Bedeschi MF, Mora S, Antoniazzi F, Boero S, Ravasio R, Scarano G, Selicorni A, Sessa M, Verdoni F, Zampino G, Maghnie M. The clinical management of children with achondroplasia in Italy: results of clinician and parent/caregiver surveys.
J Endocrinol Invest 2024;
47:345-356. [PMID:
37466810 DOI:
10.1007/s40618-023-02151-y]
[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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE
This study aimed to assess the real-world management of achondroplasia in Italy.
METHODS
Two online surveys addressed to (1) parents/caregivers of individuals with achondroplasia and (2) Italian clinicians managing individuals with achondroplasia were conducted to assess real-world perspectives on achondroplasia management. Both surveys collected data on either patient or clinician demographics, details on diagnoses and referrals, disease complications, and views/experiences with limb lengthening surgery.
RESULTS
In total, 42 parents/caregivers and 19 clinicians (from 18 hospitals) completed the surveys. According to parents/caregivers, achondroplasia diagnosis was most commonly made in the third trimester of gestation (55% of respondents), with a genetic test performed to confirm the diagnosis in all but one case. In contrast, the clinicians indicated that, while achondroplasia was typically suspected during the prenatal period (78%), diagnosis was more frequently confirmed postnatally (72%). Parents/caregivers reported that the greatest impact of achondroplasia-related complications occurred in their children between the ages of 2-5 years. The most significant complications were otitis, sleep apnoea, stenosis of the foramen magnum or pressure on the spinal cord, and hearing difficulties. Lengthening surgery had been presented as a treatment option to 92% of responding parents/caregivers, with 76% of clinicians viewing surgery favourably. Typically, clinicians' reasons for suggesting limb lengthening surgery were to improve patient quality of life, increase patient autonomy and self-acceptance, improve trunk-limb disproportion, short stature and walking, and ensure that all possible treatment options had been presented to the parents/caregivers.
CONCLUSION
This survey provides insight into the real-world management of individuals with achondroplasia in Italy.
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