Nadir creatinine predicts long-term bladder function in boys with posterior urethral valves

INTRODUCTION

Posterior urethral valves (PUV) cause lower urinary tract obstruction leading to increased intravesical pressure during fetal urinary tract development. Though the bladder and kidneys are separate organs, with different embryological origins, they are complementary and influence each other both before and after birth. We aimed to assess the relationship between renal and bladder function in boys with PUV and whether early renal markers could predict future bladder function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We included all boys with prenatally suspected lower urinary tract obstruction, born between 2000 and 2013, in two University Hospitals, with at least 5 years follow-up. We excluded patients who presented a Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction other than PUV, children who presented multiple birth defects and neonatal deaths and those with incomplete long-term renal or bladder function data. We included data on nadir creatinine (NC), long-term renal function and long-term bladder function (defined by Uroflow parameters). Boys with PUV were divided into three severity groups for renal function according to their NC and three severity groups for bladder function as determined by Uroflow.

RESULTS

We included 73 boys. Average nadir creatinine was 43.4 ± 26.1 μmol/L. Twenty-nine boys (49.3%) presented a NC < 35 μmol/L, thirty-eight (52.1%) a NC between 35 and 75 μmol/L, and 6 (8.2%) a NC > 75 μmol/L. Thirty-eight (52.1%) presented normal bladder function, 23 (31.5%) presented moderately impaired bladder function and 12 (16.4%) presented severely impaired bladder function. 41.4% of boys with NC < 35 had abnormal bladder function vs 46.2% of those with an NC between 35 and 75 μmol/L and 83.3% of boys with NC > 75 μmol/L. Nadir creatinine both predicted both bladder function and renal status (table 1). Correlation between presence of grade 3-5 CKD and poor uroflow was also significant (p < 0.005).

DISCUSSION

Nadir creatinine was significantly correlated to bladder function at 5 years of age. What this study suggests is that as nadir creatinine increases so does the risk of severe bladder dysfunction. Our results, though limited to flowmeter and renal function, could help pediatric urologist tailor bladder function monitoring, and indicate which patients could benefit from more aggressive bladder therapy.

CONCLUSION

Bladder and renal function are linked in boys with posterior urethral valves. Boys with high nadir creatinine could benefit from early bladder function evaluation and management.

Evaluating the impact of pop-off mechanisms in boys with posterior urethral valves

INTRODUCTION

Posterior urethral valves are urethral leaflets that cause Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction (LUTO) in boys and are associated with congenital renal dysplasia and abnormal bladder function. They affect 1:4,000 to 1:25,000 births and can be responsible for End-Stage Renal Failure in childhood. There have been several studies on the effect of pop-off mechanisms in boys with posterior urethral valves, but results are contradictory. We aimed to assess and discuss the effect of pop-off mechanisms on renal function in a large cohort of patients.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Boys with PUV with and without pop-off mechanisms (urinoma, VURD or giant bladder diverticula) were divided into three severity groups for renal function according to their nadir creatinine (low-risk NC < 35 μmol/L, intermediate-risk NC between 35 and 75 μmol/L, and high-risk NC > 75 μmol/L). We compared children with and children without pop-off mechanisms for mean renal function as well as patient distribution within each severity group.

RESULTS

We included 137 boys of which 39 had a pop-off mechanism. Patients had complete data for at least 5 years follow-up. Though there was no significant statistical difference in mean renal function between the pop-off and non-pop-off group, patient distribution within each severity group varied according to whether patients had a pop-off mechanism or not.

CONCLUSION

Though there was no significant difference in mean renal function between boys with and without pop-off mechanisms, it is possible that these are two different patient populations and direct comparison is not possible.

Circumcision and Risk of Febrile Urinary Tract Infection in Boys with Posterior Urethral Valves: Result of the CIRCUP Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Boys with posterior urethral valves (PUVs) have an increased risk of febrile urinary tract infections (fUTIs). Circumcision is believed to reduce the risk of fUTIs in boys, although there are no randomized trials demonstrating this.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of circumcision on the risk of fUTIs in boys with PUVs.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A clinical randomized trial that ran between August 2012 and July 2017 was conducted. The trial was multicentric, including 13 referral centers for pediatric urology. Male boys, aged 1-28 d, diagnosed with posterior urethral valves, confirmed by voiding cystogram, were included. The exclusion criteria included presence of a genital malformation contraindicating performing a circumcision.

INTERVENTION

Participants were randomized to neonatal circumcision + antibiotic prophylaxis (CATB) or antibiotic prophylaxis alone (ATB), and followed for 2 yr.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary outcome was a risk of presenting fUTIs in each group. An fUTI was defined as fever (>38.5 °C) with evidence of pyuria and culture-proven infection on urinalysis, obtained by urethral catheterization or suprapubic aspiration. A bivariate analysis of the primary outcome was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

In total, 91 patients were included: 49 in group CATB and 42 in group ATB. The probability of presenting an fUTI was 20% in group ATB versus 3% in group CATB. The hazard ratio of presenting an fUTI within 2 yr in the ATB group compared with that in the CATB group was 10.3 (95% confidence interval: 1.3-82.5). Sixty-four children (70.3%) had a complete follow-up at 2 yr of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Circumcision significantly decreases the risk of presenting an fUTI in boys with PUVs.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this report, we compared, in a multicentric trial, the number of febrile urinary tract infections (UTIs) in boys with posterior urethral valves who had either antibiotic prophylaxis alone or antibiotic prophylaxis and circumcision. We found that those who had a circumcision had a significantly lower risk of febrile UTIs.

Cortical transit time as a predictive marker of the need for surgery in children with pelvi-ureteric junction stenosis: preliminary study

INTRODUCTION

Postnatal management of prenatally detected hydronephrosis remains controversial. It has been suggested that cortical transit time (CTT) could successfully predict deterioration in children with pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction. We decided to conduct a retrospective study in our hydronephrosis population to evaluate whether initial CTT was significantly correlated with the need for surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

We reviewed the charts of all our patients managed for significant PUJ obstruction (>12 mm) between 2007 and 2010 and determined CTT retrospectively, on the first diuretic scan of each of these patients. We then determined the relationship between initial CTT and the need for surgery.

RESULTS

We identified 37 patients with hydronephrosis (pelvic size >12 mm) of which 26 were diagnosed prenatally. Out of 22 patients with an initial abnormal CTT, 20 underwent surgery. Out of 15 children with a normal initial CTT, 4 underwent surgery (OR 27.5 (IC95%: 4.3-174.9)).

CONCLUSION

Initial CTT could be a reliable prognostic factor for future evolution of renal function in children with hydronephrosis. CTT is easy to determine on diuretic renal scan. A prospective trial is being devised to confirm what role it could have in the management of children with hydronephrosis.

[Anorectal malformations]

Anorectal malformations (ARM) are the result of an abnormal development of the terminal part of the digestive tract interesting anus and/or rectum that occur early between the sixth and tenth week of embryonic development. They carry a malformation spectrum of severity depending on the level of disruption of the anorectal canal and of the associated caudal malformations (sacrum and spine). ARM are associated in over half the cases with other malformations that can be integrated in some cases in known syndromes. If surgical treatment to restore anatomy as normal as possible is indispensable, post-operative care is essential for these patients whose defecation mechanisms are altered, to reach if not continence, at least a socially acceptable cleanliness.

Combined laparoscopic-assisted nephrectomy, augmentation ureterocystoplasty and Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy

Conventional and robotic-assisted laparoscopy is being used for more and more complex urological procedures in children. There have recently been reports of laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted appendicovesicostomies in children. We report a case of combined laparoscopic-assisted nephrectomy, augmentation ureterocystoplasty and Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy in a 5-year-old boy with valve bladder syndrome.

Penile length is comparable in boys with and without hypospadias

INTRODUCTION

It has been suggested that penile length is negatively correlated to the degree of hypospadias; however, there are no studies in the literature actually comparing penile length in normal patients and patients with hypospadias.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Between January and May 2011, we measured penile length in two groups of children aged up to 5 years. The first group comprised all boys admitted for hypospadias (40 patients; 25 distal and 15 proximal hypospadias). The control group comprised 100 boys seen for other surgical procedures excluding those with endocrine disorders. We measured the length of the dorsal aspect of the penis in the flaccid state, without stretching. We then established, using our control group, a range of 'normal' values for penile length in our population and determined whether children with hypospadias were within this 'normal' range.

RESULTS

Mean penile length in the control group was 4.07 ± 0.92 cm, mean penile length in the hypospadias group was 4.36 ± 0.9 cm (4.48 ± 0.89 cm for distal hypospadias and 4.21 ± 0.79 cm for proximal hypospadias). There was no difference in penile length between the hypospadias group and the control group regardless of degree of hypospadias.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that penile length in children with hypospadias whether proximal or distal is within the normal range.

Should we perform orchidopexy for cryptorchidism in children with severe encephalopathy?

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a survey of practices in France concerning cryptorchidism in patients presenting with severe encephalopathy.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We conducted an e-mail survey of current practices in 27 pediatric surgery departments in 27 French university or general hospitals. The study concerned children with severe mental deficiency.

RESULTS

The survey showed a disparity in attitudes towards cryptorchidism in patients with severe encephalopathy, ranging from no treatment to orchidopexy in all cases. In most cases, the indication for surgery was the psychological aspect for the parents or accessibility to clinical examination.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey illustrates the unease concerning the pertinence of performing orchidopexy in these children. As improved fertility is not really an issue in children with severe encephalopathy, psychological aspects apply only to the family, and, as the benefit of orchidopexy for prevention or early diagnosis of testicular cancer is marginal, the risk/benefit ratio of orchidopexy for children with severe encephalopathy and cryptorchidism is unclear.

[Fractures of the ankylosed spine: MRI features]

The diagnosis of transverse spinal fractures in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and Forestier's disease (DISH) may be difficult. The MRI features of 9 such fractures at the disk, vertebral body, spinal canal and posterior elements are presented. Fractures of the posterior elements (posterior arch fractures and/or rupture of interspinous or supraspinous ligaments and contiguous soft tissue structures) were present in all cases, underscoring the importance of MR signal abnormalities of posterior structures for diagnosis of these fractures. MR is advantageous due to its ability to demonstrate signal abnormalities of the posterior elements, which combined with disk and vertebral body abnormalities, play a major role for accurate diagnosis of this type of fracture.

Successful management of a retroperitoneal kaposiform hemangioendothelioma with Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon using alpha-interferon

It has been shown recently that Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon, the association of a vascular tumour and consumption coagulopathy, does not--as previously thought--complicate "classical" infantile hemangiomas but distinctive entities called kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) and tufted angioma (TA), both tumours on the same neoplastic spectrum. These tumours have been found in the neck, face, thorax, abdomen, retroperitoneum and limbs and are associated with a mortality rate of as high as 30 %. Several therapeutic modalities, including alpha-interferon, vincristine, radiotherapy and surgery have been reported in the literature. We report a case of retroperitoneal kaposiform hemangioendothelioma regression using alpha-interferon and discuss the current knowledge of this entity and its treatment.

Infiltration foraminale L5-S1 radioguidée dans le traitement de la lombosciatique S1

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of fluoroscopy guided L5-S1 transforaminal steroid injections for the treatment of S1 radiculopathy secondary to intervertebral disk disorder.

METHOD

41 patients were included: prospective study (20 patients) and retrospective study (21 patients). All patients suffered from S1 radiculopathy secondary to nerve root compression by intervertebral disk material, as demonstrated by lumbar spine CT. The patients underwent 2 fluoroscopy guided L5-S1 transforaminal injections of steroid (Hydrocotancyl 125 mg), at 8 days interval.

RESULTS

60% of patients showed significant improvement of their painful radiculopathy at day 8 (n:41), 60-67% at day 30 (n:41) and 67% at day 90 (n:18).

CONCLUSION

Fluoroscopy guided L5-S1 transforaminal injection showed good efficacy in the treatment of S1 radiculopathy.

Peritoneal needle suction for intestinal perforation in the preterm neonate

A few years ago, most intestinal perforations in the premature newborn appeared within the clinical context of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Since then, we have observed an increase in the number of isolated perforations appearing outside typical NEC. The fact that the perforations are more often isolated, and the healing capabilities of the premature intestine, led us to propose peritoneal needle suction (PNS) alone as first treatment for intestinal perforations in the premature neonate.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

The charts of 6 consecutive premature infants presenting with intestinal perforations treated initially by PNS alone were reviewed.

RESULTS

The patients' median birth weight was 1030 g, with a median gestational age of 27 weeks. In 5 out of 6 infants (83 %), PNS achieved complete exsufflation without recurrence of the pneumoperitoneum and complete intestinal healing, allowing complete enteral feeding 30 to 71 days after perforation. One infant with recurrent pneumoperitoneum after 3 PNS and peritoneal drainage was operated. All infants survived.

CONCLUSION

We believe that for early perforations of the premature neonate, the poor diffusion of the infection and the frequent capacity of the perforation to close and subsequently heal without scars, favour a minimally invasive management using PNS.

Interest of laparoscopy in polysplenia syndrome

Polysplenia syndrome (PS) is usually discovered in symptomatic patients in association with congenital heart disease or biliary atresia. Asymptomatic patients can present associated anomalies of the digestive tract such as intestinal malrotation and gastric or splenic malfixation. We report a case of PS presenting as a left flank mass shown to be an accessory spleen by denatured red blood cell scintigraphy. Upper gastrointestinal tract studies showed intestinal malrotation. Laparoscopic exploration confirmed intestinal malrotation and showed the absence of fixation of the accessory spleen. We performed a laparoscopic Ladd's procedure followed by fixation of the accessory spleen and resection of Meckel's diverticulum through a short left-flank incision.

[Pulmonary nodules: dosimetric and clinical studies at low dose multidetector CT]

PURPOSE

To measure breast radiation dose from multidetector CT using three different low dose protocols and compare it to a standard two view chest examination. To compare the number of pulmonary nodules detected at low and standard dose.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thermoluminescent dosimetry was used to measure the absorbed dose on a phantom (Rando) and 10 patients. Then, we compared the standard dose to the low dose examinations. The Wilcoxon rank test and the kappa test were used to assess differences in the detection of nodules.

RESULTS

The absorbed dose of these low dose protocols correspond to the radiation dose for the acquisition of two to ten chest radiographs (two views). This study suggests that only the 30 mA protocol is sufficient for the detection of all pulmonary nodules; nodules smaller than 5 mm were overlooked at 10 mA.

CONCLUSION

A good image quality can be obtained with low dose protocols at multidetector CT (correspond to 2 to 10 chest radiographs).

[POEMS syndrome: imaging of skeletal manifestations, a study of 8 cases]

PURPOSE

To describe the imaging features of POEMS, and to compare our experience of 8 cases to a review of literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 8 patients (6 men, 2 women) with POEMS. Plain radiographs (8 patients), CT (6), MR (2) were performed.

RESULTS

Topographic localizations of POEMS were pelvis (7 cases), spine (5), femur (1), humerus (1), rib cage (1). Focal bone lesions, multiple (5 cases) or solitary (3 cases), were sclerotic in 4 cases, mixed lytic-sclerotic (lytic center and sclerotic rim) in 3 cases and one patient had an osteolytic lesion with sclerotic margins associated with many osteosclerotic lesions. Profilerative osseous changes were seen in 4 cases (pelvis, spine, tibia). MR imaging was performed in 2 patients: in one patient MR imaging revealed areas of low signal intensity on spin echo T1- and T2-weighted images in vertebral bodies, the other showed a lesion of low signal intensity on spin echo T1-weighted and high signal intensity on T2-weighted images in the ilium and adjacent soft tissue.

CONCLUSION

The imaging features commonly observed in POEMS syndrome are sclerotic and mixed lytic-sclerotic lesions, particularly in the pelvis and spine. Proliferative new bone formation is detected in 50%. MR imaging correlates with ostesclerotic or mixed lytic-sclerotic appearance.

[Priapism in the course of generalized atopic dermatitis]

BACKGROUND

Priapism is a pathologically prolonged and painful penile erection, not resulting in ejaculation. Causes include certain oral medication, perineal trauma, thrombo-embolic process or primary priapism. We report a case of priapism secondary to diffuse general atopic dermatitis.

CASE REPORT

An 11 year-old child, with atopic dermatitis, presented over the last 36 hours an irreduced painful penile erection. Other than priapism, he presented numerous scratched lesions on the body and the penis having developped over the last 2 months (treated by daily topical corticosteroid application) and consistent with atopic dermatitis exacerbation. Due to the urological emergency, a puncture of the corpora cavernosa was made, followed by an injection of etilephrine in the penis. Complete and definitive detumescence was obtained. Application of betamethasone healed the cutaneous lesions. The child was treated with ciclosporine for his atopic dermatitis with good results at 6 months.

DISCUSSION

In our case, hypothesis of myeloid leukemia, sickle-cell disease and essential thrombocythemia were turned down. The young child did not exhibit any recent perineal trauma but the scratched lesions can be considered as microtraumas. The formation of an inflammatory oedema obstructed venous drainage of the penis and provoked priapism. We can not rule out the responsibility of topical corticosteroids in the formation of the priapism in this patient. Indeed, it was the only drug therapy prescribed, and since introduction of ciclosporine, there has been no relapse.

Indications and results of surgery in patients with Crohn's disease with onset under 10 years of age: a series of 18 patients

In order to examine the presentation and course of Crohn's disease (CD) with an onset of CD before the age of 10 and to assess indications and effects of surgery, a retrospective study was performed in 18 children. One hundred and twenty-two children with CD have been followed over the last 22 years in our institution. Thirty of them had the first onset of disease before 10 years of age. Eighteen out of these 30 underwent intestinal resection (IR). The mean age at the onset of CD was 6.4 years and the average duration of follow-up was 11.1 years. Most common symptoms were abdominal pain (72 %), diarrhoea (72 %), and growth retardation (50 %). Colon and ileum were the most frequently involved areas. Most of the children (94.5 %) received extensive medical and or nutritional treatment before surgery. We performed 26 IRs and 14 other operations in 18 patients. Indications for IR were chronic intestinal obstruction (13 cases) and chronic intestinal disability (13 cases). Improvements in the general clinical state were obtained in 17 cases out of 18. IR is beneficial for chronically ill children with ineffective medical therapy. A disease-free interval after surgery may provide an important time for improved growth and pubertal development and a return to nearly normal life for a long time.

[Treatment of giant congenital nevus with high-energy pulsed CO2 laser]

All authors agree upon the need for early treatment of giant congenital nevi. The surgeon must seek to minimize the risk of malignancy. The objective calls for radical excision of all pigmented areas; this may be impossible because of the risk of leaving the patient with disfiguring scars. The aim of this study was to assess treatment of giant congenital nevi with the high-energy pulsed CO2 laser as an alternative to surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1998 and 1999, the high-energy pulsed CO2 laser was used in nine newborns and five children.

RESULTS

The treatment with the high-energy pulsed CO2 laser achieved 70-90% clearing of the giant nevi in most of the children. Two children developed hypertrophic scars on a companion nevi and on giant congenital nevi. One child required a skin graft because of tissue necrosis, associated with a disseminated intravascular coagulation and septic shock.

DISCUSSION

Laser is a surface technique proposed when surgical excision cannot be performed because the surface is too large or the localization is incompatible with surgery. Early treatment, in the first 15 days, is not required for the quality of the cosmetic result. The high-energy pulsed CO2 laser provides satisfactory cosmetic results with short cicatrisation time. It allows the treatment of the companion nevi at the same time. The risk of malignant transformation is greatly but not totally reduced. Regular clinical surveillance should help reduce the risk.

[A case of hepatic pseudoaneurysm treated with percutaneous embolization in a child with multiple trauma]

Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysms are rare complications of blunt abdominal trauma in children. Diagnosis is frequently delayed and made by splanchnic angiography. Most of the indications for surgical treatment have disappeared after the development of selective catheterization and embolization. We report a case in an 8-year-old pedestrian who was struck by a car and suffered a multiple trauma with a severe blunt abdominal trauma. A severe collapse upon admission commanded immediate laparotomy that depicted a liver fracture with associated jejunal and pancreatic lesions. Recovery was progressive until the 15th postoperative day where an abrupt haemobilia occurred. A CT-scan exploration was performed and revealed a vascular mass lesion in the left lobe of the liver. The performance of a selective angiography confirmed the diagnosis of left artery pseudoaneurysm, but because of technical difficulties, no embolization could be performed by this way. A direct percutaneous puncture and embolization of the aneurysm allowed a complete exclusion of the lesion. Eventually, recovery was complete. This percutaneous technique could be a valuable alternative to classical embolization and could avoid surgical treatment that still carries a high morbidity.

Resurfacing CO2 laser treatment of linear verrucous epidermal nevus

The term linear epidermal nevus (LVEN) refers to benign hyperplasia of the epidermis. Three types of LVEN can be distinguished: localized, systemic and inflammatory form. All have in common resistance to treatment and risk of recurrence. We report the observations of 5 patients with inflammatory linear verrucous epidermal nevus and 5 patients with linear verrucous epidermal nevus. Management by superpulsed CO2 laser was performed as follows: test treatment, completed by removal of the lesion in one or more sessions. Treatment was effective in all cases but 2. Satisfactory cosmetic results were obtained; slight hyperpigmentation, transitory desquamation and erythematous papules were observed. There was no recurrence in two years follow-up. We suppose that for the two patients with recurrence, our treatment failure is due to the lower laser parameters used in these patients compared to the others, because of their younger age.

Urological complications after renal transplantation using ureteroureteral anastomosis in children

PURPOSE

Ureterovesical reimplantation is most often performed for renal transplantation in children. We reviewed our experience to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ureteroureteral reimplantation in pediatric renal transplantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the charts of 92 boys and 72 girls who underwent a total of 166 ureteroureteral anastomoses for renal transplantation from January 1990 to December 1999. Spatulated end-to-end anastomosis was performed between recipient and graft ureters without stenting and with a bladder catheter for at least 10 days.

RESULTS

Mean patient age at transplantation was 11.2 years (range 1 to 21.5). There were 22 living related donor and 144 cadaveric grafts. Urological anomalies and nephropathy were the cause of end stage renal disease in 146 and 20 patients, respectively. Urological complications were noted in 14 of the 166 transplantations (8.4%) in 10 boys and 4 girls, including 12 initial and 2 repeat grafts from 2 living related and 12 cadaveric donors. Five of these patients had undergone previous urological surgery. The 2 children (1.2%) with acute ureteral obstruction underwent repeat intervention after stent failure. Anastomotic leakage in 7 cases (4.2%) was treated conservatively in 1 and with a Double-J stent (Medical Engineering Corp., New York, New York) only required in 3. Reoperation was required in 3 cases. One patient (0.6%) with late ureteral stenosis underwent repeat anastomosis, 1 (0.6%) required reimplantation for recurrent pyelonephritis due to vesicoureteral reflux in the graft, 1 (0.6%) with a valve bladder required bladder augmentation and ureteral reimplantation, and 1 (0.6%) with lymphocele and 1 (0.6%) with lithiasis were successfully treated conservatively. Complications were associated with acute rejection in 6 cases. Mean followup without graft loss in patients who presented with versus without complications was 58.3 months (range 1 to 112) versus 75 (range 1 to 118). In the former patients with a mean age of 16 years 9 months versus those without urological complications mean serum creatinine was 116 and 108 mol./l., respectively. Two grafts were lost in patients with urological complications, including 1 who died of pulmonary embolism and 1 with refractory chronic rejection. Seven patients were lost to followup after 54 months (range 12 to 113) of adequate graft function.

CONCLUSIONS

Ureteroureteral anastomosis is a safe and effective technique for pediatric renal transplantation with a low complication rate, which may be due to better vascularization of the shorter ureteral end of the graft. Our results should encourage the use of this technique in pediatric renal transplantation. Efforts to preserve the recipient ureters should be made at nephrectomy.

[An assessment of low-dose high resolution CT in the detection of benign asbestos-related pleural abnormalities]

PURPOSE

To assess the reliability of low-dose high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in the detection of benign asbestos-related pleural abnormalities.

METHODS

Fourty-one patients exposed to asbestos were imaged on two occasions; the first time with conventional HRCT parameters: 140kVp, 220mAs; the second time with low-dose HRCT parameters: 120kVp, 60mAs.

RESULTS

The qualitative assessment dit not show any difference in the visibility of benign pleural abnormalities from one technique to the other in 98% cases.

CONCLUSION

The detection of pleural plaques and thickening did not vary with the two scanning protocols and, when compared with conventional HRCT, low-dose HRCT allows reduced radiation exposure by at least 76.5%, with an absorbed dose close to that delivered when using conventional chest radiography. Nevertheless, low-dose HRCT is a complementary study to helical acquisitions.

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum in children

SUMMARY. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is rare in children, mainly affecting male adolescents. It is usually secondary to alveolar rupture in the pulmonary interstitium, followed by dissection of gas towards the hilum and mediastinum. Many pathological and physiological events can lead to alveolar rupture, but the most common cause in children is asthma. The clinical diagnosis is based on the symptom triad of chest pain, dyspnea, and subcutaneous emphysema, and is also based on Hamman's sign. The diagnosis is confirmed by chest radiography. The main differential diagnosis is esophageal perforation, which requires an esophagogram with contrast when there is the slightest doubt in the diagnosis. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum generally resolves spontaneously within a few days, meaning that ambulatory treatment is usually appropriate. Management consists of treating the underlying cause (if identified), rest, analgesics, and simple clinical monitoring. Predisposing factors should be identified and controlled to prevent recurrence. Cases of idiopathic SPM necessitate diagnostic pulmonary function tests after the acute episode, to establish whether the child has asthma.

[Zinc deficiency in mucoviscidosis]

Zinc deficiencies can induce dermatitis in subjects presenting cystic fibrosis.

CASE REPORT

A patient, Clement, presented with a digestive form of cystic fibrosis. At four months of age, he presented a dermatitis similar to acrodermatitis enteropathica. Early clinical diagnosis and treatment led to a rapid response to zinc sulfate therapy.

DISCUSSION

Less intestinal absorption, malnutrition, and diet are just some of the numerous reasons for the zinc deficiency in this case. Biological support is not necessary to begin the treatment.

[Solar urticaria: one case treated by intravenous immunoglobulin]

BACKGROUND

Solar urticaria is a rare photodermatosis which often begins from the third to the fifth decade. Usual treatment consists of photoprotection measures and antihistamines although disease control is sometimes unsatisfactory with both. We report herein a very severe case of solar urticaria we treated with intravenous immunoglobulins.

CASE-REPORT

A 55-year-old woman suffered for 3 years from very severe solar urticaria which resisted treatment. Phototests revealed two action spectra: the first in UVA near 380 nm with a minimal urticarian dose of 0.025 J/cm(2), the second near 500 nm in visible light.

RESULTS

As last resort treatment, we gave our patient intravenous immunoglobulins. After the third course of treatment, the improvement was impressive as the patient could tolerate visible light and 15 minutes of intense solar exposure. The minimal urticarian dose was raised from 0.025 J/cm(2) to 27 J/cm(2) in UVA. One year after treatment, the solar urticaria has disappeared.

CONCLUSIONS

We report herein the first case of solar urticaria treated with success with immunoglobulin. Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment is well for its effectiveness in many autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura, and also, as recently proven, in some cases of severe idiopathic chronic urticaria.

Mosaicism in the alpha-like protein genes of group B streptococci

Members of a family of repeat-containing surface proteins of group B streptococci (GBS) defined by the alpha C and Rib proteins exhibit size variability and cross-reactivity and have been studied as potential vaccine components. We report evidence of horizontal DNA transfer with subsequent recombination as a mechanism generating diversity within this antigen family. Alp2 and Alp3 are additional members of the alpha C protein family identified in strains of the emerging GBS serotypes V and VIII. Each contains an overall genetic organization highly similar to that of the alpha C and Rib proteins, including a tandem repeat region and conserved N- and C-terminal regions. Among different strains, protein size varies according to the number of tandem repeats within the corresponding gene. Unlike the alpha C and Rib proteins, however, the newly described alpha-like proteins contain other regions, including one similar to the IgA-binding region of the GBS beta C protein, a nontandem repeat region, and an isolated repeat highly homologous to the alpha C repeat. Sequence analysis of the regions flanking the alpha C protein gene on a 13.7-kb insert reveals several ORFs that are likely to be involved in basic metabolic pathways. Analysis of corresponding flanking regions in other GBS strains, including the parent strains of the newly described alpha-like proteins, shows striking conservation among all strains studied. These findings indicate that the alpha-like proteins are encoded by mosaic variants at a single genomic locus and suggest that recombination after horizontal DNA transfer is a means of generating diversity within this protein family.

[Photodermatosis and photoprotection in children]

Photodermatosis is an heterogeneous group of affections characterized by an abnormal sensitivity of skin to sunlight responsible of a local or generalized eruption. Rare in children, the most frequent of them such as sun-burns, phytophotodermatosis and phototoxicity are fortunately benign, brief and spontaneously resolving. Some of them disappear spontaneously after few years like polymorphic light eruptions which are rather observed in children older than ten years. In case of recurrence, rare diagnosis have to be investigated with specific tests (phototests, blood exams, genetic investigations) as some metabolic or genetic disorders may be revealed by a photosensitivity, especially before the age of three years. The questioning of the parents and of the child is fundamental. Many diagnosis may be discussed depending on age and circumstances. Treatment consists in photoprotection recommendations, solar eviction and regular application of protective screens, whose spectrum of protection are different and have to be known in order to prescribe an adapted photoprotection.

[Solid pleural-based mass as initial manifestation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma]

Subpleural involvement is a well-known site of advanced or recurrent lymphoma. But, to our knowledge, it has never been described as an initial manifestation of this disease. We report the case of a patient with solid subpleural mass revealing a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

[Major eosinophilia in a premature infant induced by topical ketoconazole]

INTRODUCTION

Ketoconazole is a member of a newer group of imidazole antifungals. Except for treatment of oral candidiasis, there is no reported experience of use in neonates. Thus, its use in neonatalogy must be considered experimental. Herein we report a major eosinophilia in a very low birth weight neonate induced by transcutaneous resorption of topical ketoconazole.

CASE REPORT

A 26 week premature was intubated and ventilated for a hyaline membrane disease. At more than 2 weeks, he developed diaper dermatitis with Candida albicans. Treatment consisted of local application of ketoconazole. After 6 days of application, WBC showed a major eosinophilia [20,000/microL]. Discontinuation of the drug was followed by a prompt normalization of the eosinophil count. The challenge test by topical ketoconazole reproduced eosinophilia, implicating this drug, which, to our knowledge, has not been described previously to cause eosinophilia in very low weight neonates.

DISCUSSION

Peripheral eosinophilia is an uncommon finding present in a relatively limited number of conditions in children. A minor eosinophilia often seen in premature neonates may in part be due to intubation. This case illustrates the potential danger of percutaneous application of drugs in newborn and infants as it has previously been pointed out way various chemicals. Any deterioration of the corneal layer such as observed in many dermatosis prompts an increase in the cutaneous permeability. Immaturity of the premature skin may have aiso played a role. Dermatologists should be aware of potential toxic topical ointments before prescribing them to very low weight babies.

[Evaluation of the understanding of sun risk among 241 adolescents]

OBJECTIVE

We investigated adolescent's knowledge of the consequences of sun exposure in order to determine what preventive measures would be effective.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A questionnaire was given to 241 adolescents (111 girls and 130 boys) aged 13 to 15 years whose background included all social occupational categories. The questionnaire included 21 open response items. We also interviewed 100 adolescents 3 months after an information session with a 1-hour slide presentation.

RESULTS

Eighty-five percent of the girls and 62 p. 100 of the boys said they exposed themselves to sun regularly. For 50 p. 100 of the adolescents, sun exposure occurred between 12 noon and 4 p.m. Less than 9 p. 100 knew that this period corresponds to maximal sunlight intensity and that maximal photoprotection is necessary. Only 47 p. 100 of the girls and 25 p. 100 of the boys regularly used protective skin lotions. Twenty-five percent of the girls used a lotion adapted to their phototype and 8 p. 100 of the boys. Twenty percent of the adolescents questioned were aware that applications should be repeated every 2 hours or after bathing. The cost of skin lotions was never cited as a limiting factor for their use. More than 90 p. 100 of the adolescents gave correct responses at the second test.

DISCUSSION

Our study demonstrated that the risk of sun exposure is largely unrecognized by adolescents and that they have very incomplete information concerning protective measures. An adapted information program would be useful for this risk population.

[Spontaneous pneumothorax in children]

Spontaneous pneumothorax is rare in childhood. Before 12 years of age the main underlying pathologies are asthma, cystic malformations, post infectious bullae, and infectious pneumoniae. After 12 years of age it is mainly associated with cystic fibrosis and constitutional slim morphology. Symptoms vary according to the extent of lung collapse and the diagnosis is confirmed on chest X rays. In mildly symptomatic pneumothorax, spontaneous resolution is achieved within few days. When cardiorespiratory difficulties are present, mechanical evacuation of air from the pleural cavity is necessary through a tube drainage maintained until complete pulmonary reexpansion. Surgical treatment is indicated in case of persisting air leakage after one week of efficient drainage, large cystic malformation or post infectious bullae, recurring or bilateral pneumothorax.

Intraosseous xanthoma without lipid disorders. Case-report and literature review

A case of intraosseous xanthoma in a patient with a normal lipid profile is reported. Hyperlipidemia is present in most patients with xanthomas. Intraosseous xanthomas are rare, particularly in normolipidemic patients, in whom the presenting symptom is pain without skin lesions. A lytic lesion with a rim of sclerosis is seen on radiographs. Histology shows foam cells, giant cells, and fibrosis. Intraosseous xanthoma is a benign tumor, and other diagnoses must be ruled out (histiocytosis X, Erdheim Chester disease, clear cell carcinoma metastasis). Surgical excision of the lesion is the elective treatment.

[Nursing specialization program: residential model: experience of establishing oneself in a teaching hospital]

This is a report about the experience of setting up a Specialization Program for Nurses in a "Residence" format, at the school-hospital of the Federal University of São Paulo, which mixes the traditional structure of specialization programs in Brazil with the model of the resident physician practical training. It began on February 1995, with the following objectives: 1) to qualify nurses, in different specialities, by an intensive training program, on a full-time schedule; 2) to contribute to improve the process of nursing care and; 3) to increase the quality of nursing assistance in our hospital. The results of our experience allow us to suggest that's a good way to qualify nurses for the best nursing practice, and to increase nursing research in a very practical basis.

[Neonatal curettage of giant congenital nevi]

OBJECTIVE

All agree upon the need for early treatment of giant congenital nevi, basically because of the risk of melanoma degeneration, estimated at about 5 p. 100. Another reason is the cosmetic, psychological and social impact of such nevi. The aim of this study was to assess neonatal curettage of giant congenital nevi as an alternative to classical surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1996 and 1999, the curettage technique was used in 14 newborns with giant congenital nevi. Three nevi were located on the scalp, 4 on lower limbs and 7 on the trunk with a jacket configuration in 1 case and a cape configuration in 4.

RESULTS

Curettage achieved 70-95 p. 100 clearing of the giant nevi in 10 of the 14 children. Four of the children developed hypertrophic scar tissue which resolved with time. Secondary hair growth was observed in 5 cases. Outcome was better when the curettage was performed very early (before 2 weeks of life).

DISCUSSION

Curettage is a surface technique proposed when surgical excision cannot be performed because the surface is too large or the localization is incompatible with surgery. Curettage is a simple low-cost technique which provides particularly satisfactory cosmetic results for very extensive giant congenital nevi. The risk of malignant transformation is greatly reduced although not totally. Regular clinical surveillance under conditions greatly improved by the clearing should help reduce the risk.

[Neonatal melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus]

INTRODUCTION

Malignant melanoma arising in giant congenital nevus is a well known but rare event.

CASE REPORT

A 15 day-old boy with giant congenital nevus all over the left leg was seen for a 6 mm red and bleeding nodule inside the nevus on the inner thigh. Histopathology showed spindle cell malignant melanoma. A 3 cm edge surgical excision was performed with a favorable outcome which persists 5 years later.

DISCUSSION

The diagnosis of malignant melanoma is always very difficult in a child, unless metastasis occurs. Histopathologic modifications of childhood malignant melanomas are discussed. Development of malignant melanoma in giant congenital nevus would not appear to exceed 5 p. 100. Nevertheless, early surgical excision is recommended because the nevus is smaller and skin mobilization is easier at this age.

[Granuloma annulare in the child]

Granuloma annulare is a benign, common, inflammatory skin lesion of unknown etiology that is seen in both adults and children. The typical lesions are single or multiple small cutaneous papules with an annular distribution. The histology is consistent with an area of fibrinoid degeneration of collagen, surrounded by palisading histiocytes and inflammatory cells. There are four clinically distinct subtypes: localized, generalized, subcutaneous and perforating. Usually a spontaneous resolution is expected. Many medical treatments have been proposed but without evidence of efficacy. The association with insulin dependent diabetes is still being discussed.

Intestinal transplantation in children: preliminary experience in Paris

From November 1994 to November 1998, 20 children (2.5 to 14 years) received a jejunoileal graft alone (SBTx; n = 10) or in combination with the liver (SBLTx; n = 10 and/or the right colon (5 SBTx). Indications were intractable diarrhea of infancy (n = 8), short bowel syndrome (n = 6), extensive Hirschsprung disease (n = 4), and chronic intestinal pseudoobstruction (n = 2). Immunosuppression included tacrolimus, methylprednisolone, and azathioprine. Current follow-up ranges from 6 to 54 months. Five patients died (3 SBTx) within the first 2 months. Acute liver rejection occurred in 5 patients during the first 2 months. Sixteen episodes of intestinal rejection during the first 3 months in 11 patients (8 in 4 SBTx) were successfully treated in all but 3 by increasing tacrolimus dose and/or a 3-day methyprednisolone bolus or required antilymphoglobulins in 3 cases. Surgical complications occurred 8 times after SBLTx and 3 after SBTx. Infectious complications were more frequent in SBLTx recipients. Reversible Epstein-Barr virus-related posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease occurred in 3 recipients. Five presented cytomegalovirus infection. The SB graft was removed in 5 recipients (3 chronic rejection). All patients were started with oral and/or enteral feeding from the 7th postoperative day by using either normal food or protein hydrolysate diet. Currently, 10 of 11 children (8 SBLTx) achieved digestive autonomy after 5 to 30 weeks. All recipients gained weight; however, growth velocity remained reduced during the first 6 months because of the steroid therapy. Overall graft and patient survival is higher after SBLTx. Intestinal transplantation is indicated for patients with permanent intestinal failure. However, because parenteral nutrition is generally well tolerated, even for long periods, each indication for transplantation must be weighed carefully in terms of risk and quality of life.

[Can intestinal transplantation constitute treatment for intestinal failure?]

The management of patients with intestinal failure has benefited from progress in parenteral nutrition (PN), especially home-based parental nutrition. Intestinal transplantation is now possible and in some conditions, constitutes the logical treatment option. Since 1985, more than 300 small-bowel grafts have been performed, involving the isolated small bowel with or without the colon (45%), the liver + small bowel (40%) or several organs (15%). 2/3 of recipients were under 20 years of age, and indications were short-bowel syndrome (64%), severe intractable diarrhea (13%), abdominal cancer (13%), or chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome (8%). 51% of patients survived > 2 years after the graft. Patient and graft survival depends on the type of immunosuppression, i.e. Cyclosporine or FK 506. The results must be interpreted carefully as they represent the first experience in numerous centers using different immuno-suppressive protocols, without any randomization. The results from the largest of these centers more closely reflect the current situation and may exceed a 70% 2-year survival rate. Functional grafts lead to gastrointestinal autonomy (weaning of PN) while maintaining satisfactory nutritional status and normal growth in childhood. Intestinal transplantation is theoretically indicated for all patients permanently or persistently dependent on PN. However, as PN is generally well tolerated, even for long periods, each indication for transplantation must be carefully weighed up in terms of the iatrogenic risk and quality of life. When PN has reached its limits, especially those associated with vascular, infectious, hepatic or metabolic complications, intestinal transplantation must be undertaken. Transplantation of the small bowel alone remains the first option, as combined liver-small bowel grafting is only indicated in case of life-threatening progressive cirrhogenic liver disease.

[Features of tomodensitometry in the development of pleuropulmonary lesions related to Wegener's granulomatosis]

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine CT scan value for the follow-up of patients with pleuropulmonary lesions related to Wegener's granulomatosis.

METHODS

Retrospective study of ten patients who were diagnosed with diffuse Wegener's granulomatosis including lung involvement and for whom mean follow-up was 23 months (range 4-61).

RESULTS

During early stages of the disease, the most common finding was the existence of either nodules (90% of the patients) or consolidations (100% of the patients). CT scan controls showed that nodules disappeared within 6 months in 60% of patients and had completely resolved after 12 months. Linear opacities relating to traction developed, replacing subpleural nodules. A pneumothorax occurred in two patients who had excavated subpleural nodules. Consolidations disappeared in 44% of the patients, most frequently within 4 months. When consolidations persisted, they were replaced by alveolar infiltrates accompanied by bronchiolectasies and linear opacities. Regarding either nodules or consolidations, CT features related to relapse were similar to those of initial lesions in 40% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The main features of pleuropulmonary lesions relating to Wegener's granulomatosis were subpleural nodules that either disappeared with, however, subsequent linear opacities sequelae, or were complicated by the occurrence of pneumothorax.