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Nguyen CQ, Kariyawasam DST, Ngai TSJ, Nguyen J, Alba-Concepcion K, Grattan SE, Palmer EE, Hetherington K, Wakefield CE, Dale RC, Woolfenden S, Mohammad S, Farrar MA. 'High hopes for treatment': Australian stakeholder perspectives of the clinical translation of advanced neurotherapeutics for rare neurological diseases. Health Expect 2024; 27:e14063. [PMID: 38711219 DOI: 10.1111/hex.14063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advanced therapies offer unprecedented opportunities for treating rare neurological disorders (RNDs) in children. However, health literacy, perceptions and understanding of novel therapies need elucidation across the RND community. This study explored healthcare professionals' and carers' perspectives of advanced therapies in childhood-onset RNDs. METHODS In this mixed-methodology cross-sectional study, 20 healthcare professionals (clinicians, genetic counsellors and scientists) and 20 carers completed qualitative semistructured interviews and custom-designed surveys. Carers undertook validated psychosocial questionnaires. Thematic and quantitative data analysis followed. RESULTS Participants described high positive interest in advanced therapies, but low knowledge of, and access to, reliable information. The substantial 'therapeutic gap' and 'therapeutic odyssey' common to RNDs were recognised in five key themes: (i) unmet need and urgency for access; (ii) seeking information; (iii) access, equity and sustainability; (iv) a multidisciplinary and integrated approach to care and support and (v) difficult decision-making. Participants were motivated to intensify RND clinical trial activity and access to advanced therapies; however, concerns around informed consent, first-in-human trials and clinical trial procedures were evident. There was high-risk tolerance despite substantial uncertainties and knowledge gaps. RNDs with high mortality, increased functional burdens and no alternative therapies were consistently prioritised for the development of advanced therapies. However, little consensus existed on prioritisation to treatment access. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the need to increase clinician and health system readiness for the clinical translation of advanced therapeutics for RNDs. Co-development and use of educational and psychosocial resources to support clinical decision-making, set therapeutic expectations and promotion of equitable, effective and safe delivery of advanced therapies are essential. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Participant insights into the psychosocial burden and information need to enhance the delivery of care in this formative study are informing ongoing partnerships with families, including co-production and dissemination of psychoeducational resources featuring their voices hosted on the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network website SCHN Brain-Aid Resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Q Nguyen
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Didu S T Kariyawasam
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tsz Shun Jason Ngai
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James Nguyen
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kristine Alba-Concepcion
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah E Grattan
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth E Palmer
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Genetics, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kate Hetherington
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Behavioural Science Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Behavioural Science Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Russell C Dale
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sue Woolfenden
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Population Child Health Research Group, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Women, Children and their Families, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shekeeb Mohammad
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle A Farrar
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Faye F, Crocione C, Anido de Peña R, Bellagambi S, Escati Peñaloza L, Hunter A, Jensen L, Oosterwijk C, Schoeters E, de Vicente D, Faivre L, Wilbur M, Le Cam Y, Dubief J. Time to diagnosis and determinants of diagnostic delays of people living with a rare disease: results of a Rare Barometer retrospective patient survey. Eur J Hum Genet 2024:10.1038/s41431-024-01604-z. [PMID: 38755315 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-024-01604-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Timely diagnosis is one of the most serious challenges faced by people living with a rare disease (PLWRD), and this study estimates that in Europe, the average total diagnosis time (TDT) is close to 5 years. We investigated the duration of the TDT for PLWRD in Europe, the difficulties associated with their diagnosis odyssey and the main determinants of diagnosis delays for all rare diseases (RD). We conducted a survey of PLWRD and their families using Rare Barometer, the survey initiative of EURORDIS-Rare Diseases Europe. In geographical Europe, we surveyed 6507 people living with 1675 RD in 41 countries. We then performed a descriptive analysis and ordinal logistic regressions to identify the main determinants of diagnosis delays. Average TDT is 4.7 years. 56% of respondents were diagnosed more than 6 months after a first medical contact. The main determinants of diagnosis delays are symptom onset before 30 years of age, especially during childhood (OR = 3.11; 95% CI: 2.4-4.0) and adolescence (OR = 4.79; 95% CI: 3.7-6.2), being a woman (OR = 1.22; 95% CI:1.1-1.4), living in Northern Europe (OR = 2.15; 95% CI:1.8-2.6) or Western Europe (OR = 1.96; 95% CI:1.6-2.3), the number of healthcare professionals consulted (OR = 5.15; 95% CI:4.1-6.4), misdiagnosis (OR = 2.48; 95% CI:2.1-2.9), referral to a centre of expertise (OR = 1.17; 95% CI:1.0-1.3), unmet needs for psychological support (OR = 1.34; 95% CI:1.2-1.5) and financial support (OR = 1.16; 95% CI:1.0-1.3), having a genetic disease (OR = 1.33; 95% CI:1.1-1.5) and a family history of an RD (OR = 1.36; 95% CI:1.1-1.6). These determinants can inform policies and actions to improve access to diagnosis for all PLWRD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lene Jensen
- Sjaeldne Diagnoser - Rare Diseases Denmark, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Cor Oosterwijk
- VSOP - Vereniging Samenwerkende Ouder En Patiëntenorganisaties, Soest, Netherlands
| | - Eva Schoeters
- RaDiOrg - Rare Diseases Belgium asbl/vzw, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Laurence Faivre
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | | | - Yann Le Cam
- EURORDIS-Rare Diseases Europe, Paris, France
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Inhestern L, Otto R, Brandt M, Zybarth D, Oheim R, Schüler H, Mir TS, Tsiakas K, Dibaj P, Zschüntzsch J, Okun PM, Hegenbart U, Sommerburg O, Schramm C, Weiler-Normann C, Härter M, Bergelt C. Patient experiences of interprofessional collaboration and intersectoral communication in rare disease healthcare in Germany - a mixed-methods study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:197. [PMID: 38741100 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03207-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rare diseases are often complex, chronic and many of them life-shortening. In Germany, healthcare for rare diseases is organized in expert centers for rare diseases. Most patients additionally have regional general practicioners and specialists for basic medical care. Thus, collaboration and information exchange between sectors is highly relevant. Our study focuses on the patient and caregiver perspective on intersectoral and interdisciplinary care between local healthcare professionals (HCPs) and centers for rare diseases in Germany. The aims were (1) to investigate patients' and caregivers' general experience of healthcare, (2) to analyse patients' and caregivers' perception of collaboration and cooperation between local healthcare professionals and expert centers for rare diseases and (3) to investigate patients' and caregivers' satisfaction with healthcare in the expert centers for rare diseases. RESULTS In total 299 individuals of whom 176 were patients and 123 were caregivers to pediatric patients participated in a survey using a questionnaire comprising several instruments and constructs. Fifty participants were additionally interviewed using a semistructured guideline. Most patients reported to receive written information about their care, have a contact person for medical issues and experienced interdisciplinary exchange within the centers for rare diseases. Patients and caregivers in our sample were mainly satisfied with the healthcare in the centers for rare diseases. The qualitative interviews showed a rather mixed picture including experiences of uncoordinated care, low engagement and communication difficulties between professionals of different sectors. Patients reported several factors that influenced the organization and quality of healthcare e.g. engagement and health literacy in patients or engagement of HCPs. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate the high relevance of transferring affected patients to specialized care as fast as possible to provide best medical treatment and increase patient satisfaction. Intersectoral collaboration should exceed written information exchange and should unburden patients of being and feeling responsible for communication between sectors and specialists. Results indicate a lack of inclusion of psychosocial aspects in routine care, which suggests opportunities for necessary improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Inhestern
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Ramona Otto
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maja Brandt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - David Zybarth
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Oheim
- Institute of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Helke Schüler
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas S Mir
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Konstantinos Tsiakas
- University Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Payam Dibaj
- Center for Rare Diseases Göttingen (ZSEG), Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jana Zschüntzsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Pamela M Okun
- Center for Rare Diseases Heidelberg, Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ute Hegenbart
- Center for Rare Diseases Heidelberg, Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Amyloidosis Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Olaf Sommerburg
- Center for Rare Diseases Heidelberg, Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergy, and Cystic Fibrosis Center, Department of Pediatrics III, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Schramm
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christina Weiler-Normann
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Elliott EJ, Teutsch S, Nunez C, Morris A, Eslick GD. Improving knowledge of rare disorders since 1993: the Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit. Arch Dis Child 2024:archdischild-2023-326116. [PMID: 38740435 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-326116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit (APSU), established in 1993 to address the paucity of national data on rare childhood disorders, has become an invaluable research resource. It facilitates prospective, active surveillance for a variety of rare disorders, with monthly reporting by ~1500 paediatricians, who are invited to notify incident cases and provide demographic and clinical data. APSU is highly collaborative (used by >400 individuals/organisations), patient-informed and productive (>300 publications). In 30 years, 72 studies have been initiated on rare infections, and genetic, psychological and neurological disorders, and injuries. Return rates of monthly report cards were >90% for 30 years and paediatricians have provided data for >90% of notified cases. Although there are limitations, including case underascertainment in remote regions, APSU often provides the only available national data. APSU has assisted the government in reporting to the WHO, developing national strategies, informing inquiries and investigating disease outbreaks. APSU data have informed paediatrician education, practice, policy, and service development and delivery. APSU was integral in establishing the International Network of Paediatric Surveillance Units (INoPSU) and supporting development of other units. APSU's expanded remit includes one-off surveys, hospital audits, systematic reviews, studies on the impacts of rare disorders on families, surveillance evaluations, and joint studies with INoPSU members. Paediatricians value the APSU, reporting that APSU data inform their practice. They must be congratulated for an outstanding collective commitment to the APSU, in providing unique data that contribute to our understanding of rare disorders and support optimal, evidence-based care and improved child health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Elliott
- The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suzy Teutsch
- The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carlos Nunez
- The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anne Morris
- The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Guy D Eslick
- The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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Soto Jansson J, Bjurulf B, Dellenmark Blom M, Hallböök T, Reilly C. Caregiver perceptions of the impact of Dravet syndrome on the family, current supports and hopes and fears for the future: A qualitative study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 156:109790. [PMID: 38692022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet syndrome (DS) is a Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy (DEE) with onset typically in infancy. Seizures are pharmaco-resistant, and neurodevelopment is compromised in almost all children. There is limited data on the impact of the condition on the family, support needs and hopes and fears in Sweden. METHODS Interviews were undertaken with the caregivers of 36 of 48 (75%) living children with DS in Sweden focusing on the perceived impact on the family, current supports and hopes and fears for the future. Data from the interviews were analyzed by two raters using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS The analysis revealed seven main themes focusing on the perceived negative impact the disease has on caregivers and family functioning. These negative impacts concerned: caregiver sleep (e.g., frequent night waking), siblings (e.g., gets less attention/time), social life (e.g., limited vacations), family finances (e.g., limited career progression), parental health (both mental and physical) and need for constant supervision (e.g., child's need for constant supervision for fear of seizures). Another theme concerned the impact on family relationships. Whilst some caregivers perceived the impact to be negative (e.g., limited time for each other) others felt that having a child with DS lead to stronger relationships and more 'teamwork'. With respect to supports, the caregivers identified a number of areas where they felt the family could access appropriate supports. Themes regarding supports included: support from the wider family and friends, support from DS support groups (online or in-person), support from the child's hospital or disability service and respite care (e.g., child was looked after on weekends or had paid carers in the home). Regarding hopes and fears for the future, responses focused mainly on fears, including concerns about premature death of the child, transition to adult healthcare services and care arrangements for child when parents are dead. Hopes for the future included better treatment for epilepsy and associated neurodevelopmental problems and finding a cure for DS. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of children with DS report that the disease can have a very comprehensive negative impact on caregiver and family functioning. Identifying and providing the supports to ameliorate these negative impacts is vital to optimize caregiver and family wellbeing and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefin Soto Jansson
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Björn Bjurulf
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Michaela Dellenmark Blom
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tove Hallböök
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Colin Reilly
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Černe T, Turk E, Mirosevic S, Rotar Pavlič D. Needs and Experiences With Health Care Providers of Adult Rare Disease Patients and Caregivers of People With Rare Diseases: Protocol for a Qualitative Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e53362. [PMID: 38648088 DOI: 10.2196/53362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rare diseases in Europe are defined as diseases with a prevalence of less than 5 per 10,000 people. Despite their individual rarity, the total number of rare diseases is considerable. Rare diseases are often chronic and complex, affecting physical, mental, and neurological health. People with rare diseases face challenges such as delayed diagnosis, limited medical support, and financial burden. Caregivers, usually family members, bear significant physical and emotional burdens. Understanding the experiences of patients with rare disease and their caregivers is critical to effective care, but this is still underresearched. Better support and understanding of the challenges faced by both patients and caregivers is clearly needed. Our study will explore the experiences and needs of people with rare diseases and caregivers of people with rare diseases in relation to accessing health services. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the experiences of patients with rare disease and their caregivers with Slovenian health care providers and to create a theoretical model of needs and experiences. METHODS This is a qualitative thematic analysis study, using the codebook approach. The study will conduct semi-open-ended interviews to understand the experiences and needs of people with rare diseases and caregivers of people with rare diseases in relation to accessing health services. The interview questions will be based on an extensive literature review. Data from the interviews will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and build a thematic map. Data will be analyzed by at least 2 coders. To ensure reliability, respondent validation will be conducted and negative cases investigated. Any discrepancies will be resolved by consulting the entire research team until a consensus is reached. RESULTS This study was not specifically funded. However, author TČ is supported by grant number P3-0339 from the Slovenian Agency for Research and Innovation. This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Republic of Slovenia (0120-47/2022/3), and recruitment is expected to begin in May 2024, with data analysis results anticipated by the end of 2025. CONCLUSIONS This study will fill an important research gap in Slovenia by exploring the needs and experiences of people living with rare diseases and their caregivers. The results will contribute to the broader field of rare diseases and add knowledge that can inform future research processes and intervention strategies. It also aims to identify neglected areas that have a significant impact on the lives of people with rare diseases. This study is important not only because it addresses the immediate needs of the Slovenian rare disease community, but also because it contributes to a discussion on patient-centered care, health policy design, and the inclusion of psychosocial components in health care. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/53362.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Černe
- Deparment of Family Medicine, Univeristy of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eva Turk
- Center for Digital Health and Social Innovation, Department of Health Sciences, Univerisity of St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
- Medical Faculty, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Spela Mirosevic
- Deparment of Family Medicine, Univeristy of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Namsrai T, Phillips C, Parkinson A, Gregory D, Kelly E, Cook M, Desborough J. Diagnostic delay of sarcoidosis: an integrated systematic review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:156. [PMID: 38605384 PMCID: PMC11010435 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03152-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory granulomatous disease of unknown cause. Delays in diagnosis can result in disease progression and poorer outcomes for patients. Our aim was to review the current literature to determine the overall diagnostic delay of sarcoidosis, factors associated with diagnostic delay, and the experiences of people with sarcoidosis of diagnostic delay. METHODS Three databases (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and ProQuest) and grey literature sources were searched. Random effects inverse variance meta-analysis was used to pool mean diagnostic delay in all types of sarcoidosis subgroup analysis. Diagnostic delay was defined as the time from reported onset of symptoms to diagnosis of sarcoidosis. RESULTS We identified 374 titles, of which 29 studies were included in the review, with an overall sample of 1531 (694 females, 837 males). The overall mean diagnostic delay in all types of sarcoidosis was 7.93 months (95% CI 1.21 to 14.64 months). Meta-aggregation of factors related to diagnostic delay in the included studies identified three categories: (1) the complex and rare features of sarcoidosis, (2) healthcare factors and (3) patient-centred factors. Meta-aggregation of outcomes reported in case studies revealed that the three most frequent outcomes associated with diagnostic delay were: (1) incorrect diagnosis, (2) incorrect treatment and (3) development of complications/disease progression. There was no significant difference in diagnostic delay between countries with gatekeeper health systems (where consumers are referred from a primary care clinician to specialist care) and countries with non-gatekeeper systems. No qualitative studies examining people's experiences of diagnostic delay were identified. CONCLUSION The mean diagnostic delay for sarcoidosis is almost 8 months, which has objective consequences for patient management. On the other hand, there is a paucity of evidence about the experience of diagnostic delay in sarcoidosis and factors related to this. Gaining an understanding of people's experiences while seeking a diagnosis of sarcoidosis is vital to gain insight into factors that may contribute to delays, and subsequently inform strategies, tools and training activities aimed at increasing clinician and public awareness about this rare condition. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO Registration number: CRD42022307236.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tergel Namsrai
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, 63, Eggleston Road, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia
| | - Christine Phillips
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anne Parkinson
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, 63, Eggleston Road, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia
| | - Dianne Gregory
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, 63, Eggleston Road, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia
- Sarcoidosis Lyme Australia, Camden, Australia
| | - Elaine Kelly
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, 63, Eggleston Road, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia
- Sarcoidosis Lyme Australia, Camden, Australia
| | - Matthew Cook
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Jane Desborough
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, 63, Eggleston Road, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia.
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Luermans J, Fleming J, O'Shea R, Barlow-Stewart K, Palmer EE, Leffler M. "We are not a typical family anymore": Exploring the experiences and support needs of fathers of children with Fragile X syndrome in Australia. Am J Med Genet A 2024; 194:e63470. [PMID: 37974553 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
A diagnosis of the X-linked condition Fragile X syndrome (FXS) in a child commonly reveals the mother's carrier status. Previous research focused on the genetic counseling process for the child and maternal family, despite calls for more research on the support needs of fathers. This study explored experiences and support needs of fathers at least 1 year after their child's FXS diagnosis to understand barriers and enablers and optimize health outcomes for the family. In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 fathers recruited through the Australian Genetics of Learning Disability Service and the Fragile X Association. Deidentified transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis guided by an inductive approach. Four themes emerged: (1) making life easier through understanding-yesterday and today, (2) the path to a new normal-today and tomorrow, (3) seeking information and support, and (4) what men want. Fathers reported diagnostic odysseys, postdiagnostic grief, and challenges adjusting. They highlighted difficulties in understanding their child's unique behaviors and needs, responding to their partner's psychological support needs, planning for their child's future, and navigating complex health and disability systems. Participants suggested health professionals facilitate father-to-father support and psychological counseling. These findings highlight the unmet needs of fathers and suggest that a strengths-based approach is critically important given the recognized mental health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacintha Luermans
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane Fleming
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rosie O'Shea
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kristine Barlow-Stewart
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Emma Palmer
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melanie Leffler
- Genetics of Learning Disability (GOLD) Service, Hunter Genetics, Waratah, New South Wales, Australia
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9
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Liu L, Shi Y, Fan X, Yao Y, Wu W, Tian Y, Wu H, Li Z, Wang Y, Xu C. The health-care utilization and economic burden in patients with genetic skeletal disorders. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:99. [PMID: 38438867 PMCID: PMC10913423 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03102-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most genetic skeletal disorders (GSD) were complex, disabling and life-threatening without effective diagnostic and treatment methods. However, its impacts on health system have not been well studied. The study aimed to systematically evaluate the health-care utilization and economic burden in GSD patients. METHODS The patients were derived from 2018 Nationwide Inpatient Sample and Nationwide Readmissions Database. GSD patients were extracted based on International Classification of Diseases-10th revision codes. RESULTS A total of 25,945 (0.12%) records regarding GSD were extracted from all 21,400,282 records in NIS database. GSD patients were likely to have significantly longer length of stay (6.50 ± 0.08 vs. 4.63 ± 0.002, P < 0.001), higher total charges ($85,180.97 ± 1,239.47 vs. $49,884.26 ± 20.99, P < 0.001), suffering more procedure, diagnosis and transferring records in comparison to patients with common conditions. GSD patients had a significantly higher 30-day all-cause readmission rate based on Nationwide Readmissions Database. CONCLUSIONS The heavy health-care utilization and economic burden emphasized the urgency for policy leaders, scientific and pharmaceutical researchers, health care providers and employers to identify innovative ways and take effective measurements immediately, and eventually to help improve the care, management, and treatment of these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luna Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yingzhou Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiude Fan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Research Center of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yangyang Yao
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wanhong Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yang Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huixiao Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Research Center of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zongyue Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Research Center of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanzhou Wang
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Shandong First Medical University, Ministry of Education, Jinan, China.
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Research Center of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 250021, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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10
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Paudel N, Daly A, Waters F, Stratieva P. Genetic Testing Experiences of People Living with Inherited Retinal Degenerations: Results of a Global Survey. Ophthalmic Res 2024; 67:201-210. [PMID: 38368861 DOI: 10.1159/000537818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obtaining a genetic diagnosis via genetic testing (GT) is a fundamental step in determining the eligibility of a patient to be enrolled in emerging clinical trials and research studies. Besides, the knowledge of genetic outcome allows patients to plan for significant life choices. However, critical barriers exist to an equitable access to genetic services globally. The objective of this study was to explore patient experiences while seeking genomic services for inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs). METHODS An online survey was designed based on a focus group conducted by Retina International and including people affected by IRDs and their families living in different regions around the world. The survey was then circulated to 43 Retina International member organisations globally via email newsletters and social networks. The survey involved questions in relation to the accessibility, affordability, and timeliness of genomic services for IRDs as well as patient perceived awareness of genomic services for IRDs among healthcare professionals. RESULTS A total of 410 respondents (IRD patients and caregivers) from over 30 countries across all continents responded to the survey. A considerable number of the patients had to go through a long and arduous journey to access GT and counselling services, wherein 40% had to visit more than 5 physicians, 27% had to visit more than 5 clinics, and 57% had to wait for more than 3 years before obtaining a genetic diagnosis. Furthermore, 46% of respondents reported not receiving genetic counselling prior to undergoing GT, and 39% reported not receiving genetic counselling after undergoing GT. Over 3/4th of the participants reported that they did not have to pay for their genomic services for IRDs. Thirty-seven percent of the respondents reported that their eye care professionals (ECPs) were either not aware of GT, remained neutral, or did not encourage them to undergo GT. CONCLUSION Patients with IRDs do not have equitable access to best practice GT and counselling services. Greater awareness and training regarding IRDs and the benefits of GT and genetic counselling for patients and families are needed among ECPs. A best practice model on access to genomic services for IRDs is required.
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11
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Siebold D, Denton J, Hurst ACE, Moss I, Korf B. A qualitative evaluation of patient and parent experiences with an undiagnosed diseases program. Am J Med Genet A 2024; 194:131-140. [PMID: 37750194 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have explored patient experiences before being seen or at the beginning of their evaluation by undiagnosed diseases programs. This study provides additional insight into experiences after participation through in-depth, qualitative evaluation, allowing for reflection of current practice and patient/parent needs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients and parents of patients seen at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)'s unique, clinically focused Undiagnosed Diseases Program (UDP). Analysis of the interviews was guided by a thematic approach. Participants had undergone a diagnostic odyssey before being evaluated by the UDP and remained hopeful for a diagnosis. They appreciated the opportunity to be seen by the UDP. However, perception of experiences differed based on whether evaluation by the UDP led to a diagnosis. Additionally, while participants were pleased with initial communication, they indicated that there were unmet needs regarding follow-up. Patients and parents of patients believe that participation in an undiagnosed diseases program is the best option for diagnosis. The findings of this study provide a general overview of patient experiences and highlight strengths of the UAB UDP while also emphasizing areas to focus the improvement to optimize the benefit to patients and families with undiagnosed and rare diseases, which could be used helpful in the development of similar clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea Siebold
- University of Alabama (UAB), School of Health Professions, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jessica Denton
- University of Alabama (UAB), School of Health Professions, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Irene Moss
- UAB Department of Genetics, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Bruce Korf
- UAB Department of Genetics, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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12
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Ryyppö R, Häyrynen S, Joutsijoki H, Juhola M, Seppänen MRJ. Comparison of machine learning methods in the early identification of vasculitides, myositides and glomerulonephritides. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 243:107917. [PMID: 37948909 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2023.107917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rare disease diagnoses are often delayed by years, including multiple doctor visits, and potential imprecise or incorrect diagnoses before receiving the correct one. Machine learning could solve this problem by flagging potential patients that doctors should examine more closely. METHODS Making the prediction situation as close as possible to real situation, we tested different masking sizes. In the masking phase, data was removed, and it was applied to all data points following the first rare disease diagnosis, including the day when the diagnosis was received, and in addition applied to selected number of days before initial diagnosis. Performance of machine learning models were compared with positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), prevalence PPV (pPPV), prevalence NPV (pNPV), accuracy (ACC) and area under the receiver operation characteristics curve (AUC). RESULTS XGBoost had PPVs over 90 % in all masking settings, and InceptionVasGloMyotides had most of the PPVs over 90 %, but not as consistently. When the prevalence of the diseases was considered XGBoost achieved highest value of 8.8 % in binary classification with 30 days masking and InceptionVasGloMyotides achieved the best value of 6 % in the binary classification as well, but with 2160 days and 4320 days masking. ACC were varying between 89 % and 98 % with XGBoost and InceptionVasGloMyotides having variation between 79 % and 94 %. AUC on the other hand varied between 72.6 % and 94.5 % with InceptionVasGloMyotides and for XGBoost it varied between 69.9 % and 96.4 %. CONCLUSIONS XGBoost and InceptionVasGloMyotides could successfully predict rare diseases for patients at least 30 days prior to initial rare disease diagnose. In addition, we managed to build performative custom deep learning model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmus Ryyppö
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Kanslerinrinne 1, Tampere 33014, Finland; Tietoevry Ltd, Espoo, Finland.
| | | | - Henry Joutsijoki
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Kanslerinrinne 1, Tampere 33014, Finland
| | - Martti Juhola
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Kanslerinrinne 1, Tampere 33014, Finland
| | - Mikko R J Seppänen
- Rare Disease Center and Pediatric Research Center, New Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and HUS Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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13
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Bordini BJ, Walsh RD, Basel D, Deshmukh T. Attaining Diagnostic Excellence: How the Structure and Function of a Rare Disease Service Contribute to Ending the Diagnostic Odyssey. Med Clin North Am 2024; 108:1-14. [PMID: 37951644 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Patients with rare or otherwise undiagnosed disorders frequently find themselves on a diagnostic odyssey, the often-prolonged journey toward diagnosis that can be characterized by significant physical, emotional, and financial hardship, as well as by diagnostic errors and delays. The wider availability of clinical exome sequencing has helped end many diagnostic odysseys, though diagnostic success rates of around 35% for exome sequencing leave many patients undiagnosed. Diagnostic yields can be improved via the implementation of advanced genetic testing modalities, though both these modalities and exome sequencing perform significantly better when paired with high-quality phenotypic data. Diagnostic centers of excellence can improve outcomes for patients on a diagnostic odyssey by providing a process and environment that address shortfalls in diagnostic access while providing high-quality phenotyping. Features of successful undiagnosed and rare disease evaluation teams are discussed and an illustrative case is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett J Bordini
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hospital Medicine, Nelson Service for Undiagnosed and Rare Diseases, Medical College of Wisconsin.
| | - Ryan D Walsh
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin; Eye Institute - Froedtert Hospital, 925 North 87th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Donald Basel
- Department of Pediatrics, Section Chief, Division of Medical Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 9000 West Wisconsin Avenue MC716, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Tejaswini Deshmukh
- Department of Radiology, Division of Pediatric Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin; Department of Pediatric Imaging, 9000 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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14
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Opoku P, Osei-Tutu A, Oti-Boadi M. Psychosocial impacts of caring for a child with a genetic disorder in Accra, Ghana. J Community Genet 2023; 14:565-574. [PMID: 37581869 PMCID: PMC10725383 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-023-00662-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Caregivers caring for a child with a genetic condition may experience psychosocial distress, which may be compounded by the context in which the caring takes place. Few studies have examined psychosocial distress and support among caregivers caring for a child with a genetic disorder in low-middle-income countries such as Ghana. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the psychosocial impacts of caring for a child with a genetic disorder in an urban setting in Ghana's capital, Accra. We conducted individual interviews among 17 caregivers who were taking care of children with various genetic disorders including, albinism, Edward's syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, sickle cell disease, and spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita. Thematic analysis of the data revealed three main themes on the psychosocial impacts, including: (1) self-blame, guilt, and shame; (2) sleep and mood disturbances; and (3) discrimination and stigmatization. We observed three themes about support: (1) psychological support; (2) family and community support; and (3) institutional support. Participants reported limited support from professionals such as psychologists. Discussion focuses on the supportive care needs of caregivers and implications for genetic counselling awareness, advocacy, and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Opoku
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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15
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Djafar JV, Smith NJ, Johnson AM, Bhattacharya K, Ardern-Holmes SL, Ellaway C, Dale RC, D'Silva AM, Kariyawasam DS, Grattan S, Kandula T, Lewis K, Mohammed SS, Farrar MA. Characterizing Common Phenotypes Across the Childhood Dementia Disorders: A Cross-sectional Study From Two Australian Centers. Pediatr Neurol 2023; 149:75-83. [PMID: 37806042 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood dementias are a group of rare pediatric conditions characterized by progressive neurocognitive decline. Quantifying and characterising phenotypes to identify similarities between specific conditions is critical to inform opportunities to optimize care and advance research. METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited primary caregivers of children (<18 years) living with a dementia syndrome from neurology and metabolic clinics in Sydney and Adelaide, Australia. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collated. Behavior, eating, sleep, pain, and neurological disability were assessed using validated tools, including Strengths and Difficulties, Child Eating Behaviour, and Children's Sleep Habits questionnaires and visual analog of pain and modified Rankin scales. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics. RESULTS Among 45 children with 23 different dementia syndromes, the modified Rankin Scale demonstrated at least moderate neurological disability and functional dependence in 82% (37/45). Families reported delays in receiving an accurate diagnosis following initial symptoms (mean: 1.6 ± 1.4 years, range: 0-5 years). The most prevalent phenotypes included communication, comprehension, or recall difficulties (87%, 39/45); disturbances in sleep (80%, 36/45); appetite changes (74%, 29/39); mobility issues (53%, 24/45); and hyperactive behavior (53%, 21/40). Behavioral problems had a "high" or "very high" impact on everyday family life in 73% (24/33). CONCLUSIONS Childhood dementia disorders share substantial behavioral, motor, sensory, and socioemotional symptoms, resulting in high care needs, despite their vast heterogeneity in age of onset and progression. Considering their unifying characteristics under one collective term is an opportunity to improve treatment, provide quality care, and accelerate research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason V Djafar
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Smith
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Alexandra M Johnson
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia; Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kaustuv Bhattacharya
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Carolyn Ellaway
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Russell C Dale
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Arlene M D'Silva
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Didu S Kariyawasam
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia; Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Grattan
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tejaswi Kandula
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katherine Lewis
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Shekeeb S Mohammed
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle A Farrar
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia; Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia.
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16
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Chen F, Ahimaz P, Wang K, Chung WK, Ta C, Weng C, Liu C. Phenotype-Driven Molecular Genetic Test Recommendation for Diagnosing Pediatric Rare Disorders. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3593490. [PMID: 38045411 PMCID: PMC10690317 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3593490/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Rare disease patients often endure prolonged diagnostic odysseys and may still remain undiagnosed for years. Selecting the appropriate genetic tests is crucial to lead to timely diagnosis. Phenotypic features offer great potential for aiding genomic diagnosis in rare disease cases. We see great promise in effective integration of phenotypic information into genetic test selection workflow. In this study, we present a phenotype-driven molecular genetic test recommendation (Phen2Test) for pediatric rare disease diagnosis. Phen2Test was constructed using frequency matrix of phecodes and demographic data from the EHR before ordering genetic tests, with the objective to streamline the selection of molecular genetic tests (whole-exome / whole-genome sequencing, or gene panels) for clinicians with minimum genetic training expertise. We developed and evaluated binary classifiers based on 1,005 individuals referred to genetic counselors for potential genetic evaluation. In the evaluation using the gold standard cohort, the model achieved strong performance with an AUROC of 0.82 and an AUPRC of 0.92. Furthermore, we tested the model on another silver standard cohort (n=6,458), achieving an overall AUROC of 0.72 and an AUPRC of 0.671. Phen2Test was adjusted to align with current clinical guidelines, showing superior performance with more recent data, demonstrating its potential for use within a learning healthcare system as a genomic medicine intervention that adapts to guideline updates. This study showcases the practical utility of phenotypic features in recommending molecular genetic tests with performance comparable to clinical geneticists. Phen2Test could assist clinicians with limited genetic training and knowledge to order appropriate genetic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Priyanka Ahimaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wendy K. Chung
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Casey Ta
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chunhua Weng
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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17
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Macnamara EF, Loydpierson A, Latour YL, D'Souza P, Murphy J, Wolfe L, Estwick T, Johnston JM, Yang J, Acosta MT, Lee PR, Pierson TM, Soldatos A, Toro C, Markello T, Adams DR, Gahl WA, Yousef M, Tifft CJ. Risks and benefits of anesthesia for combined pediatric procedures in the NIH undiagnosed diseases program. Mol Genet Metab 2023; 140:107707. [PMID: 37883914 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2023.107707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program (UDP) aims to provide diagnoses to patients who have previously received exhaustive evaluations yet remain undiagnosed. Patients undergo procedural anesthesia for deep phenotyping for analysis with genomic testing. METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed to determine the safety and benefit of procedural anesthesia in pediatric patients in the UDP. Adverse perioperative events were classified as anesthesia-related complications or peri-procedural complications. The contribution of procedures performed under anesthesia to arriving at a diagnosis was also determined. RESULTS From 2008 to 2020, 249 pediatric patients in the UDP underwent anesthesia for diagnostic procedures. The majority had a severe systemic disease (American Society for Anesthesiology status III, 79%) and/or a neurologic condition (91%). Perioperative events occurred in 45 patients; six of these were attributed to anesthesia. All patients recovered fully without sequelae. Nearly half of the 249 patients (49%) received a diagnosis, and almost all these diagnoses (88%) took advantage of information gleaned from procedures performed under anesthesia. CONCLUSIONS The benefits of anesthesia involving multiple diagnostic procedures in a well-coordinated, multidisciplinary, research setting, such as in the pediatric UDP, outweigh the risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen F Macnamara
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Amelia Loydpierson
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Yvonne L Latour
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States of America
| | - Precilla D'Souza
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; Hummingbird House Children's Hospice, 60 Curwen Terrace, Chermside, Queensland 4032, Australia
| | - Jennifer Murphy
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; Hummingbird House Children's Hospice, 60 Curwen Terrace, Chermside, Queensland 4032, Australia
| | - Lynne Wolfe
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Tyra Estwick
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Jean M Johnston
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - John Yang
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Maria T Acosta
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Paul R Lee
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; Division of Neurology 2, Office of Neuroscience, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States of America
| | - Tyler Mark Pierson
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology & The Board of Governors, Regenerative Medicine Institute and the Cedars Sinai Center for the Undiagnosed Patient, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Ariane Soldatos
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Camilo Toro
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Tom Markello
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - David R Adams
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - William A Gahl
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Muhammad Yousef
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Department of Perioperative Medicine, Pediatric Anesthesiology, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Cynthia J Tifft
- National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America; National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States of America.
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18
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Baxter MF, Hansen M, Gration D, Groza T, Baynam G. Surfacing undiagnosed disease: consideration, counting and coding. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1283880. [PMID: 38027298 PMCID: PMC10646190 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1283880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic odyssey for people living with rare diseases (PLWRD) is often prolonged for myriad reasons including an initial failure to consider rare disease and challenges to systemically and systematically identifying and tracking undiagnosed diseases across the diagnostic journey. This often results in isolation, uncertainty, a delay to targeted treatments and increase in risk of complications with significant consequences for patient and family wellbeing. This article aims to highlight key time points to consider a rare disease diagnosis along with elements to consider in the potential operational classification for undiagnosed rare diseases during the diagnostic odyssey. We discuss the need to create a coding framework that traverses all stages of the diagnostic odyssey for PLWRD along with the potential benefits this will have to PLWRD and the wider community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan F. Baxter
- Emergency Department, Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Michele Hansen
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Dylan Gration
- Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Tudor Groza
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Rare Care Centre, Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Gareth Baynam
- Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
- Rare Care Centre, Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, WA, Genetic Services of WA, Perth, WA, Australia
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19
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Pieroni F, Marrucci S, Di Pietro L, Berni C, Scaletti C. The Tuscany Regional Network for rare diseases: from European Reference Networks' experience to registry based organisation and management model for rare diseases. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:324. [PMID: 37833795 PMCID: PMC10576286 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02947-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the European Union, a disease is defined as rare when it affects fewer than 1 in 2000 people. Currently, there are up to 8000 described rare diseases (RDs), collectively affecting 30 million people in the European Union. In 2004 Tuscany region (Italy) established a Regional Network of hospital units to ensure highly specialised medical care in the field of RDs. Shortly after the Rare Diseases Registry of Tuscany (Registro Toscano Malattie Rare-RTMR) was implemented. Here we describe the analysis performed on RTMR data which has recently allowed to remap the Network based on European Reference Networks' model. RESULTS Data analysis was performed on 60,367 cases registered in RTMR, regarding 628 RDs. Two-hundred and fifteen active presidia have been evaluated. The assignment of each RD to the suitable European Reference Network has been made considering not only the number of registered cases, certifications and treatment plans for each Regional Presidium but also the competence in multidisciplinary management of the patient, from diagnosis to treatment. This evaluation has led to the establishment of twenty-one Regional Coordination Centres. They aggregate and coordinate Hospital Units which diagnose and treat one or a group of related RDs. In case of wide groups of RDs, Clinical Subnets are instituted. Updated statistics regarding RDs in Tuscany, list of RDs and Coordination Centres, as well as information about single Presidia are published and freely available on a designated webpage. Regional Decrees are regularly updated according to the network evolution. CONCLUSIONS The Rare Diseases Regional Network in Tuscany, based on the ERN model, has played a pivotal role in enhancing RD management and research. The remapping has led to a dynamic system, following not only scientific research but also the development of Presidia's expertise. By pooling resources and expertise, the network has improved the availability and accessibility of specialized care for patients with RDs. Collaborative efforts, data sharing, and standardized registries are crucial for advancing RD research, improving diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with RDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linda Di Pietro
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Cecilia Berni
- Tuscany Region's Rare Disease Network, Tuscany Region, Florence, Italy
- Rare Diseases, Congenital Anomalies, Birth Path and Paediatrics Network - Healthcare, Welfare and Social Cohesion Directorate, Tuscany Region, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Scaletti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
- Tuscany Region's Rare Disease Network, Tuscany Region, Florence, Italy.
- Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
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20
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Wooding EL, Morton MJS, Lim M, Mitrofan O, Mushet N, Sie A, Knight B, Ford T, Newlove-Delgado T. Childhood/adolescent Sydenham's chorea in the UK and Ireland: a BPSU/CAPSS surveillance study. Arch Dis Child 2023; 108:736-741. [PMID: 37225279 PMCID: PMC10447407 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-325399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct the first prospective surveillance study of Sydenham's chorea (SC) in the UK and Ireland, and to describe the current paediatric and child psychiatric service-related incidence, presentation and management of SC in children and young people aged 0-16 years. DESIGN Surveillance study of first presentations of SC reported by paediatricians via the British Paediatric Surveillance Unit (BPSU) and all presentations of SC reported by child and adolescent psychiatrists through the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Surveillance System (CAPSS). RESULTS Over 24 months from November 2018, 72 reports were made via BPSU, of which 43 met the surveillance case definition of being eligible cases of suspected or confirmed SC. This translates to an estimated paediatric service-related incidence rate of new SC cases of 0.16 per 100 000 children aged 0-16 per year in the UK. No reports were made via CAPSS over the 18-month reporting period, although over 75% of BPSU cases presented with emotional and/or behavioural symptoms. Almost all cases were prescribed courses of antibiotics of varying duration, and around a quarter of cases (22%) received immunomodulatory treatment. CONCLUSIONS SC remains a rare condition in the UK and Ireland but has not disappeared. Our findings emphasise the impact that the condition can have on children's functioning and confirm that paediatricians and child psychiatrists should remain vigilant to its presenting features, which commonly include emotional and behavioural symptoms. There is a further need for development of consensus around identification, diagnosis and management across child health settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Louise Wooding
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, Devon, UK
| | | | - Ming Lim
- Children's Neurosciences Centre, Evelina Childrens Hospital, London, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Oana Mitrofan
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, UK
- Devon Partnership Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Nadine Mushet
- CAMHS, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Adrian Sie
- Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- NHS Lanarkshire, Bothwell, South Lanarkshire, UK
| | - Brodie Knight
- Royal Hospital for Sick Children Yorkhill, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Tamsin Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Tamsin Newlove-Delgado
- Children and Young People's Mental Health (ChYMe) Research Collaboration, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, Devon, UK
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21
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Witt S, Schuett K, Wiegand-Grefe S, Boettcher J, Quitmann J. Living with a rare disease - experiences and needs in pediatric patients and their parents. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:242. [PMID: 37568186 PMCID: PMC10422846 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A rare disease (RD) diagnosis and therapy can affect the family's quality of life and mental health. A lack of information and missing care options lead to helplessness and psychological stress within families. This work aims to identify patients' and parents' experiences in daily life and with the health care system as well as their needs and current pathways to psychosocial care to develop implementation strategies adapted to the families' needs. METHODS The present analysis is part of the national multicenter study "Children Affected by Rare Disease and Their Families-Network (CARE-FAM-NET)." We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with children, adolescents, and young adults with RD (aged 12 to 21 years) and parents of children with RD (aged 0 to 17 years). We analyzed the transcribed and anonymized interviews using the method of focused interview analyses to identify previous experiences with medical and psychosocial care and possible needs for improvement and support. RESULTS Seventy-four parents of children with RD and 15 children, adolescents, and young adults with RD participated. Five main themes emerged. Daily life with an RD: RD affects the everyday and social life of the respondents, negatively impacting mental well-being. Experiences with the health care system: The long diagnostic path is stressful for families. Professionals' lack of information/education leads to inadequate care for those affected. Psychosocial support: Families do not know about psychosocial care services. In some cases, the families take advantage of psychosocial support services (such as support groups or advocacy groups), which are predominantly very helpful. Difficulties and barriers: Time, socio-legal and organizational problems burden families and lead to advantages in using psychosocial services. Improvements for patient-oriented support: Those affected wished for timely, preventive support (especially in administrative and socio-legal matters) and education regarding psychosocial care services. CONCLUSION RD represent a great challenge for all family members - patients, parents, and siblings. The patients' and parents' previous experiences in daily life, medical and psychosocial care show a need for target-group specific support, including training of health care professionals and low-threshold access care services and practical help for all family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Witt
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52 W 26, Hamburg, 20246, Germany.
| | - Katharina Schuett
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52 W 26, Hamburg, 20246, Germany
| | - Silke Wiegand-Grefe
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Boettcher
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Quitmann
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52 W 26, Hamburg, 20246, Germany
- Faculty of Business and Social Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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22
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Benito-Lozano J, Arias-Merino G, Gómez-Martínez M, Arconada-López B, Ruiz-García B, Posada de la Paz M, Alonso-Ferreira V. Psychosocial impact at the time of a rare disease diagnosis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288875. [PMID: 37506095 PMCID: PMC10381039 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over half of all persons with rare diseases (RDs) in Spain experience diagnostic delay (DD) but little is known about its consequences. This study therefore aimed to analyze the psychological impact of obtaining a diagnosis of an RD, and to ascertain what social determinants are influenced and what the personal consequences are, according to whether or not patients experienced DD. Data were obtained from a purpose-designed form completed by persons registered at the Spanish Rare Diseases Patient Registry. The following were performed: a descriptive analysis; a principal component analysis (PCA); and logistic regressions. Results revealed that while searching for a diagnosis, people who experienced DD were more in need of psychological care than those diagnosed in less than one year (36.2% vs 23.2%; p = 0.002; n = 524). The PCA identified three principal components, i.e., psychological effects, social implications, and functional impact. Reducing DD would improve psychological effects, such as irritability (OR 3.6; 95%CI 1.5-8.5), frustration (OR 3.4; 95%CI 1.7-7.1) and concentration on everyday life (OR 3.3; 95%CI 1.4-7.7). The influence of the social implications and functional repercussions of the disease was greater in persons with DD (scores of 22.4 vs 20 and 10.6 vs 9.4, respectively) in terms of the difficulty in explaining symptoms to close friends and family (3.3 vs 2.9), and loss of independence (3.3 vs 2.9). In conclusion, this is the first study to analyze the psychosocial impact of diagnosis of RDs in Spain and one of few to assess it in the patients themselves, based on data drawn from a purpose-designed form from a national registry open to any RD. People affected by RDs who underwent DD experienced greater psychosocial impact than did those who were diagnosed within the space of one year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Benito-Lozano
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Greta Arias-Merino
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mario Gómez-Martínez
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Arconada-López
- Spanish Federation of Rare Diseases (FEDER), Federación Española de Enfermedades Raras, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Ruiz-García
- The State Reference Center for Assistance to People Living with Rare Diseases and their Families (Creer), Centro de Referencia Estatal de Atención a Personas con Enfermedades Raras y sus Familias, dependiente del IMSERSO, Burgos, Spain
| | - Manuel Posada de la Paz
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Undiagnosed Diseases Network International (UDNI), Madrid, Spain
| | - Verónica Alonso-Ferreira
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, España
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23
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Ayton LN, Galvin KL, Johansen L, O’Hare F, Shepard ER. Awareness of Usher Syndrome and the Need for Multidisciplinary Care: A Cross-Occupational Survey of Allied Health Clinicians. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:1927-1936. [PMID: 37465013 PMCID: PMC10351585 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s411306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Usher syndrome is the most common cause of deaf-blindness, affecting up to 1 in 6000 people. Multidisciplinary care is required to maximize outcomes for individuals and families. This study assessed awareness of Usher Syndrome amongst allied health clinicians who provide care related to the primarily affected senses of hearing and vision, ie, optometry, orthoptics and audiology. Methods A prospective cross-sectional online survey of clinicians working in Australian university-affiliated clinics (7 optometry, 1 orthoptics and 4 audiology) was completed between September 2021 and January 2022. Questions were asked about the cause, common symptoms, and awareness of health professions who manage Usher syndrome. Results The 27 audiologists, 40 optometrists, and 7 orthoptists who completed the survey included 53 females (71.6%), had an average age of 37 years (range 24-70), and had an average duration of clinical experience of 13 years (range 1-45 years). The majority of respondents correctly identified Usher syndrome as a genetic condition (86%), identified at least two of the affected senses (97%), and identified the progressive nature of the vision and hearing losses (>90%). Awareness of vestibular dysfunction and its characteristics was low, as was knowledge of the key treatment roles that speech pathologists, genetic counsellors and geneticists play in the management of Usher Syndrome. The majority of respondents also did not identify important aspects of care within their own discipline. Conclusion This study has shown that there is a need for targeted education to be delivered to hearing and vision care allied health clinicians to raise awareness of the vestibular impacts and aspects of vision loss experienced by people with Usher syndrome. This education needs to target the broad range of clinicians who have a key role in providing multidisciplinary care (including speech pathologists, geneticists, and genetic counsellors) and to identify the key aspects of good-quality multidisciplinary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren N Ayton
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Karyn L Galvin
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Fleur O’Hare
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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24
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Crellin E, Martyn M, McClaren B, Gaff C. What matters to parents? A scoping review of parents' service experiences and needs regarding genetic testing for rare diseases. Eur J Hum Genet 2023:10.1038/s41431-023-01376-y. [PMID: 37308600 PMCID: PMC10400618 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01376-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Patient care experiences are key to promoting better outcomes and are an essential consideration for successful implementation of genomics in paediatric care. To understand parents' service experiences and needs regarding testing of their child for rare diseases, we conducted a scoping review. Five databases were searched (2000-2022), with 29 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Experiences of care wholly delivered by genetic services were most commonly reported (n = 11). Results were synthesised by mapping extracted data to adapted Picker principles of person-centred care. Parents especially valued and emphasised the importance of feeling 'cared for', continuous relationships with clinicians, empathic communication, being kept informed while awaiting genetic test results, linkage with informational and psychosocial resources following results disclosure, and follow-up. Strategies were often proposed by authors to address long-standing unmet needs but evidence from the literature regarding their potential effectiveness was rarely provided. We conclude that 'what matters' to parents regarding genetic testing is not dissimilar to other aspects of care. Paediatric medical specialists have existing skill sets, trusted relationships and can apply familiar principles of 'good' care to enhance experiences of genetic testing. The lack of evidence for service improvement strategies highlights the pressing need to undertake rigorous design and testing of interventions alongside mainstreaming of genomics into paediatric care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Crellin
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Melissa Martyn
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Belinda McClaren
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Clara Gaff
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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25
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Shirdelzade S, Ramezani M, Eshraghi P, Heydari A. Mothers' lived experience of caring for children with inborn errors of amino acid metabolism. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:285. [PMID: 37286966 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-03946-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inborn errors of amino acid metabolism are chronic conditions that have many sequels. Mothers of these children are facing different challenges which are underdetermined. This study was done to explore lived experience of mothers caring for these children. METHODS This is an interpretive phenomenology with van Manen's approach which has 6 steps. Data were gathered by convenience and purposeful sampling. Nine mothers with different experiences were interviewed and the interviews were audiotaped. RESULTS Six final themes were revealed from the exploring mothers' experiences including the future tied to the past, psychosis in the shadow of a lost ideal child, rebellion and blaming, the ways of escaping difficulties, self-forgetting in the shadow of full-time care, passing difficulties in the duality of hope-hopelessness, caring in a continuum of isolation-socialization. CONCLUSION Mothers have multiple challenges in taking care of their children, especially psychologically and financially. So, nurses must plan programs for helping mothers of children with inborn errors of amino acid metabolism to reduce the effects of disease on mothers and consequently the children and the whole family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Shirdelzade
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Monir Ramezani
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Peyman Eshraghi
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abbas Heydari
- Department of Pediatric and Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Khorasan Razavi Province, Iran.
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Beadell I, Byun M, Feller H, Ferrie M, Best S. Co-designing interventions to 'live well': experiences and perceptions of the Genetic, Undiagnosed and Rare Disease (GUaRD) community. J Community Genet 2023:10.1007/s12687-023-00643-1. [PMID: 37000401 PMCID: PMC10063929 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-023-00643-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Genetic, Undiagnosed and Rare Disease community faces a range of hurdles to live their 'best life' including physical, social and psychological barriers. They are also resilient and experiential experts with insight into what works and what could work for them. In this study, we aimed to identify and prioritise practical interventions the Genetic, Undiagnosed and Rare Disease community report could help them to 'live well'. Using a three-stage approach, we first analysed data from a year-long Genetic, Undiagnosed and Rare Disease journal study to record all the practical interventions reported, either trialled or proposed. Second, after grouping the interventions (n = 19) into four themes (support for individuals with GUaRD; support for carers of people with GUaRD; education/employment; transition), we presented the interventions to members of the GUaRD community (people with GUaRD, their carers and peer support group members) across three focus groups (n = 13). Focus group transcripts were analysed for refinements to the interventions, barriers and/or enablers to enacting them and for any additional interventions suggested. From this analysis, the interventions were grouped to identify specific actionable activities (n = 8). Finally, these eight interventions were discussed in a workshop with the GUaRD Community Advisory Group and prioritised using the APEASE framework. Prioritised interventions targeted a range of stakeholders and included creating a lived experience video library, supporting peer support groups with grant applications, and educating clinicians about referring to peer support groups. Further research is now required to test these findings before trialling and evaluating an intervention to measure the impact on the GUaRD community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inez Beadell
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Malia Byun
- California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Hollie Feller
- Genetic Support Network Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Monica Ferrie
- Genetic Support Network Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephanie Best
- Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
- Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Alliance, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
- Australian Genomics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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Priolo M, Tartaglia M. The Right to Ask, the Need to Answer-When Patients Meet Research: How to Cope with Time. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4573. [PMID: 36901584 PMCID: PMC10002068 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Reaching a diagnosis and its communication are two of the most meaningful events in the physician-patient relationship. When facing a disease, most of the patients' expectations rely on the hope that their clinicians would be able to understand the cause of their illness and eventually end it. Rare diseases are a peculiar subset of conditions in which the search for a diagnosis might reveal a long and painful journey scattered by doubts and requiring, in most cases, a long waiting time. For many individuals affected by a rare disease, turning to research might represent their last chance to obtain an answer to their questions. Time is the worst enemy, threatening to disrupt the fragile balance among affected individuals, their referring physicians, and researchers. It is consuming at all levels, draining economic, emotional, and social resources, and triggering unpredictable reactions in each stakeholder group. Managing waiting time is one of the most burdensome tasks for all the parties playing a role in the search for a diagnosis: the patients and their referring physicians urge to obtain a diagnosis in order to know the condition they are dealing with and establish proper management, respectively. On the other hand, researchers need to be objective and scientifically act to give a rigorous answer to their demands. While moving towards the same goal, patients, clinicians, and researchers might have different expectations and perceive the same waiting time as differently hard or tolerable. The lack of information on mutual needs and the absence of effective communication among the parties are the most common mechanisms of the failure of the therapeutic alliance that risk compromising the common goal of a proper diagnosis. In the landscape of modern medicine that goes faster and claims high standards of cure, rare diseases represent an exception where physicians and researchers should learn to cope with time in order to care for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Priolo
- Unità di Genetica Medica, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Genetica Molecolare e Genomica Funzionale, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
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Skweres-Kuchta M, Czerska I, Szaruga E. Literature Review on Health Emigration in Rare Diseases-A Machine Learning Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2483. [PMID: 36767849 PMCID: PMC9915846 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The article deals with one of the effects of health inequalities and gaps in access to treatments for rare diseases, namely health-driven emigration. The purpose of the paper is to systematize knowledge about the phenomenon of health emigration observed among families affected by rare diseases, for which reimbursed treatment is available, but only in selected countries. The topic proved to be niche; the issue of "health emigration in rare diseases" is an area for exploration. Therefore, the further analysis used text mining and machine learning methods based on a database selected based on keywords related to this issue. The results made it possible to systematize the guesses made by researchers in management and economic fields, to identify the most common keywords and thematic clusters around the perspective of the patient, drug manufacturer and treatment reimbursement decision-maker, and the perspective integrating all the others. Since the topic of health emigration was not directly addressed in the selected sources, the authors attempted to define the related concepts and discussed the importance of this phenomenon in managing the support system in rare diseases. Thus, they indicated directions for further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Skweres-Kuchta
- Department of Organization and Management, Institute of Management, University of Szczecin, Cukrowa 8 Street, 71-004 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Iwona Czerska
- Department of Marketing Research, Faculty of Management, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, 118/120 Komandorska Str, 53-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Szaruga
- Department of Transport Management, Institute of Management, University of Szczecin, Cukrowa 8 Street, 71-004 Szczecin, Poland
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Teutsch S, Zurynski Y, Eslick GD, Deverell M, Christodoulou J, Leonard H, Dalkeith T, Johnson SLJ, Elliott EJ. Australian children living with rare diseases: health service use and barriers to accessing care. World J Pediatr 2023:10.1007/s12519-022-00675-6. [PMID: 36653598 PMCID: PMC9848027 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00675-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with rare diseases experience challenges at home and school and frequently require multi-disciplinary healthcare. We aimed to determine health service utilization by Australian children with rare diseases and barriers to accessing healthcare. METHODS Parents completed an online survey on health professional and emergency department (ED) presentations, hospitalization, and barriers to accessing services. Potential barriers to service access included residential location (city, regional, remote) and child health-related functioning, determined using a validated, parent-completed measure-of-function tool. RESULTS Parents of 462 children with over 240 rare diseases completed the survey. Compared with the general population, these children were more likely to be hospitalized [odds ratio (OR) = 17.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 15.50-19.20] and present to the ED (OR = 4.15, 95% CI = 3.68-4.68) or a family physician (OR = 4.14, 95% CI = 3.72-4.60). Child functional impairment was nil/mild (31%), moderate (48%) or severe (22%). Compared to children with nil/mild impairment, those with severe impairment were more likely to be hospitalized (OR = 13.39, 95% CI = 7.65-23.44) and present to the ED (OR = 11.16, 95% CI = 6.46-19.27). Most children (75%) lived in major cities, but children from regional (OR = 2.78, 95% CI = 1.72-4.55) and remote areas (OR = 9.09, 95% CI = 3.03-25.00) experienced significantly more barriers to healthcare access than children from major cities. Barriers included distance to travel, out-of-pocket costs, and lack of specialist medical and other health services. CONCLUSIONS Children with rare diseases, especially those with severe functional impairment have an enormous impact on health services, and better integrated multidisciplinary services with patient-centered care are needed. Access must be improved for children living in rural and remote settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzy Teutsch
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
| | - Yvonne Zurynski
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Center for Healthcare Resilience and Implementation Science, and NHMRC Partnership Centre in Health System Sustainability, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Guy D Eslick
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Marie Deverell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Government Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John Christodoulou
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Troy Dalkeith
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Sandra L J Johnson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth J Elliott
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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Afolabi MO, Kelly LE. Non-static framework for understanding adaptive designs: an ethical justification in paediatric trials. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2022; 48:825-831. [PMID: 34362828 PMCID: PMC9626916 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2021-107263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Many drugs used in paediatric medicine are off-label. There is a rising call for the use of adaptive clinical trial designs (ADs) in responding to the need for safe and effective drugs given their potential to offer efficiency and cost-effective benefits compared with traditional clinical trials. ADs have a strong appeal in paediatric clinical trials given the small number of available participants, limited understanding of age-related variability and the desire to limit exposure to futile or unsafe interventions. Although the ethical value of adaptive trials has increasingly come under scrutiny, there is a paucity of literature on the ethical dilemmas that may be associated with paediatric adaptive designs (PADs). This paper highlights some of these ethical concerns around safety, scientific/social value and caregiver/guardian comprehension of the trial design. Against this background, the paper develops a non-static conceptual lens for understanding PADs. It shows that ADs are epistemically open and reduce some of the knowledge-associated uncertainties inherent in clinical trials as well as fast-track the time to draw conclusions about the value of evaluated drugs/treatments. On this note, the authors argue that PADs are ethically justifiable given they (1) have multiple layers of safety, exposing enrolled children to lesser potential risks, (2) create social/scientific value generally and for paediatric populations in particular, (3) specifically foster the flourishing of paediatric populations and (4) can significantly improve paediatric trial efficiency when properly designed and implemented. However, because PADs are relatively new and their regulatory, ethical and logistical characteristics are yet to be clarified in some jurisdictions, the cooperation of various public and private stakeholders is required to ensure that the interests of children, their caregivers and parents/guardians are best served while exposing paediatric research subjects to the most minimal of risks when they are enrolled in paediatric trials that use ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Os Afolabi
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Lauren E Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- George & Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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31
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Flores A, Burgos S, Abarca-Barriga H. Knowledge level of medical students and physicians about rare diseases in Lima, Peru. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2022; 11:180-188. [PMID: 36457581 PMCID: PMC9709623 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2022.01079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare diseases (RDs) affect up to 8% of the world's population, and unfortunately, health professionals have a low level of knowledge regarding the impacts of RDs on the social, psychological, and economic spheres of the patients and their families; hence, RD management is inadequate, consistently empirical, and precarious. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge level of the medical students from a non-state university and physicians from Lima, Peru of RDs through a virtual survey for an analytical cross-sectional study. A total of 338 medical students and 382 physicians were surveyed. Results showed that several of the respondents (68.1% of students and 48.7% of physicians) had heard of the term "rare disease", but only a few stated that they had received any kind of training specific to it. Of the physicians, 46.6% considered that there should be a course about RDs in medical curricula, and more than 60% considered RDs a public health problem. Most respondents prioritized the planning of a higher budget for common diseases and believe it is convenient to allocate a specific fund for RDs. More than half of the participants had a very poor knowledge level. Due to students and physicians' low level of general knowledge of RDs, it is important to raise awareness and improve their education about these pathologies because this will have beneficial effects for RD patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Flores
- Faculty of Human Medicine, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | - Sarah Burgos
- Faculty of Human Medicine, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | - Hugo Abarca-Barriga
- Faculty of Human Medicine, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú
- Department of Genetic & Inborn Error of Metabolism, Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño - Breña, Lima, Perú
- Address correspondence to:Hugo Hernán Abarca Barriga, Universidad Científica del Sur, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Panamericana Sur Km 19, Villa, Perú. E-mail:
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Francisco R, Alves S, Gomes C, Granjo P, Pascoal C, Brasil S, Neves A, Santos I, Miller A, Krasnewich D, Morava E, Lam C, Jaeken J, Videira PA, dos Reis Ferreira V. A Participatory Framework for Plain Language Clinical Management Guideline Development. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13506. [PMID: 36294089 PMCID: PMC9603256 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical management guidelines (CMGs) are decision support tools for patient care used by professionals, patients, and family caregivers. Since clinical experts develop numerous CMGs, their technical language hinders comprehension and access by nonmedical stakeholders. Additionally, the views of affected individuals and their families are often not incorporated into treatment guidelines. We developed an adequate methodology for addressing the needs and preferences of family and professional stakeholders regarding CMGs, a recently developed protocol for managing congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), a family of rare metabolic diseases. We used the CDG community and phosphomannomutase 2 (PMM2)-CDG CMGs as a pilot to test and implement our methodology. RESULTS We listened to 89 PMM2-CDG families and 35 professional stakeholders and quantified their CMG-related needs and preferences through an electronic questionnaire. Most families and professionals rated CMGs as relevant (86.5% and 94.3%, respectively), and valuable (84.3% and 94.3%, respectively) in CDG management. The most identified challenges were the lack of CMG awareness (50.6% of families) and the lack of plain language CMG (39.3% of professionals). Concordantly, among families, the most suggested solution was involving them in CMG development (55.1%), while professionals proposed adapting CMGs to include plain language (71.4%). Based on these results, a participatory framework built upon health literacy principles was created to improve CMG comprehension and accessibility. The outputs are six complementary CMG-related resources differentially adapted to the CDG community's needs and preferences, with a plain language PMM2-CDG CMG as the primary outcome. Additionally, the participants established a distribution plan to ensure wider access to all resources. CONCLUSIONS This empowering, people-centric methodology accelerates CMG development and accessibility to all stakeholders, ultimately improving the quality of life of individuals living with a specific condition and raising the possibility of application to other clinical guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Francisco
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Susana Alves
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Sci and Volunteer Program from NOVA School of Science and Technology/FCT NOVA, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, 2825-149 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Catarina Gomes
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Sci and Volunteer Program from NOVA School of Science and Technology/FCT NOVA, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, 2825-149 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Pedro Granjo
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Sci and Volunteer Program from NOVA School of Science and Technology/FCT NOVA, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, 2825-149 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Carlota Pascoal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Sandra Brasil
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Alice Neves
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Sci and Volunteer Program from NOVA School of Science and Technology/FCT NOVA, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, 2825-149 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Inês Santos
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Sci and Volunteer Program from NOVA School of Science and Technology/FCT NOVA, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, 2825-149 Setúbal, Portugal
| | | | - Donna Krasnewich
- National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Eva Morava
- Department of Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Metabolic Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7622 Pecs, Hungary
| | - Christina Lam
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Jaak Jaeken
- Centre of Metabolic Diseases, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paula A. Videira
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Vanessa dos Reis Ferreira
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- CDG & Allies—Professionals and Patient Associations International Network (CDG & Allies-PPAIN), Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
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von der Lippe C, Neteland I, Feragen KB. Children with a rare congenital genetic disorder: a systematic review of parent experiences. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:375. [PMID: 36253830 PMCID: PMC9575260 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02525-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caring for a child with a chronic disease may be demanding and stressful. When a child has a rare condition, the impact of care on parents is amplified due to the rarity of the diagnosis. In order to address the lack of generalized and synthesized knowledge regarding parents' experiences of having a child with a rare genetic disorder, and give a holistic picture of these experiences, a systematic review of the available qualitative research was conducted. METHODS We performed a systematic review, including qualitative studies on parents of children with rare genetic disorders, published between 2000 and 2020. RESULTS The review included 33 qualitative studies. Findings were synthesized and categorized according to three main themes: Parents' experiences with health care, Responsibilities and challenges, and Factors promoting positive experiences in parents. The findings demonstrate that parents of children with rare genetic disorders share many common challenges, despite evident differences across conditions. CONCLUSION Coordinated care, and a more holistic approach in the follow up of children with rare genetic disorders is needed. International collaboration on research, diagnostics, producing scientific correct and understandable information available for health care professionals and lay people should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte von der Lippe
- Centre for Rare Disorders, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, P.B. 4950, 0424, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ingrid Neteland
- Centre for Rare Disorders, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, P.B. 4950, 0424, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristin Billaud Feragen
- Centre for Rare Disorders, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, P.B. 4950, 0424, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
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Wiegand-Grefe S, Liedtke A, Morgenstern L, Hoff A, Csengoe-Norris A, Johannsen J, Denecke J, Barkmann C, Grolle B, Daubmann A, Wegscheider K, Boettcher J. Health-Related Quality of Life and mental health of families with children and adolescents affected by rare diseases and high disease burden: the perspective of affected children and their siblings. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:596. [PMID: 36229869 PMCID: PMC9563162 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03663-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Advances in genetic and pharmaceutical technology and pediatric care have enabled treatment options for an increasing number of rare diseases in affected children. However, as current treatment options are primarily of palliative nature, the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and mental health of this impaired population and their siblings are of increasing importance. Among children and adolescents with rare diseases, those who are technology-dependent carry a high disease burden and are selected as the target population in our study. In a cross-sectional observational design, the children’s HRQoL was assessed with the DISABKIDS (DCGM-37) as well as KIDSCREEN-27, while mental health was assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) by both the affected children, their parents, and siblings. Results Results of the study sample were compared to normative data. Affected children scored significantly lower than the norm on almost all HRQoL subscales as reported by parent and child. From the parental perspective, more mental health subscales were significantly impaired compared to the child’s perspective. Siblings showed no impairment in HRQoL as well as significantly fewer behavioral problems and higher prosocial behavior regarding their mental health compared to the norm. Conclusion Children and adolescents with rare diseases seem particularly impaired in social and emotional aspects of HRQoL and mental health. Interventions may focus primarily on promoting social skills, fostering prosocial behavior and peer relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Wiegand-Grefe
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Anna Liedtke
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lydia Morgenstern
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antonia Hoff
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anikó Csengoe-Norris
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jessika Johannsen
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Denecke
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claus Barkmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Grolle
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Daubmann
- Department of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karl Wegscheider
- Department of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Boettcher
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.
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Jahanshahi R, Nasirzadeh A, Farzan M, Domaradzki J, Jouybari L, Sanagoo A, Farzan M, Aghazadeh-Habashi K, Fallah Faraghe A, Bagheri S, Samiee M, Ansari A, Eskandari K, Namakkoobi N, Soltanimoghadam F, Mashali H, Yavari E, Bay S, Memaripanah N, Meftah E, Amanzadeh S, Talati F, Bahramzadeh S. Iranian future healthcare professionals' knowledge and opinions about rare diseases: cross-sectional study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:366. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1186/s13023-022-02458-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Rare diseases are a new global health priority, requiring evidence-based estimates of the global prevalence of diseases to inform public policymakers and provide a serious challenge to the healthcare system that must not be ignored. The purpose of this study is to investigate Iranian future healthcare professionals' knowledge and opinions about rare diseases.
Results
A total of 6838 students responded to the questionnaire. Nursing and medical students had the highest participation. Almost 85% of participants rated their knowledge about rare diseases as poor or insufficient. While nearly 70 percent of participants took courses about rare diseases at university. Finally, 72.7% of future healthcare professionals did not feel ready to take care of a patient with a rare disease.
Conclusion
The present study has indicated a gap in Iranian medical students’ knowledge of rare diseases. The researchers believe that health science policymakers should make a joint effort to improve knowledge about rare diseases. Including courses with regard to rare diseases would be of benefit to future healthcare professionals.
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36
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Jahanshahi R, Nasirzadeh A, Farzan M, Domaradzki J, Jouybari L, Sanagoo A, Farzan M, Aghazadeh-Habashi K, Fallah Faraghe A, Bagheri S, Samiee M, Ansari A, Eskandari K, Namakkoobi N, Soltanimoghadam F, Mashali H, Yavari E, Bay S, Memaripanah N, Meftah E, Amanzadeh S, Talati F, Bahramzadeh S. Iranian future healthcare professionals' knowledge and opinions about rare diseases: cross-sectional study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:366. [PMID: 36175905 PMCID: PMC9524105 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02458-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rare diseases are a new global health priority, requiring evidence-based estimates of the global prevalence of diseases to inform public policymakers and provide a serious challenge to the healthcare system that must not be ignored. The purpose of this study is to investigate Iranian future healthcare professionals' knowledge and opinions about rare diseases.
Results A total of 6838 students responded to the questionnaire. Nursing and medical students had the highest participation. Almost 85% of participants rated their knowledge about rare diseases as poor or insufficient. While nearly 70 percent of participants took courses about rare diseases at university. Finally, 72.7% of future healthcare professionals did not feel ready to take care of a patient with a rare disease.
Conclusion The present study has indicated a gap in Iranian medical students’ knowledge of rare diseases. The researchers believe that health science policymakers should make a joint effort to improve knowledge about rare diseases. Including courses with regard to rare diseases would be of benefit to future healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Jahanshahi
- Clinical Research Development Unit (CRDU), Sayad Shirazi Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Amirreza Nasirzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahan Farzan
- Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Leila Jouybari
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Akram Sanagoo
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran. .,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
| | - Mahour Farzan
- Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | | | - Ahmadreza Fallah Faraghe
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Sadegh Bagheri
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Samiee
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, The School of Allied Medicine Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arina Ansari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Kimia Eskandari
- Student Research Committee, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Negar Namakkoobi
- Student Research Committee, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | | | - Hadi Mashali
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Erfan Yavari
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Bay
- Student Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Memaripanah
- Student Research Committee, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Elahe Meftah
- Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Amanzadeh
- Students Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Talati
- Department of Nutrition, Islamic Azad University, Sarvestan Branch, Sarvestan, Iran
| | - Sasan Bahramzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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Krantz M, Malm E, Darin N, Sofou K, Savvidou A, Reilly C, Boström P. Parental experiences of having a child with CLN3 disease (juvenile Batten disease) and how these experiences relate to family resilience. Child Care Health Dev 2022; 48:842-851. [PMID: 35233790 PMCID: PMC9541062 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CLN3 disease is a neurodegenerative condition presenting in the first decade of life typically leading to death in the third decade. The earliest symptom is rapidly progressive visual impairment followed by intellectual and motor impairments, epilepsy and behavioural disturbances. There are limited data on how the condition affects the family system or the role of family resilience in paediatric neurodegenerative diseases. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight parents (five mothers and three fathers) of five children with CLN3. Interview questions focused on the experience of having a child with CLN3, its impact on the family system as well as the concept of family resilience. Data were analysed via thematic analysis. RESULTS The thematic analysis resulted in four main themes. The theme 'recurring losses' included the feeling of losing a healthy child, the child's loss of abilities and loss of relationships. The theme 'disruption to the family system' included that siblings could be 'side-lined', the potential negative impact on romantic relationships and difficulties finding time to oneself. The theme 'Society is not developed for a progressive disease' highlighted the difficulties parents faced with respect to contacts with the health and/or social insurance system. The paediatric health care system was seen as supportive, but the adult health care system was not seen as fit for the purpose. Regarding family resilience, parents felt that the disease forced them to reconsider what was important in life. Several parents described that they learned to value small moments of joy and create deep connections through involvement in family routines and rituals. CONCLUSIONS CLN3 places a very significant burden on the family system including parental feelings of loss, impact on family relationships and lack of understanding within the health/social insurance systems. The concept of family resilience may be useful in understanding the experiences of families affected by paediatric neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Krantz
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Emma Malm
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Niklas Darin
- Department of PediatricsInstitute of Clinical SciencesUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden,Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Kalliopi Sofou
- Department of PediatricsInstitute of Clinical SciencesUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden,Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Antri Savvidou
- Department of PediatricsInstitute of Clinical SciencesUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden,Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Colin Reilly
- Department of PediatricsInstitute of Clinical SciencesUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden,Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Petra Boström
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
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Hatem S, Long JC, Best S, Fehlberg Z, Nic Giolla Easpaig B, Braithwaite J. Mobile Apps for People With Rare Diseases: Review and Quality Assessment Using Mobile App Rating Scale. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e36691. [PMID: 35881435 PMCID: PMC9364167 DOI: 10.2196/36691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile apps are becoming increasingly popular, with 5.70 million apps available in early 2021. Smartphones can provide portable and convenient access to health apps. Here, we consider apps for people with one of the estimated 7000 rare conditions, which are defined as having an incidence of <1 in 2000. The needs of people with rare conditions are known to be different from those of people with more common conditions. The former may be socially isolated (not knowing anyone else who has the condition) and may not be able to find reliable information about the disorder. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to search for apps developed specifically for people diagnosed with a rare disease and to assess them for quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). We examine features that address 6 identified needs of people with a rare disorder and make recommendations for future developers. METHODS Google Play Store (Android) and Apple App Store (iOS) were searched for relevant health-related apps specifically for rare diseases. The search included the names of 10 rare disease groups. App quality was determined using MARS, assessing app engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information. RESULTS We found 29 relevant apps (from a total of 2272) addressing 14 rare diseases or disease groups. The most common rare conditions addressed were cystic fibrosis (n=6), hemophilia (n=5), and thalassemia (n=5). The most common app features were web-based information and symptom trackers. The mean MARS score was 3.44 (SD 0.84). Lowest scores were for engagement. CONCLUSIONS Most apps provided factual and visual information, providing tools for self-monitoring and resources to help improve interactions during health consultations. App origin and quality varied greatly. Developers are recommended to consider ways to make appropriate apps more easily identifiable to consumers, to always include high-quality information, improve engagement, provide qualitative evaluations of the app, and include consumers and clinicians in the design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hatem
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Australia
| | - Janet C Long
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Australia
| | - Stephanie Best
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Australia.,Australian Genomics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Zoe Fehlberg
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Australia.,Australian Genomics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Jeffrey Braithwaite
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Australia
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Bozaci AE, Yazici H, Canda E, Uçar SK, Guvenc MS, Berdeli A, Habif S, Coker M. Long-term follow-up of alkaptonuria patients: single center experience. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2022; 35:913-923. [PMID: 35671204 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2022-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Alkaptonuria is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder resulting from the deficiency of homogentisate 1,2 dioxygenase (HGD), the third enzyme in the tyrosine degradation pathway. Homogentisic acid produced in excess oxidizes into ochronotic pigment polymer. Accumulation of this pigment in various tissues leads to systemic disease. METHODS Clinical, laboratory, molecular findings and treatment characteristics of 35 patients followed up in Ege University Pediatric Nutrition, and Metabolism Department with the diagnosis of alkaptonuria were evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS Twenty-four males (68.57%) and 11 females (31.42%) with a confirmed diagnosis of alkaptonuria from 32 different families were included in the study. We identified 11 different genetic variants; six of these were novel. c.1033C>T, c.676G>A, c.664G>A, c.731_734del, c.1009G>T, c.859_862delins ATAC were not previously reported in the literature. 24 (68.57%) patients only adhered to a low-protein diet in our study group. Seven (20%) patients initiated a low protein diet and NTBC therapy. Mean urinary HGA decreased by 88.7% with nitisinone. No statistical changes were detected in urinary HGA excretion with the low protein diet group. CONCLUSIONS In our study, alkaptonuria patients were diagnosed at different ages, from infancy to adulthood, and progressed with other systemic involvement in the follow-up. Since the initial period is asymptomatic, giving potentially effective treatment from an early age is under discussion. Raising disease awareness is very important in reducing disease mortality and morbidity rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Ergul Bozaci
- Department of Pediatrics, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Metabolism, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Havva Yazici
- Department of Pediatrics, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Metabolism, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ebru Canda
- Department of Pediatrics, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Metabolism, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sema Kalkan Uçar
- Department of Pediatrics, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Metabolism, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Merve Saka Guvenc
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tepecik Research and Training Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Afig Berdeli
- Department of Molculer Genetics, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sara Habif
- Department of Biochemistry, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Coker
- Department of Pediatrics, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Metabolism, Izmir, Turkey
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Segura-Bedmar I, Camino-Perdones D, Guerrero-Aspizua S. Exploring deep learning methods for recognizing rare diseases and their clinical manifestations from texts. BMC Bioinformatics 2022; 23:263. [PMID: 35794528 PMCID: PMC9258216 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-022-04810-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background and objective
Although rare diseases are characterized by low prevalence, approximately 400 million people are affected by a rare disease. The early and accurate diagnosis of these conditions is a major challenge for general practitioners, who do not have enough knowledge to identify them. In addition to this, rare diseases usually show a wide variety of manifestations, which might make the diagnosis even more difficult. A delayed diagnosis can negatively affect the patient’s life. Therefore, there is an urgent need to increase the scientific and medical knowledge about rare diseases. Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Deep Learning can help to extract relevant information about rare diseases to facilitate their diagnosis and treatments.
Methods
The paper explores several deep learning techniques such as Bidirectional Long Short Term Memory (BiLSTM) networks or deep contextualized word representations based on Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) to recognize rare diseases and their clinical manifestations (signs and symptoms).
Results
BioBERT, a domain-specific language representation based on BERT and trained on biomedical corpora, obtains the best results with an F1 of 85.2% for rare diseases. Since many signs are usually described by complex noun phrases that involve the use of use of overlapped, nested and discontinuous entities, the model provides lower results with an F1 of 57.2%.
Conclusions
While our results are promising, there is still much room for improvement, especially with respect to the identification of clinical manifestations (signs and symptoms).
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Healthcare Burden of Rare Diseases: A Population-Based Study in Tuscany (Italy). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137553. [PMID: 35805212 PMCID: PMC9265803 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Patients with rare diseases (RDs) need tailored, continuous, and multidisciplinary hospital care. This retrospective cohort study aimed to analyse the healthcare burden of RD patients using a multi-database approach, by linking the data of the Rare Diseases Registry of Tuscany with the regional hospital discharge database. The study population included 21,354 patients diagnosed with a RD between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2017. The healthcare burden was evaluated for all the RDs during 2009–2018 period. The hospitalisation rate (per 1000) decreased over the years, ranging from 606.9 in 2009 (95% CI: 589.2–625.0) to 443.0 in 2018 (95% CI: 433.2–453.0). A decrease in the average length of stay (LOS) was observed in the earlier years, followed by an increase up to a steady trend (8.3 days in 2018). The patients with RDs of metabolism and the genitourinary system showed the highest hospitalisation rate (903.3 and 644.0 per 1000, respectively). The patients with rare immune system disorders and diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue showed the highest LOS (9.7 and 9.5 days, respectively). The methodological approach presented in this population-based study makes it possible to estimate the healthcare burden of RDs, which is crucial in the decision-making and planning aimed at improving patient care.
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Belzer LT, Wright SM, Goodwin EJ, Singh MN, Carter BS. Psychosocial Considerations for the Child with Rare Disease: A Review with Recommendations and Calls to Action. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9070933. [PMID: 35883917 PMCID: PMC9325007 DOI: 10.3390/children9070933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Rare diseases (RD) affect children, adolescents, and their families infrequently, but with a significant impact. The diagnostic odyssey undertaken as part of having a child with RD is immense and carries with it practical, emotional, relational, and contextual issues that are not well understood. Children with RD often have chronic and complex medical conditions requiring a complicated milieu of care by numerous clinical caregivers. They may feel isolated and may feel stigmas in settings of education, employment, and the workplace, or a lack a social support or understanding. Some parents report facing similar loneliness amidst a veritable medicalization of their homes and family lives. We searched the literature on psychosocial considerations for children with rare diseases in PubMed and Google Scholar in English until 15 April 2022, excluding publications unavailable in full text. The results examine RD and their psychosocial ramifications for children, families, and the healthcare system. The domains of the home, school, community, and medical care are addressed, as are the implications of RD management as children transition to adulthood. Matters of relevant healthcare, public policies, and more sophisticated translational research that addresses the intersectionality of identities among RD are proposed. Recommendations for interventions and supportive care in the aforementioned domains are provided while emphasizing calls to action for families, clinicians, investigators, and advocacy agents as we work toward establishing evidence-based care for children with RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslee T. Belzer
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health, Section of Pediatric Psychology, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; (S.M.W.); (E.J.G.); (B.S.C.)
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, The Beacon Program, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64111, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-816-960-2849
| | - S. Margaret Wright
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; (S.M.W.); (E.J.G.); (B.S.C.)
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, The Beacon Program, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64111, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Emily J. Goodwin
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; (S.M.W.); (E.J.G.); (B.S.C.)
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, The Beacon Program, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64111, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Mehar N. Singh
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA;
| | - Brian S. Carter
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; (S.M.W.); (E.J.G.); (B.S.C.)
- Department of Medical Humanities & Bioethics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Bioethics Center, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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Bauskis A, Strange C, Molster C, Fisher C. The diagnostic odyssey: insights from parents of children living with an undiagnosed condition. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:233. [PMID: 35717227 PMCID: PMC9206122 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02358-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People living with rare disease often have protracted journeys towards diagnosis. In the last decade, programs have arisen around the world that are dedicated to ending this ‘diagnostic odyssey’, including the Undiagnosed Diseases Program Western Australia (UDP-WA), which has a focus on finding diagnoses for children and young adults. To explore the lived experience of the diagnostic journey semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of 11 children at commencement of their involvement in the UDP-WA. Results Thematic analysis revealed three main themes that captured parents’ experiences and perspectives. Parents reported (i) the need to respond to significant care needs of their children, which span not only the health system but other systems such as education and disability services. In doing so, parents become the navigator, expert and advocate for their children. Meanwhile, parents are on (ii) the diagnostic odyssey—the rollercoaster of their journey towards diagnosis, which includes various names applied to their child’s condition, and the impact of no diagnosis. Parents described their views on (iii) the value of a diagnosis and the outcomes they expect to be associated with a diagnosis. Conclusion Analysis showed an overall significant perceived value of a diagnosis. Our study provides new perspectives on the concept of diagnosis and indicates that parents may benefit from supports for their child’s care needs that are beyond the scope of the UDP-WA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Bauskis
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Western Australia Department of Health, 189 Royal Street, East Perth, WA, 6004, Australia.
| | - Cecily Strange
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Caron Molster
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Western Australia Department of Health, 189 Royal Street, East Perth, WA, 6004, Australia
| | - Colleen Fisher
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
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Benito-Lozano J, Arias-Merino G, Gómez-Martínez M, Ancochea-Díaz A, Aparicio-García A, Posada de la Paz M, Alonso-Ferreira V. Diagnostic Process in Rare Diseases: Determinants Associated with Diagnostic Delay. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116456. [PMID: 35682039 PMCID: PMC9180264 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Many people living with rare disease (RD) report a difficult diagnostic process from the symptom onset until they obtain the definitive diagnosis. The aim of this study was thus to ascertain the diagnostic process in RDs, and explore the determinants related with having to wait for more than one year in this process (defined as “diagnostic delay”). We conducted a case–control study, using a purpose-designed form from the Spanish Rare Diseases Patient Registry for data-collection purposes. A descriptive analysis was performed and multivariate backward logistic regression models fitted. Based on data on 1216 patients living with RDs, we identified a series of determinants associated with experiencing diagnostic delay. These included: having to travel to see a specialist other than that usually consulted in the patient’s home province (OR 2.1; 95%CI 1.6–2.9); visiting more than 10 specialists (OR 2.6; 95%CI 1.7–4.0); being diagnosed in a region other than that of the patient’s residence at the date of symptom onset (OR 2.3; 95%CI 1.5–3.6); suffering from a RD of the nervous system (OR 1.4; 95%CI 1.0–1.8). In terms of time taken to see a specialist, waiting more than 6 months to be referred from the first medical visit was the period of time which most contributed to diagnostic delay (PAR 30.2%). In conclusion, this is the first paper to use a collaborative study based on a nationwide registry to address the diagnostic process of patients living with RDs. While the evidence shows that the diagnostic process experienced by these persons is complex, more studies are needed to determine the implications that this has for their lives and those of their families at a social, educational, occupational, psychological, and financial level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Benito-Lozano
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.B.-L.); (G.A.-M.); (M.G.-M.); (M.P.d.l.P.)
- Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28015 Madrid, Spain
| | - Greta Arias-Merino
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.B.-L.); (G.A.-M.); (M.G.-M.); (M.P.d.l.P.)
| | - Mario Gómez-Martínez
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.B.-L.); (G.A.-M.); (M.G.-M.); (M.P.d.l.P.)
| | | | - Aitor Aparicio-García
- The State Reference Center for Assistance to People Living with Rare Diseases and Their Families (CREER), Centro de Referencia Estatal de Atención a Personas con Enfermedades Raras y sus Familias, Dependiente del IMSERSO, 09001 Burgos, Spain;
| | - Manuel Posada de la Paz
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.B.-L.); (G.A.-M.); (M.G.-M.); (M.P.d.l.P.)
| | - Verónica Alonso-Ferreira
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.B.-L.); (G.A.-M.); (M.G.-M.); (M.P.d.l.P.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-91-822-2089
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Zhou L, Xu J, Yang J. Poor education and urgent information need for emergency physicians about rare diseases in China. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:211. [PMID: 35619153 PMCID: PMC9137093 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02354-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rare diseases are serious and chronic diseases that affect no more than 1 person in 2000 (in European Union criteria). Patients suffering from RDs may come to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms, such as acute aortic dissection, intracranial haemorrhage, and severe respiratory distress. Diagnostic delay of rare disease patients is common and often caused by low rare disease awareness among physicians. The main aim of this study was to investigate Chinese emergency physicians' basic knowledge, information access and educational needs regarding rare diseases. An online questionnaire was completed by Chinese emergency physicians during January and March 2021. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 539 emergency physicians, including 200 females and 339 males, responded to the questionnaire-based study. More than half of the respondents were from Tertiary A hospitals and had engaged in medical clinical work for more than 10 years. Only 4.27% of respondents correctly estimated the prevalence of rare diseases. A few respondents knew the exact number of RDs in the first official list of rare diseases in 2018. A total of 98.5% of respondents rated their knowledge about rare diseases as minimal or insufficient. Most emergency physicians preferred to obtain information through search engines instead of specialized websites on rare diseases. A lack of practice guidelines or consensus was considered the most important reason for the diagnostic delay of RD. Practice guidelines or consensus and professional websites on rare diseases are urgently needed for emergency physicians. CONCLUSION The investigation shows poor knowledge of rare diseases among emergency physicians. Practice guidelines and professional websites on rare diseases were the primary urgent needs for emergency physicians. Specialized RD courses should also be added to medical education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Zhou
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Spencer-Tansley R, Meade N, Ali F, Simpson A, Hunter A. Mental health care for rare disease in the UK - recommendations from a quantitative survey and multi-stakeholder workshop. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:648. [PMID: 35568910 PMCID: PMC9107210 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08060-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rare disease patients and carers report significant impacts on mental health but studies on UK populations have focussed on relatively few, specific conditions. Collectively rare conditions represent a substantial health burden, with an estimated 3.5 million affected individuals in the UK. Method We explored the impact on mental health of living with a rare condition, and experiences of health service support, through an online survey. The survey assessed the impact of specific experiences commonly reported by those affected by a rare condition through multiple choice questions and Likert scale items, and open text question boxes. Through a multi-stakeholder workshop that involved facilitated discussion of our findings with patients/carers, clinicians and a government advisor, we developed recommendations for policy and practice toward a more person-centred and integrated approach. Results Eligible responses came from 1231 patients and 564 carers. Due to their rare condition, the majority of respondents (> 90%) had felt worried/anxious; stressed; and /or low/depressed. Thirty-six percent of patients and 19% of carers had had suicidal thoughts. Challenges that are particular to rare conditions and which negatively affect mental health included limited knowledge of the condition amongst healthcare professionals (88%), and not being believed or taken seriously by them. Only 23% of respondents felt healthcare professionals considered mental and physical health as equally important. Almost half reported never having been asked about mental health by healthcare professionals. Our findings indicate that access to, and appropriateness of, professional psychological support needs to be improved. Peer group support is important but signposting is inadequate. Our recommendations are for healthcare professionals to be supported to effectively and sensitively recognise and address patients’ and carers’ mental health needs; and for service level coordination of care to integrate professional psychological support with rare disease services. Conclusion Living with a rare disease substantially impacts mental health. Many of the drivers of poor mental health reflect issues specific to managing rare conditions. To meet UK government commitments, there should be a focus on empowering healthcare professionals who treat rare disease patients and on integration of mental health support with rare disease services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nick Meade
- Genetic Alliance UK, Creative Works, Blackhorse Lane, London, E17 6DS, UK
| | - Farhana Ali
- Genetic Alliance UK, Creative Works, Blackhorse Lane, London, E17 6DS, UK
| | - Amy Simpson
- Genetic Alliance UK, Creative Works, Blackhorse Lane, London, E17 6DS, UK
| | - Amy Hunter
- Genetic Alliance UK, Creative Works, Blackhorse Lane, London, E17 6DS, UK.
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47
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Honingh AK, Kruithof YL, Kuper WFE, van Hasselt PM, Sterkenburg PS. Towards Understanding Behaviour and Emotions of Children with CLN3 Disease (Batten Disease): Patterns, Problems and Support for Child and Family. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105895. [PMID: 35627432 PMCID: PMC9141744 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The juvenile variant of Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CLN3 disease/Batten disease) is a rare progressive brain disease in children and young adults, characterized by vision loss, decline in cognitive and motor capacities and epilepsy. Children with CLN3 disease often show disturbed behaviour and emotions. The aim of this study is to gain a better understanding of the behaviour and emotions of children with CLN3 disease and to examine the support that the children and their parents are receiving. A combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis was used to analyse patient files and parent interviews. Using a framework analysis approach a codebook was developed, the sources were coded and the data were analysed. The analysis resulted in overviews of (1) typical behaviour and emotions of children as a consequence of CLN3 disease, (2) the support children with CLN3 disease receive, (3) the support parents of these children receive, and (4) the problems these parents face. For a few children their visual, physical or cognitive deterioration was found to lead to specific emotions and behaviour. The quantitative analysis showed that anxiety was reported for all children. The presented overviews on support contain tacit knowledge of health care professionals that has been made explicit by this study. The overviews may provide a lead to adaptable support-modules for children with CLN3 disease and their parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline K. Honingh
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Correspondence:
| | - Yvonne L. Kruithof
- Special Education Visually Impaired Children, Bartiméus, 3703 AJ Zeist, The Netherlands;
| | - Willemijn F. E. Kuper
- Department of Metabolic Diseases, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3508 AB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (W.F.E.K.); (P.M.v.H.)
| | - Peter M. van Hasselt
- Department of Metabolic Diseases, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3508 AB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (W.F.E.K.); (P.M.v.H.)
| | - Paula S. Sterkenburg
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Special Education Visually Impaired Children, Bartiméus, 3703 AJ Zeist, The Netherlands;
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48
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Zanello G, Chan CH, Pearce DA. Recommendations from the IRDiRC Working Group on methodologies to assess the impact of diagnoses and therapies on rare disease patients. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:181. [PMID: 35526001 PMCID: PMC9078009 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02337-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare disease patients face many challenges including diagnostic delay, misdiagnosis and lack of therapies. However, early access to diagnosis and therapies can modify the management and the progression of diseases, which in return positively impacts patients, families and health care systems. The International Rare Diseases Research Consortium set up the multi-stakeholder Working Group on developing methodologies to assess the impact of diagnoses and therapies on rare disease patients. Using the patients' journey on the diagnostic paradigm, the Working Group characterized a set of metrics, tools and needs required for appropriate data collection and establishment of a framework of methodologies to analyze the socio-economic burden of rare diseases on patients, families and health care systems. These recommendations are intended to facilitate the development of methodologies and to better assess the societal impact of rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David A Pearce
- Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104, USA. .,Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, SD, 57117, USA. .,Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA.
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49
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Deverell M, Phu A, Elliott EJ, Teutsch SM, Eslick GD, Stuart C, Murray S, Davis R, Dalkeith T, Christodoulou J, Zurynski YA. Health-related out-of-pocket expenses for children living with rare diseases - tuberous sclerosis and mitochondrial disorders: A prospective pilot study in Australian families. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:611-617. [PMID: 34704652 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM We aimed to describe health-related out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses incurred by Australian families living with children with chronic and complex diseases. METHODS A prospective pilot study of OOP expenses in families with children with tuberous sclerosis (TS) or mitochondrial disorders (MD) in 2016-2017. An initial survey assessed the family's financial situation, child's health functioning and estimated previous 6 months' and lifetime OOP expenses. Thereafter, families completed a survey each month for 6 months, prospectively tracking OOP expenses. RESULTS Initial surveys were completed by 13 families with 15 children; median age 7 years (range: 1-12); 5 with MD, 10 with TS. All families reported OOP expenses: 38% paid $2000 per annum, more than double the annual per-capita OOP costs reported for Australia by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Eight families estimated $5000-$25 000 in OOP expenses over their child's lifetime and 62% of mothers reduced or stopped work due to caring responsibilities. Eleven families paid annual private health insurance premiums of $2000-$5122, but 72% said this was poor value-for-money. Prospective tracking by eight families (9 children) identified the median OOP expenditure was $863 (range $55-$1398) per family for 6 months. OOP spending was associated with visits to allied health professionals, non-prescription medicines, special foods, supplements and disposable items. Eight families paid for 91 prescription medications over 6 months. CONCLUSION All families caring for children with TS or MD reported OOP expenses. A larger study is needed to explore the affordability of health care for children living with a broader range of chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Deverell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research Institute, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Clinical Excellence Division, Government Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Amy Phu
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research Institute, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth J Elliott
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research Institute, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suzy M Teutsch
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research Institute, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Guy D Eslick
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research Institute, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Clare Stuart
- Tuberous Sclerosis Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sean Murray
- Australian Mitochondrial Disorders Foundation, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Davis
- Australian Mitochondrial Disorders Foundation, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Troy Dalkeith
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Christodoulou
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yvonne A Zurynski
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Kids Research Institute, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,NHMRC Partnership Centre in Health System Sustainability, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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50
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Isono M, Kokado M, Kato K. Why does it take so long for rare disease patients to get an accurate diagnosis?—A qualitative investigation of patient experiences of hereditary angioedema. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265847. [PMID: 35303740 PMCID: PMC8932585 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Many patients with rare diseases experience a diagnostic delay. Although several quantitative studies have been reported, few studies have used a qualitative approach to directly examine how patients with rare disease obtain a diagnosis and why it takes many years. In this study, we focused on hereditary angioedema (HAE), which has been reported to have long diagnostic delays, despite the knowledge that not having an accurate diagnosis can cause life-threatening problems. Objective The objective of this study was to analyze patients’ experiences and elucidate why it takes a long time to reach a diagnosis of HAE. We also aimed to propose possible solutions for the problem. Methods A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. Nine patients who took over 5 years from the presentation of initial symptoms to an HAE diagnosis participated. The contents of the interviews were subjected to an inductive contents analysis. Results By analyzing the patients’ struggles that were experienced during the undiagnosed period, three themes were generated: (1) acceptance and resignation towards their conditions, (2) proactive search for a cause, and (3) independent efforts outside of the hospital. While a few patients continued to seek out a diagnosis during the undiagnosed period, many had become accustomed to their health condition without suspecting a rare disease. Conclusions We found that one of the most important factors related to the prolonged undiagnosed period is the lack of suspicion of a rare disease by patients and their medical professionals. While current policies tend to focus on the period from suspecting rare diseases to the time of a clear diagnosis, our results strongly suggest that measures are needed to facilitate patients and clinicians to become aware of rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moeko Isono
- Department of Biomedical Ethics and Public Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Minori Kokado
- Department of Biomedical Ethics and Public Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kazuto Kato
- Department of Biomedical Ethics and Public Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- * E-mail:
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