ST2 and Reg3α: Can they predict aGvHD, steroid refractoriness and transplant-related mortality in pediatric patients after HSCT?

BACKGROUND/AIM

There are several complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Without any doubt, most important of these is aGvHD that increases transplant-related mortality. The aim of this study is to investigate whether ST-2 and Reg3α levels measured at an early stage in pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can be individual biomarkers identifying future GvHD and predicting treatment response.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2019 to January 2021, 27 patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for primary immunodeficiency or hematopoietic diseases formed the study group. During their follow-up, the patients were classified into two groups as those developing and those not developing aGvHD. Nineteen healthy volunteers from a similar age group who needed their blood samples drawn for other reasons and who did not have any history of chronic disease, infection or medication use formed the control group. Blood samples of patients scheduled to have allogeneic HSCT were obtained before the administration of the preparative regimen, on Day +7 post-transplant and on the day of diagnosis if they developed aGvHD. Serum samples were stored at -20ºC until the day of processing. ST2 and Reg3α levels were measured using the ELISA method.

RESULTS

For patients who developed aGvHD (n = 13), ST2 levels obtained before the transplantation, on Day +7 post-transplant and on the day of aGvHD diagnosis (in patients developing GvHD) were significantly higher compared to the healthy Control Group (p-value <0.05). As regards to the samples obtained on the same days, ST2 levels did not differ significantly among patients who developed and those who did not develop GvHD (n = 14; p-value >0.05). ST2 levels of samples obtained on the days that acute skin and gastrointestinal tract GvHD developed did not differ significantly between these two groups (p-value >0.05). Reg3α levels of the pre-transplant samples, on Day +7 after the transplantation and on the day of aGvHD diagnosis did not show any difference between any of the groups (p-value >0.05). As only two patients died after transplantation, thus correlation of ST2 and Reg3α levels with transplant-related mortality could not be proven.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that ST2 and Reg3α levels are neither diagnostic nor prognostic or predictive biomarkers of aGvHD, steroid resistance or transplant-related mortality in pediatric patients. This study can be regarded as a pilot study because of the small patient population; more research involving a larger patient population is required.

The Determining Factors for Outcome of Pediatric Intensive Care Admitted Children After Stem Cell Transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Requiring pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission relates to high mortality and morbidity in patients who received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the indications for PICU admission, treatments, and the determining risk factors for morbidity and mortality in patients who had allogeneic HSCT from various donors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, we enrolled to patients who required the PICU after receiving allogeneic HSCT at our Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit between 2005 and 2020. We evaluated to indication to PICU admission, applications, mortality rate, and the determining factors to outcomes.

RESULTS

Thirty-three (7%) patients had 47 PICU admissions and 471 patients underwent bone marrow transplantation during 16-year study period. Also, 14 repeated episodes were registered in 9 different patients. The median age of PICU admitted patients was 4 (0.3 to 18) years and 29 (62%) were male. The main reasons for PICU admission were a respiratory failure, sepsis, and neurological event in 20, 8, and 7 patients, respectively. The average length of PICU stay was 14.5 (1 to 80) days, 14 (43%) of patients survived and the mortality rate was 57%. Multiple organ failure ( P =0.001), need for respiratory support ( P =0.007), inotrope agents ( P =0.001), and renal replacement therapy ( P =0.013) were found as significant risk factors for mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Allogeneic HSCT recipients need PICU admission because of its related different life-threatening complications. But there is a good chance of survival with quality PICU care and different advanced organ support methods.

Thalassemia patients in transfussion dependent period and after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: how are the psychiatric status and life quality of these patients?

Although hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been widely used to treat patients with beta-thalassemia major, evidence showing whether this treatment improves mental health, self esteem and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is limited. We aimed to describe psychiatric problems, HRQoL and self-esteem scores of patients who have thalassemia and compared with patients who underwent HSCT in the current study. A total of 24 patients with thalassemia major and 13 patients who underwent HSCT at least 2 years ago aged between 7-37 years were included. We used The Children's Depression Inventory, The Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Pediatric Quality of LifeTM (PedsQL™) for assesment of children and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) for assessment of adults. We also used Piers Harris Self Concept Scale for children and adults. Psychopathologies are common in both groups (50% in Thalassemia group and 69.2% in HSCT group). Popularity scores in Piers Haris scale of patients in HSCT group were significantly higher compared to thalassemia group (p = 0.03). Additionally, HSCT group had higher scores in physical health subscales of HRQoL in both children and parents'(p = 0.02, p = 0.03 respectively). Our findings suggest improved HRQoL and self-esteem in thalassemia patients after HSCT. However, due to the high prevalence of mental disorders in both groups, we would like to emphasize that clinicians should examine not only the physical but also the psychological state of the patients with thalessemia during the their treatment and follow-up period after HSCT.

Patterns and Grading of Gastrointestinal Graft-Versus-Host Disease: A Clinicopathologic Correlation Study

BACKGROUND

The present study investigated gastrointestinal involvement patterns of acute graft-versus-host disease and assessed the correlation of pathologic severity with clinical grading.

METHODS

Pathology reports of gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopic biopsies taken from 164 post-hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients with at least 1 endoscopic gastrointestinal biopsy diagnosed as "consistent with acute graft-versus-host disease" between 2005 and 2019 were retrieved from the automated hospital database. Endoscopic, pathologic and clinical gradings were performed using Freiburg criteria, Lerner and modified Seattle-Glucksberg grading systems, respectively.

RESULTS

The majority of the patients (n = 140, 85.4%) were investigated with more than one biopsy from various gastrointestinal sites with a total of 479 biopsies: 44 (9.2%) esophagus, 90 (18.8%) stomach, 91 (19.0%) duodenum, 20 (4.2%) terminal ileum, 32 (6.7%) right colon, 87 (18.2%) left colon and, 115 (23.9%) rectum. Overall, lower gastrointestinal (n = 118/126, 93.6%) and upper gastrointestinal (n = 91/97, 93.8%) involvements were similar (P = .3). While the most severely affected site was duodenum (P = .021) in upper gastrointestinal, pathologic grades were similar in lower gastrointestinal sites, though more severe than upper gastrointestinal (P = .003). Pathologic grading had a low positive correlation with both clinical (r = 0.308, P = .001) and endoscopic grading (coefficient: 0.261, P = .003).

CONCLUSION

Considering the similar graft-versus-host disease frequency of upper and lower gastrointestinal tract, distal colon evaluation with rectosigmoidoscopy seems to be a practical approach in patients with suspected gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease. As it was positively correlated with both endoscopic and clinical grade, pathologic grading should be performed in these patients to assess gastrointestinal involvement patterns.

Thalassemia-free and graft-versus-host-free survival: outcomes of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for thalassemia major, Turkish experience

We report the national data on the outcomes of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for thalassemia major (TM) patients in Turkey on behalf of the Turkish Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation Group. We retrospectively enrolled 1469 patients with TM who underwent their first HSCT between 1988 and 2020 in 25 pediatric centers in Turkey. The median follow-up duration and transplant ages were 62 months and 7 years, respectively; 113 patients had chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) and the cGVHD rate was 8.3% in surviving patients. Upon the last visit, 30 patients still had cGvHD (2.2%). The 5-year overall survival (OS), thalassemia-free survival (TFS) and thalassemia-GVHD-free survival (TGFS) rates were 92.3%, 82.1%, and 80.8%, respectively. cGVHD incidence was significantly lower in the mixed chimerism (MC) group compared to the complete chimerism (CC) group (p < 0.001). In survival analysis, OS, TFS, and TGFS rates were significantly higher for transplants after 2010. TFS and TGFS rates were better for patients under 7 years and at centers that had performed over 100 thalassemia transplants. Transplants from matched unrelated donors had significantly higher TFS rates. We recommend HSCT before 7 years old in thalassemia patients who have a matched donor for improved outcomes.

The role of galactomannan test results in the diagnosis of pediatric invasive aspergillosis

BACKGROUND

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed children. Early detection of the infection can improve prognosis in this patient population.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the utility of Aspergillus galactomannan antigen assay (GM-EIA) as a diagnostic tool for IA in at-risk paediatric patients.

PATIENTS/METHODS

For the study, 659 GM-EIA results from 59 patients diagnosed with IA and 3368 GM-EIA results from 351 subjects without evidence for IA (controls) were reviewed retrospectively. Three cut-off values (i.e. ≥0.5, ≥1, ≥1.5) were specified to determine GM-EIA positivity.

RESULTS

The median age was 6.3 years for boys and 14.5 years for girls. There was a significant difference between the girls and boys in terms of age (p < 0.01). For proven/probable/possible IA patients, sensitivity of 67.8% and specificity of 59.8% were detected when the ≥0.5 cut-off value was used for GM-EIA-positivity. The specificity increased to 80% at the cut-off of ≥1 and to 88% at the cut-off of ≥1.5. False positivity rates were 9.14, 3, and 1.45% at the ≥0.5, ≥1 and ≥1.5 cut-offs respectively. In the proven/probable IA group, sensitivity and negative predictive values were 86.9 and 97.2% at the ≥0.5 cut-off, 85.7 and 97.9%, at the ≥1 cut-off and 84.2 and 98.1% at ≥1.5 cut-off respectively. The positive likelihood ratio was 7.57 and the odds ratio was 42.67 at ≥1.5 cut-off.

CONCLUSION

The GM-EIA may be used for both screening and diagnostic purposes in paediatric patients using a cut-off value of ≥1.5 for GM-EIA positivity.

Prognostic factors for survival in children who relapsed after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute leukemia

BACKGROUND

Post-transplant relapse has a dismal prognosis in children with acute leukemia undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Data on risk factors, treatment options, and outcomes are limited.

PROCEDURE

In this retrospective multicenter study in which a questionnaire was sent to all pediatric transplant centers reporting relapse after allo-HSCT for a cohort of 938 children with acute leukemia, we analyzed 255 children with relapse of acute leukemia after their first allo-HSCT.

RESULTS

The median interval from transplantation to relapse was 180 days, and the median follow-up from relapse to the last follow-up was 1844 days. The 3-year overall survival (OS) rate was 12.0%. The main cause of death was disease progression or subsequent relapse (82.6%). The majority of children received salvage treatment with curative intent without a second HSCT (67.8%), 22.0% of children underwent a second allo-HSCT, and 10.2% received palliative therapy. Isolated extramedullary relapse (hazard ratio (HR): 0.607, P = .011) and relapse earlier than 365 days post-transplantation (HR: 2.101, P < .001 for 0-180 days; HR: 1.522, P = .041 for 181-365 days) were found in multivariate analysis to be significant prognostic factors for outcome. The type of salvage therapy in chemosensitive relapse was identified as a significant prognostic factor for OS.

CONCLUSION

A salvage approach with curative intent may be considered for patients with post-transplant relapse, even if they relapse in the first year post-transplantation. For sustainable remission, a second allo-HSCT may be recommended for patients who achieve complete remission after reinduction treatment.

Ocular Findings of Pediatric Dry Eye Related to Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Objectives:

To evaluate the frequency and findings of dry eye associated with ocular graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospectively the records of pediatric patients with ocular GVHD were evaluated and ophthalmologic examination findings as well as Schirmer test results, tear film break-up time, and corneal staining grades were recorded. In severe dry eye patients topical cyclosporine-A was prescribed and the results were evaluated.

Results:

GVHD was detected in 51 (23.4%) of 218 HSCT patients, 4 of whom died during follow-up. Thirty (63.8%) of the remaining 47 patients had chronic ocular GVHD and 4 patients with severe dry eye were treated with topical cyclosporine-A with a median follow-up of 12.1 months. Severe dry eye symptoms and findings significantly improved in 2 patients. However, 1 patient had to stop treatment due to side effects.

Conclusion:

In children, chronic ocular GVHD is a common finding of GVHD after HSCT. Therefore, these patients should be examined periodically for dry eye.

Delayed Diagnosis of Cobalamin E Defect in an Adolescent Patient

Cobalamin and its metabolites play a critical role in deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis. Disorders of cobalamin metabolism are rare and related with neurological and hematological problems. We report an adolescent patient with cobalamin E (CblE) defect presenting with megaloblastic anemia, mental retardation, cerebral atrophy, cortical visual impairment, white matter changes on brain magnetic resonance imaging, and hyperhomocysteinemia. Homozygous mutation at the c.245C>T in exon 3 of the MTRR gene was identified, which had been found to be related to CblE defect. He was treated with betaine, folic acid, vitamin B6, riboflavin, hydroxycobalamin (OH-B₁₂), and carnitine. During treatment, homocysteine levels decreased over time.

Magnetic resonance visualization of iron-loaded meshes in patients with pain after inguinal hernia repair

PURPOSE

Chronic post-operative inguinal pain (CPIP) is defined as pain lasting more than 3 months and the incidence is less than 4% after laparoscopic hernia repair. CPIP can have several causes. In this study, we aimed to show that 3D-iron loaded mesh preparations are useful in radiological evaluation of post-operative complications, especially patients with chronic pain and the mesh status of operated inguinal hernia cases.

METHODS

A total of 450 cases who had been operated for inguinal hernia with 3D-iron loaded mesh and who had ongoing pain at the post-operative period were included in this study. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) was performed at the post-operative 90th day of the seven symptomatic (groin pain, limitation of movement) cases which were operated using a 3D-iron loaded mesh, 10 × 15 cm in size, (DynaMeshEndolap visible with 25% MRI-visible filaments, FEG TextiltechnikmbH, Aachen, Germany) for inguinal hernia repair to evaluate mesh status, localization, and local complications. Gradient echo sequences in the sagittal, axial, and coronal sections on MRI were discussed by two radiologists. Mesh localizations, their relationship with surrounding structures and their complications related with mesh were evaluated by two radiologists (D.Y, D.E.T.Ş).

RESULTS

No significant radiological findings related to defined anatomical structures were found in the MRI images of the study group. The dimensions measured on the sagittal, axial and coronal images were correlated with original mesh sizes and no significant shrinkage was detected.

CONCLUSION

Mesh position and deformation as shrinkage can be the mesh-related cause of pain. The incidence of CPIP in our patients is less than 2%. 3D-iron loaded meshes were monitored with MRI in CPIP patients and there was no mesh-related changes found in our study. The use of MRI-visible meshes will most likely help us to monitor mesh preparations and show potential time-dependent changes in mesh characteristics and consequent complications. In case of doubtful clinical postoperative hernia recurrence or chronic groin pain, mesh position can be identified by MRI and unnecessary surgical intervention can be avoided.

Expression of Survivin and Its Splice Variants in Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Aims: Survivin is involved in the inhibition of apoptosis and the regulation of cell division. In addition to wild-type survivin (survivin-wt), at least four splice variants with differential functions (ΔEx3 and 3B antiapoptotic, and 2α and 2B proapoptotic) have been identified. Survivin is highly expressed in several cancers, including hematological malignancies. Although acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most frequent malignancy in children, studies that investigated survivin expression in ALL are limited, and there is no study on 3B and 2α expression in ALL. Therefore the expression of survivin-wt and its splice variants was investigated in pediatric B-cell ALL patients. Materials and Methods: The expression of survivin-wt and its four splice variants was investigated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in archival RNA samples of 35 pediatric B-cell ALL patients. Patients were divided into high- and standard-risk groups according to age, white blood cell count, extramedullary involvement, and genetic risk factors; expression of survivin variants was compared between these two risk groups. Results: We found that the ratio of survivin-ΔEx3/wild type (WT) expression was higher in the low-risk group than in the high-risk group. Conclusion: Comparative analysis between the high- and low-risk B-cell ALL groups indicated that the survivin-ΔEx3/WT expression ratio could potentially be used in risk classification for pediatric B-cell ALL.

Investigation of the frequency of iron insufficiency among infants in a population in which routine iron supplementation is implemented

Çullas-İlarslan NE, Günay F, İleri DT, Elhan AH, Ertem M, Arsan S. Investigation of the frequency of iron insufficiency among infants in a population in which routine iron supplementation is implemented. Turk J Pediatr 2018; 60: 22-31. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) represents the most common cause of anemia worldwide. Because of potential irreversible neurodevelopmental impairment, its prevention during infancy is essential. We aimed to investigate the frequency of iron insufficiency among infants in a population which routine iron supplementation is implemented; and to examine related risks. A total of 501 infants, aged 9-15 months, were screened with complete blood count and serum ferritin. Infants were divided into two groups. [Group 1 (iron insufficient), [Group 1a: Iron deficiency (ID), Group 1b: IDA (IDA)], Group 2 (Iron sufficient (IS)]. Anemia was recognized in 122 (24.3%) infants. Microcytosis was observed in 110 (90.2%) of anemic infants. Group 2 accounted for 49.5% (n=248) whereas 152 (30.3%) and 101 (20.2%) infants belonged to Groups 1a and 1b, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that male gender (OR=1.53; 95%CI 1.07 and 2.17), receiving > 500 ml/day cow`s milk (OR=2.77; 95%CI 0.87 and 8.83) and incompliance to iron supplementation (OR=2.51; 95%CI 1.75 and 3.60) were distinctive characteristics of Group 1 while prevalence of iron insufficiency was higher in infants consuming less formula (OR=3.10; 95%CI 2.00 and 4.80). The most frequent reasons for incompliance were consideration of supplementation as unnecessary (n=69, 31.1%) and neglection (n= 59, 26.6%). Our study demonstrated a high frequency of iron insufficiency among infants in a setting utilizing national iron supplementation and `incompliance` to iron as the most evident risk factor for iron insufficiency. Effective counseling of families by health care providers concerning importance of compliance to iron prophylaxis is essential for prevention of iron insufficiency. We also suggest screening of infants for ID as well as IDA in settings with high frequency of iron insufficiency.

Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia in Turkey: A Retrospective Analysis of Sixty-five Patients

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to define the status of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) patients in Turkey in terms of time of diagnosis, clinical characteristics, mutational studies, clinical course, and treatment strategies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data including clinical and laboratory characteristics and treatment strategies of JMML patients were collected retrospectively from pediatric hematology-oncology centers in Turkey.

RESULTS

Sixty-five children with JMML diagnosed between 2002 and 2016 in 18 institutions throughout Turkey were enrolled in the study. The median age at diagnosis was 17 months (min-max: 2-117 months). Splenomegaly was present in 92% of patients at the time of diagnosis. The median white blood cell, monocyte, and platelet counts were 32.9x109/L, 5.4x109/L, and 58.3x109/L, respectively. Monosomy 7 was present in 18% of patients. JMML mutational analysis was performed in 32 of 65 patients (49%) and PTPN11 was the most common mutation. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) could only be performed in 28 patients (44%), the majority being after the year 2012. The most frequent reason for not performing HSCT was the inability to find a suitable donor. The median time from diagnosis to HSCT was 9 months (min-max: 2-63 months). The 5-year cumulative survival rate was 33% and median estimated survival time was 30±17.4 months (95% CI: 0-64.1) for all patients. Survival time was significantly better in the HSCT group (log-rank p=0.019). Older age at diagnosis (>2 years), platelet count of less than 40x109/L, and PTPN11 mutation were the factors significantly associated with shorter survival time.

CONCLUSION

Although there has recently been improvement in terms of definitive diagnosis and HSCT in JMML patients, the overall results are not satisfactory and it is necessary to put more effort into this issue in Turkey.

Portal Vein Thrombosis of a Newborn with Corrected Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return

Total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) is a rare and frequently isolated defect identified in 1% to 3% of all congenital heart diseases. To the best of our knowledge, portal vein thrombosis (PVT) associated with TAPVR has not been reported in the literature. We report a successfully managed PVT in a newborn with infracardiac-type TAPVR and review the literature. Anticoagulation therapies were used during the neonatal period to prevent thrombus progression. PVT should be kept in mind in TAPVR patients who have open heart repair with total correction. The treatment in each neonate should be individualized with consideration of the risk/benefit ratio.

Evaluation of engraftment syndrome in children following full-matched related donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantations

The term "ES" has been widely used for describing a clinical condition consisting of skin rash, fever, and weight gain that occur during neutrophil recovery period following HSCT. In this study, the incidence, clinical features, risk factors, and outcomes of ES were evaluated in 169 children following allogeneic HSCT from full-matched related donor according to the Spitzer criteria. Seventeen patients (10.1%) presented with clinical conditions suggesting ES. In both univariate and multivariate analysis underlying malignant disease and early release of monocytes to the PB, and in univariate analysis using only CsA for GVHD prophylaxis were found to be the significant risk factors for the development of ES. Patients with ES experienced significantly higher incidence of acute and chronic GVHD and propensity toward a higher rate of TRM. OS did not differ between the patient groups. Thirteen of 17 patients received steroid therapy, and all but one patient responded to therapy. Monitoring for early detection of ES and early intervention with steroid therapy is the key for recovery. The most crucial approach for this purpose mainly is to find out and use the most useful and feasible diagnostic criteria for routine medical practice.

Hematopoietic cell transplantation activity of Turkey in 2014: Ongoing increase in HCT rates

Hematopoietic cell transplantation is an established treatment option with curative potential for a variety of clinical conditions. The last decade especially witnessed a remarkable increase in HCT activity in Turkey. In 2014, 696 pediatric and 2631 adult (total 3327) HCT were performed in Turkey. Corresponding transplant rates per 10 million inhabitants for autologous-HCT and allogeneic-HCT were 226 and 202, respectively. Total HCT procedures in Turkey increased 177% in the last 5 years and 791% in the last 14 years. This report focuses mainly on HCT activity of Turkey in 2014 based on the national HCT registry and presents a general picture of national HCT activity.

The impact of donor age and sex on the nucleated cell count and CD34 count in healthy bone marrow donors

BM remains an important source of stem cells. The BM characteristics change with age but the estimation of CD34 calculation of one CD34+ cell per 100 nucleated cells is used for all donors including pediatric donors in the operating room before getting the actual CD34 count. In order to see whether this formula is applicable for pediatric donors, we designed a retrospective study to see the affect of the age and sex on the BM NCC, CD34 count, and CD34/NCC ratios. Ninety-eight BM collections from 91 related donors were evaluated retrospectively (median age: nine yr [1.5-54 yr]; M/F: 41/50). A significant negative correlation was found between the donor age and NCC (r = -0.229, p < 0.05), CD34 count (r = -0.563, p < 0.01), and CD34/NCC (r = -0.664, p < 0.01). The negative correlation for CD34 count and CD34/NCC persisted in female and male donor groups. When donors younger than 16 yr of age were compared with the older donor group, the median NCC, median CD34 count, and CD34/NCC were significantly lower in the older group (p < 0.01). Age and sex have to be taken into consideration to avoid unnecessary high-volume collections and increased operating room time in the younger donors.

Successful haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in 44 children from healthy siblings conceived after preimplantation HLA matching

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remains the best therapeutic option for many acquired and inherited paediatric haematological disorders. Unfortunately, the probability of finding an HLA matched donor is limited. An alternative technique is PGD combined with HLA matching, which offers the possibility of selecting unaffected embryos that are HLA compatible with the sick child, with the aim of possible use of stem cells from the resulting baby in future. Since the first successful report for Fanconi anaemia a decade ago, the therapeutic success of this technique was reported in a few cases and for a limited number of disorders. Here, we report full recovery of 44 sick children who received HSCT from healthy infants conceived after pre-implantation HLA matching for the following 10 indications; beta-thalassaemia, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, Fanconi anaemia, sickle cell anaemia, acute myeloid leukaemia, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, Glanzmann's thrombasthaenia, Diamond-Blackfan anaemia, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy and mucopolysaccharidosis type I. No serious complications were observed among recipients and donors. Graft failure occurred in four children with beta-thalassaemia where a second HSCT was planned. Preimplantation HLA matching is a reliable technique and provides a realistic option for couples seeking treatment for an affected child when no HLA-matched donor is available.

HLA-matched family hematopoetic stem cell transplantation in children with beta thalassemia major: the experience of the Turkish Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Group

From January 1991 to June 2009, 245 children with beta thalassemia major who underwent their first allogeneic HSCT in Turkey and who were followed for a minimum of one yr post-transplantation were enrolled this study. The median age of the patients was 6.6 yr old (range, 1-22 yr). The distribution of Pesaro risk class I, II, and III categories was 41, 130, and 63 children, respectively. The median serum ferritin level was 2203 ng/mL. Eighty-eight patients received bone marrow (BM) stem cells; 137, peripheral blood (PB) stem cells; and 20, cord blood (CB) stem cells. The donors were HLA-matched siblings or parents. Median engraftment times were shorter in PBSCT patients compared with the BMT group (p < 0.001). Grade II-IV acute GvHD was observed in 33 children (13.5%), while cGvHD was observed in 28 patients (12.5%), eight of whom had the extensive form. Thalassemic reconstitution was observed in 43 (17%) of the transplant patients. Post-transplant aplasia occurred in three patients, and the TRM rate was 7.75%. Seventeen patients were lost after 100 days. The thalassemia-free survival and OS rates were 68% (95% CI, 61.8-74.2) and 85.0% (95% CI, 80.2-89.8), respectively. We believe that this study is important because it is the first multicenter national data for children with beta thalassemia major receiving HSCT.

H1N1-Associated Encephalitis in a Child with Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia and Bacteremia due to Klebsiella Pneumoniae

Herein we present a neutropenic 16-year-old female with acute myeloblastic leukemia that developed recurrentgeneralized seizures while receiving antimicrobial therapy (including oseltamivir) due to pneumonia, bacteremiaof Klebsiella pneumoniae, and H1N1 infection. The patient’s seizures were controlled using assisted ventilation.Electroencephalography showed that the patient had encephalopathy. Cranial computed tomography (CT), magneticresonance imaging (MRI), and MRI angiography findings were normal. The patient fully recovered without sequelae.This case indicates that during pandemics of influenza-like diseases H1N1 infection should always be a consideration.

Primary adrenal insufficiency in a child after busulfan and cyclophosphamide-based conditioning for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

High rates of skeletal complications, growth disturbances, thyroid and gonadal dysfunction have been described in children undergoing stem cell transplantation. Although secondary adrenal insufficiency has been diagnosed, no primary adrenal insufficiency has been reported after busulfan and cyclophosphamide (Bu/Cy)-based conditioning regimens for stem cell transplantation in children. A 9-year-old girl with myelodysplastic syndrome was treated with stem cell transplantation of allogeneic origin. She received myeloablative conditioning chemotherapy, Bu and Cy. Her serum cortisol level was normal before stem cell transplantation. Then, 17 months after stem cell transplantation, chronic graft-versus-host disease developed and was treated with methyl prednisolone for 3 months. The control endocrinological investigation revealed low serum cortisol and high serum adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) levels 6 months after completion of methyl prednisolone treatment. The ACTH stimulation test demonstrated primary adrenal insufficiency, and the other etiologies of primary adrenal insufficiency were excluded. The patient received oral prednisolone replacement therapy. She was followed-up for 44 months and required increases in steroid doses during stress periods. Primary adrenal insufficiency which was observed in our patient after Bu/Cy-based conditioning regimen for stem cell transplantation has not been reported in children and adrenal function should be closely monitored in these patients both before stem cell transplantation and after stem cell transplantation.

Mixed chimerism following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatric thalassemia major patients: a single center experience

OBJECTIVE

Stable mixed chimerism (MC) may result in cure for thalassemia major patients following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but rejection can occur. Twenty-eight HSCTs for thalassemia major were reviewed retrospectively to evaluate the clinical course of MC with possible risk factors and predictors of outcome, with a median follow-up of 1669 days (811-3576 days).

METHODS

Chimerism was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) or multiplex polymerase chain reaction depending on the sex match between the donor and the recipient.

RESULTS

Primary rejection, stable MC and full donor chimerism was detected in 3.6%, 17.8% and 78.6% of patients, respectively. Clinically, 4/5 patients with stable MC had thalassemia trait with donor chimerism as low as 14%. One patient was started on pRBC transfusions at 2.5 years postHSCT.

CONCLUSION

Stable MC can result in cure for thalassemia major patients. The clinical picture remains as the best guide for intervention until a more reliable predictor is available.

Prospective evaluation of acute and chronic renal function in children following matched related donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Acute and chronic renal impairment are important complications after HSCT. A prospective study was conducted to investigate the glomerular renal function in children who received allogeneic HSCT from matched related donors. Non-radiation conditioning regimens were used in all but one patient. CrCl and serial measurements of serum creatinine were evaluated prior to HSCT, within the first 100 days and one yr after. AKI was defined as at least a 1.5-fold rise in pre-HSCT serum creatinine within the first 100 days and classified as grade 1 to 3 according to the new definition criteria proposed by "AKI Network." Fifty-seven patients were enrolled in the study and 24 patients (42%) had AKI. CsA, amphotericin B, and SOS were found as risk factors for AKI. One yr after HSCT five patients (10%) had CKD and none of them required dialysis. None of the parameters were found as a predictor for CKD. We conclude that AKI is an important complication of HSCT. Careful monitoring of renal function, minimizing the use of nephrotoxic medication, prophylaxis, and effective treatment of SOS might be effective preventive measures to decrease the incidence of AKI.

Acute myeloid leukemia in Turkish children with Fanconi anemia. One center experience in the period between 1964-1995

OBJECTIVE

Fanconi's anemia(FA) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a progressive pancytopenia,variable congenital abnormalities and an increased risk for the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The objective of this study is to evaluate AML in the patients with FA diagnosed and followed-up in the Department of Pediatric Hematology at Ankara University School of Medicine in the period between 1964-1995.

METHODS

A total of 39 patients within the age range 2-14 years( mean 8.2±3.16),28 male and 11 female were diagnosed as FA on the basis of congenital abnormalities,pancytopenia, bone marrow hypoplasia and diepoxybutane induced chromosomal abnormalities that observed in all patients The hereditary and familial basis of FA was apparent in this series.Common abnormalities were growth retardation,cefe'- au- laitspots,hyperpigmentation,microcephaly, finger and thumb deformities,mental retardation and hypogenitalismus

RESULTS

Four AML (10.2%) were observed in our series.Cytogenetic analysis of these cases revealed 46/ XX,dup(3)(q22;q26) t(7;17) (p11;p11) in one where it was unsuccessful in three.Two cases could not achieve remission and died.The other two achieved complete remission and remained in remission for2 and 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Acute myelomonocytic type in three cases and acute monocytic type in one patient were diagnosed in our series. The patients with FA should be followed with regard to AML and solid tumors. AML and solid tomors should be taken into the consideration as the first manifestation of FA.

Relation of Soluble Endothelial Protein C Receptor and Cytokines After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Aim: The objective of this study was to elucidate the effects of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 2 (IL-2), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 8 (IL-8) on the expression of soluble endothelial protein C receptor (sEPCR) in the pathogenesis of thrombotic complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods: The relationship between plasma concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-8) and sEPCR was evaluated in 32 consecutive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell—transplanted patients prior to conditioning regimen and randomly once between +5 and +30 days after transplantation and compared these results with 20 healthy controls.

Results: Soluble endothelial protein C receptor levels did not indicate any significant difference between pre- and posttransplantation period, and sEPCR levels showed a significantly negative correlation between IL-6 and IL-8 (sEPCR and IL-6, r = —.43, P < .01; sEPCR and IL-8, r = —.57, P < .01). There was no correlation between sEPCR levels and TNF-α, IL-1β, or IL-2 (sEPCR and TNF-α, r = —.13, P > .05; sEPCR and IL-1β, r = —.1, P ≥ .05; sEPCR and IL-2, r = —.07, P > .05).

Conclusions: Our results suggest that the production of sEPCR was not affected by allogeneic HSCT. Soluble endothelial protein C receptor did not show any positive correlation between these proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-8), on the contrary a significantly negative correlation was determined between sEPCR and either IL-6 or IL-8. This negative correlation may be a protective mechanism in the pathway of protein C activation.

Thrombophilic risk factors in epileptic children treated with valproic Acid

There are few reports on valproic acid related to thrombophilia. Thrombophilic risk factors were investigated in 21 children (age range, 1-13 years) diagnosed with epilepsy and newly treated with valproic acid monotherapy. None of the children had been previously treated with any anticonvulsant agent. Before starting valproic acid therapy, homocysteine, lipoprotein(a), factor VIII, factor IX, protein C, protein S, antithrombin III levels, and activated protein C resistance levels were evaluated in all patients, with repeat evaluation after 9 months or 1 year of the therapy. Thrombosis gene mutations (factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A) were also evaluated in all patients before therapy. There was statistically significant elevation in lipoprotein(a) levels and reduction in fibrinogen levels after treatment. Reduction in protein C levels and elevation in homocysteine levels were also observed, but without statistical significance. Before therapy, no thrombotic event had occurred, despite thrombotic risk factors in some patients. Valproic acid can increase lipoprotein(a) and decrease fibrinogen, which may increase the risk of stroke or other thrombotic events. No clinical adverse effects resulted from changes in the levels or activity of thrombophilic factors associated with valproic acid treatment. Thus, routine investigation of factors implicated in thrombosis prior to initiation of valproic acid is not warranted for all patients. Nonetheless, caution is advised when initiating valproic acid treatment in children who have had prior stroke or thrombotic events.

Related donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for Fanconi anemia without radiation: a single center experience in Turkey

Eight children with FA underwent allogeneic HSCT without using irradiation for the conditioning regimen. Patients received two different conditioning regimens: first two patients received BU 1.5 mg/kg/day for four days and CY 10 mg/kg/day for four days and the other regimen was: Flu 30 mg/m(2)/day for five days, CY 10 mg/kg/day for two days, and ATG-Fresenius 9-10 mg/kg/day for four days. GVHD prophylaxis consisted of CsA + MTX for the first two patients and only CsA for the others. All patients received HLA-identical stem cells from related donors. Primary engraftment was demonstrated in all patients. No patient developed acute GVHD and one patient had chronic GVHD. Only one patient who received BU based regimen died because of VOD. Overall, seven patients (87.5%) are alive with stable full donor chimerism at a median follow-up time of 2.5 yr (range: 1.7-8.9 yr). None of the patients developed secondary malignancy. Based on our data, we conclude that Flu-based, non-irradiation conditioning regimen was safe with low organ toxicity and stable engraftment in FA patients undergoing HSCT from matched related donors.

Evaluation of glucose homeostasis in transfusion-dependent thalassemic patients

Diabetes is an important problem encountered in thalassemic patients. The severity and type of glucose disturbances vary greatly in different studies. Also the pathogenesis seems to be complex; either insulin deficiency or insulin resistance may mediate the glucose disturbances. In a group of thalassemic patients glucose homeostasis was evaluated. Diabetes prevalence was 1.8%. Forty patients were investigated both with an oral glucose tolerance test and first-phase insulin response. Three patients had impaired fasting glucose, 1 patient had impaired glucose tolerance, and 2 patients had hyperinsulinism. Nineteen of 40 patients who were tested had low first-phase insulin response (47.5%) with below 10th centile. Age, BMI, height SDS, age at diagnosis, age at first blood transfusion, number of blood transfusions in a year, percentage of elevated liver enzyme, and hemoglobin and ferritin levels were not different between patients with low first-phase insulin response to patients with normal first-phase insulin response. Four patients are HCV infected, and only 1 of them had low first-phase insulin response. The study group showed a high rate of impairement in insulin secretion by first-phase insulin response to glucose overload, despite the low rate of insulin resistance. Defect of insulin secretion in thalassemic patients may develop earlier than insulin resistance, and then be accompanied by insulin resistance. Increasing insulin resistance with age and the occurrence of additional factors could lead to detoriation of glucose metabolism.

An autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome initially diagnosed as Evans syndrome

Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) is a rare childhood disorder characterized by chronic non-malignant lymphoproliferation and autoimmunity. Patients with ALPS frequently exhibit episodic and intermittent, severe autoimmune- induced hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia or combined cytopenias. The co-occurrence of immune-mediated cytopenias, autoimmune thrombocytopenia and autoimmune hemolytic anemia is also known as Evans syndrome. This report describes a child who presented with Evans syndrome symptoms and who, after the detection of increased percentage of double negative T cell population in the peripheral blood, was diagnosed as ALPS. He received several courses of treatment including glucocorticoids, cyclosporine A (Cs A), and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) without any clinical benefit and was treated with the antimalarial drug Fansidar®. With administration of Fansidar® (half tablet per week; containing 250 mg of pyrimethamine and 12.5 mg of sulfadoxine) combined with immunosuppressive drugs, clinical status and laboratory findings temporarily improved. After two months, the patient underwent laparoscopic splenectomy because of worsening of thrombocytopenia refractory to the treatment. There was a transient beneficial effect from splenectomy. We were unable to stop immunosuppressive therapy and Fansidar®; however, this combined therapy was successful in decreasing the number of hospitalizations and controlled his clinical symptoms more effectively for six months. Unfortunately, he was admitted to a regional hospital with high fever and died at the age of three.

Orbital wall infarction mimicking periorbital cellulitis in a patient with sickle cell disease

Orbital wall infarction and subperiosteal haematomas are unusual manifestations of sickling disorders. Here we report an 11-year-old girl with sickle cell anaemia having multiple skull infarctions including the orbital bony structures associated with subperiosteal haematomas. The diagnosis was made by MRI, which showed bone marrow changes and associated haemorrhagic collections. The patient was successfully managed without surgical intervention.

Spigelian hernias: a prospective analysis of baseline parameters and surgical outcome of 34 consecutive patients

Most of the papers published on spigelian hernia are either case reports or small retrospective series. In this prospective multicenter study, we aimed to outline the specific features of spigelian hernias and patients' characteristics more clearly. Surgeons enrolled patients to be entered into the database as they diagnosed and treated the hernias at will. The baseline and surgical outcome parameters were noted in each patient. A painful mass was the main presenting complaint in half of 34 patients. Accurate preoperative diagnosis was possible in 31 patients. Open intraperitoneal mesh repair was the preferred technique. The mean hospital stay and time until return to normal daily activities were 4.1 and 15.6 days. Although a rare condition, diagnosis of a spigelian hernia is not difficult once remembered. Its surgical repair seems to cause few complications and is very well tolerated by the patient.

Clinico-epidemiologic study of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Diyarbakir Turkey

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a zoonotic disease, endemic and notifiable in southeastern Turkey. We investigated clinical features, individual characteristics, and environmental factors of affected patients, and identified additional patients with CL in Diyarbakir. In 2002 we studied the epidemiology of CL in Dedeköy and Durabeyli towns in Diyarbakir Province. We evaluated patients with any skin lesions. A questionnaire including demographic details was completed by each patient. Clinical details of lesions and other dermatological findings were recorded. We walked around the town and surveyed it for environmental factors. CL was diagnosed in 78 individuals aged 1-85 years (mean age of 20). Although all age groups were affected, the majority of patients were under age 20. The lesions ranged from approximately 0.5 to 20 cm. They were located on the face (46.7 %), upper extremity (23.2 %), lower extremity (5.1 %), and other sites. Different types of lesions were observed such as nodule with crust, nodule with osseous crust, violaceous infiltrative plaque with vegetative nodule, erysipelas-like plaque verrucous annular plaque, and eczema-like plaques. The incidence of CL is increasing in Dicle and Durabeyli towns and the clinical appearance may vary greatly.

Inhibitor screening for patients with hemophilia in Turkey

Development of factor VIII inhibitors remains the most serious and life-threatening complication of hemophilia therapy. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of inhibitor development in Turkish patients with hemophilia. Totally 1226 patients were screened [HA: 1057, HB: 105, von Willebrand's disease (vWD): 64]. Ages ranged from 1 to 55 years (mean: 16.5 years). Sixty-two percent of patients (657/1057) were severe hemophilia. This study showed that inhibitor prevalence in Turkish hemophiliacs exposed to factor concentrates and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is 11.2% for all HA and 15.8% for severe HA versus 1.9% for HB after eliminating transient inhibitors. Totally 122 patients were found inhibitor positive [high responder (HR) inhibitor= 60 and low responder (LR) inhibitor= 59 for HA/2 LR for HB/1 LR for vWD]. Thanks to this project, patients with inhibitor development can be treated with specific products such as recombinant factor VIIa or activated protrombin complex concentrates for their bleeding episodes or in their elective operations.