Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a very rare autosomal recessive disorder, which is characterized by a systemic build-up of hyaline material that causes extensive tissue destruction and functional impairment. The signs of this debilitating illness, which can involve organs, skin anomalies, and joint contractures, frequently appear in infancy. The paucity of available research on ISH emphasizes the need for all-encompassing management approaches to address the wide range of symptoms and enhance the overall quality of life for impacted babies. The interdisciplinary approach to ISH highlights the need for physiotherapy as a crucial element, with an emphasis on addressing the motor and developmental problems linked to the illness. Improving mobility and functional independence in newborns with ISH is facilitated by therapeutic exercises designed specifically for their needs. Here, we present a case of a six-month-old male child who visited a tertiary care center with complaints of minimal movements of all four limbs since birth with the inability to hold the neck. On examination, it was found that there were low-set ears with popular rashes and contractures over distal joints. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) were done, which had abnormal findings suggestive of myopathy. On skin biopsy, it was confirmed that the child was suffering from ISH. Thus, the patient was referred to a physiotherapist. After six weeks of physiotherapy sessions, it was found that early and consistent physiotherapy interventions have been linked to a decrease in joint stiffness-related pain and discomfort, improving the affected infants\' general comfort. Furthermore, physiotherapy interventions have a crucial role in supporting adaptive methods to get around physical restrictions, making it easier for infants with ISH to reach developmental milestones that could otherwise be difficult. Although there is little research on the effects of physical therapy on infants with ISH, new data indicate that a proactive, tailored physical therapy program can greatly enhance the functional ability of impacted children, improve their overall quality of life, and avert further problems. It is crucial to incorporate physiotherapy into the comprehensive care of infants diagnosed with ISH. This highlights the significance of timely diagnosis, interdisciplinary cooperation, and continuous research aimed at improving and optimizing physiotherapeutic therapies for this uncommon and crippling genetic illness.

UNASSIGNED: The incidence of hip dislocation (HD) in arthrogryposis multiplex congenital ranges from 15 to 30 %. Besides a stable hip, the ambulation potential of an AMC child is also dependent on severity of associated knee and foot deformations. The primary objective of this review is to determine the proportion of ambulators in AMC children treated by open reduction for HD.
UNASSIGNED: We searched major electronic bibliographic databases for reports on the treatment of HD among AMC children. Based on the surgical approach for open reduction of HD in AMC children, we divided the included studies into groups 1 (Anterior approach open reduction) and 2 (Medial approach open reduction).
UNASSIGNED: We pooled 59 children/94 hips in this review from 7 studies. We identified 45 children/71 hips and 14 children/23 hips with a mean age of 20 (4-64) and 4.5 (0.5-11) months in groups 1 and 2, respectively. There were 97 % (44) and 92 %(Obeidat et al., 2011) 13 ambulators in groups 1 and 2, respectively. 47 % and 36 % of hips in groups 1 and 2 required additional procedures besides open reduction for redislocation and maintenance of hip reduction. 31 %22 and 13 %(Fisher et al., 1970 Feb) 3 of the hips sustained avascular necrosis in group 1 and 2.
UNASSIGNED: Children with AMC associated HD can be expected to ambulate with and without assistance in 90 % of the cases however, the foot and knee problems also need concomitant management. In children less than 6 months of age the medial approach based open reduction may be more efficacious and less complicating than anterior approach based open reduction however, at a later age anterior approach based open reduction is more effective due to need for pelvic and femur sided additional procedures.

BACKGROUND: The SLC29A3 gene, which encodes a nucleoside transporter protein, is primarily located in intracellular membranes. The mutations in this gene can give rise to various clinical manifestations, including H syndrome, dysosteosclerosis, Faisalabad histiocytosis, and pigmented hypertrichosis with insulin-dependent diabetes. The aim of this study is to present two Iranian patients with H syndrome and to describe a novel start-loss mutation in SLC29A3 gene.
METHODS: In this study, we employed whole-exome sequencing (WES) as a method to identify genetic variations that contribute to the development of H syndrome in a 16-year-old girl and her 8-year-old brother. These siblings were part of an Iranian family with consanguineous parents. To confirmed the pathogenicity of the identified variant, we utilized in-silico tools and cross-referenced various databases to confirm its novelty. Additionally, we conducted a co-segregation study and verified the presence of the variant in the parents of the affected patients through Sanger sequencing.
RESULTS: In our study, we identified a novel start-loss mutation (c.2T > A, p.Met1Lys) in the SLC29A3 gene, which was found in both of two patients. Co-segregation analysis using Sanger sequencing confirmed that this variant was inherited from the parents. To evaluate the potential pathogenicity and novelty of this mutation, we consulted various databases. Additionally, we employed bioinformatics tools to predict the three-dimensional structure of the mutant SLC29A3 protein. These analyses were conducted with the aim of providing valuable insights into the functional implications of the identified mutation on the structure and function of the SLC29A3 protein.
CONCLUSIONS: Our study contributes to the expanding body of evidence supporting the association between mutations in the SLC29A3 gene and H syndrome. The molecular analysis of diseases related to SLC29A3 is crucial in understanding the range of variability and raising awareness of H syndrome, with the ultimate goal of facilitating early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The discovery of this novel biallelic variant in the probands further underscores the significance of utilizing genetic testing approaches, such as WES, as dependable diagnostic tools for individuals with this particular condition.

OBJECTIVE: Bladder neck contracture after transurethral resection of the prostate is a common complication but without clear predisposing factors. In this prospective study, we evaluated the perioperative risk factors associated with bladder neck contracture after bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate.
METHODS: The study included 391 patients who were admitted for bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate between October 2020 to October 2023 by three experienced surgeons. Forty three patients had bladder neck contracture and their perioperative parameters were compared with randomly chosen 172 patients without bladder neck contracture.
RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the studied groups regarding the general and present history characteristics. Re-catheterization after transurethral resection of the prostate, post-operative recurrent urinary tract infection, resection speed, and associated urethral stricture were significantly higher among the bladder neck-contraction group (P < 0.05), while total PSA, total prostate weight, post void residual urine volume, resected gland weight, resection time and catheter duration were significantly lower among the bladder neck-contraction group (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Bladder neck contracture after bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate is more common among patients with small fibrotic prostate, low total PSA, small post- void residual urine volume, those with a higher incidence of post-operative recurrent urinary-tract infection and patients with a higher incidence of re-catheterization after transurethral resection of the prostate.

BACKGROUND: TTN is a complex gene with large genomic size and highly repetitive structure. Pathogenic variants in TTN have been reported to cause a range of skeletal muscle and cardiac disorders. Homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations tend to cause a wide spectrum of phenotypes with congenital or childhood onset. The onset and severity of the features were considered to be correlated with the types and location of the TTN variants.
METHODS: Whole-exome sequencing was performed on three unrelated families presenting with fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS), mainly characterized by reduced fetal movements and limb contractures. Sanger sequencing was performed to confirm the variants. RT-PCR analysis was performed.
RESULTS: TTN c.38,876-2 A > C, a meta transcript-only variant, with a second pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant in trans, was observed in five affected fetuses from the three families. Sanger sequencing showed that all the fetal variants were inherited from the parents. RT-PCR analysis showed two kinds of abnormal splicing, including intron 199 extension and skipping of 8 bases.
CONCLUSIONS: Here we report on three unrelated families presenting with FADS caused by four TTN variants. In addition, our study demonstrates that pathogenic meta transcript-only TTN variant can lead to defects which is recognizable prenatally in a recessive manner.

OBJECTIVE: This report presents the results of using cryopreserved umbilical amniotic membrane (cUAM) as an alternative mucosal graft for ocular surface reconstruction in cases of anophthalmic socket contracture (ASC), cicatricial entropion (CE), and conjunctival-scleral defects.
METHODS: The study included patients who underwent non-commercial implantation of cUAM grafts (prepared by corneal banking methods) for ASC, CE, conjunctival defect, and scleral melting. The main success criteria for this study were the comfortable fitting of the ocular prosthesis in ASC patients, the natural eyelid position in CE patients, and the degree of conjunctivalisation in melting patients.
RESULTS: cUAM transplantation was performed in 2 patients who could not use a prosthetic eye due to conjunctival contracture, 2 patients with CE, and 1 patient with conjunctival defect and 1 patient with conjunctival-scleral melting. The primary outcome was achieved in 83.3% (5/6) of patients. In one patient with CE, partial healing was achieved due to the persistence of CE in the medial upper eyelid.
CONCLUSIONS: cUAM is a viable alternative to mucosal grafting for reconstructing the bulbar and palpebral conjunctival surface, fornix, and orbit, with reduced donor morbidity and shorter surgical time. Its regenerative ability allows for tissue defect healing and improves cosmetic appearance through epithelialization within weeks.

BACKGROUND: Axillary cicatricial contracture is a debilitating condition that can greatly impair shoulder joint function. Therefore, timely correction of this condition is imperative. In light of Ogawa\'s prior classification of axillary cicatricial contracture deformities, we have proposed a novel classification system and reconstruction principles based on a decade of treatment experience. Our proposed system offers a more comprehensive approach to correcting axillary cicatricial contracture deformities and aims to improve patient outcomes.
METHODS: Our study included 196 patients with a total of 223 axillary cicatricial contracture deformities. The range of shoulder abduction varied between 10 and 120 degrees. Our treatment approach included various methods such as the lateral thoracic flap, transverse scapular artery flap, cervical superficial artery flap, medial upper arm flap, latissimus dorsi flap, Z-shape modification, and the use of local flaps combined with skin grafting. After 2 weeks, the sutures were removed, and patients were instructed to start functional exercises. To categorize the deformities, we divided them into 2 types: axillary-adjacent region cicatricial contracture (type I) and extended area contracture (type II).
RESULTS: For each subtype, a specific treatment method was chosen based on a designed algorithm decision tree. Out of the total cases, 133 patients underwent treatment with various types of local flaps, including Z-plasty, whereas 63 patients received treatment involving skin grafting and different types of local flaps. At the time of discharge, the abduction angle of the shoulder joint ranged from 80 to 120 degrees. Among the 131 patients who were followed up, 108 of them adhered to a regimen of horizontal bar exercises. After a 1-year follow-up period, the abduction angle of the shoulder joint had significantly improved to a range of 110-180 degrees.
CONCLUSIONS: We have proposed a novel classification method for the correction of axillary cicatricial contracture deformity. This approach involves utilizing distinct correction strategies, in conjunction with postoperative functional exercise, to ensure the effectiveness of axillary reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: severe, rigid hip abduction deformity in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) is an exceptionally uncommon condition. This posture hinders the positioning in the wheelchair and the completion of basic activities of daily living (ADL). Addressing such severe deformities can be quite challenging.
METHODS: a 14-year-old male, with spastic-dystonic quadriplegic CP, developed rigid and severe flexion-abduction contractures in both hips, characterized by 90 degrees of flexion and 100 degrees of abduction. These contractures severely impeded his ability to comfortably use a wheelchair and even pass through doorways. Performing basic ADLs became a significant challenge for both the patient and his caregivers.
RESULTS: the treatment approach involved a two-stage surgical procedure, one for each hip, with a two-month interval between them. An extensive release of the fascia latae, gluteus maximus, external rotators, and hip flexors; in combination with a proximal femur osteotomy were performed. To maintain the corrections achieved, long-leg casts connected with two bars were employed, followed by orthotic support and physiotherapy. Following the procedure, lower limb adduction was achieved, and the patient and caregivers were highly satisfied, as ADLs and basic caregiving had been greatly facilitated.
CONCLUSIONS: while the available literature on the management of severe rigid abduction hip contractures in non-ambulatory CP patients is limited, and treatment options are often complex, the present case underscores the effectiveness of a comprehensive approach involving soft tissue release and bone surgery. Achieving a more favorable wheelchair positioning and facilitating basic ADLs and care represents a significant success for patients and families.
UNASSIGNED: la deformidad severa y rígida en abducción de cadera en individuos con parálisis cerebral (PC) es una condición infrecuente. Esta postura dificulta el posicionamiento en la silla de ruedas y la realización de actividades básicas de la vida diaria (AVD). El tratamiento de estas deformidades tan severas puede ser todo un reto.
UNASSIGNED: varón de 14 años, con PC tetrapléjica espástica-distónica, que desarrolló contracturas rígidas y severas de flexión-abducción en ambas caderas, caracterizadas por 90 grados de flexión y 100 grados de abducción. Estas contracturas impedían gravemente su capacidad para utilizar cómodamente una silla de ruedas e incluso pasar por las puertas. La realización de actividades básicas de la vida diaria se convirtió en un reto importante tanto para el paciente como para sus cuidadores.
RESULTS: el tratamiento consistió en una intervención quirúrgica en dos fases, una para cada cadera, con un intervalo de dos meses entre ellas. Se realizó una amplia liberación de la fascia lata, el glúteo mayor, los rotadores externos y los flexores de la cadera; en combinación con una osteotomía proximal del fémur. Para mantener las correcciones conseguidas, se emplearon escayolas de pierna larga conectadas con dos barras, seguidas de soporte ortésico y fisioterapia. Tras la intervención, se consiguió la aducción de los miembros inferiores y el paciente y los cuidadores se mostraron muy satisfechos, ya que se habían facilitado en gran medida las AVD y los cuidados básicos.
CONCLUSIONS: aunque la bibliografía disponible sobre el tratamiento de las contracturas rígidas graves de la cadera en abducción en pacientes no deambulantes con PC es limitada, y las opciones de tratamiento suelen ser complejas, el presente caso subraya la eficacia de un enfoque integral que incluye la liberación de los tejidos blandos y la cirugía ósea. Conseguir una posición más favorable en la silla de ruedas y facilitar las AVD básicas y los cuidados representa un éxito significativo para los pacientes y sus familias.

BACKGROUND H syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder of histiocytic proliferation with clinical spectrum of unique cutaneous and systemic manifestations. There is no consistent treatment for the disease, and all available options are based on case reports. Here, we present the chronological progression of a case of H syndrome with typical cutaneous manifestations that was misdiagnosed early as meningitis-induced sensorineural hearing loss and later as a non-defined autoimmune connective tissue disease. A new tried, although failed, treatment option is described as well. CASE REPORT A 31-year-old Saudi woman born of a consanguineous marriage presented to our dermatology clinic with symmetrical indurated hyperpigmented to violaceous plaques over the medial thighs, upper legs, lower back, volar wrists, and upper arms, associated with hypertrichosis. Hallux valgus of the big toes was clinically detected as well. She had a history of sensorineural deafness, diabetes mellitus, chronic anemia, and hypothyroidism. Genetic analysis of the patient showed a homozygous frameshift pathogenic variant of the SLC29A3 gene, c.243del p.(Lys81Asnfs*20). Systemic treatments in the form of methotrexate and imatinib had been tried; however, both failed to control her sclerotic cutaneous changes. CONCLUSIONS Knowing the early life presentation and the variable clinical symptoms of H syndrome is crucial in early intervention and further prevention of the non-reversible changes. Moreover, avoiding unnecessary immunosuppressive medication use is warranted in certain circumstances.

BACKGROUND: Stiff skin syndrome (SSS) is a rare disease characterized by thickened, indurated skin and limited joint movement. Multiple diverse phenotypes have been reported, and the correlation of severity with the clinical heterogeneity and histopathological findings of SSS needs to be refined.
OBJECTIVE: To define subtypes based on clinical features and predict the prognosis of a new SSS classification.
METHODS: Eighty-three patients with SSS were retrospectively reviewed for clinicopathological manifestations and routine laboratory workup, including 59 cases obtained from a PubMed search between 1971 and 2022 and 24 cases diagnosed in our department between 2003 and 2022.
RESULTS: Among the 83 patients, 27.7, 41, and 31.3% had classic widespread, generalized segmental, and localized SSS, respectively. Joint immobility was present in 100, 71, and 20% of classic, generalized, and localized cases, respectively. Histopathologic findings were common among the 3 groups, and based on that, we further found a difference in the distribution of proliferative collagen. 54.5% of classic and 50% of generalized cases occurred throughout the dermis or the subcutis, whereas 76% of localized cases were mainly involved in the reticular dermis or subcutis. In patients with incipient localized SSS, 42% (21/50) developed generalized SSS, and only 6% (3/50) progressed to classic SSS, whereas more than half of the incipient generalized SSS cases (60.6%, 20/33) developed classic SSS.
CONCLUSIONS: This retrospective study was limited to previously published cases with limited data.
CONCLUSIONS: We propose a distinct clinical classification characterized by lesion distribution, including classic widespread, generalized segmental, and localized SSS, associated with disease severity and prognosis.