Prevalence and natural history of schwannomas in neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2): the influence of pathogenic variants.

This study explores the natural history of vestibular, trigeminal and lower cranial nerve schwannomas (VS, TS, LCNS) in patients with Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), to understand how pathogenic variants (PVs) of the NF2 gene affect tumour burden and growth rate, via a retrospective analysis of a UK NF2 centre database and imaging. VS, TS and LCNS location and size were measured in accordance with a standardised protocol. PVs were categorised in accordance with the UK NF2 Genetic Severity Score (GSS).

Frequency and risk factors for donor reactions in an anonymous blood donor survey.

Background: Adverse donor reactions can result in injury and decrease the likelihood of donor return. Reaction reports captured in the blood center's database provide an incomplete picture of reaction rates and risk factors.

Study Design And Methods: We performed an anonymous survey, mailed to 40,000 donors in 2008, including questions about symptoms, height, weight, sex, and donation status.

Effect of changing the age criteria for blood donors.

Background And Objectives: The upper age limit for allogeneic blood donation varies among countries and blood operators. We assessed the impact of the removal of the upper age limit for donation in Canada from December 2004 to January 2006.

Materials And Methods: Starting in December 2004, regular donors were permitted to continue whole blood or apheresis donation past their 71st birthday, provided an annual external medical assessment was performed by their family physician.