Determination of deferasirox plasma concentrations: do gender, physical and genetic differences affect chelation efficacy?
The results could indicate that a higher plasma DFX concentration could be associated with greater chelation efficacy. As a correlation between dose and CDFX was not demonstrated, it seems useful to monitor the concentrations to optimize and determine the most appropriate dose for each patient. Interesting results emerged from the analysis of genetic and physical characteristics of patients: LBM was a borderline significant effect modifier of the relationship between UGT1A1 polymorphisms and CDFX . Individual patient-tailored dosing of DFX should help to improve iron chelation efficacy and to reduce dose-dependent drug toxicity.
Percutaneous nephrostomy performed with a micropuncture system in patients with normal coagulation profiles does not significantly decrease organ bleeding or pain. More needle passes and manipulations are required, which may increase procedure duration. The additional costs of routine micropuncture access for percutaneous nephrostomy are not supported by this study.