Differential expression of miRNA in histological subtype of Wilms tumor

Circulating microRNA profiles in Wilms tumour (WT): A systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy

Background

Wilms tumour (WT) is caused by aberrant embryonic kidney development and associated with dysregulated expression of short, non-protein-coding RNAs termed microRNAs (miRNAs). At present, there is no reliable circulating biomarker of WT, and this remains an urgent unmet clinical need. Such biomarkers may assist diagnosis, subtyping/prognostication, and disease-monitoring. Here, we established the list of dysregulated circulating miRNAs in WT from the existing published literature.

Methods

Regardless of publication date, PubMed, Scopus, Web-of-Science, and Wiley online library databases were searched for English/French studies on WT circulating miRNAs. The PRISMA-compliant search was registered in PROSPERO. The QUADAS tool measured retained article quality. The meta-analysis assessed the sensitivity and specificity of miRNAs for WT diagnosis.

Results

Qualitative analysis included 280 samples (172 WT patients; 108 healthy controls) from five of 450 published articles. The study uncovered 301 dysregulated miRNAs (144 up-regulated, 143 down-regulated, 14 conflicting). The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of the 49 significantly dysregulated microRNAs from two studies was 0.67 [0.62; 0.73], 0.95 [0.92; 0.96] and 0.77 [0.73; 0.81] respectively, indicating a stronger diagnostic potential for WT.

Conclusions

Circulating miRNAs show promise for WT diagnosis and prognosis. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine associations with tumour stage/subtype.

Prospero registration number

CRD42022301597.

Evaluation and management of "low" anorectal malformation in male children: an observational study

PURPOSE

ARM with perineal fistula has been traditionally defined as low ARM (LARM). This study was conducted to evaluate LARM in male patients with an emphasis on the role of various factors on the outcome and follow-up of them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was a retrospective cohort study. The clinical presentation, associated anomalies, and complications were assessed. The operative procedures included cutback anoplasty and others. The patients were followed in the outpatient department. The complications were assessed and managed accordingly.

RESULTS

During the study period of 8 years, 301 patients were admitted. The complaints included absent or abnormal anal opening, abdominal distension, constipation, and peritonitis. Most of the children (n = 214) presented in the neonatal period. The most common clinical presentation was the perineal fistula. The most common associated anomaly was urologic. Fourteen patients were referred from other centers after complications. The most common problem in follow-up was constipation.

CONCLUSION

LARM in male patients may have a diverse presentation. The associated anomalies need proper assessment. Awareness may avoid delayed presentation and unwanted complications. When managed by an expert, the condition can be effectively managed. Regular follow-up is important.