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Nakagawa TA. Organ recovery from preterm infants following circulatory death: The tiniest package might hold the greatest gift. Am J Transplant 2023; 23:1092-1093. [PMID: 37037377 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Nakagawa
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, College of Medicine-Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
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2
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Bluhme E, Henckel E, Jorns C. Potential of neonatal organ donation and outcome after transplantation. Pediatr Transplant 2023; 27:e14486. [PMID: 36792069 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Organ transplantation is limited by access to suitable organs. Infant recipient waitlist mortality is increased due to the scarcity of size-matched organs. Neonatal organ donors have been proposed as an underutilized source of donor organs. However, the literature on the actual prevalence and outcome of neonatal organ donation and transplantation is fragmented and not well analyzed. This literature review aims to summarize the available literature on the potential of neonatal organ donation and to analyze published cases of neonatal organ transplantation. A systematic search of the Medline and Cochrane databases yielded 2964 articles, which were screened for eligibility. In total, 86 articles were considered eligible, of which 34 were included in the literature review: 8 articles describing the potential of neonatal organ donation programs, and 26 articles describing clinical transplantation. Current evidence suggests there is a large pool of potential neonatal organ donors. In contrast, the literature on neonatal organ donor utilization is sparse. However, case series of successful kidney, heart, liver, hepatocyte, and multivisceral transplantation using organs from neonatal donors are summarized. Although good posttransplant organ function was achieved, the use of neonatal organs is associated with increased risk of thrombosis in both kidney and liver transplantation. Neonatal organ donation is a promising alternative for expanding the current donor pool. Experience is limited, but reported patient and graft survival are acceptable and more research on the subject is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Bluhme
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Transplantation, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ewa Henckel
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neonatology, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl Jorns
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Transplantation, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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3
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Fernández-Fructuoso JR, Gil-Sánchez FJ, Sáez-Miravete S, Pina-Molina JM, Fuentes-Gutiérrez C, Lloreda-García JM, Olmo-Sánchez M, Mañas-Uxo MI, García-González A, Leante-Castellanos JL. Implementation of a neonatal donation protocol in the neonatal intensive care unit: A single-center experience. Pediatr Transplant 2022; 26:e14403. [PMID: 36165676 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of specific protocols for neonatal donation contributes to the rarity of neonatal donors. In this study, we evaluate the impact of the implementation of a neonatal donation protocol in our NICU. METHODS In this single-center study, we conducted a retrospective chart review of neonatal deaths in our NICU from January 2013 to January 2022. The study was divided into two periods: before and after the implementation of a neonatal donation protocol. The referral rates of potential neonatal donors to the OPO in the two periods were compared using the chi-square test. A p value < .05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Sixty-four infants were reviewed. Seven (10.9%) met the inclusion criteria for potential neonatal donors after DCC. The referral rate of potential neonatal donors increased from 2.5% to 16.7% after the implementation of this protocol (p = .041), and one infant (4.1%) became an effective heart-valve donor. CONCLUSION The implementation of a local neonatal donation protocol could have contributed to increase the referral rate of potential neonatal donors in our NICU. Following the implementation of a local neonatal donation protocol, we were able to perform a heart-valve donation for the first time in our unit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Salvadora Sáez-Miravete
- Intensive Care Unit, Donor Coordination Unit, Hospital General Universitario Santa Lucía, Cartagena, Spain
| | - José Miguel Pina-Molina
- Pediatric Emergency Department, Hospital General Universitario Santa Lucía, Cartagena, Spain
| | | | | | - María Olmo-Sánchez
- Neonatology Unit, Hospital General Universitario Santa Lucía, Cartagena, Spain
| | | | - Ana García-González
- Neonatology Unit, Hospital General Universitario Santa Lucía, Cartagena, Spain
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4
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Najafi-Ghalehlou N, Feizkhah A, Mobayen M, Pourmohammadi-Bejarpasi Z, Shekarchi S, Roushandeh AM, Roudkenar MH. Plumping up a Cushion of Human Biowaste in Regenerative Medicine: Novel Insights into a State-of-the-Art Reserve Arsenal. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022. [PMID: 35505177 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10383-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Major breakthroughs and disruptive methods in disease treatment today owe their thanks to our inch by inch developing conception of the infinitive aspects of medicine since the very beginning, among which, the role of the regenerative medicine can on no account be denied, a branch of medicine dedicated to either repairing or replacing the injured or diseased cells, organs, and tissues. A novel means to accomplish such a quest is what is being called “medical biowaste”, a large assortment of biological samples produced during a surgery session or as a result of physiological conditions and biological activities. The current paper accentuating several of a number of promising sources of biowaste together with their plausible applications in routine clinical practices and the confronting challenges aims at inspiring research on the existing gap between clinical and basic science to further extend our knowledge and understanding concerning the potential applications of medical biowaste.
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5
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Caserío S, Arnaez J. Eligible neonatal donors after circulatory determination of death (Maastricht type III): A national survey of level III NICUs. Pediatr Transplant 2022; 26:e14129. [PMID: 34472170 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organ donation continues to increase worldwide, but in general paediatric patients remain less likely to receive a transplant. The inclusion of neonates as donors after cDCD should be considered in an effort to increase donation rates. METHODS The survey for a cross-sectional national study of potential cDCD neonatal donors (Maastricht type III) was sent to all 90 level III Spanish neonatal units to explore: 1) protocols, education, and specific opinions on donation and 2) potential cDCD that could have been eligible over a 2-year period (2014-2015). RESULTS Forty-five centers (50%) completed the survey, and 38/45 gave information about potential eligible donors. In 16% of the centers specific protocols on neonatal donation exist. All hospitals demanded more specific training, and 65% noted that the donation process could be a problem in the family's dismissal of the child. During the study period 46 805 neonates were admitted in the 38 centers, and 625 neonates died. Ninety-five born at a gestational age ≥34 weeks and above 2000 gr died after an EoL decision, 38 (40%) and 13 (14%) of them due to neonatal encephalopathy and multiple congenital anomalies, respectively. There were 31 (33%) elegible infants who died in less than 120 min due to pathologies that did not contraindicate donation. CONCLUSIONS Neonatal cDCD could help to reduce the gap between the supply of and demand for organs according to the potentially eligible patients emerging from this study. Training in EoL and donation processes should be provided to healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Caserío
- Neonatology, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.,NeNe Foundation, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Arnaez
- NeNe Foundation, Madrid, Spain.,Neonatology, Complejo Universitario de Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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Sasaki K, Nair A, Firl DJ, McVey JC, El-Gazzaz G, Diago Uso T, Fujiki M, Aucejo FN, Quintini C, Kwon CD, Hashimoto K, Miller CM, Eghtesad B. Should We Be Utilizing More Liver Grafts From Pediatric Donation After Circulatory Death Donors? A National Analysis of the SRTR from 2002 to 2017. Transplantation 2021; 105:1998-2006. [PMID: 32947583 DOI: 10.1097/TP.0000000000003458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rates of withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment are higher among critically ill pediatric patients compared to adults. Therefore, livers from pediatric donation after circulatory death (pDCD) could improve graft organ shortage and waiting time for listed patients. As knowledge on the utilization of pDCD is limited, this study used US national registry data (2002-2017) to estimate the prognostic impact of pDCD in both adult and pediatric liver transplant (LT). METHODS In adult LT, the short-term (1-year) and long-term (overall) graft survival (GS) between pDCD and adult donation after circulatory death (aDCD) grafts was compared. In pediatric LT, the short- and long-term prognostic outcomes of pDCD were compared with other type of grafts (brain dead, split, and living donor). RESULTS Of 80 843 LTs in the study, 8967 (11.1%) were from pediatric donors. Among these, only 443 were pDCD, which were utilized mainly in adult recipients (91.9%). In adult recipients, short- and long-term GS did not differ significantly between pDCD and aDCD grafts (hazard ratio = 0.82 in short term and 0.73 in long term, both P > 0.05, respectively). Even "very young" (≤12 y) pDCD grafts had similar GS to aDCD grafts, although the rate of graft loss from vascular complications was higher in the former (14.0% versus 3.6%, P < 0.01). In pediatric recipients, pDCD grafts showed similar GS with other graft types whereas waiting time for DCD livers was significantly shorter (36.5 d versus 53.0 d, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Given the comparable survival seen to aDCDs, this data show that there is still much scope to improve the utilization of pDCD liver grafts.
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Dame C, von der Hude K, Kliemann M, Rösner B, Bührer C, Garten L. [... because We Should not Forget! Neonatal Organ Donation]. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol 2021; 225:366-370. [PMID: 34384134 DOI: 10.1055/a-1509-3688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Obwohl sich fast 40% aller Todesfälle im Kindes- und Jugendalter während der Neugeborenenperiode ereignen, kommt es in der Neonatologie nur selten zur Organspende. Wir berichten über ein Neugeborenes, bei dem nach perinataler Asphyxie der endgültige, nicht behebbare Ausfall der Gesamtfunktion des Großhirns, des Kleinhirns und des Hirnstamms ("Hirntod") gemäß Transplantationsgesetz diagnostiziert wurde. Das Herz wurde nach der sogenannten zweiten richtliniengemäßen "Hirntoddiagnostik" zur Organspende entnommen und erfolgreich transplantiert. Besondere juristische Herausforderungen ergaben sich aus dem Umstand der anonymen Geburt, den notwendigen Regelungen der Vormundschaft sowie der Zuordnung des Totenfürsorgerechts. Medizinisch standen die speziellen Regelungen der Diagnostik des irreversiblen Hirnfunktionsausfalls bei Neugeborenen und der optimale Erhalt der Organfunktion vor Entnahme im Vordergrund. Für die Pflegenden stellte sich der Ablauf grundlegend anders dar als bei einer Therapiezieländerung mit anschließender palliativen Versorgung in Anwesenheit der Eltern. Angesichts der großen emotionalen Herausforderungen erwiesen sich die Einbindung aller Beteiligten in die Entscheidungsabläufe und die Übernahme der besonderen Verantwortung als hilfreich.Although almost 40% of all deaths prior to 18 years of age occur within the neonatal period, organ donation is rare in neonatology. Herein we report about a newborn infant with perinatal asphyxia and permanent, irreversible loss of brain function (cerebrum, cerebellum and brain stem), managed according to the criteria and instructions defined by the German law of donor organ transplantation. After confirmation of irreversible loss of brain function, the heart was successfully transplanted. Specific legal challenges resulted from the instance of an anonymous birth, the guardianship required, and the specific regulations of welfare of the deceased individual. The most prominent medical challenges consisted in the specific regulatory purposes for the diagnosis of the irreversible loss of brain function in neonates and the optimal maintenance of organ functions prior to donation. From the nursing point of view, the proceeding differed entirely compared to redirection of care into palliation while parents are present. Involving all stakeholders in every step of decision making was regarded as emotionally helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christof Dame
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Kerstin von der Hude
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Markus Kliemann
- Region Nord-Ost, Deutsche Stiftung Organtransplantation, Frankfurt, Deutschland
| | - Bianka Rösner
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Christoph Bührer
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Lars Garten
- Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
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8
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Fortney CA. Noteworthy Professional News. Adv Neonatal Care 2021; 21:171-3. [DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000000900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Spaulding AB, Zagel AL, Cutler GJ, Brown A, Zier JL. Organ Donation Authorization After Brain Death Among Patients Admitted to PICUs in the United States, 2009-2018. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2021; 22:303-311. [PMID: 33332867 DOI: 10.1097/pcc.0000000000002648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify trends in and factors associated with pediatric organ donation authorization after brain death. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of data from Virtual Pediatric Systems, LLC (Los Angeles, CA). SETTING Data from 123 PICUs reporting to Virtual Pediatric Systems from 2009 to 2018. PATIENTS Patients less than 19 years old eligible for organ donation after brain death. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of 2,777 eligible patients, 1,935 (70%) were authorized for organ donation; the authorization rate remained unchanged over time (ptrend = 0.22). In a multivariable logistic regression model, hospitalizations lasting greater than 7 days had lower odds of authorization (adjusted odds ratio, 0.5; p < 0.001 vs ≤ 1 d) and White patients had higher odds than other race/ethnicity groups. Authorization was higher for trauma-related encounters (adjusted odds ratio, 1.5; p < 0.001) and when donation was discussed with an organ procurement organization coordinator (adjusted odds ratio, 1.7; p < 0.001). Of 123 hospitals, 35 (28%) met or exceeded a 75% organ donation authorization target threshold; these hospitals more often had an organ procurement organization coordinator discussing organ donation (85% vs 72% of encounters; p < 0.001), but no difference was observed by PICU bed size. CONCLUSIONS Organ donation authorization after brain death among PICU patients was associated with length of stay, race/ethnicity, and trauma-related encounter, and authorization rates were higher when an organ procurement organization coordinator was involved in the donation discussion. This study identified factors that could inform initiatives to improve the authorization process and increase pediatric organ donation rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia L Zagel
- Children's Minnesota Research Institute, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | - Angela Brown
- Critical Care Department, Children's Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Judith L Zier
- Critical Care Department, Children's Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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10
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Vileito A, Hulzebos CV, Toet MC, Baptist DH, Verhagen EAA, Siebelink MJ. Neonatal donation: are newborns too young to be recognized? Eur J Pediatr 2021; 180:3491-3497. [PMID: 34105002 PMCID: PMC8589733 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04139-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal organ and tissue donation is not common practice in the Netherlands. At the same time, there is a transplant waiting list for small size-matched organs and tissues. Multiple factors may contribute to low neonatal donation rates, including a lack of awareness of this option. This study provides insight into potential neonatal organ and tissue donors and reports on how many donors were actually reported to the procurement organization. We performed a retrospective analysis of the mortality database and medical records of two largest neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in the Netherlands. This study reviewed records of neonates with a gestational age >37 weeks and weight >3000g who died in the period from January 1, 2005 through December 31, 2016. During the study period, 259 term-born neonates died in the two NICUs. In total, 132 neonates with general contra-indications for donation were excluded. The medical records of 127 neonates were examined for donation suitability. We identified five neonates with documented brain death who were not recognized as potential organ and/or tissue donors. Of the remaining neonates, 27 were found suitable for tissue donation. One potential tissue donor had been reported to the procurement organization. In three cases, the possibility of donation was brought up by parents.Conclusion: A low proportion (2%) of neonates who died in the NICUs were found suitable for organ donation, and a higher proportion (12%) were found suitable for tissue donation. We suggest that increased awareness concerning the possibility of neonatal donation would likely increase the identification of potential neonatal donors. What is Known: • There is an urgent need for very small organs and tissues from neonatal donors What is New: • A number of neonates who died in the NICU were suitable organ or/and tissue donors but were not recognized as donors. • Knowledge on neonatal donation possibilities is also important for proper counseling of parents who sometimes inquire for the possibility of organ and tissue donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicija Vileito
- Department of Neonatology, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Christian V. Hulzebos
- Department of Neonatology, Beatrix Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mona C. Toet
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dyvonne H. Baptist
- Department of Neonatology, Beatrix Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eduard A. A. Verhagen
- Department of Neonatology, Beatrix Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marion J. Siebelink
- University Medical Center Groningen Transplant Center, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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11
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Trottier A, Maitre G, Hébert A, Weiss MJ. Potential Heart, Liver, and Kidney Donation after Circulatory Determination of Death in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Neonatology 2021; 118:546-552. [PMID: 34352783 DOI: 10.1159/000517660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric organ donation after circulatory determination of death (DCD) has increased in recent years; however, there are few data reporting the number of neonatal potential DCD organ donors and no Canadian-specific reports. OBJECTIVE The main objective of this study was to estimate the number of patients who may have become actual DCD organ donors from a single, tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) over 5 years. METHODS We reviewed all medical charts of newborns ≥2.5 kg, who died in our center's NICU from January 2013 to December 2017. We determined how many could have become actual organ donors after brain death (DBD) or DCD based on 3 sets of organ-specific eligibility criteria defined as conservative, standard, and liberal. RESULTS Of the 39 deceased patients, none met the criteria for DBD. Twenty-nine (75%) died after the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies. According to the conservative criteria, 1 patient would have been eligible for kidneys and liver donation. Three patients met standard criteria for kidneys and 1 for liver. Eight patients would have been eligible donors for kidneys, 7 for liver, and 2 for heart according to liberal criteria. Only 2 patients were evaluated for DCD, and no organ donation was performed. CONCLUSIONS While uncommon, we identified potential DCD organ donors in the NICU population for kidney, heart, and liver transplants. The substantial variability in the number of potential donors depending on the selected eligibility criteria emphasizes the need for a standardized definition adapted to local capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Trottier
- Department of Pediatrics, University Laval, Medicine faculty, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, Emergency Unit, CHU Ste-Justine, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Guillaume Maitre
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, McGill University Health Center, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Division of Pediatrics, Department "Woman-Mother-Child", Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Biology and Medicine faculty, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Audrey Hébert
- Department of Pediatrics, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, CHU de Québec, Centre Mère-Enfant Soleil, University Laval, Medicine faculty, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Matthew J Weiss
- Division of Pediatric Intensive Care, Department of Pediatrics, Centre Mère-Enfant Soleil du CHU de Québec, University Laval, Medicine faculty, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Transplant Québec, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Varley R, Piscoran O, Picton M, Moinuddin Z, van Dellen D, Augustine T. Kidney Transplantation From a 5-Day-Old Donor With a Single Functioning Kidney. EXP CLIN TRANSPLANT 2020; 18:732-736. [PMID: 33187465 DOI: 10.6002/ect.2020.0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Kidney transplant restores renal function in eligible patients with end-stage renal failure who require renal replacement therapy. There remains a significant disparity between the demand and supply of suitable kidneys for transplant. In recent years, pediatric donors have formed an important area for expansion of the donor pool. However, neonatal donation (< 28 days) remains an underutilized resource. We describe a case of en bloc kidney transplant from a 5-day-old donor after circulatory death into an adult recipient. One kidney thrombosed almost immediately, leaving a single 4.5-cm, poorly functioning kidney. Eighteen months after transplant, the recipient has shown good function with the estimated glomerular filtration rate continuing to improve. This case demonstrates that a single neonatal kidney can grow and adapt to provide adequate renal function in an adult. This experience suggests that a single kidney from a neonate can sustain renal function in adults, and every effort should be made to maximize their use in transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Varley
- From the Department of Renal and Pancreas Transplantation, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Unitek Kingdom
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13
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Thong WY, Chong PH, Koh PL, Loh WNH, Tay SKH. First pediatric organ donation after circulatory determination of death in Singapore: Facing challenges in the absence of a local practice guideline. Pediatr Transplant 2020; 24:e13740. [PMID: 32447823 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric organ donation represents only a low proportion of overall organ donation in many parts of world, unable to match the needs for pediatric organ transplantation. Pediatric organ donation after circulatory determination of death (DCD) is increasingly explored in pediatric transplantation, as it increases the availability of organ grafts. A 6-year-old Caucasian boy with a history of arteriovenous malformation presented with a catastrophic intracranial bleed, resulting in severe brainstem dysfunction despite maximal medical and surgical measures. He did not fulfill the criteria for brain death, which must be met for pediatric organ donation in Singapore. Due to parental request, his organs were donated after withdrawal of life support and determination of death by circulatory criteria. Pediatric organ DCD poses many challenges in the pediatric population, especially in the absence of a local practice guideline. We present the first case of a pediatric organ DCD that has occurred in Singapore. Further work is needed, particularly in establishing a national policy for pediatric organ DCD and increasing overall awareness and acceptance toward pediatric organ donations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yi Thong
- Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Pediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Pei Lin Koh
- Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Pediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Will Ne-Hooi Loh
- Department of Anesthesia, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Stacey Kiat-Hong Tay
- Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Pediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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14
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Aghion A, Hussey-Gardner B, Davis NL, Falck AJ. Patient and provider factors impacting referral for neonatal organ donation. Pediatr Transplant 2020; 24:e13744. [PMID: 32478967 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As determination of brain death is infrequent in neonates, the AAP endorses donation after circulatory determination of death as an acceptable alternative. Despite this recommendation, neonatal organ donation is infrequent. Timely referral to OPOs is a vital first step in the organ donation process. The aim of this study was to identify patient and provider factors impacting timely referral for neonatal organ donation. METHODS Medical records were reviewed for deaths occurring in a Level IV NICU from 2007 to 2017. Clinical and demographic factors, provider type, timing of OPO referral (before or after death), and outcome were assessed. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to identify predictors of OPO referral characteristics. RESULTS Between 2007 and 2017, 329 deaths occurred in the NICU or delivery room. Of the 265 infants meeting inclusion criteria, 96% had late referrals (after death) and were declined for organ donation. Frequency of timely referrals (before death) improved when OPO contact was by an attending neonatologist, when withdrawal of life support was planned, and with increasing birthweight, gestational age, and PMA. Factors associated with decreased OPO referral included male sex, lower weight at death, earlier PMA, and deaths occurring while receiving maximal intensive care support. No organs or tissues were donated. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to report NICU referral patterns for organ donation. We found that timely provider referral of neonates to the OPO was rare. Exploration of provider knowledge will guide future educational interventions aimed to improve the referral process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Aghion
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brenda Hussey-Gardner
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Natalie L Davis
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alison J Falck
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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15
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Abstract
In the realm of clinical ethics as well as in health policy and organizational ethics, the onus of our work as ethicists is to optimize the medical care and experience of the patient to better target ethical dilemmas that develop in the course of care delivery. The role of ethics is critical in all aspects of medicine, but particularly so in the difficult and often challenging cases that arise in the care of pregnant women and newborns. One exemplary situation is that when a pregnant woman and her partner consider neonatal organ donation after receiving news of a terminal diagnosis and expected death of the newborn. While a newer, less practiced form of organ donation, this approach is gaining greater visibility as an option for parents facing this terminal outcome. The aim of our paper is to highlight some of the key ethical issues associated with neonatal organ donation and identify clinical and logistical aspects of implementing such an approach to facilitate organ donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M U Ahmad
- Center for Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - R M Farrell
- Center for Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - K L Weise
- Center for Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Pediatric Institute, Cleveland Clinic Children's, Cleveland, OH, USA
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16
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Anderson M, Youngner S, Smith RD, Nandyal RR, Orlowski JP, Jessie Hill B, Barsman SG. Neonatal Organ and Tissue Donation for Research: Options Following Death by Natural Causes. Cell Tissue Bank 2020; 21:289-302. [PMID: 32166424 PMCID: PMC7223177 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-020-09822-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The donation of organs and tissues from neonates (birth to 28 days) for transplantation has been a relatively infrequent occurrence. Less common has been the use of neonatal organs and tissues for research. Specific ethical and legal questions beg for rational and transparent guidelines with which to evaluate referrals of potential donors. Donation of organs and tissues from a neonate can play a key role in the care and support provided to families by health care professionals around the time of a neonate's death. We report on the recovery of neonatal organs and tissues for research. A working group made up of bioethicists, neonatologists, lawyers, obstetric practioners as well as organ procurement and tissue banking professionals evaluated legal, ethical and medical issues. Neonatal donor family members were also consulted. Our primary goals were (a) to ensure that referrals were made in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, regulations and institutional protocols, and (b) to follow acceptable ethical standards. Algorithms and policies designed to assist in the evaluation of potential neonatal donors were developed. Neonatal donation is proving increasingly valuable for research into areas including diabetes, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and neurological development, rheumatoid arthritis, autism, childhood psychiatric and neurologic disorders, treatment of MRSA infection and pediatric emergency resuscitation. The development of policies and procedures will assist medical professionals who wish to offer the option of donation to family members anticipating the death of a neonate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stuart Youngner
- Department of Bioethics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-4976 USA
| | - Regina Dunne Smith
- International Institute for Advancement of Medicine, Romansville, PA USA
| | - Raja R. Nandyal
- Department of Neonatology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA
| | | | - B. Jessie Hill
- School of Law, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
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17
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Khalid K, Ku Md Saad S, Abd Ghani NA, Mohamed Abdul Kadher AN. Religious and cultural challenges in paediatrics palliative care: A review of literature. Pediatric Hematology Oncology Journal 2019; 4:67-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phoj.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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18
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Bratton SL, Zollinger CM. Bereaved ICU parental end-of-life care goals: including organ donation regardless of eligibility. Arch Dis Child 2019; 104:823-824. [PMID: 31129563 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2019-317214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Bratton
- Department of Critical Care, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Charles M Zollinger
- Department of Clinical Services, Intermountain Donor Services, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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19
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Weiss MJ, Sherry W, Hornby L. Pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death (pDCD): A narrative review. Paediatr Respir Rev 2019; 29:3-8. [PMID: 29716830 DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric donation after circulatory death (pDCD) is an established pathway for organ donation. It remains, however, a relatively rare event worldwide, and most clinicians outside of the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) are unfamiliar with it. The goal of this review is to introduce the processes and concepts of pDCD. While most children die in circumstances that would not allow pDCD, many children that die after withdrawal of life sustaining therapy (WLST) may be eligible for donation of some organs. The potential benefits of this practice to patients on the wait list are well known, but donation can also be an opportunity to honor a patient's or family's desire to altruistically improve the lives of others. Offering the possibility of donation requires careful attention to ethical principles to ensure that conflicts of interest are avoided and that the family is free to make an independent, fully informed decision. Doing so allows families and decision makers the autonomy to decide if donation is something they wish to incorporate into end-of-life care.
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20
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Arnaez J, Tejedor JC, Caserío S, Montes MT, Moral MT, González de Dios J, García-Alix A. Bioethics in end-of-life decisions in neonatology: Unresolved issues. An Pediatr (Barc) 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpede.2017.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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21
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Arnaez J, Gómez F, Caserío S. Pediatric donation after controlled cardiac death (Maastricht type III donors). Med Intensiva 2017; 41:386. [PMID: 28089166 DOI: 10.1016/j.medin.2016.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Arnaez
- Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatal, Hospital Universitario de Burgos, Burgos, España.
| | - F Gómez
- Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos, Hospital Universitario de Burgos, Burgos, España
| | - S Caserío
- Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales, Hospital Universitario Río Hortega, Valladolid, España. Fundación NeNe, España
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22
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Abstract
This review discusses an approach to determining the cause of neonatal encephalopathy, as well as current evidence on resuscitation and subsequent management of hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE). Encephalopathy in neonates can be due to varied aetiologies in addition to hypoxic-ischaemia. A combination of careful history, examination and the judicious use of investigations can help determine the cause. Over the last 7 years, infants with moderate to severe HIE have benefited from the introduction of routine therapeutic hypothermia; the number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome is 7 (95% CI 5 to 10). More recent research has focused on optimal resuscitation practices for babies with cardiorespiratory depression, such as delayed cord clamping after establishment of ventilation and resuscitation in air. Around a quarter of infants with asystole at 10 min after birth who are subsequently cooled have normal outcomes, suggesting that individualised decision making on stopping resuscitation is needed, based on access to intensive treatment unit and early cooling. The full benefit of cooling appears to have been exploited in our current treatment protocols of 72 hours at 33.5°C; deeper and longer cooling showed adverse outcome. The challenge over the next 5-10 years will be to assess which adjunct therapies are safe and optimise hypothermic brain protection in phase I and phase II trials. Optimal care may require tailoring treatments according to gender, genetic risk, injury severity and inflammatory status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Martinello
- Department of Neonatology, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, UK
| | - Anthony R Hart
- Department of Neonatal and Paediatric Neurology, Sheffield Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sufin Yap
- Department of Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Sheffield Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Subhabrata Mitra
- Department of Neonatology, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, UK
| | - Nicola J Robertson
- Department of Neonatology, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, UK
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23
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Abstract
Paediatric organ donation represents a small fraction of overall organ donation in Australia and New Zealand and indeed world-wide. Many factors contribute to low donation rates including low paediatric intensive care mortality, consent rates and medical suitability relating to disease, age and size. In the past decade, the re-emergence of donation after circulatory death has changed the landscape for the paediatric population. This article reviews the current status and challenges of organ donation for the paediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Gelbart
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Royal Children's Hospital, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, DonateLife, Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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24
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Arnaez J, Tejedor JC, Caserío S, Montes MT, Moral MT, González de Dios J, García-Alix A. [Bioethics in end-of-life decisions in neonatology: Unresolved issues]. An Pediatr (Barc) 2017; 87:356.e1-356.e12. [PMID: 28476218 DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2017.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This document is the result of previous work carried out by different expert groups and submitted to multidisciplinary debate at a Conference about controversial, deficient, or new aspects in the field of neonatal palliative care, such as: 1) the deliberative decision-making process, 2) hospital and domiciliary palliative care, 3) donation after controlled cardiac death, and 4) moral stress in professionals. The most relevant conclusions were: the need to instruct professionals in bioethics and in the deliberative method to facilitate thorough and reasonable decision-making; the lack of development in the field of perinatal palliative care and domiciliary palliative care in hospitals that attend newborns; the need to provide neonatal units with resources that help train professionals in communication skills and in the management of moral distress, as well as delineate operational procedure and guidelines for neonatal organ donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Arnaez
- Unidad de Neonatología, Hospital Universitario de Burgos, Fundación NeNe, Burgos, España.
| | | | - Sonia Caserío
- Unidad de Neonatología, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Fundación NeNe, Valladolid, España
| | | | - María Teresa Moral
- Servicio de Neonatología, Hospital 12 de Octubre, Fundación NeNe, Red Samid, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, España
| | - Javier González de Dios
- Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante, Departamento de Pediatría, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, España
| | - Alfredo García-Alix
- Institut de Recerca Pediàtrica, Universitat de Barcelona Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Fundación NeNe, Barcelona, España
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25
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Ojha S, Fainberg HP, Wilson V, Pelella G, Castellanos M, May ST, Lotto AA, Sacks H, Symonds ME, Budge H. Gene pathway development in human epicardial adipose tissue during early life. JCI Insight 2016; 1:e87460. [PMID: 27699231 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.87460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies in rodents and newborn humans demonstrate the influence of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in temperature control and energy balance and a critical role in the regulation of body weight. Here, we obtained samples of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) from neonates, infants, and children in order to evaluate changes in their transcriptional landscape by applying a systems biology approach. Surprisingly, these analyses revealed that the transition to infancy is a critical stage for changes in the morphology of EAT and is reflected in unique gene expression patterns of a substantial proportion of thermogenic gene transcripts (~10%). Our results also indicated that the pattern of gene expression represents a distinct developmental stage, even after the rebound in abundance of thermogenic genes in later childhood. Using weighted gene coexpression network analyses, we found precise anthropometric-specific correlations with changes in gene expression and the decline of thermogenic capacity within EAT. In addition, these results indicate a sequential order of transcriptional events affecting cellular pathways, which could potentially explain the variation in the amount, or activity, of BAT in adulthood. Together, these results provide a resource to elucidate gene regulatory mechanisms underlying the progressive development of BAT during early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Ojha
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Hernan P Fainberg
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Wilson
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Giuseppe Pelella
- University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Marcos Castellanos
- Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Centre, School of Biosciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sean T May
- Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Centre, School of Biosciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Attilio A Lotto
- University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Harold Sacks
- VA Endocrinology and Diabetes Division, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, and Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Michael E Symonds
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Budge
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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26
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Payot A. Neonatal organ donors: thinking beyond anencephaly and involving parents and the public. Acta Paediatr 2016; 105:499. [PMID: 26709614 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Payot
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Ethics, Neonatologist and Clinical Ethicist, Sainte-Justine Hospital, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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27
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Nakagawa TA, Bratton SL. Pediatric Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death: Past, Present, and Hopeful Future Changes. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2016; 17:270-1. [PMID: 26945204 DOI: 10.1097/PCC.0000000000000605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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28
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Abstract
The lifesaving processes of organ donation and transplantation in neonatology and pediatrics carry important ethical considerations. The medical community must balance the principles of autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice to ensure the best interest of the potential donor and to provide equitable benefit to society. Accordingly, the US Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) has established procedures for the ethical allocation of organs depending on several donor-specific and recipient-specific factors. To maximize the availability of transplantable organs and opportunities for dying patients and families to donate, the US government has mandated that hospitals refer potential donors in a timely manner. Expedient investigation and diagnosis of brain death where applicable are also crucial, especially in neonates. Empowering trained individuals from organ procurement organizations to discuss organ donation with families has also increased rates of consent. Other efforts to increase organ supply include recovery from donors who die by circulatory criteria (DCDD) in addition to donation after brain death (DBD), and from neonates born with immediately lethal conditions such as anencephaly. Ethical considerations in DCDD compared to DBD include a potential conflict of interest between the dying patient and others who may benefit from the organs, and the precision of the declaration of death of the donor. Most clinicians and ethicists believe in the appropriateness of the Dead Donor Rule, which states that vital organs should only be recovered from people who have died. The medical community can maximize the interests of organ donors and recipients by observing the Dead Donor Rule and acknowledging the ethical considerations in organ donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajit A. Sarnaik
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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29
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