Clinical practice guidelines for the care of girls and women with Turner syndrome

Turner syndrome (TS) affects 50 per 100 000 females. TS affects multiple organs through all stages of life, necessitating multidisciplinary care. This guideline extends previous ones and includes important new advances, within diagnostics and genetics, estrogen treatment, fertility, co-morbidities, and neurocognition and neuropsychology. Exploratory meetings were held in 2021 in Europe and United States culminating with a consensus meeting in Aarhus, Denmark in June 2023. Prior to this, eight groups addressed important areas in TS care: (1) diagnosis and genetics, (2) growth, (3) puberty and estrogen treatment, (4) cardiovascular health, (5) transition, (6) fertility assessment, monitoring, and counselling, (7) health surveillance for comorbidities throughout the lifespan, and (8) neurocognition and its implications for mental health and well-being. Each group produced proposals for the present guidelines, which were meticulously discussed by the entire group. Four pertinent questions were submitted for formal GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) evaluation with systematic review of the literature. The guidelines project was initiated by the European Society for Endocrinology and the Pediatric Endocrine Society, in collaboration with members from the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, the European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions, the Society for Endocrinology, and the European Society of Cardiology, Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, Australia and New Zealand Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Latin American Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, Arab Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, and the Asia Pacific Pediatric Endocrine Society. Advocacy groups appointed representatives for pre-meeting discussions and the consensus meeting.

Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy on Bone Mineral Density in Korean Adults With Turner Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Turner syndrome (TS) is a common chromosomal abnormality, which is caused by loss of all or part of one X chromosome. Hormone replacement therapy in TS is important in terms of puberty, growth and prevention of osteoporosis however, such a study has never been conducted in Korea. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to determine relationship between the starting age, duration of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) in TS and develop a hormone replacement protocol suitable for the situation in Korea.

METHODS

This is retrospective study analyzed the medical records in TS patients treated at the Severance hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea from 1997 to 2019. Total of 188 subjects who had received a bone density test at least once were included in the study. Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) was used for achieving bone mineral density (BMD) of normal control group. Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, ANOVA and correlation analysis were performed using SPSS 18.0.

RESULTS

Each BMD measurement was significantly lower in women with TS than in healthy Korean women. Early start and longer duration of ERT is associated with higher lumbar spine BMD but not femur neck BMD. Femur neck BMD, but not lumbar spine BMD was significantly higher in women with mosaicism than 45XO group.

CONCLUSION

Early onset and appropriate duration of hormone replacement therapy is important for increasing bone mineral density in patients with Turner syndrome. Also, ERT affects differently to TS patients according to mosaicism.

Association of chromosomal abnormalities with prenatal exposure to heavy metals: A nested case-control study in high-risk pregnant women in China

Prenatal exposure to heavy metals causes multiple hazards to fetal growth and development. Epidemiological studies on the association between heavy metals and fetal chromosomal abnormalities (CAs) are lacking. We conducted a nested case-control study in a cohort of high-risk pregnant women in China from September 2018 to June 2021. A total of 387 participants were diagnosed with fetal CAs in the case group and 699 were diagnosed with a normal karyotype in the control group. Amniotic fluid concentrations of 10 metals (barium, cobalt, antimony, manganese, ferrum, copper, selenium, strontium, vanadium, and chromium) were measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. We applied quantile g-computation and weighted quantile sum regression to assess the overall effect of metal mixtures and identify metals with significant weight. Logistic and Poisson regression analyses were used to estimate the effects of metals on CAs and CAs subtypes. Our results showed that the metal mixture concentrations were positively associated with the risk of fetal CAs. In adjusted logistic models, Sb was associated with fetal CAs (OR=1.15, 95% CI: 1.02-1.30), and revealed a linear dose-response relationship between Sb level and the risk of fetal CAs. Additionally, the exploratory analysis revealed that Sb levels were associated with Klinefelter syndrome (OR=1.452, 95% CI: 1.063-1.984) and Turner syndrome (OR=1.698; 95% CI,1.048-2.751). Our study revealed that metal mixtures are associated with a higher risk of fetal CAs and that this association may be driven primarily by Sb. Moreover, we provide a genetic perspective on the effects of heavy metals on sexual development in humans.

Incidence of sex chromosome aneuploidy in a prenatal population: 27-year longitudinal study in Northern Italy

OBJECTIVES

The availability of cell-free (cf) DNA as a prenatal screening tool affords an opportunity for non-invasive identification of sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA). The aims of this longitudinal study were to investigate the evolution and frequency of both invasive prenatal diagnostic testing, using amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and the detection of SCA in cfDNA samples from a large unselected cohort in Northern Italy.

METHODS

The results of genetic testing from CVS and amniotic fluid samples received from public and private centers in Italy from 1995 to 2021 were collected. Chromosomal analysis was performed by routine Q-banding karyotype. Regression analyses and descriptive statistics were used to determine population data trends regarding the frequency of prenatal diagnostic testing and the identification of SCA, and these were compared with the changes in indication for prenatal diagnostic tests and available screening options.

RESULTS

Over a period of 27 years, there were 13 939 526 recorded births and 231 227 invasive procedures were performed, resulting in the prenatal diagnosis of 933 SCAs. After the commercial introduction of cfDNA use in 2015, the frequency of invasive procedures decreased significantly (P = 0.03), while the frequency of prenatal SCA detection increased significantly (P = 0.007). Between 2016 and 2021, a high-risk cfDNA result was the indication for 31.4% of detected sex chromosome trisomies, second only to advanced maternal age.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the inclusion of SCA in prenatal cfDNA screening tests can increase the prenatal diagnosis of affected individuals. As the benefits of early ascertainment are increasingly recognized, it is essential that healthcare providers are equipped with comprehensive and evidence-based information regarding the associated phenotypic differences and the availability of targeted effective interventions to improve neurodevelopmental and health outcomes for affected individuals. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Associations of psychiatric disorders with sex chromosome aneuploidies in the Danish iPSYCH2015 dataset: a case-cohort study

BACKGROUND

Increased prevalence of mental illness has been reported in clinical studies of sex chromosome aneuploidies, but accurate population-based estimates of the prevalence and clinical detection rate of sex chromosome aneuploidies and the associated risks of psychiatric disorders are needed. In this study, we provide such estimates, valid for children and young adults of the contemporary Danish population.

METHODS

We used the iPSYCH2015 case-cohort dataset, which is based on a source population of single-born individuals born in Denmark between May 1, 1981, and Dec 31, 2008. The case sample comprises all individuals from the source population with a diagnosis of any index psychiatric disorder (schizophrenia spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, autism spectrum disorder, or ADHD) by the end of follow-up (Dec 31, 2015), registered in the hospital-based Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register. The cohort consists of individuals randomly selected from the source population, and overlaps with the case sample. Biobanked blood samples for individuals in the case and cohort samples underwent genotyping and quality-control filtering, after which we analysed microarray data to detect sex chromosome aneuploidy karyotypes (45,X, 47,XXX, 47,XXY, and 47,XYY). We estimated the population-valid prevalence of these karyotypes from the cohort sample. Weighted Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the risks of each index psychiatric disorder associated with each sex chromosome aneuploidy karyotype, by use of date of first hospitalisation with the index disorder in the respective case group and the cohort as outcome. The clinical detection rate was determined by comparing records of clinical diagnoses of genetic conditions from the Danish National Patient Register with sex chromosome aneuploidy karyotype determined by our study.

FINDINGS

The assessed sample comprised 119 481 individuals (78 726 in the case sample and 43 326 in the cohort) who had genotyped and quality-control-filtered blood samples, including 64 533 (54%) people of gonadal male sex and 54 948 (46%) of gonadal female sex. Age during follow-up ranged from 0 to 34·7 years (mean 10·9 years [SD 3·5 years]). Information on ethnicity was not available. We identified 387 (0·3%) individuals as carriers of sex chromosome aneuploidies. The overall prevalence of sex chromosome aneuploidies was 1·5 per 1000 individuals. Each sex chromosome aneuploidy karyotype was associated with an increased risk of at least one index psychiatric disorder, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 2·20 (95% CI 1·42-3·39) for 47,XXY; 2·73 (1·25-6·00) for 47,XXX; 3·56 (1·01-12·53) for 45,X; and 4·30 (2·48-7·55) for 47,XYY. All karyotypes were associated with an increased risk of ADHD (HRs ranging from 1·99 [1·24-3·19] to 6·15 [1·63-23·19]), autism spectrum disorder (2·72 [1·72-4·32] to 8·45 [2·49-28·61]), and schizophrenia spectrum disorder (1·80 [1·15-2·80] to 4·60 [1·57-13·51]). Increased risk of major depressive disorder was found for individuals with 47,XXY (1·88 [1·07-3·33]) and 47,XYY (2·65 [1·12-5·90]), and of bipolar disorder for those with 47,XXX (4·32 [1·12-16·62]). The proportion of sex chromosome aneuploidy carriers who had been clinically diagnosed was 93% for 45,X, but lower for 47,XXY (22%), 47,XXX (15%), and 47,XYY (15%). Among carriers, the risk of diagnosis of at least one index psychiatric disorder did not significantly differ between those who had and had not been clinically diagnosed with sex chromosome aneuploidies (p=0·65).

INTERPRETATION

Increased risks of psychiatric disorders associated with sex chromosome aneuploidies, combined with low rates of clinical diagnosis of sex chromosome aneuploidies, compromise the adequate provision of necessary health care and counselling to affected individuals and their families, which might be helped by increased application of genetic testing in clinical settings.

FUNDING

Lundbeck Foundation and National Institutes of Health.

Multicenter clinical experience with non-invasive cell-free DNA screening for monosomy X and related X-chromosome variants

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate how the presence of fetal anomalies and different X chromosome variants influences Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening results for monosomy X.

METHODS

From a multicenter retrospective survey on 673 pregnancies with prenatally suspected or confirmed Turner syndrome, we analyzed the subgroup for which prenatal cfDNA screening and karyotype results were available. A cfDNA screening result was defined as true positive (TP) when confirmatory testing showed 45,X or an X-chromosome variant.

RESULTS

We had cfDNA results, karyotype, and phenotype data for 55 pregnancies. cfDNA results were high risk for monosomy X in 48/55, of which 23 were TP and 25 were false positive (FP). 32/48 high-risk cfDNA cases did not show fetal anomalies. Of these, 7 were TP. All were X-chromosome variants. All 16 fetuses with high-risk cfDNA result and ultrasound anomalies were TP. Of fetuses with abnormalities, those with 45,X more often had fetal hydrops/cystic hygroma, whereas those with "variant" karyotypes had different anomalies.

CONCLUSION

Both, 45,X or X-chromosome variants can be detected after a high-risk cfDNA result for monosomy X. When there are fetal anomalies, the result is more likely a TP. In the absence of fetal anomalies, it is most often an FP or X-chromosome variant.

Turner syndrome-omphalocele association: Incidence, karyotype, phenotype and fetal outcome

OBJECTIVE

Omphalocele is known to be associated with genetic anomalies like trisomy 13, 18 and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, but not with Turner syndrome (TS). Our aim was to assess the incidence of omphalocele in fetuses with TS, the phenotype of this association with other anomalies, their karyotype, and the fetal outcomes.

METHOD

Retrospective multicenter study of fetuses with confirmed diagnosis of TS. Data were extracted from a detailed questionnaire sent to specialists in prenatal ultrasound.

RESULTS

680 fetuses with TS were included in this analysis. Incidence of small omphalocele in fetuses diagnosed ≥12 weeks was 3.1%. Including fetuses diagnosed before 12 weeks, it was 5.1%. 97.1% (34/35) of the affected fetuses had one or more associated anomalies including increased nuchal translucency (≥3 mm) and/or cystic hygroma (94.3%), hydrops/skin edema (71.1%), and cardiac anomalies (40%). The karyotype was 45,X in all fetuses. Fetal outcomes were poor with only 1 fetus born alive.

CONCLUSION

TS with 45,X karyotype but not with X chromosome variants is associated with small omphalocele. Most of these fetuses have associated anomalies and a poor prognosis. Our data suggest an association of TS with omphalocele, which is evident from the first trimester.

Prenatal phenotype of 47, XXY (Klinefelter syndrome)

OBJECTIVE

There is a paucity of knowledge regarding the prenatal presentation of Klinefelter syndrome, or 47, XXY. Accurate prenatal counseling is critical and in utero diagnosis is currently limited by a poor understanding of the prenatal phenotype of this condition.

METHODS

This is a case series of fetuses with cytogenetically confirmed 47, XXY in the prenatal period or up to age 5 years, with prenatal records available for review from four academic institutions between 2006 and 2019. Ultrasound reports were reviewed in detail to assess for increased nuchal translucency and structural abnormalities. Additionally, we reviewed results of cell-free DNA and serum analyte testing when performed to inform our understanding of the detection of fetal 47, XXY through standard genetic screening tests.

RESULTS

Forty-one cases with confirmed cytogenetic diagnosis of 47, XXY and prenatal records available for review were identified: 37 had a prenatal diagnosis and 4 had a postnatal diagnosis. Nuchal translucency was increased ≥3.0 mm in 23.1% (6/26) of cases with a documented measurement. In 29.2% (7/24) of cases with a second trimester anatomical ultrasound available for review, a fetal abnormality was identified (3 brain anomalies, 1 cardiac abnormality, 1 echogenic bowel, and 2 limb abnormalities). Among those who had cell-free DNA and serum analytes performed, 92.6% (25/27) and 36.3% (4/11) had an abnormal result respectively.

CONCLUSION

This case series expands our knowledge of the prenatal presentation of 47, XXY by identifying first and second trimester fetal sonographic abnormalities. Prenatal identification of this condition enables accurate counseling, focused prenatal management, and early postnatal interventions to ameliorate some of the known complications.

The Changing Face of Turner Syndrome

Turner syndrome (TS) is a condition in females missing the second sex chromosome (45,X) or parts thereof. It is considered a rare genetic condition and is associated with a wide range of clinical stigmata, such as short stature, ovarian dysgenesis, delayed puberty and infertility, congenital malformations, endocrine disorders, including a range of autoimmune conditions and type 2 diabetes, and neurocognitive deficits. Morbidity and mortality are clearly increased compared with the general population and the average age at diagnosis is quite delayed. During recent years it has become clear that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary toward the patient with TS. A number of clinical advances has been implemented, and these are reviewed. Our understanding of the genomic architecture of TS is advancing rapidly, and these latest developments are reviewed and discussed. Several candidate genes, genomic pathways and mechanisms, including an altered transcriptome and epigenome, are also presented.

Trends in the prevalence, prenatal diagnosis, and outcomes of births with chromosomal abnormalities: a hospital-based study in Zhejiang Province, China during 2014-2020

BACKGROUND

To investigate the prevalence and prenatal diagnosis rate of chromosomal abnormalities (CA) in Zhejiang Province, China.

METHODS

We estimated the annual changes in the detected prevalence of CA and prenatal diagnosis rate among 681,590 births in Zhejiang Province, China, between 2014 and 2020. Data were derived from the provincial birth defects surveillance system, which represents 30% of annual births in Zhejiang Province. The effect of maternal age was also evaluated.

RESULTS

The detected prevalence of sex chromosomal abnormalities (1.70-7.30 per 10,000 births, P_trend < 0.001) and microdeletion and microduplication (0.30-6.81 per 10,000 births, P_trend < 0.001) gradually increased, contributing to an upward trend in overall CA (12.09-39.22 per 10,000 births). The diagnosis rate before 22 gestational weeks constantly increased from 20.8 to 70.1% for trisomy 21 (P_trend = 0.003). The prevalence rate ratio for maternal age of ≥ 35 years was higher than that for maternal age of 25-29 years for trisomy 21 (5.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.59-6.35) and sex chromosomal abnormalities (3.28, 95% CI 2.48-4.33).

CONCLUSIONS

The rising prevalence of CA in China may be attributable to the elevated maternal age and the innovation of prenatal diagnosis tools, Thus, studies should pay attention to the rare CA that were previously ignored, and select rational screening tools.

Resting-state functional connectivity in adults with 47,XXX: a 7 Tesla MRI study

Triple X syndrome is a sex chromosomal aneuploidy characterized by the presence of a supernumerary X chromosome, resulting in a karyotype of 47,XXX in affected females. It has been associated with a variable cognitive, behavioral, and psychiatric phenotype, but little is known about its effects on brain function. We therefore conducted 7 T resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and compared data of 19 adult individuals with 47,XXX and 21 age-matched healthy control women using independent component analysis and dual regression. Additionally, we examined potential relationships between social cognition and social functioning scores, and IQ, and mean functional connectivity values. The 47,XXX group showed significantly increased functional connectivity of the fronto-parietal resting-state network with the right postcentral gyrus. Resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) variability was not associated with IQ and social cognition and social functioning deficits in the participants with 47,XXX. We thus observed an effect of a supernumerary X chromosome in adult women on fronto-parietal rsFC. These findings provide additional insight into the role of the X chromosome on functional connectivity of the brain. Further research is needed to understand the clinical implications of altered rsFC in 47,XXX.

Is Fetal Hydrops in Turner Syndrome a Risk Factor for the Development of Maternal Mirror Syndrome?

Mirror syndrome is a rare and serious maternal condition associated with immune and non-immune fetal hydrops after 16 weeks of gestational age. Subjacent conditions associated with fetal hydrops may carry different risks for Mirror syndrome. Fetuses with Turner syndrome are frequently found to be hydropic on ultrasound. We designed a retrospective multicenter study to evaluate the risk for Mirror syndrome among pregnancies complicated with Turner syndrome and fetal hydrops. Data were extracted from a questionnaire sent to specialists in maternal fetal medicine in Germany. Out of 758 cases, 138 fulfilled our inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Of the included 138, 66 presented with persisting hydrops at or after 16 weeks. The frequency of placental hydrops/placentomegaly was rather low (8.1%). Of note, no Mirror syndrome was observed in our study cohort. We propose that the risk of this pregnancy complication varies according to the subjacent cause of fetal hydrops. In Turner syndrome, the risk for Mirror syndrome is lower than that reported in the literature. Our observations are relevant for clinical management and parental counseling.

Age at diagnosis in patients with chronic congenital endocrine conditions: a regional cohort study from a reference center for rare diseases

Background

For chronic congenital endocrine conditions, age at diagnosis is a key issue with implications for optimal management and psychological concerns. These conditions are associated with an increase in the risk of comorbid conditions, particularly as  it concerns growth, pubertal development and fertility potential. Clinical presentation and severity depend on the disorder and the patient’s age, but diagnosis is often late.

Objective

To evaluate age at diagnosis for the most frequent congenital endocrine diseases affecting growth and/or development.

Patients and Methods

This observational cohort study included all patients (n = 4379) with well-defined chronic congenital endocrine diseases—non-acquired isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD), isolated congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (ICHH), ectopic neurohypophysis (NH), Turner syndrome (TS), McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS), complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) and gonadal dysgenesis (GD)—included in the database of a single multisite reference center for rare endocrine growth and developmental disorders, over a period of 14 years. Patients with congenital hypothyroidism and adrenal hyperplasia were excluded as they are generally identified during neonatal screening.

Results

Median age at diagnosis depended on the disease: first year of life for GD, before the age of five years for ectopic NH and MAS, 8–10 years for IGHD, TS (11% diagnosed antenatally) and CAIS and 17.4 years for ICHH. One third of the patients were diagnosed before the age of five years. Diagnosis occurred in adulthood in 22% of cases for CAIS, 11.6% for TS, 8.8% for GD, 0.8% for ectopic NH, and 0.4% for IGHD. A male predominance (2/3) was observed for IGHD, ectopic NH, ICHH and GD.

Conclusion

The early recognition of growth/developmental failure during childhood is essential, to reduce time-to-diagnosis and improve outcomes.

Investigation on combined copy number variation sequencing and cytogenetic karyotyping for prenatal diagnosis

Background

We aimed to evaluate the clinical value of copy number variation-sequencing (CNV-Seq) in combination with cytogenetic karyotyping in prenatal diagnosis.

Methods

CNV-Seq and cytogenetic karyotyping were performed in parallel for 9452 prenatal samples for comparison of the diagnostic performance of the two methods, and to evaluate the screening performance of maternal age, maternal serum screening, fetal ultrasound scanning and noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for fetal pathogenic copy number variation (CNV).

Results

Among the 9452 prenatal samples, traditional karyotyping detected 704 cases (7.5%) of abnormal cytogenetic karyotypes, 171 (1.8%) chromosome polymorphism, 20 (0.2%) subtle structural variations, 74 (0.7%) mutual translocation (possibly balanced), 52 (0.6%) without karyotyping results, and 8431 (89.2%) normal cytogenetic karyotypes. Among the 8705 cases with normal karyotype, polymorphism, mutual translocation, or marker chromosome, CNV-Seq detected 63 cases (0.7%) of pathogenic chromosome microdeletion/duplication. Retrospectively, noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) had high sensitivity and specificity for the screening of fetal pathogenic CNV, and NIPT combining with maternal age, maternal serum screening or fetal ultrasound scanning, which improved the screening performance.

Conclusion

The combined application of cytogenetic karyotyping and CNV-Seq significantly improved the detection rate of fetal pathogenic chromosome microdeletion/duplication. NIPT was recommended for the screening of pathogenic chromosome microdeletion/duplication, and NIPT combining with other screening methods further improved the screening performance for pathogenic fetal CNV.

Noninvasive prenatal screening for fetal sex chromosome aneuploidies

INTRODUCTION

Sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs) are among the most common chromosome abnormalities observed in humans. Manifestations include low fertility, infertility, delayed language development, and dysfunction in motor development. Noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) based on cell-free fetal DNA from the peripheral blood of pregnant women is increasingly used for the screening of fetal chromosome abnormalities, including screening for fetal gender and fetal sex chromosome aneuploidy. A systematic review of the literature about NIPS for SCAs is needed.

AREAS COVERED

This review evaluated a vast array of published studies focusing on the clinical significance, detection methods, performance of NIPS for SCAs, and the management of positive SCA results following screening with the aim of facilitating a comprehensive and systematic understanding of NIPS for SCAs.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

Looking forward, NIPS is expected to become the primary screening test for common aneuploidies as well as other chromosome abnormalities, including some micro-deletions and micro-duplications, with the potential to transition from a screening test to a prenatal diagnosis method. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a safe and accurate method for increasing early diagnosis to improve long-term outcomes for the SCA patients and families by well- informed health care providers.

Chances and Challenges of New Genetic Screening Technologies (NIPT) in Prenatal Medicine from a Clinical Perspective: A Narrative Review

In 1959, 63 years after the death of John Langdon Down, Jérôme Lejeune discovered trisomy 21 as the genetic reason for Down syndrome. Screening for Down syndrome has been applied since the 1960s by using maternal age as the risk parameter. Since then, several advances have been made. First trimester screening, combining maternal age, maternal serum parameters and ultrasound findings, emerged in the 1990s with a detection rate (DR) of around 90-95% and a false positive rate (FPR) of around 5%, also looking for trisomy 13 and 18. With the development of high-resolution ultrasound, around 50% of fetal anomalies are now detected in the first trimester. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for trisomy 21, 13 and 18 is a highly efficient screening method and has been applied as a first-line or a contingent screening approach all over the world since 2012, in some countries without a systematic screening program. Concomitant with the rise in technology, the possibility of screening for other genetic conditions by analysis of cfDNA, such as sex chromosome anomalies (SCAs), rare autosomal anomalies (RATs) and microdeletions and duplications, is offered by different providers to an often not preselected population of pregnant women. Most of the research in the field is done by commercial providers, and some of the tests are on the market without validated data on test performance. This raises difficulties in the counseling process and makes it nearly impossible to obtain informed consent. In parallel with the advent of new screening technologies, an expansion of diagnostic methods has begun to be applied after invasive procedures. The karyotype has been the gold standard for decades. Chromosomal microarrays (CMAs) able to detect deletions and duplications on a submicroscopic level have replaced the conventional karyotyping in many countries. Sequencing methods such as whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) tremendously amplify the diagnostic yield in fetuses with ultrasound anomalies.

Social functioning and emotion recognition in adults with triple X syndrome

BACKGROUND

Triple X syndrome (TXS) is caused by aneuploidy of the X chromosome and is associated with impaired social functioning in children; however, its effect on social functioning and emotion recognition in adults is poorly understood.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate social functioning and emotion recognition in adults with TXS.

METHOD

This cross-sectional cohort study was designed to compare social functioning and emotion recognition between adults with TXS (n = 34) and an age-matched control group (n = 31). Social functioning was assessed with the Adult Behavior Checklist and Social Responsiveness Scale for Adults. Emotion recognition was assessed with the Emotion Recognition Task in the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. Differences were analysed by Mann-Whitney U-test.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, women with TXS scored higher on the Adult Behavior Checklist, including the Withdrawn scale (P < 0.001, effect size 0.4) and Thought Problems scale (P < 0.001, effect size 0.4); and higher on the Social Responsiveness Scale for Adults, indicating impaired social functioning (P < 0.001, effect size 0.5). In addition, women with TXS performed worse on the Emotion Recognition Task, particularly with respect to recognising sadness (P < 0.005, effect size 0.4), fear (P < 0.01, effect size 0.4) and disgust (P < 0.02, effect size 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that adults with TXS have a higher prevalence of impaired social functioning and emotion recognition. These results highlight the relevance of sex chromosome aneuploidy as a potential model for studying disorders characterised by social impairments such as autism spectrum disorder, particularly among women.

The influence of growth hormone therapy on the cardiovascular system in Turner syndrome

Short stature, ovarian dysgenesis, infertility, and cardiovascular malformations are classic features in Turner syndrome (TS), but the phenotypical spectrum is wide. Through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, TS patients have a chance to achieve satisfactory adult height and sexual development. The doses of recombinant growth hormone (rGH) used are usually higher than the substitution dose. The safety aspects of this therapy are very important, especially in terms of the cardiovascular system. The presented study aimed to analyze how the rGH therapy may influence the cardiovascular system in TS based on current literature data. We conducted a systematic search for studies related to TS, cardiovascular system, and rGH therapy. The results show that rGH seems to have a positive effect on lipid parameters, reducing the risk of ischemic disease. It is additionally optimized by estradiol therapy. Although rGH may increase insulin resistance, the metabolic derangement is rare, probably due to lower fat content and an increase in lean body mass. Several studies showed that rGH treatment could cause aorta widening or increase the aorta growth rate. IGF-1 can be independently associated with increased aortic diameters. The studies analyzing the impact of GH on blood pressure show conflicting data. The proper cardiovascular imaging before and during rGH treatment and detecting the known risk factors for aorta dissection in every individual is very important. The long-term effects of growth hormone treatment on the heart and arteries are still not available and clearly estimated and have to be monitored in the future.

Evaluating the Scope of Language Impairments in a Patient with Triple X Syndrome: A Brief Report

The phenotype of triple X syndrome comprises a variety of physical, psychiatric, and cognitive features. Recent evidence suggests that patients are prone to severe language impairments. However, it remains unclear whether verbal impairments are pervasive at all levels of language, or whether one domain is relatively more spared than others. Here we document the language profile of one patient with triple X, using standardized language tests and reports. Results concur in showing that impairments are noticeable both in expressive and receptive language skills, and in vocabulary as well as in structural components of language. Although receptive ability in some tests appears relatively spared, even here A's performance is clearly below average. This single case study further underscores that language and communication at all levels can be severely compromised in patients with triple X. Practitioners should be aware of the limited language abilities that possibly exist in patients with triple X.

The epidemiology of sex chromosome abnormalities

Sex chromosome abnormalities (SCAs) are characterized by gain or loss of entire sex chromosomes or parts of sex chromosomes with the best-known syndromes being Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, 47,XXX syndrome, and 47,XYY syndrome. Since these syndromes were first described more than 60 years ago, several papers have reported on diseases and health related problems, neurocognitive deficits, and social challenges among affected persons. However, the generally increased comorbidity burden with specific comorbidity patterns within and across syndromes as well as early death of affected persons was not recognized until the last couple of decades, where population-based epidemiological studies were undertaken. Moreover, these epidemiological studies provided knowledge of an association between SCAs and a negatively reduced socioeconomic status in terms of education, income, retirement, cohabitation with a partner and parenthood. This review is on the aspects of epidemiology in Turner, Klinefelter, 47,XXX and 47,XYY syndrome.

Epigenetic and transcriptomic consequences of excess X-chromosome material in 47,XXX syndrome-A comparison with Turner syndrome and 46,XX females

47,XXX (triple X) and Turner syndrome (45,X) are sex chromosomal abnormalities with detrimental effects on health with increased mortality and morbidity. In karyotypical normal females, X-chromosome inactivation balances gene expression between sexes and upregulation of the X chromosome in both sexes maintain stoichiometry with the autosomes. In 47,XXX and Turner syndrome a gene dosage imbalance may ensue from increased or decreased expression from the genes that escape X inactivation, as well as from incomplete X chromosome inactivation in 47,XXX. We aim to study genome-wide DNA-methylation and RNA-expression changes can explain phenotypic traits in 47,XXX syndrome. We compare DNA-methylation and RNA-expression data derived from white blood cells of seven women with 47,XXX syndrome, with data from seven female controls, as well as with seven women with Turner syndrome (45,X). To address these questions, we explored genome-wide DNA-methylation and transcriptome data in blood from seven females with 47,XXX syndrome, seven females with Turner syndrome, and seven karyotypically normal females (46,XX). Based on promoter methylation, we describe a demethylation of six X-chromosomal genes (AMOT, HTR2C, IL1RAPL2, STAG2, TCEANC, ZNF673), increased methylation for GEMIN8, and four differentially methylated autosomal regions related to four genes (SPEG, MUC4, SP6, and ZNF492). We illustrate how these changes seem compensated at the transcriptome level although several genes show differential exon usage. In conclusion, our results suggest an impact of the supernumerary X chromosome in 47,XXX syndrome on the methylation status of selected genes despite an overall comparable expression profile.

Sex Hormone Replacement Therapy in Turner Syndrome: Impact on Morbidity and Mortality

CONTEXT

The long-term effects of female hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in Turner syndrome (TS) are unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To examine morbidity, mortality and medicinal use in TS and the impact of HRT in 45,X women.

DESIGN AND SETTING

National cohort study, following all TS individuals ever diagnosed in Denmark from 1977 to 2014.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the Danish Cytogenetic Central Registry, we identified 1156 females diagnosed with TS from 1960 to 2014, and, subsequently, Statistics Denmark randomly identified 115 577 age-matched female controls. TS women and their matched controls were linked with person-level data from the National Patient Registry and the Medication Statistics Registry, and they were compared concerning mortality, hospitalizations, and medical prescriptions. Among 329 45,X women, 44 had never been HRT treated, and 285 had been treated at some point. HRT treated women were compared with untreated concerning mortality, hospitalizations, and medical prescriptions.

RESULTS

Endocrine and cardiovascular mortality and morbidity were significantly increased in TS compared with the matched controls. Comparing HRT treated with nontreated 45,X women, we found a similar mortality (hazard ratio 0.83, 95% confidence interval 0.38-1.79). Among the HRT-treated 45,X women, we found a significantly lower use of antihypertensives, antidiabetics, and thyroid hormones and significantly reduced hospitalization rates for stroke and osteoporotic fractures.

CONCLUSION

Women with TS have an increased overall mortality and morbidity. HRT seems to have a beneficial effect on endocrine conditions, hypertension, and stroke in women with 45,X karyotype, with no clear impact on mortality.

Care of adult women with Turner syndrome: the state of affairs in Germany

In this commentary, we discuss the state of affairs concerning the clinical care of females with Turner syndrome (TS) in Germany. TS is a rare disease and new international guidelines describe an appropriate setup for optimal clinical care. Several countries have implemented a program with centralized adult Turner syndrome clinics, which are now found in France, Denmark, the Netherlands, Sweden, parts of England and possibly other countries, but hitherto not in Germany. Such an approach should ensure the availability of high quality multi-disciplinary care for all women with TS to be treated and to detect all the conditions that have been associated with TS, which typically appear at odd times during the lifetime of a female with TS. Care should be offered at no added cost for the patient, and treatment with relevant drugs should be available at reasonable cost for the individual patient. Currently, it is quite problematic that many female sex hormone preparations are not available at low cost in a number of countries. Additional problems include supply chain issue which lead to patients not being able to buy their usual drug for a certain period of time. We think it is timely that countries improve the care for individuals with rare conditions, such as TS.

Live-Born Major Congenital Heart Disease in Denmark: Incidence, Detection Rate, and Termination of Pregnancy Rate From 1996 to 2013

Importance

The occurrence of major congenital heart disease (CHD) is affected by several variables. Determining the development of the true incidence is critical to the establishment of proper treatment of these patients.

Objective

To evaluate time trends in incidence, detection rate, and termination of pregnancy (TOP) rate of major CHD in fetuses in Denmark and assess the influence of the introduction of general prenatal screening in 2004.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Nationwide, population-based, retrospective observational study in Denmark from 1996 to 2013 that included a consecutive sample of 14 688 live-born children and terminated fetuses diagnosed as having CHD. Patient records on TOP and children with major CHD were reviewed to validate the diagnoses. Major CHD included univentricular heart, transposition of the great arteries, congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries, truncus arteriosus, interrupted aortic arch, atrioventricular septal defects, double outlet right ventricle, coarctatio of the aorta, Ebstein anomaly, pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect, pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum, and tetralogy of Fallot. Data were analyzed between January 2017 and March 2018.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Temporal changes in incidence, detection rate, and TOP of major CHD.

Results

Of 14 688 children and fetuses diagnosed with CHD, 2695 (18.4%; 95% CI, 17.8-19.1) had major CHD. A total of 7131 boys (1304 with major CHD) and 6926 girls (920 with major CHD) were included, with a median age of 11 years (interquartile range, 6-15 years). During the study period, the live-birth incidence of CHD was constant at 1.22% (95% CI, 1.18-1.26), whereas it decreased for major CHD. When including TOP, the incidence of major CHD did not change over time. The detection rate of major CHD increased from 4.5% (95% CI, 1.2-7.8) to 71.0% (95% CI, 63.3-78.7) (P < .001). At the end of the study, all cases of double outlet right ventricle, Ebstein anomaly, congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries, and pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect were detected prenatally, whereas coarctation of the aorta had the lowest detection rate (21.7%; 95% CI, 3.5-40.0). The TOP rate increased from 0.6% (95% CI, -0.6 to 1.9) to 39.1% (95% CI, 30.9-47.4) (P < .001) among all major CHD. For prenatally diagnosed major CHD, 57.8% of cases were terminated and the proportion did not change significantly throughout the study. Diagnoses leading to TOP included all major CHD diagnoses.

Conclusions and Relevance

Detection rates of major CHD improved during the study. This has led to increased TOP rates, with a subsequent 39% decrease in the live-birth incidence of major CHD.

Turner syndrome: mechanisms and management

Turner syndrome is a rare condition in women that is associated with either complete or partial loss of one X chromosome, often in mosaic karyotypes. Turner syndrome is associated with short stature, delayed puberty, ovarian dysgenesis, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, infertility, congenital malformations of the heart, endocrine disorders such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and autoimmune disorders. Morbidity and mortality are increased in women with Turner syndrome compared with the general population and the involvement of multiple organs through all stages of life necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to care. Despite an often conspicuous phenotype, the diagnostic delay can be substantial and the average age at diagnosis is around 15 years of age. However, numerous important clinical advances have been achieved, covering all specialty fields involved in the care of girls and women with Turner syndrome. Here, we present an updated Review of Turner syndrome, covering advances in genetic and genomic mechanisms of disease, associated disorders and multidisciplinary approaches to patient management, including growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy.

Recognition and management of adults with Turner syndrome: From the transition of adolescence through the senior years

Turner syndrome is recognized now as a syndrome familiar not only to pediatricians and pediatric specialists, medical geneticists, adult endocrinologists, and cardiologists, but also increasingly to primary care providers, internal medicine specialists, obstetricians, and reproductive medicine specialists. In addition, the care of women with Turner syndrome may involve social services, and various educational and neuropsychologic therapies. This article focuses on the recognition and management of Turner syndrome from adolescents in transition, through adulthood, and into another transition as older women. It can be viewed as an interpretation of recent international guidelines, complementary to those recommendations, and in some instances, an update. An attempt was made to provide an international perspective. Finally, the women and families who live with Turner syndrome and who inspired several sections, are themselves part of the broad readership that may benefit from this review.

The importance of pre- and post-test counseling for prenatal cell-free DNA screening for common fetal aneuploidies

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal cell-free DNA screening for common fetal aneuploidies has rapidly changed the paradigm of prenatal care. Despite its advantages compared to conventional screening methods, its unexpectedly rapid implementation in clinical practice has generated several ethical and medical issues and misconceptions. Aggressive commercial marketing of cell-free DNA screening and media dissemination of misleading information have added confusion. Areas covered: This review provides an extensive update and will focus on the importance of pre-and post-test counseling for prenatal cell-free DNA screening not previously discussed extensively in the available literature. Additionally, we report cell-free DNA screening implementation in the largest obstetrical tertiary unit in Finland which is one of few countries that provides all prenatal screening methods free of charge for all women and has a very high uptake of first-trimester screening. This is not a systematical review, but rather a narrative overview which includes the most relevant and recent original publications and reviews covering this issue. Expert opinion: Despite being the most accurate method for screening of common fetal aneuploidies, the knowledge and counseling should be substantially improved. Cell-free DNA screening is not a replacement for diagnostic testing and its use in prenatal testing is complex and limited.

Changes in the cohort composition of turner syndrome and severe non-diagnosis of Klinefelter, 47,XXX and 47,XYY syndrome: a nationwide cohort study

Background

Knowledge on the prevalence of sex chromosome abnormalities (SCAs) is limited, and delayed diagnosis or non-diagnosis of SCAs are a continuous concern. We aimed to investigate change over time in incidence, prevalence and age at diagnosis among Turner syndrome (TS), Klinefelter syndrome (KS), Triple X syndrome (Triple X) and Double Y syndrome (Double Y).

Methods

This study is a nationwide cohort study in a public health care system. The Danish Cytogenetic Central Registry (DCCR) holds information on all karyotypes performed in Denmark since 1961. We identified all individuals in the DCCR with a relevant SCA during 1961–2014; TS: n = 1156; KS: n = 1235; Triple X: n = 197; and Double Y: n = 287. From Statistics Denmark, which holds an extensive collection of data on the Danish population, complete data concerning dates of death and migrations in and out of Denmark were retrieved for all individuals.

Results

The prevalence among newborns was as follows: TS: 59 per 100,000 females; KS: 57 per 100,000 males; Triple X: 11 per 100,000 females; and Double Y: 18 per 100,000 males. Compared with the expected number among newborns, all TS, 38% of KS, 13% of Triple X, and 18% of Double Y did eventually receive a diagnosis. The incidence of TS with other karyotypes than 45,X (P < 0.0001), KS (P = 0.02), and Double Y (P = 0.03) increased during the study period whereas the incidence of 45,X TS decreased (P = 0.0006). The incidence of Triple X was stable (P = 0.22).

Conclusions

The prevalence of TS is higher than previously identified, and the karyotypic composition of the TS population is changing. Non-diagnosis is extensive among KS, Triple X and Double Y, whereas all TS seem to become diagnosed. The diagnostic activity has increased among TS with other karyotypes than 45,X as well as among KS and Double Y.

Population-based trends in the prenatal diagnosis of sex chromosome aneuploidy before and after non-invasive prenatal testing

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) on trends in the prenatal diagnosis of sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA) in a population with >73,000 annual births.

METHOD

Retrospective population-based cohort study from 1986-2016 of all women undergoing prenatal diagnosis before 25 weeks gestation in the Australian state of Victoria. Statistical significance was tested using the chi-square test for trend or proportions.

RESULTS

There were 2,043,345 births and 842 SCA diagnoses from 1986-2016. The percentage of prenatal diagnostic tests leading to a SCA diagnosis increased significantly from 0.95% in 2010 to 2.93% in 2016 (p < 0.001) but due to a concurrent decline in testing, the annual prenatal diagnosis rate of SCA remained stable at 4.4/10,000 births. Among confirmed fetal SCAs the most common indication for testing in 1986 was advanced maternal age (63%); in 2016 it was high risk NIPT (49%).

CONCLUSION

SCAs now make up an increasing proportion of prenatal diagnostic results but due to the overall decline in diagnostic testing, the prenatal prevalence as a percentage of births remained steady. The ascertainment of fetal SCA has evolved from an incidental finding after testing for increased risk of trisomy 21, to a diagnosis obtained after suspected SCA on NIPT.

Klinefelter syndrome in males with germ cell tumors: A report from the Children's Oncology Group

BACKGROUND

Males with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) (47,XXY) may be more likely to develop germ cell tumors (GCTs), particularly mediastinal GCTs. To date, there are no reports characterizing the prevalence of KS among male GCT cases.

METHODS

The authors used array genotyping data from a Children's Oncology Group epidemiology study to estimate the prevalence of KS in males with GCTs (433 males aged birth-19 years). Using Fisher's exact tests, the authors examined differences in age at diagnosis, race/ethnicity, tumor location and histology, and several birth characteristics between cases of KS-GCT and GCT cases without chromosomal abnormalities. Using publicly available data, the authors estimated the 1-year risk, risk ratio, and corresponding 95% confidence interval of GCTs among KS cases.

RESULTS

Based on analysis of array genotyping data, 3% of male GCT cases (13 cases) had KS. The additional X chromosome was of maternal origin in 7 of the 13 cases. Of these 13 KS cases, 5 of 9 KS-GCT cases with parental questionnaire data (56%) reported a diagnosis of KS. No significant differences were observed with regard to patient or birth characteristics between KS-GCT and non-KS-GCT cases. KS-GCT cases were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with mediastinal tumors than non-KS-GCT cases (P<.01). The authors estimated the risk of developing a GCT among males with KS to be 0.00025, or 1 per 4000 males (risk ratio, 18.8; 95% confidence interval, 11.7-30.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with males without chromosomal abnormalities, males with KS are more likely to be diagnosed with a mediastinal GCT. The presence of KS should be considered in males with a diagnosis of mediastinal GCT. In the current study, the authors report that approximately one-third of males with mediastinal germ cell tumors have Klinefelter syndrome, and therefore screening of these individuals for the syndrome may be warranted. Males with Klinefelter syndrome are 19 times as likely as males without Klinefelter syndrome to develop germ cell tumors.

Mosaic Turner syndrome shows reduced penetrance in an adult population study

Purpose

Many women with X chromosome aneuploidy undergo lifetime clinical monitoring for possible complications. However, ascertainment of cases in the clinic may mean that the penetrance has been overestimated.

Methods

We characterized the prevalence and phenotypic consequences of X chromosome aneuploidy in a population of 244,848 women over 40 years of age from UK Biobank, using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array data.

Results

We detected 30 women with 45,X; 186 with mosaic 45,X/46,XX; and 110 with 47,XXX. The prevalence of nonmosaic 45,X (12/100,000) and 47,XXX (45/100,000) was lower than expected, but was higher for mosaic 45,X/46,XX (76/100,000). The characteristics of women with 45,X were consistent with the characteristics of a clinically recognized Turner syndrome phenotype, including short stature and primary amenorrhea. In contrast, women with mosaic 45,X/46,XX were less short, had a normal reproductive lifespan and birth rate, and no reported cardiovascular complications. The phenotype of women with 47,XXX included taller stature (5.3 cm; SD = 5.52 cm; P = 5.8 × 10⁻²⁰) and earlier menopause age (5.12 years; SD = 5.1 years; P = 1.2 × 10⁻¹⁴).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the clinical management of women with 45,X/46,XX mosaicism should be minimal, particularly those identified incidentally.

Klinefelter Syndrome: Integrating Genetics, Neuropsychology, and Endocrinology

Although first identified over 70 years ago, Klinefelter syndrome (KS) continues to pose substantial diagnostic challenges, as many patients are still misdiagnosed, or remain undiagnosed. In fact, as few as 25% of patients with KS are accurately diagnosed and most of these diagnoses are not made until adulthood. Classic characteristics of KS include small testes, infertility, hypergonadothropic hypogonadism, and cognitive impairment. However, the pathophysiology behind KS is not well understood, although genetic effects are also thought to play a role. For example, recent developments in genetics and genomics point to a fundamental change in our understanding of KS, with global epigenetic and RNA expression changes playing a central role for the phenotype. KS is also associated with more general health markers, including higher morbidity and mortality rates and lower socioeconomic status (which likely affect both morbidity and mortality). In addition, hypogonadism is associated with greater risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and extragonadal germ cell tumors. Medical treatment typically focuses on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), although the effects of this therapy have not been studied rigorously, and future studies need to evaluate the effects of TRT on metabolic risk and neurocognitive outcomes. This review presents a comprehensive interdisciplinary examination of recent developments in genetic, endocrine, and neurocognitive science, including the study of animal models. It provides a number of recommendations for improving the effectiveness of research and clinical practice, including neonatal KS screening programs, and a multidisciplinary approach to KS treatment from childhood until senescence.

Sex chromosome aneuploidy detection by noninvasive prenatal testing: helpful or hazardous?

OBJECTIVES

To assess the incidence of sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA) predicted by noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT), assess test performance, and compare it with nuchal translucency (NT) screening among patients seen in our prenatal diagnosis center.

METHODS

We identified suspected cases of SCA by reviewing results from all NIPT samples sent from our center to commercial laboratories offering analysis by cell-free DNA between 1 December 2012 and 31 July 2015. Records of pregnancies positive for SCA were reviewed for ultrasound findings, NIPT indications, and karyotype results on maternal, fetal, and postnatal samples. Other SCA cases presenting during this period regardless of NIPT status were identified from genetic counseling and cytogenetics laboratory logbooks.

RESULTS

Noninvasive prenatal testing predicted SCA in 18/2851 patients (0.63%). All had diagnostic testing of fetal or newborn samples. No patients terminated pregnancies on the basis of NIPT. NIPT suggested triple X in five cases, two with elevated NT: all were confirmed on karyotype. Two Klinefelter syndrome cases were also accurately predicted by NIPT. NIPT indicated monosomy X in 11 cases. Only one was a true positive. Ten were false positives, with 46, XX found on fetal or newborn karyotype. Maternal karyotype was mosaic (45, X[4], 46, XX[26]) in one case. Over the same time period, four additional cases of 45, X were confirmed on fetal samples, all with cystic hygromas. One of these had had a false negative NIPT result. The remaining patients pursued only direct testing via CVS or amniocentesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Sex chromosome aneuploidy was frequently suspected on NIPT. False positive rate for monosomy X was surprisingly high (91%). Prediction of other SCA was more accurate. Diagnostic fetal chromosome analysis should be offered after abnormal NIPT or in the presence of cystic hygromas despite normal NIPT. NIPT limitations should be explained in pretest counseling. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Clinical practice guidelines for the care of girls and women with Turner syndrome: proceedings from the 2016 Cincinnati International Turner Syndrome Meeting

Turner syndrome affects 25-50 per 100,000 females and can involve multiple organs through all stages of life, necessitating multidisciplinary approach to care. Previous guidelines have highlighted this, but numerous important advances have been noted recently. These advances cover all specialty fields involved in the care of girls and women with TS. This paper is based on an international effort that started with exploratory meetings in 2014 in both Europe and the USA, and culminated with a Consensus Meeting held in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA in July 2016. Prior to this meeting, five groups each addressed important areas in TS care: 1) diagnostic and genetic issues, 2) growth and development during childhood and adolescence, 3) congenital and acquired cardiovascular disease, 4) transition and adult care, and 5) other comorbidities and neurocognitive issues. These groups produced proposals for the present guidelines. Additionally, four pertinent questions were submitted for formal GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) evaluation with a separate systematic review of the literature. These four questions related to the efficacy and most optimal treatment of short stature, infertility, hypertension, and hormonal replacement therapy. The guidelines project was initiated by the European Society for Endocrinology and the Pediatric Endocrine Society, in collaboration with The European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, The Endocrine Society, European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, The American Heart Association, The Society for Endocrinology, and the European Society of Cardiology. The guideline has been formally endorsed by the European Society for Endocrinology, the Pediatric Endocrine Society, the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the Endocrine Society. Advocacy groups appointed representatives who participated in pre-meeting discussions and in the consensus meeting.

Chromosomal abnormalities: subgroup analysis by maternal age and perinatal features in zhejiang province of China, 2011-2015

BACKGROUND

Recently, the prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities (CA) increased as the increasing proportion of mothers with advanced age. We aimed to explore the prevalence of CA in relation to maternal age and perinatal features.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed based on provincial birth defects surveillance data. The relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to calculate maternal age-specific rates of CA. Socio-demographic characteristics of mothers and perinatal features were listed.

RESULTS

The total prevalence of CA was 6.38 per 10,000 births, which increased per 10,000 births linearly from 4.02 in 2011 to 9.13 in 2015 (x ²_line-trend =52.69, p < 0.001). During this period, the prevalence for CA per 10,000 births among women over 35 years old increased from 15.34 in 2011 to 33.82 in 2015 (x ²_line-trend =115121.6, p < 0.001). The RR for overall CA, trisomy 21(T21), trisomy 18(T18) and others in mothers 35 years or older were 6.64 (95% CI 5.55 ~ 7.93), 6.83 (95% CI 5.63 ~ 8.30), 4.06 (95% CI 2.09 ~ 7.90) and 7.54 (95% CI 4.02 ~ 14.11) respectively in comparison to mothers aged 25-29 years old. The stillbirths rate for total CA was 76.45%. T21 and T18 were strongly associated with multiple anomalies, especially congenital heart abnormalities.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of CA increased as maternal age increased. Cases with CA were associated with other congenital defects and high mortality risk.

Where have all the trisomies gone?

Providing reliable prenatal screening performance estimates is critical for patient counseling and policy-making. Women who choose prenatal screening for aneuploidy are likely to be concerned not only with the common aneuploidies but with all causes of intellectual disability and serious birth defects. Sequential prenatal screening (combined serum and ultrasound testing) for aneuploidy detection commonly is offered as a primary screening test. Among women identified as screen positive, cell-free (cf)DNA has been added recently as a secondary, noninvasive screening option, before the consideration of invasive diagnostic testing (eg, amniocentesis and karyotype). With the anticipation of lower costs in the future, cfDNA might be an alternative to sequential screening in the general population. Sequential and cfDNA tests are both noninvasive, and both identify common aneuploidies. Screening via cfDNA detects more common chromosome abnormalities (eg, trisomy 21, sex trisomies). Sequential screening can identify other aneuploidies (eg, triploidy), as well as chromosome abnormalities associated with fetal structural abnormalities. When the advantages and disadvantages of routine sequential screening with routine cfDNA screening are compared, one important measure is the proportion and severity of chromosome abnormalities identified. When reporting these detection rates, authors need to carefully consider the impact of multiple well-described biases. For women to make informed choices in situations of this type, determining reliable comparative performance estimates is crucial.