Orphan or Rare Diseases

Use of the bibliometric in rare diseases: taking Wilson disease personally

Fri, 2022-07-29 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2022 Jul 29;17(1):297. doi: 10.1186/s13023-022-02459-7.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Bibliometric have been widely applied to the evaluation of academic productivity. However, those of individuals or institutions on a specific disease have not been explored. The aim of the present study is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of particular rare disease and investigate whether those doctors and hospitals with higher index screened by this method specialize in this disease.

METHODS: A representative rare disease, Wilson disease (WD), was searched on Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science and Elsevier's Scopus, which was published in English between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2020. Clinical authors and medical institutions with the most papers were screened, and their total number of publications and citations, h-index and g-index were computed and then ranked by h-index.

RESULTS: A total of 6856 and 6193 papers and 200 and 160 authors were got from WoS and Scopus, respectively. Scopus provided 160 institutions. The above bibliometric indices were calculated in 100 researchers and 80 institutions, and top 30 authors (Top-30a) and top 20 institutions (Top-20i) of them based on the h-index were listed in the tables. Top-30a came from seven specialties and 13 countries whose median (interquartile range) h-index was 14 (12-19.5) (range 10-28) which was located between associate and full professors in some other disciplines. Top-20i was distributed in 13 countries whose mean ± standard deviation of the h-index was 15 ± 4.9 (range 10-27).

CONCLUSIONS: The related specialists and medical institutions of WD screened by specific disease bibliometric analysis are eminent and credible and benefit WD patients to obtain reliable medical treatment. This model may be suitable for other rare diseases.

PMID:35906666 | PMC:PMC9335981 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-022-02459-7

Categories: Literature Watch

Health-related quality of life and health literacy in patients with systemic mastocytosis and mast cell activation syndrome

Fri, 2022-07-29 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2022 Jul 29;17(1):295. doi: 10.1186/s13023-022-02439-x.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Systemic mastocytosis is a rare genetic disease characterized by aberrant proliferation and/or activation of mast cells, resulting in multi-organ, allergy-like symptoms. Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is a clinically similar, but more prevalent disease with unclear etiology. In this study, the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and health literacy of people suffering from SM and MCAS were assessed.

RESULTS: Two validated questionnaires (QLQ-C30/QLQ-INFO25) from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) were used to analyze HRQOL and level of information of SM and MCAS patients. In addition, a control group without any health issues was included. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and linear regression to detect significant differences. Questionnaire data from 66 patients with MCAS (83% female, mean 44 years), 32 patients with SM (78% female, mean 53 years) and 52 healthy participants (67% female, mean 48 years) resident in Germany were analyzed. HRQOL as measured by the Global health status was significantly worse in patients suffering from MCAS or SM compared to control group. Individuals with MCAS showed a slightly, but insignificantly lower score on Global health status, and a significantly lower score with respect to role function and fatigue. Patients with the rare disease SM felt significantly better informed on their disease compared to MCAS patients. Linear regression performed separately for both groups showed a direct influence of the level of information on patients' HRQOL.

CONCLUSION: Overall, our study showed a significant negative impact on the HRQOL of both diseases, but only a small difference in quality of life and severity of symptoms between patients with MCAS and the supposedly more severe form, the rare disease SM. Our results demonstrate that the level of information patients receive impacts HRQOL, and that this is not only an issue in rare diseases, but also diseases with unclear etiology and pathology. Our data shows that even slight improvements in the patient's level of information can have a positive effect on their quality of life, further highlighting the importance of gaining more knowledge on rare and incompletely understood diseases and communicating these insights to patients.

PMID:35906626 | PMC:PMC9336039 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-022-02439-x

Categories: Literature Watch

Criteria to define rare diseases and orphan drugs: a systematic review protocol

Fri, 2022-07-29 06:00

BMJ Open. 2022 Jul 29;12(7):e062126. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062126.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Rare diseases (RDs) are often chronic and progressive life-threatening medical conditions that affect a low percentage of the population compared with other diseases. These conditions can be treated with medications known as orphan drugs (ODs). Unfortunately, there is no universal definition of RDs or ODs. This systematic review (SR) will identify the quantitative and qualitative criteria and the underlying rationale used internationally to define RDs and ODs.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This protocol follows the conventions for the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (2015 guidelines). A SR will be conducted, including a search of the following databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, GreyLit and OpenGrey. Eligible publications will be selected based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Extracted data will be analysed using thematic and content analyses of qualitative descriptors, whereas quantitative data will be analysed descriptively and reported in the form of frequencies and percentages.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: No ethical approval is required since this SR focuses on the secondary analysis of data retrieved from the scientific literature. The outcomes of this SR will be published as part of a PhD thesis, presented at conferences, and published in peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42021252701.

PMID:35906057 | DOI:10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062126

Categories: Literature Watch

MRI in the prognostic evaluation of patients with rectal cancer - Authors' reply

Thu, 2022-07-28 06:00

Lancet Oncol. 2022 Aug;23(8):e367. doi: 10.1016/S1470-2045(22)00453-3.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35901828 | DOI:10.1016/S1470-2045(22)00453-3

Categories: Literature Watch

A child with a bald spot on her scalp

Thu, 2022-07-28 06:00

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2022 Jul 18;166:D6860.

ABSTRACT

A 6-month-old girl with an isolated bald spot was seen at the general practice. We diagnosed aplasia cutis congenita, a rare disorder with a wide variation in clinical symptoms. Most lesions can be managed conservatively. Larger defects, however, require surgery.

PMID:35899755

Categories: Literature Watch

Consideration on the Research and Development of New Drugs for Rare Tumors

Thu, 2022-07-28 06:00

Zhongguo Fei Ai Za Zhi. 2022 Jul 20;25(7):443-447. doi: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2022.101.26.

ABSTRACT

In recent years, China's anti-tumor drugs has shown a continuous growth trend, and the activity of anti-tumor research and development in China accounts for a higher proportion in the world. However, further analysis of research and development hotspots show that the research and development of anti-tumor drugs is uneven among different tumor types. Due to the small number of the patients, it is difficult to conduct clinical trials, resulting in less drug development in the field of rare tumors. However, patients' treatment needs will also bring potential opportunities for pharmaceutical companies. The development of basic research and the discovery of new molecular tumor typing make "rare tumors" a dynamic concept. The scope of "rare tumors" may gradually expand with the precise development of treatment; or as the knowledge of tumors gradually develops from histocytology to the molecular level, It is possible that certain tumors with specific mutations can be combined into a group of non-rare "pan-tumors". Rare tumors are characterized by both rare diseases and tumors. Its drug research and development should not only meet the requirements of tumor drug research and development, but also adapt to the characteristics of rare diseases. Therefore, in the drug research and development, we can refer to the research and development principle of rare disease drugs, combine with the characteristics of tumor diseases, make full use of non-rare tumor clinical trials, make full use of scientific tools and exquisite trial design, and realize the promotion of the research and development of rare tumor drugs. This paper will summarize the thoughts in the review of new drugs in the field of rare tumors, in order to provide guidance for the industry. .

PMID:35899439 | DOI:10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2022.101.26

Categories: Literature Watch

Current status and trend of clinical development of orphan drugs in China

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2022 Jul 27;17(1):294. doi: 10.1186/s13023-022-02440-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Rare diseases have been increasingly recognized as unmet medical and health needs worldwide; a growing demand for the development of orphan drugs emerges subsequently. Therefore, it is of great interest for both the Chinese regulatory agency and pharmaceutical companies to keep tract on the clinical development of orphan drugs in China.

OBJECTIVE AND METHOD: This study aims to reveal the current situation and trend of the clinical development of orphan drugs in China, based on the data collected from the Chinese official platform, dating from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2021.

RESULTS: A total of 331 clinical trials for orphan drugs were extracted from the platform, covering 31 rare diseases and 124 drugs. Increases were seen in the annual number of clinical trials and drugs being tested, with a sharp increase after 2018. About the disease types of the 331 trials, Parkinson disease (young-onset, early-onset) (86, 26%), hemophilia (70, 21%), homozygote hypercholesterolemia (60, 18%) were the most common. Furthermore, it was also observed that the largest number of clinical trial units for rare disease in east China (90, 41%) and the smallest number located in northwest China (18, 6%) and northeast China (18, 6%).

CONCLUSIONS: The growth trends illustrate the progress in clinical trial and drug development of rare diseases from 2013 to 2021. However, promoting orphan drugs development still is an important issue in China; at the same time, further efforts should be made for meet the unmet needs of disease types and balance the uneven distribution of medical resources for clinical trial on rare diseases.

PMID:35897012 | DOI:10.1186/s13023-022-02440-4

Categories: Literature Watch

Early Neonatal Cardiac Phenotype in Hurler Syndrome: Case Report and Literature Review

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Genes (Basel). 2022 Jul 22;13(8):1293. doi: 10.3390/genes13081293.

ABSTRACT

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is a rare inherited lysosomal disorder caused by deficiency of the α-L-iduronidase enzyme, resulting in the progressive accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which interfere with the normal function of multiple tissues and organs. The clinical phenotype includes characteristic facial features, hepatosplenomegaly, dysostosis multiplex, umbilical and inguinal hernias, progressive cognitive deficits with corresponding hydrocephalus, and neuropathology. Untreated children do not survive into the second decade. The common cardiac phenotype seen in MPS I and other MPS types includes valve thickening and dysfunction, conduction abnormalities, coronary artery disease, and cardiomyopathy-usually seen later in the disease course. A 15-month-old ex-35-weeker who presented with cardiomyopathy and left ventricular failure at the age of three weeks is presented here. Early evaluation and diagnosis with the help of newborn screening (NBS), followed by treatment with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), resulted in improvement of his cardiopulmonary status. In MPS I, an early cardiac phenotype is uncommon. Based on the evidence from the literature review for early neonatal cardiac phenotype, we propose that all infants with abnormal newborn screening for MPS I should receive cardiac screening with echocardiogram and NT-proB-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) during the initial evaluation.

PMID:35893030 | DOI:10.3390/genes13081293

Categories: Literature Watch

Mini-Review on the Harlequin Syndrome-A Rare Dysautonomic Manifestation Requiring Attention

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Medicina (Kaunas). 2022 Jul 15;58(7):938. doi: 10.3390/medicina58070938.

ABSTRACT

Harlequin syndrome (HS) is a rare autonomic disorder. The causes and risk factors of the disease are not fully understood. Some cases of HS are associated with traumatic injuries, tumors, or vascular impairments of the head. Symptoms of HS can also occur in some autoimmune disorders, ophthalmic disorders, sleep disorders, and with certain organic lesions. In this context, a thorough review of the pathophysiology of HS in relation to neurological, ophthalmological, and dermatological conditions is necessary. In this mini-review, we aim to review the pathophysiological changes and underlying mechanisms in primary and secondary HS. Additionally, we discuss possible management approaches for patients with HS in light of the discussed pathological mechanisms. The main symptoms of HS that are correlated with autonomic nervous system impairments include sudden unilateral flushing of the face, neck, chest, and rarely arm, with concurrent contralateral anhidrosis. Despite reported co-occurring syndromes (such as cluster headaches), several studies have shown that HS could frequently overlap with other syndromes that are disruptive to the idiopathic nerve pathways. HS usually does not require any medical treatment. In some severe cases, symptomatic treatments could be needed. However, total symptomatic relief may not be achieved in many cases of HS. We therefore suggest an approach to comprehensive management of HS, which may lead to better long-term control of HS.

PMID:35888657 | DOI:10.3390/medicina58070938

Categories: Literature Watch

Paroxysmal Finger Hematoma-A Probable Vascular Disorder in Post-COVID-19 Condition: Two Clinical Case Presentations

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Medicina (Kaunas). 2022 Jul 10;58(7):915. doi: 10.3390/medicina58070915.

ABSTRACT

Background and Objectives: Achenbach's syndrome is usually a benign, self-limiting clinical condition presented with finger discoloration, pain, and edema. Etiology, pathogenesis, and incidence remain unknown due to the variety of clinical features and the diversity of disease states leading to digital ischemia. COVID-19 primarily affects microcirculation, causing endothelial damage and disseminated microthrombosis. Materials and Methods: We reviewed two cases of Caucasian women with Achenbach's syndrome after COVID-19 infection recovery between April and May 2021. Results: Here are presented two extremely rare cases of paroxysmal finger hematoma in two female patients after COVID-19 infection recovery. Conclusions: The exact etiology and pathophysiology of Achenbach's syndrome remain unclear. It is assumed that SARS-CoV-2 infection could be the triggering factor in the pathophysiological mechanism of paroxysmal finger hematoma. We highly recommend the implication of the synthetic prostacyclin receptor agonist (Iloprost) as a first-line conservative treatment in patients with Achenbach's syndrome and COVID-19 infection recovery.

PMID:35888634 | DOI:10.3390/medicina58070915

Categories: Literature Watch

Screening of Patient Impairments in an Outpatient Clinic for Suspected Rare Diseases-A Cross-Sectional Study

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jul 21;19(14):8874. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19148874.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Most rare diseases are chronic conditions with variable impairment of functionality, which can result in a need for rehabilitation. To our knowledge, there are no systematic studies on the rehabilitation needs of patients in centres for rare diseases in the literature. Our hypothesis is that participation of these patients is so limited that there is an increased need for rehabilitation. For this reason, a survey on the need for rehabilitation was carried out in all patients presenting to the centre for rare diseases, in order to assess the need for rehabilitative measures to counteract disturbances in activity and participation.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed to collect data using a written questionnaire from December 2020 to June 2021, including patients presenting personally in the center for rare diseases.

RESULTS: Nearly 70% of the participants assessed their own ability to work as critical. Of those surveyed, n = 30 (44.9%) had PDI total ≥ 33 points and, thus, a clear pain-related impairment.

CONCLUSION: The results show functional restrictions in the areas of mental well-being and activity. As expected, the health-related quality of life is reduced as compared to healthy people. Almost half of the participants reported significant pain-related impairments, however, only 9% of all respondents stated that they had received appropriate pain therapy. The results show the need for rehabilitation-specific skills in the care and counseling of patients with rare diseases.

PMID:35886725 | DOI:10.3390/ijerph19148874

Categories: Literature Watch

Benefits and Risks of Sharing Genomic Data for Research: Comparing the Views of Rare Disease Patients, Informal Carers and Healthcare Professionals

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jul 19;19(14):8788. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19148788.

ABSTRACT

Assessing public and patients' expectations and concerns about genomic data sharing is essential to promote adequate data governance and engagement in rare diseases genomics research. This cross-sectional study compared the views of 159 rare disease patients, 478 informal carers and 63 healthcare professionals in Northern Portugal about the benefits and risks of sharing genomic data for research, and its associated factors. The three participant groups expressed significantly different views. The majority of patients (84.3%) and informal carers (87.4%) selected the discovery of a cure for untreatable diseases as the most important benefit. In contrast, most healthcare professionals revealed a preference for the development of new drugs and treatments (71.4%), which was the second most selected benefit by carers (48.3%), especially by the more educated (OR (95% CI): 1.58 (1.07-2.34)). Lack of security and control over information access and the extraction of information exceeding research objectives were the two most often selected risks by patients (72.6% and 50.3%, respectively) and carers (60.0% and 60.6%, respectively). Conversely, professionals were concerned with genomic data being used to discriminate citizens (68.3%), followed by the extraction of information exceeding research objectives (54.0%). The latter risk was more frequently expressed by more educated carers (OR (95% CI): 1.60 (1.06-2.41)) and less by those with blue-collar (OR (95% CI): 0.44 (0.25-0.77) and other occupations (OR (95% CI): 0.44 (0.26-0.74)). Developing communication strategies and consent approaches tailored to participants' expectations and needs can benefit the inclusiveness of genomics research that is key for patient-centred care.

PMID:35886636 | DOI:10.3390/ijerph19148788

Categories: Literature Watch

Two Semiconductor Companies' Financial Support Compensation (FSC) Programs for Semiconductor Workers with Suspected Work-Related Diseases (WRDs)

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jul 17;19(14):8694. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19148694.

ABSTRACT

This study described two companies' financial compensation programs for semiconductor workers with suspected work-related diseases (WRDs) and discussed the major related issues. The key contents of the programs found on the websites opened by two semiconductor companies (Samsung and SK Hynix) were cited. In order to select the suspected WRDs for the FSC, all available epidemiologic studies related to health problems conducted in the semiconductor industry were reviewed. Most program contents are similar, although the amount of financial compensation and a few types of disease available for compensation differ between the companies. The group of cancer, rare disease, childhood rare disease among children born to semiconductor workers (hereafter selected diseases among offspring), and fetal loss, including spontaneous abortion (SAB) and stillbirth, were considered for compensation. An employment duration of longer than one year on a semiconductor production line is required for FSC for cancer or rare disease. The FSC for SAB and offspring disease require a period of employment longer than one month, either before three months prior to conception or between conception and childbirth. The maximum amount of compensation per type of cancer and rare disease was fixed based on the medical treatment fee. The FSC programs of the two companies have been operated successfully to date. These programs are arguably considered to contribute to resolving the conflict between companies and workers with WRDs.

PMID:35886546 | DOI:10.3390/ijerph19148694

Categories: Literature Watch

A Formative Study of the Implementation of Whole Genome Sequencing in Northern Ireland

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Genes (Basel). 2022 Jun 21;13(7):1104. doi: 10.3390/genes13071104.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The UK 100,000 Genomes Project was a transformational research project which facilitated whole genome sequencing (WGS) diagnostics for rare diseases. We evaluated experiences of introducing WGS in Northern Ireland, providing recommendations for future projects.

METHODS: This formative evaluation included (1) an appraisal of the logistics of implementing and delivering WGS, (2) a survey of participant self-reported views and experiences, (3) semi-structured interviews with healthcare staff as key informants who were involved in the delivery of WGS and (4) a workshop discussion about interprofessional collaboration with respect to molecular diagnostics.

RESULTS: We engaged with >400 participants, with detailed reflections obtained from 74 participants including patients, caregivers, key National Health Service (NHS) informants, and researchers (patient survey n = 42; semi-structured interviews n = 19; attendees of the discussion workshop n = 13). Overarching themes included the need to improve rare disease awareness, education, and support services, as well as interprofessional collaboration being central to an effective, mainstreamed molecular diagnostic service.

CONCLUSIONS: Recommendations for streamlining precision medicine for patients with rare diseases include administrative improvements (e.g., streamlining of the consent process), educational improvements (e.g., rare disease training provided from undergraduate to postgraduate education alongside genomics training for non-genetic specialists) and analytical improvements (e.g., multidisciplinary collaboration and improved computational infrastructure).

PMID:35885887 | DOI:10.3390/genes13071104

Categories: Literature Watch

Molecular Basis of Rare Diseases Associated to the Maturation of Mitochondrial [4Fe-4S]-Containing Proteins

Wed, 2022-07-27 06:00

Biomolecules. 2022 Jul 21;12(7):1009. doi: 10.3390/biom12071009.

ABSTRACT

The importance of mitochondria in mammalian cells is widely known. Several biochemical reactions and pathways take place within mitochondria: among them, there are those involving the biogenesis of the iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters. The latter are evolutionarily conserved, ubiquitous inorganic cofactors, performing a variety of functions, such as electron transport, enzymatic catalysis, DNA maintenance, and gene expression regulation. The synthesis and distribution of Fe-S clusters are strictly controlled cellular processes that involve several mitochondrial proteins that specifically interact each other to form a complex machinery (Iron Sulfur Cluster assembly machinery, ISC machinery hereafter). This machinery ensures the correct assembly of both [2Fe-2S] and [4Fe-4S] clusters and their insertion in the mitochondrial target proteins. The present review provides a structural and molecular overview of the rare diseases associated with the genes encoding for the accessory proteins of the ISC machinery (i.e., GLRX5, ISCA1, ISCA2, IBA57, FDX2, BOLA3, IND1 and NFU1) involved in the assembly and insertion of [4Fe-4S] clusters in mitochondrial proteins. The disease-related missense mutations were mapped on the 3D structures of these accessory proteins or of their protein complexes, and the possible impact that these mutations have on their specific activity/function in the frame of the mitochondrial [4Fe-4S] protein biogenesis is described.

PMID:35883565 | DOI:10.3390/biom12071009

Categories: Literature Watch

A systematic analysis of splicing variants identifies new diagnoses in the 100,000 Genomes Project

Tue, 2022-07-26 06:00

Genome Med. 2022 Jul 26;14(1):79. doi: 10.1186/s13073-022-01087-x.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Genomic variants which disrupt splicing are a major cause of rare genetic diseases. However, variants which lie outside of the canonical splice sites are difficult to interpret clinically. Improving the clinical interpretation of non-canonical splicing variants offers a major opportunity to uplift diagnostic yields from whole genome sequencing data.

METHODS: Here, we examine the landscape of splicing variants in whole-genome sequencing data from 38,688 individuals in the 100,000 Genomes Project and assess the contribution of non-canonical splicing variants to rare genetic diseases. We use a variant-level constraint metric (the mutability-adjusted proportion of singletons) to identify constrained functional variant classes near exon-intron junctions and at putative splicing branchpoints. To identify new diagnoses for individuals with unsolved rare diseases in the 100,000 Genomes Project, we identified individuals with de novo single-nucleotide variants near exon-intron boundaries and at putative splicing branchpoints in known disease genes. We identified candidate diagnostic variants through manual phenotype matching and confirmed new molecular diagnoses through clinical variant interpretation and functional RNA studies.

RESULTS: We show that near-splice positions and splicing branchpoints are highly constrained by purifying selection and harbour potentially damaging non-coding variants which are amenable to systematic analysis in sequencing data. From 258 de novo splicing variants in known rare disease genes, we identify 35 new likely diagnoses in probands with an unsolved rare disease. To date, we have confirmed a new diagnosis for six individuals, including four in whom RNA studies were performed.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, we demonstrate the clinical value of examining non-canonical splicing variants in individuals with unsolved rare diseases.

PMID:35883178 | DOI:10.1186/s13073-022-01087-x

Categories: Literature Watch

Mobile Apps for People With Rare Diseases: Review and Quality Assessment Using Mobile App Rating Scale

Tue, 2022-07-26 06:00

J Med Internet Res. 2022 Jul 26;24(7):e36691. doi: 10.2196/36691.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Mobile apps are becoming increasingly popular, with 5.70 million apps available in early 2021. Smartphones can provide portable and convenient access to health apps. Here, we consider apps for people with one of the estimated 7000 rare conditions, which are defined as having an incidence of <1 in 2000. The needs of people with rare conditions are known to be different from those of people with more common conditions. The former may be socially isolated (not knowing anyone else who has the condition) and may not be able to find reliable information about the disorder.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review is to search for apps developed specifically for people diagnosed with a rare disease and to assess them for quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). We examine features that address 6 identified needs of people with a rare disorder and make recommendations for future developers.

METHODS: Google Play Store (Android) and Apple App Store (iOS) were searched for relevant health-related apps specifically for rare diseases. The search included the names of 10 rare disease groups. App quality was determined using MARS, assessing app engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information.

RESULTS: We found 29 relevant apps (from a total of 2272) addressing 14 rare diseases or disease groups. The most common rare conditions addressed were cystic fibrosis (n=6), hemophilia (n=5), and thalassemia (n=5). The most common app features were web-based information and symptom trackers. The mean MARS score was 3.44 (SD 0.84). Lowest scores were for engagement.

CONCLUSIONS: Most apps provided factual and visual information, providing tools for self-monitoring and resources to help improve interactions during health consultations. App origin and quality varied greatly. Developers are recommended to consider ways to make appropriate apps more easily identifiable to consumers, to always include high-quality information, improve engagement, provide qualitative evaluations of the app, and include consumers and clinicians in the design.

PMID:35881435 | DOI:10.2196/36691

Categories: Literature Watch

Improving Development of Drug Treatments for Pregnant Women and the Fetus

Tue, 2022-07-26 06:00

Ther Innov Regul Sci. 2022 Jul 25. doi: 10.1007/s43441-022-00433-w. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The exclusion of pregnant populations, women of reproductive age, and the fetus from clinical trials of therapeutics is a major global public health issue. It is also a problem of inequity in medicines development, as pregnancy is a protected characteristic. The current regulatory requirements for drugs in pregnancy are being analyzed by a number of agencies worldwide. There has been considerable investment in developing expertise in pregnancy clinical trials (for the pregnant person and the fetus) such as the Obstetric-Fetal Pharmacology Research Centers funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Progress has also been made in how to define and grade clinical trial safety in pregnant women, the fetus, and neonate. Innovative methods to model human pregnancy physiology and pharmacology using computer simulations are also gaining interest. Novel ways to assess fetal well-being and placental function using magnetic resonance imaging, computerized cardiotocography, serum circulating fetoplacental proteins, and mRNA may permit better assessment of the safety and efficacy of interventions in the mother and fetus. The core outcomes in women's and newborn health initiative is facilitating the consistent reporting of data from pregnancy trials. Electronic medical records integrated with pharmacy services should improve the strength of pharmacoepidemiologic and pharmacovigilance studies. Incentives such as investigational plans and orphan disease designation have been taken up for obstetric, fetal, and neonatal diseases. This review describes the progress that is being made to better understand the extent of the problem and to develop applicable solutions.

PMID:35881237 | DOI:10.1007/s43441-022-00433-w

Categories: Literature Watch

Rhizomelic Chondro-Dysplasia Punctate (RCDP)

Sat, 2022-07-23 06:00

Indian Pediatr. 2022 Jul 15;59(7):587.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35869882

Categories: Literature Watch

New Drug Treats Rare Genetic Overgrowth Disorder

Thu, 2022-07-21 06:00

Am J Nurs. 2022 Aug 1;122(8):22-23. doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000854968.37305.7a.

ABSTRACT

The Food and Drug Administration has approved alpelisib (Vijoice) to treat a rare noninherited genetic disorder called PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum.

PMID:35862598 | DOI:10.1097/01.NAJ.0000854968.37305.7a

Categories: Literature Watch

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