551
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Mebrahtu TF, Morgan AW, West RM, Stewart PM, Pujades-Rodriguez M. Oral glucocorticoids and incidence of hypertension in people with chronic inflammatory diseases: a population-based cohort study. CMAJ 2020; 192:E295-E301. [PMID: 32392512 PMCID: PMC7101178 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.191012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a few population-based studies have examined the association between glucocorticoids and hypertension, with inconsistent results. We aimed to investigate the effect of oral glucocorticoids on incidence of hypertension in adults with chronic inflammatory diseases. METHODS We analyzed electronic health records from 389 practices in England during 1998-2017 of adults diagnosed with any of 6 chronic inflammatory diseases but with no previous diagnosis of hypertension. We used glucocorticoid prescription data to construct time-variant daily and cumulative variables of prednisolone-equivalent dose (cumulated from 1 year before the start of follow-up) and estimated incidence rates and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for hypertension using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS Among 71 642 patients in the cohort, 24 896 (34.8%) developed hypertension during a median follow-up of 6.6 years. The incidence rate of hypertension was 46.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 46.0-47.3) per 1000 person-years. Incidence rates increased with higher cumulative glucocorticoid prednisolone-equivalent dose, from 44.4 per 1000 person-years in periods of nonuse to 45.3 per 1000 person-years for periods with between > 0.0 and 959.9 mg (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.09-1.19), to 49.3 per 1000 person-years for periods with 960-3054.9 mg (HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.14-1.27), and to 55.6 per 1000 person-years for periods with ≥ 3055 mg (HR 1.30, 95% CI 1.25-1.35). Cumulative effects were seen for the 6 diseases studied, but dose-response effects were not found for daily dose. INTERPRETATION Cumulative dose of oral glucocorticoids was associated with increased incidence of hypertension, suggesting that blood pressure should be monitored closely in patients routinely treated with these drugs. Given that glucocorticoids are widely prescribed, the associated health burden could be high. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials. gov, no. NCT03760562.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teumzghi F Mebrahtu
- Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (Mebrahtu); Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (Morgan), School of Medicine, University of Leeds; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (Morgan, Stewart), Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Chapel Allerton Hospital; Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, (West, Pujades-Rodriguez), School of Medicine; Dean's office, Faculty of Medicine & Health (Stewart), University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Ann W Morgan
- Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (Mebrahtu); Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (Morgan), School of Medicine, University of Leeds; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (Morgan, Stewart), Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Chapel Allerton Hospital; Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, (West, Pujades-Rodriguez), School of Medicine; Dean's office, Faculty of Medicine & Health (Stewart), University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Robert M West
- Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (Mebrahtu); Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (Morgan), School of Medicine, University of Leeds; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (Morgan, Stewart), Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Chapel Allerton Hospital; Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, (West, Pujades-Rodriguez), School of Medicine; Dean's office, Faculty of Medicine & Health (Stewart), University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Paul M Stewart
- Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (Mebrahtu); Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (Morgan), School of Medicine, University of Leeds; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (Morgan, Stewart), Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Chapel Allerton Hospital; Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, (West, Pujades-Rodriguez), School of Medicine; Dean's office, Faculty of Medicine & Health (Stewart), University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Mar Pujades-Rodriguez
- Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (Mebrahtu); Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (Morgan), School of Medicine, University of Leeds; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (Morgan, Stewart), Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Chapel Allerton Hospital; Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, (West, Pujades-Rodriguez), School of Medicine; Dean's office, Faculty of Medicine & Health (Stewart), University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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552
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Castillo-Martínez D, Amezcua-Castillo LM, Granados J, Pineda C, Amezcua-Guerra LM. Is Takayasu arteritis the result of a Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection? The use of TNF inhibitors may be the proof-of-concept to demonstrate that this association is epiphenomenal. Clin Rheumatol 2020; 39:2003-2009. [PMID: 32198554 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05045-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although the association between Takayasu arteritis (TA) and latent or active Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection has been suggested for a long time, studies conducted in recent years are challenging this notion. Until recently, the possibility of a pathogenic relationship between TA and tuberculosis (TB) was considered a medical curiosity, but the advent of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors as therapy for recalcitrant TA cases, as well as the widespread use of Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) for vaccination purposes, has relocated this association as a top priority issue. In an attempt to define whether both diseases are pathogenically linked or if their association is only epiphenomenal in nature, we conduct a thorough literature search on the development of TB in patients with TA receiving TNF inhibitors. From a total of 13 studies that included 214 patients, the occurrence of TB was observed only in two individuals exposed to infliximab. This frequency of 0.93% is similar to that encountered in patients with other rheumatic diseases exposed to TNF inhibitors. Finally, we propose a novel pathogenic model that could reconcile the epidemiological, clinical, and immunological evidence that links TA and TB, while providing rationality for the use of TNF inhibitors in patients with TA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Castillo-Martínez
- Dermatology Clinic, Hospital General de Zona 32, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Julio Granados
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Rheumatic Diseases, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Pineda
- Department of Transplantation, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luis M Amezcua-Guerra
- Department of Immunology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Juan Badiano 1, Sección XVI, 14080 Tlalpan, Mexico City, Mexico. .,Department of Health Care, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Xochimilco, Mexico City, Mexico.
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553
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Haanen J, Ernstoff MS, Wang Y, Menzies AM, Puzanov I, Grivas P, Larkin J, Peters S, Thompson JA, Obeid M. Autoimmune diseases and immune-checkpoint inhibitors for cancer therapy: review of the literature and personalized risk-based prevention strategy. Ann Oncol 2020; 31:724-744. [PMID: 32194150 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2020.03.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cancer and with preexisting active autoimmune diseases (ADs) have been excluded from immunotherapy clinical trials because of concerns for high susceptibility to the development of severe adverse events resulting from exacerbation of their preexisting ADs. However, a growing body of evidence indicates that immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) may be safe and effective in this patient population. However, baseline corticosteroids and other nonselective immunosuppressants appear to negatively impact drug efficacy, whereas retrospective and case report data suggest that use of specific immunosuppressants may not have the same consequences. Therefore, we propose here a two-step strategy. First, to lower the risk of compromising ICI efficacy before their initiation, nonselective immunosuppressants could be replaced by specific selective immunosuppressant drugs following a short rotation phase. Subsequently, combining ICI with the selective immunosuppressant could prevent exacerbation of the AD. For the most common active ADs encountered in the context of cancer, we propose specific algorithms to optimize ICI therapy. These preventive strategies go beyond current practices and recommendations, and should be practiced in ICI-specialized clinics, as these require multidisciplinary teams with extensive knowledge in the field of clinical immunology and oncology. In addition, we challenge the exclusion from ICI therapy for patients with cancer and active ADs and propose the implementation of an international registry to study such novel strategies in a prospective fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Haanen
- Netherlands Cancer Institute, Division of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M S Ernstoff
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, USA
| | - Y Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - A M Menzies
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals, Sydney, Australia
| | - I Puzanov
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, USA
| | - P Grivas
- University of Washington, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA
| | - J Larkin
- Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S Peters
- Oncology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - J A Thompson
- University of Washington, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA; National Cancer Institute/NIH, Bethesda, USA
| | - M Obeid
- Department of Medicine, Service of Immunology and Allergy, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland; Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Centre d'Immunothérapie et de Vaccinologie, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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554
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Mollan SP, Paemeleire K, Versijpt J, Luqmani R, Sinclair AJ. European Headache Federation recommendations for neurologists managing giant cell arteritis. J Headache Pain 2020; 21:28. [PMID: 32183689 PMCID: PMC7079499 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-020-01093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Giant cell arteritis (GCA) remains a medical emergency because of the risk of sudden irreversible sight loss and rarely stroke along with other complications. Because headache is one of the cardinal symptoms of cranial GCA, neurologists need to be up to date with the advances in investigation and management of this condition. The aim of this document by the European Headache Federation (EHF) is to provide an evidence-based and expert-based recommendations on GCA. METHODS The working group identified relevant questions, performed systematic literature review and assessed the quality of available evidence, and wrote recommendations. Where there was not a high level of evidence, the multidisciplinary (neurology, ophthalmology and rheumatology) group recommended best practice based on their clinical experience. RESULTS Across Europe, fast track pathways and the utility of advanced imaging techniques are helping to reduce diagnostic delay and uncertainty, with improved clinical outcomes for patients. GCA is treated with high dose glucocorticoids (GC) as a first line agent however long-term GC toxicity is one of the key concerns for clinicians and patients. The first phase 2 and phase 3 randomised controlled trials of Tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor antagonist, have been published. It is now been approved as the first ever licensed drug to be used in GCA. CONCLUSION The present article will outline recent advances made in the diagnosis and management of GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. P. Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - K. Paemeleire
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J. Versijpt
- Department of Neurology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - R. Luqmani
- The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FY UK
| | - A. J. Sinclair
- Metabolic Neurology, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
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555
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Sammel AM, Hsiao E, Schembri G, Bailey E, Nguyen K, Brewer J, Schrieber L, Janssen B, Youssef P, Fraser CL, Laurent R. Cranial and large vessel activity on positron emission tomography scan at diagnosis and 6 months in giant cell arteritis. Int J Rheum Dis 2020; 23:582-588. [PMID: 32100451 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
AIM Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) can detect cranial and large vessel inflammation in giant cell arteritis (GCA). We aimed to determine the change and significance of vascular activity at diagnosis and 6 months. METHOD Newly diagnosed GCA patients underwent time-of-flight fluorine-18-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose PET/CT from vertex to diaphragm within 72 hours of commencing corticosteroids and were followed for 12 months. A 6 months scan was performed in patients with inflammatory features on biopsy or CT aortitis. Vascular uptake was visually graded by 2 blinded readers across 18 artery segments from 0 (no increased uptake) to 3 (very marked uptake). Scores were summed to give a total vascular score (TVS). RESULTS We enrolled 21 GCA patients and 15 underwent the serial scan. Twelve (57%) patients experienced a relapse and 5 of these had ischemic features of vision disturbance, jaw or limb claudication. The median TVS fell from 14 (interquartile range [IQR] 4-24) at baseline to 5 (IQR 0-10) at 6 months (P < .01) with reduction in both cranial and large artery scores. While the overall relapse rate was similar between patients with a high (≥10) and low baseline TVS, patients with high scores were numerically more likely to experience an ischemic relapse (33% vs 11%, P = .34). Five out of 15 patients had persistent uptake in at least 1 vessel on the serial PET/CT but none experienced a subsequent relapse. CONCLUSION Vascular activity decreased in cranial and large arteries between diagnosis and 6 months. Persistent activity did not predict subsequent relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M Sammel
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Northern and Central Clinical Schools, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Rheumatology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Edward Hsiao
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoffrey Schembri
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Northern and Central Clinical Schools, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Bailey
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Nguyen
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janice Brewer
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Leslie Schrieber
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Northern and Central Clinical Schools, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Beatrice Janssen
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Youssef
- Northern and Central Clinical Schools, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Institute of Rheumatology and Orthopaedics, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Clare L Fraser
- Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rodger Laurent
- Departments of Rheumatology, Nuclear Medicine and Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Northern and Central Clinical Schools, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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556
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Abstract
Patients with untreated active giant cell arteritis (GCA) are at high risk of permanent vision loss. Therefore, treatment with glucocorticoids should be immediately initiated at an initial dose of 40-60 mg prednisolone equivalent dose per day. Once remission is achieved, the prednisolone dose should be reduced to 15-20 mg within 2-3 months and then to ≤5 mg per day within 1 year. Glucocorticoid-sparing treatment with tocilizumab or alternatively methotrexate should be initiated in patients with an increased risk or pre-existing complications of glucocorticoid treatment and patients with relapse. In polymyalgia rheumatica, prednisolone dosages of 15-25 mg/day are sufficient. After achieving remission, the dose should then be reduced to 10 mg within 4-8 weeks and then to 1 mg per month thereafter. Glucocorticoid-sparing treatment with methotrexate should be initiated in patients with an increased risk or existing complications of glucocorticoid treatment, relapse or increased glucocorticoid requirements.
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557
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Views on glucocorticoid therapy in rheumatology: the age of convergence. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:239-246. [PMID: 32076129 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0370-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
After decades of sometimes fierce debate about the advantages and disadvantages of glucocorticoids, an age of convergence has been reached. Current recommendations for the management of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), polymyalgia rheumatica and large vessel vasculitis reflect the current consensus that as much glucocorticoid as necessary, but as little as possible, should be used. Over the past few years, a range of glucocorticoid-sparing strategies have been developed, as have tools to improve the management of this therapy. A comprehensive view of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis has also emerged that recognizes that bone fragility is not solely determined by the dose and duration of glucocorticoid treatment. Nevertheless, open questions remain around whether long-term use of very low doses of glucocorticoids is a realistic option for patients with RA and whether the search for innovative glucocorticoids or glucocorticoid receptor ligands with improved benefit-to-risk ratios will ultimately be successful.
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558
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Sartorelli S, Tomelleri A, Palmisano A, Vignale D, Esposito A, Dagna L, Campochiaro C. Clinically isolated aortitis successfully treated with methotrexate monotherapy. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:e54-e56. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Sartorelli
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
| | - Alessandro Tomelleri
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
| | - Anna Palmisano
- Clinical and Experimental Radiology Unit, Experimental Imaging Center, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Vignale
- Clinical and Experimental Radiology Unit, Experimental Imaging Center, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Esposito
- Clinical and Experimental Radiology Unit, Experimental Imaging Center, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
| | - Corrado Campochiaro
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
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559
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Osório RM, Pina S, Salero T, Coelho MV, Sousa D, Mendonça C. Association of Multiple Myeloma and Giant Cell Arteritis - A Case Report. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med 2020; 7:001360. [PMID: 32015971 PMCID: PMC6993903 DOI: 10.12890/2020_001360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases (AID) have been associated with a variety of lymphoproliferative disorders. Multiple myeloma (MM), one of the most common haematologic malignancies characterized by clonal proliferation of bone marrow plasma cells, has been associated with a range of autoimmune disorders. In this report, we described a case study of a patient admitted to our Internal Medicine Department for a bone marrow biopsy and myelogram due to a monoclonal peak observed by his general practitioner. However, at admission he presented typical giant cell arteritis (GCA) complaints, suggesting the coexistence of both diseases. The possible pathogenesis, as found in the literature, explaining the association will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Marques Osório
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Pina
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Teresa Salero
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Viana Coelho
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Domingos Sousa
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Catarina Mendonça
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
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560
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Asano T, Sato S, Temmoku J, Fujita Y, Furuya MY, Matsuoka N, Kobayashi H, Suzuki E, Watanabe H, Migita K. Effectiveness of Tocilizumab in juvenile patients with refractory Takayasu arteritis: Two case reports. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e18890. [PMID: 31977898 PMCID: PMC7004659 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000018890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a systemic large-vessel vasculitis which can be accompanied by the symptoms associated with vascular stenosis. PATIENT CONCERNS We describe 2 female juveniles with TA who presented with progressive intermittent claudication. DIAGNOSIS Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed the stenosis of femoral arteries and increased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), and serum amyloid A (SAA) were noted in both patients. According to European league against rheumatism consensus criteria for the diagnosis of TA was confirmed in both patients. INTERVENTIONS Both patients had shown resistance to glucocorticoids and treated with tocilizumab (TCZ) (subcutaneous injections, 162 mg/week). OUTCOMES These treatments improved claudication symptoms. Follow-up imaging by enhanced CT revealed restoration of advanced stenosis of the femoral arteries in both patients. They achieved normalization of levels of the acute-phase reactants CRP and SAA. Serum levels of interleukin-6 were increased transiently after TCZ injection, but declined to within normal ranges at 12 weeks. LESSONS Juvenile patients with TA presenting with advanced stenosis of the femoral arteries are not rare. The clinical courses of our patients suggested the beneficial effects of TCZ against the progressive vascular stenosis observed in refractory TA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Asano
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Shuzo Sato
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Jumpei Temmoku
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Yuya Fujita
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Makiko Yashiro Furuya
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Naoki Matsuoka
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Hiroko Kobayashi
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Eiji Suzuki
- Department of Rheumatology, Ohta Nishinouchi General Hospital, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Watanabe
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
| | - Kiyoshi Migita
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima
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561
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Becker M. [Polymyalgia rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis - Update on Diagnosis and Therapy]. PRAXIS 2020; 109:347-354. [PMID: 32233763 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis - Update on Diagnosis and Therapy Abstract. Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory syndrome which often co-incides with giant cell arteritis (GCA). Due to unspecific symptoms and a plethora of possible alternative diagnoses, PMR often represents a diagnostic challenge. The use of ultrasound, but also other imaging methods has improved and accelerated the time to diagnosis in PMR and GCA, so that complications such as blindness can be reduced. Glucocorticoids are still the main initial therapy for both diseases. Although further research is needed concerning prevention of and screening for long term complications for GCA, the efficacy of biologicals, namely tocilizumab, has markedly increased therapeutic options for GCA and allows for a reduction of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Becker
- Klinik für Rheumatologie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich
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562
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563
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Increased diagnostic accuracy of giant cell arteritis using three-dimensional fat-saturated contrast-enhanced vessel-wall magnetic resonance imaging at 3 T. Eur Radiol 2019; 30:1866-1875. [PMID: 31811430 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-019-06536-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the diagnostic accuracy of 3D versus 2D contrast-enhanced vessel-wall (CE-VW) MRI of extracranial and intracranial arteries in the diagnosis of GCA. METHODS This prospective two-center study was approved by a national research ethics board and enrolled participants from December 2014 to October 2017. A protocol including both a 2D and a 3D CE-VW MRI at 3 T was performed in all patients. Two neuroradiologists, blinded to clinical data, individually analyzed separately and in random order 2D and 3D sequences in the axial plane only or with reformatting. The primary judgment criterion was the presence of GCA-related inflammatory changes of extracranial arteries. Secondary judgment criteria included inflammatory changes of intracranial arteries and the presence of artifacts. A McNemar's test was used to compare 2D to 3D CE-VW MRIs. RESULTS Seventy-nine participants were included in the study (42 men and 37 women, mean age 75 (± 9.5 years)). Fifty-one had a final diagnosis of GCA. Reformatted 3D CE-VW was significantly more sensitive than axial-only 3D CE-VW or 2D CE-VW when showing inflammatory change of extracranial arteries: 41/51(80%) versus 37/51 (73%) (p = 0.046) and 35/50 (70%) (p = 0.03). Reformatted 3D CE-VW was significantly more specific than 2D CE-VW: 27/27 (100%) versus 22/26 (85%) (p = 0.04). 3D CE-VW showed higher sensitivity than 2D CE-VW when detecting inflammatory changes of intracranial arteries: 10/51(20%) versus 4/50(8%), p = 0.01. Interobserver agreement was excellent for both 2D and 3D CE-VW MRI: κ = 0.84 and 0.82 respectively. CONCLUSIONS 3D CE-VW MRI supported more accurate diagnoses of GCA than 2D CE-VW. KEY POINTS • 3D contrast-enhanced vessel-wall magnetic resonance imaging is a high accuracy, non-invasive diagnostic tool used to diagnose giant cell arteritis. • 3D contrast-enhanced vessel-wall imaging is feasible for clinicians to complete within a relatively short time, allowing immediate assessment of extra and intracranial arteries. • 3D contrast-enhanced vessel-wall magnetic resonance imaging might be considered a diagnostic tool when intracranial manifestation of GCA is suspected.
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564
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Clément J, Duffau P, Constans J, Schaeverbeke T, Viallard J, Barcat D, Vernhes J, Paricaud K, Sailler L, Bonnet F. Peut-on arrêter le tocilizumab au cours de l’artérite à cellules géantes ? Données issues d’une cohorte rétrospective multicentrique de 43 patients. Rev Med Interne 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2019.10.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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565
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Mollan SP, Quick V, Sinclair AJ, Luqmani R. Response to 'Comment on: 'A new era for giant cell arteritis''. Eye (Lond) 2019; 34:1929-1930. [PMID: 31767962 PMCID: PMC7608276 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-019-0703-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S P Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.
| | - V Quick
- Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Lewsey Road, Luton, LU4 0DZ, UK
| | - A J Sinclair
- Metabolic Neurology, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - R Luqmani
- The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FY, UK
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566
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McDonald L, Baker G, Kerr O. Scalp ulceration: a rare manifestation of giant cell arteritis. BMJ Case Rep 2019; 12:12/11/e230795. [PMID: 31678922 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-230795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
An 81-year-old woman presented with an enlarging, tender ulcer on her scalp over an 8-week period, attributing it to a prior graze with garden shears. C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were elevated at 87.7 mg/L and 112 mm/hour, respectively. Incisional biopsies demonstrated ulceration and full thickness necrosis with no evidence of malignancy. Vasculitis was suggested as a likely cause of such extensive necrosis and subsequent temporal artery biopsy findings were consistent with giant cell arteritis. The patient was initially treated with high-dose oral prednisolone and achieved complete healing of the scalp necrosis within 12 months, with a gradual down-titration of steroid therapy thereafter. Scalp necrosis is a rare, potentially life-threatening complication of giant cell arteritis. This case highlights the importance of considering scalp necrosis as a manifestation of giant cell arteritis when assessing scalp ulceration. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent significant morbidity and potential mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise McDonald
- Department of Dermatology, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
| | - Gavin Baker
- Department of Histopathology, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
| | - Olga Kerr
- Department of Dermatology, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
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567
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Validating a diagnostic GCA ultrasonography service against temporal artery biopsy and long-term clinical outcomes. Clin Rheumatol 2019; 39:1325-1329. [PMID: 31576487 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-019-04772-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there is no mechanism for service validation of diagnostic ultrasonography (US) for giant cell arteritis (GCA). Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) and classification criteria are poor benchmarks. We validated our service against physician-verified diagnosis at 100 weeks (100wD). Twenty-five patients underwent US within 7 days, and TAB within 28 days, of commencing prednisolone. US, TAB and baseline diagnosis (bD) were all compared with 100wD using Cohen's kappa. Fourteen US and 8 TABs were positive. Twenty at baseline and 14 at 100 weeks had diagnosis of GCA. The kappa (95% CI) were 0.4 (0.1, 0.7) for US vs. TAB; 0.5 (0.2, 0.8) for US vs. bD and 0.2 (0.0, 0.4) for TAB vs. bD. Versus 100wD, the kappa (95% CI) were 0.8 (0.6, 1.0) for US; 0.4 (0.1, 0.7) for TAB and 0.6 (0.3, 0.9) for bD. Seven cases were US+/TAB-. Four had alternate confirmation: 18FDG-PET (n = 1), CT Aorta (n = 1) and US at relapse (n = 2). At 100 weeks, 4 cases (all US-/TAB-) with bD of GCA had alternative diagnoses including cancer (n = 2). This is the first study validating US service provision for GCA. Twenty-five US with a robust kappa on comparison with long-term diagnosis validates our service. A diagnosis of GCA should be made with extreme caution for US-/TAB- cases.Key Points• This is the first study offering a way to validate a new diagnostic US service by validation against TAB and long-term physician-verified diagnosis.• US has substantial to near-perfect agreement with long-term physician-verified diagnosis and is more reliable than TAB in our hands.• Alternative diagnoses should be sought in patients with dual negativity for US and TAB.
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568
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Zhang Y, Wang D, Yin Y, Fan H, Zhang W, Zeng X. Clinical comparisons of patients with giant cell arteritis with versus without fever at onset. J Int Med Res 2019; 47:5613-5622. [PMID: 31547723 PMCID: PMC6862894 DOI: 10.1177/0300060519875379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common systemic vasculitis in individuals aged ≥50 years. Some patients with GCA who develop fever at onset without typical ischemic manifestations may be misdiagnosed with fever of unknown origin. Methods In the present study, we retrospectively evaluated the clinical records of patients with GCA. Patients with and without fever at onset were compared. Results This study included 91 patients with GCA, 55 of whom had fever at onset. The patients with fever at onset showed a lower frequency of jaw claudication and arthralgia and a higher percentage of constitutional symptoms than patients without fever. Additionally, their laboratory results revealed a lower percentage of positive anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. Furthermore, a lower proportion of affected intracranial vessels was found in patients with fever at onset. Finally, the proportion of biopsy-positive cases was higher in patients with than without fever at onset. Conclusions In this study, 60.4% of patients with GCA had fever at onset. Patients in this group usually had more severe inflammation with a potentially lower risk of ischemic accidents of the central nervous system than patients without fever at onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- Department of Neurology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Yin
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Fan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Xuejun Zeng
- Department of General Internal Medicine of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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569
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Monti S, Águeda AF, Luqmani RA, Buttgereit F, Cid M, Dejaco C, Mahr A, Ponte C, Salvarani C, Schmidt W, Hellmich B. Systematic literature review informing the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendation for the management of large vessel vasculitis: focus on giant cell arteritis. RMD Open 2019; 5:e001003. [PMID: 31673411 PMCID: PMC6803016 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2019-001003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To analyse the current evidence for the management of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) to inform the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendations. Methods Two systematic literature reviews (SLRs) dealing with diagnosis/monitoring and treatment strategies for LVV, respectively, were performed. Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to 31 December 2017. Evidence on imaging was excluded as recently published in dedicated EULAR recommendations. This paper focuses on the data relevant to giant cell arteritis (GCA). Results We identified 287 eligible articles (122 studies focused on diagnosis/monitoring, 165 on treatment). The implementation of a fast-track approach to diagnosis significantly lowers the risk of permanent visual loss compared with historical cohorts (level of evidence, LoE 2b). Reliable diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for GCA are still not available (LoE 3b).The SLR confirms the efficacy of prompt initiation of glucocorticoids (GC). There is no high-quality evidence on the most appropriate starting dose, route of administration, tapering and duration of GC (LoE 4). Patients with GCA are at increased risk of dose-dependent GC-related adverse events (LoE 3b). The addition of methotrexate or tocilizumab reduces relapse rates and GC requirements (LoE 1b). There is no consistent evidence that initiating antiplatelet agents at diagnosis would prevent future ischaemic events (LoE 2a). There is little evidence to guide monitoring of patients with GCA. Conclusions Results from two SLRs identified novel evidence on the management of GCA to guide the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendations on the management of LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Monti
- Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,PhD in Experimental Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ana F Águeda
- Rheumatology, Baixo Vouga Hospital Centre Agueda Unit, Agueda, Portugal
| | - Raashid Ahmed Luqmani
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charite University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Cid
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Hospital Clinic; Institute d'Investiacions Biomèdiques August pi I Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Rheumatology; South Tyrol Health Trust, Gesundheitsbezirk Bruneck, Brunico, Italy.,Rheumatology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Alfred Mahr
- Internal Medicine, Université Paris Diderot Institut Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Rheumatology, Hospital de Santa Marta, Lisboa, Portugal.,Rheumatology Research Unit, University of Lisbon Institute of Molecular Medicine, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Rheumatology, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Schmidt
- Klinik für Innere Medizin, Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie Berlin-Buch, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin Standort Berlin-Wannsee, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hellmich
- Klinik für Innere Medizin, Rheumatologie und Immunologie, Vaskulitis-Zentrum Süd, Medius Kliniken, Universitatsklinikum Tubingen, Tubingen, Germany
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570
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Abstract
Large-vessel vasculitis includes giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TA). GCA can affect persons from the age of 50 years and is more frequent among women. The disease course generally begins with an acute phase, with patients feeling very unwell and experiencing temporal headaches. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are necessary to reduce the risk of blindness. A suspected diagnosis must be confirmed by imaging, histology is optional. Initial treatment comprises oral prednisone. Recent studies have demonstrated inhibition of interleukin‑6 with tocilizumab (TCZ) to be highly effective. Alternatively, methotrexate can be administered in a steroid-sparing approach. In contrast, TA onset is generally during childhood or adolescence, and begins with moderate systemic inflammation. The aorta and its main branches are affected. Treatment comprises steroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, and the tumor necrosis factor inhibitor infliximab or TCZ.
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571
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Neß T, Schmidt W. [Eye involvement in large vesssel vasculitis (giant cell arteritis and Takayasu's arteritis)]. Ophthalmologe 2019; 116:899-914. [PMID: 31463637 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-019-00959-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu's arteritis are both forms of large vessel vasculitis and can be manifested in the eye. While GCA affects patients over the age of 50 years, patients with Takayasu's arteritis are between 15 and 30 years old. The diagnosis is based on a combination of anamnesis, imaging and systemic inflammatory reactions. The diagnosis can be confirmed by biopsy. Typical eye involvement of GCA are anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) and central retinal artery occlusion, while Takayasu's arteritis involves hypertensive retinopathy and Takayasu's retinopathy (capillary dilatation, microaneurysms and arteriovenous anastomoses). The treatment consists of steroids in combination with classical immunosuppressants or biologics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Neß
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland.
| | - Wolfgang Schmidt
- Rheumatologie, Klinische Immunologie und Osteologie, Standort Berlin-Buch, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
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572
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Strehl C, Ehlers L, Gaber T, Buttgereit F. Glucocorticoids-All-Rounders Tackling the Versatile Players of the Immune System. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1744. [PMID: 31396235 PMCID: PMC6667663 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids regulate fundamental processes of the human body and control cellular functions such as cell metabolism, growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. Moreover, endogenous glucocorticoids link the endocrine and immune system and ensure the correct function of inflammatory events during tissue repair, regeneration, and pathogen elimination via genomic and rapid non-genomic pathways. Due to their strong immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects on immune cells, tissues and organs, glucocorticoids significantly improve the quality of life of many patients suffering from diseases caused by a dysregulated immune system. Despite the multitude and seriousness of glucocorticoid-related adverse events including diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and infections, these agents remain indispensable, representing the most powerful, and cost-effective drugs in the treatment of a wide range of rheumatic diseases. These include rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, and connective tissue diseases, as well as many other pathological conditions of the immune system. Depending on the therapeutically affected cell type, glucocorticoid actions strongly vary among different diseases. While immune responses always represent complex reactions involving different cells and cellular processes, specific immune cell populations with key responsibilities driving the pathological mechanisms can be identified for certain autoimmune diseases. In this review, we will focus on the mechanisms of action of glucocorticoids on various leukocyte populations, exemplarily portraying different autoimmune diseases as heterogeneous targets of glucocorticoid actions: (i) Abnormalities in the innate immune response play a crucial role in the initiation and perpetuation of giant cell arteritis (GCA). (ii) Specific types of CD4+ T helper (Th) lymphocytes, namely Th1 and Th17 cells, represent important players in the establishment and course of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), whereas (iii) B cells have emerged as central players in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). (iv) Allergic reactions are mainly triggered by several different cytokines released by activated Th2 lymphocytes. Using these examples, we aim to illustrate the versatile modulating effects of glucocorticoids on the immune system. In contrast, in the treatment of lymphoproliferative disorders the pro-apoptotic action of glucocorticoids prevails, but their mechanisms differ depending on the type of cancer. Therefore, we will also give a brief insight into the current knowledge of the mode of glucocorticoid action in oncological treatment focusing on leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Strehl
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Centre (DRFZ) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Ehlers
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Centre (DRFZ) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Timo Gaber
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Centre (DRFZ) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Centre (DRFZ) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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