen patients with NF1 (9 males and 8 females). Mean +/- SD patient age at diagnosis was 32 +/- 14 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

(1) Clinical symptoms, (2) comparison of p53 mutations and overexpression in benign vs malignant tumors; and (3) median survival.

RESULTS

Twelve patients had high-grade tumors. All tumors except 1 developed on preexisting nodular or plexiform neurofibromas. Pain and enlarging mass were the first and predominant signs. None of the benign tumors displayed significant p53 staining or p53 mutations. Six of 12 malignant tumors significantly overexpressed p53, and 4 of 6 harbored p53 missense mutations. Median survival was 18 months overall, 53 months in peripheral locations, and 21 months in axial locations.

CONCLUSIONS

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are highly aggressive in NF1. They mostly arise from plexiform or nodular neurofibromas. Investigations and deep biopsy of painful and enlarging nodular or plexiform neurofibromas should be considered in patients with NF1. Late appearance of p53 mutations and overexpression precludes their use as predictive markers of malignant transformation.

[Large hairy pigmented spots in neurofibromatosis type 1: an atypical form of neurofibromas]

INTRODUCTION

Large hairy pigmented spots have been observed in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. In this study we tried to determine the nature and the frequency of these hairy pigmented spots in neurofibromatosis type 1.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In patients with neurofibromatosis type 1, hairy pigmented spots with a diameter more than 3 cm were systematically notified. Realisation of the biopsy of the spot was proposed to the patient.

RESULTS

Among 614 patients with neurofibromatosis type 1, seven (1.1 p. 100) had a large hairy pigmented spot. Biopsy was realized in six cases. In five cases, diagnosis was superficial and plexiform neurofibroma, the 6(th) case was a Becker's nevus.

CONCLUSION

Large hairy pigmented spot is a rare aspect of superficial and plexiform neurofibroma during neurofibromatosis type 1. A biopsy may be useful if it is necessary for the disorder diagnosis.

NF1 gene analysis focused on CpG-rich exons in a cohort of 93 patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

We studied the NF1 gene in 93 unrelated patients with neurofibromatosis type1, focusing the analysis on four exons that contain the highest number of possible mutations occurring at CpG sites. We used denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis to analyse exons 16, 28, 29 and 49, which contain 45 (25%) of the 183 possible mutations that could occur at the 120 CpG dinucleotides of the coding sequence. Six different mutations were identified, five of which are novel: two truncating mutations, W1810X and 5448insG, located in exon29; two splice defects leading to exon29 skipping, 5206-2A>G and 5546G>A; and one missense mutation, L844F, located in exon16. The already described R1748X mutation located in exon29 was found in two unrelated patients. The 5546G>A and R1748X mutations are located at CpG sites, whereas the W1810X involves a CpNpG site. Four novel polymorphisms, which may be helpful for family studies, were also identified. Overall, all but one mutations were found in exon29, a result which suggests that all the CpG sites of the NF1 coding sequence do not have the same mutability, and that exon29, the most CpG-rich exon, contains mutational hotspots associated with NF1.

Cost evaluation of the medical management of neurofibromatosis 1: a prospective study on 201 patients

Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is associated with many internal complications as well as skin manifestations, and patients may require a variety of medical and surgical interventions. We aimed to assess the medical needs of NF1 patients, and to evaluate the financial cost of the resources used for them in relation to the severity of the disease. We conducted a prospective analysis on a cohort of 201 patients in our referral centre for adults. Severity of the disease was assessed. Therapeutic management was considered as multidisciplinary if it required more than three different specialists. Plastic and dermatological surgery procedures performed were recorded. Hospital costs were computed over a 3-year period and included all hospitalization days, clinic visits and procedures performed in all departments where the patients were admitted. One hundred and thirty-seven patients had at least one out-patient procedure or one hospitalization during the follow-up period. The mean cost per patient per year was pound810 (median 240; range 0-13, 860). Multidisciplinary procedures were more frequent in moderately and severely affected NF1 patients than in milder cases (P < 0. 0001); hence, the costs for moderate and severe cases were higher than for less severe groups (P = 0.005). Plastic and/or dermatological surgery was performed with the same frequency in the different severity groups (71%). Regardless of the presence of serious intractable complications, the patients' priority is for treatment of the disfigurement due to the disease. The management of these patients can be considered relatively inexpensive from the viewpoint of the healthcare system.

Efficacy of a vibratory stimulus for the relief of HIV-associated neuropathic pain

Pain related to HIV disease is frequently debilitating. Of the many pain syndromes that occur in persons with HIV, distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN) is particularly devastating. Because DSPN often responds, at best, only partially to available pharmacologic interventions, non-pharmacologic interventions need to be investigated. Vibration has been suggested to be effective for reducing pain in other populations with chronic pain. This randomized, sham-controlled, double-masked study tested the short-term efficacy of a 45-min vibration treatment for DSPN foot pain in persons infected with HIV. Vibration therapy was delivered using a portable platform foot vibrator that provided stimulation at a frequency of 60 Hz. For all patients, the control box for the vibrator emitted an audible hum and part of the control box lit up during treatment, but only patients randomized to active treatment received vibration. Pain intensity (0-10) was measured immediately prior to and after treatment. Subjects were also questioned regarding pain relief (0-100%) immediately after the treatment. The mean percentage pain relief was 61.0+/-33.1% (median 70.0; range 0-100) for all patients, 67.3+/-34.0% (median 80.0; range 0-100) for vibration patients, and 55.0+/-32.0% (median 60.0; range 0-100) for sham patients. No statistically significant differences were found between the vibration and sham groups with respect to percentage pain relief (Mann-Whitney test; P=0.19) or the pre- and post-treatment current-pain difference (Mann-Whitney test; P=0.92). These results underscore the necessity for control groups in studies of non-pharmacologic therapies for pain.

[Clinical diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1]

TO DIAGNOSE NEUROFIBROMATOSIS TYPE 1 (NF1) AND TO DETECT ITS COMPLICATIONS: NF1 is the commonest autosomal dominant (1/3000 à 3500 births). Café au lait spots, axillary and inguinal freckling, hamartomas of the iris (Lisch nodules) and multiple cutaneous neurofibromas, characterize NF1. NF1 can be associated with optic gliomas, spinal or peripheral nerve neurofibromas, macrocephaly, cognitive et neurological disorders, une scoliosis and bone abnormalities. Morbidity and mortality of NF1 are linked to multisystemic complications.

DIAGNOSIS

In adulthood, diagnosis of NF1 is easy with physical examination: presence of café au lait spots, axillary and inguinal frecklings, neurofibromas. In early childhood, diagnosis can be difficult. Penetrance of the gene is complete by the age of 5 and the diagnosis is made during the follow-up.

COMPLICATIONS

Clinical examination can easily identify complications such as scoliosis, pseudarthrosis, hypertension linked to renal artery stenosis or phaeochromocytoma or learning disabilities.

CONCLUSION

Annual clinical examination is sufficient for the follow-up of NF1 patients. Screening investigations are not useful because of rare complications, but symptomatic.

Increased fibroblast elastase activity in acquired cutis laxa

BACKGROUND

Acquired cutis laxa is a rare disease characterized by sagging skin, premature wrinkling and reduced skin elasticity.

OBSERVATION

We report a 21-year-old woman, who presented with acquired cutis laxa on the face and the ear lobes. Urticarial papules had preceded for 6 years. There was no systemic involvement. Skin specimens were obtained from lax skin and urticarial papules, and from healthy controls. Histology showed only few perivascular lymphocytes in lax ear skin and a dense inflammatory infiltrate in urticarial skin. In both biopsies elastic fibres were decreased as demonstrated by computerized morphometric analyses. Elastase activities of fibroblasts in culture were evaluated. There was a 2- to 3-fold increase in elastase activity in urticarial skin fibroblasts, contrasting with a normal elastase activity in lax ear skin.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the inflammatory cells could play a significant role in the destruction of elastic fibres.

Autocorrelation measurement of femtosecond laser pulses by use of a ZnSe two-photon detector array

We demonstrate autocorrelation measurements of 85-fs Ti:sapphire laser pulses, using a 32-pixel ZnSe detector array in a single-shot geometry. The two-photon photoconductor is fabricated by deposition of an array of interdigitated gold fingers on a single-crystal ZnSe substrate.