Sleep apnea patients with epiglottic collapse elevate their larynx more with swallowing; videofluoroscopic swallowing study of 80 patients

OBJECTIVE

The epiglottis plays an integral role in the swallowing mechanism and is also implicated as an obstruction site in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The underlying causes of epiglottic collapse during sleep remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the cognitive functions using the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA) and the neurophysiological and anatomical factors using videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS). We compared patients with OSA exhibiting epiglottic collapse to those without, assessing differences in anatomical or neurophysiological characteristics.

METHODS

The study included 12 patients with epiglottic collapse (Epi-group) and 68 without (non-Epi group), all undergoing overnight polysomnography (PSG), drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE), LOTCA, and VFSS. Oral transit time (OTT), pharyngeal delay time (PDT), and pharyngeal transit time (PTT) were considered as neurophysiological traits, and laryngeal elevation length (LE) as anatomical trait, and were measured across various test diets (10 ml of liquid, soft, or solid).

RESULTS

The study comprised 80 individuals, 57 men and 23 women, with no significant age, sex, body mass index or PSG parameters between groups, or DISE findings, with the exception of epiglottic collapse. Swallowing metrics from VFSS were normal, with no differences in OTT, PDT, PTT, or LOTCA scores. Notably, patients with epiglottic collapse showed a greater laryngeal elevation when swallowing soft and solid foods (p = 0.025 and p = 0.048, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with epiglottic collapse do not exhibit neurophysiological or cognitive impairments when compared to non-Epi group. However, the Epi-group displayed a significantly increased laryngeal elevation length. This suggests that anatomical factors may have a more substantial role in the development of epiglottic collapse than neurophysiological factors.

Device-related outcomes following hypoglossal nerve stimulator implantation

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) has been widely used to treat obstructive sleep apnea in selected patients. Here we evaluate rates of revision and explant related to HGNS implantation and assess types of adverse events contributing to revision and explant.

METHODS

Post-market surveillance data for HGNS implanted between January 1, 2018 and March 31, 2022, were collected. Event rates and risk were calculated using the post-market surveillance event counts and sales volume over the same period. Indications were categorized for analysis. Descriptive statistics were reported and freedom from explant or revision curves were grouped by year of implantation.

RESULTS

Of the 20,881 HGNS implants assessed, rates of explant and revision within the first year were 0.723% and 1.542%, respectively. The most common indication for explant was infection (0.378%) and for revision was surgical correction (0.680%). Of the 5,820 devices with three-year post-implantation data, the rate of explant was 2.680% and of revision was 3.557%. During this same interval, elective removal (1.478%) was the most common indication, and for revisions, surgical correction (1.134%).

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of HGNS is comparable in the real world setting to published clinical trial data. Rates of explant and revision are low, supporting a satisfactory safety profile for this technology.

Palate shape is associated with Unilateral Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to determine the potential association between palate shape and unilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) outcomes.

METHODS

Preoperative drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) videos were reviewed and scored by 3 blinded reviewers to determine airway narrowing at the hard-soft palate junction (HP), soft palate genu, and inferior velum, as described by Woodson (2014). Scoring was as follows: 1-open airway, 2-narrow, 3-severe narrowing. Overall palate shape (oblique, intermediate, or vertical) was determined based on prior criteria. Successful surgical treatment was defined by the HNS titration polysomnogram as a reduction of ≥50% in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) to <15 events/h.

RESULTS

Of 332 adults, the majority was male (77%) with an average BMI of 29.2 ± 3.6 kg/m2 . Overall success rate was 73%. Success rate was lower in patients with vertical palate shape compared with the other shapes (56% vs. 75%, p = 0.029). HP score 3 compared with scores 2 and 1 was associated with lower success rates (60% vs. 76%, p = 0.028), but genu and velum scores were not associated with outcomes. Patients with both HP score 3 and complete oropharyngeal lateral wall-related obstruction had notably worse outcomes (22% vs. 74%, p = 0.026). HP score 3 (OR 0.45, 95%CI 0.22-0.92) and vertical palate shape (OR 0.33, 95%CI 0.15-0.78) were independently associated with lower odds of surgical response after adjustment for DISE findings, age, gender, and BMI.

CONCLUSION

Vertical palate shape and narrowing at the hard-soft palate junction are independently associated with lower HNS surgical success rates.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 134:981-986, 2024.

Comparison of clinical pathways for hypoglossal nerve stimulation management: in-laboratory titration polysomnography vs home-based efficacy sleep testing

STUDY OBJECTIVES

We conducted this study to evaluate whether laboratory or home-based hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) management would have equivalent objective and subjective obstructive sleep apnea outcomes 6 months after activation.

METHODS

Patients undergoing standard-of-care HNS implantation were randomly assigned in a prospective, multicenter clinical trial to either a 3-month postactivation in-laboratory titration polysomnography (tPSG) or an efficacy home sleep study (eHST) with tPSG by exception for eHST nonresponders at 5 months. Both groups underwent an eHST 6 months postactivation.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were randomly assigned. Patients experienced equivalent decreases in the apnea-hypopnea index (mean difference: -0.01 events/h [-8.75, 8.74]) across both groups with HNS; the selection of tPSG or eHST did not associate with therapy response rates (tPSG vs eHST: 63.2% vs 59.1%). The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (median of differences: 1 [-1, 3]) and device usage (median of differences: 0.0 hours [-1.3, 1.3]) outcomes were similar but did not meet a priori statistical equivalence criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective, multicenter, randomized clinical trial demonstrated that patients undergoing HNS implantation experienced statistically equivalent improvements in objective obstructive sleep apnea outcomes and similar improvements in daytime sleepiness regardless of whether they underwent tPSG. HNS titration with tPSG may not be required for all postoperative patients.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; Name: Inspire Home Study: Utilization of Home Monitoring During Therapy Optimization in Patients With an Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation System (Comparison of Home Sleep Testing vs. In-lab Polysomnography Testing) (HOME); URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04416542; Identifier: NCT04416542.

CITATION

Kent D, Huyett P, Yu P, et al. Comparison of clinical pathways for hypoglossal nerve stimulation management: in-laboratory titration polysomnography vs home-based efficacy sleep testing. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(11):1905-1912.

International Consensus Statement on Obstructive Sleep Apnea

BACKGROUND

Evaluation and interpretation of the literature on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) allows for consolidation and determination of the key factors important for clinical management of the adult OSA patient. Toward this goal, an international collaborative of multidisciplinary experts in sleep apnea evaluation and treatment have produced the International Consensus statement on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (ICS:OSA).

METHODS

Using previously defined methodology, focal topics in OSA were assigned as literature review (LR), evidence-based review (EBR), or evidence-based review with recommendations (EBR-R) formats. Each topic incorporated the available and relevant evidence which was summarized and graded on study quality. Each topic and section underwent iterative review and the ICS:OSA was created and reviewed by all authors for consensus.

RESULTS

The ICS:OSA addresses OSA syndrome definitions, pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors for disease, screening methods, diagnostic testing types, multiple treatment modalities, and effects of OSA treatment on multiple OSA-associated comorbidities. Specific focus on outcomes with positive airway pressure (PAP) and surgical treatments were evaluated.

CONCLUSION

This review of the literature consolidates the available knowledge and identifies the limitations of the current evidence on OSA. This effort aims to create a resource for OSA evidence-based practice and identify future research needs. Knowledge gaps and research opportunities include improving the metrics of OSA disease, determining the optimal OSA screening paradigms, developing strategies for PAP adherence and longitudinal care, enhancing selection of PAP alternatives and surgery, understanding health risk outcomes, and translating evidence into individualized approaches to therapy.

Sleep study measures on post-operative night one following expansion pharyngoplasty for obstructive sleep apnea

PURPOSE

To examine the changes in measures of sleep apnea severity and hypoxemia on the first post-operative night (PON1) following expansion pharyngoplasty as a means to assess the safety of same day discharge after surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective cohort study of subjects with moderate-severe obstructive sleep apnea who underwent expansion pharyngoplasty at a single academic sleep surgical practice. A WatchPAT study was performed on the night immediately following surgery (PON1) and comparisons were made to baseline sleep testing.

RESULTS

Twenty subjects who had a mean age of 45.7 ± 10.8 years old and a mean body-mass index (BMI) of 31.4 ± 3.2 kg/m² were enrolled. Patients had baseline severe OSA with mean apnea hypopnea index (AHI) 39.4 ± 19.5/h, O2 nadir 80.8 ± 6.1 % and time with oxygen saturation below 88 % (T88) 12.3 ± 13.2 min. Measures of sleep apnea and nocturnal hypoxemia were not significantly different on PON1. AHI was increased by >20 % in 11 (55.0 %) patients. One patient demonstrated a >10 % worsening in O2 nadir, and 8 patients (45.0 %) demonstrated a >20 % worsening in T88. BMI over 32 was associated with elevated odds of worsening in T88, and anesthesia involving ketamine was associated with lower odds of a 20 % worsening in AHI or T88.

CONCLUSIONS

On PON1 following expansion pharyngoplasty, AHI and nocturnal hypoxemia are stable overall but variable on an individual basis. The decision for admission should therefore be made on a case-by-case basis. Further research is need to elucidate definitive predictors of worsening measures on PON1.

What Is Snoring?

This Patient Page describes the causes, symptoms, and treatments for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

Low protease activity in B cell follicles promotes retention of intact antigens after immunization

The structural integrity of vaccine antigens is critical to the generation of protective antibody responses, but the impact of protease activity on vaccination in vivo is poorly understood. We characterized protease activity in lymph nodes and found that antigens were rapidly degraded in the subcapsular sinus, paracortex, and interfollicular regions, whereas low protease activity and antigen degradation rates were detected in the vicinity of follicular dendritic cells (FDCs). Correlated with these findings, immunization regimens designed to target antigen to FDCs led to germinal centers dominantly targeting intact antigen, whereas traditional immunizations led to much weaker responses that equally targeted the intact immunogen and antigen breakdown products. Thus, spatially compartmentalized antigen proteolysis affects humoral immunity and can be exploited.

0755 Comparison of clinical pathways for upper airway stimulation management: in-laboratory titration polysomnography versus home-based efficacy sleep testing

Introduction

Upper airway stimulation (UAS) therapy is an alternative treatment option for select CPAP-intolerant patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Current standard-of-care management uses in-laboratory polysomnography for titration of UAS stimulation amplitude (tPSG) after 3 months of patient self-titration at home. This home monitoring study was designed to evaluate whether tPSG or efficacy home sleep test (eHST) with tPSG by exception for eHST non-responders would have non-inferior apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) outcomes.

Methods

Enrolled patients underwent UAS implantation as part of regular clinical care and were randomized at the activation visit 1:1 between tPSG or eHST for the 3-month post-activation visit. If eHST results were suboptimal (AHI &gt; 15 events/h or &lt; 50% reduction from baseline AHI) patients underwent tPSG titration at 5 months. Both groups had 2-night eHSTs at 6 months post-activation. The primary endpoint was 6-month AHI equivalence between arms (defined as ± 15 events/h). Secondary endpoints were equivalence of Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS; ± 2), oxygen desaturation index (ODI; ± 15 events/h), and nightly UAS device usage (± 0.5 h).

Results

The study randomized 60 patients from August 2020 through September 2021, who were primarily middle aged (57 ± 10 years), male (67%), Caucasian (98%), and overweight (BMI 29 ± 3 kg/m2), with severe OSA (AHI 35 ± 16). Eleven patients withdrew from the study early. As of December 2021, 41 and 36 patients have completed 3- and 6-month follow-up visits, respectively. Six-month visit AHI, ESS, ODI, and device usage data between arms is currently blinded and is expected to be complete by Q2 2021 prior to SLEEP 2022.

Conclusion

If the study demonstrates equivalent 6-month AHI, ESS, ODI, and usage outcomes, the use of eHST to ascertain therapy efficacy prior to tPSG could be a non-inferior alternative management option to tPSG.

Support (If Any)

Sponsored by Inspire Medical Systems, Inc.

0764 Evaluation of cloud-connected home sensors of apnea-hypopnea index versus polysomnography and home sleep test during upper airway stimulation home titration

Introduction

A growing number of cloud-connected sensors can longitudinally record apnea hypopnea index (AHI) at home. The Ectosense NightOwl is an FDA-approved peripheral arterial tomography device; the Withings Sleep Analyzer mat is an under-mattress sensor with AHI data for retrospective research use (CE marked, not FDA approved). We used these sensors to monitor patients with upper airway stimulation (UAS) therapy during therapy acclimatization and post-titration follow-up and compared sensor AHI to polysomnography (PSG) and home sleep test (HST) AHIs.

Methods

Enrolled patients underwent UAS implantation as part of regular clinical care and were required to have a smartphone. The Ectosense and Withings sensors were distributed at UAS device activation. Patients were asked to use NightOwl weekly, and Withings provided nightly AHI. Sleep studies (PSG & HST) occurred at 3 and 6-mo post implant. Ectosense & Withings AHI were averaged and correlated against the nearest 3- and 6-month sleep study AHIs.

Results

Patients were 67% male, aged 57 ± 10 years. Smartphone platforms were 59% Apple iOS, 24% Google Android, and 17% Unknown. As of October 2021, 45 patients have had near-simultaneous Withings and PSG/HST AHI, 35 have had near-simultaneous NightOwl and PSG/HST AHI. The Withings AHI was fairly linear against PSG/HST AHI, adjusted R2 = 0.47, p &lt; 0.0001, (y=10 + 0.82x). Withings AHI &lt; 15 (n=18) had a 90% positive predictive value for a PSG/HST AHI less than 15 (n=20). Ectosense data was less linear and more scattered, adjusted R2 = 0.15, p=0.01, (y=14 + 0.47x). Ectosense AHI &lt; 15 (n=12) had an 80% positive predictive value of a PSG/HST AHI less than 15 (n=15).

Conclusion

Home-based sensors provide longitudinal SDB data in a home setting and may adequately classify patients with mild sleep apnea, and may have utility for home-based management of UAS patients in the post-implantation period.

Support (If Any)

Inspire Medical Systems

The association between sleep disorders on employment and income among adults in the United States

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between sleep disorders, employment status, and income among US adults aged 18-64 years.

METHODS

The 2018-2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey medical conditions file was queried for adults aged 18-64 years with a diagnosis of a sleep disorder (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, code G47.x) and linked to the household dataset. Comparisons in rates of wage, supplemental, and social security income as well as mean wage income were made between those with and without sleep disorders. Multivariate analyses, adjusting for demographics and comorbidities, were conducted.

RESULTS

A sleep disorder was diagnosed in 4.4% ± 0.2% of the study population (approximately 8.8 ± 0.4 million adults aged 18-64 years in the United States; mean age 46.9 years, 55.8% female). Adults with sleep disorders were less likely to have wage income from employment (adjusted odds ratio 0.5, 95% confidence interval 0.4-0.6, P < .001) and more likely to have Supplemental Security (1.8, 1.4-2.4, P < .001) and Social Security income (2.0, 1.6-2.4, P < .001) compared with those without sleep disorders. Among wage-earning adults, those with sleep disorders had $2,496 less mean annual wage income compared with those without a sleep disorder ($20,445 vs $22,941, P = .007), adjusting for demographics and comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

There are significantly higher indirect costs associated with sleep disorders. This study specifically demonstrates lower employment rates, lower wages, and higher welfare income utilization among those with sleep disorders despite using a very conservative estimate of sleep disorder prevalence.

CITATION

Huyett P, Bhattacharyya N. The association between sleep disorders, employment, and income among adults in the United States. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(8):1967-1972.

Unique Molecular Signatures Are Associated with Aggressive Histology in Pediatric Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Background: Molecular testing (MT) enhances the diagnostic accuracy of thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy, reducing the need for diagnostic lobectomy in adult patients with indeterminate nodules (Bethesda class III/IV). However, little is known about genetic alterations in pediatric thyroid carcinoma (TC). Our aim was to analyze MT results of pediatric differentiated TC (DTC) cases to determine associations with histological and clinical features. Methods: A retrospective review identified all patients (aged <19 years) diagnosed with DTC from 2001 to 2017 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Histology was rereviewed to confirm diagnosis and identify tissue for MT using next-generation sequencing (ThyroSeq, version 3, TSv3). Correlation with histological and clinical features was analyzed using regression analysis. Results: Of 71 patients with MT results, 62 (87%) patients had papillary TC. All patients were alive at a median follow-up of 6 years (range 18 days to 18 years). Genetic alterations were identified in 65 (92%) patients. These alterations were grouped as BRAF-like point mutations or fusions (39, 55%), RAS-like mutations or fusions (21, 30%), or copy number alterations (5, 7%). On multiple regression analysis accounting for patient sex and tumor size in patients with papillary TC, increased tumor stage (β: 0.234, p < 0.001), multifocal disease (odds ratio [OR]: 3.60, p = 0.042), and lymph node metastases (OR: 6.13, p = 0.044) were associated with BRAF-like gene fusions. When considering individual mutations, ETV6/NTRK3 fusions were associated with increased tumor stage (β: 2.07, p = 0.023) and BRAF-like point mutations were associated with increased likelihood of surgery for recurrence over time (hazard ratio: 19.5, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Among our cohort of pediatric TC patients who underwent comprehensive MT, >90% had an identifiable genetic alteration. Aggressive features were primarily associated with BRAF-like gene fusions. Preoperative MT results may be useful in guiding the extent of the initial operation in pediatric patients (aged <19 years) with TC.

Early objective adherence to hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To assess early adherence to therapy with hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy.

METHODS

This is a prospective study of consecutive patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who underwent implantation of hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy within a single academic practice and attended a follow-up appointment after greater than 30 days of therapy use. Objective adherence data were extracted from an objective monitoring database and compared to patient characteristics.

RESULTS

The study population was 79 participants who were 29.1% female with a mean age of 58.7 ± 12.8 years old, body mass index of 28.9 ± 3.4 kg/m², and baseline apnea-hypopnea index of 33.8 ± 17.6 events/h. In the first 7 days after device activation, average use was 7.8 h/night, with 91.9% of nights with greater than 4 hours of therapy use and an average of 0.2 pauses in therapy per night. These figures remained stable after 30 days of use: 7.7 h/night, 91.0% of nights longer than 4 hours, and 0.3 pauses per night. Objective evidence of difficulty with acclimatization was associated with age less than 60 years (odds ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval 1.1-7.1, P = .03) and a history of prior upper airway surgery (3.9, 1.2-11.9, P = .015). Insomnia was present in 31 patients and was not associated with objective evidence of difficulty tolerating therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Early adherence to hypoglossal nerve stimulation is excellent (92.4% >4 hours on >70% of nights), suggesting that the acclimatization period is straightforward in most. Younger age and a history of prior upper airway surgery appear to be associated with an increased risk of difficulty with acclimatization.

CITATION

Huyett P. Early objective adherence to hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(2):631-636.

Implantation of the hypoglossal nerve stimulator via left sided, 2-incision approach

This is a case series of 5 patients who underwent implantation of the hypoglossal nerve stimulator for obstructive sleep apnea via a left-sided, two incision technique. This represents a significant modification of the original right-sided, three-incision technique. All five patients were successfully implanted with this technique variant with no adverse events or negative impact on device functionality, such as cardiac artifact.

Incremental health care utilization and expenditures for sleep disorders in the United States

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To determine the incremental increases in health care utilization and expenditures associated with sleep disorders.

METHODS

Adults with a diagnosis of a sleep disorder (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, code G47.x) within the medical conditions file of the 2018 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey medical conditions file were identified. This dataset was then linked to the consolidated expenditures file and comparisons in health care utilization and expenditures were made between those with and without sleep disorders. Multivariate analyses, adjusted for demographics and comorbidities, were conducted for these comparisons.

RESULTS

Overall, 5.6% ± 0.2% of the study population had been diagnosed with a sleep disorder, representing approximately 13.6 ± 0.6 million adults in the United States. Those with sleep disorders were more likely to be non-Hispanic, White, and female, with a higher proportion with public insurance and higher Charlson Comorbidity Scores. Adults with sleep disorders were found to have increased utilization of office visits (16.3 ± 0.8 vs 8.7 ± 0.3, P < .001), emergency room visits (0.52 ± 0.03 vs 0.37 ± 0.02, P < .001), and prescriptions (39.7 ± 1.2 vs 21.9 ± 0.4, P < .001) vs those without sleep disorders. The additional incremental health care expenses for those with sleep disorders were increased in all examined measures: total health care expense ($6,975 ± $800, P < .001), total office-based expenditures ($1,694 ± $277, P < .001), total prescription expenditures ($2,574 ± $364, P < .001), and total self-expenditures for prescriptions ($195 ± $32, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sleep disorders are associated with significantly higher rates of health care utilization and expenditures. By using the conservative prevalence estimate found in this study, the overall incremental health care costs of sleep disorders in the United States represents approximately $94.9 billion.

CITATION

Huyett P, Bhattacharyya N. Incremental health care utilization and expenditures for sleep disorders in the United States. J Clin Sleep Med. 2021;17(10):1981-1986.

Characteristics of the Dual Board-Certified Sleep Otolaryngology Workforce

OBJECTIVE

Sleep medicine is a multidisciplinary field that includes otolaryngology. After 2011, sleep medicine board eligibility required completion of a dedicated sleep medicine fellowship. The objective of our study is to describe the characteristics and geographic distribution of the dual board-certified sleep otolaryngology workforce and to assess the impact of the 2011 change.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis of sleep-certified otolaryngologists registered with the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in 2019 was performed to characterize the sleep otolaryngology workforce. County and regional analysis of provider density was conducted by comparing provider characteristics with county-level data from the United States Census Bureau.

RESULTS

There were 275 active dual board-certified sleep otolaryngologists, or approximately 1 for every 1.12 million Americans. 77.8% were in private practice and 2.9% had American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology membership. Eighty-eight percent were male, with females more likely than males to be in an academic setting (36.4% for females compared to 20.2% for males; P = .045). The South Atlantic and South Central regions had the highest number of sleep board-certified otolaryngologists per capita. Before 2011, an average of 75.7 otolaryngologists took the sleep board exam per 2-year cycle, compared to 14.3 otolaryngologists after 2011 (P = .029).

CONCLUSION

There are few dual board-certified sleep otolaryngologists across the country, which may affect care for patients with sleep-disordered breathing. Increased resident exposure and otolaryngology training in sleep medicine can strengthen the otolaryngology contribution to the multidisciplinary care of these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV Laryngoscope, 2021.

Sleep Study Measures on Postoperative Night 1 Following Implantation of the Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator

OBJECTIVE

To examine the changes in measures of sleep apnea severity and hypoxemia on the first postoperative night following implantation of the hypoglossal nerve stimulator.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a single-arm prospective cohort study.

SETTING

A single academic sleep surgical practice.

METHODS

Subjects with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea underwent implantation of the hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HGNS) and were discharged to home the same day as surgery. A single-night WatchPAT study was performed on the night immediately following surgery (PON 1) and was compared to baseline sleep testing.

RESULTS

Twenty subjects who were an average of 58.6 ± 2.5 years old, were 25% female, and had a mean body mass index of 28.1 ± 0.9 kg/m² completed the study. Mean O₂ nadir at baseline was 79.6% ± 1.1% compared to 82.7% ± 0.9% (P = .013) on PON 1. One patient demonstrated a >10% worsening in O₂ nadir. Only 2 additional patients demonstrated a worsening in O₂ nadir on PON 1, each by only 1 percentage point. Neither mean time spent below SpO₂ 88% nor oxygen desaturation index (ODI) worsened postoperatively (mean time spent below oxygen saturation of 88%, 27.8 ± 7.85 vs 11.2 ± 5.2, P = .03; mean ODI, 29.6 ± 5.2/h vs 21.0 ± 5.4/h, P = .10). Mean obstructive apnea hypopnea index (AHI) was no worse (40.6 ± 4.7/h to 28.7 ± 4.2/h, P = .02), with only 2 patients experiencing an obstructive AHI >20% more severe than baseline. Only 1 patient demonstrated a clinically meaningful increase in central AHI on PON 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, AHI and measures of nocturnal hypoxemia are stable, if not improved, on PON 1 following HGNS implantation. These findings support the safety of same-day discharge following implantation of the hypoglossal nerve stimulator.

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy and Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Outcomes: A Multicenter Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To determine the association between findings of blinded reviews of preoperative drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) and outcomes of hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study.

METHODS

A retrospective, multicenter cohort study of 343 adults who underwent treatment of OSA with HNS from 10 academic medical centers was performed. Preoperative DISE videos were scored by four blinded reviewers using the VOTE Classification and evaluation of a possible primary structure contributing to airway obstruction. Consensus DISE findings were examined for an association with surgical outcomes based on therapy titration polysomnogram (tPSG). Treatment response was defined by a decrease of ≥50% in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) to <15 events/hour.

RESULTS

Study participants (76% male, 60.4 ± 11.0 years old) had a body mass index of 29.2 ± 3.6 kg/m² . AHI decreased (35.6 ± 15.2 to 11.0 ± 14.1 events/hour; P < .001) on the tPSG, with a 72.6% response rate. Complete palate obstruction (vs. none) was associated with the greatest difference in AHI improvement (-26.8 ± 14.9 vs. -19.2 ± 12.8, P = .02). Complete (vs. partial/none) tongue-related obstruction was associated with increased odds of treatment response (78% vs. 68%, P = .043). Complete (vs. partial/none) oropharyngeal lateral wall-related obstruction was associated with lower odds of surgical response (58% vs. 74%, P = .042).

CONCLUSIONS

The DISE finding of primary tongue contribution to airway obstruction was associated with better outcomes, whereas the opposite was true for the oropharyngeal lateral walls. This study suggests that the role for DISE in counseling candidates for HNS extends beyond solely for excluding complete concentric collapse related to the velum.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 131:1676-1682, 2021.

Use of overnight pulse oximetry and a type 3 sleep study to titrate hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy

NONE

This is a case series of 3 patients with moderate-severe OSA who were PAP-intolerant and underwent implantation of the hypoglossal nerve stimulator. All patients recorded baseline overnight pulse oximetry without the hypoglossal nerve stimulator and at least 1 night at each hypoglossal nerve stimulator setting as they up-titrated the device at home. Because of the impact of the novel coronavirus on sleep laboratories, all patients proceeded directly to type 3 sleep studies performed at a single setting determined by a combination of self-reported improvement and pulse oximetry data.

Prevalence of Sleep Disorders and Association With Mortality: Results From the NHANES 2009-2010

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of sleep disorders in the United States and the association between sleep disorders and all-cause mortality.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis of the 2009 to 2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and 2015 National Death Index (NDI) was performed. The 2009 to 2010 NHANES national household survey for adults ≥ 18 years was examined for the prevalence of sleep disorders as well as standard demographics and the presence of comorbidities (coronary artery disease [CAD], stroke, and emphysema). This dataset was linked to the 2015 NDI to associate the presence of sleep disorders with 5-year all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The study sample had a mean age of 46.1 years old, was 48.3% male, and had an average body mass index (BMI) of 28.7 (28.4-28.9). 7.1% (6.5%-7.7%) of adults reported being diagnosed with a sleep disorder, which represents an estimated 15.9 million (13.2-18.6) patients. The estimated mortality rate for those having a sleep disorder was 9.3% (7.2%-11.9%) compared to 5.2% (4.5%-5.9%) without a sleep disorder (odds ratio 1.89, P = <.001). After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, CAD, stroke, and emphysema, having a sleep disorder remained a significant predictor of increased mortality (hazard ratio, 1.5 [1.02-2.18], P = .042).

CONCLUSION

This study reports a high prevalence of self-reported but physician-diagnosed sleep disorders; however, this likely represents an underestimate. Given the association with all-cause mortality, there is a need for increased recognition of undiagnosed sleep disorders within the United States.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2b Laryngoscope, 131:686-689, 2021.

Endovascular Embolization in the Treatment of Epistaxis

OBJECTIVE

The cost-effectiveness of endovascular embolization (EE) for intractable epistaxis has been questioned, especially as endoscopic surgical techniques have become standard of care at many institutions. Our objectives were to review the safety profile and effectiveness of EE for epistaxis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Tertiary care hospital.

SUBJECTS

There were 54 patients and 64 unique encounters. Patients were 66.7% male, with a mean age of 64.5 years. Bleeding disorders were present in 18.8%, hypertension was present in 71.7%, and 61.1% were on anticoagulant/platelet drugs.

METHODS

Charts of patients undergoing EE for epistaxis between 2005 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The immediate bleeding control rate was 92.6%. Three patients died within 1 week of EE and were excluded from further analysis. Overall, 64.7% of the remaining patients had no further episodes of epistaxis. Thirteen patients (25.4%) rebled within 1 week, 11 of whom required repeat EE or operative control. Five patients (9.8%) rebled more than 1 week following the procedure with 4 requiring repeat EE or operative control. The major complication rate was 7.4% and included transient stroke, diplopia, facial skin necrosis, and extraperitoneal hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

While the immediate success rate of EE for epistaxis was comparable to the literature, the overall short- and long-term rebleed rate was high in this selected population. The results suggest that patients who are referred for EE represent a high-risk group with increased risk of repeat hemorrhage and morbidity. Patients who undergo EE for epistaxis should be carefully monitored for complications, including repeat hemorrhage.

Accuracy of chest X-Ray measurements of pediatric esophageal coins

OBJECTIVE

To determine the accuracy of chest x-ray measurements in children using ingested radiopaque foreign bodies of known size.

METHODS

A database of foreign body ingestions at a tertiary care children's hospital was queried from 2013 to 2016 for children who had ingested a US coin, had a pre-operative chest x-ray and documentation of coin type at the time of endoscopic removal. Four blinded research subjects measured the coin diameter on chest x-ray using iSite PACS software and based on the measurement, predicted the coin type. Measurements were compared to the known coin diameters published by the US Mint.

RESULTS

A total of 51 patients with sixteen esophageal quarters (diameter 24.26 mm), fourteen nickels (21.21 mm), fourteen pennies (19.05 mm) and seven dimes (17.91 mm) were included in the study. The four subjects had a mean accuracy of 60.3% (range 49.0%-72.5%) in predicting the correct coin type. Across all raters, there was poor agreement for pennies (kappa = 0.161) and dimes (kappa = 0.131), fair agreement for nickels (kappa = 0.259), good agreement for quarters (kappa = 0.687), and fair agreement overall (kappa = 0.371). The study measurements overestimated the coin size in 203 of the 204 measurements by a mean of 1.84 mm (range -0.31-3.85 mm). The mean size discrepancy was larger (2.40 vs. 1.30 mm, p < 0.001) and accuracy of coin type identification was worse (44.6% vs. 74.1%, p = 0.001) in children <4 years old.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of esophageal coins on chest x-ray is relatively inaccurate and overestimates the size in the majority of cases. Clinicians should use caution when performing fine measurements on chest x-rays, especially in children younger than 4 years old.

Quality Assessment of the Clinical Practice Guideline for Tympanostomy Tubes in Children

Objectives

To determine the association between the introduction of statements 6 and 7 in the 2013 clinical practice guideline (CPG) for tympanostomy tubes in children and the identification of preoperative middle ear fluid (acute otitis media / otitis media with effusion [AOM/OME]) in children undergoing bilateral myringotomy and tube (BMT) placement.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care children’s medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Patients who underwent BMT for recurrent AOM were retrospectively reviewed. We examined 240 patients before (BG; 2012) and 240 patients after (AG; 2014) the introduction of the CPG.

Results

The baseline characteristics of the 2 groups were comparable. The total annual number of BMT placements performed at our institution decreased from 3957 (BG) to 3083 (AG). There was no significant increase in the rate of preoperative AOM/OME identification following CPG introduction (BG 78.3% vs AG 83.3%, P = .164). The rate of identification of AOM/OME in the operating room (OR) increased from 54.2% (BG) to 71.3% (AG, P < .001). The rate of identification of AOM/OME both in the clinic and in the OR increased from 55.1% (BG) to 71.3% (AG, P < .001). Cases with concordant clinic and OR AOM/OME occurred among younger children ( P = .045), those with fewer episodes of AOM ( P = .043), and those with shorter time between the clinic and OR dates ( P = .008).

Conclusions

Following the introduction of the CPG, there was no change in the rate of identification of AOM/OME prior to recommending BMT placement in children with recurrent AOM. The lack of improved compliance with statements 6 and 7 may be related to multiple clinician- and patient-derived factors.

Risk of Postoperative Complications in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea following Skull Base Surgery

Objectives

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) presents several challenges in skull base surgery, including increased intracranial pressure, worsened OSA with nasal packing, and avoidance of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy postoperatively. The objective of this study was to examine the risk of postoperative complications in a skull base population with OSA in which PAP therapy is withheld.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Medical records of 414 adult patients undergoing anterior skull base procedures between January 1, 2014, and January 7, 2017, were retrospectively reviewed. Revision surgeries, skull base infections, sinus surgery, and orbital cases were excluded.

Results

Fifty-four (13.0%) patients with a diagnosis of OSA were identified. While the known patients with OSA were more likely to require postoperative supplemental oxygen (odds ratio [OR], 4.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.38-7.75; P < .001), there was no increased risk of serious respiratory events or cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF). To address the likely underdiagnosis of OSA in this cohort, subgroup analyses were performed of patients at high risk for OSA (body mass index >30 kg/m2 and hypertension) and demonstrated an increased risk of serious respiratory events (OR, 4.41; 95% CI, 1.24-15.7; P = .034) and CSF leak (13.6% vs 4.7%; P = .018).

Conclusions

Skull base patients with known OSA can be successfully managed with diligent care in the perioperative period when PAP therapy is withheld. However, OSA is likely underdiagnosed in the skull base population, and patients at high risk for undiagnosed OSA may be at the greatest risk for respiratory complications and CSF leak. Increased presurgical awareness and implementation of a perioperative management algorithm is needed.

Perineural Invasion in Parotid Gland Malignancies

Objectives To investigate the clinical predictors and survival implications of perineural invasion (PNI) in parotid gland malignancies. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Tertiary care medical center. Subjects and Methods Patients with parotid gland malignancies treated surgically from 2000 to 2015 were retrospectively identified in the Head and Neck Cancer Registry at a single institution. Data points were extracted from the medical record and original pathology reports. Results In total, 186 patients with parotid gland malignancies were identified with a mean follow-up of 5.2 years. Salivary duct carcinoma (45), mucoepidermoid carcinoma (44), and acinic cell carcinoma (26) were the most common histologic types. A total of 46.2% of tumors were found to have PNI. At the time of presentation, facial nerve paresis (odds ratio [OR], 64.7; P < .001) and facial pain (OR, 3.7; P = .002) but not facial paresthesia or anesthesia (OR, 2.8, P = .085) were predictive of PNI. Malignancies with PNI were significantly more likely to be of advanced T and N classification, be high-risk pathologic types, and have positive margins and angiolymphatic invasion. PNI positivity was associated with worse overall (hazard ratio, 2.62; P = .001) and disease-free survival (4.18; P < .001) on univariate Cox regression analysis. However, when controlling for other negative prognosticators, age, and adjuvant therapy, PNI did not have a statistically significant effect on disease-free or overall survival. Conclusions PNI is strongly correlated with more aggressive parotid gland malignancies but is not an independent predictor of worse survival. Facial paresis and pain were predictive of PNI positivity, and facial paresis correlated with worse overall and disease-free survival.

Second tympanostomy tube placement in children with recurrent acute otitis media

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To determine the rate and predictors of electing for a second bilateral myringotomy and tympanostomy tube placement (BMT) in children with recurrent acute otitis media (RAOM).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

METHODS

Charts of 600 children who underwent BMT for RAOM between 2012 and 2014 were reviewed.

RESULTS

The overall rate of a second BMT was 15.2% (91/600) and occurred a median of 1.58 years after the initial BMT. The most common indication was continued RAOM with extruded tubes. There was a higher rate of second BMT in patients of younger age (1.06 vs. 1.32 years old, P < .001) and those with a positive family history of RAOM/BMT in a first-degree relative (odds ratio [OR]: 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-2.73, P = .041). Identification of middle ear fluid intraoperatively (OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.22-3.26, P = .005) but not preoperatively (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 0.98-3.57, P = .051) was associated with higher rates of second BMT. Children with bilateral intraoperative fluid (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.42-3.58, P < .001) or fluid both preoperatively and intraoperatively (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.40-3.61, P = .001) had greater higher risk of requiring second BMT. In this series, the finding of blocked tubes or tube otorrhea at the first postoperative visit were not predictive of an increased risk of second BMT.

CONCLUSIONS

Children who underwent BMT for RAOM were more likely to undergo second BMT if they were of younger age, had a family history of RAOM/BMT, or were found to have middle ear fluid intraoperatively. The overall second BMT rate for children with RAOM is lower than in studies examining all BMT indications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1476-1479, 2018.

The Relationship of Paranasal Sinus Opacification to Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia in the Neurologic Intensive Care Unit Patient

BACKGROUND

The association between intensive care unit (ICU) sinusitis and the development of lower airway infections remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between the development of radiographic sinus opacification and pneumonia in the neurologic ICU setting.

METHODS

A retrospective review of head computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging of 612 patients admitted to the neurocritical care unit at a tertiary care center from April 2013 through April 2014 was performed. Paranasal sinus opacification was measured using Lund-Mackay scores (LMS). A diagnosis of pneumonia was determined by the ICU team from radiographic, laboratory, and pulmonary data. Exclusion criteria included a history of endonasal surgery, sinonasal malignancy, facial fractures, ICU admission less than 3 days, or inadequate imaging.

RESULTS

Worsening sinus opacification occurred in 42.6% of patients and pneumonia in 18.5% of patients during ICU admission. Of the patients who developed pneumonia, 71.7% also developed worsening sinus opacification (P < .001). In 80.2% of cases, the sinus opacification developed prior to the diagnosis of pneumonia. The mean highest LMS for patients who developed pneumonia was 4.24 compared to 1.99 in patients who did not develop pneumonia (P < .001). Sinus air-fluid levels or complete sinus opacification occurred in a larger proportion of patients who developed pneumonia (46.9% vs 19.4%, P < .001). Mortality rates for patients with no pneumonia or sinusitis, pneumonia only, sinusitis only, and sinusitis with pneumonia were 7.6%, 15.6%, 18.3%, and 25.9%, respectively (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study finds a strong relationship between worsening sinus opacification in the neurologic ICU patient to the development of hospital-acquired pneumonia and increased mortality.

A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Perineural invasion (PNI) is found in approximately 40% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). Despite multimodal treatment with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, locoregional recurrences and distant metastases occur at higher rates, and overall survival is decreased by 40% compared to HNSCC without PNI. In vitro studies of the pathways involved in HNSCC PNI have historically been challenging given the lack of a consistent, reproducible assay. Described here is the adaptation of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) assay for the examination of PNI in HNSCC. In this model, DRG are harvested from the spinal column of a sacrificed nude mouse and placed within a semisolid matrix. Over the subsequent days, neurites are generated and grow in a radial pattern from the cell bodies of the DRG. HNSCC cell lines are then placed peripherally around the matrix and invade preferentially along the neurites toward the DRG. This method allows for rapid evaluation of multiple treatment conditions, with very high assay success rates and reproducibility.

Radiographic Mastoid and Middle Ear Effusions in Intensive Care Unit Subjects

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted to determine the incidence of and risk factors associated with the development of radiographic mastoid and middle ear effusions (ME/MEE) in ICU patients.

METHODS

Head computed tomography or magnetic resonance images of 300 subjects admitted to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center neurologic ICU from April 2013 through April 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Images were reviewed for absent, partial, or complete opacification of the mastoid air cells and middle ear space. Exclusion criteria were temporal bone or facial fractures, transmastoid surgery, prior sinus or skull base surgery, history of sinonasal malignancy, ICU admission < 3 days or inadequate imaging.

RESULTS

At the time of admission, 3.7% of subjects had radiographic evidence of ME/MEE; 10.3% (n = 31) of subjects subsequently developed new or worsening ME/MEE during their ICU stay. ME/MEE was a late finding and was found to be most prevalent in subjects with a prolonged stay (P < .001). Variables associated with ME/MEE included younger age, the use of antibiotics, and development of radiographic sinus opacification. The proportion of subjects with ME/MEE was significantly higher in the presence of an endotracheal tube (22.7% vs 0.6%, P < .001) or a nasogastric tube (21.4% vs 0.6%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Radiographic ME/MEE was identified in 10.3% of ICU subjects and should be considered especially in patients with prolonged stay, presence of an endotracheal tube or nasogastric tube, and concomitant sinusitis. ME/MEE is a potential source of fever and sensory impairment that may contribute to delirium and perceived depressed consciousness in ICU patients.

Sinus opacification in the intensive care unit patient

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

The significance of sinus opacification in intensive care unit (ICU) patients remains uncertain. Our objectives were to determine the baseline incidence and risk factors associated with the development of radiographic sinus abnormalities in the ICU population.

METHODS

A retrospective study of head computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging from April 2013 through April 2014 of 612 neurologic ICU patients at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was performed. Images were scored by the Lund-Mackay system (LMS). Exclusion criteria included prior sinus or skull base surgery, history of sinonasal malignancy, facial fractures, ICU admission less than 3 days, or inadequate imaging.

RESULTS

At the time of admission, 40.7% of patients had a LMS greater than zero (mean 2.2). Worsening sinus opacification occurred in 42.6% of patients (mean highest LMS 4.6) during ICU admission. There was a peak between days 8 and 10, during which 65% of scans exhibited worsening opacification compared to baseline. On multivariate analysis, risk factors associated with increased sinus opacification (higher LMS) included the presence of an endotracheal tube (odds ration [OR] 3.28, P < .001) or nasogastric tube (OR 3.34, P < .001) and increased length of stay (OR 2.50, P < .001). Age greater than 60 was found to be protective for the development of worsening sinus opacification (OR 0.57, P = .007).

CONCLUSION

Using serial imaging and comparison control groups, this study finds that there is a high baseline incidence of sinus opacification in the ICU population. Prolonged length of stay, younger age, and presence of nasogastric or endotracheal tubes all corresponded to worsening LMS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 126:2433-2438, 2016.

Utility of Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy in the Evaluation of Pediatric Head and Neck Masses

Objectives

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) has a well-established role in the evaluation of an adult head and neck mass (HNM) but remains underused in children. The objectives of this study were to assess the diagnostic accuracy, safety profile, use of anesthesia, and influence on surgical decision making of FNAB of HNM in the pediatric population.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care children’s hospital.

Subjects and Methods

In total, 257 consecutive patients with HNM who underwent 338 FNABs from July 2007 to July 2014 were reviewed. Patients ranged in age from 0 to 21 years (mean, 9.3 years); lesions ranged in size from 0.3 to 12.5 cm (mean, 2.4cm). Fine-needle aspiration biopsies were performed in the interventional radiology suite, operating room, clinic, or ward.

Results

The most common patient final diagnoses included reactive lymphadenopathy (n = 99, 38.5%), benign thyroid colloid nodule (n = 31, 12.1%), malignancies (n = 21, 8.2%), and atypical mycobacterial infection (n = 15, 5.8%). On surgical histopathologic and clinical follow-up, overall sensitivity of FNAB was 94.6% and specificity was 97.7%. The complication rate was 2.1%, and general anesthesia or sedation was used for 73% of FNAB. Surgery occurred only 9 times following the 191 patients with negative FNAB results, indicating that 95.3% of unnecessary surgeries were avoided with the assistance of the FNAB result.

Conclusions

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is an accurate and safe diagnostic tool for guiding management of persistent lymphadenopathy, thyroid nodules, and other HNM in pediatric patients. Negative FNABs can often obviate the need for surgical intervention.

Prominent role of IFN-γ in patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease

BACKGROUND

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is distinguished from aspirin-tolerant asthma/chronic sinusitis in large part by an exuberant infiltration of eosinophils that are characterized by their overexpression of metabolic pathways that drive the constitutive and aspirin-induced secretion of cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs).

OBJECTIVE

We defined the inflammatory milieu that in part drives CysLT overproduction and, in particular, the role of IFN-γ in the differentiation of eosinophils.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR was performed for TH1 and TH2 signature cytokines on tissue from control subjects, patients with chronic hyperplastic eosinophilic sinusitis, and patients with AERD, and their cellular source was determined. The influence of IFN-γ on maturation, differentiation, and functionality of eosinophils derived from hematopoietic stem cells was determined.

RESULTS

Gene expression analysis revealed that tissue from both aspirin-tolerant subjects and patients with AERD display a TH2 cytokine signature; however, AERD was distinguished from chronic hyperplastic eosinophilic sinusitis by the prominent expression of IFN-γ. Intracellular and immunohistochemical cytokine staining revealed that the major sources of these cytokines were the eosinophils themselves. IFN-γ promoted the maturation of eosinophil progenitors, as measured by increased mRNA and surface expression of CCR3 and sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin 8 (Siglec-8). Additionally, IFN-γ increased the expression of genes involved in leukotriene synthesis that led to increased secretion of CysLTs. IFN-γ-matured eosinophil progenitors were also primed, as demonstrated by their enhanced degranulation.

CONCLUSIONS

High IFN-γ levels distinguish AERD from aspirin-tolerant asthma and underlie the robust constitutive and aspirin-induced secretion of CysLTs that characterize this disorder.

A unique presentation of Epstein-Barr virus-associated Castleman's disease

Castleman's disease (CD) is a rare, benign lymphoproliferative disorder. The association of human herpes virus 8 (HHV8) and human immunodeficiency virus infections with CD is well established however the role of Epstein-Barr Virus in CD is less well understood. We present a unique case of Castleman's disease in a patient with concomitant EBV infection, which mimicked the clinical presentation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) versus lymphoma. After a delayed diagnosis, the patient underwent a left superficial parotidectomy and neck dissection and has had no recurrence of disease.

Evidence for distinct histologic profile of nasal polyps with and without eosinophilia

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate the histology, RNA, and protein signatures of nasal polyps (NPs) in order to demonstrate specific subtypes of disease and differentiate "idiopathic" NPs based on tissue eosinophilia.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective laboratory-based study.

METHODS

NP tissue was obtained from patients referred to the University of Virginia Health System for sinus surgery. Histology analyses included hematoxylin-eosin, Gomori's trichrome, toluidine blue, and chloroacetate staining. RNA and protein were extracted from tissue and cytokine transcript or protein concentrations determined.

RESULTS

Idiopathic NPs can be divided into distinct subsets characterized by absence (NE) and presence (E) of prominent eosinophilia. The validity of this distinction is supported by the demonstration that NE polyps are further distinguished by glandular hypertrophy, dense collagen deposition, and mononuclear cellular infiltrate. In contrast, E-NP display edema, rare glandularity, and minimal collagen deposition except within the basement membrane. Total mast cell numbers were reduced in E-NP, whereas connective tissue mast cells were increased in NE-NP. Consistent with the distinctive pattern of increased fibrosis, NE-NP displayed increased transforming growth factor-β and vascular endothelial growth factor transcripts. Similarly, NE-NPs had higher concentrations of transforming growth factor-β, fibroblast growth factor-β, and platelet-derived growth factor protein.

CONCLUSIONS

Idiopathic NPs can be distinguished by NE and E and are supported by the observations that these display distinct histologic, gene, and protein expression patterns. The findings suggest that as unique diseases, idiopathic NPs will require distinct therapeutic interventions.

Microarray analysis of distinct gene transcription profiles in non-eosinophilic chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

Recent literature has indicated the feasibility of microarray analysis in the characterization of chronic sinusitis. We hypothesized that previously unexplored inflammatory mechanisms would be involved in the pathophysiology of noneosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (NE-CRSwNP) and that this technology could be used to identify the gene expression of these novel and previously known mediators.

METHODS

Patients with CRSwNP failing medical therapy were prospectively enrolled and NP tissue was removed at time of surgery. NE-CRSwNP was diagnosed based on clinical parameters including absence of allergic disease and confirmed with histopathology showing lack of eosinophilic infiltration. Messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts extracted from study and control patients were then subjected to microarray analysis using Affymatrix based chips. Validation of findings was then confirmed via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS

Microarray analysis revealed activation of pathways involved in antigen presentation, cellular movement, hematopoiesis, carcinogenesis, apoptosis, and cell signaling. Previously unexplored genes of interest were identified and their differential regulation was validated via qRT-PCR. Our data showed up-regulation of innate inflammation genes (IL-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1), hypoxia-induced inflammation 1alpha, and fibrosis (tenascin) and lack of up-regulation of genes associated with allergic, eosinophilic inflammation (IL-4 and IL-13). Additionally, the genes for CXCL1 and autocrine motility factor receptor were novelly identified to be up-regulated.

CONCLUSION

This study explores the utility of gene microarray technology in identifying unexplored targets of immune dysregulation in NE-CRSwNP. Furthermore, the data characterize the immunologic profile of NE-CRSwNP as it differs from other forms of CRSwNP, in particular, those known to be associated with eosinophilic inflammation.

Differential interleukin-10 production stratified by -571 promoter polymorphism in purified human immune cells

A C-to-A base substitution has been identified at bp -571 in the IL-10 promoter and has been linked to numerous diseases. To investigate the role of this polymorphism on IL-10 production, T cells, B cells and monocytes were enriched from peripheral blood from subjects either homozygous for the C or A allele. Treatment of monocytes and B cells with lipopolysaccharide from individuals homozygous for the C allele resulted in higher levels of IL-10 production as compared to monocytes from individuals homozygous for the A allele. Though not statistically significant, when B cells were treated with anti-IgM or T cells with concanavalin A higher levels of IL-10 were produced from individuals homozygous for the A allele. Changes in IL-10 protein production were paralleled by similar changes in IL-10 mRNA production. These results demonstrate that changes in IL-10 production observed due to the -571 genotype depend on both cell type and stimulus.