1. Overview of European practices for management of tyrosinemia type 1 : towards European guidelinesAllysa M. Kuypers, Anibh M. Das, Arianna Maiorana, M. Rebecca Heiner-Fokkema, Francjan J. van Spronsen, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: The introduction of nitisinone (NTBC) and newborn screening for Tyrosinemia type 1 (TT1) enabled preemptive treatment ofpatients, thereby significantly improving outcomes by preventing liver, kidney, and neurological issues. Treatment goals haveshifted from emergency treatment to long-term care. To evaluate the risk of developing complications with aging, due to TT1itself or its treatment, long-term follow-up is essential. In 2014, an overview of TT1 management practices in Europe was pub-lished. Within the Metabolic European Reference Network's subnetwork on amino-and-organic acidurias (MetabERN-AOA),we considered it important to give an update on current TT1 management practices in Europe. An online survey study was per-formed among members of the MetabERN-AOA subnetwork, and participants of a workshop on TT1 at the European MetabolicGroup Meeting of Nutricia. Findings were compared to existing data from the aforementioned publication from 2014 and pre-viously published recommendations. Thirty-two centers (16 European countries) completed the survey. Both consistencies andinconsistencies in TT1 management were seen. Inconsistencies were observed in the frequency and methods of follow-up, dosingof NTBC, and target ranges of biochemical markers. Compared to 2014, key differences included an increased number of patientsdetected by newborn screening, lower NTBC dosing, and a shift from interest in mainly hepatic to hepatic and neurocognitiveoutcomes. These results align with trends seen in TT1 recommendations over the years. In addition to numerous consistencies,many aspects in TT1 management still differ widely across Europe, suggesting the need for uniform guidance in clinical man-agement beyond existing recommendations. Ključne besede: tyrosinemia type 1, NTBC, nitisinone, management, guidelines Objavljeno v DiRROS: 22.12.2025; Ogledov: 41; Prenosov: 24
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2. Child-parent cascade screening for familial hypercholesterolemia in Slovenia : insights from the pilot programJaka Šikonja, Kaja Kobale, Jan Kafol, Barbara Čugalj Kern, Matej Mlinarič, Ana Drole Torkar, Jernej Kovač, Matija Cevc, Zlatko Fras, Tadej Battelino, Urh Grošelj, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Background and aims: Cascade familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) screening of parents could reduce the burden cardiovascular disease (CVD) in relatives of index cases by enabling timely diagnosis of FH. Here, we present the positive outcomes of the pilot child-parent cascade screening program in Slovenia. Methods: One hundred and thirty-eight parents from 123 families of an index child with genetically confirmed FH were randomly included in the pilot child-parent cascade screening program. Index children were identified through the universal FH screening program in preschool children. Genetic testing using Sanger sequencing was performed for cascade screening to detect (likely) pathogenic variants, previously confirmed in the index child. Results: The success rate of confirming a (likely) pathogenic variant was 77.2 % when the first parent, preferably with higher total cholesterol levels, was tested, and reached 99.1 % when the variant was identified in the first tested parent or when both parents were tested. In the minority of cases (13.8 %), parents had had a clinical diagnosis of FH prior to their child and these had somewhat higher prevalence of CVD compared to parents that were diagnosed after their index child through the pilot program (12.5 % vs. 4.3 %; p = 0.382). Conclusions: In conclusion, the presented pilot child–parent cascade screening program is feasible in clinical practice and shows a high success rate in identifying parents with FH. Parents diagnosed through the program appeared to have a lower prevalence of CVD. However, larger cohorts are needed to confirm these findings. Ključne besede: child-parent screening, cascade screening, familial hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease, Slovenia Objavljeno v DiRROS: 16.12.2025; Ogledov: 90; Prenosov: 51
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3. Ethical considerations and multidisciplinary care for pediatric patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome : a narrative review with a systematic searchMojca Železnik, Urh Grošelj, Petja Fister, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Background: Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) was a fatal congenital heart defect (CHD) until the 1980s. Introduction of the Norwood procedure and subsequent Fontan operation significantly improved survival by creating a single-ventricle circulation. Due to the high mortality associated with the Norwood operation, neonatal orthotopic heart transplantation emerged as an alternative, despite challenges such as lifelong immunosuppressive treatment and uncertain longevity of transplanted hearts. Methods: A narrative review with a systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed, following PRISMA guidelines and included studies of ethical and medical considerations, decision-making, counseling and treatment planning in children with HLHS. In addition, we manually screened reference lists to identify further relevant literature. We aimed to explore: how do ethical considerations and decision-making processes influence the management and outcomes of fetuses and neonates with HLHS and their families across prenatal, postnatal, and long-term care? Results: Of the 115 studies, 56 met the inclusion criteria. Early diagnosis through prenatal fetal ultrasound has markedly improved survival rates by enabling better parental awareness, counseling, and decision-making. Managing HLHS requires urgent, extensive, and costly medical interventions, with outcomes influenced by the healthcare system's expertise, the experience of cardiologists and surgeons, ethical, legal, and religious considerations of the parents and medical team. The prenatal phase is crucial for optimal management, with advanced fetal ultrasound facilitating early detection. Postnatal care involves a multidisciplinary approach, including stage palliation physiology/surgery tailored to each patient. Despite surgical advancements, HLHS patients face higher morbidity and mortality rates than other patients with CHDs, with long-term survival and quality of life remaining key concerns. Ethical considerations play a significant role in the management of HLHS, encompassing the autonomy of families, the best medical interests of the child, societal, and cultural factors. Decision-making must balance full disclosure with sensitivity to parents' values and beliefs. Conclusions: Management of HLHS involves multidisciplinary approach with complex medical and ethical considerations, but the current literature lacks high-quality studies or consensus guidelines on ethical decision-making. Therefore, the influence of ethical considerations on clinical management and patient care remains unclear, highlighting the need for further research. Ključne besede: hypoplastic left heart syndrome, congenital heart defect, prenatal diagnosis, neonatal care, palliative surgery, medical ethic, multidisciplinary care, decision making Objavljeno v DiRROS: 12.12.2025; Ogledov: 151; Prenosov: 54
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4. Universal screening for familial hypercholesterolemia in preschool children and their families in Slovenia (FH-FAMILIES) : a protocol for a study of four-stage screening programMia Becker, Bernarda Vogrin, Jan Kafol, Barbara Čugalj Kern, Urh Grošelj, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is the most common metabolic disease, with prevalence estimated between 1:250 and 1:300. The affected individuals have a significantly higher risk for developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to non-affected individuals. Early CVD can be prevented with early detection and treatment of FH. In Slovenia we have been conducting a national three-staged program of universal screening for FH of preschoolers. Goals: Our goal is to collect data for 5000 children, which is approximately one-quarter of one generation of preschoolers for the year 2023 (n = 5000). Methods: Our study includes both prospective and retrospective components and is a non-interventional cohort study. The prospective component began in 2023, when a questionnaire was distributed to multiple community health centers and outpatient practices in Slovenia. Pediatricians or school medicine specialists completed these questionnaires. The retrospective component involves our research team collecting the remaining necessary data from existing medical records. We are going to follow our algorithm for the implementation of the universal cholesterol screening program and seek all children that will be referred to the Pediatric Lipid Clinic at the University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre (UCH-UMC), Ljubljana, for further genetic testing. If a child has a positive genetic result, their parents and siblings will undergo genetic testing. Conclusions: Despite being a common genetic disorder, familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is still largely underdiagnosed globally; fewer than 10% of affected individuals are thought to be identified. Early detection through effective screening is therefore essential to improve outcomes and prevent premature cardiovascular events. Ključne besede: hypercholesterolemia, universal screening, preschoolers, total cholesterol, genetic testing Objavljeno v DiRROS: 11.12.2025; Ogledov: 145; Prenosov: 58
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5. Palliative care for children and adults with inherited metabolic disease in Europe : an underutilised service for supportive treatment and careAnja Lee, Yngve Thomas Bliksrud, Michela Onali, Julia Neugebauer, Francois Eyskens, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Palliative care should be an integral part of follow-up for patients with life-limiting/life-threatening conditions, irrespective of age and diagnosis. Many patients with inherited metabolic disorders (IMD) have palliative care needs due to multi-systemic conditions without curative treatment options. To map the organisation and accessibility of palliative care across European IMD expert centres, and to explore the experiences of IMD physicians with palliative care, the European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Disorders (MetabERN) invited physicians from all 103 member institutions to participate in a survey covering various aspects of palliative care. Ninety-two physicians from 63 institutions in 23 countries participated. A national plan or strategy for palliative care had been established in most countries (87%). Both children (91%) and adults (89%) had access to palliative care services. Most paediatric (86%) and many adult IMD physicians (67%) used advance care planning. A total of 284 referrals to palliative care were reported, mostly IMD patients with lysosomal and mitochondrial disorders, and neurological, respiratory, cognitive and gastrointestinal comorbidities. However, during the past 5 years, the majority of physicians (60%) had referred 20% or fewer of their deceased patients to palliative care. Although palliative care is available in most European IMD expert centres, only a small proportion of deceased IMD patients has been referred. The findings of this study indicate both a misconception and underutilisation of modern palliative care services. Addressing existing barriers is essential, and both IMD physicians and patients may need more information about available palliative care services and up-to-date indications for referral. Ključne besede: palliative care, quality of life, patients, paediatric palliative care, inherited metabolic diseases, genetic disorders, MetabERN, The European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Disorders Objavljeno v DiRROS: 11.12.2025; Ogledov: 132; Prenosov: 64
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6. Sudden death of a four-day-old newborn due to mitochondrial trifunctional protein/long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-coa dehydrogenase deficiencies and a systematic literature review of early deaths of neonates with fatty acid oxidation disordersAna Drole Torkar, Ana Klinc, Žiga Iztok Remec, Branislava Ranković, Klara Bartolj, Sara Bertok, Sara Colja, Vanja Čuk, Maruša Debeljak, Eva Kozjek, Barbka Repič-Lampret, Matej Mlinarič, Tinka Mohar Hajnšek, Daša Perko, Katarina Štajer, Tine Tesovnik, Domen Trampuž, Blanka Ulaga, Jernej Kovač, Tadej Battelino, Mojca Žerjav-Tanšek, Urh Grošelj, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Mitochondrial trifunctional protein (MTP) and long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (LCHAD) deficiencies have been a part of the Slovenian newborn screening (NBS) program since 2018. We describe a case of early lethal presentation of MTPD/LCHADD in a term newborn. The girl was born after an uneventful pregnancy and delivery, and she was discharged home at the age of 3 days, appearing well. At the age of 4 days, she was found without signs of life. Resuscitation was not successful. The NBS test performed using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) showed a positive screen for MTPD/LCHADD. Genetic analysis performed on a dried blood spot (DBS) sample identified two heterozygous variants in the HADHA gene: a nucleotide duplication introducing a premature termination codon (p.Arg205Ter) and a nucleotide substitution (p.Glu510Gln). Post-mortem studies showed massive macro-vesicular fat accumulation in the liver and, to a smaller extent, in the heart, consistent with MTPD/LCHADD. A neonatal acute cardiac presentation resulting in demise was suspected. We conducted a systematic literature review of early neonatal deaths within 14 days postpartum attributed to confirmed fatty acid oxidation disorders (FAODs), which are estimated to account for 5% of sudden infant deaths. We discuss the pitfalls of the NBS for MTPD/LCHADD. Ključne besede: FAOD, LCHAD deficiency, LCHADD, MTP deficiency, MTPD, NBS, fatty acid oxidation disorder, newborn, newborn screening, sudden infant death Objavljeno v DiRROS: 11.12.2025; Ogledov: 102; Prenosov: 59
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7. International survey on Phenylketonuria newborn screeningDomen Trampuž, Peter C. J. I. Schielen, Rolf H. Zetterström, Maurizio Scarpa, François Feillet, Viktor Kožich, Trine Tangeraas, Ana Drole Torkar, Matej Mlinarič, Daša Perko, Žiga Iztok Remec, Barbka Repič-Lampret, Tadej Battelino, Urh Grošelj, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: ewborn screening for Phenylketonuria enables early detection and timely treatment with a phenylalanine-restricted diet to prevent severe neurological impairment. Although effective and in use for 60 years, screening, diagnostic, and treatment practices still vary widely across countries and centers. To evaluate the Phenylketonuria newborn screening practices internationally, we designed a survey with questions focusing on the laboratory aspect of the screening system. We analyzed 24 completed surveys from 23 countries. Most participants used the same sampling age range of 48–72 h; they used tandem mass spectrometry and commercial non-derivatized kits to measure phenylalanine (Phe), and had non-negative cut-off values (COV) set mostly at 120 µmol/L of Phe. Participants mostly used genetic analysis of blood and detailed amino acid analysis from blood plasma as their confirmatory methods and set the COV for the initiation of dietary therapy at 360 µmol/L of Phe. There were striking differences in practice as well. While most participants reported a 48–72 h range for age at sampling, that range was overall quite diverse Screening COV varied as well. Additional screening parameters, e.g., the phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio were used by some participants to determine the screening result. Some participants included testing for tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency, or galactosemia in their diagnostic process. Results together showed that there is room to select a best practice from the many practices applied. Such a best practice of PKU-NBS parameters and post-screening parameters could then serve as a generally applicable guideline. Ključne besede: phenylketonuria, newborn, neonatal, screening, international, survey, laboratory, methods, cut-off Objavljeno v DiRROS: 04.12.2025; Ogledov: 144; Prenosov: 66
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8. Prevalence of familial hypercholesterolemia in Pakistan : a pooled analysis of 1.5 million individuals and comparison with other countries of the regionAmjad Nawaz, Madeeha Khan, Quratul Ain, Jaka Šikonja, Hijab Batool, Muhammad Qasim Hayat, Mohammad Iqbal Khan, Urh Grošelj, Fouzia Sadiq, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Background: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder that causes elevated LDL-C levels leading to premature cardiovascular disease but remains underdiagnosed. This study aims to determine the prevalence of FH in Pakistan using data from multiple laboratory networks and compare it with other counties of the region. Methods: The study analyzed lipid profile data from two large laboratory networks in Pakistan, applying Make Early Diagnosis to Prevent Early Death (MEDPED) LDL-C criteria for the general population to identify FH cases. A pooled prevalence estimate of prevalence of FH in Pakistan was calculated by combining the data of studies reporting prevalence in Pakistan. A systematic review was conducted to assess FH prevalence in South and Southeast Asian countries. Results: Analysis of 545,087 individuals (Median age 45 years, 58.2% males) identified 2,911 FH cases [0.55%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.53–0.57%), equivalent to a prevalence of 1:182. Pooled analysis with a previous Pakistani study, totaling 1,533,393 subjects, estimated the overall FH prevalence in Pakistan at 1:273 (95% CI: 0.21–0.64%). Prevalence decreased with age, being highest in the Ključne besede: familial hypercholesterolemia, prevalence, cardiovascular disease, Pakistan, South Asia, Southeast Asia, screening Objavljeno v DiRROS: 04.12.2025; Ogledov: 130; Prenosov: 56
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9. Gene therapy of rare diseases as a milestone in medicine : overview of the field and report on initial experiences in SloveniaUrh Grošelj, Marko Kavčič, Ana Drole Torkar, Jan Kafol, Duško Lainšček, Roman Jerala, Matjaž Sever, Samo Zver, Gregor Serša, Maja Čemažar, Primož Strojan, Aleš Grošelj, Mojca Žerjav-Tanšek, Špela Miroševič, Simona Ivančan, Tomaž Prelog, David Gosar, Jasna Oražem, Matej Mlinarič, Sara Bertok, Jernej Kovač, Jana Kodrič, Saba Battelino, Marko Pokorn, Alojz Ihan, Janez Jazbec, Tadej Battelino, Damjan Osredkar, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Gene therapy has transitioned from a long-awaited promise to a clinical reality, offering transformative treatments for rare congenital diseases and certain cancers, which have a significant impact on patients’ lives. Current approaches focus on gene replacement therapy, either in vivo or ex vivo, mostly utilizing viral vectors to deliver therapeutic genes into target cells. However, refining these techniques is essential to overcome challenges and complications associated with gene therapy to ensure long-term safety and efficacy. Slovenia has witnessed significant advancements in this field since 2018, marked by successful gene therapy trials and treatments for various rare diseases. Significant strides have been made in the field of gene therapy in Slovenia, treating patients with spinal muscular atrophy and rare metabolic disorders, including the pioneering work on CTNNB1 syndrome. Additionally, immune gene therapy, exemplified by IL-12 adjuvant therapy for cancer, has been a focus of research in Slovenia. Through patient-centred initiatives and international collaborations, researchers in Slovenia are advancing preclinical research and clinical trials, paving the way for accessible gene therapies. Establishing clinical infrastructure and genomic diagnostics for rare diseases is crucial for gene therapy implementation. Efforts in this regard in Slovenia, including the establishment of a Centre for Rare Diseases, Centre for the Technologies of Gene and Cell Therapy, and rapid genomic diagnostics, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Despite the promises of gene therapy, challenges remain, including cost, distribution, efficacy, and long-term safety. Collaborative efforts are essential to address these challenges and ensure equitable access to innovative therapies for patients with rare diseases. Ključne besede: gene therapy, rare genetic diseases, Slovenia, CAR-T cells, cancer, immune gene therapy Objavljeno v DiRROS: 04.12.2025; Ogledov: 160; Prenosov: 124
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10. Gender disparity in lipid testing among over 0.5 million adults from Pakistan : females are tested much later despite higher LDL-cholesterol levelsAmjad Nawaz, Madeeha Khan, Quratul Ain, Muhammad Amjad, Jaka Šikonja, Hijab Batool, Mohammad Iqbal Khan, Urh Grošelj, Fouzia Sadiq, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Background and aims: Dyslipidemia is the major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD); therefore, its early diagnosis and treatment is necessary. While previous studies in Pakistan focused on general lipid profiles, investigations into gender disparities in lipid testing remain scarce. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the gender disparity in lipid testing and lipid levels among the adult Pakistani population. Methods: The lipid profile data was obtained from a tertiary care hospital and a diagnostic laboratory with centers across Pakistan. Dyslipidemia was defined based on the criteria provided by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines. Gender-based differences in lipid levels were analysed by copula decomposition, breaking down dyslipidemia differences into composition and structure effects. Results: A total of 577,489 adults were included in this study. The highest number of tests (n = 86,709, 14.6%) were conducted in individuals aged between 50 to 54 years. Greater number of males (n = 203,415, 64.3%) were tested before the age of 50 years compared to females (n = 113,030, 35.7%). Conversely, after the age of 50 years, number of tests increased notably among females (n = 137,541, 52.7%) compared to males (n = 123,503, 47.3%; p < 0.001). For all comparisons, significant differences were observed for low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels between males and females (p < 0.001), where average levels of LDL-C, TC and HDL-C were higher in females while average TG levels were higher in males. Conclusion: This study highlights the gender disparity in lipid testing in Pakistan, where females undergo lipid testing later in life, despite higher lipid levels compared to males. Ključne besede: cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, gender disparity, lipid testing, opportunistic testing, Pakistan Objavljeno v DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Ogledov: 133; Prenosov: 64
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