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Tatiana Froud

Publications and source records attributed to Tatiana Froud.

14 recordsLinked to original sources

International trial of the Edmonton protocol for islet transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Islet transplantation offers the potential to improve glycemic control in a subgroup of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus who are disabled by refractory hypoglycemia. We conducted an international, multicenter trial to explore the feasibility and reproducibility of islet transplantation with the use of a single common protocol (the Edmonton protocol). METHODS: We enrolled 36 subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus, who underwent islet transplantation at nine international sites. Islets were prepared from pancreases of deceased donors and were transplanted within 2 hours after purification, without culture. The primary end point was defined as insulin independence with adequate glycemic control 1 year after the final transplantation. RESULTS: Of the 36 subjects, 16 (44%) met the primary end point, 10 (28%) had partial function, and 10 (28%) had complete graft loss 1 year after the final transplantation. A total of 21 subjects (58%) attained insulin independence with good glycemic control at any point throughout the trial. Of these subjects, 16 (76%) required insulin again at 2 years; 5 of the 16 subjects who reached the primary end point (31%) remained insulin-independent at 2 years. CONCLUSIONS: Islet transplantation with the use of the Edmonton protocol can successfully restore long-term endogenous insulin production and glycemic stability in subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus and unstable control, but insulin independence is usually not sustainable. Persistent islet function even without insulin independence provides both protection from severe hypoglycemia and improved levels of glycated hemoglobin. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00014911 [ClinicalTrials.gov].).

Adult↗

Successful percutaneous pulse spray thrombolysis of extensive acute portocaval hemitransposition thrombosis.

We report a case of extensive acute thrombosis of portal vein and cava in a portocaval hemitransposition liver graft that was treated successfully with percutaneous pulse spray thrombolysis through a femoral vein access. The patient subsequently developed descending and sigmoid colon ischemic necrosis because of the venous thrombosis necessitating emergency colon resection. The patient had prolonged postoperative intensive care stay, but was eventually discharged in a good condition with normal liver function. Three month follow up demonstrated persistent normalization of hepatic function and normal duplex ultrasound.

Acute Disease↗

Resolution of neurotoxicity and beta-cell toxicity in an islet transplant recipient following substitution of tacrolimus with MMF.

Calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus have well-recognized efficacy in organ transplantation but side effects of nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and beta-cell toxicity that can be particularly detrimental in islet transplantation. Neuro- and nephrotoxicity have been demonstrated in multiple islet transplant recipients despite the relatively low serum maintenance levels typically used (3-5 ng/ml). We describe a single patient in whom symptoms and signs of neurotoxicity necessitated substitution of tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), which resulted in complete symptom resolution over the subsequent 9 months. Concomitantly noted were an almost immediate improvement in glycemic control and an improved response to stimulation testing, suggesting remission of tacrolimus-induced beta-cell toxicity and insulin resistance. At 18 months post-"switch," 30 months posttransplant, the patient remains insulin independent with good glycemic control. The goal to remove calcineurin inhibitors from regimens of islet transplantation is a worthy one.

Adult↗

Immunosuppression and procedure-related complications in 26 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus receiving allogeneic islet cell transplantation.

BACKGROUND: The success of sirolimus and low-dose tacrolimus in islet cell transplantation has influenced many transplant centers to utilize this novel regimen. The long-term safety and tolerability of this steroid-free immunosuppressive protocol for allogeneic islet transplantation has yet to be determined. METHODS: We transplanted 26 adult patients with long standing type 1 diabetes mellitus between April 2000 and June 2004. Immunosuppression consisted of induction with daclizumab and maintenance therapy with tacrolimus and sirolimus. Adverse events (AEs) in patients were followed and graded using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0 (National Cancer Institute). RESULTS: To date, the majority of patients were able to remain on the immunosuppression combination for up to 22+/-11 months. Four patients were successfully converted to Mycophenolate Mofetil due to tacrolimus-related toxicity. Withdrawal from immunosuppression was decided in four patients due to hypereosinophilic syndrome, parvovirus infection, aspiration pneumonia, and severe depression, respectively. Six patients required filgrastim therapy for neutropenia. Transient elevation of liver enzymes was observed in most patients early after islet infusion. Increased LDL in 20 patients required medical treatment. CONCLUSION: There was a varying range of AEs, most of them mild and self-limiting; however, some required urgent medical attention. The majority of patients were able to tolerate and remain on this effective regimen. To date, no deaths, cytomegalovirus disease, graft-versus-host disease, or posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease has been observed.

Adult↗

Islet transplantation in type 1 diabetes mellitus using cultured islets and steroid-free immunosuppression: Miami experience.

Following the success obtained with transplantation of fresh human islets under steroid-free immunosuppression, this trial evaluated the transplantation of islets that had undergone a period of in vitro culture and the potential of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) blockade to improve islet engraftment. Subjects included 16 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM); half were randomly assigned to receive Infliximab immediately preceding initial infusion. Immunosuppression consisted of daclizumab induction and sirolimus/tacrolimus maintenance. Out of 16 subjects 14 achieved insulin independence with one or two islet infusions; adverse events precluded completion in two. Without supplemental infusions, 11/14 (79%) subjects were insulin independent at 1 year, 6/14 (43%) at 18 months; these same subjects remain insulin independent at 33+/-6 months. While on immunosuppression, all patients maintained graft function. Out of 14 patients, 8 suffered chronic partial graft loss, likely immunological in nature, 5 of these received supplemental infusions. Currently, 11 subjects remain on immunosuppression, 8 (73%) are insulin independent, two with supplemental infusions. Insulin independent subjects demonstrated normalization of HbA1c, fructosamine and Mean Amplitude of Glycemic Excursions (MAGE) values. No clinical benefit of infliximab was identified. These results demonstrate that transplantation of cultured human islet allografts results in reproducible insulin independence in all subjects under this immunosuppressive regimen, comparable to that of freshly transplanted islets (Edmonton protocol).

Adult↗

Evaluation of metabolic control using a continuous subcutaneous glucose monitoring system in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus who achieved insulin independence after islet cell transplantation.

This study evaluated the Medtronic MiniMed Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS) in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus who underwent successful islet cell transplantation (ICT). The results are compared to standardized self-monitoring (SMBG) of hyperglycemia and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE). We studied 19 patients (mean age 40.0 +/- 6.7 years) in three groups: six patients post-ICT, seven patients awaiting ICT, and six normal volunteers (controls). Continuous glucose monitoring post-ICT showed remarkable glucose stability compared with patients awaiting ICT. The CGMS group showed modestly higher glucoses (mean 111.5 mg/dl) compared with controls (88 mg/dl). Postprandial glucoses in ICT recipients rarely exceeded 180 mg/dl and were similar to controls. There was no difference in asymptomatic hypoglycemia between control and post-ICT groups. However, a higher incidence of hypoglycemia was observed in patients awaiting ICT. HbA1c and MAGE pre- and post-ICT were 8.3 +/- 0.9% and 6 +/- 0.3% (p < 0.001) and 109 +/- 34 and 41 +/- 11 (p < 0.001), respectively. No complications were associated with CGMS. This study suggests ICT significantly improves metabolic control and rate of hypoglycemia when compared with controls and patients awaiting ICT. Similar improvement in metabolic control was observed with SMBG, HbA1c, and MAGE. Although CGMS was not demonstrated to be a superior tool for routine assessment in ICT, it is very helpful in special clinical situations.

Adult↗

Alterations of the female reproductive system in recipients of islet grafts.

BACKGROUND: Transplantation of allogeneic tissues is becoming a wider practice for the replacement of organ function lost to congenital or acquired pathologies. Chronic immunosuppression remains a necessity to prevent organ rejection, despite increased risks of infection, organ toxicity, and malignancies. Abnormalities of female gonadal function in patients of reproductive age are recognized, however, pathological alterations of the reproductive system in patients treated with new generation immunosuppressive drugs are still poorly documented. METHODS: We report herein our observations of abnormalities of the reproductive system in 13 female recipients of allogeneic islets for type 1 diabetes, under immunosuppression therapy based on daclizumab induction and tacrolimus/sirolimus maintenance. RESULTS: Menstrual cycle alterations and clinically significant ovarian cysts were frequently observed in our patients, some requiring medical or surgical intervention. All ovarian cysts appeared of benign nature. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that pre- and posttransplant evaluation of female patients should include menstrual history, baseline pelvic ultrasound, and hormonal levels to assess the presence and monitor the progression of such alterations.

Adolescent↗

Cytomegalovirus prevalence and transmission after islet allograft transplant in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) serological status of transplant donors and recipients has important implications on antiviral prophylaxis, morbidity/mortality, donor selection and hospital stay. We evaluated CMV prevalence in our islet transplant candidates (ITC) in comparison with organ donors. We correlated the CMV serological status of our ITC with serology for Epstein-Barr virus and Parvovirus B19, auto-antibodies, patient's age, age at DM onset, duration of DM, gender, race, ABO group, HLA haplotype and C-peptide levels. Cytomegalovirus transmission after islet transplant using the Edmonton regimen was also evaluated. Cytomegalovirus seropositivity varied according to patient group, age, gender and race. Type 1 DM patients had reduced odds of CMV seropositivity when compared with organ donors. In all groups studied, older patients, females, and non-Caucasians were more likely to be CMV seropositive. In addition, no CMV reactivation, infection or disease was observed among our transplanted patients using this steroid-free regimen even after donor/recipient CMV mismatch.

Adolescent↗

Use of D-STAT to prevent bleeding following percutaneous transhepatic intraportal islet transplantation.

An infrequent but nevertheless concerning complication associated with percutaneous transhepatic islet transplantation is bleeding. Historically in 61 procedures at this institution, we experienced four bleeding complications in three patients (6.6%), two requiring blood transfusion (3.3%) and two asymptomatic intraperitoneal bleeds detected sonographically at 24 h postprocedure (3.3%). It is suggested that the source of the majority of these bleeds is the liver parenchymal tract following removal of the infusion catheter combined with a significant dose of heparin administered to prevent portal vein thrombosis. Various techniques have been used to reduce the risk of tract bleeding, including gelfoam, intravascular coils, and cautery. In our experience gelfoam alone has been used to plug the catheter tract (n = 47); however, in the aforementioned three patients, this technique failed, either due to dislodgement of, or bleeding peripheral to, the plug. This article describes the use of D-Stat, a collagen/thrombin paste that is injected into the peripheral tract. In five consecutive cases performed using D-Stat, there has been no bleeding or thromboses detected. D-Stat combined with a single gelfoam plug offers a quick, easy, efficacious way of sealing the entire catheter tract without leaving any permanent hardware in the liver. This new method may simplify tract closure and reduce bleeding complications in islet transplantation.

Animals↗

Twenty years of clinical islet transplantation at the Diabetes Research Institute--University of Miami.

Transplantation of allogeneic pancreatic islets for the treatment of patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is now a reality. The steady progress that has allowed for the recent successful clinical trials world-wide follows a steep learning curve and the perseverance of the international islet transplantation community. The Clinical Islet Transplant Program at the Diabetes Research Institute - University of Miami has contributed to the progress in the field with a 20-year track record. It has been a long journey and despite the intermediate success, more work is needed in order to achieve the ultimate goal of a safe and long-lasting treatment for patients with T1DM.

Academies and Institutes↗

Pancreatic islet transplantation: the radiographic approach.

BACKGROUND: Successful pancreatic islet transplantation (PIT) has resulted in several transplant centers wanting to start PIT programs. PIT remains experimental and must be performed safely for its continued use. We describe the radiographic techniques used at our center and their results. METHODS: Between January 17, 2002, and December 16, 2002, 17 percutaneous transhepatic PITs were performed by two interventional radiologists. Ultrasound localization of and guidance to the portal vein (PV) were used. Portosplenography confirmed the position of the PV islet infusion catheter, and PV pressure was documented before, during, and at the completion of PIT. To prevent PV thrombosis, heparin (17.5 U/kg) through the PV infusion catheter and subcutaneous enoxaparin (Lovenox, Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Parsippany, NJ) were administered after PIT. At the completion of PIT, thrombin-saturated Gelfoam (Johnson and Johnson, Summerville, NJ) was embolized into the hepatic parenchymal tract. RESULTS: Percutaneous PV access was achieved in all cases (median number of seeker needle passes=2, range: 1-6), and PIT was performed. In no case was any extrahepatic organ punctured, and sustained PV hypertension was not seen. No patient required transfusion, and it was documented by Doppler ultrasonography that PV thrombosis did not result from PIT. In addition, intraparenchymal and intraabdominal bleeding did not complicate any PIT; 71% and 59% of the patients experienced moderate posttransplant abdominal pain and nausea, respectively. All patients demonstrated a self-limited, asymptomatic posttransplant transaminitis. CONCLUSIONS: We believe that PIT should be performed by a small number of experienced interventional radiologists using ultrasound guidance and posttransplant embolization of the hepatic parenchymal tract.

Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1↗

The bag method for islet cell infusion.

As islet cell transplantation gains increasing interest following results published by the Edmonton group, results that have been successfully reproduced by several centers nationwide and abroad, the need of guidelines to standardize the procedure becomes highly important. We detail the key steps of the infusion procedure utilizing a closed gravity fed bag system utilized at our institution since 1990, which consists of a 600-ml transfer bag and a 150-ml rinse bag connected via sterile tubing. The use of gravity allows for a control rate of infusion as well as providing a safety mechanism through natural reduction of flow that parallels any increase in portal pressure, therefore allowing the operator to prevent precipitous pressure rises. Reports on significant rise in portal pressures during islet cell infusion as well as portal vein thrombosis have been published. Infusion at these centers was carried out using a syringe method. Using our technique, portal vein thrombosis (partial or complete) was not detected in any of the infusions performed at our institution. This method may be of assistance to minimize some of the observed complications associated with islet transplant procedures and has now been adapted by most centers performing clinical islet transplantation.

Infusions, Intravenous↗

Achievement of insulin independence in three consecutive type-1 diabetic patients via pancreatic islet transplantation using islets isolated at a remote islet isolation center.

BACKGROUND: As a result of advances in both immunosuppressive protocols and pancreatic islet isolation techniques, insulin independence has recently been achieved in several patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus via pancreatic islet transplantation (PIT). Although the dissemination of immunosuppressive protocols is quite easy, transferring the knowledge and expertise required to isolate a large number of quality human islets for transplantation is a far greater challenge. Therefore, in an attempt to centralize the critical islet processing needed for islet transplantation and to avoid the development of another islet processing center, we have established a collaborative islet transplant program between two geographically distant transplant centers. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three consecutive patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus with a history of severe hypoglycemia and metabolic instability underwent PIT at the Methodist Hospital (TMH), Houston, Texas, using pancreatic islets. All pancreatic islets were isolated from pancreata procured in Houston and subsequently transported for isolation to the Human Islet Cell Processing Facility of the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) at the University of Miami, Miami, Florida. Pancreatic islets were isolated at DRI after enzymatic ductal perfusion (Liberase-HI) by the automated method (Ricordi Chamber) using endotoxin-free and xenoprotein-free media. After purification, the islets were immediately transported back to TMH and transplanted via percutaneous transhepatic portal embolization. Immunosuppression consisted of sirolimus, tacrolimus, and daclizumab. RESULTS: After donor cross-clamp in Houston, donor pancreata arrived at DRI and the isolation process began within 6.5 hr in all cases (median, 5.4 hr; range, 4.8-6.5 hr). At the completion of the isolation process, the islets were immediately transported back to TMH and transplanted. All three patients attained sustained insulin independence after transplantation of 395,567, 394,381, and 563,206 pancreatic islet equivalents (IEQ), respectively. Despite insulin independence, the first two patients received less than 10,000 IEQ/kg; therefore, to increase their functional pancreatic islet reserve, they underwent a second islet transplant with 326,720 and 768,132 IEQ, respectively. Posttransplantation follow-up for these three patients is 4, 3, and 0.5 months, respectively. The mean glycosylated hemoglobin values have been dramatically reduced in the first two patients. In addition, the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions have also been reduced in all three recipients (patient 1: before transplantation 197 mg/dL vs. after transplantation 61 mg/dL; patient 2: before transplantation 202 mg/dL vs. after transplantation 52 mg/dL; patient 3: before transplantation 245 mg/dL vs. after transplantation 58 mg/dL) after PIT. All pancreatic islet allografts demonstrated the ability to respond to an in vitro glucose stimulus at the DRI before shipment and at TMH after shipment and final processing with a median stimulation index of 2.1 and 2.2, respectively. None of the transplant recipients have had a hyper- or hypoglycemic episode since PIT and no complications have occurred. CONCLUSIONS: These early data demonstrate that (1) pancreatic islets remain viable after shipment to remote transplant sites; (2) pancreatic islet isolation techniques and experience can be concentrated at a small number of regional facilities that could supply islets to remote transplant centers; and (3) insulin independence via PIT can be achieved using a remote pancreatic islet isolation center.

Adolescent↗