University of Queensland and Children's Health Queensland researchers have developed a fast-tracked genomic testing model that slashes diagnosis wait times for pediatric immune conditions from 12 months to two weeks. Analyzing nine years of data from 322 pediatric patients, the streamlined approach incorporates in-house pathology and multidisciplinary specialist reviews. Receiving a genetic diagnosis alters treatment plans in 90% of cases, preventing organ damage and hospital stay.
New genetic testing model reduces delays
- ▪A new genetic testing model developed by University of Queensland researchers cuts diagnosis waiting times for children with immune conditions from 12 months to two weeks.
- ▪Before the University of Queensland model, families experienced long diagnostic delays due to sending blood samples overseas and navigating referrals to multiple separate specialists.
University of Queensland pediatric immunology study
- ▪A University of Queensland and Children's Health Queensland study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology evaluated nine years of genetic test data from 322 children.
- ▪Dr. Tatiane Yanes from the University of Queensland's Frazer Institute stated researchers conducted the study to evaluate how a new model of care could improve genetic testing rates.
Multidisciplinary team meetings at Queensland Children's Hospital
- ▪Multidisciplinary case sharing at Queensland Children's Hospital allows medical specialists across disciplines to continuously improve their skills while coordinating unified patient care.
- ▪Queensland Children's Hospital established regular multidisciplinary team meetings for specialists to review pediatric immunology cases, eliminating separate specialist referrals for families.
Background on rare pediatric immune conditions
- ▪More than 500 rare genetic immune conditions exist that increase children's vulnerability to life-threatening infections, allergies, inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer.
- ▪Treatments for pediatric genetic immune conditions vary by disorder and include stem cell transplants, blood antibody infusions, or targeted infection prevention strategies.
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