Galactocele in a male infant with congenital hypopituitarism

Galactocele is an uncommon benign breast lesion usually occurring in young lactating women. It is a rare cause of breast enlargement in children. We report a galactocele in a male child with congenital hypopituitarism and propose an association between the two conditions.

A new scoring system for the chances of identifying a BRCA1/2 mutation outperforms existing models including BRCAPRO

PURPOSE

To develop a simple scoring system for the likelihood of identifying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.

METHODS

DNA samples from affected subjects from 422 non-Jewish families with a history of breast and/or ovarian cancer were screened for BRCA1 mutations and a subset of 318 was screened for BRCA2 by whole gene screening techniques. Using a combination of results from screening and the family history of mutation negative and positive kindreds, a simple scoring system (Manchester scoring system) was devised to predict pathogenic mutations and particularly to discriminate at the 10% likelihood level. A second separate dataset of 192 samples was subsequently used to test the model's predictive value. This was further validated on a third set of 258 samples and compared against existing models.

RESULTS

The scoring system includes a cut-off at 10 points for each gene. This equates to >10% probability of a pathogenic mutation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 individually. The Manchester scoring system had the best trade-off between sensitivity and specificity at 10% prediction for the presence of mutations as shown by its highest C-statistic and was far superior to BRCAPRO.

CONCLUSION

The scoring system is useful in identifying mutations particularly in BRCA2. The algorithm may need modifying to include pathological data when calculating whether to screen for BRCA1 mutations. It is considerably less time-consuming for clinicians than using computer models and if implemented routinely in clinical practice will aid in selecting families most suitable for DNA sampling for diagnostic testing.

Kinetic spectrophotometric method for the determination of silymarin in pharmaceutical formulations using potassium permanganate as oxidant

A new simple and sensitive kinetic spectrophotometric method for the determination of silymarin in pure form and in pharmaceutical formulations is described. The method is based on the oxidation of the drug with potassium permanganate at pH 7.0 +/- 0.2. The reaction is followed spectrophotometrically by measuring the decrease in the absorbance at 530 nm. The calibration graph is linear in the range of 18-50 microg x m(-1). The method has been successfully applied to the determination of silymarin in pharmaceutical formulations. Statistical comparison of the results with the reference method shows excellent agreement and indicates no significant difference in accuracy and precision.

Clinical and genetic heterogeneity in peroneal muscular atrophy associated with vocal cord weakness

BACKGROUND

The peroneal muscular atrophy syndrome is the most common inherited disorder of the peripheral nervous system and has extensive clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Cranial nerve involvement is rare, though there are distinct peroneal muscular atrophy syndromes in which vocal cord paralysis is a characteristic feature. Among these dHMN-VII and HMSN-IIC are clinically similar but are differentiated by sensory involvement in HMSN-IIC. The gene for dHMN-VII, designated DHMNVP, has been localised to chromosome 2q14, but the location of the gene for HMSN-IIC is currently unknown. It has been suggested that dHMN-VII and HMSN II-C are allelic disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the contribution of the dHMN-VII predisposition gene to peroneal muscular atrophy syndromes associated with vocal cord weakness.

METHODS

Linkage analysis of microsatellite markers at chromosome 2q14 was undertaken on two families, one affected by HMSN-IIC and a second manifesting vocal cord paralysis and sensorineural deafness in addition to distal muscular atrophy.

RESULTS

Two-point LOD scores at chromosome 2q14 markers encompassing the DHMNVP gene were negative in both families.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that at least one further gene predisposing to distal muscular weakness in association with vocal cord paralysis is likely to exist, and that dHMN-VII and HMSN-IIC are unlikely to be allelic disorders. Analyses of further HMSN-IIC families are required to confirm this.

Congenital mesenterico-portal (Rex) shunt

Congenital anomalies of the portal and umbilical-venous system are rare, with few reported cases. We describe a case where the native umbilical vein had acquired mesenteric venous outflow to bypass an in-utero portal-vein (PV) obstruction and restore normal venous return to the liver. This is analogous to the recently described Rex shunt procedure used in some cases of extrahepatic portal hypertension due to PV occlusion.

Case of interstitial 12q deletion in association with Wilms tumor

A 14-month-old boy presenting with Wilms tumor (WT) was found to have a small de novo deletion of the long arm of chromosome 12 (12q11-12q13.11). Microsatellite analysis of this region from constitutional DNA showed that the paternal allele was absent between the markers D12S331 and D12S1713 (inclusive). In the WT there was no evidence of loss of the maternal chromosome. Constitutional chromosome abnormalities can often point to the presence of genes that are important in disease, and the deletion of chromosome 12 in this patient may indicate a gene involved in WT. To determine whether a WT predisposition locus exists at 12q we examined the region in two familial Wilms tumor (FWT) pedigrees unlinked to the known FWT genes on chromosomes 17q (FWT1), 19q (FWT2), and 11p (WT1). In both families WT did not segregate with chromosome 12q markers located within the deletion boundaries.

Confirmation of a gene locus for medullary cystic kidney disease (MCKD2) on chromosome 16p12

BACKGROUND

Autosomal-dominant medullary cystic kidney disease (MCKD) is an interstitial nephropathy characterized by structural renal tubular defects that result in salt wasting and a reduction in urinary concentration. The condition has clinical and morphological similarities to autosomal-recessive juvenile nephronophthisis. Two genes predisposing to MCKD have been localized. MCKD1 on chromosome 1q21 was localized in two Cypriot families, and MCKD2 on chromosome 16p12 was localized in a single Italian family. We have evaluated a large Welsh MCKD family for linkage at these two loci.

METHODS

Clinical data and DNA samples were collected from affected family members. Polymorphic microsatellite markers spanning the critical regions on chromosome 1 and chromosome 16 that encompass MCKD1 and MCKD2 were analyzed. Two-point and multipoint LOD scores were calculated.

RESULTS

The family fulfilled previously published criteria for the diagnosis of MCKD, but hyperuricemia and gout were not prominent features. Twenty-one affected individuals were identified. Mean age at death or end-stage renal disease was 47 years (37 to 60). Linkage and haplotype analysis generated strongly negative results at MCKD1 on chromosome 1q21 (two-point LOD score = -5.32). Strong evidence of linkage to MCKD2 was generated with a maximum multi-point LOD score of 3.75.

CONCLUSION

These results provide the first independent confirmation of a gene predisposing to MCKD on chromosome 16p12 and indicate that mutation of this gene is not restricted to a single family or population. The absence of hyperuricemia and gout in our family indicates that these are not obligatory features of MCKD2 mutations.

Spectrophotometric method for the determination of amlodipine besylate with ninhydrin in drug formulations

A spectrophotometric method has been developed for the determination of amlodipine besylate in pure form and in pharmaceutical preparations. The method is based on the reaction of the primary amino group of the drug with ninhydrin in N,N'-dimethylformamide (DMF) medium producing a coloured complex which absorbs maximally at 595 nm. Beer's law is obeyed in the concentration range of 10-60 microg ml(-1) with RSD of 0.66% and molar absorptivity of 6.52 x 10(3) l mol(-1) cm(-1). All variables were studied in order to optimize the reaction conditions. The proposed method has been applied successfully to the analysis of the bulk drug and its dosage forms. No interference was observed from common pharmaceutical adjuvants. Statistical comparison of the results with the reference method shows excellent agreement and indicates no significant difference in accuracy and precision.

Structure of the 5' region of the Hst70 gene transcription unit: presence of an intron and multiple transcription initiation sites

The rat Hst70 gene and its mouse counterpart Hsp70.2 belong to the family of Hsp70 heat shock genes and are specifically expressed in male germ cells. Previous studies regarding the structure of the 5' region of the transcription unit of these genes as well as localization of the 'cis' elements conferring their testis-specific expression gave contradictory results [Widlak, Markkula, Krawczyk, Kananen and Huhtaniemi (1995) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1264, 191-200; Dix, Rosario-Herrle, Gotoh, Mori, Goulding, Barret and Eddy (1996) Dev. Biol. 174, 310-321]. In the present paper we solve these controversies and show that the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of the Hst70 gene contains an intron which is localized similar to that of the mouse Hsp70.2 gene. Reverse transcriptase-mediated PCR, Northern blotting and RNase protection analysis revealed that the transcription initiation of both genes starts at two main distant sites, and one of them is localized within the intron. As a result two populations of Hst70 gene transcripts with similar sizes but different 5' UTR structures can be detected in total testicular RNA. Functional analysis of the Hst70 gene promoter in transgenic mice and transient transfection assays proved that the DNA fragment of approx. 360 bp localized upstream of the ATG transcription start codon is the minimal promoter required for testis-specific expression of the HST70/chloramphenicol acetyltransferase transgene. These experiments also suggest that the expression of the gene may depend on 'cis' regulatory elements localized within exon 1 and the intron sequences.

Fluoroquinolone-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae associated with levofloxacin therapy

Fluoroquinolone-resistant cultures of Streptococcus pneumoniae were isolated from 2 patients who were treated for pneumonia with levofloxacin. Nucleotide sequence analysis of bacterial DNA showed that the isolates contained mutations in both parC (DNA topoisomerase IV) and gyrA (DNA gyrase), which were shown previously to confer fluoroquinolone resistance. With the resistant isolates, the MICs for ciprofloxacin, gatifloxacin, grepafloxacin, levofloxacin, and trovafloxacin were above the maximal serum drug concentrations reported for standard dosage regimens. In contrast, the MICs for gemifloxacin and moxifloxacin were below the maximal serum concentrations. Increased effectiveness at blocking the growth of resistant mutants should make gemifloxacin and moxifloxacin less likely to allow the enrichment of mutants within susceptible populations. Additional resistance mutations in the isolates were readily obtained by plating on gemifloxacin- or moxifloxacin-containing agar. Thus, neither compound is expected to halt further accumulation of resistance mutations once mutant enrichment has been initiated by less potent derivatives.

Detection of multiresistant ceftazidime-susceptible Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates lacking TEM-26 after class restriction of cephalosporins

A multitude of extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) have evolved in response to the use of late generation cephalosporins. In those hospitals where Klebsiella pneumoniae and other bacteria possessing these enzymes flourish, many interventions have been applied to reduce this trend. We instituted a policy of class restriction of cephalosporins in our hospital in 1996 that led to a 44% reduction in ceftazidime-resistant K. pneumoniae hospital-wide and an 87% decrease in the surgical intensive care unit. Another interesting outcome of this strategy was the identification of multiresistant K. pneumoniae, which was now susceptible to ceftazidime. Characterization of these novel isolates demonstrated that the TEM-26 enzyme, which was responsible for ceftazidime resistance in our earlier described outbreak, was lacking in most of the isolates examined. Among the remaining ceftazidime-resistant K. pneumoniae, TEM-26 was also absent, and new enzymes that hydrolyze ceftazidime were detected. Loss of ceftazidime-hydrolyzing beta-lactamases was observed after in vitro passage of ceftazidime-resistant K. pneumoniae on antibiotic-free media. These findings suggest that class restriction of cephalosporins may increase susceptibility among extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing pathogens.

Refinement of the gene locus for autosomal dominant medullary cystic kidney disease type 1 (MCKD1) and construction of a physical and partial transcriptional map of the region

Autosomal dominant medullary cystic kidney disease (MCKD) is an adult onset tubulointerstitial nephropathy that leads to salt wasting and end-stage renal failure. A gene locus (MCKD1) has been mapped on chromosome 1q21. Here we report on a large MCKD1 family of British origin linked to the MCKD1 locus. Haplotype analysis performed with markers spanning the previously reported critical MCKD1 region allowed for the refinement of this interval to 4 cM by definition of D1S305 as a new proximal flanking marker. Furthermore, we constructed a yeast artificial chromosome, P1-related artificial chromosome, and bacterial artificial chromosome contig of this region, which is only sparsely covered by the Human Genome Sequencing Project. This enabled us to map numerous expressed sequence tags within the critical interval. This physical and partial transcriptional map of the MCKD1 region is a powerful tool for the identification of positional and functional candidate genes for MCKD1 and will help to identify the disease-causing gene.

The promoter of murine follicle-stimulating hormone receptor: functional characterization and regulation by transcription factor steroidogenic factor 1

The promoter of the FSH receptor (R) gene has been cloned from several species. Although some of its regulatory elements have been identified, its function still remains poorly characterized. Using transient transfections of luciferase reporter constructs, driven by various fragments of the murine (m) FSHR promoter, we identified a cell-specific promoter region. This domain is located in the distal part of the mFSHR promoter, -1,110 to -1,548 bp upstream of the translation initiation site, and it contains two steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1) like binding sites (SLBS). The cellular levels of SF-1 mRNA and protein closely correlated in various steroidogenic cell lines with activity of the transfected mFSHR promoter/luciferase reporter construct carrying the distal activator domain. A dose-dependent increase in FSHR promoter activity was shown in nonsteroidogenic HEK 293 cells transiently transfected with SF-1 cDNA. SF-1 was found to bind to a nonconsensus 5'-CAAGGACT-3' SLBS-3 motif in the distal part of the promoter; formation of the SF-1/SLBS-3 complex could be reversed by addition of SF-1 antibody. Mutation in the SLBS-3 domain abolished the SF-1/SLBS-3 complex in gel-shift assays and led to a significant loss of SF-1-mediated mFSHR promoter activity. The second SLBS appeared to have minor role in SF-1-regulated mFSHR expression. In conclusion, we have identified a regulatory domain in the mFSHR promoter participating in the cell-specific regulation of FSHR expression. We demonstrated for the first time that the mFSHR promoter possesses functional SF-1 binding sites and thus belongs to the group of SF-1-regulated genes. These findings provide further evidence for the key role of SF-1 in the regulation of genes involved in gonadal differentiation and endocrine functions.

Undetected hyperglycaemia among hospital in-patients

To assess the prevalence of previously undiagnosed hyperglycaemia consistent with a diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus in a consecutive series of hospital in-patients. Retrospective case note review. University Teaching Hospital. 800 consecutive hospitalised patients aged over 50 years. The main outcome measures the prevalence of hyperglycaemia [corrected]. We searched the biochemistry laboratory computerised database for results of all biochemistry tests carried out during each patient's admission. The medical records of those with at least one plasma glucose value in the hyperglycaemic range (glucose > or =11.1 mmol/l and/or > or =7.0 mmol/l on casual and/or fasting measurements respectively) were reviewed by two observers using a standardised method and a check list for data collection.

Extractive spectrophotometric methods for determination of diltiazem HCl in pharmaceutical formulations using bromothymol blue, bromophenol blue and bromocresol green

Three simple and sensitive extractive spectrophotometric methods have been described for the assay of diltiazem hydrochloride either in pure form or in pharmaceutical formulations. The developed methods involve formation of coloured chloroform extractable ion-pair complexes of the drug with bromothymol blue (BTB), bromophenol blue (BPB) and bromocresol green (BCG) in acidic medium. The extracted complexes showed absorbance maxima at 415 nm for all three methods. Beer's law is obeyed in the concentration ranges 2.5-20.0, 2.5-10.0 and 2.5-12.5 microg ml(-1) with BTB, BPB and BCG, respectively. The methods have been applied to the determination of drug in commercial tablets and capsules. Results of analysis were validated statistically and through recovery studies.

Platelet-derived growth factor receptor association with Na(+)/H(+) exchanger regulatory factor potentiates receptor activity

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is a potent mitogen for many cell types. The PDGF receptor (PDGFR) is a receptor tyrosine kinase that mediates the mitogenic effects of PDGF by binding to and/or phosphorylating a variety of intracellular signaling proteins upon PDGF-induced receptor dimerization. We show here that the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF; also known as EBP50), a protein not previously known to interact with the PDGFR, binds to the PDGFR carboxyl terminus (PDGFR-CT) with high affinity via a PDZ (PSD-95/Dlg/Z0-1 homology) domain-mediated interaction and potentiates PDGFR autophosphorylation and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation in cells. A point-mutated version of the PDGFR, with the terminal leucine changed to alanine (L1106A), cannot bind NHERF in vitro and is markedly impaired relative to the wild-type receptor with regard to PDGF-induced autophosphorylation and activation of ERK in cells. NHERF potentiation of PDGFR signaling depends on the capacity of NHERF to oligomerize. NHERF oligomerizes in vitro when bound with PDGFR-CT, and a truncated version of the first NHERF PDZ domain that can bind PDGFR-CT but which does not oligomerize reduces PDGFR tyrosine kinase activity when transiently overexpressed in cells. PDGFR activity in cells can also be regulated in a NHERF-dependent fashion by stimulation of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor, a known cellular binding partner for NHERF. These findings reveal that NHERF can directly bind to the PDGFR and potentiate PDGFR activity, thus elucidating both a novel mechanism by which PDGFR activity can be regulated and a new cellular role for the PDZ domain-containing adapter protein NHERF.

Absence of evidence for a familial breast cancer susceptibility gene at chromosome 8p12-p22

Several recent studies indicate that the majority of families with five or fewer cases of breast cancer and no cases of ovarian cancer are not due to BRCA1 or BRCA2. It has been proposed that a further breast cancer susceptibility gene that may account for some of these families is located on chromosome 8p12-p22. We have identified 31 site-specific breast cancer families that have a greater than 80% posterior probability of being due to genes other than BRCA1 or BRCA2. These families have been examined for linkage to 8p12-p22 using markers flanking the putative location of the gene. The overall multi-point LOD score is strongly negative across the whole 44 cM. The individual multi-point LOD score is negative in 23 families and only exceeds 0.5 in a single family (with a multi-point LOD score of 1.22). The maximum heterogeneity LOD score was 0.03 at marker D8S136 with estimated proportion linked (alpha) of 3% (95% CI 0 - 30%). These data do not lend support to the hypothesis that chromosome 8p12-p22 harbours a familial breast cancer susceptibility gene. Oncogene (2000) 19, 4170 - 4173

Evidence for susceptibility genes to familial Wilms tumour in addition to WT1, FWT1 and FWT2

Three loci have been implicated in familial Wilms tumour: WT1 located on chromosome 11p13, FWT1 on 17q12-q21, and FWT2 on 19q13. Two out of 19 Wilms tumour families evaluated showed strong evidence against linkage at all three loci. Both of these families contained at least three cases of Wilms tumour indicating that they were highly likely to be due to genetic susceptibility and therefore that one or more additional familial Wilms tumour susceptibility genes remain to be found.

Synthesis, Characterization and Application of a Derivatized Acidic Salt of a Tetravalent Metal. Pyridine Anchored on to Tin(IV) Tungstoselenate

The inorgano-organic ion-exchanger, tin(IV) tungstoselenate–pyridine, has been prepared by derivatizing the inorganic ion-exchange material, tin(IV) tungstoselenate, with an organic moiety, pyridine. Chemical studies showed the tin(IV) tungstoselenate/pyridine mole ratio to be 806.5:1, indicating a weak sorption of pyridine on to the surface of the tin(IV) tungstoselenate. The material was characterized on the basis of SEM, FT-IR, TGA and DTA studies. The uptake of Cu2+, Ni2+, Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions was found to be much higher on tin(IV) tungstoselenate–pyridine relative to tin(IV) tungstoselenate. The uptake of these metal ions as a function of loading and pH was also studied when the following affinity order was observed: Cu2+ > Co2+ > Ni2+ > Fe2+ > Fe3+. The uptake of metal ions increased initially with loading but became constant at higher loading. The most favourable pH range was found to be that between 3.5 and 4.5.

Elevated luteinizing hormone induces expression of its receptor and promotes steroidogenesis in the adrenal cortex

Transgenic (TG) female mice expressing bLHbeta-CTP (a chimeric protein derived from the beta-subunit of bovine luteinizing hormone [LH] and a fragment of the beta-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG]) exhibit elevated serum LH, infertility, polycystic ovaries, and ovarian tumors. In humans, increased LH secretion also occurs in infertility and polycystic ovarian syndrome, often concomitant with adrenocortical dysfunction. We therefore investigated adrenal function in LH overexpressing bLHbeta-CTP female mice. The size of their adrenals was increased by 80% with histological signs of cortical stimulation. Furthermore, adrenal steroid production was increased, with up to 14-fold elevated serum corticosterone. Primary adrenal cells from TG and control females responded similarly to ACTH stimulation, but, surprisingly, the TG adrenals responded to hCG with significantly increased cAMP, progesterone, and corticosterone production. LH receptor (LHR) expression and activity were also elevated in adrenals from female TG mice, but gonadectomized TG females showed no increase in corticosterone, suggesting that the dysfunctional ovaries of the intact TG females promote adrenocortical hyperfunction. We suggest that, in intact TG females, enhanced ovarian estrogen synthesis causes increased secretion of prolactin (PRL), which elevates LHR expression. Chronically elevated serum LH, augmented by enhanced PRL production, induces functional LHR expression in mouse adrenal cortex, leading to elevated, LH-dependent, corticosterone production. Thus, besides polycystic ovaries, the bLHbeta-CTP mice provide a useful model for studying human disorders related to elevated LH secretion and adrenocortical hyperfunction.

The combination of population pharmacokinetic studies

Pharmacokinetic data consist of drug concentrations with associated known sampling times and are collected following the administration of known dosage regimens. Population pharmacokinetic data consist of such data on a number of individuals, possibly along with individual-specific characteristics. During drug development, a number of population pharmacokinetic studies are typically carried out and the combination of such studies is of great importance for characterizing the drug and, in particular, for the design of future studies. In this paper, we describe a model that may be used to combine population pharmacokinetic data. The model is illustrated using six phase I studies of the antiasthmatic drug fluticasone propionate. Our approach is Bayesian and computation is carried out using Markov chain Monte Carlo. We provide a number of simplifications to the model that may be made in order to ease simulation from the posterior distribution.

Lobular carcinoma in situ of the breast is not caused by constitutional mutations in the E-cadherin gene

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is an unusual histological pattern of non-invasive neoplastic disease of the breast occurring predominantly in women aged between 40 and 50 years. LCIS is frequently multicentric and bilateral, and there is evidence that it is associated with an elevated familial risk of breast cancer. Although women with LCIS suffer an increased risk of invasive breast disease, this risk is moderate suggesting that LCIS may result from mutation of a gene or genes conferring a high risk of LCIS, but a lower risk of invasive breast cancer. The high frequency of somatic mutations in E-cadherin in LCIS, coupled with recent reports that germline mutations in this gene can predispose to diffuse gastric cancer, raised the possibility that constitutional E-cadherin mutations may confer susceptibility to LCIS. In order to explore this possibility we have examined a series of 65 LCIS patients for germline E-cadherin mutations. Four polymorphisms were detected but no pathogenic mutations were identified. The results indicate that E-cadherin is unlikely to act as a susceptibility gene for LCIS.

The prevalence of BRCA1 mutations in Chinese patients with early onset breast cancer and affected relatives

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of BRCA1 mutations in Chinese breast cancer patients in Singapore. BRCA1 analysis was conducted in consecutive patients with breast cancer before the age of 40 years (76 women), or whose relatives had breast or ovarian cancer (16 women). Ten patients had both early onset breast cancer and affected relatives. Genomic DNA from peripheral mononuclear blood cells was studied by using the protein transcription-translation assay (exon 11) and single-strand conformational polymorphism, with subsequent DNA sequencing. All six disease-causing mutations occurred in women under 40 years (8.6%) with three occurring in patients under 35 years (three out of 22 patients, 13.6%). Mis-sense mutations of unknown significance were found in three patients. Two of the ten women with affected relatives under 40 years had BRCA1 mutations. The prevalence of BRCA1 mutations in Chinese patients with early onset breast cancer is similar to that observed in Caucasian women. Most Chinese patients with affected relatives were not carriers of BRCA1 mutations.

G protein-coupled receptor kinase 6A phosphorylates the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger regulatory factor via a PDZ domain-mediated interaction

The Na(+)/H(+) exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF) is constitutively phosphorylated in cells, but the site(s) of this phosphorylation and the kinase(s) responsible for it have not been identified. We show here that the primary site of constitutive NHERF phosphorylation in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells is Ser(289), and that the stoichiometry of phosphorylation is near 1 mol/mol. NHERF contains two PDZ domains that recognize the sequence S/T-X-L at the carboxyl terminus of target proteins, and thus we examined the possibility that kinases containing this motif might associate with and phosphorylate NHERF. Overlay experiments and co-immunoprecipitation studies revealed that NHERF binds with high affinity to a splice variant of the G protein-coupled receptor kinase 6, GRK6A, which terminates in the motif T-R-L. NHERF does not associate with GRK6B or GRK6C, alternatively spliced variants that differ from GRK6A at their extreme carboxyl termini. GRK6A phosphorylates NHERF efficiently on Ser(289) in vitro, whereas GRK6B, GRK6C, and GRK2 do not. Furthermore, the endogenous "NHERF kinase" activity in HEK-293 cell lysates is sensitive to treatments that alter the activity of GRK6A. These data suggest that GRK6A phosphorylates NHERF via a PDZ domain-mediated interaction and that GRK6A is the kinase in HEK-293 cells responsible for the constitutive phosphorylation of NHERF.

A gene for lymphedema-distichiasis maps to 16q24.3

Lymphedema-distichiasis (LD) is a dominantly inherited syndrome with onset of lymphedema at or just after puberty. Most affected individuals have distichiasis-fine hairs arising inappropriately from the eyelid meibomian glands-which is evident from birth. A study of three families with LD has shown linkage to chromosome 16q24.3, and subsequent analysis of the region for recombinant genes places the locus between D16S422 and D16S3074, a distance of approximately 16 cM. Possible candidate genes in this interval include the N-proteinase for type 3 collagen, PCOLN3; the metalloprotease PRSM1; and the cell matrix-adhesion regulator, CMAR.

Reciprocal changes in the expression of transcription factors GATA-4 and GATA-6 accompany adrenocortical tumorigenesis in mice and humans

While certain genetic changes are frequently found in adrenocortical carcinoma cells, the molecular basis of adrenocortical tumorigenesis remains poorly understood. Given that the transcription factors GATA-4 and GATA-6 have been implicated in gene expression and cellular differentiation in a variety of tissues, including endocrine organs such as testis, we have now examined their expression in the developing adrenal gland, as well as in adrenocortical cell lines and tumors from mice and humans. Northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization revealed abundant GATA-6 mRNA in the fetal and postnatal adrenal cortex of the mouse. In contrast, little or no GATA-4 expression was detected in adrenal tissue during normal development. In vivo stimulation with ACTH or suppression with dexamethasone did not affect the expression of GATA-4 or GATA-6 in the murine adrenal gland. To assess whether changes in the expression of GATA-4 or GATA-6 accompany adrenocortical tumorigenesis, we employed an established mouse model. When gonadectomized, inhibin alpha/SV40 T-antigen transgenic mice develop adrenocortical tumors in a gonadotropin-dependent fashion. In striking contrast to the normal adrenal glands, GATA-6 mRNA was absent from adrenocortical tumors or tumor-derived cell lines, while GATA-4 mRNA and protein were abundantly expressed in the tumors and tumor cell lines. Analogous results were obtained with human tissue samples; GATA-4 expression was detected in human adrenocortical carcinomas but not in normal tissue, adenomas, or pheochromocytomas. Taken together these results suggest different roles for GATA-4 and GATA-6 in the adrenal gland, and implicate GATA-4 in adrenal tumorigenesis. Immunohistochemical detection of GATA-4 may serve as a useful marker in the differential diagnosis of human adrenal tumors.

The gene for cherubism maps to chromosome 4p16.3

Cherubism is a rare familial disease of childhood characterized by proliferative lesions within the mandible and maxilla that lead to prominence of the lower face and an appearance reminiscent of the cherubs portrayed in Renaissance art. Resolution of these bony abnormalities is often observed after puberty. Many cases are inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, although several cases without a family history have been reported. Using two families with clinically, radiologically, and/or histologically proved cherubism, we have performed a genomewide linkage search and have localized the gene to chromosome 4p16.3, with a maximum multipoint LOD score of 5. 64. Both families showed evidence of linkage to this locus. Critical meiotic recombinants place the gene in a 3-cM interval between D4S127 and 4p-telomere. Within this region a strong candidate is the gene for fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3); mutations in this gene have been implicated in a diverse set of disorders of bone development.

Prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations in patients with early-onset breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are found in most families with cases of both breast and ovarian cancer or with many cases of early-onset breast cancer. However, in an outbred population, the prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in patients with breast cancer who were unselected for a family history of this disease has not been determined.

METHODS

Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes were detected in blood samples from two population-based series of young patients with breast cancer from Britain.

RESULTS

Mutations were detected in 15 (5.9%) of 254 women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 36 years (nine [3.5%] in BRCA1 and six [2.4%] in BRCA2) and in 15 (4.1%) of 363 women diagnosed from ages 36 through 45 years (seven [1.9%] in BRCA1 and eight [2.2%] in BRCA2). Eleven percent (six of 55) of patients with a first-degree relative who developed ovarian cancer or breast cancer by age 60 years were mutation carriers, compared with 45% (five of 11) of patients with two or more affected first- or second-degree relatives. The standardized incidence ratio for breast cancer in mothers and sisters was 365 (five observed and 1.37 expected) for 30 mutation carriers and 199 (64 observed and 32.13 expected) for 587 noncarriers. If we assume recent penetrance estimates, the respective proportions of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers are 3.1% and 3.0%, respectively, of patients with breast cancer who are younger than age 50 years, 0.49% and 0.84% of patients with breast cancer who are age 50 years or older, and 0.11% and 0.12% of women in the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes make approximately equal contributions to early-onset breast cancer in Britain and account for a small proportion of the familial risk of breast cancer.

Inherited susceptibility to colorectal adenomas and carcinomas: evidence for a new predisposition gene on 15q14-q22

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of known colorectal adenoma and carcinoma susceptibility genes and to locate a novel susceptibility gene in an Ashkenazi family (SM1311) with dominantly inherited predisposition to colorectal adenomas and carcinomas.

METHODS

Clinicopathologic and family history data were collected. Genetic linkage and mutational analyses were used to investigate the genetic basis of the family's disease.

RESULTS

Affected members of SM1311 develop multiple tubular, villous, tubulovillous, and/or serrated colorectal adenomas throughout the large bowel, and some develop colon carcinoma. There are no extracolonic features clearly associated with disease in SM1311. We have shown that the family's phenotype does not result from APC mutations (including the I1307K variant) or from genetic changes in the other known genes that predispose to colon cancer. Using genetic linkage analysis, supplemented by allele loss in tumors, we have provided evidence for a new colorectal cancer susceptibility gene, CRAC1 (colorectal adenoma and carcinoma), mapping to chromosome 15q14-q22.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide evidence for a novel colorectal adenoma and carcinoma susceptibility gene on chromosome 15q14-q22. Further studies are needed to confirm this localization and to evaluate the contribution of CRAC1 to this disease.

Low frequency of germline E-cadherin mutations in familial and nonfamilial gastric cancer

Little is known about the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to the development of gastric cancer. Mutations in the cell adhesion molecule E-cadherin are recognized to be associated with the development of undifferentiated, diffuse and invasive gastric cancers. A recent study of two gastric cancer families has shown that germline mutations in the E-cadherin gene can be causative (Guilford P et al, Nature 1998; 26: 402-405). We have examined the E-cadherin gene for constitutive mutations in a systematic series of 106 gastric cancer patients, 10 with a family history of the disease and 96 sporadic cases. No pathogenic mutations were observed in any of the 106 patients. The results indicate that germline mutations in E-cadherin will not account for more than 3% of gastric cancers.

Expression and regulation of transcription factors GATA-4 and GATA-6 in developing mouse testis

Previous studies have shown that transcription factors GATA-4 and GATA-6 are expressed in granulosa and thecal cells of the mouse ovary and that GATA-4 expression in ovarian tissue is regulated by gonadotropins. Given the emerging role of GATA-4 and GATA-6 in gonadal cells, we have now studied the expression and regulation of these factors in the mouse testis and testicular cell lines. In situ hybridization demonstrated GATA-4 messenger RNA (mRNA) in the fetal testis at 13.5 days postcoitum. Both GATA-4 and GATA-6 transcripts were observed in late fetal, neonatal, juvenile, and adult Sertoli cells. In addition, GATA-4 mRNA was detected in interstitial cells throughout development. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated GATA-4 protein in both Sertoli and Leydig cells in postnatal animals. The regulation of GATA-4 and GATA-6 expression was explored using established testicular cell lines. Treatment of Leydig tumor cell lines with hCG resulted in a modest, but statistically significant, increase in the steady state level of GATA-4 mRNA, comparable to the previously described effect of FSH on GATA-4 expression in Sertoli cell lines. Gonadotropin or androgen action was not, however, a prerequisite for the basal expression of GATA-4 or GATA-6 in the testis, as their presence in Sertoli and Leydig cells was demonstrated in genetically hypogonadal hpg mice, in rats treated with GnRH receptor antagonist, and in Sertoli cells after chemical abolition of Leydig cells. Cotransfection studies using a GATA-4 expression plasmid and an inhibin alpha promoter/reporter gene construct in Leydig and granulosa tumor cell lines revealed that the inhibin alpha promoter harboring essential GATA-binding sites can be trans-activated by GATA-4. In light of these results, we propose that transcription factors GATA-4 and GATA-6 play differing roles in the maturation and function of testicular somatic cells.

The genetics of breast cancer susceptibility

Following the genomic localization and subsequent identification of the breast cancer susceptibility genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, the basic patterns of cancer risk associated with mutations in these genes have been defined. In addition, preliminary insights into the prevalence of mutations and their contributions to cancer incidence have been acquired. Features of breast and other cancers that develop in these genetic syndromes have now been investigated and shown to differ from sporadic versions of the same neoplasms. However, several areas are complex and require further clarification. There remain discrepancies between published cancer risk estimates. Furthermore, there may be variation in cancer risk between different mutations in the same gene and there is preliminary evidence that genetic and nongenetic influences may modify risks. Finally, it is probable that the genes underlying a substantial component of susceptibility to breast cancer remain to be identified.

Confirmation of FWT1 as a Wilms' tumour susceptibility gene and phenotypic characteristics of Wilms' tumour attributable to FWT1

A susceptibility gene for Wilms' tumour (WT), designated FWT1, was previously mapped to chromosome 17q12-q21 by linkage analysis of a single family. We now confirm the existence of this gene by analysis of additional cases in the original family (3-point LOD score=5.69), and by detecting strong evidence of linkage to this region in an unrelated pedigree with seven cases of WT (3-point LOD score=2.56). Analysis of 11 smaller WT families confirms that there is genetic heterogeneity in familial WT, as three families exhibit strong evidence against linkage to FWT1. One of these was subsequently found to have a predisposing WT1 mutation. However, the other two families show evidence against both FWT1 and WT1, suggesting that at least one further familial WT gene exists. Analysis of the phenotype of 16 WT cases from the families linked to FWT1 demonstrates that they present at a significantly older age and a significantly later stage than both sporadic WT and the six cases from two families unlinked to either FWT1 or WT1. The results confirm the role of FWT1 in susceptibility to WT, provide strong evidence for genetic heterogeneity in familial WT and suggest there are phenotypic differences between familial WT due to FWT1, familial WT due to other genes and non-familial WT.

Heterozygosity for mutations in the ataxia telangiectasia gene is not a major cause of radiotherapy complications in breast cancer patients

Of patients being treated by radiotherapy for cancer, a small proportion develop marked long-term radiation damage. It is believed that this is due, at least in part, to intrinsic individual differences in radiosensitivity, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. Individuals affected by the recessive disease ataxia telangiectasia (AT) exhibit extreme sensitivity to ionizing radiation. Cells from such individuals are also radiosensitive in in vitro assays, and cells from AT heterozygotes are reported to show in vitro radiosensitivity at an intermediate level between homozygotes and control subjects. In order to examine the possibility that a defect in the ATM gene may account for a proportion of radiotherapy complications, 41 breast cancer patients developing marked changes in breast appearance after radiotherapy and 39 control subjects who showed no clinically detectable reaction after radiotherapy were screened for mutations in the ATM gene. One out of 41 cases showing adverse reactions was heterozygous for a mutation (insertion A at NT 898) that is predicted to generate a truncated protein of 251 amino acids. No truncating mutations were detected in the control subjects. On the basis of this result, the estimated percentage (95% confidence interval) of AT heterozygous patients in radiosensitive cases was 2.4% (0.1-12.9%) and in control subjects (0-9.0%). We conclude that ATM gene defects are not the major cause of radiotherapy complications in women with breast cancer.

Elevated arterial base deficit in trauma patients: a marker of impaired oxygen utilization

BACKGROUND

In trauma patients, the admission value of arterial base deficit stratifies injury severity, predicts complications, and is correlated with arterial lactate concentration. In theory, elevated base deficit and lactate concentrations after shock are related to oxygen transport imbalance at the cellular level. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that an elevated base deficit in trauma patients is indicative of impaired systemic oxygen utilization and portends poor outcomes.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database. The study population included all patients admitted to the trauma intensive care unit at a Level 1 trauma center during a 12-month period who were monitored with a pulmonary artery catheter and serial measurements of lactate and base deficit, and who achieved a normal arterial lactate concentration (< 2.2 mmol/L) with resuscitation. The patients were divided into those who maintained a persistently high base deficit (> or = 4 mmol/L) and those who achieved a low base deficit (< 4 mmol/L) during resuscitation.

RESULTS

One-hundred patients (mortality 20%) were monitored with a pulmonary artery catheter and achieved a normal arterial lactate concentration. The mean age+/-SD (SEM) of the group was 37+/-17 years and the Injury Severity Score was 25+/-11. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with a persistently high base deficit (n=26) had higher rates of multiple organ failure (35% versus 5%, p < 0.001) and death (50% versus 9%, p < 0.00001) compared with patients who achieved a low base deficit. Patients with a persistently high base deficit also had lower oxygen consumption (126+/-40 mL/m2 versus 156+/-30 mL/m2, p=0.01 at 48 hours) and a lower oxygen utilization coefficient (0.20+/-0.05 versus 0.24+/-0.03, p=0.01 at 48 hours) compared with patients with a low base deficit. At 48 hours, both oxygen consumption (r=-0.44, [r, correlation coefficient] p=0.002) and oxygen utilization (r=-0.46, p=0.001) had a significant negative correlation with base deficit.

CONCLUSIONS

In trauma patients, a persistently high arterial base deficit is associated with altered oxygen utilization and an increased risk of multiple organ failure and mortality. Serial monitoring of base deficit may be useful in assessing the adequacy of oxygen transport and resuscitation.

A C-terminal motif found in the beta2-adrenergic receptor, P2Y1 receptor and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator determines binding to the Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factor family of PDZ proteins

The Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF) binds to the tail of the beta2-adrenergic receptor and plays a role in adrenergic regulation of Na+/H+ exchange. NHERF contains two PDZ domains, the first of which is required for its interaction with the beta2 receptor. Mutagenesis studies of the beta2 receptor tail revealed that the optimal C-terminal motif for binding to the first PDZ domain of NHERF is D-S/T-x-L, a motif distinct from those recognized by other PDZ domains. The first PDZ domain of NHERF-2, a protein that is 52% identical to NHERF and also known as E3KARP, SIP-1, and TKA-1, exhibits binding preferences very similar to those of the first PDZ domain of NHERF. The delineation of the preferred binding motif for the first PDZ domain of the NHERF family of proteins allows for predictions for other proteins that may interact with NHERF or NHERF-2. For example, as would be predicted from the beta2 receptor tail mutagenesis studies, NHERF binds to the tail of the purinergic P2Y1 receptor, a seven-transmembrane receptor with an intracellular C-terminal tail ending in D-T-S-L. NHERF also binds to the tail of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, which ends in D-T-R-L. Because the preferred binding motif of the first PDZ domain of the NHERF family of proteins is found at the C termini of a variety of intracellular proteins, NHERF and NHERF-2 may be multifunctional adaptor proteins involved in many previously unsuspected aspects of intracellular signaling.

Direct luteinizing hormone action triggers adrenocortical tumorigenesis in castrated mice transgenic for the murine inhibin alpha-subunit promoter/simian virus 40 T-antigen fusion gene

Transgenic (TG) mice, expressing the Simian Virus 40 T-antigen (Tag) under a 6-kb fragment of the murine inhibin alpha-subunit promoter (inh alpha p), develop gonadal tumors of granulosa/theca or Leydig cell origin. We showed previously that adrenocortical tumors develop if the TG mice are gonadectomized but never develop in intact animals. However, if functional gonadectomy was induced by GnRH antagonist treatment or by cross-breeding the TG mice into the hypogonadotropic hpg genetic background, neither gonadal nor adrenal tumors appeared. Since the most obvious difference between the gonadectomized and GnRH-antagonist-treated or Tag/hpg double mutant mice is the elevated gonadotropin secretion in the first group, we examined whether the adrenal tumorigenesis would be gonadotropin-dependent. Surprisingly, both the adrenal tumors and a cell line (C alpha 1) derived from one of them expressed highly functional LH receptors (LHR), as assessed by Northern hybridization, immunocytochemistry, ligand binding, and human CG (hCG)-stimulated cAMP and steroid production. No FSH receptor expression was found in the adrenal tumors by RT-PCR. hCG treatment of the C alpha 1 cells stimulated their proliferation, as measured by [3H]thymidine incorporation. This effect was related to hCG-stimulated steroidogenesis since progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol, at physiological concentrations, also stimulated the C alpha 1 cell proliferation. Different adrenocortical cells expressed initially LHR and Tag, whereas both were highly expressed in the tumor cells. In conclusion, the high level of functional LHR in the adrenal tumors indicates that this receptor can function as tumor promoter when ectopically expressed and stimulated by the ligand hormone.

A missense mutation in the BRCA2 gene in three siblings with ovarian cancer

Inherited susceptibility to ovarian cancer has been associated with germline defects at several loci. The major known ovarian cancer susceptibility gene is BRCA1 on chromosome 17q, which confers a risk of approximately 60% by the age of 70 years. Truncating mutations in BRCA2 on chromosome 13q also predispose to ovarian cancer, although they confer a lower risk than mutations in BRCA1. We have studied the molecular basis of ovarian cancer predisposition in a Finnish family with three affected sisters. Analysis of polymorphic markers provided evidence against linkage to BRCA1, but the sibship was consistent with linkage to BRCA2. Conformation-sensitive gel electrophoresis was used to screen the entire coding sequence of BRCA2. A G to A transition at nucleotide 8702 was observed, which is predicted to convert glycine 2901 to aspartate in the encoded protein. This sequence variant was not detected in 220 cancer-free Finnish control individuals, or in several hundred cancer families of many nationalities previously screened for BRCA2 mutations. Taken together with the fact that this amino acid residue and the surrounding region of BRCA2 is identical in mouse and chicken, the data suggest that this alteration is a disease-causing BRCA2 missense mutation. Previously published data indicate that the risks of breast and ovarian cancer conferred by BRCA2-truncating mutations varies with the position of the mutation in the gene. The missense mutation reported here suggests that the BRCA2 domain including and surrounding glycine 2901 may be more important in preventing neoplastic transformation in ovarian epithelium than in breast epithelium.

The health of Australian children and young adults: recent statistics

The lack of reliable national statistics to monitor the health of Australian children and youths is well recognised (Commonwealth Department of Human Services and Health 1995). There is a clear need to develop this information through a nationally integrated and coordinated approach. The best way to achieve this would be to scope the fields of child and youth health information, identify data gaps and deficiencies, and catalogue the data requirements and needs. The framework within which this should occur, accompanied by a national child and youth health information development plan, also needs to be clearly defined. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is undertaking an analysis of the health of Australian children and youths and a review of available information in this area. Here we present early work on this project, providing a general picture of the health of Australian children and youths based on mortality, morbidity, reported health status and disability statistics. Some information on the health of indigenous children and young people is also included.

Use of integral and differential methods for the determination of L-dopa in pure form and pharmaceutical preparations

A new simple and selective kinetic method for the determination of L-dopa, using differential and integral methods, is described. The spectrophotometric measurements were recorded by measuring the increase in absorbance at 300 nm. The concentration range was valid from 5-35 ppm. The complex ratio showed a (1:2) of L-dopa with respect to sodium hydroxide, with formation constant 5.06 x 10(6) and molar absorptivity of 3.85 x 10(3) l mol-1 cm-1.

The familial Wilms' tumour susceptibility gene, FWT1, may not be a tumour suppressor gene

A familial Wilms' tumour susceptibility gene, known as FWT1, has recently been localised to chromosome 17q12-q21 by genetic linkage analysis. Four Wilms' tumours from a family showing strong evidence of linkage to FWT1 were examined for allele loss using polymorphic microsatellite markers on chromosome 17q. In three tumours no loss of heterozygosity was observed. In the remaining case, loss of heterozygosity was detected at all markers analysed. However, the alleles lost in this Wilms' tumour were those segregating with the disease in the family. This is in contrast to the usual pattern observed in familial cancer syndromes, where the allele lost in tumours arising in gene carriers is the wild type inherited from the non mutation carrying parent. Taken together with previous data indicating that LOH on chromosome 17q is rare in sporadic Wilms' tumour, the results suggest that FWT1 is not a tumour suppressor gene. Moreover, loss of alleles linked to the disease and the implied absence of the mutated susceptibility gene in one tumour, suggests that a mutation in FWT1 may be necessary for the initiation of some familial Wilms' tumours but subsequently the maintenance of the neoplastic phenotype becomes independent of the FWT1 mutation.

Evidence for a familial Wilms' tumour gene (FWT1) on chromosome 17q12-q21

Wilms' tumour (WT) is one of the most common solid tumours of childhood, occurring in 1 in 10,000 children and accounting for 8% of childhood cancers. It is believed to result from malignant transformation of abnormally persistent renal stem cells (nephrogenic rests) which retain embryonic differentiation potential. Although WT is usually sporadic, approximately one percent occur in families in which susceptibility appears to be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with incomplete penetrance. Predisposition to other cancers or to the developmental abnormalities associated with sporadic WT is not usually apparent in WT families. The WT1 gene at 11p13 (ref.2), and additional genes on chromosomes 11p15 (ref. 3) and 16q (ref. 4) have been implicated in the development of WT but are not responsible for familial WT. We have carried out a genome linkage search in a large Canadian family with seven confirmed cases of WT. Our results provide strong evidence for the localisation of a familial WT predisposition gene, FWT1, to an 18-centimorgan (cM) interval on chromosome 17q12-q21.

Multiloculated hydrocephalus related to cerebrospinal fluid shunt infection

This study is an attempt to establish that CSF shunt infection has a role in the aetiology of multiloculated hydrocephalus. The authors carried out a review of 12 cases of multiloculated hydrocephalus who were treated at King Khalid University Hospital between 1988-1994. The multiloculation appears to have developed following the shunt infection in all cases. The hydrocephalus was related to an intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) in 9 patients and was congenital in 2 patients and post-meningitic in 1 patient. The shunt infection was caused by a gram-negative organism in 8 patients and duration of external ventricular drainage ranged from 9-24 (median 13) days. The diagnosis of multiloculated hydrocephalus was made on average 2 months after the shunt infection. In three patients endoscopic fenestration of intraventricular septations was attempted but was effective in only one case. The other patients were managed by two shunts (9 patients) and three shunts (2 patients). At a mean follow-up of 15 months, the shunt revision rate of the patients was 0.4/year. One patient died of multiple brain abscesses and 6 patients remain severely disabled. The poor outcome may also be related to the original IVH as well as the multiloculated hydrocephalus. The study also shows that patients with post-haemorrhagic hydrocephalus, who develop a shunt infection due to gram-negative organisms and in whom the CSF fails to be cleared of the infection following 12 days of external drainage appear to be at risk of developing multiloculated hydrocephalus.

Hand washing with soap reduces diarrhoea and spread of bacterial pathogens in a Bangladesh village

Hand washing with soap and water can prevent the spread of diarrhoeal diseases in areas where comparatively costly interventions, such as supply of safe water and improved sanitation, are not possible. In this study, the practice of hand washing with soap and water was instituted in a periurban slum of Dhaka city, and the surveillance for diarrhoea sustained for a one-year period. Rates of primary and secondary attacks were compared to those of a non-intervention area similar in age structure, economic status, education, and other relevant variables. Rectal swabs of cases and contacts established aetiologies. There was a large (2.6 fold) reduction in diarrhoeal episodes in the intervention area during the observation period. Rates of bacterial pathogens were also lower in the intervention area. Significant reduction in diarrhoeal incidences was observed in all age groups for all pathogens except for rotavirus. These observations if implemented as health policy could reduce the spread of diarrhoeal diseases at low cost in high risk areas.