Publication of March 2021

Primary hyperoxaluria Type I (PH1) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by the functional defect of hepatic alanine-glyoxylate aminotransferase, which results in overproduction of oxalate. The condition can be especially devastating for the kidneys, leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) during the first two to three decades of life in most patients. Currently, while the conservative treatment options are limited, they often prove inefficient in preventing ESRD. Consequently, many PH1 patients require kidney transplantation, and liver transplantation as well, which is currently the only definitive treatment option for counteracting the hepatic metabolic defect. Nevertheless, a therapeutic revolution is underway. Indeed, innovative drugs are currently being tested in clinical trials, and some preliminary data reveal their impressive efficacy in reduce hepatic oxalate overproduction. This paper reviews the current knowledge on this subject.

The COVID-19 crisis has had a particular impact on the mental health of children and youth. Access to care has been rendered more complex, owing to interposed screens, management limitations, and a decreased possibility for calling on third instances. This contribution highlights several support areas presented by the Psychiatric Service for Children and Adolescents of the Saint-Luc clinics.