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Studer SM. Might Rebranding Palliative Care Improve its Integration into Treatment for Those Patients Diagnosed With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.21693/1933-088x-17.1.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Studer SM, Kingman M, Calo L, Cannon HE, Dunn JD, James T, Lewis SJ, Gilkin RJ, Pruett JA. Considerations for optimal management of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: a multi-stakeholder roundtable discussion. Am J Manag Care 2017; 23:S95-S104. [PMID: 28715904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A roundtable panel of national and regional managed care decision makers and providers met to discuss pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and strategies for management. As a rare, complex disease with high economic costs and potentially devastating outcomes, PAH necessitates that managed care providers balance optimal care with efficient use of healthcare resources. PAH specialists are recognized by health plans as knowledgeable experts and integral partners in managing patients and resources. The diagnosis of PAH must be confirmed by a right heart catheterization. Available therapies are indicated almost exclusively for patients with PAH (riociguat is also indicated in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension) and target 1 of 3 pathways: endothelin receptor antagonists for the endothelin pathway; phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors and soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators for the nitric oxide pathway; and prostanoids as well as a prostacyclin receptor agonist for the prostacyclin pathway, with combination therapy becoming more common. Even in the modern treatment era, as shown in the REVEAL and French registries, PAH is often diagnosed years after symptoms first appear, which leads to a poor prognosis and increased burden on the healthcare system. Facilitating treatment of patients with PAH through centers of excellence, and coordinating care management between health plans and providers with evidence-based approaches can lead to both better results for patients and lower healthcare costs. When PAH experts have access to the right treatments for the right patients at the right time, they can work with insurers to improve the health of patients with PAH while helping to reduce the impact on the healthcare system.
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Abstract
Development of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1P1) modulators to dampen inflammation and its sequelae is becoming increasingly promising for treating medical conditions characterized by significant immunopathology. As shown by the non-selective S1P receptor modulator FTY720 (fingolimod [Gilenya(®)]) in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), the ability to use S1P1 modulation to precisely block immune cell traffic-immunomodulation-while maintaining immunosurveillance, has opened therapeutic opportunities in various other immune-derived chronic pathologies, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lupus, psoriasis, as well as, potentially, in early acute viral respiratory infection. Proof-of-concept studies across validated animal models with S1P receptor modulators highly selective for S1P1, such as BAF-312 (Siponimod), KRP-203, ONO-4641 (Ceralifimod), ponesimod and RPC-1063, and emerging clinical trials for safety and efficacy in humans, particularly in MS, ulcerative colitis (UC) and psoriasis, have set the stage for us to consider additional testing in various other autoimmune diseases.
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Studer SM, Gilkin RJ. Clinical trial designs in PAH: shifting from functional measurements to long-term clinical outcomes. Am J Manag Care 2014; 20:S115-S122. [PMID: 24716456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease of the pulmonary vasculature that leads to right ventricular dysfunction, right ventricular failure, and premature death. There are a number of medications already on the market, representing different therapeutic classes and possessing multiple mechanisms of action. Three new agents were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2013, and others are currently in development. Recent advancements in PAH have resulted in increased survival and improved quality of life; however, no therapy provides a cure. Experts in the field are now utilizing clinical trial designs and end points that better reflect the disease progression among patients with this chronic disease. Although randomized placebo-controlled monotherapy trials are considered the strongest design, ethical and practical considerations have led to an increasing number of randomized trials designed to compare a PAH-specific treatment with placebo as an add-on to standard therapy. As many patients who enroll in clinical trials are already being treated for their condition, it may be unethical to withdraw or delay lifesaving therapies. The most widely used primary end point for PAH trials, change in 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) from baseline, has substantial limitations. Although it is generally reproducible, inexpensive, and relatively easy to conduct, the 6MWD is not designed to assess disease progression. Recent data have shown that 6MWD has inconsistent correlation with key indicators of disease progression such as hospitalization due to PAH, worsening right-sided heart failure, and death. The Task Force on End Points and Clinical Trial Design that met at the 4th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension (WSPH) in 2008 in Dana Point, California, questioned the clinical relevance of the 6MWD as a primary end point and recommended the use of a composite end point--time to clinical worsening (TTCW)--in phase 3 or pivotal trials. TTCW may include time from randomization to PAH-related hospitalization, need for interventional procedures (ie, lung transplantation or balloon atrial septostomy), and mortality. More recently, at the 5th WSPH, held in 2013 in Nice, France, experts reiterated these recommendations. They further noted that, as clinical trials increasingly allow background therapies and are longer in duration, it may be more meaningful to use primary end points that measure "clinical worsening" rather than 6MWD. This paradigm shift will not only lead to a clearer demonstration of efficacy and safety as new agents come on the market, but will provide important information on long-term benefits (ie, the effects of drugs on clinical deterioration) that can assist payers as they strive to make value-based formulary decisions and provide cost-effective high-quality care.
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Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension in the setting of parenchymal lung disease and conditions associated with chronic hypoxemia is commonly encountered in clinical practice and may adversely affect patients' function and mortality. Diagnosis of this subgroup of pulmonary hypertension has evolved but still requires right heart catheterization for confirmation. The primary treatment goal is optimization of the underlying parenchymal lung or hypoxemia-associated condition prior to consideration of pharmacologic therapy. Limited published experience with pulmonary hypertension-specific medications for treatment of WHO Group 3 pulmonary hypertension suggests symptomatic and functional benefit in selected individuals. The potential for worsening ventilation-perfusion matching must be considered in these cases, however, since there is a paucity of data regarding the optimal approach to treatment selection. Ongoing medication trials and further investigation of mechanisms of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction provide hope for these patients who in the past often had only lung transplantation as a potential treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooman D Poor
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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McMahon C, Studer SM, Clendinen C, Dann GP, Jeffrey PD, Hughson FM. The structure of Sec12 implicates potassium ion coordination in Sar1 activation. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:43599-606. [PMID: 23109340 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.420141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Coat protein II (COPII)-coated vesicles transport proteins and lipids from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi. Crucial for the initiation of COPII coat assembly is Sec12, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor responsible for activating the small G protein Sar1. Once activated, Sar1/GTP binds to endoplasmic reticulum membranes and recruits COPII coat components (Sec23/24 and Sec13/31). Here, we report the 1.36 Å resolution crystal structure of the catalytically active, 38-kDa cytoplasmic portion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sec12. Sec12 adopts a β propeller fold. Conserved residues cluster around a loop we term the "K loop," which extends from the N-terminal propeller blade. Structure-guided site-directed mutagenesis, in conjunction with in vitro and in vivo functional studies, reveals that this region of Sec12 is catalytically essential, presumably because it makes direct contact with Sar1. Strikingly, the crystal structure also reveals that a single potassium ion stabilizes the K loop; bound potassium is, moreover, essential for optimum guanine nucleotide exchange activity in vitro. Thus, our results reveal a novel role for a potassium-stabilized loop in catalyzing guanine nucleotide exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor McMahon
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
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Shyu S, Dew MA, Pilewski JM, DeVito Dabbs AJ, Zaldonis DB, Studer SM, Crespo MM, Toyoda Y, Bermudez CA, McCurry KR. Five-year outcomes with alemtuzumab induction after lung transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 2011; 30:743-54. [PMID: 21420318 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2011.01.714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Revised: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 01/10/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Induction therapy with alemtuzumab, followed by lower than conventional intensity post-transplant immunosuppression (eg, tacrolimus monotherapy), has been associated with reduced morbidity and mortality in abdominal and heart transplantation. We examined 5-year outcomes in lung recipients receiving alemtuzumab in conjunction with reduced-intensity post-transplant immunosuppression (early lower-dose tacrolimus; lower-dose steroids, with or without mycophenolate mofetil), compared with lung recipients receiving other induction agents or no induction in association with post-transplant immunosuppression. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed using prospectively collected data from a single-site clinical database of 336 lung recipients (aged ≥ 18) who received allografts between 1998 and 2005, classified by induction type: alemtuzumab, 127; Thymoglobulin, 43; daclizumab, 73; and none, 93. Survival analyses examined patient and graft survival, and freedom from acute cellular rejection (ACR), lymphocytic bronchiolitis, obliterative bronchiolitis (OB), bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS), and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). RESULTS Five-year patient and graft survival differed by group (p = 0.046, p = 0.038, respectively). Alemtuzumab patient/graft survival rates were 59%/59%. Survival rates were 60%/44% for Thymoglobulin, 47%/46% for no induction, and 44%/41% for daclizumab. Freedom from ACR, lymphocytic bronchiolitis, OB, and BOS differed by group (all values, p < 0.008); alemtuzumab recipients showed greater 5-year freedom from each outcome (30%/82%/86%/54%) than Thymoglobulin (20%/54%/62%/27%), daclizumab (19%/55%/70%/43%), and no-induction groups (18%/70%/69%/46%). The groups did not differ in PTLD rates (≥ 94% free of PTLD at 5 years; p = 0.864). Effects were unchanged after controlling for potential covariates. CONCLUSIONS Alemtuzumab induction may be associated with improved outcomes in lung transplantation. Randomized controlled trials are needed to establish any effects of this agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Shyu
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
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Song MK, Devito Dabbs AJ, Studer SM, Arnold RM, Pilewski JM. Exploring the meaning of chronic rejection after lung transplantation and its impact on clinical management and caregiving. J Pain Symptom Manage 2010; 40:246-55. [PMID: 20541897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2009.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2009] [Revised: 12/15/2009] [Accepted: 01/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Although the literature continues to portray chronic rejection after lung transplantation as ominous with no known treatment, no studies have examined family and clinician caregivers' perceptions of the diagnosis of chronic rejection and its impact on the course of clinical care. We explored the meaning and impact of chronic rejection from the perspective of family (n=10) and clinician (n=3) caregivers. We found that family caregivers considered the onset of chronic rejection to be inevitable, irreversible, unpredictable, and going back to pretransplant. Clinicians considered chronic rejection as a harbinger of deterioration and peril and expressed trepidation about informing recipients and their family caregivers about the diagnosis. Despite the heightened caregiving duties and challenges of treating chronic rejection, its unpredictable course and the prospect of retransplant instilled hope for stabilization or cure among most clinicians and caregivers, leading them to support recipients' wishes to pursue potentially futile treatments. Until recipients were no longer competent, caregivers believed all treatment options (including retransplant) had been exhausted, or suffering was prolonged, caregivers were reluctant to halt extraordinary treatment measures. Caregivers perceived that certainty regarding poor prognosis was required for palliative care and that palliative care was end-of-life care. Consequently, trials of aggressive treatment typically precluded palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Kyung Song
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA.
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Lama ME, Studer SM, Patel PS, Ahmad N. AMBULATORY TRANSESOPHAGEAL MEASUREMENT OF DIAPHRAGMATIC FUNCTION. Chest 2009. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.136.4_meetingabstracts.57s-c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Di Giuseppe M, Gambelli F, Hoyle GW, Lungarella G, Studer SM, Richards T, Yousem S, McCurry K, Dauber J, Kaminski N, Leikauf G, Ortiz LA. Systemic inhibition of NF-kappaB activation protects from silicosis. PLoS One 2009; 4:e5689. [PMID: 19479048 PMCID: PMC2682759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0005689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2007] [Accepted: 04/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Silicosis is a complex lung disease for which no successful treatment is available and therefore lung transplantation is a potential alternative. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of silicosis. TNFα signaling is mediated by the transcription factor, Nuclear Factor (NF)-κB, which regulates genes controlling several physiological processes including the innate immune responses, cell death, and inflammation. Therefore, inhibition of NF-κB activation represents a potential therapeutic strategy for silicosis. Methods/Findings In the present work we evaluated the lung transplant database (May 1986–July 2007) at the University of Pittsburgh to study the efficacy of lung transplantation in patients with silicosis (n = 11). We contrasted the overall survival and rate of graft rejection in these patients to that of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF, n = 79) that was selected as a control group because survival benefit of lung transplantation has been identified for these patients. At the time of lung transplantation, we found the lungs of silica-exposed subjects to contain multiple foci of inflammatory cells and silicotic nodules with proximal TNFα expressing macrophage and NF-κB activation in epithelial cells. Patients with silicosis had poor survival (median survival 2.4 yr; confidence interval (CI): 0.16–7.88 yr) compared to IPF patients (5.3 yr; CI: 2.8–15 yr; p = 0.07), and experienced early rejection of their lung grafts (0.9 yr; CI: 0.22–0.9 yr) following lung transplantation (2.4 yr; CI:1.5–3.6 yr; p<0.05). Using a mouse experimental model in which the endotracheal instillation of silica reproduces the silica-induced lung injury observed in humans we found that systemic inhibition of NF-κB activation with a pharmacologic inhibitor (BAY 11-7085) of IκBα phosphorylation decreased silica-induced inflammation and collagen deposition. In contrast, transgenic mice expressing a dominant negative IκBα mutant protein under the control of epithelial cell specific promoters demonstrate enhanced apoptosis and collagen deposition in their lungs in response to silica. Conclusions Although limited by its size, our data support that patients with silicosis appear to have poor outcome following lung transplantation. Experimental data indicate that while the systemic inhibition of NF-κB protects from silica-induced lung injury, epithelial cell specific NF-κB inhibition appears to aggravate the outcome of experimental silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangelo Di Giuseppe
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Federica Gambelli
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Gary W. Hoyle
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Informational Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | | | - Sean M. Studer
- Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Thomas Richards
- Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Sam Yousem
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ken McCurry
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - James Dauber
- Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Naftali Kaminski
- Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - George Leikauf
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Luis A. Ortiz
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Studer SM, George MP, Zhu X, Song Y, Valentine VG, Stoner MW, Sethi J, Steele C, Duncan SR. CD28 down-regulation on CD4 T cells is a marker for graft dysfunction in lung transplant recipients. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2008; 178:765-73. [PMID: 18617642 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200701-013oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Repeated antigen-driven proliferations cause CD28 on T cells to down-regulate. We hypothesized that alloantigen-induced proliferations could cause CD28 down-regulation in lung transplant recipients. OBJECTIVES To ascertain if CD28 down-regulation on CD4 T cells associated with manifestations of allograft dysfunction in lung transplant recipients. METHODS Peripheral blood CD4 T cells from 65 recipients were analyzed by flow cytometry, cytokine multiplex and proliferative assays, and correlated with clinical events. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Findings that CD28 was present on less than 90% of total CD4 T cells were predominantly seen among the recipients with bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (specificity = 88%). Perforin and granzyme B were produced by >50% of the CD4(+)CD28(null) cells, but less than 6% of autologous CD4(+)CD28(+) cells (P < 0.006). CD4(+)CD28(null) cells also had increased productions of proinflammatory cytokines, but less frequently expressed regulatory T-cell marker FoxP3 (2.1 +/- 1.3%), compared with autologous CD4(+)CD28(+) (9.5 +/- 1.4; P = 0.01). Cyclosporine A (100 ng/ml) inhibited proliferation of CD4(+)CD28(null) cells by 33 +/- 11% versus 68 +/- 12% inhibition of CD4(+)CD28(+) (P = 0.025). FEV(1) fell 6 months later (0.35 +/- 0.04 L) in recipients with CD4(+)CD28(+)/CD4(total) less than 90% (CD28% Low) compared with 0.08 +/- 0.08 L among CD4(+)CD28(+)/CD4(total) (CD28% High) greater than 90% (CD28% High) recipients (P = 0.013). Two-year freedom from death or retransplantation in CD28% Low recipients was 32 +/- 10% versus 78 +/- 6% among the CD28% High subjects (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS CD28 down-regulation on CD4 cells is associated with bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and poor outcomes in lung transplantation recipients. CD4(+)CD28(null) cells have unusual, potentially pathogenic characteristics, and could be important in the progression of allograft dysfunction. These findings may illuminate a novel paradigm of transplantation immunopathogenesis, and suggest that CD28 measurements could identify recipients at risk for clinical deteriorations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Song MK, De Vito Dabbs A, Studer SM, Zangle SE. Course of illness after the onset of chronic rejection in lung transplant recipients. Am J Crit Care 2008; 17:246-253. [PMID: 18450681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the overall negative impact of chronic rejection on quality of life and survival after lung transplant, the specific clinical indicators of deterioration have not been identified. OBJECTIVES To describe the course of illness after the onset of chronic rejection, including demographic and transplant variables, morbidity, mortality, health resource utilization, and end-of-life care, and to identify clinical indicators of deterioration in health and limited survival after the onset of chronic rejection. METHODS The medical records of 311 recipients of lung transplants between 1998 and 2004 were reviewed retrospectively to identify 60 recipients who experienced chronic rejection. RESULTS Median survival after chronic rejection was 31.34 months. Time to rejection (mean, 26.05 months; SD, 16.85) was significantly correlated with overall survival without need of a retransplant (r = 0.64; P < .001). The earlier the onset of chronic rejection or the need for oxygen at home, the shorter was the period of survival after chronic rejection and the more frequent were hospital and intensive care unit admissions and prolonged stays. Of the 26 recipients who died, 65% died at the transplant center, and all but 1 died in the intensive care unit; 3 died after multiple attempts of cardiopulmonary resuscitation; life support was ultimately withdrawn in 69%. CONCLUSIONS Lung transplant recipients who experience chronic graft rejection have high rates of morbidity, mortality, and health resource utilization; however, the course of illness after chronic rejection is highly variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Kyung Song
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7460, USA.
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Abstract
Background Despite the overall negative impact of chronic rejection on quality of life and survival after lung transplant, the specific clinical indicators of deterioration have not been identified.
Objectives To describe the course of illness after the onset of chronic rejection, including demographic and transplant variables, morbidity, mortality, health resource utilization, and end-of-life care, and to identify clinical indicators of deterioration in health and limited survival after the onset of chronic rejection.
Methods The medical records of 311 recipients of lung transplants between 1998 and 2004 were reviewed retrospectively to identify 60 recipients who experienced chronic rejection.
Results Median survival after chronic rejection was 31.34 months. Time to rejection (mean, 26.05 months; SD, 16.85) was significantly correlated with overall survival without need of a retransplant (r = 0.64; P < .001). The earlier the onset of chronic rejection or the need for oxygen at home, the shorter was the period of survival after chronic rejection and the more frequent were hospital and intensive care unit admissions and prolonged stays. Of the 26 recipients who died, 65% died at the transplant center, and all but 1 died in the intensive care unit; 3 died after multiple attempts of cardiopulmonary resuscitation; life support was ultimately withdrawn in 69%.
Conclusions Lung transplant recipients who experience chronic graft rejection have high rates of morbidity, mortality, and health resource utilization; however, the course of illness after chronic rejection is highly variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Kyung Song
- Mi-Kyung Song is an assistant professor in the School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Annette De Vito Dabbs
- Annette De Vito Dabbs is an assistant professor in the Department of Acute and Tertiary Care, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sean M. Studer
- Sean M. Studer is an assistant professor in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - Sarah E. Zangle
- Sarah E. Zangle is staff nurse in the emergency department, Children’s Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
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Stewart S, Fishbein MC, Snell GI, Berry GJ, Boehler A, Burke MM, Glanville A, Gould FK, Magro C, Marboe CC, McNeil KD, Reed EF, Reinsmoen NL, Scott JP, Studer SM, Tazelaar HD, Wallwork JL, Westall G, Zamora MR, Zeevi A, Yousem SA. Revision of the 1996 working formulation for the standardization of nomenclature in the diagnosis of lung rejection. J Heart Lung Transplant 2008; 26:1229-42. [PMID: 18096473 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2007.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 787] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2007] [Revised: 10/30/2007] [Accepted: 10/31/2007] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In 1990, an international grading scheme for the grading of pulmonary allograft rejection was adopted by the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) and was modified in 1995 by an expanded group of pathologists. The original and revised classifications have served the lung transplant community well, facilitating communication between transplant centers with regard to both patient management and research. In 2006, under the direction of the ISHLT, a multi-disciplinary review of the biopsy grading system was undertaken to update the scheme, address inconsistencies of use, and consider the current knowledge of antibody-mediated rejection in the lung. This article summarizes the revised consensus classification of lung allograft rejection. In brief, acute rejection is based on perivascular and interstitial mononuclear infiltrates, Grade A0 (none), Grade A1 (minimal), Grade A2 (mild), Grade A3 (moderate) and Grade A4 (severe), as previously. The revised (R) categories of small airways inflammation, lymphocytic bronchiolitis, are as follows: Grade B0 (none), Grade B1R (low grade, 1996, B1 and B2), Grade B2R (high grade, 1996, B3 and B4) and BX (ungradeable). Chronic rejection, obliterative bronchiolitis (Grade C), is described as present (C1) or absent (C0), without reference to presence of inflammatory activity. Chronic vascular rejection is unchanged as Grade D. Recommendations are made for the evaluation of antibody-mediated rejection, recognizing that this is a controversial entity in the lung, less well developed and understood than in other solid-organ grafts, and with no consensus reached on diagnostic features. Differential diagnoses of acute rejection, airway inflammation and chronic rejection are described and technical considerations revisited. This consensus revision of the working formulation was approved by the ISHLT board of directors in April 2007.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Stewart
- Papworth Everard Pathology Department, Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK.
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Crespo MM, Pilewski JM, Johnson B, Studer SM, McCurry KM, Husain S. PROSPECTIVE ASSESSMENT OF DIAGNOSTIC UTILITY OF DIFFERENT BRONCHOSCOPY SAMPLING MODALITIES FOR BACTERIAL PNEUMONIA IN LUNG TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS. Chest 2007. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.132.4_meetingabstracts.594b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Studer SM, Zhang J, MacNamara D, Alvarez R, Mathier MA. TRANSITION FROM PARENTERAL PROSTANOIDS TO INHALED ILOPROST FOR TREATMENT OF SEVERE PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION: MIDTERM OUTCOMES. Chest 2007. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.132.4_meetingabstracts.635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Raza K, Ismailjee SB, Crespo M, Studer SM, Sanghavi S, Paterson DL, Kwak EJ, Rinaldo CR, Pilewski JM, McCurry KR, Husain S. Successful outcome of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) pneumonia in a lung transplant recipient treated with intravenous ribavirin. J Heart Lung Transplant 2007; 26:862-4. [PMID: 17692793 PMCID: PMC7111659 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2007.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2007] [Revised: 05/16/2007] [Accepted: 05/28/2007] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) has recently been shown to be a prominent cause of respiratory infections in immunocompromised hosts, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. We report a case of hMPV pneumonia in a lung transplant recipient presenting with respiratory failure and sepsis syndrome. hMPV was diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction, and treated with intravenous ribavirin with a successful outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kashif Raza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sameer B. Ismailjee
- Wright School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Maria Crespo
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sean M. Studer
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sonali Sanghavi
- Clinical Virology Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - David L. Paterson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Eun J. Kwak
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Charles R. Rinaldo
- Clinical Virology Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Joseph M. Pilewski
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kenneth R. McCurry
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shahid Husain
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Reprint requests: Shahid Husain, MD, Transplant Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Falk Medical Building, Suite 3A, 3601 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Telephone: 412-648-6442. Fax: 412-648-6399.
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Husain S, Paterson DL, Studer SM, Crespo M, Pilewski J, Durkin M, Wheat JL, Johnson B, McLaughlin L, Bentsen C, McCurry KR, Singh N. Aspergillus Galactomannan Antigen in the Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for the Diagnosis of Invasive Aspergillosis in Lung Transplant Recipients. Transplantation 2007; 83:1330-6. [PMID: 17519782 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000263992.41003.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical utility of Platelia Aspergillus enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for galactomannan (GM) antigen detection in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in lung transplant recipients is not known. METHODS BAL fluid samples from consecutive lung transplant recipients who underwent bronchoscopy were prospectively analyzed for GM. RESULTS A total of 333 BAL samples from 116 patients were tested. Invasive aspergillosis was documented in 5.2% (6/116) of the patients. Samples analyzed included 9 BALs from two patients with proven IA, 19 BALs from four patients with probable IA, and 305 BALs from 110 patients without IA. At the index cutoff value of > or =0.5, the sensitivity was 60%; specificity was 95%, with positive and negative likelihood ratios of 14 and 0.41, respectively. Increasing the index cutoff value to > or =1.0 yielded a sensitivity of 60%, a specificity of 98%, and the positive and negative likelihood ratios of 28 and 0.40, respectively. Two of six patients with IA receiving antifungal prophylaxis had false-negative results. CONCLUSIONS A Platelia EIA index cut-off > or =1.0 in the BAL fluid in a lung transplant recipient with a compatible clinical illness may be considered as suggestive of IA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Husain
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15240, USA
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Abstract
The integrated effect of multiple pathways, molecules, genetic polymorphisms, environmental stimuli, and possible infection determines the lung phenotype in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic progressive and often lethal lung disease. Systems biology approaches aim to provide a systemwide view of biological process using computational tools and high-throughput technologies. Although much of the analysis of genome-level transcriptional high-resolution profiles of IPF was reductionist, usually focusing on a single factor in the disease process, there are some studies that implement systems approaches. We discuss these analyses and provide examples of the global analysis of IPF, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia. Detailed quantitative phenotyping and correlation with microarray results as well as high-throughput genotyping should provide us with the datasets to implement systems biology approaches in fibrosis research. Interdisciplinary teams and training of junior investigators in the vocabulary of systems biology should allow us to use these datasets integratively and generate a global model of human pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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De Vito Dabbs A, Johnson BA, Wardzinski WT, Iacono AT, Studer SM. Evaluation of the Electronic Version of the Questionnaire for Lung Transplant Patients. Prog Transplant 2007; 17:29-35. [PMID: 17484242 DOI: 10.1177/152692480701700104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Context Recent modifications to the QLTP (Questionnaire for Lung Transplant Patients), including changing items from dichotomous to multiple dimension scaling, adding psychological symptoms, and converting to an electronic format (e-QLTP), made it necessary to reevaluate its reliability, validity, recipient satisfaction, and feasibility of administering the e-QLTP in the clinical setting. Purpose To report the final modifications, psychometric properties, recipient satisfaction, and feasibility of administering the e-QLTP, a patient report outcome measure of symptoms and activity tolerance. Methods Sixty lung recipients completed the original QLTP and the e-QLTP and rated their satisfaction with the e-version during a routine posttransplant evaluation; 65% (38 of 60) also completed a retest version. Correlations were computed for retest stability, concurrent validity between versions of the QLTP, and construct validity among the subscales of the e-QLTP and forced expiratory volumes in 1 second. Using the After Scenario Questionnaire, participants rated their satisfaction with the ease, amount of time, and support information when completing the e-QLTP. Results The e-QLTP and subscales were internally consistent (α=.73-.90) and stable (intraclass correlations = .47-.93). Significant correlations ( P = .001) were found between the e-QLTP and the original QLTP ( r=0.53–0.56) and between the e-QLTP subscales and forced expiratory volumes in 1 second ( r = 0.51–0.53). The overall mean satisfaction score was 1.27 (± 0.47). Conclusions The e-QLTP is a reliable and valid measure of physical and psychological symptoms after lung transplantation. It is feasible to complete in the clinical setting and recipients are highly satisfied with its use. Its computerized functionality enhances assessment and management of symptoms over time.
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Abstract
While there is little doubt that proper donor selection is extremely important to achieve good outcomes from transplantation, there are only limited data regarding the current criteria utilized to select the "ideal donor". Importantly, there are not enough donor lungs available for all of those in need. Until an adequate supply of donor organs exists, lives will be lost on the transplant waiting list. While efforts have been made to increase donor awareness, additional transplants can be realized by improving donor utilization. This can be achieved by active participation of transplant teams in donor management and by utilizing "extended criteria" organs. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of using "extended criteria" donors, as this practice could result in increased posttransplant morbidity and mortality. This article summarizes the approach to identification of potential lung donors, optimal donor management, and the clinical importance of various donor factors upon recipient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Abstract
Translation initiation is a key step for regulating the synthesis of several proteins. In bacteria, translation initiation involves the interaction of the mRNA with the ribosomal small subunit. Additionally, translation initiation factors 1, 2, and 3, and the initiator tRNA, also assemble on the ribosomal small subunit and are essential for efficiently recruiting an mRNA for protein biosynthesis. In the following chapter, we describe fluorescence-based methods for studying the interaction of mRNA with the bacterial initiation complex. Model mRNAs with a covalently attached fluorescent probe showed an increase in fluorescence intensity when bound to the bacterial initiation complex. Utilizing the increase in fluorescence intensity upon mRNA binding to the bacterial initiation complex, we determined the equilibrium binding constants and the association and dissociation rate constants. These methods are important for quantitatively analyzing the effects of mRNA secondary structure and the role of the initiation factors in recruitment of mRNA by the bacterial initiation complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, USA
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Orens JB, Boehler A, de Perrot M, Estenne M, Glanville AR, Keshavjee S, Kotloff R, Morton J, Studer SM, Van Raemdonck D, Waddel T, Snell GI. International guidelines for the selection of lung transplant candidates: 2006 update--a consensus report from the Pulmonary Scientific Council of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 2006; 22:1183-200. [PMID: 14585380 DOI: 10.1016/s1053-2498(03)00096-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Capitano B, Potoski BA, Husain S, Zhang S, Paterson DL, Studer SM, McCurry KR, Venkataramanan R. Intrapulmonary penetration of voriconazole in patients receiving an oral prophylactic regimen. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2006; 50:1878-80. [PMID: 16641467 PMCID: PMC1472209 DOI: 10.1128/aac.50.5.1878-1880.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Voriconazole penetrated well into the pulmonary epithelial lining fluid (ELF) in lung transplant patients receiving oral prophylaxis. The ELF concentrations exceeded those of the plasma, with an average ELF-to-plasma ratio of 11 (+/-8). A strong association between plasma and ELF concentrations (r(2) = 0.95) was noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair Capitano
- School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, 720 Salk Hall, 3501 Terrace St., Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
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Studer SM, Joseph S. Unfolding of mRNA secondary structure by the bacterial translation initiation complex. Mol Cell 2006; 22:105-15. [PMID: 16600874 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2006.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2005] [Revised: 01/25/2006] [Accepted: 02/07/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Translation initiation is a key step for regulating the level of numerous proteins within the cell. In bacteria, the 30S initiation complex directly binds to the translation initiation region (TIR) of the mRNA. How the ribosomal 30S subunit assembles on highly structured TIR is not known. Using fluorescence-based experiments, we assayed 12 different mRNAs that form secondary structures with various stabilities and contain Shine-Dalgarno (SD) sequences of different strengths. A strong correlation was observed between the stability of the mRNA structure and the association and dissociation rate constants. Interestingly, in the presence of initiation factors and initiator tRNA, the association kinetics of structured mRNAs showed two distinct phases. The second phase was found to be important for unfolding structured mRNAs to form a stable 30S initiation complex. We show that unfolding of structured mRNAs requires a SD sequence, the start codon, fMet-tRNA(fMet), and the GTP bound form of initiation factor 2 bound to the 30S subunit.
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MESH Headings
- Codon, Initiator/genetics
- Codon, Initiator/metabolism
- Eukaryotic Initiation Factor-2/metabolism
- Kinetics
- Nucleic Acid Conformation
- Peptide Chain Initiation, Translational
- Protein Biosynthesis
- RNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- RNA, Bacterial/genetics
- RNA, Bacterial/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/chemistry
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Ribosomal/chemistry
- RNA, Ribosomal/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal/metabolism
- RNA, Transfer, Met
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
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Studer SM, Levy RD, McNeil K, Orens JB. Lung transplant outcomes: a review of survival, graft function, physiology, health-related quality of life and cost-effectiveness. Eur Respir J 2005; 24:674-85. [PMID: 15459149 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.04.00065004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The success of lung transplantation has improved over time as evidenced by better long-term survival and functional outcomes. Despite the success of this procedure, there are numerous problems and complications that may develop over the life of a lung transplant recipient. With proper monitoring and treatment, the frequency and severity of these problems can be decreased. However, significant improvement for the overall outcomes of lung transplantation will only occur when better methods exist to prevent or effectively treat chronic rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Studer
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, 1830 E Monument St, 5th floor, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Abstract
The current availability of lung donors is far exceeded by the number of potential transplant recipients who are waiting for an organ. This disparity results in significant morbidity and mortality for those on the waiting list. Although it is desirable to increase overall consent rates for organ donation, doing so requires an intervention to affect societal response. In contrast, increased procurement of organs from marginal donors and improved donor management may be realized through increased study and practice changes within the transplant community. Transplantation of organs from marginal or extended-criteria donors may result in some increase in complications or mortality, but this possibility must be weighed against the morbidity and risk of death risk faced by individuals on the waiting list. The effects of this trade-off are currently being studied in kidney transplantation, and perhaps in the near future lung transplantation may benefit from a similar analysis. Until that time, the limited data regarding criteria for donor acceptability must be incorporated into practice to maximize the overall benefits of lung transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3459 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburg, PA 15213, USA
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Merlo CA, Studer SM, Conte JV, Yang SC, Sonnett J, Orens JB. The course of neurofibromatosis type 1 on immunosuppression after lung transplantation: report of 2 cases. J Heart Lung Transplant 2004; 23:774-6. [PMID: 15366441 DOI: 10.1016/s1053-2498(03)00265-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe 2 patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) who underwent lung transplantation. Case 1 reports a patient with NF1 with no complications 5 years after bilateral lung transplantation. Case 2 details a patient with NF1 diagnosed with both post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) and massive intra-abdominal sarcoma consistent with a malignant nerve sheath tumor 9 months after lung transplantation. There was no clinical evidence of sarcoma preceding or immediately following lung transplant as demonstrated by a normal abdominal sonogram 3 months post-transplantation. Although an increased risk for cancer has been documented in NF1, the rapid malignant degeneration of a neurofibroma following transplantation raises concern about immunosuppression and transplantation candidacy among individuals with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A Merlo
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Abstract
Precise and coordinated movement of the tRNA-mRNA complex within the ribosome is a fundamental step during protein biosynthesis. The molecular mechanism for this process is still poorly understood. Here we describe a new sensitive method for monitoring elongation factor G-dependent translocation of the mRNA in the ribosome. In this method, the fluorescent probe pyrene is covalently attached to the 3' end of a short mRNA sequence at position +9. Translocation of the mRNA by one codon results in a significant decrease in the fluorescence emission of pyrene and can be used to directly monitor mRNA movement using rapid kinetic methods. Importantly, this method offers the flexibility of using any tRNA or tRNA analog in order to elucidate the molecular mechanism of translocation. Our results show that the mRNA is translocated at the same rate as the tRNAs, which is consistent with the view that the movement of the tRNAs and the mRNA are coupled in the ribosome. Furthermore, an anticodon stem-loop analog of tRNA is translocated from the ribosomal A site at a rate constant that is 350-fold lower than peptidyl tRNA, indicating that the D stem, T stem and acceptor stem of A site tRNA contribute significantly to the rate of translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla 92093-0314, USA
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Abstract
We report a case of a 32-year-old woman who, after passage of broncholiths, developed a mediastinal abscess that required surgical drainage for treatment. Previously reported infectious complications resulting from broncholiths include obstructive pneumonitis and recurrent aspiration pneumonitis secondary to bronchoesophageal fistulas. Because radiographic evidence of abnormal calcification in the chest is common, but rarely is associated with broncholithiasis, the patient's history of lithoptysis was crucial to determining the underlying etiology of her abscess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Studer
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Studer SM, Orens JB, Rosas I, Krishnan JA, Cope KA, Yang S, Conte JV, Becker PB, Risby TH. Patterns and significance of exhaled-breath biomarkers in lung transplant recipients with acute allograft rejection. J Heart Lung Transplant 2001; 20:1158-66. [PMID: 11704475 DOI: 10.1016/s1053-2498(01)00343-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obliterative bronchiolitis (OB) remains one of the leading causes of death in lung transplant recipients after 2 years, and acute rejection (AR) of lung allograft is a major risk factor for OB. Treatment of AR may reduce the incidence of OB, although diagnosis of AR often requires bronchoscopic lung biopsy. In this study, we evaluated the utility of exhaled-breath biomarkers for the non-invasive diagnosis of AR. METHODS We obtained breath samples from 44 consecutive lung transplant recipients who attended ambulatory follow-up visits for the Johns Hopkins Lung Transplant Program. Bronchoscopy within 7 days of their breath samples showed histopathology in 21 of these patients, and we included them in our analysis. We measured hydrocarbon markers of pro-oxidant events (ethane and 1-pentane), isoprene, acetone, and sulfur-containing compounds (hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide) in exhaled breath and compared their levels to the lung histopathology, graded as stable (non-rejection) or AR. None of the study subjects were diagnosed with OB or infection at the time of the clinical bronchoscopy. RESULTS We found no significant difference in exhaled levels of hydrocarbons, acetone, or hydrogen sulfide between the stable and AR groups. However, we did find significant increase in exhaled carbonyl sulfide (COS) levels in AR subjects compared with stable subjects. We also observed a trend in 7 of 8 patients who had serial sets of breath and histopathology data that supported a role for COS as a breath biomarker of AR. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated elevations in exhaled COS levels in subjects with AR compared with stable subjects, suggesting a diagnostic role for this non-invasive biomarker. Further exploration of breath analysis in lung transplant recipients is warranted to complement fiberoptic bronchoscopy and obviate the need for this procedure in some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Studer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Studer SM, Terry PB. A 48-yr-old female with headache and dyspnoea. Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation. Eur Respir J 2001; 17:1328-31. [PMID: 11491181 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.01.00205101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S M Studer
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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