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Bate S, McGovern D, Costigliolo F, Tan PG, Kratky V, Scott J, Chapman GB, Brown N, Floyd L, Brilland B, Martín-Nares E, Aydın MF, Ilyas D, Butt A, Nic an Riogh E, Kollar M, Lees JS, Yildiz A, Hinojosa-Azaola A, Dhaygude A, Roberts SA, Rosenberg A, Wiech T, Pusey CD, Jones RB, Jayne DR, Bajema I, Jennette JC, Stevens KI, Augusto JF, Mejía-Vilet JM, Dhaun N, McAdoo SP, Tesar V, Little MA, Geetha D, Brix SR. The Improved Kidney Risk Score in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis for Clinical Practice and Trials. J Am Soc Nephrol 2024; 35:335-346. [PMID: 38082490 PMCID: PMC10914211 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000000000274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Reliable prediction tools are needed to personalize treatment in ANCA-associated GN. More than 1500 patients were collated in an international longitudinal study to revise the ANCA kidney risk score. The score showed satisfactory performance, mimicking the original study (Harrell's C=0.779). In the development cohort of 959 patients, no additional parameters aiding the tool were detected, but replacing the GFR with creatinine identified an additional cutoff. The parameter interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy was modified to allow wider access, risk points were reweighted, and a fourth risk group was created, improving predictive ability (C=0.831). In the validation, the new model performed similarly well with excellent calibration and discrimination ( n =480, C=0.821). The revised score optimizes prognostication for clinical practice and trials. BACKGROUND Reliable prediction tools are needed to personalize treatment in ANCA-associated GN. A retrospective international longitudinal cohort was collated to revise the ANCA renal risk score. METHODS The primary end point was ESKD with patients censored at last follow-up. Cox proportional hazards were used to reweight risk factors. Kaplan-Meier curves, Harrell's C statistic, receiver operating characteristics, and calibration plots were used to assess model performance. RESULTS Of 1591 patients, 1439 were included in the final analyses, 2:1 randomly allocated per center to development and validation cohorts (52% male, median age 64 years). In the development cohort ( n =959), the ANCA renal risk score was validated and calibrated, and parameters were reinvestigated modifying interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy allowing semiquantitative reporting. An additional cutoff for kidney function (K) was identified, and serum creatinine replaced GFR (K0: <250 µ mol/L=0, K1: 250-450 µ mol/L=4, K2: >450 µ mol/L=11 points). The risk points for the percentage of normal glomeruli (N) and interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (T) were reweighted (N0: >25%=0, N1: 10%-25%=4, N2: <10%=7, T0: none/mild or <25%=0, T1: ≥ mild-moderate or ≥25%=3 points), and four risk groups created: low (0-4 points), moderate (5-11), high (12-18), and very high (21). Discrimination was C=0.831, and the 3-year kidney survival was 96%, 79%, 54%, and 19%, respectively. The revised score performed similarly well in the validation cohort with excellent calibration and discrimination ( n =480, C=0.821). CONCLUSIONS The updated score optimizes clinicopathologic prognostication for clinical practice and trials.
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Smith RM, Jones RB, Specks U, Bond S, Nodale M, Al-Jayyousi R, Andrews J, Bruchfeld A, Camilleri B, Carette S, Cheung CK, Derebail V, Doulton T, Ferraro A, Forbess L, Fujimoto S, Furuta S, Gewurz-Singer O, Harper L, Ito-Ihara T, Khalidi N, Klocke R, Koening C, Komagata Y, Langford C, Lanyon P, Luqmani R, McAlear C, Moreland LW, Mynard K, Nachman P, Pagnoux C, Peh CA, Pusey C, Ranganathan D, Rhee RL, Spiera R, Sreih AG, Tesar V, Walters G, Wroe C, Jayne D, Merkel PA. Rituximab versus azathioprine for maintenance of remission for patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis and relapsing disease: an international randomised controlled trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:937-944. [PMID: 36958796 PMCID: PMC10313987 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Following induction of remission with rituximab in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) relapse rates are high, especially in patients with history of relapse. Relapses are associated with increased exposure to immunosuppressive medications, the accrual of damage and increased morbidity and mortality. The RITAZAREM trial compared the efficacy of repeat-dose rituximab to daily oral azathioprine for prevention of relapse in patients with relapsing AAV in whom remission was reinduced with rituximab. METHODS RITAZAREM was an international randomised controlled, open-label, superiority trial that recruited 188 patients at the time of an AAV relapse from 29 centres in seven countries between April 2013 and November 2016. All patients received rituximab and glucocorticoids to reinduce remission. Patients achieving remission by 4 months were randomised to receive rituximab intravenously (1000 mg every 4 months, through month 20) (85 patients) or azathioprine (2 mg/kg/day, tapered after month 24) (85 patients) and followed for a minimum of 36 months. The primary outcome was time to disease relapse (either major or minor relapse). RESULTS Rituximab was superior to azathioprine in preventing relapse: HR 0.41; 95% CI 0.27 to 0.61, p<0.001. 19/85 (22%) patients in the rituximab group and 31/85 (36%) in the azathioprine group experienced at least one serious adverse event during the treatment period. There were no differences in rates of hypogammaglobulinaemia or infection between groups. CONCLUSIONS Following induction of remission with rituximab, fixed-interval, repeat-dose rituximab was superior to azathioprine for preventing disease relapse in patients with AAV with a prior history of relapse. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01697267; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier.
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Benichou N, Charles P, Terrier B, Jones RB, Hiemstra T, Mouthon L, Bajema I, Berden A, Thervet E, Guillevin L, Jayne D, Karras A. PROTEINURIA AND HEMATURIA AFTER REMISSION INDUCTION ARE ASSOCIATED WITH OUTCOME IN ANCA-ASSOCIATED VASCULITIS. Kidney Int 2023; 103:1144-1155. [PMID: 36940799 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2023.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
In anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV), hematuria and proteinuria are biomarkers reflecting kidney involvement at diagnosis. Yet, the prognostic value of their persistence after immunosuppressive induction therapy, reflecting kidney damage or persistent disease, remains uncertain. To study this, our post-hoc analysis included participants of five European randomized clinical trials on AAV (MAINRITSAN, MAINRITSAN2, RITUXVAS, MYCYC, IMPROVE). Urine protein-creatinine ratio (UPCR) and hematuria of spot urine samples collected at the end of induction therapy (four-six months after treatment initiation) were correlated with the occurrence of a combined endpoint of death and/or kidney failure, or relapses during follow-up. Among 571 patients (59% men, median age 60), 60% had anti-proteinase 3-ANCA and 35% had anti-myeloperoxidase-ANCA, while 77% had kidney involvement. After induction therapy, 157/526 (29.8%) had persistent hematuria and 165/481 (34.3%) had UPCR of 0.05 g/mmol or more. After a median follow-up of 28 months (inter quartile range 18-42), and adjustment for age, ANCA type, maintenance therapy, serum creatinine and persistent hematuria after induction, a UPCR of 0.05 g/mmol or more after induction was associated with significant risk of death/kidney failure (adjusted Hazard Ratio (HR) 3.06, 95% confidence interval (1.09-8.59) and kidney relapse (adjusted subdistribution HR 2.22, 1.16-4.24). Persistent hematuria was associated with significant kidney relapse (adjusted subdistribution HR 2.16, (1.13-4.11) but not with relapse affecting any organ nor with death/kidney failure. Thus, in this large cohort of patients with AAV, persistent proteinuria after induction therapy was associated with death/kidney failure and kidney relapse, whereas persistent hematuria was an independent predictor of kidney relapse. Hence, these parameters must be considered to assess long-term kidney prognosis of patients with AAV.
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McClure ME, Gopaluni S, Wason J, Henderson RB, Van Maurik A, Savage CCO, Pusey CD, Salama AD, Lyons PA, Lee J, Mynard K, Jayne DR, Jones RB. A randomised study of rituximab and belimumab sequential therapy in PR3 ANCA-associated vasculitis (COMBIVAS): design of the study protocol. Trials 2023; 24:180. [PMID: 36906660 PMCID: PMC10007661 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07218-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sequential B cell-targeted immunotherapy with BAFF antagonism (belimumab) and B cell depletion (rituximab) may enhance B cell targeting in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) through several mechanisms. METHODS Study design: COMBIVAS is a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial designed to assess the mechanistic effects of sequential therapy of belimumab and rituximab in patients with active PR3 AAV. The recruitment target is 30 patients who meet the criteria for inclusion in the per-protocol analysis. Thirty-six participants have been randomised to one of the two treatment groups in a 1:1 ratio: either rituximab plus belimumab or rituximab plus placebo (both groups with the same tapering corticosteroid regimen), and recruitment is now closed (final patient enrolled April 2021). For each patient, the trial will last for 2 years comprising a 12-month treatment period followed by a 12-month follow-up period. PARTICIPANTS Participants have been recruited from five of seven UK trial sites. Eligibility criteria were age ≥ 18 years and a diagnosis of AAV with active disease (newly diagnosed or relapsing disease), along with a concurrent positive test for PR3 ANCA by ELISA. INTERVENTIONS Rituximab 1000 mg was administered by intravenous infusions on day 8 and day 22. Weekly subcutaneous injections of 200 mg belimumab or placebo were initiated a week before rituximab on day 1 and then weekly through to week 51. All participants received a relatively low prednisolone (20 mg/day) starting dose from day 1 followed by a protocol-specified corticosteroid taper aiming for complete cessation by 3 months. OUTCOMES The primary endpoint of this study is time to PR3 ANCA negativity. Key secondary outcomes include change from baseline in naïve, transitional, memory, plasmablast B cell subsets (by flow cytometry) in the blood at months 3, 12, 18 and 24; time to clinical remission; time to relapse; and incidence of serious adverse events. Exploratory biomarker assessments include assessment of B cell receptor clonality, B cell and T cell functional assays, whole blood transcriptomic analysis and urinary lymphocyte and proteomic analysis. Inguinal lymph node and nasal mucosal biopsies have been performed on a subgroup of patients at baseline and month 3. DISCUSSION This experimental medicine study provides a unique opportunity to gain detailed insights into the immunological mechanisms of belimumab-rituximab sequential therapy across multiple body compartments in the setting of AAV. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03967925. Registered on May 30, 2019.
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McGovern D, Jones RB, Willcocks LC, Smith RM, Jayne DRW, Kronbichler A. Avacopan for ANCA-associated vasculitis – information for prescribers. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2022; 38:1067-1070. [PMID: 36496198 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfac330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Smith RM, Cooper DJ, Doffinger R, Stacey H, Al-Mohammad A, Goodfellow I, Baker S, Lear S, Hosmilo M, Pritchard N, Torpey N, Jayne D, Yiu V, Chalisey A, Lee J, Vilnar E, Cheung CK, Jones RB. SARS-COV-2 vaccine responses in renal patient populations. BMC Nephrol 2022; 23:199. [PMID: 35641961 PMCID: PMC9153874 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-022-02792-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Dialysis patients and immunosuppressed renal patients are at increased risk of COVID-19 and were excluded from vaccine trials. We conducted a prospective multicentre study to assess SARS-CoV-2 vaccine antibody responses in dialysis patients and renal transplant recipients, and patients receiving immunosuppression for autoimmune disease.
Methods
Patients were recruited from three UK centres (ethics:20/EM/0180) and compared to healthy controls (ethics:17/EE/0025). SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies to spike protein were measured using a multiplex Luminex assay, after first and second doses of Pfizer BioNTech BNT162b2(Pfizer) or Oxford-AstraZeneca ChAdOx1nCoV-19(AZ) vaccine.
Results
Six hundred ninety-two patients were included (260 dialysis, 209 transplant, 223 autoimmune disease (prior rituximab 128(57%)) and 144 healthy controls. 299(43%) patients received Pfizer vaccine and 379(55%) received AZ. Following two vaccine doses, positive responses occurred in 96% dialysis, 52% transplant, 70% autoimmune patients and 100% of healthy controls. In dialysis patients, higher antibody responses were observed with the Pfizer vaccination. Predictors of poor antibody response were triple immunosuppression (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]0.016;95%CI0.002–0.13;p < 0.001) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) (aOR0.2;95%CI 0.1–0.42;p < 0.001) in transplant patients; rituximab within 12 months in autoimmune patients (aOR0.29;95%CI 0.008–0.096;p < 0.001) and patients receiving immunosuppression with eGFR 15-29 ml/min (aOR0.031;95%CI 0.11–0.84;p = 0.021). Lower antibody responses were associated with a higher chance of a breakthrough infection.
Conclusions
Amongst dialysis, kidney transplant and autoimmune populations SARS-CoV-2 vaccine antibody responses are reduced compared to healthy controls. A reduced response to vaccination was associated with rituximab, MMF, triple immunosuppression CKD stage 4. Vaccine responses increased after the second dose, suggesting low-responder groups should be prioritised for repeated vaccination. Greater antibody responses were observed with the mRNA Pfizer vaccine compared to adenovirus AZ vaccine in dialysis patients suggesting that Pfizer SARS-CoV-2 vaccine should be the preferred vaccine choice in this sub-group.
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Carr EJ, Wu M, Harvey R, Billany RE, Wall EC, Kelly G, Howell M, Kassiotis G, Swanton C, Gandhi S, Bauer DL, Graham-Brown MP, Jones RB, Smith RM, McAdoo S, Willicombe M, Beale R. Omicron neutralising antibodies after COVID-19 vaccination in haemodialysis patients. Lancet 2022; 399:800-802. [PMID: 35065703 PMCID: PMC8776276 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)00104-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Suchanek O, Jayne DRW, Jones RB. Therapeutic dilemmas in relapsing renal ANCA-associated vasculitis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:iii60-iii62. [PMID: 34137872 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Trivedi S, Prasinou M, Loudon K, Jones RB, Smith RM. Fever on an airline flight: a diagnostic challenge. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:iii21-iii23. [PMID: 34137882 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Mansfield Smith SC, Clare G, Jones RB. Pregnancy following rituximab for orbital eosinophilic angiocentric fibrosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:iii57-iii59. [PMID: 34137878 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Cheema K, Cox A, Coles A, Scott K, Willcocks L, Jones RB. Deciphering neurological symptoms in ANCA-associated vasculitis, uncontrolled disease or a complication of therapy. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:iii67-iii69. [PMID: 34137879 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Loudon KW, Parmar J, Jayne DRW, Jones RB. Aggressive vasculitis after lung transplantation for cystic fibrosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:iii47-iii49. [PMID: 34137874 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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McClure ME, Zhu Y, Smith RM, Gopaluni S, Tieu J, Pope T, Kristensen KE, Jayne DRW, Barrett J, Jones RB. Long-term maintenance rituximab for ANCA-associated vasculitis: relapse and infection prediction models. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:1491-1501. [PMID: 33141217 PMCID: PMC7937025 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Following a maintenance course of rituximab (RTX) for ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), relapses occur on cessation of therapy, and further dosing is considered. This study aimed to develop relapse and infection risk prediction models to help guide decision making regarding extended RTX maintenance therapy. METHODS Patients with a diagnosis of AAV who received 4-8 grams of RTX as maintenance treatment between 2002 and 2018 were included. Both induction and maintenance doses were included; most patients received standard departmental protocol consisting of 2× 1000 mg 2 weeks apart, followed by 1000 mg every 6 months for 2 years. Patients who continued on repeat RTX dosing long-term were excluded. Separate risk prediction models were derived for the outcomes of relapse and infection. RESULTS A total of 147 patients were included in this study with a median follow-up of 63 months [interquartile range (IQR): 34-93]. Relapse: At time of last RTX, the model comprised seven predictors, with a corresponding C-index of 0.54. Discrimination between individuals using this model was not possible; however, discrimination could be achieved by grouping patients into low- and high-risk groups. When the model was applied 12 months post last RTX, the ability to discriminate relapse risk between individuals improved (C-index 0.65), and once again, clear discrimination was observed between patients from low- and high-risk groups. Infection: At time of last RTX, five predictors were retained in the model. The C-index was 0.64 allowing discrimination between low and high risk of infection groups. At 12 months post RTX, the C-index for the model was 0.63. Again, clear separation of patients from two risk groups was observed. CONCLUSION While our models had insufficient power to discriminate risk between individual patients they were able to assign patients into risk groups for both relapse and infection. The ability to identify risk groups may help in decisions regarding the potential benefit of ongoing RTX treatment. However, we caution the use of these prediction models until prospective multi-centre validation studies have been performed.
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Brix SR, Jones RB, Jayne DRW. Glomerular basement membrane nephritis: crescentic renal inflammation and immunosuppressive intervention in the time of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic. Kidney Int 2021; 99:1234-1235. [PMID: 33581197 PMCID: PMC7875705 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Van de Perre E, Jones RB, Jayne DRW. IgA vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein purpura): refractory and relapsing disease course in the adult population. Clin Kidney J 2021; 14:1953-1960. [PMID: 34345419 PMCID: PMC8323141 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfaa251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The disease course of adult immunoglobulin A (IgA) vasculitis (IgAV; Henoch–Schönlein purpura) has not been well defined. Methods In a retrospective survey, we studied 85 adult IgAV patients with extended follow-up (median 43 months) for 67 patients. Results Only 33 of 67 (49%) achieved complete remission. Ongoing renal disease was the most common persistent organ manifestation, but extra-renal disease activity was also present in >50% of patients not achieving complete remission. Twenty-nine of 67 (43%) had relapsing disease, with 18/67 (27%) experiencing several relapses. Skin disease was the most common feature in relapsing patients, followed by nephritis. At 4 years of follow-up, 6 of 29 (21%) experienced progressive disease and 10/29 (34%) relapsing disease. Five of 67 (7%) developed nephritis after diagnosis, within the first 6 months of follow-up. At final follow-up, 10 of 67 (15%) had chronic kidney disease Stage ≥G3a, 18 (27%) haematuria and 13 (19%) proteinuria. No therapy appeared particularly effective and only 6/17 patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil experienced a good response. Conclusions The disease course of adult IgAV is different from that seen in children, with higher frequency of persisting and relapsing disease. Renal disease is the main determinant of ongoing disease activity, but extra-renal features were seen in >50% of patients with chronic disease activity. No clear conclusions on use or choice of immunosuppressive agent could be made based on our experience.
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Barrett C, Willcocks LC, Jones RB, Tarzi RM, Henderson RB, Cai G, Gisbert SI, Belson AS, Savage CO. Effect of belimumab on proteinuria and anti-phospholipase A2 receptor autoantibody in primary membranous nephropathy. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2020; 35:599-606. [PMID: 31243451 PMCID: PMC7139214 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfz086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Immunosuppressant drugs reduce proteinuria and anti-phospholipase A2 receptor autoantibodies (PLA2R-Ab) in primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) with varying success and associated toxicities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of belimumab on proteinuria and PLA2R-Ab in participants with PMN. Methods In this prospective, open-label, experimental medicine study, 14 participants with PMN and persistent nephrotic-range proteinuria received up to 2 years belimumab monotherapy (10 mg/kg, every 4 weeks). Changes in proteinuria (urinary protein:creatinine ratio), PLA2R-Ab, albumin, cholesterol, B-cell subsets and pharmacokinetics were analysed during treatment and up to 6 months after treatment. Results Eleven participants completed to the primary endpoint (Week 28) and nine participants completed the study. In the intention-to-treat population population, baseline proteinuria of 724 mg/mmol [95% confidence interval (CI) 579–906] decreased to 498 mg/mmol (95% CI 383–649) and 130 mg/mmol (95% CI 54–312) at Weeks 28 and 104, respectively, with changes statistically significant from Week 36 (n = 11, P = 0.047). PLA2R-Ab decreased from 174 RU/mL (95% CI 79–384) at baseline to 46 RU/mL (95% CI 16–132) and 4 RU/mL (95% CI 2–6) at Weeks 28 and 104, respectively, becoming statistically significant by Week 12 (n = 13, P = 0.02). Nine participants achieved partial (n = 8) or complete (n = 1) remission. Participants with abnormal albumin and/or cholesterol at baseline gained normal/near normal levels by the last follow-up. Adverse events were consistent with those expected in this population. Conclusions Belimumab treatment in participants with PMN can reduce PLA2R-Ab and subsequently proteinuria, important preludes to remission induction.
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Tieu J, Smith R, Basu N, Brogan P, D'Cruz D, Dhaun N, Flossmann O, Harper L, Jones RB, Lanyon PC, Luqmani RA, McAdoo SP, Mukhtyar C, Pearce FA, Pusey CD, Robson JC, Salama AD, Smyth L, Watts RA, Willcocks LC, Jayne DRW. Rituximab for maintenance of remission in ANCA-associated vasculitis: expert consensus guidelines. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:e24-e32. [PMID: 32096545 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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Cassia M, Jones RB, Cagna D, Smith R, Casazza G, Jeannin G, Zani R, Moroni G, Sinico RA, Emmi G, Vaglio A, Gallieni M, Scolari F, Jayne D, Alberici F. P0346THE EFFECTS OF RITUXIMAB MAINTENANCE THERAPY ON LUPUS NEPHRITIS. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfaa142.p0346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Aims
Lupus Nephritis (LN) is the organ manifestation with the most severe prognosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Treatment options are limited due to partial efficacy, intolerance or side effects; moreover 10% of patients reach ESRD despite treatments. Rituximab (RTX) in LN is recommended as second line drug for induction of the remission after failure of Cyclophosphimide or Mycophenolate Mofetil. We have shown a role for RTX as maintenance therapy (RMT) in SLE however the effects of such approach on LN are still unclear. Aim of this study was a sub-analyses of a cohort of SLE patients treated with RTX focusing on the ones with active LN at the moment of the first RTX administration.
Methods
Patients with active LN at the time of the first RTX administration within a cohort of 147 patients with SLE were identified. Patients with SLE and a flare of LN were classified as treated with a “Single RTX course” (any RTX regimen administered within a single month) (SRC) or with RMT. Patients receiving at least three SRCs with the aim of relapse prevention and within 4 to 8 months between consecutive treatments, were classified as receiving RMT.
LN activity was determined according to creatinine, proteinuria and haematuria; complete response (CR) was defined as a decrease of proteinuria to <0.5 g/day, normal creatinine and negative urinary sediment; partial response (PR) was defined as ≥50% improvement in creatinine and proteinuria, treatment failure (TF) was any other condition. A renal flare (RF) was defined as an increase of creatinine and/or proteinuria >30% or the detection of an active urinary sediment due, according to the treating physician, to active disease.
Results
33 patients were identified; a renal biopsy had been performed in 76% with prevalence of class IV lupus nephritis in 16/33 (48%). Six months after RTX the rate of CR, PR and TF was respectively 36%, 27% and 36%; proteinuria and the prednisolone dose reduced significantly compared to baseline (respectively from a median of 2200 mg/day (IQR 499-5400) to 850 mg/day (IQR 400-1700) (p=0.005)) and from 25 mg (IQR 11-25) to 10 mg (IQR 6.125-15) (p<0.0001)). At univariate analyses the only factor associate to the risk of TF was a high number of immunosuppressive drugs employed before RTX (p=0.0077).
Of the 33 patients, 11 received RMT with a median duration of 18 months (IQR 12,6-23,4) and a median RTX dose of 5 g (IQR 4-6). During the RMT 3 patients experienced a renal flare.
The median follow-up after the last RTX administration within the SRC and the RMT groups was respectively 15 months (IQR 13,5-18,4) and 16 months (IQR 3,5-23). Comparing the RF free-survival of the two subgroups after the last RTX infusion, there was a trend towards a longer relapse free survival after the RMT (p=0.057) (figure, left panel). Of interest, the renal relapse free-survival of the 11 patients treated with RMT after the last RTX infusion was significantly longer compared to the one of the same group after the first RTX (p=0.0271) (figure, right panel).
The incidence of SAEs per 100 patient years was 0.31 in the SRC group and 0.74 in the RMT group.
Conclusion
RTX is confirmed as an effective option for patients with LN. A RMT may have a role in improving LN disease control compared to a single RTX administration.
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Egan A, Sivasothy P, Gore R, MartinezDel-Pero M, Willcocks L, Smith R, Burns S, Owen C, Jones RB, Jayne D. P0373MEPOLIZUMAB THERAPY FOR EOSINOPHILIC GRANULOMATOSIS WITH POLYANGIITIS (EGPA) - ONE YEAR FOLLOW-UP STUDY USING ANTI-IL5 AS A STEROID SPARING THERAPEUTIC APPROACH. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfaa142.p0373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Aims
EGPA is a small vessel vasculitis characterised by the presence of tissue eosinophilia, necrotising vasculitis and granulomatous inflammation1. Typically, a prodromal asthmatic phase, leads to an eosinophilic stage, which can evolve to include the presence of vasculitis with renal manifestations. In the recent randomised, placebo-controlled MIRRA trial for relapsing and refractory EGPA, adjuvant therapy with anti-IL5 mAB Mepolizumab [MEPO] at 300mg s/c monthly, accrued longer times in remission, reduced steroid exposure and reduced relapse rates2. The aim of our study was to analyse the response and outcome for EGPA patients who received 100mg s/c of MEPO monthly for a minimum of 52 weeks, with particular focus on the steroid minimisation benefits.
Method
This retrospective, descriptive study analysed 13 patients with EGPA, who received 100mg s/m monthly MEPO therapy under the eosinophilic asthma care-pathway. Time points of assessment included MEPO commencement [M0] and 12 [M12] months.
Results
One patient had MEPO switched to Rituximab to treat both EGPA and new onset rheumatoid arthritis
Conclusion
The relapsing nature of EGPA places a potential dependency of therapy on steroids for asthmatic and vasculitic flares. This underscores the importance of targeted pathway specific biologic therapy to minimise steroid exposure, prevent tissue damage and ensure early response to therapy. This study demonstrates that anti-IL5 serves as a favourable model with steroid minimisation, improvement in asthma control questionnaire, reduction in BVAS and eosinophil counts at the 100mg s/c dosage. ANCA positive serology normalised in all four patients, independent of subtype. Well tolerated, it demonstrated considerable clinical benefit, with 12 patients [92.3%] continuing anti-IL5 therapy beyond 12 months. Adjuvant therapy with conventional immunosuppressants was well tolerated and renal function was preserved.
ADDIN Mendeley Bibliography CSL_BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. J.C.Jenette, et al Revised International Chapel Hil Consensus Conference Nomenclature of Vasculitides. 65, 1–11 (2013).
2. Wechsler, M. E. et al. Mepolizumab or Placebo for Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis. N. Engl. J. Med. 376, 1921–1932 (2017).
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Harper L, Jones RB. Response to: ‘MYCYC, unravelling the long road ahead in ANCA-associated vasculitis’ by Jain et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:e58. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-215254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Tieu J, Smith R, Basu N, Brogan P, D’Cruz D, Dhaun N, Flossmann O, Harper L, Jones RB, Lanyon PC, Luqmani RA, McAdoo SP, Mukhtyar C, Pearce FA, Pusey CD, Robson JC, Salama AD, Smyth L, Watts RA, Willcocks LC, Jayne DRW. Rituximab for maintenance of remission in ANCA-associated vasculitis: expert consensus guidelines—Executive summary. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:727-731. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Pepper RJ, McAdoo SP, Moran SM, Kelly D, Scott J, Hamour S, Burns A, Griffith M, Galliford J, Levy JB, Cairns TD, Gopaluni S, Jones RB, Jayne D, Little MA, Pusey CD, Salama AD. A novel glucocorticoid-free maintenance regimen for anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:260-268. [PMID: 30239910 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Glucocorticoids (GCs) are a mainstay of treatment for patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) but are associated with significant adverse effects. Effective remission induction in severe AAV using extremely limited GC exposure has not been attempted. We tested an early rapid GC withdrawal induction regimen for patients with severe AAV. Methods Patients with active MPO- or PR3-ANCA vasculitis or ANCA-negative pauci-immune glomerulonephritis were included. Induction treatment consisted of two doses of rituximab, 3 months of low-dose CYC and a short course of oral GC (for between 1 and 2 weeks). Clinical, biochemical and immunological outcomes as well as adverse events were recorded. Results A total of 49 patients were included, with at least 12 months of follow-up in 46. All patients achieved remission, with decreases observed in creatinine, proteinuria, CRP, ANCA level and BVAS. Three patients requiring dialysis at presentation became dialysis independent. Two patients required the introduction of maintenance GC for treatment of vasculitis. Overall outcomes were comparable to those of two matched cohorts (n = 172) from previous European Vasculitis Society (EUVAS) trials, but with lower total exposure to CYC and GCs (P < 0.001) and reduced rates of severe infections (P = 0.02) compared with the RITUXVAS (rituximab versus cyclophosphamide in AAV) trial. We found no new cases of diabetes in the first year compared with historic rates of 8.2% from the EUVAS trials (P = 0.04). Conclusion Early GC withdrawal in severe AAV is as effective for remission induction as the standard of care and is associated with reduced GC-related adverse events.
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Cassia MA, Alberici F, Jones RB, Smith RM, Casazza G, Urban ML, Emmi G, Moroni G, Sinico RA, Messa P, Hall F, Vaglio A, Gallieni M, Jayne DR. Rituximab as Maintenance Treatment for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Multicenter Observational Study of 147 Patients. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 71:1670-1680. [PMID: 31102498 DOI: 10.1002/art.40932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The efficacy of rituximab (RTX) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a subject of debate. This study was undertaken to investigate the outcomes of RTX treatment in a European SLE cohort, with an emphasis on the role of RTX as a maintenance agent. METHODS All patients with SLE who were receiving RTX as induction therapy in 4 centers were included. Patients who received a single course of RTX and those who received RTX maintenance treatment (RMT) were followed up after treatment. Disease flares during the follow-up period were defined as an increase in disease activity and the number or dose of immunosuppressive drugs. RESULTS Of 147 patients, 27% experienced treatment failure at 6 months. In a multivariate analysis, a low number of previous immunosuppressive therapies (P = 0.034) and low C4 levels (P = 0.008) reduced the risk of treatment failure. Eighty patients received RMT over a median of 24.5 months during which 85 relapses, mainly musculoskeletal, were recorded (1.06 per patient). At the time of the last RTX course, 84% of the patients were in remission. Twenty-eight (35%) of 80 patients never experienced a flare during RMT and had low damage accrual. Active articular disease at the time of the first RTX administration was associated with a risk of flare during RMT (P = 0.011). After RMT, relapse-free survival was similar to that in patients receiving a single RTX course (P = 0.72). CONCLUSION RMT is a potential treatment option for patients with difficult-to-treat disease. Relapses occur during RMT and are more likely in those with active articular disease at the time of the first RTX administration. Relapse risk after RMT remains high and apparently comparable to that seen after a single RTX course.
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