Results Of Molecular Genetic Testing Research Articles

Detection of <i>M. tuberculosis</i> Using Cartridge-Based Technology in Patients with Negative Sputum Microscopy Results in a Regional Laboratory

The objective: to evaluate results of M. tuberculosis detection and testing drug susceptibility to rifampicin using molecular genetic methods in tuberculosis patients with a negative sputum smear microscopy result.Subjects and Methods. Pulmonary tuberculosis patients registered in Arkhangelsk Region from 2016 to 2020 were enrolled in the study; those patients were notified as new cases and relapses with a negative sputum smear microscopy result before treatment and had results of molecular genetic testing (MGT) (Xpert MTB/RIF MTB/RIF) and BACTEC MGIT 960 available.Results. 479 people (40%) were registered as pulmonary tuberculosis cases with a negative sputum smear microscopy result. MGT was performed in 327 (68%) patients. A positive result of MGT was received in 120 (37%) patients, a positive result of BACTEC MGIT 960 was received in 165 (50%) people. Concordance of results was observed in 70% of cases. In 136 (41%) people, both tests did not detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis, in 95 (29%) both tests showed a positive result. Discrepancies between the results of two tests were observed in 30% of cases. In 71 (22%) cases, culture growth was observed in BACTEC MGIT 960 with negative results of MGT. In 8% of cases, DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was detected, but there was no culture growth on the nutrient medium. 43/120 (36%) cases of resistance to rifampicin were detected. The median time from sputum collection to initiation of MDR-TB treatment based on sputum MGT results made 18 (IQR 10–29) days. Molecular genetic testing makes it possible to promptly detect the majority of TB patients with a negative sputum smear result, and reduce the time for drug susceptibility testing, which allows this testing to be used as the first test when examining for pulmonary TB.

Congenital Stationary Night Blindness Structure, Function and Genotype–Phenotype Correlations in a Cohort of 122 Patients

To examine the molecular causes of Schubert-Bornschein (S-B) congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB), clinically characterize in detail, and assess genotype-phenotype correlations for retinal function and structure. Retrospective, longitudinal, single center case series. 122 patients with S-B CSNB attending Moorfields Eye Hospital, United Kingdom. All case notes, results of molecular genetic testing, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were reviewed. Molecular genetics, presenting complaints, rates of nystagmus, nyctalopia, photophobia, strabismus, color vision defects and spherical error of refraction (SER). Retinal thickness, outer nuclear layer thickness (ONL) and ganglion cell layer + inner plexiform layer (GCL+IPL) thickness from OCT imaging. X-linked (CACNA1F and NYX) and autosomal recessive (TRPM1, GRM6, GPR179 and CABP4) genotypes were identified. The mean reported age of onset was 4.94 ± 8.99 years. Over the follow-up period, 95.9% of patients reported reduced visual acuity (VA), half had nystagmus and 64.7% reported nyctalopia. Incomplete CSNB (iCSNB) patients more frequently had nystagmus and photophobia. Nyctalopia was similar for iCSNB and complete CSNB (cCSNB). Color vision data was limited but more defects were found in iCSNB. None of these clinical differences met statistical significance. There was no significant difference between groups in VA, with a mean of 0.46 LogMAR, and remained stable over the course of follow-up. cCSNB patients, specifically those with NYX and TRPM1 variants, were more myopic. CACNA1F patients showed the largest refractive variability and the CABP4 patient was hyperopic. No significant differences were found in OCT structural analysis during the follow-up period. Retinal structure in CSNB is stationary and no specific genotype - structure correlates were identified. VA appears to be relatively stable, with rare instances of progression.

Features of Cell-Mediated Immunity in Children with Congenital Ichthyosis and Their Role in the Pathogenetic Management

Background. Congenital ichthyoses (CIs) are a heterogeneous clinical-etiological group of genodermatoses. Typical clinical symptoms of this disease, regardless of the form, are generalized erythroderma, peeling, itching, hyperkeratosis, severe structural and functional disorders of the epidermal barrier, other organs and systems. Patients have an extremely low quality of life due to changes in appearance, discomfort, constant disease symptoms. Thus far, there are no effective treatment methods for ichthyosis. That is why scientific search for new therapies is the topical issue in pediatrics and pediatric dermatology.Objective. The aim of the study is to examine the cell-mediated immunity state in patients with CI via assessment of the pattern of lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood. The research was conducted to study the content of the main and small lymphocyte subpopulations in 86 patients with established diagnosis of CI aged from 1 month to 18 years. The diagnosis was made according to the clinical data and the results of molecular genetic testing. Comparative analysis of blood immunological indicators in children with CI and in patients with other immunemediated chronic dermatoses: atopic dermatitis (AD; n = 68) and psoriasis vulgaris (n = 55).Methods. The level of T lymphocytes, T helpers (Th), cytotoxic T lymphocytes (Tc), B lymphocytes, NK cells, Treg-cells (Treg), activated T helpers (Thact), Th17 lymphocytes in peripheral blood was evaluated via flow cytometry using monoclonal antibodies. Statistical analysis was performed via Statistica 10.0. Differences between the groups were assessed via Mann-Whitney non-parametric test, differences were considered significant at p < 0.05.Results. A significant increase of activated T-helpers level in peripheral blood was revealed in patients with CI and psoriasis compared to children with AD (p < 0.001), as well as an increased levels of B-lymphocytes and Treg in children with CI (p < 0.05).Conclusion. Children with CI have shown some features of cell-mediated immunity such as: pathological activation of Th lymphocytes, impaired terminal differentiation of naive CD4+ cells to Thact, Treg, Th17 lymphocytes and their proliferation. Comparative analysis of mentioned immunological indicators in children with CI, psoriasis and AD has shown comparable results of increased Thact lymphocytes levels in patients in CI and psoriasis groups. This results open up potential of using immunobiological drugs of psoriasis target therapy within the new management strategy for children with CI.

Longitudinal structure-function analysis of molecularly-confirmed CYP4V2 Bietti Crystalline Dystrophy

ObjectivesBietti Crystalline Dystrophy (BCD) is an autosomal recessive progressive retinal disease caused by mutations in CYP4V2. We have characterised the natural history including structural and functional measures to identify potential outcome metrics for future clinical trials.MethodsMolecularly-confirmed BCD patients with biallelic variants in CYP4V2 were retrospectively identified from Moorfields Eye Hospital (UK). Clinical details including results of molecular genetic testing, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans were extracted. From OCT scans, ellipsoid zone (EZ) measures, foveal thickness of the whole retina, outer retina and choroid were measured. Age-related changes of clinical parameters were assessed with linear mixed models.ResultsTwenty-eight BCD patients were identified, with median age at baseline of 37 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 30–49.5). Median follow-up was 7.7 years (IQR: 3.4–14.5). Most patients (41.7%) showed chorioretinal atrophy at baseline. All OCT parameters showed significant age-related loss (p < 0.05), with EZ measures and choroidal thickness displaying the most rapid degeneration (2.3–3.3% per year vs 0.6–1.5% per year). Median BCVA was 0.2 LogMAR (IQR: 0–0.5) at baseline and showed small age-related loss ( + 0.016 LogMAR per year, p = 0.0019). Patients exhibited substantial phenotypic variability.ConclusionsBCD presents between age 25 and 40, and slowly progresses to an advanced chorioretinal atrophy and vision loss by age 60. BCVA may be preserved until late, and is seemingly poorly representative of disease progression. OCT parameters capturing EZ and choroid changes may afford more suitable trial outcome measures.

PB0219 Utility of ACMG Classification to Support Interpretation of Molecular Genetic Test Results in Patients with FVII Deficiency

PB0219 Utility of ACMG Classification to Support Interpretation of Molecular Genetic Test Results in Patients with FVII Deficiency

Pathomorphological changes in the liver of broiler chickens caused by adeno-virus infection. Description of a spontaneous case in a private farm of the Lviv region

The article covers the results of pathomorphological studies of broiler chickens' liver (Cobb 500 cross) spontaneously damaged by Group I fowl adenovirus. Clinical signs of the disease in broiler chickens appeared on the 15th day of life and were manifested by a sharp decrease in water and feed consumption. The fowl was lethargic for several days, breathing hard, mostly sitting with its head down and eyes closed. During the breeding period, the mortality rate reached 13.2 %, accompanied by significant growth retardation. A peak of mortality was observed within 20–24 days of life. Antibody titers monitored by immunoenzymatic method using BioChek ELISA tests for infectious bursal disease (IBD), infectious bronchitis (IBV), and Newcastle disease (ND) virus were within normal post-vaccination levels. Pathological autopsy of broiler chickens revealed hepatomegaly, diffuse punctate and petechial hemorrhages under the Glisson's capsule, and military necrosis in the liver parenchyma. Hydropericarditis, pulmonary edema, renal dystrophy, and catarrhal enteritis were also detected in some cases. Liver fragments were selected for histological examination, fixed in a 10 % aqueous solution of neutral formalin, washed in water, and dehydrated in an ascending series of alcohols, followed by sealing and embedding in paraffin. Deparaffinized sections were stained with Mayer's hematoxylin and eosin. Optical examination of hepatocytes revealed large, round basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies, multifocal necrosis of hepatocytes, stasis, and fatty dystrophy. According to the molecular genetic test results of broiler chickens' liver fragments, the DNA of Group I fowl adenovirus, serotype FAdV-11, was isolated.

Hyaline juvenile fibromatosis: clinic, diagnostics, treatment

Hyaline juvenile fibromatosis is a rare genetic disease, which is associated with ANTXR2 gene defect. Almost all organs and systems of the body are affected in this pathology. There are clinical symptoms: joint contracture, hyperpigmentation, skin damage like nodules, which can have different sizes, locations and forms, throughout the body, fibromatosis of the gums, internal organs damages (splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, anomalies of the kidneys and other organs), osteoporosis, increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, mental underdevelopment. In this article we describe clinical case of 6-old patient witht hyaline juvenile fibromatosis. The diagnosis was made on the basis of the clinical picture, additional research methods and the results of molecular genetic testing. The patient underwent a number of surgical interventions, histological examination of the surgical material and symptomatic therapy.

Pediatric cystic nephroma: clinical and molecular genetic characteristics

Cystic nephroma (CN) is a rare renal tumor occurring in children which belongs to a group of neoplasms linked with the inherited DICER1 syndrome. Given the rarity of CNs, it is important to describe clinical, radiological, and molecular genetic characteristics of these tumors in children and adolescents as well as to analyze treatment outcomes. We present our experience in managing 8 patients with histologically verified CN who received treatment and consultations at the D. Rogachev NMRCPHOI over a period of 9 years (2012–2020). The study was approved by the Independent Ethics Committee and the Scientific Council of the D. Rogachev NMRCPHOI. The patients’ parents gave their consent to the use of their child’s data, including photographs, for research purposes and in publications. We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical presentation, radiological findings, the extent of treatment given to patients, treatment outcomes, and the results of molecular genetic testing. The study included patients aged between 8.6 and 197 months at diagnosis (the median age was 14.2 months). The analysis of initial complaints revealed that six patients (75%) had an increased abdominal girth and a palpable mass in the abdomen, one patient (12.5%) presented with arterial hypertension, and another patient (12.5%) had a mass detected by a routine abdominal ultrasound examination. On contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans, CNs appeared as multicystic masses with thin, contrast-enhancing septa; the CN volume ranged from 59.7 to 1293.1 cm3 (the median volume was 626.3 cm3 ). In all cases, the diagnosis of CN was verified histologically. Surgical treatment included nephrectomy (n = 6) or partial resection of the affected kidney (n = 2) with the removal of the tumor. Some patients (n = 5) included in our analysis received pre-operative chemotherapy at the discretion of their treating physicians. Molecular genetic testing was carried out for 7 children: 4 out of 7 patients (57.1%) were found to have somatic and germline mutations in the DICER1 gene. Carriers of pathogenic DICER1 variant were identified in the family of 1 patient. The median duration of follow-up was 17.6 months (range: 1.7 to 58.9 months). Currently, all patients are alive, no relapses have occurred. Cystic renal neoplasms detected by radiological investigations should be reviewed at the reference centers for pediatric oncological diseases and included CN in the differential diagnosis. Initial surgery is the first line of treatment for cystic nephroma. The final diagnosis is made on the basis of a histological examination of tumor tissue. All patients with confirmed CN should be referred for genetic counseling and molecular genetic testing for germline mutations in the DICER1 gene and should receive surveillance recommendations for the early detection of other metachronous DICER1-associated tumors.

Genetic testing is necessary for correct diagnosis and treatment in patients with isolated methylmalonic aciduria: a case report

BackgroundIsolated methylmalonic aciduria can be caused by pathogenic mutations in the gene for methylmalonyl-CoA mutase or in the genes encoding enzymes involved in the intracellular metabolism of cobalamin. Some of these mutations may be cobalamin responsive. The type of methylmalonic aciduria cannot always be assumed from clinical manifestation and the responsiveness to cobalamin has to be assessed for appropriate cobalamin administration, or to avoid unnecessary treatment. The cases presented herein highlight the importance of genetic testing in methylmalonic aciduria cases and the need for standardisation of the in vivo cobalamin-responsiveness assessment.Case presentationWe describe two patients who presented in the first week of life with rapid neurological deterioration caused by metabolic acidosis with severe hyperammonaemia requiring extracorporeal elimination in addition to protein restriction, energy support, carnitine, and vitamin B12 treatment. The severity of the clinical symptoms and high methylmalonic acid concentrations in the urine (>30,000 μmol/mmol of creatinine) without hyperhomocysteinaemia in both of our patients suggested isolated methylmalonic aciduria. Based on the neonatal manifestation and the high methylmalonic acid urine levels, we assumed the cobalamin non-responsive form. The in vivo test of responsiveness to cobalamin was performed in both patients. Patient 1 was evaluated as non-responsive; thus, intensive treatment with vitamin B12 was not used. Patient 2 was responsive to cobalamin, but the dose was decreased to 1 mg i.m. every two weeks with daily oral treatment due to non-compliance. Genetic tests revealed bi-allelic mutations in the genes MMAB and MMAA in Patient 1 and 2, respectively. Based on these results, we were able to start intensive treatment with hydroxocobalamin in both patients. After the treatment intensification, there was no acute crisis requiring hospitalisation in Patient 1, and the urine methylmalonic acid levels further decreased in Patient 2.ConclusionsDespite carrying out the in vivo test of responsiveness to cobalamin in both patients, only the results of molecular genetic tests led us to the correct diagnosis and enabled intensive treatment with hydroxocobalamin. The combination of the standardized in vivo test of cobalamin responsiveness and genetic testing is needed for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of isolated methylmalonic aciduria.

Real-World Patterns of Molecular Genetic Testing Among Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in US Community Oncology Settings

Introduction: Molecular genetic testing is essential to inform disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The standard treatment is induction chemotherapy followed by post-remission consolidation therapy including chemotherapy and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Since May 2017, targeted therapies such as midostaurin, ivosidenib, enasidenib, and gemtuzumab ozogamicin were introduced for the treatment of AML. The use of targeted therapies is driven in part by the results of molecular genetic testing. The aim of this study was to determine molecular genetic testing utilization among patients with AML before and after the introduction of targeted therapies in May 2017 within community oncology clinics.Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted using de-identified data from The US Oncology Network iKnowMed electronic health record database and chart review. The iKnowMed is an oncology-specific system that captures outpatient practice encounter history for patients under care, including (but not limited to) laboratory tests, diagnosis, therapy administration, line of therapy, staging, and performance status information. These structured data were supplemented by targeted chart review to capture unstructured data. All patients aged 18 years or older with newly diagnosed or relapsed/refractory AML who received treatment in The US Oncology Network from January 2014 through February 2019 were included in the study cohort. Patients enrolled in clinical trials were excluded. Patients were classified into two groups: those who received treatment prior to May 2017 and those who received it after May 2017. Molecular genetic testing included IDH1, IDH2, FLT3-ITD, FLT3-TDK and CD33 genes. We assessed the proportion of newly diagnosed or relapsed/refractory AML patients who received molecular genetic testing in the inpatient setting, outpatient setting and prior to treatment initiation before and after May 2017.Results: The study population consisted of 434 patients diagnosed with AML, of whom 313 had newly diagnosed and 121 had relapsed/refractory AML. The median age of the study cohort was 73 (interquartile range: 63.0, 79.0) years. Most of the study cohort were male (57.6%, n=250) and Caucasian (77.0%, n=334). Approximately 75% (235/313) of newly diagnosed patients (75.1%; 235/313) and 81.0% (98/121) of patients with relapsed/refractory AML had molecular genetic testing. The proportion of patients who had molecular genetic testing before and after May 2017 were similar for newly diagnosed AML patients (72.2% vs. 78.1%; p=0.2260) and relapsed/refractory AML patients (80.0% vs. 83.9%; p=0.6357). The proportion of newly diagnosed AML patients who received molecular genetic testing in the inpatient setting (18.5% vs. 23.8%; p=0.3403) and outpatient setting (49.4% vs. 51.0%; p=0.4223) did not change before and after May 2017. Likewise, among patients with relapsed/refractory AML, the proportion of molecular genetic testing in the inpatient setting (31.1% vs. 35.5%; p=0.8523) and outpatient setting (44.4% vs. 51.6%; p=0.7749) were similar before and after May 2017. In addition, the proportion of newly diagnosed AML patients (55.6% vs. 62.9%; p=0.3835) and relapsed/refractory AML patients (45.6% vs. 61.3%; p=0.3063) who received molecular genetic testing prior to AML treatment initiation did not change before and after May 2017. Time from test order date to test result availability was not significantly different before [mean (SD) =9.3 days (16.8)] and after May 2017 [mean (SD)=9.0 days (9.9)].Conclusion: Introduction of targeted therapies for AML did not increase molecular genetic testing rates nor improve the turnaround time for test result availability in newly diagnosed and relapsed refractory AML patients by February 2019. Two out of 5 patients did not have molecular genetic testing performed prior to initiation of AML therapy after May 2017 when targeted therapies became available. Patients age, comorbidities and drug access issues may have contributed to under-utilization of molecular genetic testing. Further research is needed to identify barriers to molecular genetic testing in patients with AML. DisclosuresSura: McKesson Life Sciences: Current Employment. Annavarapu: McKesson Life Sciences: Current Employment. Kwong: Daiichi Sankyo, Inc: Current Employment. Fliss: Daiichi Sankyo, Inc: Current Employment.

Potts Shunt in Children With Familial Primary Pulmonary Hypertension: A Case Report and Brief Literature Review

Introduction: The primary concern about Familial Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (FPAH) is the development of right heart failure, which ultimately leads to sudden death. Despite recent advances in pharmacological therapy, the mortality rate in children is still high, emphasizing the importance of novel treatments. Moreover, there is still no definitive treatment for children with severe pulmonary hypertension. The consequences of right heart failure led to the proposal of a surgical approach, the Potts shunt, to decompress the right ventricle, providing shunting of deoxygenated blood to lower extremities and improving overall cardiac output. This surgical technique creates an anastomosis between the left pulmonary artery and the descending aorta, providing a palliative treatment to off-load the right ventricle. Case Presentation: We report an 11-year-old girl with familial pulmonary arterial hypertension and right ventricular failure who benefited from a Potts shunt with good mid-term results. The patient was diagnosed at the age of 5 when she had a history of fainting and persistent syncope. The patient was under medical treatment therapy with bosentan, sildenafil, acetylsalicylic acid, and warfarin for six years. The results of molecular genetic testing, which was confirmed with direct sequencing of the Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptor Type 2 (BMPR2) gene, revealed a heterozygous pathogenic mutation. Since she was diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), she lost her grandmother, an aunt, and father because of PAH. Her 14-year-old sister also had mutated the BMPR2 gene without developing FPAH. Conclusions: The Potts shunt provides an interventional step for palliation of patients with familial pulmonary hypertension and severe right heart failure refractory to medical treatment. It opens the door to the possibility of lung transplantation in the future. We did not see any complications within 6 years after placing the Potts shunt.

Evans syndrome in children: the results of a retrospective study of 54 patients

Evans syndrome (ES) is a rare disorder accompanied by autoimmune hemolytic anemia and immune thrombocytopenia. ES in children is often associated with the defect of immune system regulation. This article presents an analysis of the results of investigation of 54 children with ES admitted to the Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology during the period 2012–2019. The male-to-female ratio was 1.07:1 and the median age of the disease onset was 4 years (0 months – 16 years). Based on the results of molecular genetic testing, the diagnosis was changed in three patients to congenital TTP. Thus, for further analysis 51 patients were available. Thirty-nine out of 51 children (76.5%) had secondary ES, the median age of the disease onset was 4 years (2 months – 12 years), the male-to-female ratio was 1.05:1. PID was genetically confimed in 25 out of 39 patients, in the remaining 14 cases the diagnosis of PID was based on clinical and laboratory fidings only. Twelve patients (22.2%) had idiopathic (primary) ES, the median age of the disease onset was 8 years (7 months – 16 years) and the male-to-female ratio was 1:1. The disease onset in ES was more often accompanied by isolated cytopenia: ITP – 22 (43.1%) patients, AIHA – 15 (29.4%) patients, immune neutropenia – 1 (2%) patient, simultaneously with AIHA and ITP – 8 (15.7%) patients, pancytopenia – 5 (9.8%) patients. The second cytopenia developed on average after 2 years (1 month – 9 years). Neutropenia was observed only in secondary ES. The mortality rate for ES was 9.8%. First-line therapy (IVIG, glucocorticoids) for ES showed low effctiveness and sustained remission was observed only in 5.9% of patients. Thirty-four (87%) patients with secondary ES and 9 (75%) patients with idiopathic ES required other lines of therapy. The next-line drugs that showed good effctiveness were rituximab (76.5%), MMF (94%), and sirolimus (83%). Combinations of rituximab and MMF, rituximab and sirolimus were also effctive and induced sustained remission without other therapy in 83.3% and 75% of patients respectively. Children with ES need thorough examination, including genetic testing, for the early diagnosis of PID and the exclusion of congenital TTP. The combination of rituximab and MMF proved to be the most effctive treatment for ES.

Are Bethesda III Thyroid Nodules More Aggressive than Bethesda IV Thyroid Nodules When Found to Be Malignant?

Simple SummaryThe Bethesda classification system is a widespread tool used in the initial screening test for thyroid nodules. The system classifies the biopsy of the nodule into 6 categories, each with its associated malignancy risk and recommendations for management. Nodules classified as Bethesda III and IV are considered intermediate risk, and although Bethesda III nodules are more likely to be benign than Bethesda IV, our hypothesis is that out of those that are malignant, a subset may be more aggressive given their diverse cellular features. In this study we looked at 628 individuals who underwent surgery with a Bethesda III or IV nodule and compared the number of aggressive features found in those with confirmed malignancy. We discovered that Bethesda III nodules that were found to be malignant were more likely to have aggressive features, such as aggressive sub-types of thyroid cancer, spread of cancer beyond the thyroid capsule, and spread of cancer to the lymph nodes. Our results suggest that Bethesda III thyroid nodules may not as indolent as they seem, and these findings may affect management decisions in individuals with indeterminate thyroid nodules.The Bethesda classification system for thyroid fine needle aspirate (FNA) is used to predict the risk of malignancy and to guide the management of thyroid nodules. We postulated that thyroid malignancies characterized as Bethesda III on FNA have more aggressive features than those classified as Bethesda IV. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify those who underwent thyroid surgery at a single tertiary hospital setting between 2015 and 2020. Associations between Bethesda category, molecular genetic test results, and histopathologic findings were examined. Out of 628 surgeries that were performed, 199 (54.2%) Bethesda III nodules and 216 (82.8%) Bethesda IV nodules were malignant. Of those that were malignant, 37 (18.6%) and 22 (10.2%) Bethesda III and Bethesda IV nodules showed aggressive features, respectively (p value = 0.014). There was a proportionally increased number of aggressive features in extra-thyroidal extension, lymph nodes metastasis, and all aggressive subtypes of papillary thyroid cancer in the Bethesda III category. Although Bethesda IV nodules are much more likely to be malignant (p value = 0.002), our study suggests that Bethesda III nodules that are resected are more likely to have aggressive features than Bethesda IV nodules, with a statistically significant increase in the solid variant of papillary thyroid cancer and lymph node metastasis.

MON-054 First Report of Monozygotic Twins with Russell Silver Syndrome in China: Recombinant Growth Hormone Therapy and 3-Year Observation

BACKGROUND: Russell Silver syndrome (RSS) is a rare genetic condition that includes an important index of suspicion when a child presents with hemihyperthrophy. There are more than 400 cases described in the literature, but twin pairs with RSS have rarely been reported. Up to now only six monozygotic twin pairs have been described [1]. However, this has not been reported in east Asian population yet. Clinical Case: A 4 years and 9 months old monozygotic twin girl with a history of growth retardation was admitted to our hospital. The first impression of the patient was: poor growth, specific facial features, asymmetry of the lower and upper limbs for length and width. Detailed physical examination revealed a small triangular face with prominent forehead, micrognathia, lips with downturned corners, and fifth finger clinodactyly on bothhands. On admission into our hospital, the examination measured a weight of 9.0 kg (-4.9SD) and a length of 88.4 cm (-5.2SD). Anthropometrically she was classified as second grade malnutrition according to World Health Organization (WHO) charts. By contrast, her twin sister was physically and anthropometrically normal.Intrauterine growth retardation, postnatal growth retardation, normal head circumference and asymmetry of the body were the major criteria that made the clinical diagnosis of Russell-Silver syndrome. Confirmation of Russell-Silver syndrome was made based on clinical findings, birth history and results of molecular genetic testing showed hypomethylation of the paternal imprinting center 1 (IC1) of chromosome 11p15.5.Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) was administered by subcutaneous injection once daily, in the evening, at a dose of 0.05 mg/ kg/day. The check-up visits in the outpatient were held every three months, and the following issues were evaluated: response to treatment, tolerability, and laboratory test results, with particular emphasis on carbohydrate metabolism and bone age progression. Currently, after 28 months of rhGH treatment, the girl has grown 18 cm, reaching a body height of 106.5 cm (-3.2SD, ΔHt SDSCA: 2SD). Her current weight is 14.1 kg (-2.9SD, ΔWt SDSCA: 2SD). So far, no serious adverse events have been observed. Conclusion: This is the first case of monozygotic twin with Russell Silver syndrome reported in east Asian population. The possibility of rhGH treatment can be considered in cases of documented GH deficiency in patients with Russell Silver syndrome, under close endocrinic supervision.

An investigation of fertility haplotypes in Holstein cows of Dutch origin under environments of the Rostov region

The intensification of animal husbandry in recent years has led to a significant increase in the productivity of farm animals. The use of modern breeding methods has led to a decrease in genetic diversity and the spread of recessive lethal and semi-lethal mutations in the animal genome. In the world population of cattle of Holstein rather high rates of fertility haplotypes have been identified that affect reproductive traits as well as those associated with embryonic and post-embryonic mortality at various stages. The results of an investigation of Holstein cows of Dutch origin (n=70) are housed in one of the breeding farms of the Rostov region for the presence of 4 fertility haplotypes: HCD (APOB), HH0 (FANCI), HH3 (SMC2) and HH5 (TFB1M) have been presented in the article. The researches have been performed as part of the task of the Federal Agency of Scientific Organizations No. AAAA18-118021590138-1. In order to diagnose mutations test systems developed in the laboratory of molecular principles of selection of the Department of biotechnology and molecular diagnostics of animals of the Federal Research Center of Animal Husbandry – All-Russian Institute of Animal Husbandry named after academician L. K. Ernst have been used. Hidden carriers of haplotypes HCD, HH0 and HH3 have been identified in the studied group of cows. The frequency of HCD, HH0, and HH3 haplotypes was 1,43 %, 7,14 and 4,29 %, respectively. Carriers of the HH5 haplotype have been not found in the studied sample of Holstein cows. The results of molecular genetic testing have been confirmed by the analysis of pedigrees. The development of methods for diagnosing genetic anomalies and identifying loci associated with the decrease in productive trait as well as continuous monitoring of breeding stock will allow selecting animals that have high productive traits and are not burdened with genetic defects and malformations.

Mantle Zone Cell Lymphomas. New Opportunities for Diagnosis and Treatment (Epidemiological Research)

Introduction. Mantle cell lymphoma is a rare type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. According to statistics the incidence of this disorder amounts to 2-3 per 100,000 people; this is about 6% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas. It has been established that various molecular genetic characteristics of mantle cell lymphoma patients may present opportunities for a patient-specific approach to the disease prognosis and treatment strategy.Materials and methods. The paper presents a retrospective analysis of 45 mantle cell lymphoma patients treated at the GAUZ RKOD of the Ministry of Healthcare from 2015 until now. The data used in the analysis included clinical examination, lab panels, PET CT, tumour and bone marrow biopsy specimen cytology, histology and immunohistochemistry. We analysed the epidemiological data, the patients’ clinical presentation characteristics, treatment approaches, immediate and long-term outcomes.Results and discussion. We have established that the pathological process most frequently involves bone marrow (44%) and spleen (41%). The MIPI scores distribution was as follows: high in 14 (30%), medium in 20 (45%), low in 11 (41%). Ki67 was recorded at under 30% in four cases, in others it amounted to over 30%. In 2015–2017 patients were treated with the R-CHOP protocol with the following support with rituximab. PFS averaged at 20 months, 8 (17%) of patients remain in lasting remission (since 2015). In 2017 the R-BAC (high dose cytarabine for SCT candidates) and R-B (for the elderly and comorbid patients) became protocols of first line. Since 2018 eight patients have undergone auto-SCT (at the first late recurrence) as a treatment consolidation stage. As of now 13 patients have been examined in federal centres for del17p and the TP53 mutation.Conclusion. We have demonstrated the need for and the option of treatment depending on the results of molecular genetic testing of mantle cell lymphomas.

Characterization of Pathogenic Variants Associated with Hereditary Thrombocytopenias in Families from the Czech Republic

Introduction Inherited thrombocytopenias (IT) are a heterogeneous group of 33 different forms of monogenic disorders caused by molecular defects affecting 40 genes at least. The pathogenic germline variants play an important role in the development and maintenance of hematopoietic system (megakaryopoesis and thrombopoesis). These changes lead to disruption of these processes and are presented as the thrombocytopenia phenotype (low platelet count, blood-examination). However, patients are occasionally misdiagnosed with the immune thrombocytopenia and unsuccessfully treated with steroid therapy and splenectomy. In some patients, accurate diagnosis of IT can only be established based on the results of molecular genetic testing. Furthermore, it has also been shown that some hematological conditions with Mendelian type of hereditability precede the development of hematooncological disease. Patients and Methods DNA samples from peripheral blood or buccal swabs of four unrelated families were isolated. The whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed using the NextSeq 500 Illumina instrument with adequate chemistry and sequencing libraries were prepared according to the SeqCap EZ Human Exome Probes v3 protocol. The generated data were processed using in-house bioinformatics pipelines. The detected pathogenic variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Moreover, the novel variant was analyzed in silico using analytical procedures including protein modelling, too. Germline DNA analysis was performed on all available samples and somatic DNA analysis was done for the oncological patient. Within each family, the obtained pathogenic variants were compared between the individuals with IT phenotype and their disease-free relatives. Results The pathogenic variants were characterized in four families with different forms of IT. Moreover, the additional genetic variants were detected in three of them which predispose to the development of hematological malignancies. In the first family, a novel heterozygous variant c.320C&gt;T; p.(Thr107Met) in TUBB1 gene is probably responsible for essential thrombocytopenia disease because all rare TUBB1 variants until now have been detected in patients with macrothrombocytopenia. The known pathogenic variant c.1402G&gt;T; p.(Val468Phe) in JAK2 gene (10.9% frequency) was identified in a family member suffering from the myeloproliferative disease. In the second family, heterozygous pathogenic variants c.3076C&gt;T; p.(Arg1026Trp) in ITGA2B gene and c.3188G&gt;A; p.(Arg1063His) in JAK2 gene were detected, associated with platelet-type bleeding disorders and hereditary erythrocytosis with megakaryocytic atypia and predisposition for hematological malignancy, respectively. It is known that stomach tumor occurred in patient´s family before. In the third family, heterozygous pathogenic variant c.3493C&gt;T; p.(Arg1165Cys) in MYH9 gene was identified in a patient with macrothrombocytopenia. This variant was associated with Sebastian syndrome, macrothrombocytopenia and granulocyte inclusions and predisposition to kidney failure, hearing loss, and cataracts. In the fourth family, ANKRD26-related thrombocytopenia with predisposition to myeloid malignancy was probably identified in a patient with detected heterogeneous known variant c.-140C&gt;G in 5´ UTR of ANKRD26 gene. Moreover, the novel c.682C&gt;T; p.(Arg228Trp) variant in SYTL3 gene with uncertain significance was detected in this patient. Conclusions The pathogenic variants were detected in unrelated affected families with macrothrombocytopenia, platelet-type bleeding disorders and hereditary erythrocytosis with megakaryocytic atypia, Sebastian syndrome, and ANKRD26-related thrombocytopenia. Moreover, the genetic variants predispose to myeloid malignancy were identified. Molecular genetic testing helped the clinicians to determine the correct diagnosis in these patients. This study was supported by Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic (grant No 16-29447A), and TA CR (TE02000058). Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

High diagnostic yield of direct Sanger sequencing in the diagnosis of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses.

BackgroundNeuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses are neurodegenerative disorders. To investigate the diagnostic yield of direct Sanger sequencing of the CLN genes, we reviewed Molecular Genetics Laboratory Database for molecular genetic test results of the CLN genes from a single clinical molecular diagnostic laboratory.MethodsWe reviewed electronic patient charts. We used consent forms and Research Electronic Data Capture questionnaires for the patients from outside of our Institution. We reclassified all variants in the CLN genes.ResultsSix hundred and ninety three individuals underwent the direct Sanger sequencing of the CLN genes for the diagnosis of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses. There were 343 symptomatic patients and 350 family members. Ninety‐one symptomatic patients had molecular genetic diagnosis of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses including CLN1 (PPT1) (n = 10), CLN2 (TPP1) (n = 33), CLN3 (n = 17), CLN5 (n = 7), CLN6 (n = 10), CLN7 (MFSD8) (n = 10), and CLN8 (n = 4) diseases. The diagnostic yield of direct Sanger sequencing of CLN genes was 27% in symptomatic patients. We report detailed clinical and investigation results of 33 NCL patients. Juvenile onset CLN1 (PPT1) and adult onset CLN6 diseases were nonclassical phenotypes.ConclusionIn our study, the diagnostic yield of direct Sanger sequencing was close to diagnostic yield of whole exome sequencing. Developmental regression, cognitive decline, visual impairment and cerebral and/or cerebellar atrophy in brain MRI are significant clinical and neuroimaging denominators to include NCL in the differential diagnosis.

Primary hyperoxaluria diagnosed after kidney transplantation failure: lesson from 3 case reports and literature review

BackgroundPrimary hyperoxaluria (PH) is a rare inborn disorder of the metabolism of glyoxylate, which causes the hallmark production oxalate and forms insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that accumulate in the kidney and other organs. Since the manifestation of PH varies from recurrent nephrolithiasis, nephrocalcinosis, and end-stage renal disease with age at onset of symptoms ranging from infancy to the sixth decade, the disease remains undiagnosed until after kidney transplantation in some cases.Case presentationHerein, we report 3 cases of PH diagnosed after kidney transplantation failure, providing the comprehensive clinical course, the ultrasonic image of renal graft and pathologic image of the biopsy, highlighting the relevance of biopsy findings and the results of molecular genetic testing. We also focus on the treatment and the unfavorable outcome of the patients. Meanwhile, we review the literature and show the additional 10 reported cases of PH diagnosed after kidney transplantation. Additionally, we discuss the progressive molecular understanding of the mechanisms involved in PH and molecular therapy.ConclusionsOverall, the necessity of preoperative screening of PH in all patients even with a minor history of nephrolithiasis and the importance of proper treatment are the lessons we learn from the 3 cases, which prompt us to avoid tragedies.

Risk factors of thrombotic complications in patients with single functional ventricle

Objective: to analyze the parameters of the hemostasis system and the results of molecular genetic testing in patients with a single functional ventricle. The study included 102 patients. All the patients underwent a staged surgical hemodynamic correction of a single functional ventricle. The authors performed a retrospective analysis of patient records in order to identify the episodes of thrombosis. The incidence of thrombotic complications at different stages of hemodynamic correction in the examined patients with a single functional ventricle was 12.7%. The indicators of plasma link hemostasis in the observed patients have been characterized by a balance of hemostatic reactions in the group of children with thrombosis and without. The results of a molecular genetic study demonstrated that the carrier of the heterozygous genotype of 20210GA factor II gene in patients with a single functional ventricle increased the risk of thrombotic complications 16 times (15.4% in patients with thrombosis versus 1.1% in the group without thrombosis; odds ratio 16.0; 95% confidence interval 1.34–191.24; p=0.028). All patients with thrombosis in the history revealed a homozygous condition according to variant 10976GG factor VII gene (p=0.017). Conclusion: molecular genetic analysis of polymorphic variants of the hemostatic system in patients with a single functional ventricle is required to predict the risk, timely prevention and correction of thrombotic complications during the surgical treatment of congenital heart disease.