What is a Targeted Literature Review (TLR)?
A targeted literature review is a survey or a focused assessment of a specific topic. It provides an overview of current knowledge, key evidence and data available allowing those who are analysing it to identify relevant trends, theories, methods, and gaps in the existing research.
Commissioned by HBA Support and carried out on a pro bono basis by Costello Medical, an expert healthcare consultancy, the new report compiles literature on the rare disease in one, accessible, resource. The in-depth TLR looked at three key areas:
Prevalence and Incidence
Studies have shown that people with a family history of brain aneurysms are more likely to have an aneurysm themselves. However, no studies have reported the prevalence and incidence of familial intracranial aneurysms (hereditary brain aneurysms) within the general population. This would give valuable insight into the predicted number of total individuals affected by the condition and support the finalisation and updating of screening recommendations.
Genomics
Multiple genetic candidates have been associated with hereditary brain aneurysms. However, the discrepancies between some studies and the limited understanding of how genetic variants lead to brain aneurysm development mean there is not a ‘confirmed’ list of genetic candidates that cause hereditary brain aneurysms. Further research into this area may help consolidate the list of genetic candidates and allow for genetic screening techniques to be developed.
National and International Guidelines
There are few national and international guidelines available covering the management and treatment of hereditary brain aneurysms. This indicates that the current clinical approach may be variable. Where guidance is specific to hereditary brain aneurysms, it is mostly focused on the screening of high-risk individuals. Tailored treatment guidelines would be valuable in the UK and globally.
The need for more research and collaboration
We know that more research, together with collaboration between clinicians and those affected by hereditary brain aneurysms, will improve the support available to those affected and their families. Eventually, with increased knowledge, better genetic testing and targeted screening within high-risk families could be offered, saving lives and minimising the stress and worry that a diagnosis can cause. Eventually, we hope that a simple blood test could be an effective way of screening people.
This TLR is the first step in changing the landscape for support and information for families with this rare, hereditary condition. We hope the overview proves useful for the patient, research and clinical communities. Through this knowledge and collaboration, we hope to open doors for better dialogue, more research and greater support for the families impacted by this potentially devastating condition.
Read the full research here: Familial Intracranial Aneurysm Research,
A Word version is also available for screen readers and other devices, to download click here
