Orphan or Rare Diseases

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) in children: An update of this orphan disease

Fri, 2024-10-25 06:00

Bull Cancer. 2024 Oct 24:S0007-4551(24)00333-3. doi: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2024.07.011. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) are tumours of the digestive tract that mainly develop in adults. Recommendations for the management of GIST in pediatrics are limited.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed an updated review of the literature serving as a basis for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations for GIST in children and young adults (YA).

RESULTS: GIST in pediatric population can have a sporadic presentation but occur more often in a syndromic and/or familial context. Currently more than 170 cases of sporadic GIST or in association with Carney-Stratakis syndrome or Carney's triad family cases of familial GIST have been described in children and YA. These syndromes are frequently associated with germline or somatic alterations in a sub-unit of Succinate Dehydrogenase (SDH). In contrast, the frequency of somatic KIT and PDGFRα oncogene mutations (±15%) is significantly lower as compared to adults with GIST. The recommendations for the management of children with GIST are generally comparable to those used for adult patients, although certain biological differences influence the therapeutic attitude.

CONCLUSIONS: International collaborations have been deployed in order to increase the clinical and biological knowledge of this orphan pathology in pediatrics.

PMID:39455327 | DOI:10.1016/j.bulcan.2024.07.011

Categories: Literature Watch

Phase II clinical trial assessing the efficacy of enzalutamide in advanced non-resectable granulosa cell ovarian tumors: The GREKO III study (GETHI2016-01)

Fri, 2024-10-25 06:00

Gynecol Oncol. 2024 Oct 24;191:233-239. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.10.019. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Granulosa cell ovarian tumors (GCT) are orphan disease with limited treatments. Hormone therapy is a potential treatment, due to the overexpression of hormone receptors in most tumors. This study explores the activity of the antiandrogen, enzalutamide, in metastatic cases.

METHODS: We designed a phase II clinical trial under the Spanish Collaborative Group for Transversal Oncology and Rare and Orphan Tumors (GETTHI). Eligible participants were adult women with advanced GCT. Primary endpoint was objective response rate. Secondary endpoints included clinical benefit rate, progression-free survival, overall survival, and safety profile. Patients received enzalutamide 160 mg once daily.

RESULTS: From April 2018 to March 2020, eighteen patients were screened, and sixteen were included across nine institutions. Median age was 56.4 years (range 45-71), and most were Caucasian (14 cases), one Arabian and one Latin. ECOG performance status was zero in 13 cases (81 %) and one in three (19 %). Six patients (38 %) had previously received hormone therapy as adjuvant treatment or for advanced disease, and 15 (94 %) chemotherapy. Median time from metastasis to study entry was 96 months (range 4.5-198). No objective response was observed, but the clinical benefit rate reached 68.8 % (95 % CI [46 %-91.5 %]). Median progression-free survival was 3.8 months (95 % CI [1.36-6.14]). Median overall survival was not reached, with a median follow-up of 6 months (range 2.2-19). At the time of database closure, 14 patients had discontinued treatment, 13 due to disease progression and one by personal choice. Two deaths attributed to disease progression were recorded. Five grade 3 adverse events were reported, with only one (asthenia) deemed related to the therapy.

CONCLUSIONS: Although enzalutamide demonstrated modest activity in GCT, durable stabilization was observed in some cases.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03464201.

PMID:39454227 | DOI:10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.10.019

Categories: Literature Watch

Teprotumumab for the Treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease: Why Should We Keep Our Eyes "Wide Open"?-A Clinical and Pharmacovigilance Point of View

Fri, 2024-10-25 06:00

J Pers Med. 2024 Sep 26;14(10):1027. doi: 10.3390/jpm14101027.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Thyroid eye disease (TED) treatment has been recently revolutionized with the approval of teprotumumab, a targeted insulin growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) inhibitor. To date, teprotumumab is the only FDA-approved drug for treating TED. In this article, we would like to temper the current enthusiasm around IGF1R inhibitors. Methods: critical review of the literature by independent academic practitioners. Results: several questions should be raised. First, "how an orphan drug has become a blockbuster with annual sales exceeding $1 billion?" Teprotumumab infusions are expensive, costing about USD 45,000 for one infusion and USD 360,000 for eight infusions in a 75 kg patient. Teprotumumab approval was based on two randomized clinical trials investigating active (clinical activity score ≥ 4) TED patients. Despite this, teprotumumab was approved by the FDA for "the treatment of TED" without distinguishing between active and inactive forms. The second question is as follows: "how can a new drug, compared only to a placebo, become the new standard without being compared to historically established gold standard medical or surgical treatments?" Teprotumumab has never been compared to other medical treatments in active TED nor to surgery in chronic TED. Up to 75% of patients may experience proptosis regression after treatment discontinuation. Finally, ototoxicity has emerged as a potentially devastating side effect requiring frequent monitoring. Investigation into the long-term side effects, especially in women of childbearing age, is also warranted. Conclusions: Teprotumumab is undoubtedly a major treatment option in TED. However, before prescribing a drug, practitioners should assess its benefit/risk ratio based on the following: (i) evidence-based medicine; (ii) their empirical experience; (iii) the cost/benefit analysis; (iv) the long-term outcomes and safety profile.

PMID:39452535 | PMC:PMC11508897 | DOI:10.3390/jpm14101027

Categories: Literature Watch

Pharmacotherapy for behavioural manifestations in frontotemporal dementia: An expert consensus from the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases (ERN-RND)

Thu, 2024-10-24 06:00

Eur J Neurol. 2024 Dec;31(12):e16446. doi: 10.1111/ene.16446. Epub 2024 Oct 24.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by pervasive personality and behavioural disturbances with severe impact on patients and caregivers. In current clinical practice, treatment is based on nonpharmacological and pharmacological approaches. Unfortunately, trial-based evidence supporting symptomatic pharmacological treatment for the behavioural disturbances in FTD is scarce despite the significant burden this poses on the patients and caregivers.

METHOD: The study examined drug management decisions for several behavioural disturbances in patients with FTD by 21 experts across European expert centres affiliated with the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases (ERN-RND).

RESULTS: The study revealed the highest consensus on drug treatments for physical and verbal aggression, impulsivity and obsessive delusions. Antipsychotics (primarily quetiapine) were recommended for behaviours posing safety risks to both patients and caregivers (aggression, self-injury and self-harm) and nightly unrest. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were recommended for perseverative somatic complaints, rigidity of thought, hyperphagia, loss of empathy and for impulsivity. Trazodone was specifically recommended for motor unrest, mirtazapine for nightly unrest, and bupropion and methylphenidate for apathy. Additionally, bupropion was strongly advised against in 10 out of the 14 behavioural symptoms, emphasizing a clear recommendation against its use in the majority of cases.

CONCLUSIONS: The survey data can provide expert guidance that is helpful for healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of behavioural symptoms. Additionally, they offer insights that may inform prioritization and design of therapeutic studies, particularly for existing drugs targeting behavioural disturbances in FTD.

PMID:39447217 | PMC:PMC11555005 | DOI:10.1111/ene.16446

Categories: Literature Watch

Subtle echocardiogram findings requiring further investigation: restrictive cardiomyopathy in a rare genetic condition

Thu, 2024-10-24 06:00

BMJ Case Rep. 2024 Oct 23;17(10):e261443. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2024-261443.

ABSTRACT

Mulibrey nanism (MN) is a extremely rare genetic condition first described in 1973, with around 150 cases reported worldwide. MN is characterised by growth delay and multiorgan manifestations, the most fatal being a combination restrictive-constrictive, perimyocardial heart disease that results in diastolic heart failure. We present a male toddler with MN who presented with recurrent episodes of hypoxia, feeding intolerance, and generalised swelling (anasarca) in the setting of subtle echocardiographic findings. A multidisciplinary and systematic diagnostic approach was used to determine the underlying aetiology. Invasive cardiac testing via right heart catheterisation revealed the final diagnosis of restrictive cardiomyopathy. Transplant decision-making was limited due to hepatic involvement. This case highlights the limitations of echocardiography in diagnosing restrictive cardiomyopathy, which has a preserved ejection fraction, as well the need for multidisciplinary involvement and a family-centred approach in treating patients with this rare condition.

PMID:39448079 | DOI:10.1136/bcr-2024-261443

Categories: Literature Watch

Perceptions of patients and caregivers toward the management of rare disease in Malaysia: a qualitative research study

Thu, 2024-10-24 06:00

Int J Technol Assess Health Care. 2024 Oct 24;40(1):e34. doi: 10.1017/S0266462324000333.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The management of rare diseases is rarely addressed among policymakers and public communities. It is hindered by the lack of information on its epidemiology and burden, especially from the perspective of patients and families with rare diseases. This study aims to understand the perceptions of rare disease patients and their families in the management of rare diseases in Malaysia.

METHODOLOGY: A qualitative interview was used to explore the perceptions of patients and families regarding the management of rare diseases in Malaysia. In-depth interviews were conducted with the rare disease patients or their parents/guardians provided by three major rare disease advocacy groups, between 1 July and 15 September 2016. The interviews focused on two key areas: the challenges associated with rare disease and the issues related to accessing medication.

FINDINGS: Out of the nineteen recruited participants, seventeen (89.5 percent) completed the interview sessions. The significance of awareness, knowledge, and support from others emerged as crucial for families and patients living with rare diseases. Despite facing delayed diagnosis and treatment, a majority of patients and parents expressed satisfaction with the advancements in rare disease management. Nevertheless, a prominent challenge revolves around access to enzyme replacement therapy for eligible patients.

CONCLUSION: This study emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals understanding patient with rare diseases perceptions to tailor communication strategies, provide accurate information, and address concerns effectively. The message underscores the significance of collaboration between healthcare providers and patient support groups to deliver adequate health information, potentially enhancing patients' understanding and their illness perceptions.

PMID:39444288 | DOI:10.1017/S0266462324000333

Categories: Literature Watch

Uncertainties in evaluating the health-related quality of life and disease burden of people with rare diseases and their caregivers in NICE HST submissions

Wed, 2024-10-23 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2024 Oct 22;19(1):391. doi: 10.1186/s13023-024-03382-9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The NICE Highly Specialised Technology (HST) programme evaluates interventions for very rare conditions within the UK. This review aimed to analyse previous NICE HST appraisals and determine commonly used methods to overcome uncertainties relating to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and disease burden for people with rare diseases and their caregivers. The review also aimed to identify areas where further methodological development is required.

APPROACH AND RESULTS: A targeted review of all previous NICE HST appraisals published by the 28th February 2022, in which at least one committee meeting had taken place, was conducted. A total of 24 appraisals were included (17 fully completed and seven ongoing). Data were extracted by one reviewer. The evidence review group (ERG) and committee comments were compared against the NICE reference case and synthesised to identify the following methodological uncertainties that occurred most commonly: using alternatives to the EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D), sourcing HRQoL data from single-arm studies, measuring caregiver disutilities and estimating disease burden.

CONCLUSIONS: This review has highlighted the need for new methodology to reflect the impact of the diseases on people with rare diseases and their families. The review identified the following methodological requirements: alternative approaches that should be used when EQ-5D is not appropriate, methods to evaluate paediatric HRQoL and methods to quantify disease burden. This review also highlights the need to establish clear recommendations on the estimation of utilities across different rare diseases.

PMID:39438971 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-024-03382-9

Categories: Literature Watch

Identifying pathogenic variants in rare pediatric neurological diseases using exome sequencing

Mon, 2024-10-21 06:00

Sci Rep. 2024 Oct 21;14(1):24746. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-75020-0.

ABSTRACT

Variant annotations are crucial for efficient identification of pathogenic variants. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the utility of four annotation tools (allele frequency, ClinVar, SpliceAI, and Phenomatcher) in identifying 271 pathogenic single nucleotide and small insertion/deletion variants (SNVs/small indels). Although variant filtering based on allele frequency is essential for narrowing down on candidate variants, we found that 13 de novo pathogenic variants in autosomal dominant or X-linked dominant genes are registered in gnomADv4.0 or 54KJPN, with an allele frequency of less than 0.001%, suggesting that very rare variants in large cohort data can be pathogenic de novo variants. Notably, 38.4% candidate SNVs/small indels are registered in the ClinVar database as pathogenic or likely pathogenic, which highlights the significance of this database. SpliceAI can detect candidate variants affecting RNA splicing, leading to the identification of four variants located 11 to 50 bp away from the exon-intron boundary. Prioritization of candidate genes by proband phenotype using the PhenoMatcher module revealed that approximately 95% of the candidate genes had a maximum PhenoMatch score ≥ 0.6, suggesting the utility of phenotype-based variant prioritization. Our results suggest that a combination of multiple annotation tools and appropriate evaluation can improve the diagnosis of rare diseases.

PMID:39433808 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-024-75020-0

Categories: Literature Watch

Genome Sequencing After Exome Sequencing in Pediatric Epilepsy

Mon, 2024-10-21 06:00

JAMA Neurol. 2024 Oct 21. doi: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2024.3582. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:39432277 | DOI:10.1001/jamaneurol.2024.3582

Categories: Literature Watch

Stress and Quality of Life of Parents of Children With POLR3-Related Leukodystrophy: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study

Mon, 2024-10-21 06:00

J Child Neurol. 2024 Oct 21:8830738241283171. doi: 10.1177/08830738241283171. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Background: RNA polymerase III (POLR3)-related leukodystrophy is a rare, neurodegenerative disorder characterized by hypomyelination, hypodontia, and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Despite the challenges of caring for a child with POLR3-related leukodystrophy, few studies have examined parents' disease burden. We sought to investigate quality of life and stress levels amongst parents of children with POLR3-related leukodystrophy. Methods: 43 parents of 32 children completed questionnaires on demographics, stress, quality of life, coping mechanisms, and experience of injustice. Detailed clinical data was collected from all patients. Results: Mothers (t[27] = -8.66, P < .001) and fathers (t[16] = -4.47, P < .001) had lower quality of life scores compared to the normative population, yet 80% of parents' stress scores fell within the normal stress range. Parents' experience of injustice scores were high (>60). Correlations were found between and within parents' scores. Years since disease onset and certain life circumstances correlated to mothers' quality of life scores; however, no correlation was found between modifiable factors and fathers' quality of life scores. Helpful coping mechanisms included those that allowed parents to be involved in their child's life. Conclusions: This is the first study to assess stress and quality of life in this population. These results shed light on the importance of implementing services and social support to improve the well-being of parents.

PMID:39429022 | DOI:10.1177/08830738241283171

Categories: Literature Watch

Establishment of a value assessment framework for orphan medicinal products in China

Sun, 2024-10-20 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2024 Oct 20;19(1):390. doi: 10.1186/s13023-024-03393-6.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to establish a suitable value assessment framework for orphan medicinal products in China based on the multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method.

METHODS: First, a draft framework of the MCDA criteria was built based on a systematic literature evaluation and the EVIDEM framework tools. Second, stakeholder groups were formed and expert opinions were collected through the brainstorming and expert consultation methods. Third, from the perspective of stakeholders, the five-point weighting method and a two-step percentile distribution method were employed to weigh the quantitative criteria in the framework for orphan drug value evaluation. Meanwhile, from the public perspective, a survey was conducted on a sample of 71 people to obtain the scoring scale of the framework for orphan drugs through a two-step percentile distribution method. Finally, based on the synthetization and comparison of all evidence and methods, we developed the framework criteria and scoring scale for the orphan medicinal products.

RESULTS: Combined with the stakeholder selection and suggestions in the stakeholder workshop, the framework criteria for the evaluation were constructed based on China's national conditions, which included 11 quantitative and 8 qualitative criteria. The two-step percentile distribution method was selected as the weighting method.

CONCLUSIONS: MCDA is feasible for the value assessment of orphan drugs in China and can be used as a supplementary tool for drug access decisions in medical insurance. It is suggested to further improve the value assessment framework of orphan medicinal products, scientifically evaluate the MCDA framework weighting method, explore a framework system suitable for China's national conditions.

PMID:39428462 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-024-03393-6

Categories: Literature Watch

Addressing cancer survivors' information needs and satisfaction: a systematic review of potential intervention components for survivors with a rare cancer type

Fri, 2024-10-18 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2024 Oct 18;19(1):387. doi: 10.1186/s13023-024-03403-7.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Providing current, evidence-based information to cancer survivors is critical for informed decision making. People diagnosed with a rare cancer report higher unmet information needs compared to common cancer survivors. However, interventions providing informational support for rare cancers are limited. Therefore, the aims of this systematic review were to identify and synthesise interventions decreasing survivors' information needs and/or improving satisfaction with information, and to explore potential components to be included in an intervention for rare cancer survivors.

METHODS: Searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library. Studies reporting an intervention targeting information needs and/or patient satisfaction with information in survivors of any cancer type were included. Data were extracted, a quality assessment performed and findings were synthesised.

RESULTS: A total of 7012 studies were identified and 34 were included in the review. Five studies targeted patients with a rare cancer type; the remaining studies included common cancer survivors. Interventions varied in relation to the mode of information provision, timing of intervention delivery, and the intervention provider. The most promising interventions included face-to-face communication and written material and were delivered by a nurse. All rare cancer studies were designed around a web-based program, but none of them improved outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Interventions targeting information needs and/or patient satisfaction with information in rare cancer survivors are lacking. Future studies should focus on this underserved group, and successful aspects of interventions for common cancer survivors should be considered for inclusion when designing an intervention for rare cancer survivors.

PMID:39425097 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-024-03403-7

Categories: Literature Watch

Epigenomic and phenotypic characterization of DEGCAGS syndrome

Fri, 2024-10-18 06:00

Eur J Hum Genet. 2024 Oct 19. doi: 10.1038/s41431-024-01702-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Developmental Delay with Gastrointestinal, Cardiovascular, Genitourinary, and Skeletal Abnormalities syndrome (DEGCAGS, MIM #619488) is caused by biallelic, loss-of-function (LoF) ZNF699 variants, and is characterized by variable neurodevelopmental disability, discordant organ anomalies among full siblings and infant mortality. ZNF699 encodes a KRAB zinc finger protein of unknown function. We aimed to investigate the genotype-phenotype spectrum of DEGCAGS and the possibility of a diagnostic DNA methylation episignature, to facilitate the diagnosis of a highly variable condition lacking pathognomonic clinical findings. We collected data on 30 affected individuals (12 new). GestaltMatcher analyzed fifty-three facial photographs from five individuals. In nine individuals, methylation profiling of blood-DNA was performed, and a classification model was constructed to differentiate DEGCAGS from controls. We expand the ZNF699-related molecular spectrum and show that biallelic, LoF, ZNF699 variants cause unique clinical findings with age-related presentation and a similar facial gestalt. We also identified a robust episignature for DEGCAGS syndrome. DEGCAGS syndrome is a clinically variable recessive syndrome even among siblings with a distinct methylation episignature which can be used as a screening, diagnostic and classification tool for ZNF699 variants. Analysis of differentially methylated regions suggested an effect on genes potentially implicated in the syndrome's pathogenesis.

PMID:39424669 | DOI:10.1038/s41431-024-01702-y

Categories: Literature Watch

Cannabinoids and Genetic Epilepsy Models: A Review with Focus on CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder

Wed, 2024-10-16 06:00

Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Oct 7;25(19):10768. doi: 10.3390/ijms251910768.

ABSTRACT

Pediatric genetic epilepsies, such as CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD), are severely debilitating, with early-onset seizures occurring more than ten times daily in extreme cases. Existing antiseizure drugs frequently prove ineffective, which significantly impacts child development and diminishes the quality of life for patients and caregivers. The relaxation of cannabis legislation has increased research into potential therapeutic properties of phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD's antiseizure properties have shown promise, particularly in treating drug-resistant genetic epilepsies associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome (DS), and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). However, specific research on CDD remains limited. Much of the current evidence relies on anecdotal reports of artisanal products lacking accurate data on cannabinoid composition. Utilizing model systems like patient-derived iPSC neurons and brain organoids allows precise dosing and comprehensive exploration of cannabinoids' pharmacodynamics. This review explores the potential of CBD, THC, and other trace cannabinoids in treating CDD and focusing on clinical trials and preclinical models to elucidate the cannabinoid's potential mechanisms of action in disrupted CDD pathways and strengthen the case for further research into their potential as anti-epileptic drugs for CDD. This review offers an updated perspective on cannabinoid's therapeutic potential for CDD.

PMID:39409097 | DOI:10.3390/ijms251910768

Categories: Literature Watch

Current Overview of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 7 in Mexican Population: Challenges in Specialized Care for a Rare Disease

Wed, 2024-10-16 06:00

Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Oct 6;25(19):10750. doi: 10.3390/ijms251910750.

ABSTRACT

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) is a rare genetic disease characterized by progressive cerebellar syndrome and macular degeneration. In a previous study, we clinically and genetically characterized a group of Mexican patients, which represented one of the largest cohorts of SCA7 patients worldwide and demonstrated that all patients had a unique genetic origin. Our laboratory developed a program for the diagnosis, medical care, and long-term follow-up of these patients living in Veracruz State, and in this report, we present an update to this research, covering 2013 to 2024. So far, we identified 172 SCA7 carriers, with a few cases outside Veracruz, and our data support that the length of the CAG repeat tract mainly determines disease severity and life expectancy, and accordingly, we define three different phenotypes, early-onset (EO), classical-onset (CO), and late-onset (LO), with EO patients showing the lowest life expectancy. Furthermore, we found that parental transmission of mutant alleles leads to increased CAG repeat instability, compared to maternal ones. Interestingly, a haplotype analysis revealed that patients outside Veracruz may have different genetic origins. In conclusion, longitudinal observations of SCA7 patients provide insight into the natural history of SCA7 and help to design strategies for diagnosis, genetic counseling, physical rehabilitation, and therapeutic alternatives.

PMID:39409079 | DOI:10.3390/ijms251910750

Categories: Literature Watch

Longitudinal Analysis of Natural History Progression of Rare and Ultra-Rare Cerebellar Ataxias Using Item Response Theory

Tue, 2024-10-15 06:00

Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2024 Dec;116(6):1593-1605. doi: 10.1002/cpt.3466. Epub 2024 Oct 15.

ABSTRACT

Degenerative cerebellar ataxias comprise a heterogeneous group of rare and ultra-rare genetic diseases. While disease-modifying treatments are now on the horizon for many ataxias, robust trial designs and analysis methods are lacking. To better inform trial designs, we applied item response theory (IRT) modeling to evaluate the natural history progression of several ataxias, assessed with the widely used scale for assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA). A longitudinal IRT model was built utilizing real-world data from the large autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia (ARCA) registry. Disease progression was evaluated for the overall cohort as well as for the 10 most common ARCA genotypes. Sample sizes were calculated for simulated trials with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) and polymerase gamma (POLG) ataxia, as showcased, across multiple design and analysis scenarios. Longitudinal IRT models were able to describe the changes in the latent variable underlying SARA as a function of time since ataxia onset for both the overall ARCA cohort and the common genotypes. The typical progression rates varied across genotypes between relatively high in POLG (~ 0.98 SARA points/year at SARA = 20) and very low in COQ8A ataxia (~ 0.003 SARA points/year at SARA = 20). Smaller trial sizes were required in case of faster progression, longer trials (~ 75-90% less with 5 years vs. 2 years), and larger drug effects (~ 70-80% less with 100% vs. 50% inhibition). Simulating under the developed IRT model, the longitudinal IRT model had the highest power, with a well-controlled type I error, compared to total score models or end-of-treatment analyses. The established longitudinal IRT framework allows efficient utilization of natural history data and ultimately facilitates the design and analysis of treatment trials in rare and ultra-rare genetic ataxias.

PMID:39403821 | DOI:10.1002/cpt.3466

Categories: Literature Watch

Sweet relief: make the brain Glo against diabetic cognitive fog

Tue, 2024-10-15 06:00

J Physiol. 2024 Oct 15. doi: 10.1113/JP287622. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:39405447 | DOI:10.1113/JP287622

Categories: Literature Watch

Barth syndrome in an adult patient: an overview of the problem and case report. A review

Tue, 2024-10-15 06:00

Ter Arkh. 2024 Sep 14;96(8):812-819. doi: 10.26442/00403660.2024.08.202815.

ABSTRACT

Barth syndrome is a rare genetic disease caused by abnormal cardiolipin metabolism, characterized by high mortality within 5 years of diagnosis due to heart failure and/or infectious complications. This article describes a clinical case of an adult patient with Barth syndrome. The peculiarities of the course of the disease are described, including the transformation of the hypertrophic type of cardiomyopathy into the hypokinetic type as the patient grew older. This article demonstrates the difficulty in selecting the optimal treatment of a patient with Barth syndrome in real clinical practice, in the absence of clearly prescribed recommendations and pathogenetic therapy.

PMID:39404727 | DOI:10.26442/00403660.2024.08.202815

Categories: Literature Watch

Rare Disease Focused Antenatal Education and Diagnosis Support: Two Case Studies of Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex

Fri, 2024-10-11 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2024 Oct 11;19(1):377. doi: 10.1186/s13023-024-03397-2.

ABSTRACT

Many people living with a rare disease (RD) face challenges accessing timely diagnosis and disease-specific specialist care. Early health-care challenges for people living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare genetic disease affecting 1:20,000 individuals, can begin in the antenatal period.People living with EB in Australia have access to a government funded disease specific antenatal education and support program through the National Epidermolysis Bullosa Dressing scheme (NEBDS). This article discusses two births involving families living with EB Simplex (EBS) in regional Australia. The education and support structures implemented by the NEBDS and clinical teams are discussed in line with the Australian National Strategic Action Plan for rare diseases, and includes access to genetic diagnosis, EB education, and complex care coordination.

PMID:39394114 | PMC:PMC11470639 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-024-03397-2

Categories: Literature Watch

TVE in the management of rare diseases in hematology: raising the "Dephi" bar

Fri, 2024-10-11 06:00

Rev Infirm. 2024 Oct;73(304):40-42. doi: 10.1016/j.revinf.2024.08.013. Epub 2024 Sep 27.

ABSTRACT

Launched in 2022 at the Policlinique d'hématologie et d'immunologie (PHI) of the Centre hospitalier (CH) Saint-Louis, the therapeutic patient education (TPE) program for patients suffering from rare hematology pathologies is continuing to develop. It has led to the creation of an TPE team. To date, two workshops are up and running, and a third is nearing completion.

PMID:39393872 | DOI:10.1016/j.revinf.2024.08.013

Categories: Literature Watch

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