Allgrove syndrome: a report of a unique case characterised by peculiar dental findings resembling those of ectodermal dysplasia

BACKGROUND

Triple A or Allgrove Syndrome (OMIM#231550) is a rare, autosomal recessive genetic disorder in which patients typically suffer from chronic adrenal insufficiency due to resistance to ACTH (Addison's disease), esophageal achalasia, and defective tear formation (alacrima). The syndrome is caused by mutations in the AAAS gene on chromosome 12q13 encoding a 546 aminoacid protein named alacrimia-achalasia-adrenal insufficiency neurologic disorder (ALADIN), a constituent of eukaryotic nuclear pore complexes.

CASE REPORT

We describe a case of Allgrove Syndrome presenting with anhidrosis and peculiar dental features resembling those of Ectodermal Dysplasia (ED).

CONCLUSION

Given the clinical findings in this case we suggest the hypothesis that the pathogenetic mechanism in Allgrove syndrome is related to the ED.

Minilaparotomy vs laparotomy for uterine myomectomies: a randomized controlled trial

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy and applicability of the minilaparotomy technique in abdominal myomectomies and to compare it with traditional laparotomy.

METHODS

We enrolled 99 women, suffering from symptomatic uterine myomas, to be operated for myomectomy. Through computer randomization, 55 women were assigned to the study group (minilaparotomy) and 44 women to the control group (traditional laparotomy). Women assigned to the study group were operated using a recently modified minilaparotomy technique. Statistical evaluation was performed through Mann-Whitney U test, chi2 test, Student's t-test.

RESULTS

Duration of surgery, time for spontaneous recanalization and days of postoperative hospital stay were significantly lower in the study group, as well as treatment satisfaction reported by the patients (p<0.05). Moreover, each minilaparotomy operation ended by saving 620 Euro.

CONCLUSIONS

Minilaparotomy seems to be a valid alternative to the removal of symptomatic uterine myomas. The objective and subjective advantages in operated patients, as well as the reduction in sanitary costs are underlined.