Our results suggest that TNF-α and vitamin D pathways may be involved in the susceptibility to and outcome of HBV infection acquired early in life.

The clinical course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection varies from spontaneous recovery to chronic persistent infection leading to severe liver injury. Mounting evidence has recently highlighted the influence of host genotype in the complex interplay between viral and host factors. Studies in adults have suggested the existence of a genetic predisposition to HBV infection secondary to certain defects in the host response. These defects include opsonic deficiency, compromised antigen processing and presentation by human leucocyte antigen variations, attenuated T- and B-cell response, impaired cytokine and chemokine release, and production of receptors for several pertinent factors such as vitamin D and estrogen. By contrast, little is known about the genetic factors involved in the susceptibility to HBV transmission in early childhood. Herein, we review the literature regarding the association between host genetics and susceptibility to primary HBV infection, and we discuss the prospects of investigation in this field. A better understanding of HBV infection immunopathogenesis in the critical period of infancy may allow the development of optimal and innovative prevention and treatment.

and statistically significant; though none of the patient demographic features or serological markers were found to be associated with the delta change in phosphate to predict high risk patients. The median recovery time of 14 days is less than what is reported in adult reviews. FCM infusions need preassessment, counselling and post infusion monitoring to assess effectiveness and recovery.

No abstract

We report a case of a 13-year-old female presenting with deep venous thrombosis in her left lower limb. Investigations led by her symptoms and history revealed persistently positive lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies, indicating the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome. Double-stranded DNA antibodies were detected positive pointing to the coexistence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Antiphospholipid syndrome-related vascular occlusive events are causing high morbidity and mortality. Therefore, a high index of suspicion is mandatory for the recognition of children being at risk for primary or recurrent thrombotic complications.