Clinical characteristics of a large familial cohort with Medullary thyroid cancer and germline Cys618Arg RET mutation in an Israeli multicenter study

Objective

To determine genealogical, clinical and pathological characteristics of a cohort with Cys618Arg mutation from an Israeli multicenter MTC study.

Methods

Retrospective database analysis examining RET mutations and comparing Cys618Arg and Cys634Arg/Thr/Tyr subgroups.

Results

Genetic testing was performed in 131/275 MTC patients (47.6%). RET mutations were found in 50/131 (38.2%), including Cys618Arg (28/50 cases,56%), and Cys634Arg/Thr/Tyr (15/50,30%). Through genealogical study, 31 MTC patients were found descendants of one family of Jewish Moroccan descent, accounting for 27/28 patients with documented Cys618Arg mutation and 4 patients without available genetic testing. Familial Cys618Arg cases (n=31) and Cys634Arg/Thr/Tyr cases (n=15, from 6 families) were compared. Although surgical age was similar (25.7 vs 31.3 years, p=0.19), the Cys618Arg group had smaller tumors (8.9mm vs 18.5mm, p=0.004) and lower calcitonin levels (33.9 vs 84.5 X/ULN, p=0.03). Youngest ages at MTC diagnosis were 8 and 3 years in Cys618Arg and Cys634Arg/Thr/Tyr cohorts, respectively. Long-term outcome was similar between groups. The Cys618Arg cohort had lower rates of pheochromocytoma (6.5% vs 53.3%, p=0.001) and primary hyperparathyroidism (3.2% vs 33.3%, p=0.01).

Conclusion

This is the first description of RET mutation distribution in Israel. Of 131 tested MTC patients, Cys618Arg was the predominant mutation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest cohort of Cys618Arg mutation described. For Cys618Arg and Cys634Arg/Thr/Tyr cohorts, MTC was diagnosed earlier than expected, likely due to familial genetic screening, and MTC outcomes were similar between groups. International studies are necessary to further characterize the clinical features of Cys618 mutations due to their relative rarity.

Hospitalization of Patients With Diabetes Due to Ketoacidosis Before and After the Initiation of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors

OBJECTIVE

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a rare side effect related to sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2I). This study investigated the incidence of people with diabetes hospitalized because of DKA after the implementation of SGLT2I (2015-2019), compared with the pre-SGLT2I era.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, medical records of all adult patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of DKA in a tertiary referral center from 2011-2019 were reviewed. The incidence of DKA was compared between the periods 2011-2014 and 2015-2019. Demographic and clinical data of patients hospitalized with DKA as well as SGLT2I use were extracted.

RESULTS

During 2011-2019, there were 186 hospitalizations because of DKA. The rate of hospitalization was stable during 2011-2019 at 0.22% ± 0.04% (95% CI, 0.18-0.25). The clinical characteristics of people hospitalized with DKA in 2011-2014 were similar to those of people hospitalized during 2015-2019. Only 7 people (6.1%) in the 2015-2019 cohort had SGLT2I-related DKA, and their clinical characteristics were similar to those of the rest of the cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of hospitalizations because of DKA remained stable before and 5 years after SGLT2I were implemented for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Larger, multi-institutional studies with longer follow-ups are needed to study the effect of SGLT2I on the rate of hospitalizations because of DKA among people with diabetes. Although DKA events associated with SGLT2I are rare, they should be strongly considered in the differential diagnosis of people treated with these medications.

Influence of Fasting until Noon (Extended Postabsorptive State) on Clock Gene mRNA Expression and Regulation of Body Weight and Glucose Metabolism

The trend of fasting until noon (omission or delayed breakfast) is increasingly prevalent in modern society. This eating pattern triggers discordance between endogenous circadian clock rhythms and the feeding/fasting cycle and is associated with an increased incidence of obesity and T2D. Although the underlying mechanism of this association is not well understood, growing evidence suggests that fasting until noon, also known as an "extended postabsorptive state", has the potential to cause a deleterious effect on clock gene expression and to disrupt regulation of body weight, postprandial and overall glycemia, skeletal muscle protein synthesis, and appetite, and may also lead to lower energy expenditure. This manuscript overviews the clock gene-controlled glucose metabolism during the active and resting phases and the consequences of postponing until noon the transition from postabsorptive to fed state on glucose metabolism, weight control, and energy expenditure. Finally, we will discuss the metabolic advantages of shifting more energy, carbohydrates (CH), and proteins to the early hours of the day.

A Comparison of Outcomes in Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Patients With and Without a Preoperative Diagnosis: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Cytological limitations pose a challenge to preoperative diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and therefore, a significant subset of patients is only diagnosed postoperatively. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of knowledge of a preoperative MTC diagnosis on disease management and outcomes. Methods: Multicenter, retrospective, cohort study of MTC patients treated in Israel from January 2000 to June 2021. We compared cohorts of patients according to the presence or absence of a preoperative MTC diagnosis. Results: Ninety-four patients with histologically confirmed MTC were included (mean age 56.2 ± 14.3 years, 43% males). Fifty-three patients (56%) had a preoperative MTC diagnosis (preop-Dx group), and 41 (44%) were confirmed only postoperatively (no-Dx group). The extent of surgical resection, including completion procedures, was as follows: total thyroidectomy in 83% versus 100% (p = 0.002), central lymph node dissection (LND) in 46% versus 98% (p < 0.001), ipsilateral lateral LND in 36% versus 79% (p < 0.001), and contralateral lateral LND in 17% versus 28% (NS), in the no-Dx versus the preop-Dx group, respectively. Pathology confirmed a smaller median tumor size of 16 ± 17.4 mm versus 23 ± 14.0 mm (p = 0.09), a higher proportion of micro-MTC (size ≤10 mm) 32% versus 15% (p = 0.03), and a higher rate of co-occurrence of follicular cell-derived carcinoma 24% versus 4% (p = 0.003), in the no-Dx compared to the preop-Dx group, respectively. The rates of extrathyroidal and extranodal tumor extension were not significantly different between the groups. At the last follow-up, the biochemical cure was attained in 55% [CI 0.38-0.71] compared to 64% [CI 0.50-0.77] of the no-Dx and the preop-Dx group, respectively (p = 0.41). After the exclusion of patients with micro-MTC, biochemical cure was more commonly achieved in the preop-Dx group (33% [CI 0.14-0.52] vs. 62% [CI 0.46-0.77], p = 0.04). Preop-Dx patients had improved overall survival compared to the no-Dx group (log-rank p = 0.04) over a median follow-up of 82 months (interquartile range [IQR] 30-153). Conclusions: Preoperatively, the diagnosis of MTC is often missed. An accurate preoperative diagnosis of MTC may enable guideline-concordant surgical treatment and ultimately contribute to an overall survival benefit in MTC patients.

Clinical and pathologic characteristics of appendiceal neuroendocrine neoplasms diagnosed during pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Although appendicitis occurs in approximately 1:1000 pregnancies, appendiceal neuroendocrine neoplasm (ANEN) diagnosis during pregnancy is very rare. Data on presentation, treatment and prognosis is scarce.

AIM

To describe ANEN cases diagnosed during pregnancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective appraisal of 7 consecutive ANEN patients diagnosed during pregnancy from four Israeli tertiary medical centers and comparison with 17 cases described in the literature from 1965-2021.

RESULTS

Age at ANEN diagnosis was 26.4 ± 3.5 years (range 21-33). Patients were diagnosed between gestational weeks 6-40, most frequently in the third trimester (53%). The most common presenting symptom was abdominal pain. Tumor size was 14.3 ± 8.9mm (range 3-45mm). In patients from our series appendiceal base involvement was reported in 2/7; mesoappendiceal invasion in 5/7; lympho-vascular invasion in 2/7. Ki67 staining was reported in 6/7 cases and ranged from 1-10%. Pathology details were lacking in most of the previously published cases. All 7 pregnancies in our series resulted in term delivery with no complications, whereas in historical cases there were one first trimester abortion, one ectopic pregnancy, and one stillbirth. Right hemicolectomy was performed in 5/7 patients in our series and reported in 2/17 historical cases. All hemicolectomies were performed after delivery, 3-16 months after appendectomy. Local metastases were reported in two cases. Follow-up duration was 7-98 months for our patients and 3-48 months in 5 historical cases. No disease recurrence, distant metastases or mortality were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest series describing the extremely rare diagnosis of ANEN during pregnancy. Although pathologic characteristics varied, pregnancy outcomes were usually favorable and long-term prognosis was excellent. This data may suggest that a conservative approach to patients with ANEN diagnosis during pregnancy can be considered.

Post-hip fracture rehabilitation outcomes of diabetic and non-diabetic elderly patients

BACKGROUND

Although patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are at higher risk of hip fracture, data regarding the effect of DM on rehabilitation outcomes are limited.

METHODS

A retrospective single-centre study was conducted comparing elderly diabetic and non-diabetic patients with recent hip fracture, admitted to geriatric rehabilitation, 2014-2019. The functional independence measure (FIM) was used to assess physical and cognitive function. Delta-FIM was calculated by subtracting admission FIM from discharge FIM. One-year mortality, hospitalizations and fractures were assessed.

RESULTS

Six-hundred-thirty elderly patients, post-hip fracture were included, mean age 83 ± 7 years, 70.5% (444) women. Among them, 193 (30.6%) had type 2 DM, HbA1c 6.6 ± 1.25%. They were younger (81.4 vs. 84.3 years, p < .01) and had more co-morbidities including hypertension, chronic kidney disease, ischaemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. Baseline cognitive and motor scores were similar between groups. Delta motor-FIM was similar between diabetics and non-diabetics (15.56 ± 8.95 and 14.78 ± 8.79, respectively, p = .35). Multivariate regression analysis showed motor-FIM improvement was associated with higher BMI, male sex, and younger age, but not with DM. Cognitive FIM did not change significantly during rehabilitation in either group. Similar rates of patients were discharged to nursing care facilities. There was no difference in 1-year hospitalization or fracture rates. One-year, all-cause mortality was higher among diabetic patients (10.9 vs. 6.6%, respectively, p = .07). After adjusting for covariates, DM was associated with higher mortality risk (odds ratio = 2.78, 95% CI [1.28, 6.04], p = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with well-controlled DM have similar post-hip fracture rehabilitation potential compared with non-diabetics, despite more co-morbidities. These results support resource allocation for post-hip fracture rehabilitation among patients with DM. The higher 1-year all-cause mortality in patients with DM reinforces the need for close follow-up and control of co-morbidities in this population.

Anemia in Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes with Normal Kidney Function: Prevalence and Clinical Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Anemia is a known complication of diabetes mellitus (DM); however, its prevalence and prognostic relevance in patients with DM and pre-DM with normal kidney function is not well-defined. This study assessed the prevalence of anemia in DM and pre-DM patients and evaluated its association with clinical outcomes during 4-years' follow-up.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis included patients with DM and pre-DM referred to the Meir Medical Center Endocrine Institute during 2015. Patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min or other recognized cause of anemia were excluded. The risk of developing microvascular or macrovascular complications, or death during four years follow-up was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 622 patients (408 with DM and 214 with pre-DM) were included. Mean age was 64±10.6 years, and 70% were women. Baseline HbA1c was 7.1±1.7% and eGFR was 86.1±15.3 ml/min. At inclusion 77 (19%) patients with DM and 23 (11%) with pre-DM, had anemia (hemoglobin 11.9±0.8 and 11.8±0.8 g/dl, respectively) vs. normal hemoglobin levels of 13.8±0.9 and 13.7±0.9 g/dl, respectively in the others. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an inverse correlation between baseline hemoglobin (as a continuous variable) and mortality (P=0.035), microvascular complications (P=0.003) and eGFR decline (P<0.001), but not with macrovascular complications (P=0.567).

CONCLUSION

This study found a significant prevalence of anemia unrelated to renal failure, both in DM and pre-DM. Anemia in these patients is associated with development of microvascular complications, eGFR decline and mortality. These results underscore the need for intensive lifestyle and pharmacological interventions among these patients.

Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Pamidronate for Parathyroid Hormone-dependent Hypercalcemia in Hospitalized Patients

CONTEXT

Bisphosphonates are effective for hypercalcemia of malignancy (HOM). Efficacy and safety data for bisphosphonates in parathyroid hormone-related hypercalcemia (PTHRH) are rare, including pamidronate (Pam), which is not indicated for this condition.

OBJECTIVE

This work aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Pam for moderate-to-severe PTHRH.

METHODS

This retrospective case-control study was conducted at a tertiary care medical center. Patients included adults hospitalized with serum calcium levels greater than 12 mg/dL, from October 29, 2013 to December 17, 2019. Etiology was categorized as PTHRH or PTH-independent. Clinical and laboratory data of PTHRH patients treated with Pam (PTHRH-Pam+) were compared to Pam-untreated counterparts (PTHRH-Pam-).

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients with 37 hospitalizations for PTHRH (Pam-treated and -untreated) met the inclusion criteria. Pam was given in 24 of 37 cases (64.8%). Admission serum calcium levels for the PTHRH-Pam+ group were higher than for PTHRH-Pam- group (14.4 mg/dL vs 13.0 mg/dL, P = .005). Median total Pam dose was 60 mg (range, 30-180 mg) in the treated group. Serum calcium decreased 3.5 mg/dL for PTHRH-Pam+ vs 1.6 mg/dL for PTHRH-Pam- (P = .003). No PTHRH-Pam+ patients developed hypocalcemia or acute kidney injury. Nadir serum phosphorus levels were lower in the PTHRH-Pam+ vs PTHRH-Pam- group (1.7 mg/dL vs 2.4 mg/dL, respectively, P = .004). Three PTHRH-Pam+ patients developed severe hypophosphatemia; all resolved with intravenous and oral supplementation. Seventeen patients underwent parathyroidectomy, of whom 10 received Pam within 28 days preoperatively. Postoperatively, 4 developed hypocalcemia and 3 hypophosphatemia.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that Pam is effective and safe for treating PTHRH, while ensuring close laboratory monitoring of calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Larger, prospective studies are needed to establish the role of Pam and other potent bisphosphonates in moderate-to-severe PTHRH.

Management of Asymptomatic Sporadic Nonfunctioning Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (ASPEN) ≤2 cm: Study Protocol for a Prospective Observational Study

Introduction: The optimal treatment for small, asymptomatic, nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (NF-PanNEN) is still controversial. European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) guidelines recommend a watchful strategy for asymptomatic NF-PanNEN <2 cm of diameter. Several retrospective series demonstrated that a non-operative management is safe and feasible, but no prospective studies are available. Aim of the ASPEN study is to evaluate the optimal management of asymptomatic NF-PanNEN ≤2 cm comparing active surveillance and surgery.

Methods: ASPEN is a prospective international observational multicentric cohort study supported by ENETS. The study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the identification code NCT03084770. Based on the incidence of NF-PanNEN the number of expected patients to be enrolled in the ASPEN study is 1,000 during the study period (2017–2022). Primary endpoint is disease/progression-free survival, defined as the time from study enrolment to the first evidence of progression (active surveillance group) or recurrence of disease (surgery group) or death from disease. Inclusion criteria are: age >18 years, the presence of asymptomatic sporadic NF-PanNEN ≤2 cm proven by a positive fine-needle aspiration (FNA) or by the presence of a measurable nodule on high-quality imaging techniques that is positive at ⁶⁸Gallium DOTATOC-PET scan.

Conclusion: The ASPEN study is designed to investigate if an active surveillance of asymptomatic NF-PanNEN ≤2 cm is safe as compared to surgical approach.

Appendiceal tumor incidence and an in-depth look at appendiceal neuroendocrine neoplasm in a cohort of 8,162 appendectomies: Full dataset

Data describing appendiceal tumor incidence and epidemiology is limited. We collated data from appendectomy pathology reports between 2005 and 2018 in our institution and examined patient epidemiological and appendectomy pathological features [1]. Overall, 8,328 appendectomies were performed at our institution over the pre-specified time period and 8,162 patients had sufficient epidemiological data to be included in the analysis. A total of 153 patients (1.9%) were diagnosed with appendiceal tumors, of which 57 (37.3%) were Appendiceal Neuroendocrine Neoplasm (ANEN), 35 (22.9%) were mucinous cystadenoma and 34 (22.2%) ovarian cancer metastases. We further examined the ANEN cases in order to characterize initial patient and tumor characteristics, to evaluate the performance of further investigations and interventions, and ultimately to study the behavior of these tumors over time.

Temporal trends in incidence, evaluation and management of neuroendocrine neoplasms of the appendix: 14 years' experience

BACKGROUND

Information regarding temporal trends in appendiceal neuroendocrine neoplasms (ANEN) is limited. This retrospective study evaluated temporal trends in ANEN incidence and management over a 14-year period.

METHODS

Appendectomy pathology reports from a single tertiary center were reviewed.

RESULTS

During 2005-2018, 8327 appendectomies were performed and 57 ANENs were diagnosed (average age 31.7 ± 17 years; 70.2% women; 17.5% Arab ethnicity; and 22.8% < 18 years of age). The cohort was divided according to year of diagnosis (Period A 2005-2011; Period B 2012-2018). No differences were found in ANEN incidence (0.75% and 0.62%, respectively, p = 0.104), epidemiologic or pathologic characteristics between periods. In period B, pathology reports were more comprehensive and use of specific imaging and biochemical studies was more prevalent. Hemicolectomy rates and results were similar (8 in Period A, 7 in Period B, p = 0.925). All patients remained alive for the duration of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

No temporal changes in epidemiological, clinical or pathological features of ANENs were noted. Although clinico-pathological evaluation was more detailed after 2011, there was no change in rates of hemicolectomy or disease prognosis.

The prognostic value of lymph node ratio in Medullary thyroid carcinoma: A multi-center study

INTRODUCTION

The lymph node ratio (LNR), which represents the proportion of metastatic lymph nodes resected, has been found to be a prognostic variable in several cancers, but data for Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) are sparse. The aim of this study was to determine the value of the LNR in predicting outcome in patients with MTC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective multicenter study design of 107 patients with MTC who underwent total thyroidectomy with neck dissection between 1984 and 2016. The association of LNR with patient and tumor characteristics and prognostic factors was evaluated.

RESULTS

Study population consisted of 53.3% female, mean age at diagnosis was 50.3 ± 18.4 years; 16.8% had inherited MTC. LNR was positively correlated with tumor size (p = 0.018) and inversely correlated with age at diagnosis (p = 0.024). A higher LNR was associated with extrathyroidal extension (p < 0.001), multifocality (p = 0.001), bilateral tumor (p = 0.002), distant metastases (p < 0.001), and tumor recurrence (OR = 14.7, p < 0.001). LNR was also correlated to postoperative calcitonin levels (p < 0.001) and carcinoembryonic antigen (p = 0.011). LNR >0.1 was associated with shorter disease-specific survival in patients at risk: tumor larger than 20 mm at diagnosis (p = 0.013), sporadic MTC (p = 0.01), and age above 40 years at diagnosis (p = 0.004). Cox multivariate survival analysis revealed LNR as the only significant independent factor for disease free survival (p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that LNR correlates well with patient and tumor characteristics and prognostic variables. We suggest that LNR should be considered an important parameter for predicting outcome in MTC.

A RETROPERITONEAL SEMINOMA WITH ENTRAPPED NERVE GANGLION MASQUERADING AS A PARAGANGLIOMA

Objective

The differential diagnosis of retroperito-neal tumors includes lymphoid, germ cell, and neurogenic tumors such as paraganglioma. Paragangliomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors of the autonomic nervous system, which may secrete catecholamines and their metabolites. Clinical features include sustained or paroxysmal hypertension, headaches, sweating, and palpitations. Here we present an unusual case of a retroperitoneal tumor entrapping a sympathetic nerve ganglion and mimicking paraganglioma.

Methods

A 57-year-old man with a history of controlled hypertension presented with paroxysms of tachycardia, flushing, high blood pressure, and headache. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring showed uncontrolled labile hypertension with a normal nocturnal dip. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) demonstrated a 6.1 cm mass in the right retroperitoneum with adjacent lymphadenopathy. Paraganglioma was suspected and 24-hour urine demonstrated elevated normetanephrines (575 mcg/24 hours; normal, 5 to 290 mcg/24 hours) and vanillylmandelic acid (8.3 mg/24 hours; normal, 0.5 to 6.6 mg/24 hours). 68-Gallium DOTATATE positron emission tomography/CT showed weak uptake in the retroperitoneal mass and no other mass lesions.

Results

Following preparation with alpha-adrenergic blockers, surgical excision was performed with diagnostic and curative intent. Postoperatively, hypertension and paroxysmal symptoms resolved completely. The histopathology report described seminoma with an entrapped large ganglion within the tumor.

Conclusion

We describe a retroperitoneal seminoma with an entrapped ganglion causing hypertension and paroxysmal symptoms, with laboratory and imaging features compatible with paraganglioma. Awareness of the rare possibility of mechanical pressure on a ganglion, within the differential diagnosis of retroperitoneal mass and sympathetic symptoms may aid in clinical decision making in atypical cases.

Clinico-pathologic and dynamic prognostic factors in sporadic and familial medullary thyroid carcinoma: an Israeli multi-center study

OBJECTIVE

Multiple clinical, pathological and biochemical variables, including the response to initial treatment, are associated with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) prognosis. Studies that include separate analyses of familial and sporadic MTC patients followed for long period are scarce. This study evaluated the association between baseline clinico-pathologic variables and response to initial treatment and short- and long-term disease outcomes in sporadic and familial MTC.

METHODS

Patients treated for MTC at four tertiary medical centers were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and pathological data were collected. The outcomes measured included disease persistence 1 year after diagnosis, disease persistence at last follow-up, disease-related mortality (DRM) and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 193 patients (mean age: 48.9 ± 18.7, 44.7% males), of whom 18.1% were familial cases. The mean follow-up period was 10.1 ± 9.4 years (8.5 ± 8.1 in sporadic and 16.9 ± 11.6 in familial MTC). Disease persistence 1-year after diagnosis and at last follow-up was detected in 56.1 and 60.4% patients, respectively. All-cause and DRM were 28.5 and 12.6%, respectively. Extra-thyroidal extension (ETE) and distant metastases (DM) were associated with disease persistence at last follow-up. ETE and DM were also significantly associated with DRM. Complete remission 1 year after diagnosis had high correlation with no evidence of disease at last follow-up (Cramer's V measure of association 0.884, P < 0.001) and with 100% disease-specific survival (Cramer's V measure of association 0.38, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Apart from clinico-pathologic parameters, close correlation was found between 1-year status and long-term prognosis. These results underscore the importance of combining classical and dynamic factors for both sporadic and familial MTC prognostication and treatment decision making.

The "combined team" transition clinic model in endocrinology results in high adherence rates and patient satisfaction

Background A structured transition process for young adults with chronic medical conditions from pediatric to adult clinics is strongly promoted. However, the most appropriate transition model has not yet been determined. This study evaluated the effect of a "combined team" Endocrinology Transition Clinic model, including a joint meeting with the patient and pediatric and adult endocrinologists, regarding medical treatment, adherence to follow-up and patient satisfaction with the process. Methods Clinical and demographic data of patients admitted to the Endocrinology Transition Clinic were collected. The clinical impact of the transition meeting was evaluated based on treatment modifications and patient adherence to follow-up. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a questionnaire. Results From September 2014 through November 2018, 107 patients attended the Endocrinology Transition Clinic, 85.0% were females, mean age 19.7 ± 2.2 years (range 16-29), 97.2% were unmarried. The most common endocrine disorders were obesity (41.1%), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (41.1%) and ovarian hyperandrogenism (38.3%). The Transition Clinic visit modified treatment and/or evaluation for 48 (44.8%) patients. Adherence to follow-up in the adult clinic was 82.9% and was not associated with gender (p = 0.366), ethnicity (p = 0.725), age at transition (p = 0.479) or obesity (p = 0.375). Overall satisfaction reported by 65/85 patients was high (86.8%), although higher among patients who were adherent to follow-up (89.4% vs. 65.6%, p = 0.006). Conclusions The "combined team" transition model in endocrinology requires relatively few resources and has considerable clinical impact, high adherence to follow-up and high patient satisfaction rate. Implementing this model at the interface of pediatric and adult endocrinology units, and possibly in other medical fields, is feasible and efficient.

Anti-thyroid antibodies, parietal cell antibodies and tissue transglutaminase antibodies in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease

INTRODUCTION

The co-existence of tissue-specific autoantibodies in autoimmune thyroid disease (ATD) is well established. The published prevalence of anti-parietal cell antibodies (PC-Ab) is 20-25%, and that of celiac antibodies is 2-5%. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of PC-Ab and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG-Ab) in patients with ATD and to evaluate the correlation between anti-thyroid antibodies and the other antibodies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The files of 120 Israeli Jews and Arabs with ATD were evaluated for anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (Tg-Ab), anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab), PC-Ab and tTG-Ab. For patients with positive PC-Ab and/or tTG-Ab, upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy results were recorded. Gastrin levels were collected in patients with positive PC-Ab.

RESULTS

Twelve (10%) males and 108 (90%) females were evaluated, of whom 93.33% had Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Thirty-four (28.3%) subjects had positive PC-Ab. This rate was not affected by gender, ethnicity or thyroid disease. Abnormal gastroscopy findings were documented in 95.2% of the upper GI endoscopies. The mean gastrin level in this subgroup was 660.4 pg/ml. Five of 114 tTG-Ab tests were positive (4.4%). All were females with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Rates were equal among Jews and Arabs. Higher TPO-Ab levels were associated with higher risk for PC-Ab positivity (p = 0.027), but not tTG-positivity. Higher Tg-Ab levels were not associated with higher levels of other antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the frequency of PC-Ab and tTG-Ab positivity in ATD, checking for the presence of these two entities should be an integral part of the workup of this disease.

Temporal Trends in the Presentation, Treatment, and Outcome of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: An Israeli Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

The widespread use of neck sonography in recent years has led to a dramatic increase in the detection of thyroid cancer, accompanied by changes in the clinicopathologic features of the disease. However, small papillary carcinomas account for the bulk of this increase, while little is known about temporal changes in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). The aim of this study was to evaluate trends in the presentation, treatment, and outcome of MTC.

METHODS

Patients treated for MTC at four medical centers in Israel were divided into three groups by year of diagnosis: 19811995 (period A), 1996-2005 (period B), and 2006-2016 (period C). Clinicopathologic and survival data were collected retrospectively from the medical files and compared between the groups.

RESULTS

The cohort included 182 patients (54.9% female) with a mean age of 49.2 ± 18.7 years: 43 (23.6%) diagnosed in period A, 54 (29.7%) in period B, and 85 (46.7%) in period C. No significant differences were found between the groups in primary tumor size (25.7 ± 18.9 mm, 26.6 ± 18 mm, and 23.7 ± 17.6 mm, respectively), proportion of micro-MTC (30.8%, 20.0%, and 25.3%, respectively), or TNM staging. Age at diagnosis significantly increased over time (38.7 ± 17.2 years, 51.7 ± 18.4 years, and 53.7 ± 17.7 years, respectively; p < 0.001), and the rate of familial MTC significantly decreased (41.9%, 14.8%, and 8.2%, respectively; p = 0.002). Although the implementation of cervical lymph node dissection increased (62.1%, 78.4%, and 85%, respectively; p = 0.01), detection of metastatic lymph nodes decreased from 88.9% in period A to 65.0% in periods B and C (p = 0.06). There was no difference between the groups in disease-specific survival or disease-free state at one year from diagnosis (37.5%, 43.1%, and 50%, respectively) and last follow-up (27%, 41.2%, and 48%, respectively). Similar findings on MTC presentation and outcomes were obtained when only patients with non-familial MTC were analyzed.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike differentiated thyroid cancer, most of the presenting features of MTC have not changed over time. The most significant temporal change is a decreased rate of familial MTC. Despite more extensive surgery and the use of new treatment modalities in recent years, significant improvement in disease-related outcomes were not found.

Vitamin D diminishes the high platelet aggregation of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Platelet activation is found in inflammatory conditions and implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic medical conditions, such as atherosclerosis, coronary vascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes mellitus (DM). HbA1c is inversely related to vitamin D25 levels in individuals with and without DM. This study aimed to determine the relation between platelet aggregation, vitamin D and HbA1c among healthy individuals and those with Type 2 DM (T2DM). The direct effect of vitamin D1, 25 (calcitriol) on platelet aggregation was also investigated. The study included four groups: A. normoglycemic Control group: HbA1c<5.7%; B. Pre-diabetes (DM): 5.7% ≥ HbA1c ≤ 6.4%; C. DM on aspirin therapy: HbA1c>6.4%(+)Asp.; and D. DM not on aspirin therapy: HbA1c > 6.4%(-)Asp. Platelet aggregation was tested with and without calcitriol or saline pre-treatment, using collagen or adenosine diphosphate (ADP) as agonists. Platelet aggregation was higher in DM(-)Asp group compared to normoglycemic and DM(+)Asp, and higher, but not significant compared to pre-DM. The entire study population exhibited negative correlation between HbA1c and serum concentration of vitamin D25. Excluding DM(+)Asp, aggregation induced by collagen was significantly higher in patients with insufficient (<76 nmol/L) vitamin D25 compared to sufficient (≥76 nmol/L) vitamin D25. In this cohort, a negative correlation was found between serum concentrations of vitamin D25 and collagen-induced percent maximum (%max) aggregation and area under curve (AUC) aggregation. In the DM(-)Asp group, collagen-induced aggregation was reduced by approximately 25% after calcitriol treatment. Calcitriol decreased ADP-induced aggregation of control and DM(+)Asp groups to approximately 85% of saline treatment. We conclude that glycemic control is inversely associated with high platelet aggregation and low vitamin D25 levels. This elevated aggregation could be regulated by a novel, direct effect of calcitriol, indicating a beneficial effect of vitamin D on vascular complications related to diabetes. We offer a possible non-genomic mechanism for the vitamin D/Vitamin D receptor (VDR) pathway.

VARIATIONS IN CLINICAL AND IMAGING FINDINGS BY TIME OF DIAGNOSIS IN FEMALES WITH HYPOPITUITARISM ATTRIBUTED TO LYMPHOCYTIC HYPOPHYSITIS

OBJECTIVE

To describe the various patterns of presentation, including assisting analyses, associated with the timing of diagnosis of females with hypopituitarism and suspected clinical diagnosis of lymphocytic hypophysitis.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 9 consecutive females with pituitary dysfunction developed during or after pregnancy. All subjects were treated in our clinics between 2008 and 2014. Data were collected on clinical characteristics, pituitary hormone levels, and imaging findings.

RESULTS

The study group included 9 patients with a mean age 33.7 ± 7.8 years at delivery. The probable cause of disease was lymphocytic hypophysitis. Headache or specific symptoms/signs of hypopituitarism appeared within 1 year of delivery. Five patients had headache, and 8 had difficulty breastfeeding or amenorrhea. Laboratory findings included central hypocortisolism (8/9 patients), hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (8/9), and central hypothyroidism (6/7). Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels were low in 8/8 patients. Prolactin levels were low in 3/9 patients, and 1 patient had diabetes insipidus. Seven patients were diagnosed less than 1 year from symptom onset; 4 (57%) complained of headaches, and 5 (71%) had panhypopituitarism. Two patients were diagnosed later. Both had difficulty breastfeeding and amenorrhea, and one also had headaches. Both had panhypopituitarism and reduced pituitary volume. None of the patients fully recovered pituitary function. Normalization of the thyrotroph axis occurred in 3 patients, gonadotroph function in 3, the corticotroph axis in 2, and IGF-1 normalized in 1 subject.

CONCLUSION

Hypopituitarism attributed to lymphocytic hypophysitis may present during pregnancy or early postpartum period with a clear clinical picture, or later, with indolent and nonspecific symptoms and signs.

The thyroid hormone-αvβ3 integrin axis in ovarian cancer: regulation of gene transcription and MAPK-dependent proliferation

Ovarian carcinoma is the fifth common cause of cancer death in women, despite advanced therapeutic approaches. αvβ3 integrin, a plasma membrane receptor, binds thyroid hormones (L-thyroxine, T4; 3,5,3'-triiodo-L-thyronine, T3) and is overexpressed in ovarian cancer. We have demonstrated selective binding of fluorescently labeled hormones to αvβ3-positive ovarian cancer cells but not to integrin-negative cells. Physiologically relevant T3 (1 nM) and T4 (100 nM) concentrations in OVCAR-3 (high αvβ3) and A2780 (low αvβ3) cells promoted αv and β3 transcription in association with basal integrin levels. This transcription was effectively blocked by RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) peptide and neutralizing αvβ3 antibodies, excluding T3-induced β3 messenger RNA, suggesting subspecialization of T3 and T4 binding to the integrin receptor pocket. We have provided support for extracellular regulated kinase (ERK)-mediated transcriptional regulation of the αv monomer by T3 and of β3 monomer by both hormones and documented a rapid (30-120 min) and dose-dependent (0.1-1000 nM) ERK activation. OVCAR-3 cells and αvβ3-deficient HEK293 cells treated with αvβ3 blockers confirmed the requirement for an intact thyroid hormone-integrin interaction in ERK activation. In addition, novel data indicated that T4, but not T3, controls integrin's outside-in signaling by phosphorylating tyrosine 759 in the β3 subunit. Both hormones induced cell proliferation (cell counts), survival (Annexin-PI), viability (WST-1) and significantly reduced the expression of genes that inhibit cell cycle (p21, p16), promote mitochondrial apoptosis (Nix, PUMA) and tumor suppression (GDF-15, IGFBP-6), particularly in cells with high integrin expression. At last, we have confirmed that hypothyroid environment attenuated ovarian cancer growth using a novel experimental platform that exploited paired euthyroid and severe hypothyroid serum samples from human subjects. To conclude, our data define a critical role for thyroid hormones as potent αvβ3-ligands, driving ovarian cancer cell proliferation and suggest that disruption of this axis may present a novel treatment strategy in this aggressive disease.

Impact of glucose level on morbidity and mortality in elderly with diabetes and pre-diabetes

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) increases with age and reaches 25% in those older than age 65 years. Pre-diabetes status is also very common in the elderly, and is present in about half of those age 75 years and older. Many physicians care for elderly patients with diabetes and pre-diabetes, dealing with the challenge of controlling glucose levels and improving health with minimal adverse events. Over the last decade, research on diabetes among the elderly population has proliferated, adding new information on this topic. This review summarizes the updated medical literature on diabetes and pre-diabetes in the elderly, including the significance of pre-diabetic conditions, new-onset DM in the elderly and long-standing DM. The role of therapeutic intervention and the level of glycemic control for this population are discussed in particular.

Impaired decline in renal threshold for glucose during pregnancy - a possible novel mechanism for gestational diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

The renal threshold for glucose (RT(G)) is determined by the nephron's reabsorptive capacity. Glucose is reabsorbed through sodium-coupled glucose cotransporters in the proximal tubules. During pregnancy, renal glucose reabsorptive capacity decreases, possibly, due to reduced glucose transporter expression. Our hypothesis is that inadequate decrease in RT(G) during pregnancy will make women more prone to develop gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

Pregnant women (n = 40) who were referred to our center for oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) were included in the analysis. Plasma glucose levels and urinary glucose excretion were measured for 4 h after 100 g oral glucose load. These data were used to calculate RT(G) . The subjects were divided into two cohorts, GDM and non-GDM, according to the OGTT results. Mean RT(G) was compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Fifteen (37.5%) of the women were diagnosed with GDM. Seventeen participants had only trace amounts of urinary glucose excretion, and no value of RT(G) could be determined; RT(G) was determined in the other 23 subjects. Among these 23 women, 13 were diagnosed as GDM, and 10 had normal OGTT. RT(G) was lower in the non-GDM women (146 ± 14 mg/dL) than in the GDM women (182 ± 18 mg/dL), p < 0.001.

CONCLUSIONS

Gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with higher RT(G) during pregnancy compared with non-GDM. These results support our hypothesis that inadequate decrease of the RT(G) may have a pathophysiological role in the development of GDM.

New-onset diabetes in elderly subjects: association between HbA1c levels, mortality, and coronary revascularization

OBJECTIVE

New-onset diabetes mellitus (DM) in elderly patients is associated with increased risk of diabetes complications and mortality. It is unknown whether glycemic control in this population influences the mortality risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The current study was conducted using the computerized database of the Sharon-Shomron District of Clalit Health Services in Israel. Included in the study were subjects 65 years of age and above with new-onset DM. The primary outcome measures were all-cause mortality and coronary revascularization procedures with either percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 2,994) were stratified into four groups according to their mean HbA1c levels during the follow-up period (<6.5% [48 mmol/mol], 6.5-6.99% [48-52 mmol/mol], 7-7.49% [53-57 mmol/mol], and ≥7.5% [58 mmol/mol]). During a mean follow-up of 5.54 ± 2.1 years, 1,173 (39.17%) participants died and 285 (9.51%) underwent coronary revascularization. An HbA1c level >7.5% (58 mmol/mol) was associated with a significantly increased all-cause mortality rate (hazard ratio [HR] 1.74 [95% CI 1.2-1.8], P < 0.0001). This difference remained statistically significant after a multivariate model adjusted for the conventional cardiovascular risk factors and for the use of hypoglycemic agents and statins. Kaplan-Meier survival plots revealed lower survival rates in this group of patients. Coronary revascularization rates were highest among subjects with HbA1c 6.5-6.99% (48-52 mmol/mol) (HR 1.6 [1.01-2.4], P < 0.05) and lowest in patients with HbA1c ≥7.5% (58 mmol/mol).

CONCLUSIONS

An HbA1c level >7.5% (58 mmol/mol) is associated with increased risk for all-cause mortality and with a lower revascularization rate in elderly patients with new-onset DM.

C-reactive protein level as a predictor of transient vs. sustained anticardiolipin antibody positivity

The antiphospholipid (APLA) syndrome is defined as the occurrence of venous or arterial thromboembolism or recurrent fetal loss in patients with a positive anticardiolipin (aCL) or lupus anticoagulant test on two occasions, 3 months apart. In this study, we sought to determine whether the level of C-reactive protein (CRP), a non-specific inflammatory marker, at the time of the initial positive aCL test is a predictor of the transient vs. sustained nature of the aCL. Patients with a positive aCL antibody test underwent high sensitivity (hs) CRP testing. A repeat aCL antibody assay was performed on a serum sample obtained 3-4 months later. The positive and negative predictive values of the hs-CRP assay as a predictor of the second aCL result were calculated and correlation between the hs-CRP result and second aCL result was determined. Fifty-four consecutive patients with a positive aCL test were studied. Forty-two had a positive aCL-2. The predictive value of a negative CRP test for a positive aCL-2 was found to be 82.5% (33 of 42 patients). A positive CRP was able to predict a negative aCL-2 in 35.7% of cases (nine of 14 patients). Our results suggest that the hs-CRP test may be useful in the assessment of patients with a positive aCL antibody test. A concurrently performed negative hs-CRP test result may be useful in making diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.