151
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Illán Ramos M, Sagastizabal Cardelús B, García Ron A, Guillén Martín S, Berzosa Sánchez A, Ramos Amador JT. Chorea as the presenting feature of acute rheumatic fever in childhood; case reports from a low-prevalence European setting. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:322. [PMID: 33827439 PMCID: PMC8025313 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06005-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a notable decrease in acute rheumatic fever (ARF) incidence in the past few decades, there are still cases in our setting. Sydenham chorea (SC) may be the initial manifestation for this condition in childhood in a significant proportion of children. We report two cases of choreoathetosis in children as the first manifestation of ARF. CASE PRESENTATION A previously healthy 8-year-old boy presented with right hemichorea with a predominance in the brachial region, orofacial dyskinesias and speech difficulties for the past 2 weeks. The only medical history of interest was a common catarrhal illness 3 weeks before and nonspecific bilateral tenosynovitis in both feet since a year prior. A brain computerized tomography was normal and the echocardiogram showed mild mitral and aortic regurgitation, meeting ARF criteria. He demonstrated clinical improvement with treatment based on prednisone and carbamazepine. The second patient was a 10-year-old girl with choreic movements of the right half of the body and repetitive right eye closure of 1 week duration. She had symptoms of fever and rash the previous week and pharyngitis that resolved without antibiotic 2 months before. Blood tests revealed elevated C reactive protein (12 mg/dl) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (96 mm/h). Brain magnetic resonance was normal and echocardiogram showed left ventricle dilation and mild mitral regurgitation, leading to the diagnosis of ARF. Due to neurological involvement, she received corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment, with worsening of neurological symptoms that required valproic acid with remission of the hemichorea. In addition skin lessions compatible with erythema marginatum appeared on the upper limbs. CONCLUSIONS SC should be the main diagnostic consideration in cases of hemichorea with normal neuroimaging in children. The cases reported highlight the need to maintain a high index of suspicion even in settings where incidende of ARF is low and the need to perform cardiological investigations in all patients with suspected SC, due to the possibility of subclinical valve lesions. Good adherence to secondary prophylaxis is crucial to avoid chorea relapses and worsening valve disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Illán Ramos
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Adrián García Ron
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Guillén Martín
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Getafe, Madrid, Spain
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152
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumar Narayanan
- Global Health Unit, University of Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Cardiology, Medicover Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Xavier Jouven
- Global Health Unit, University of Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Cardiology, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Eloi Marijon
- Global Health Unit, University of Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Cardiology, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris, France
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153
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Castro SA, Dorfmueller HC. A brief review on Group A Streptococcus pathogenesis and vaccine development. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:201991. [PMID: 33959354 PMCID: PMC8074923 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.201991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS), is a Gram-positive human-exclusive pathogen, responsible for more than 500 000 deaths annually worldwide. Upon infection, GAS commonly triggers mild symptoms such as pharyngitis, pyoderma and fever. However, recurrent infections or prolonged exposure to GAS might lead to life-threatening conditions. Necrotizing fasciitis, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome and post-immune mediated diseases, such as poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease, contribute to very high mortality rates in non-industrialized countries. Though an initial reduction in GAS infections was observed in high-income countries, global outbreaks of GAS, causing rheumatic fever and acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, have been reported over the last decade. At the same time, our understanding of GAS pathogenesis and transmission has vastly increased, with detailed insight into the various stages of infection, beginning with adhesion, colonization and evasion of the host immune system. Despite deeper knowledge of the impact of GAS on the human body, the development of a successful vaccine for prophylaxis of GAS remains outstanding. In this review, we discuss the challenges involved in identifying a universal GAS vaccine and describe several potential vaccine candidates that we believe warrant pursuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Ajay Castro
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee, DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Helge C. Dorfmueller
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee, DD1 5EH, UK
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154
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Bimerew M, Beletew B, Getie A, Wondmieneh A, Gedefaw G, Demis A. Prevalence of rheumatic heart disease among school children in East Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pan Afr Med J 2021; 38:242. [PMID: 34104290 PMCID: PMC8164427 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2021.38.242.26058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction conducting researches and estimating the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in school children is crucial to develop school-based strategies targeted to decrease the prevalence of this disease. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis were aimed to estimate the overall prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) among school children in East Africa. Methods PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Cochrane review, African Journals Online and African Index Medicus databases were searched to identify relevant research articles. The overall prevalence of rheumatic heart disease was pooled based on the weighted inverse variance random-effects model at a 95% confidence interval. The presence of heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis and presence of publication bias was tested. Results were presented with narrative synthesis, tables and forest plots. Results a total of thirteen research articles were included in the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in East African school children was 1.79% (17.9 cases per 1000 children (95% CI=11.6, 24.2; I2=95.1%; p<0.001)). From the subgroup analysis conducted by publication year, a lower prevalence of RHD in school children was reported among studies published after 2015 (six studies; overall prevalence=1.17% (11.7 cases per 1000 school children); with 95% CI=0.60, 1.73%; I2=88.8%; p<0.001). Additionally, the horn of Africa was found to have the lowest prevalence of RHD in school children among East African countries (six studies; overall prevalence=1.59% (15.9 cases per 1000 school children); with 95% CI=0.68, 2.51%; I2=94.2%; p<0.001). Conclusion the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) among school children in East Africa was considerably higher than the results from high-income countries. Therefore, community education on strep throat and its complications should be implemented through mass media. Rheumatic heart disease preventive strategies should be integrated with schools to reduce the prevalence of RHD among school children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melaku Bimerew
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Biruk Beletew
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Addisu Getie
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Adam Wondmieneh
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Gedefaw
- Department of Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Asmamaw Demis
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
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155
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Biswas D, Ambalavanan P, Ravins M, Anand A, Sharma A, Lim KXZ, Tan RYM, Lim HY, Sol A, Bachrach G, Angeli V, Hanski E. LL-37-mediated activation of host receptors is critical for defense against group A streptococcal infection. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108766. [PMID: 33657368 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes diverse human diseases, including life-threatening soft-tissue infections. It is accepted that the human antimicrobial peptide LL-37 protects the host by killing GAS. Here, we show that GAS extracellular protease ScpC N-terminally cleaves LL-37 into two fragments of 8 and 29 amino acids, preserving its bactericidal activity. At sub-bactericidal concentrations, the cleavage inhibits LL-37-mediated neutrophil chemotaxis, shortens neutrophil lifespan, and eliminates P2X7 and EGF receptors' activation. Mutations at the LL-37 cleavage site protect the peptide from ScpC-mediated splitting, maintaining all its functions. The mouse LL-37 ortholog CRAMP is neither cleaved by ScpC nor does it activate P2X7 or EGF receptors. Treating wild-type or CRAMP-null mice with sub-bactericidal concentrations of the non-cleavable LL-37 analogs promotes GAS clearance that is abolished by the administration of either P2X7 or EGF receptor antagonists. We demonstrate that LL-37-mediated activation of host receptors is critical for defense against GAS soft-tissue infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debabrata Biswas
- Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), MMID Phase II, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Poornima Ambalavanan
- Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), MMID Phase II, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Miriam Ravins
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aparna Anand
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Abhinay Sharma
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Kimberly Xuan Zhen Lim
- Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), MMID Phase II, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rachel Ying Min Tan
- Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), MMID Phase II, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hwee Ying Lim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, LSI Immunology Programme, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Asaf Sol
- The Institute of Dental Sciences, The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gilad Bachrach
- The Institute of Dental Sciences, The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Veronique Angeli
- Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), MMID Phase II, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, LSI Immunology Programme, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Emanuel Hanski
- Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), MMID Phase II, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.
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156
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Tyrrell GJ. Does group A strep have any skin in the ARF game? THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2021; 8:100114. [PMID: 34327432 PMCID: PMC8315609 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2021.100114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
•The observation that indigenous populations of New Zealand have high rates of GAS skin infections as well as high rates of ARF suggest the two diseases are linked.•It is therefore important to screen skin infections for GAS in all populations but especially in individuals of Māori and Pacific Islander heritage in New Zealand and treat those that are positive.•Failure to adequately treat GAS skin infections could potentially lead more serious skin infection manifestations and possibly invasive disease as well as ARF in vulnerable groups such as the Māroi and Pacific Islanders.•More work needs to be done to show GAS skin infections can lead to ARF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J. Tyrrell
- Division of Diagnostic and Applied Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Precision Laboratories, Public Health–Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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157
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Abstract
During the 1920s, acute rheumatic fever (ARF) was the leading cause of mortality in children in the United States. By the 1980s, many felt ARF had all but disappeared from the US. However, although ARF and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) rates remain low in the US today, disease burden is unequal and tracks along other disparities of cardiovascular health. It is estimated that 1% to 3% of patients with untreated group A streptococcus (GAS) infection, most typically GAS pharyngitis, will develop ARF, and of these, up to 60% of cases will result in chronic RHD. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of ARF/RHD to increase awareness of ARF/RHD for clinicians based in the US. [Pediatr Ann. 2021;50(3):e98-e104.].
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158
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Gomes NFA, Pascoal-Xavier MA, Passos LSA, Paula TMN, Aguiar JMDS, Guarçoni FV, Nassif MCL, Gelape CL, Braulio R, Costa PHN, Passaglia LG, Martins RB, Dutra WO, Nunes MCP. Histopathological Characterization of Mitral Valvular Lesions from Patients with Rheumatic Heart Disease. Arq Bras Cardiol 2021; 116:404-412. [PMID: 33909767 PMCID: PMC8159546 DOI: 10.36660/abc.20200154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The underlying mechanisms by which rheumatic heart disease (RHD) lead to severe valve dysfunction are not completely understood. OBJECTIVE The present study evaluated the histopathological changes in mitral valves (MV) seeking an association between the pattern of predominant valvular dysfunction and histopathological findings. METHODS In 40 patients who underwent MV replacement due to RHD, and in 20 controls that underwent heart transplant, histological aspects of the excised MV were analyzed. Clinical and echocardiographic data were also collected. Histological analyses were performed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Inflammation, fibrosis, neoangiogenesis, calcification and adipose metaplasia were determined. A p value<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS The mean age of RHD patients was 53±13 years, 36 (90%) were female, whereas the mean age of controls was 50±12 years, similar to the cases, with the majority of males (70%). The rheumatic valve endocardium presented greater thickness than the controls (1.3±0.5 mm versus 0.90±0.4 mm, p=0.003, respectively), and a more intense inflammatory infiltrate in the endocardium (78% versus 36%; p=0.004), with predominance of mononuclear cells. Moderate to marked fibrosis occurred more frequently in rheumatic valves than in control valves (100% vs. 29%; p<0.001). Calcification occurred in 35% of rheumatic valves, especially among stenotic valves, which was associated with the mitral valve area (p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Despite intense degree of fibrosis, the inflammatory process remains active in the rheumatic mitral valve, even at late disease with valve dysfunction. Calcification predominated in stenotic valves and in patients with right ventricular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana F. A. Gomes
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Marcelo A. Pascoal-Xavier
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Livia S. A. Passos
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Thiago Mendonça Nunes Paula
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - João Marcelo de Souza Aguiar
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Felipe Vieira Guarçoni
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Maria Cecília Landim Nassif
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Claudio Leo Gelape
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Renato Braulio
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Paulo Henrique N. Costa
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Luiz Guilherme Passaglia
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Raquel Braga Martins
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Walderez O. Dutra
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.
| | - Maria Carmo P. Nunes
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteMGBrasilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brasil.,Correspondência: Maria Carmo P. Nunes • Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Medicina - Professor Alfredo Balena, 190. CEP 30130-100, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte, MG – Brasil, E-mail:
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159
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Loh JMS, Rivera-Hernandez T, McGregor R, Khemlani AHJ, Tay ML, Cork AJ, M Raynes J, Moreland NJ, Walker MJ, Proft T. A multivalent T-antigen-based vaccine for Group A Streptococcus. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4353. [PMID: 33623073 PMCID: PMC7902606 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83673-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pili of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) are surface-exposed structures involved in adhesion and colonisation of the host during infection. The major protein component of the GAS pilus is the T-antigen, which multimerises to form the pilus shaft. There are currently no licenced vaccines against GAS infections and the T-antigen represents an attractive target for vaccination. We have generated a multivalent vaccine called TeeVax1, a recombinant protein that consists of a fusion of six T-antigen domains. Vaccination with TeeVax1 produces opsonophagocytic antibodies in rabbits and confers protective efficacy in mice against invasive disease. Two further recombinant proteins, TeeVax2 and TeeVax3 were constructed to cover 12 additional T-antigens. Combining TeeVax1–3 produced a robust antibody response in rabbits that was cross-reactive to a full panel of 21 T-antigens, expected to provide over 95% vaccine coverage. These results demonstrate the potential for a T-antigen-based vaccine to prevent GAS infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacelyn M S Loh
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand. .,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Tania Rivera-Hernandez
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre and School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.,Cátedras CONACYT-Unidad de Investigación Médica en Inmunoquímica, Hospital de Especialidades del Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Reuben McGregor
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Adrina Hema J Khemlani
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mei Lin Tay
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Amanda J Cork
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre and School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Jeremy M Raynes
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand.,Monash University, Clayton Campus, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark J Walker
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre and School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Thomas Proft
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand. .,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand.
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160
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Ozkaya M, Baykan A, Cakir M, Vural C, Sunkak S, Unal E, Eken A. The number and activity of CD3 +TCR Vα7.2 +CD161 + cells are increased in children with acute rheumatic fever. Int J Cardiol 2021; 333:174-183. [PMID: 33631279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an autoimmune disease caused by group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GAS) and may develop into rheumatic heart disease (RHD). The pathogenesis of ARF and RHD involves molecular mimicry and antibody-mediated mechanisms. T cell involvement is described in various stages of the disease. Mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are enriched at the mucosa and are present in the blood and may be activated by GAS. METHODS In this study, we investigated the quantity and activity of CD3+TCRVα7.2+CD161+ cells in the active and recovered ARF patients and healthy controls. Twenty newly diagnosed, 20 recovered-ARF children, and 20 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Peripheral blood (PB) mononuclear cells were isolated by Ficoll-Paque density gradient. CD4+, CD4- subsets of CD3+CD161+TCRVα7.2+ cells and IFN-γ and TNF-α production were quantified by Flow cytometry. RESULTS Acute and recovered ARF patients had significantly elevated the number of CD3+TCRVα7.2+CD161+ cells in their PB. Both CD4+ and CD4- subsets were increased. Moreover, total CD3+TCRVα7.2+CD161+ cell numbers were significantly higher in the recovered patients' PB compared with active ARF patients. In addition, CD3+TCRVα7.2+CD161+ cells in both acute and recovered patients produced significantly more IFN-γ and TNF-α. Non-MAIT total CD3+ T cell, CD4+ and CD4- T cell subsets were also increased in active and recovered ARF patients and they also produced more IFN-γ and TNF-α. CONCLUSION Our data reveal that CD3+TCRVα7.2+CD161+ cells are elevated and actively producing IFN-γ and TNF-α in acute and recovered ARF patients and may contribute to ARF pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Ozkaya
- Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ali Baykan
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Cakir
- Betül-Ziya Eren Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Medical Biology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Medical Biology, Van Yüzüncü Yıl University School of Medicine, Van, Turkey
| | - Cagdas Vural
- Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Sunkak
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ekrem Unal
- Betül-Ziya Eren Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Eken
- Betül-Ziya Eren Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Kayseri, Turkey; Department of Medical Biology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey.
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Update on Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis: Narrative Review of a Forgotten Disease. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2021; 23:19. [PMID: 33569668 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-021-00982-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW This topical review attempts to build the concepts of PSRA as an independent entity and discuss prevalent diagnostic criteria. It utilizes a search strategy to collate all clinical features of PSRA reported from across the world and also discusses laboratory and treatment options in brief. RECENT FINDINGS There are several immune-mediated diseases described after acute streptococcal infections. Post-streptococcal reactive arthritis (PSRA) is a sterile, self-limiting arthritis that occur as an immune sequelae to streptococcal infection. Though PSRA resembles the arthritis of acute rheumatic fever superficially, it is a separate entity in its own right. It is different from classical reactive arthritis too. It was being recognized worldwide and more frequently in the recent past, possibly due to heightened awareness amongst clinicians. However, research on this enigmatic immune phenomenon is limited. Most acceptable hypotheses suggest molecular mimicry sensitizing the immune system towards synovial peptides such as keratin, vimentin and laminin, leading to arthritis in a genetically predisposed individual. There is still much to be learnt from this unique disease about the vagaries of the immune system.
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162
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Thomas S, Bennett J, Jack S, Oliver J, Purdie G, Upton A, Baker MG. Descriptive analysis of group A Streptococcus in skin swabs and acute rheumatic fever, Auckland, New Zealand, 2010-2016. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC 2021; 8:100101. [PMID: 34327427 PMCID: PMC8315459 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2021.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can trigger an immune-mediated response resulting in acute rheumatic fever (ARF). Historically, ARF has been considered a consequence of preceding GAS pharyngitis, but increasing evidence suggests that GAS skin infections may be a driver. Data on the primary care burden of GAS skin infection are limited. This paper aims to describe and compare the prevalence and distribution of GAS detection in skin swabs and ARF rates in the Auckland population. Methods This cross-sectional study used all laboratory skin swab data from people who had a skin swab taken as a result of a consultation with a health professional in the Auckland region (2010–2016). Initial primary hospitalisations for ARF were identified and all data were linked using unique patient identifiers to patient's age, prioritised ethnicity, sex, and socio-economic status. Findings 377,410 skin swabs from 239,494 individuals were included. 12·8% of swabs were GAS positive, an annual incidence of 4·8 per 1,000 person-years. Māori and Pacific Peoples under 20 years of age had markedly higher GAS detection in skin swabs (RR 4·0; 95% CI 3·9–4·2: RR 6·8; 95% CI 6·6–7·0) and significantly higher ARF rates (RR 30·3; 95% CI 19·5–46·9: RR 69·7 95% CI 45·8–106·1) compared with European/Other ethnicities. Interpretation The observation that GAS detection was markedly higher in Māori and Pacific Peoples provides a potential explanation for the marked ethnic differences in ARF. These findings support a greater focus on addressing the burden of skin infection in NZ, including as ARF prevention. Funding The first author received a training stipend from the New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine (NZCPHM) during her Masters of Public Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Thomas
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Julie Bennett
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Susan Jack
- Southern District Health Board, 201 Great Kind Street, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.,Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, 18 Frederick Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016 New Zealand
| | - Jane Oliver
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Gordon Purdie
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Arlo Upton
- Southern Community Laboratories, Plunket House, 472 George Street Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, 23a Mein Street, Newtown 6021, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
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163
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Arora S, Gordon J, Hook M. Collagen Binding Proteins of Gram-Positive Pathogens. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:628798. [PMID: 33613497 PMCID: PMC7893114 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.628798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Collagens are the primary structural components of mammalian extracellular matrices. In addition, collagens regulate tissue development, regeneration and host defense through interaction with specific cellular receptors. Their unique triple helix structure, which requires a glycine residue every third amino acid, is the defining structural feature of collagens. There are 28 genetically distinct collagens in humans. In addition, several other unrelated human proteins contain a collagen domain. Gram-positive bacteria of the genera Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus express cell surface proteins that bind to collagen. These proteins of Gram-positive pathogens are modular proteins that can be classified into different structural families. This review will focus on the different structural families of collagen binding proteins of Gram-positive pathogen. We will describe how these proteins interact with the triple helix in collagens and other host proteins containing a collagenous domain and discuss how these interactions can contribute to the pathogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srishtee Arora
- Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jay Gordon
- Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Magnus Hook
- Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
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164
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Njaa P, Bree T, De Villiers JS, Leis B. Acute Congestive Heart Failure in a Young Woman. CJC Open 2021; 3:214-216. [PMID: 33644737 PMCID: PMC7893184 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe the case of an adult First Nations woman employed as a daycare worker who presented with clinical symptoms, signs, and imaging suggestive of acute heart failure. In our report, we discuss the likely diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever. Novel teaching points: The incidence of rheumatic fever in Canada is likely underestimated, and it is important to consider the diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever in individuals presenting with acute heart failure. More research is needed in Canada to further identify groups most at risk for developing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preston Njaa
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Teresa Bree
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - Benjamin Leis
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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165
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Abstract
M and M-like proteins are major virulence factors of the widespread and potentially deadly bacterial pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes. These proteins confer resistance against innate and adaptive immune responses by recruiting specific human proteins to the streptococcal surface. Nonimmune recruitment of immunoglobulins G (IgG) and A (IgA) through their fragment crystallizable (Fc) domains by M and M-like proteins was described almost 40 years ago, but its impact on virulence remains unresolved. These interactions have been suggested to be consequential under immune conditions at mucosal surfaces and in secretions but not in plasma, while other evidence suggests importance in evading phagocytic killing in nonimmune blood. Recently, an indirect effect of Fc-binding through ligand-induced stabilization of an M-like protein was shown to increase virulence. Nonimmune recruitment has also been seen to contribute to tissue damage in animal models of autoimmune diseases triggered by S. pyogenes infection. The damage was treatable by targeting Fc-binding. This and other potential therapeutic applications warrant renewed attention to Fc-binding by M and M-like proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jori O. Mills
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Partho Ghosh
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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166
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Neglected cardiovascular diseases and their significance in the Global North. Herz 2021; 46:129-137. [PMID: 33506326 DOI: 10.1007/s00059-021-05020-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Due to increasing global migration, the spectrum of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is changing in developed countries. Up to 3% of migrants arriving in Europe have underlying CVD. Despite their high global prevalence, conditions such as rheumatic heart disease, Chagas disease, endomyocardial fibrosis, tuberculous pericarditis, peripartum cardiomyopathy, and pulmonary hypertension are often under-recognized, and, as a result, neglected in industrialized countries. Many of these conditions, and their causes, are often unfamiliar to the health-care providers in host countries. In this review, we summarize the epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic work-up, and management of neglected CVDs that have an increasing prevalence in the Global North.
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167
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Passos LSA, Nunes MCP, Aikawa E. Rheumatic Heart Valve Disease Pathophysiology and Underlying Mechanisms. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 7:612716. [PMID: 33537348 PMCID: PMC7848031 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.612716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic heart valve disease (RHVD) is a post-infectious sequel of acute rheumatic fever resulting from an abnormal immune response to a streptococcal pharyngitis that triggers valvular damage. RHVD is the leading cause of cardiovascular death in children and young adults, mainly in women from low and middle-income countries. It is known that long-term inflammation and high degree of fibrosis leads to valve dysfunction due to anatomic disruption of the valve apparatus. However, since public and private investments in RHVD studies are practically inexistent the number of publications is scarce. This disease shows different natural history and clinical presentations as compared to other degenerative heart valve diseases. Although more than five decades passed after the pioneering studies on the pathogenesis of RHVD, it is still unclear how self-tolerance mechanisms fail in this disease, and how humoral and cellular inflammatory responses are interconnected. Despite that pathological mechanisms have been already proposed for RHVD, none of them are able to explain the preferential involvement of the mitral valve. This review focuses on pathophysiology and underlying mechanisms of RHVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia S A Passos
- The Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria Carmo P Nunes
- Hospital das Clínicas e Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Elena Aikawa
- The Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Human Pathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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168
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Kang K, Chau KWT, Howell E, Anderson M, Smith S, Davis TJ, Starmer G, Hanson J. The temporospatial epidemiology of rheumatic heart disease in Far North Queensland, tropical Australia 1997-2017; impact of socioeconomic status on disease burden, severity and access to care. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0008990. [PMID: 33444355 PMCID: PMC7840049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) among Indigenous Australians remains one of the highest in the world. Many studies have highlighted the relationship between the social determinants of health and RHD, but few have used registry data to link socioeconomic disadvantage to the delivery of patient care and long-term outcomes. Methods A retrospective study of individuals living with RHD in Far North Queensland (FNQ), Australia between 1997 and 2017. Patients were identified using the Queensland state RHD register. The Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) Score–a measure of socioeconomic disadvantage–was correlated with RHD prevalence, disease severity and measures of RHD care. Results Of the 686 individuals, 622 (90.7%) were Indigenous Australians. RHD incidence increased in the region from 4.7/100,000/year in 1997 to 49.4/100,000/year in 2017 (p<0.001). In 2017, the prevalence of RHD was 12/1000 in the Indigenous population and 2/1000 in the non-Indigenous population (p<0.001). There was an inverse correlation between an area’s SEIFA score and its RHD prevalence (rho = -0.77, p = 0.005). 249 (36.2%) individuals in the cohort had 593 RHD-related hospitalisations; the number of RHD-related hospitalisations increased during the study period (p<0.001). In 2017, 293 (42.7%) patients met criteria for secondary prophylaxis, but only 73 (24.9%) had good adherence. Overall, 119/686 (17.3%) required valve surgery; the number of individuals having surgery increased over the study period (p = 0.02). During the study 39/686 (5.7%) died. Non-Indigenous patients were more likely to die than Indigenous patients (9/64 (14%) versus 30/622 (5%), p = 0.002), but Indigenous patients died at a younger age (median (IQR): 52 (35–67) versus 73 (62–77) p = 0.013). RHD-related deaths occurred at a younger age in Indigenous individuals than non-Indigenous individuals (median (IQR) age: 29 (12–58) versus 77 (64–78), p = 0.007). Conclusions The incidence of RHD, RHD-related hospitalisations and RHD-related surgery continues to rise in FNQ. Whilst this is partly explained by increased disease recognition and improved delivery of care, the burden of RHD remains unacceptably high and is disproportionately borne by the socioeconomically disadvantaged Indigenous population. Rheumatic heart disease (RHD), a disease of poverty and disadvantage, is almost completely preventable. It is now extremely rare in wealthy countries, but in Far North Queensland in tropical Australia, the incidence of RHD, RHD-related hospitalisations and RHD-related surgery is continuing to rise, with the burden of disease borne almost entirely by the region’s Indigenous population. While the increasing incidence of RHD and its complications may be partly explained by improvements in local service delivery, the disease remains inextricably linked to socioeconomic disadvantage. In this study, not only were patients living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas more likely to have RHD, but they were also paradoxically less likely to receive valve surgery. The current local model of care—which is centralised, medical and emphasises disease monitoring and secondary prophylaxis—appears to be having a limited impact on morbidity. Strategies must evolve—in partnership with Indigenous communities—to have a greater focus on disease prevention by addressing the personal, community and environmental factors that increase the risk of the disease. This is likely to not only reduce the incidence of RHD, but will also tend to reduce the burden of the many other diseases that result from socioeconomic disadvantage and that disproportionately affect Indigenous Australians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kang
- Department of Medicine, Cairns Hospital, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ken W. T. Chau
- Department of Medicine, Cairns Hospital, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Erin Howell
- Rheumatic Heart Disease Program, Tropical Public Health Unit, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mellise Anderson
- Rheumatic Heart Disease Program, Tropical Public Health Unit, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Simon Smith
- Department of Medicine, Cairns Hospital, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tania J. Davis
- Department of Cardiology, Cairns Hospital, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Greg Starmer
- Department of Cardiology, Cairns Hospital, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Josh Hanson
- Department of Medicine, Cairns Hospital, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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169
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Hempenstall A, Howell E, Kang K, Chau KWT, Browne AL, Kris E, Wapau H, Pilot P, Smith S, Reeves B, Hanson J. Echocardiographic Screening Detects Rheumatic Heart Disease and Missed Opportunities in the Treatment of Group A Streptococcal Infections in Australian Torres Strait Islander Children. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:1211-1214. [PMID: 33432909 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-0846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is almost entirely preventable, but the incidence in indigenous Australians remains one of the highest in the world. A community-based echocardiogram screening program of 862 Torres Strait Islander children identified 25 (2.9%) new cases of RHD. Among these 25 children, 5/7 (71%) prior acute rheumatic fever presentations had not been recognized. There was a history of microbiologically confirmed group A Streptococcus infection in 17/25 (68%) children with RHD compared with 9/25 (36%) controls (odds ratio [OR] [95% CI]: 3.78 [1.17-12.19], P = 0.03). This was more likely to be a skin swab (16/25 [64%] cases versus 6/25 [24%] controls) than a throat swab (1/25 [4%] cases versus 3/25 [12%] controls) (OR [95% CI]: 5.33 [1.51-18.90] [P = 0.01]), supporting a role for skin infection in RHD pathogenesis. Household crowding and unemployment were common in the cohort, emphasizing the need for prioritizing strategies that address the social determinants of health. This study explores the burden of rheumatic heart disease diagnosed during an echocardiogram screening program in the Torres Strait Islands in tropical Australia and highlights the importance of primordial and primary prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Hempenstall
- James Cook University, Cairns, Australia.,Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, Thursday Island, Australia
| | - Erin Howell
- Cairns Hospital and Hinterland Health Service, Cairns, Australia
| | - Katherine Kang
- Cairns Hospital and Hinterland Health Service, Cairns, Australia
| | - Ken W T Chau
- Cairns Hospital and Hinterland Health Service, Cairns, Australia
| | - Amy-Lou Browne
- Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, Thursday Island, Australia
| | - Ella Kris
- James Cook University, Cairns, Australia.,Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, Thursday Island, Australia
| | - Hylda Wapau
- Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, Thursday Island, Australia
| | - Pelista Pilot
- Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, Thursday Island, Australia
| | - Simon Smith
- Cairns Hospital and Hinterland Health Service, Cairns, Australia
| | - Benjamin Reeves
- Cairns Hospital and Hinterland Health Service, Cairns, Australia
| | - Josh Hanson
- The Kirby Institute, Sydney, Australia.,Cairns Hospital and Hinterland Health Service, Cairns, Australia
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170
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Heard MA, Green MC, Royer M. Acute Rheumatic Fever: A Review of Essential Cutaneous and Histological Findings. Cureus 2021; 13:e12577. [PMID: 33575142 PMCID: PMC7870119 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.12577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an autoimmune response that may occur after infection with group A Streptococcus. Clinical manifestations are protean, making the syndrome difficult to recognize in the 21st century. Secondary prophylaxis with benzathine penicillin is given for 10 years after an episode of ARF to prevent recurrence and reduce the risk of rheumatic heart disease. This case highlights the importance of providing a detailed clinical history to the dermatopathologist when considering ARF in the differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Heard
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of New England, Biddeford, USA
| | - Margaret C Green
- Dermatology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, USA
| | - Michael Royer
- Dermatopathology, Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, USA
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171
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de Crombrugghe G, Baroux N, Botteaux A, Moreland NJ, Williamson DA, Steer AC, Smeesters PR. The Limitations of the Rheumatogenic Concept for Group A Streptococcus: Systematic Review and Genetic Analysis. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 70:1453-1460. [PMID: 31334754 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The concept that a minority of group A streptococcus (GAS) emm types are more "rheumatogenic" than others has been widely disseminated. We aimed to provide a comprehensive list of acute rheumatic fever-associated GAS isolates and assess the presence of associated rheumatogenic motifs. METHODS Articles reporting GAS emm-type or emm-type-specific antibody responses associated with rheumatic fever were identified from 1 January 1944 to 31 July 2018. The revised Jones criteria were used to define rheumatic fever with a maximum period of 4 weeks between disease onset and microbiological characterization. A database of 175 representative M-protein sequences was used to analyze the protein diversity of rheumatic fever-associated strains in a phylogenetic tree and to identify the presence of 10 previously recognized rheumatogenic motifs. RESULTS We included 411 cases of rheumatic fever, for which microbiological characterization identified 73 different emm types associated with the disease. The classic rheumatogenic emm types represented only 12.3% of the 73 emm types and were responsible for 31.6% of the 411 clinical cases. Rheumatic fever-associated emm types were disseminated throughout the phylogeny, suggesting they belong to various genetic backgrounds. Rheumatic fever-associated motifs were present in only 15.1% of the rheumatic fever-associated emm types and only 24.8% of clinical cases. CONCLUSIONS The concept of rheumatogenicity should be extended to include strains other than those classically described. Our results highlight significant knowledge gaps in the understanding of rheumatic fever pathogenesis and suggest that a GAS vaccine candidate should offer broad coverage against a variety of GAS genetic variants in order to protect against this serious sequela.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle de Crombrugghe
- Academic Children Hospital Queen Fabiola, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Noemie Baroux
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anne Botteaux
- Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew C Steer
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for International Child Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pierre R Smeesters
- Academic Children Hospital Queen Fabiola, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for International Child Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
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172
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Taiaroa G, Matalavea B, Tafuna'i M, Lacey JA, Price DJ, Isaia L, Leaupepe H, Viali S, Lee D, Gorrie CL, Williamson DA, Jack S. Scabies and impetigo in Samoa: A school-based clinical and molecular epidemiological study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC 2020; 6:100081. [PMID: 34327410 PMCID: PMC8315614 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2020.100081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Common infections of the skin such as impetigo and scabies represent a large burden of disease globally, being particularly prevalent in tropical and resource-limited settings. Efforts to address these infections through mass drug administrations have recently been shown as efficacious and safe. In Samoa, a Pacific Island nation, there is a marked lack of epidemiological data for these neglected tropical diseases, or appreciation of their drivers in this setting. Methods An observational, cross-sectional survey of children aged between 4 and 15 years attending primary schools in rural areas of Upolu Island, Samoa was carried out to assess the prevalence of impetigo and scabies in schoolchildren residing in rural Samoa, integrated with descriptive epidemiological and microbial genomic data. A phylogenetic assessment of local Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Samoan schoolchildren was performed to estimate putative community transmission. Findings In this survey, the prevalence of impetigo observed in Samoan schoolchildren was one of the highest described globally (57•1%, 95% CI [53•8-60•5%], 476/833). Associations between active impetigo and age and gender were noted, with younger children and males more commonly affected (aOR2•8 [1•8-4•7]and aOR1•8 [1•3-2•5], respectively). The prevalence of scabies was similar to that seen in other South Pacific island countries (14•4%, 95% CI [12•2-17•0%], 120/833). Transmission of S. aureus was predicted, primarily between those children attending the same school. Carriage of S. pyogenes was notably low, with pharyngeal carriage observed in less than 2% of schoolchildren, consistent with earlier studies from Samoa. Interpretation This study describes a considerable burden of disease attributed to impetigo and scabies in Samoa. These findings will be valuable in addressing the public health challenge posed by these conditions, providing baseline prevalence data and highlighting practical strategies to reduce transmission of relevant microbes and parasites in this setting. Tala Tomua O a'afiaga o le pa'u i fa'ama'i o le po'u (impetigo) ma le utu o le pa'u (scabies), ua tele naua le fanau ua maua ai i le pasefika, ma le lalolagi atoa. O fuafuaga vaai mamao ma polokalame e fofoina ai nei faafitauli, e aofia ai le inumaga o fualaau e tapeina ai nei fa'ama'i, ua aliali mai ai e mafai ona faatamaia nei fa'ama'i. E le o tele ni tusitusiga ma faamaumauga i totonu o Samoa, pe ta'atele nei fa'amai o le pa'u pe leai. Ona o le le faatauaina o nei fa'ama'i, e le o iloa fo'i ni mafuaga ma nisi tulaga e faateleina ai nei fa'ama'i o le pa'u i Samoa. Faatinoina o le suesuega O le suesuega faasaenisi i le fanau aoga i le va o le 4 ma le 15 tausaga o loo ao'oga i le tulaga lua i nisi o nu'u i tua i Upolu, na faatinoina ai suesuega lea, ia suesueina ai le aotelega ma fainumera o le fanau ua maua i fa'ama'I o le po'u (impetigo) ma le utu o le pa'u (scabies). O lenei foi suesuega, na fia iloa ai fo'i po'o a ituaiga siama eseese o loo maua i luga o pa'u ma tino o le fanau aoga, ina ia iloa ai foi auala ua pipisi ai nei siama mai le isi tamaitiiti i le isi, ona mafua ai lea o nei fa'ama'i o le pa'u. Tanuuga o le suesuega Ua faailoa mai i le suesuega, le ta'atele o le fa'ama'i o le po'u (impetigo) ua maua ai le fanau aoga (57%), i aoga na faia ai le suesuega. O se fainumera ua maualuga tele i le lalolagi atoa. E toatele atu nisi o le fanau laiti (younger) ma tama (male) e maua i le po'u nai lo isi tamaiti. O le fainumera o le utu o le pa'u (scabies) (14·4%) e tai tutusa lava ma isi motu o le Pasefika. O le feaveaina o le siama faapitoa (staph aureus) ua tupu lea i le fanau ua ao'oga i le aoga e tasi. E le toatele foi nisi o le fanau (2%) na maua i le siama faapitoa o le fa'ai (strep pyogenes) e ona mafua ai le fiva rumatika. O lenei fainumera ua tai tutusa ma suesuega faasaenisi na fai muamua i Samoa. Aotelega O le aotelega la o lenei suesuega faasaenisi, ua faailoaina mai ai le tele naua o le fa'ama'i o le pa'u, o po'u (impetigo) ma le utu o le pa'u (scabies) i Samoa nei. O nei foi suesuega o le a aoga tele ini polokalame ma ni fuafuaga mamao e fa'afoisia ai nei faafitauli i le soifua maloloina o le fanau i Samoa. O le a avea foi nei fainumera e faamaumauina mo le silafia e le atunuu ma le soifua maloloina, le ta'atele o nei fa'amai o le pa'u, mo le tapenaina o ni fofo talafeagai ise taimi o i luma, ina ia faaitiitina ai le pipisi o nei siami i fanau ao'oga i Samoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Taiaroa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ben Matalavea
- Faculty of Medicine, National University of Samoa, Apia, Samoa.,National Kidney Foundation of Samoa, Apia, Samoa
| | - Malama Tafuna'i
- Centre for Pacific Health, Division of Health Sciences, The University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jake A Lacey
- Doherty Department at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David J Price
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory Epidemiology Unit, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lupeoletalalelei Isaia
- Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole National Hospital Laboratory, Samoa Ministry of Health, Apia, Samoa
| | - Hinauri Leaupepe
- Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole National Hospital Laboratory, Samoa Ministry of Health, Apia, Samoa
| | | | - Darren Lee
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Claire L Gorrie
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia.,Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan Jack
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, New Zealand.,Public Health Unit, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Norrby-Teglund A, Siemens N. Is It Time to Reconsider the Group A Streptococcal Rheumatogenic Concept? Clin Infect Dis 2020; 70:1461-1462. [PMID: 31334751 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Norrby-Teglund
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Nikolai Siemens
- Center for Functional Genomics of Microbes, Department of Molecular Genetics and Infection Biology, University of Greifswald, Germany
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Wyber R, Noonan K, Halkon C, Enkel S, Cannon J, Haynes E, Mitchell AG, Bessarab DC, Katzenellenbogen JM, Bond-Smith D, Seth R, D'Antoine H, Ralph AP, Bowen AC, Brown A, Carapetis JR. Ending rheumatic heart disease in Australia: the evidence for a new approach. Med J Aust 2020; 213 Suppl 10:S3-S31. [PMID: 33190287 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.50853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
■The RHD Endgame Strategy: the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031 (the Endgame Strategy) is the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Australia by 2031. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live with one of the highest per capita burdens of RHD in the world. ■The Endgame Strategy synthesises information compiled across the 5-year lifespan of the End Rheumatic Heart Disease Centre of Research Excellence (END RHD CRE). Data and results from priority research projects across several disciplines of research complemented literature reviews, systematic reviews and narrative reviews. Further, the experiences of those working in acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and RHD control and those living with RHD to provide the technical evidence for eliminating RHD in Australia were included. ■The lived experience of RHD is a critical factor in health outcomes. All future strategies to address ARF and RHD must prioritise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's knowledge, perspectives and experiences and develop co-designed approaches to RHD elimination. The environmental, economic, social and political context of RHD in Australia is inexorably linked to ending the disease. ■Statistical modelling undertaken in 2019 looked at the economic and health impacts of implementing an indicative strategy to eliminate RHD by 2031. Beginning in 2019, the strategy would include: reducing household crowding, improving hygiene infrastructure, strengthening primary health care and improving secondary prophylaxis. It was estimated that the strategy would prevent 663 deaths and save the health care system $188 million. ■The Endgame Strategy provides the evidence for a new approach to RHD elimination. It proposes an implementation framework of five priority action areas. These focus on strategies to prevent new cases of ARF and RHD early in the causal pathway from Streptococcus pyogenes exposure to ARF, and strategies that address the critical systems and structural changes needed to support a comprehensive RHD elimination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Wyber
- George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW.,Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rebecca Seth
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,University of Western Australia, Perth, WA
| | | | | | - Asha C Bowen
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA
| | - Alex Brown
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA.,University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA
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175
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Tormin JPAS, Nascimento BR, Sable CA, da Silva JLP, Brandao-de-Resende C, Rocha LPC, Pinto CHR, Neves EGA, Macedo FVB, Fraga CL, Oliveira KKB, Diamantino AC, Ribeiro ALP, Beaton AZ, Nunes MCP, Dutra WO. Cytokine gene functional polymorphisms and phenotypic expression as predictors of evolution from latent to clinical rheumatic heart disease. Cytokine 2020; 138:155370. [PMID: 33341346 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inflammation associated with rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is influenced by gene polymorphisms and inflammatory cytokines. There are currently no immunologic and genetic markers to discriminate latent versus clinical patients, critical to predict disease evolution. Employing machine-learning, we searched for predictors that could discriminate latent versus clinical RHD, and eventually identify latent patients that may progress to clinical disease. METHODS A total of 212 individuals were included, 77 with latent, 100 with clinical RHD, and 35 healthy controls. Circulating levels of 27 soluble factors were evaluated using Bio-Plex ProTM® Human Cytokine Standard 27-plex assay. Gene polymorphism analyses were performed using RT-PCR for the following genes: IL2, IL4, IL6, IL10, IL17A, TNF and IL23. RESULTS Serum levels of all cytokines were higher in clinical as compared to latent RHD patients, and in those groups than in controls. IL-4, IL-8, IL-1RA, IL-9, CCL5 and PDGF emerged in the final multivariate model as predictive factors for clinical, compared with latent RHD. IL-4, IL-8 and IL1RA had the greater power to predict clinical RHD. In univariate analysis, polymorphisms in IL2 and IL4 were associated with clinical RHD and in the logistic analysis, IL6 (GG + CG), IL10 (CT + TT), IL2 (CA + AA) and IL4 (CC) genotypes were associated with RHD. CONCLUSION Despite higher levels of all cytokines in clinical RHD patients, IL-4, IL-8 and IL-1RA were the best predictors of clinical disease. An association of polymorphisms in IL2, IL4, IL6 and IL10 genes and clinical RHD was observed. Gene polymorphism and phenotypic expression of IL-4 accurately discriminate latent versus clinical RHD, potentially instructing clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia P A S Tormin
- Serviço de Cardiologia e Cirurgia Cardiovascular e Centro de Telessaúde do Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Bruno R Nascimento
- Serviço de Cardiologia e Cirurgia Cardiovascular e Centro de Telessaúde do Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Craig A Sable
- Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jose Luiz P da Silva
- Departamento de Estatística, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Camilo Brandao-de-Resende
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiz Paulo C Rocha
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cecília H R Pinto
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Eula Graciele A Neves
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Frederico V B Macedo
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Clara L Fraga
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Kaciane K B Oliveira
- Serviço de Cardiologia e Cirurgia Cardiovascular e Centro de Telessaúde do Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Antônio Luiz P Ribeiro
- Serviço de Cardiologia e Cirurgia Cardiovascular e Centro de Telessaúde do Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Andrea Z Beaton
- The Heart Institute, Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center, and the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Maria Carmo P Nunes
- Serviço de Cardiologia e Cirurgia Cardiovascular e Centro de Telessaúde do Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Walderez O Dutra
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; National Institute of Science and Technology in Tropical Diseases (INCT-DT), Salvador, BA, Brazil
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176
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McMurray JC, May JW, Cunningham MW, Jones OY. Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), a Post-viral Myocarditis and Systemic Vasculitis-A Critical Review of Its Pathogenesis and Treatment. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:626182. [PMID: 33425823 PMCID: PMC7793714 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.626182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MIS-C is a newly defined post-viral myocarditis and inflammatory vasculopathy of children following COVID-19 infection. This review summarizes the literature on diagnosis, parameters of disease severity, and current treatment regimens. The clinical perspective was analyzed in light of potential immunopathogenesis and compared to other post-infectious and inflammatory illnesses of children affecting the heart. In this paradigm, the evidence supports the importance of endothelial injury and activation of the IL-1 pathway as a common determinant among MIS-C, Kawasaki disease, and Acute Rheumatic fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy C. McMurray
- Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Joseph W. May
- Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Madeleine W. Cunningham
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Olcay Y. Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, WRNMMC, Bethesda, MD, United States
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177
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Dooley LM, Ahmad TB, Pandey M, Good MF, Kotiw M. Rheumatic heart disease: A review of the current status of global research activity. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 20:102740. [PMID: 33333234 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a serious and long-term consequence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), an autoimmune sequela of a mucosal infection by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, Strep A). The pathogenesis of ARF and RHD is complex and not fully understood but involves host and bacterial factors, molecular mimicry, and aberrant host innate and adaptive immune responses that result in loss of self-tolerance and subsequent cross-reactivity with host tissues. RHD is entirely preventable yet claims an estimated 320 000 lives annually. The major burden of disease is carried by developing nations and Indigenous populations within developed nations, including Australia. This review will focus on the epidemiology, pathogenesis and treatment of ARF and RHD in Australia, where: streptococcal pyoderma, rather than streptococcal pharyngitis, and Group C and Group G Streptococcus, have been implicated as antecedents to ARF; the rates of RHD in remote Indigenous communities are persistently among the highest in the world; government register-based programs coordinate disease screening and delivery of prophylaxis with variable success; and researchers are making significant progress in the development of a broad-spectrum vaccine against Strep A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne M Dooley
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia; Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Tarek B Ahmad
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia; Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Manisha Pandey
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Michael F Good
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Michael Kotiw
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia; Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
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178
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Jia T, Wang C, Han Z, Wang X, Ding M, Wang Q. Experimental Rodent Models of Cardiovascular Diseases. Front Cardiovasc Med 2020; 7:588075. [PMID: 33365329 PMCID: PMC7750387 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.588075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases, as the most common non-communicable disease in the world, cause a high mortality rate today and bring a serious medical burden to countries worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Experimental rodent models are widely used for cardiovascular diseases researches due to the effective simulation of human cardiovascular diseases, strong reproductive ability, and easy detection. Herein, we will summarize the pathological manifestations of common cardiovascular diseases and illustrate the establishment of corresponding experimental rodent models in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Jia
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhengxi Han
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaozhi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Ding
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Quanyi Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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179
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Adem A, Dukessa Gemechu T, Jarso H, Reta W. Rheumatic Heart Disease Patients' Adherence to Secondary Prophylaxis and Associated Factors at Hospitals in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia: A Multicenter Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2020; 14:2399-2406. [PMID: 33304095 PMCID: PMC7723230 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s281413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a major cause of preventable premature cardiovascular-related death in developing countries. However, information regarding adherence rates and associated factors is limited and inconsistent in Ethiopia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to November 2019 among selected RHD patients on follow-up at four hospitals in Jimma zone. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Adherence of RHD patients to secondary prophylaxis in the previous consecutive 12 months was assessed based on the annual frequency of received prophylaxis (monthly injection of benzathine penicillin). Good adherence was considered the patient receiving >80% of the annual dose. The collected data were entered into Epidata 3.1 and analysed using SPSS 23. RESULTS A total of 253 RHD patients taking prophylaxis were included in the analysis, and of those 178 (70.4%) were female, giving a male:female ratio of 1:2.4. The mean age was 24±11 (6-65) years. About 63% had good adherence to benzathine penicillin prophylaxis. New York Heart Association functional class I and II, rural residence, >30 km from health facility, and duration of prophylaxis >5 years were associated with poor adherence (respectively: AOR 12.6 [95% CI 2.5-63], P=0.016; AOR 6.8 [95% CI 1.9-24.4], P=0.003; AOR 5.5 [95% CI 1.2-26.7], P=0.046; AOR 1.2 [95% CI 1.1-3.2], P=0.021). Leading barriers to good adherence were long distance from the treatment setting (56.9%), followed by lack of money (38%). CONCLUSION Patients with class I and II heart failure and those living in rural areas, especially >30 km from a hospital, were identified to be poorly adherent to secondary prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alinur Adem
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Health Science, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Dukessa Gemechu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Health Science, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Habtemu Jarso
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Institute of Health Science, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Wondu Reta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health Science, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
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180
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Cannon JW, Zhung J, Bennett J, Moreland NJ, Baker MG, Geelhoed E, Fraser J, Carapetis JR, Jack S. The economic and health burdens of diseases caused by group A Streptococcus in New Zealand. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 103:176-181. [PMID: 33278622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.11.193] [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: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In preparation for the future arrival of a group A Streptococcus (GAS) vaccine, this study estimated the economic and health burdens of GAS diseases in New Zealand (NZ). METHODS The annual incidence of GAS diseases was based on extrapolation of the average number of primary healthcare episodes managed each year in general practices (2014-2016) and on the average number of hospitalizations occurring each year (2005-2014). Disease incidence was multiplied by the average cost of diagnosing and managing an episode of disease at each level of care to estimate the annual economic burden. RESULTS GAS affected 1.5% of the population each year, resulting in an economic burden of 29.2 million NZ dollars (2015 prices) and inflicting a health burden of 2373 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Children <5 years of age were the most likely age group to present for GAS-related healthcare. Presentations for superficial throat and skin infections (predominantly pharyngitis and impetigo) were more common than other GAS diseases. Cellulitis contributed the most to the total economic and health burdens. Invasive and immune-mediated diseases disproportionately contributed to the total economic and health burdens relative to their frequency of occurrence. CONCLUSION Preventing GAS diseases would have substantial economic and health benefits in NZ and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Cannon
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Jane Zhung
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Julie Bennett
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Elizabeth Geelhoed
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - John Fraser
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Susan Jack
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Southern District Health Board, Dunedin, New Zealand
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A dual-adjuvanting strategy for peptide-based subunit vaccines against group A Streptococcus: Lipidation and polyelectrolyte complexes. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115823. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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182
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Passos LS, Nunes MCP, Zilla P, Yacoub MH, Aikawa E. Raising awareness for rheumatic mitral valve disease. Glob Cardiol Sci Pract 2020; 2020:e202026. [PMID: 33426043 PMCID: PMC7768627 DOI: 10.21542/gcsp.2020.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a major burden in low- to mid-income countries, where each year it accounts for over a million premature deaths associated with severe valve disease. Life-saving valve replacement procedures are not available to the majority of affected RHD patients, contributing to an increased risk of death in young adults and creating a devastating impact. In December 2017, a group of representatives of major cardiothoracic societies and industry, discussed the plight of the millions of patients who suffer from RHD. A comprehensive solution based on this global partnership was outlined in "The Cape Town Declaration on Access to Cardiac Surgery in the Developing World". The key challenge in controlling RHD is related to identification and removal of barriers to the translation of existing knowledge into policy, programs, and practice to provide high-quality care for patients with RHD. This review provides an overview on RHD by emphasizing the disease medical and economic burdens worldwide, risk factors, recent advance for early disease detection, and overall preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia S.A. Passos
- The Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria Carmo P. Nunes
- Hospital das Clínicas e Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Peter Zilla
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Elena Aikawa
- The Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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183
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Severe Pharyngodynia Followed by Migratory Polyarthritis and High Fever in Young Immigrants: Remember That Rheumatic Fever Is Still Relevant in 2020! Case Rep Infect Dis 2020; 2020:8854868. [PMID: 33204550 PMCID: PMC7657701 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8854868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is the immune-mediated sequelae of untreated group-A streptococcal infection. In this regard, rheumatic heart disease is the most prominent manifestation with devastating long-term complications. In the postantibiotic era, ARF is extremely rare in high-income countries; thus, its diagnosis might escape the clinicians' notice. However, its incidence remains high not only in certain low- and middle-income regions with poor public health systems but also in socioeconomically vulnerable populations residing in high-income countries. Herein, we report two cases of ARF in young immigrant adults in order to highlight the need for increased clinical suspicion to establish a prompt and timely diagnosis of ARF and describe in detail its differential diagnosis and approach to treatment.
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184
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Pearce S, Bowen AC, Engel ME, de la Lande M, Barth DD. The incidence of sore throat and group A streptococcal pharyngitis in children at high risk of developing acute rheumatic fever: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242107. [PMID: 33206687 PMCID: PMC7673496 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis has traditionally been considered the sole precursor of acute rheumatic fever (ARF). Evidence from Australia, however, suggests that GAS skin infections may contribute to the pathogenesis of ARF. A missing piece of evidence is the incidence of sore throat and GAS pharyngitis in this setting. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the incidence of sore throat and GAS pharyngitis in all children at risk of developing ARF. METHODS Databases were systematically searched for studies reporting on the incidence of pharyngitis among children from low to upper-middle income countries, and Indigenous children living in high-income countries. Studies were subjected to data extraction by two independent reviewers. Following an assessment of the methodological quality of the studies, we extracted incidence rates (IRs) and conducted a meta-analysis. This systematic review is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42019113019). RESULTS From 607 titles identified by the search, 11 articles met the predetermined inclusion criteria; ten studies reported IRs while for the remaining study, the incidence was calculated. The pooled incidence estimated for sore throat was 82.5 per 100 child-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.5 to 1044.4 per 100 child-years, I2 = 100%) and GAS pharyngitis was 10.8 per 100 child-years (95% CI, 2.3 to 50.0 per 100 child-years, I2 = 99.9%). CONCLUSIONS The pooled IRs for sore throat in children at risk of developing ARF were higher than rates reported in developed nations (32.70-40 per 100 child-years) and similar for GAS pharyngitis (12.8-14 per 100 years). The limited Australian data lend support to the need for further studies to inform the role of GAS pharyngitis in the development of ARF in Australian Indigenous children, so as to inform local primary prevention strategies for ARF and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Pearce
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Asha C. Bowen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mark E. Engel
- Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Maya de la Lande
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Dylan D. Barth
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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185
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Elhewala AA, Sanad M, Soliman AM, Sami MM, Ahmed AA. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 in pediatric rheumatic heart disease with and without heart failure. Biomed Rep 2020; 14:4. [PMID: 33240496 DOI: 10.3892/br.2020.1380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In cardiovascular disorders, the myocardium may be subjected to the breakdown and remodeling of collagen by metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). We hypothesized that the serum MMP-9 concentration may be elevated in pediatric patients with rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and heart failure (HF), and its level can be correlated with the HF severity. Thus, in the present study, we aimed to evaluate the sensitivity and accuracy of MMP-9 to predict HF in children with RHD and to determine its effectiveness as an indicator of the degree of HF. This study included 98 consecutive children admitted to the Department of Pediatrics, Zagazig University Hospital, Al Sharqia Governorate, Egypt with newly diagnosed RHD. Their ages ranged from 8.5 to 16 years. Fifty-eight children had RHD without HF while 40 children were complicated with HF which was diagnosed clinically and by echocardiography. A total of 44 healthy children were enrolled as a control group. MMP-9 serum levels were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The serum MMP-9 concentration was higher in the RHD without HF and RHD with HF groups than this level noted in the control (P<0.001). MMP-9 was a significant predictor of HF; area under the curve (AUC)=0.85 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.76-0.94]. At the level of 386.9 ng/ml, MMP-9 detected HF with a sensitivity 95% (95% CI, 83.08-99.39), specificity 74.14% (95% CI, 60.96-84.74), positive predictive value 71.70% (95% CI, 61.96-79.75), negative predictive value 95.56% (95% CI, 84.67-98.82) and accuracy 82.65% (95% CI, 73.69-89.56). In addition, MMP-9 showed a significant negative correlation with ejection fraction and fractional shortening (P=0.01 and P=0.02, respectively). In conclusion; MMP-9 may be an independent sensitive marker with which to detect HF in children with RHD and it can predict the prognoses of these patients as it correlates with the severity of HF. Further studies considering MMP-9 in the detection of 'silent' RHD in school aged children and asymptomatic HF in children with known RHD especially in rural areas, are highly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Elhewala
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Al Sharqia Governorate 44519, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Sanad
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Al Sharqia Governorate 44519, Egypt
| | - Alshimaa M Soliman
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Al Sharqia Governorate 44519, Egypt
| | - May M Sami
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Al Sharqia Governorate 44519, Egypt
| | - Alshymaa A Ahmed
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Al Sharqia Governorate 44519, Egypt
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186
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Katzenellenbogen JM, Bond‐Smith D, Seth RJ, Dempsey K, Cannon J, Stacey I, Wade V, de Klerk N, Greenland M, Sanfilippo FM, Brown A, Carapetis JR, Wyber R, Nedkoff L, Hung J, Bessarab D, Ralph AP. Contemporary Incidence and Prevalence of Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease in Australia Using Linked Data: The Case for Policy Change. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e016851. [PMID: 32924748 PMCID: PMC7792417 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.016851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background In 2018, the World Health Organization prioritized control of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD), including disease surveillance. We developed strategies for estimating contemporary ARF/RHD incidence and prevalence in Australia (2015-2017) by age group, sex, and region for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians based on innovative, direct methods. Methods and Results This population-based study used linked administrative data from 5 Australian jurisdictions. A cohort of ARF (age <45 years) and RHD cases (<55 years) were sourced from jurisdictional ARF/RHD registers, surgical registries, and inpatient data. We developed robust methods for epidemiologic case ascertainment for ARF/RHD. We calculated age-specific and age-standardized incidence and prevalence. Age-standardized rate and prevalence ratios compared disease burden between demographic subgroups. Of 1425 ARF episodes, 72.1% were first-ever, 88.8% in Indigenous people and 78.6% were aged <25 years. The age-standardized ARF first-ever rates were 71.9 and 0.60/100 000 for Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations, respectively (age-standardized rate ratio=124.1; 95% CI, 105.2-146.3). The 2017 Global Burden of Disease RHD prevalent counts for Australia (<55 years) underestimate the burden (1518 versus 6156 Australia-wide extrapolated from our study). The Indigenous age-standardized RHD prevalence (666.3/100 000) was 61.4 times higher (95% CI, 59.3-63.5) than non-Indigenous (10.9/100 000). Female RHD prevalence was double that in males. Regions in northern Australia had the highest rates. Conclusions This study provides the most accurate estimates to date of Australian ARF and RHD rates. The high Indigenous burden necessitates urgent government action. Findings suggest RHD may be underestimated in many high-resource settings. The linked data methods outlined here have potential for global applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karen Dempsey
- Menzies School of Health ResearchCharles Darwin UniversityDarwinAustralia
| | | | | | - Vicki Wade
- Menzies School of Health ResearchCharles Darwin UniversityDarwinAustralia
| | - Nicholas de Klerk
- The University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
- Telethon Kids InstitutePerthAustralia
| | | | | | - Alex Brown
- Telethon Kids InstitutePerthAustralia
- South Australian Medical Research InstituteAdelaideAustralia
- The University of AdelaideAustralia
| | | | - Rosemary Wyber
- Telethon Kids InstitutePerthAustralia
- The George Institute for Global HealthSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Lee Nedkoff
- The University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | - Joe Hung
- The University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | | | - Anna P. Ralph
- Menzies School of Health ResearchCharles Darwin UniversityDarwinAustralia
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187
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Washington A, Varki N, Valderrama JA, Nizet V, Bui JD. Evaluation of IL-17D in Host Immunity to Group A Streptococcus Infection. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 205:3122-3129. [PMID: 33077643 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
IL-17D is a cytokine that belongs to the IL-17 family and is conserved in vertebrates and invertebrates. In contrast to IL-17A and IL-17F, which are expressed in Th17 cells, IL-17D is expressed broadly in nonimmune cells. IL-17D can promote immune responses to cancer and viruses in part by inducing chemokines and recruiting innate immune cells such as NK cells. Although bacterial infection can induce IL-17D in fish and invertebrates, the role of mammalian IL-17D in antibacterial immunity has not been established. To determine whether IL-17D has a role in mediating host defense against bacterial infections, we studied i.p. infection by group A Streptococcus (GAS) in wild-type (WT) and Il17d -/- mice. Compared with WT animals, mice deficient in IL-17D experienced decreased survival, had greater weight loss, and showed increased bacterial burden in the kidney and peritoneal cavity following GAS challenge. In WT animals, IL-17D transcript was induced by GAS infection and correlated to increased levels of chemokine CCL2 and greater neutrophil recruitment. Of note, GAS-mediated IL-17D induction in nonimmune cells required live bacteria, suggesting that processes beyond recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns were required for IL-17D induction. Based on our results, we propose a model in which nonimmune cells can discriminate between nonviable and viable GAS cells, responding only to the latter by inducing IL-17D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Washington
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Nissi Varki
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093.,Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - J Andrés Valderrama
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92161; and
| | - Victor Nizet
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92161; and.,Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Jack D Bui
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093;
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188
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Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains the most common cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally in children and young adults. This article focuses on prevention and management of RHD. Pregnancy can unmask previously undiagnosed RHD and poses high risk for mother and fetus. Management of anticoagulation is important. Definitive catheter and surgical intervention are the only treatments that can improve outcomes of patients with moderate or severe RHD. Access to intervention remains very limited in RHD endemic regions. There are ongoing global efforts to increase awareness, public policy adoption, and greater access to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Sable
- Cardiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Avenue, Northwest, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
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189
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Soesanto AM, Suastika LOS. Echocardiography Screening for Latent Rheumatic Heart Disease: What Can We Do in Indonesia? Front Surg 2020; 7:46. [PMID: 32974379 PMCID: PMC7466630 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2020.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD), a sequela of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), is a preventable disease but remains a significant health problem, especially in developing countries. It causes disability, poor quality of life, early mortality, and national economic burden. The World Heart Federation (WHF) aimed to achieve a 25% reduction in premature deaths from ARF and RHD among individuals aged <25 years by 2025. Primordial and primary prophylaxis of RHD is aimed to prevent the occurrence of ARF, while the goal of secondary and tertiary prophylaxis is to limit the progression and reduce the consequences of RHD. Early recognition of RHD is important for early prophylaxis strategies to inhibit any progression to advanced stages. In 2012, WHF introduced the latest echocardiographic criteria to recognize the early stage of RHD. This includes the evaluation of pathological regurgitation jet and morphological features of RHD based on 2D, color, and spectral Doppler criteria. In remote areas, portable echocardiography is preferable for RHD screening. Previous portable devices were only capable of producing 2D and color images. Hence, a simplified echocardiographic criterion without spectral Doppler evaluation is needed in selected areas. Indonesia is a developing country, an archipelago with a population of over 250 million. Currently, there are no data on ARF incidence and RHD prevalence nationwide. The only data available are the number of patients in advanced stages who came to referral centers for further management. The screening program has to be introduced in Indonesia as part of national RHD prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amiliana M Soesanto
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia/National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Luh Oliva Saraswati Suastika
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Udayana University Hospital, Denpasar, Indonesia
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190
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Poomarimuthu M, Ramasamy T, Govindan R, Andiappan R, Nagarajan G, Kadiam S, Mariakuttikan J. Association of HLA-DRB1 Alleles with Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease: A Meta-analysis. Immunol Invest 2020; 51:221-232. [PMID: 32967480 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2020.1822864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatic fever (RF) and its sequel rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is an autoimmune disease caused by an abnormal host immune response to group A streptococcus (GAS) infection. The HLA class II molecules are entailed in immune-mediated infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases including RHD. However, HLA class II genes are reported to be associated with RF/RHD across different populations with a very little consistency. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to investigate the association between HLA class II genes and RF/RHD by meta-analysis. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify all relevant case-control studies published before December 31, 2019. The data were extracted using standardized form and pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) are calculated to assess the strength of the association between HLA class II genes and RF/RHD. RESULTS Thirteen studies for HLA-DRB1 alleles (1065 patients and 1691 controls) and eight studies for HLA-DQB1 alleles (644 patients and 1088 controls) were finally included. The meta-analysis showed a significantly higher frequency of HLA-DRB1*07 allele (OR = 1.68, P < .0001) in RF/RHD patients when compared to controls, while the frequency of HLA-DRB1*15 allele (OR = 0.60, P = .03) was significantly lower in RF/RHD patients than in controls. However, there were no significant differences in the frequency of HLA-DQB1 alleles between RF/RHD patients and controls. CONCLUSIONS The results of the meta-analysis suggest that the differential presentation of autoimmune peptides by HLA-DRB1*07 (susceptible) and HLA-DRB1*15 (protective) alleles with different affinities may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of RF/RHD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thirunavukkarasu Ramasamy
- Maternal-Child Health Center, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India.,Department of Immunology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, India
| | - Ramajayam Govindan
- Multidisciplinary Research Unit, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, India
| | - Rathinavel Andiappan
- Department of Cardio Vascular Thoracic Surgery, Madurai Medical College & Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai, India
| | - Gunavathy Nagarajan
- Department of Immunology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, India
| | - Sony Kadiam
- Department of Immunology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, India
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191
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Luetscher RND, McKitrick TR, Gao C, Mehta AY, McQuillan AM, Kardish R, Boligan KF, Song X, Lu L, Heimburg-Molinaro J, von Gunten S, Alter G, Cummings RD. Unique repertoire of anti-carbohydrate antibodies in individual human serum. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15436. [PMID: 32963315 PMCID: PMC7509809 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71967-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Humoral immunity to pathogens and other environmental challenges is paramount to maintain normal health, and individuals lacking or unable to make antibodies are at risk. Recent studies indicate that many human protective antibodies are against carbohydrate antigens; however, little is known about repertoires and individual variation of anti-carbohydrate antibodies in healthy individuals. Here we analyzed anti-carbohydrate antibody repertoires (ACARs) of 105 healthy individual adult donors, aged 20-60+ from different ethnic backgrounds to explore variations in antibodies, as defined by binding to glycan microarrays and by affinity purification. Using microarrays that contained > 1,000 glycans, including antigens from animal cells and microbes, we profiled the IgG and IgM ACARs from all donors. Each donor expressed many ACAs, but had a relatively unique ACAR, which included unanticipated antibodies to carbohydrate antigens not well studied, such as chitin oligosaccharides, Forssman-related antigens, globo-type antigens, and bacterial glycans. We also saw some expected antibodies to ABO(H) blood group and α-Gal-type antigens, although these also varied among individuals. Analysis suggests differences in ACARs are associated with ethnicity and age. Thus, each individual ACAR is relatively unique, suggesting that individualized information could be useful in precision medicine for predicting and monitoring immune health and resistance to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph N D Luetscher
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Biology, Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tanya R McKitrick
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Chao Gao
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Akul Y Mehta
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Alyssa M McQuillan
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Robert Kardish
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Scienion US, 2640 West Medtronic Way, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | | | - Xuezheng Song
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Lenette Lu
- The Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Jamie Heimburg-Molinaro
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | | | - Galit Alter
- The Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Richard D Cummings
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, National Center for Functional Glycomics, CLS 11087 - 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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192
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Nkereuwem E, Ige OO, Yilgwan C, Jobe M, Erhart A, Bode-Thomas F. Prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in North-Central Nigeria: a school-based cross-sectional pilot study. Trop Med Int Health 2020; 25:1408-1415. [PMID: 32799403 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To present epidemiological data on rheumatic heart disease (RHD), the most common acquired heart disease in children and young adults in low- and middle-income countries, for North-Central Nigeria. METHODS In this pilot study, we conducted clinical and echocardiography screening on a cross section of randomly selected secondary schoolchildren in Jos, North-Central Nigeria, from March to September 2016. For outcome classification into borderline or definite RHD, we performed a confirmatory echocardiography using the World Heart Federation criteria for those suspected to have RHD from the screening. RESULTS A total of 417 secondary schoolchildren were screened, of whom 247 (59.2%) were female. The median age was 14 years (IQR: 13-15). Clinical screening detected 8/417 children, whereas screening echocardiography detected 42/417 suspected cases of RHD. Definitive echocardiography confirmed 9/417 with RHD corresponding to a prevalence of 21.6 per 1000 (95% CI, 6.7-36.5). All but one of the confirmed RHD cases (8/9) were borderline RHD corresponding to a prevalence of 19.2 per 1000 (95% CI, 8.3-37.5) for borderline RHD and 2.4 per 1000 (95% CI, 0.1-13.3) for definite RHD. RHD was more common in boys and cardiac auscultation missed over 50% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS This study showed a high prevalence of RHD among secondary schoolchildren in North-Central Nigeria with a vast predominance of asymptomatic borderline lesions. Larger school-based echocardiography screening using portable or handheld echocardiography aimed at early detection of subclinical RHD should be adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esin Nkereuwem
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Olukemi O Ige
- Department of Paediatrics, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria.,College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Christopher Yilgwan
- Department of Paediatrics, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria.,College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Modou Jobe
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Annette Erhart
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Fidelia Bode-Thomas
- Department of Paediatrics, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria.,College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
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193
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Claessen BE, Tang GHL, Kini AS, Sharma SK. Considerations for Optimal Device Selection in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Review. JAMA Cardiol 2020; 6:102-112. [PMID: 32902569 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2020.3682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is the most common manifestation of acquired valvular heart disease in developed countries. Several large-scale randomized clinical trials investigating the entire spectrum of patients with severe symptomatic AS from low to prohibitive risk have established transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) as a safe and effective alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement. Observations There are currently only 3 types of TAVR devices commercially available in the US, but several other valve types are undergoing clinical trials in the US. Because of fundamental differences in engineering features, each TAVR device type has specific strengths and limitations. This review aims to provide an overview of design features and clinical outcomes of various TAVR devices that are either commercially available or undergoing clinical investigation. Conclusions and Relevance Given the lack of large-scale head-to-head comparisons of various TAVR devices and the rapid development of new device iterations, there is insufficient evidence to claim superiority of one device type over another. Nonetheless, as each TAVR device has unique design characteristics, certain patient-related and anatomy-related factors may slightly favor one or several particular designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bimmer E Claessen
- Division of Cardiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.,Division of Cardiology, Noordwest Ziekenhuisgroep, Alkmaar, the Netherlands
| | - Gilbert H L Tang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Annapoorna S Kini
- Division of Cardiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Samin K Sharma
- Division of Cardiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
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194
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DZC DIAG: mobile application based on expert system to aid in the diagnosis of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Med Biol Eng Comput 2020; 58:2657-2672. [PMID: 32845437 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-020-02233-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya are epidemic diseases transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. These virus infections can be so severe to the point of bringing on mobility and neurological problems, or even death. Expert systems (ES) can be used as tools for the identification of patterns intended to solve problems in the same way as a professional specialist would. This work aimed to develop an ES in the form of an Android application to serve as a supportive tool in the diagnosis of these arboviruses. The goal is to associate the set of symptoms from a patient to a score related to the likelihood of them having these diseases. To make this possible, we implemented a rule-based ES which considers the presence of symptoms itself and the relation between them to associate the case under analysis to others found in the literature. We performed 96 tests (32 for each illness), and our system had a success rate of 96.88%. Resident physicians of a public hospital also analyzed these clinical cases and achieved an average success rate of 72.92%. Comparing the results of the method proposed and errors made by health professionals, we showed an improvement in the effectiveness of clinical diagnoses. Graphical abstract Figure - DZC DIAG Operating Flowchart: the physicians record patients' data and answer a series of questions related to the patient's symptoms; after all the questions, the result is generated by the expert system (score for dengue, Zika, and chikungunya); and it is saved in the same device where the test was done and uploaded online to a FTP.
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195
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Development and Evaluation of a New Triplex Immunoassay That Detects Group A Streptococcus Antibodies for the Diagnosis of Rheumatic Fever. J Clin Microbiol 2020; 58:JCM.00300-20. [PMID: 32461283 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00300-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Streptococcal serology is a cornerstone in the diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), a postinfectious sequela associated with group A Streptococcus infection. Current tests that measure anti-streptolysin O (ASO) and anti-DNaseB (ADB) titers require parallel processing, with their predictive value limited by the low rate of decay in antibody response. Accordingly, our objective was to develop and assess the diagnostic potential of a triplex bead-based assay, which simultaneously quantifies ASO and ADB together with titers for a third antigen, SpnA. Our previous cytometric bead assay was transferred to the clinically appropriate Luminex platform by coupling streptolysin O, DNaseB, and SpnA to spectrally unique magnetic beads. Sera from more than 350 subjects, including 97 ARF patients, were used to validate the assay and explore immunokinetics. Operating parameters demonstrate that the triplex assay produces accurate and reproducible antibody titers which, for ASO and ADB, are highly correlative with existing assay methodology. When ARF patients were stratified by time (days following hospital admission), there was no difference in ASO and ADB between <28 and 28+ day groups. However, for anti-SpnA, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the 28+ day group, indicative of faster anti-SpnA antibody decay. Anti-SpnA immunokinetics support very recent group A Streptococcus infection and may assist in diagnostic classification of ARF. Further, bead-based assays enable streptococcal serology to be performed efficiently in a high-throughput manner.
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196
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Evaluating Vitamin D levels in Rheumatic Heart Disease patients and matched controls: A case-control study from Nepal. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237924. [PMID: 32822412 PMCID: PMC7444549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diagnosis and treatment for Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is inaccessible for many of the 33 million people in low and middle income countries living with this disease. More knowledge about risk factors and pathophysiologic mechanisms involved is needed in order to prevent disease and optimize treatment. This study investigated risk factors in a Nepalese population, with a special focus on Vitamin D deficiency because of its immunomodulatory effects. Methods Ninety-nine patients with confirmed RHD diagnosis and 97 matched, cardiac-healthy controls selected by echocardiography were recruited from hospitals in the Central and Western region of Nepal. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were assessed using dried blood spots and anthropometric values measured to evaluate nutritional status. Conditional logistic regression analysis was used to define association between vitamin D deficiency and RHD. Results The mean age of RHD patients was 31 years (range 9–70) and for healthy controls 32 years (range 9–65), with a 4:1 female to male ratio. Vitamin D levels were lower than expected in both RDH and controls. RHD patients had lower vitamin D levels than controls with a mean s-25(OH)D concentration of 39 nmol/l (range 8.7–89.4) compared with controls 45 nmol/l (range 14.5–86.7) (p-value = 0.02). People with Vitamin D insufficiency had a higher risk (OR = 2.59; 95% CI: 1.04–6.50) of also having RHD compared to people with Vitamin D concentrations >50 nmol/l. Body mass index was significantly lower in RHD patients (22.6; 95% CI, 21.5–23.2) compared to controls (24.2; 95% CI, 23.3–25.1). Conclusion RHD patients in Nepal have lower Vitamin D levels and overall poor nutritional status compared to the non-RHD controls. Longitudinal studies are needed to explore the causality between RHD and vitamin D level. Future research is also recommended among Nepali general population to confirm the low level of vitamin D as reported in our control group.
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Ghamrawy A, Ibrahim NN, Abd El-Wahab EW. How accurate is the diagnosis of rheumatic fever in Egypt? Data from the national rheumatic heart disease prevention and control program (2006-2018). PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008558. [PMID: 32804953 PMCID: PMC7451991 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) as a chronic sequela of repeated episodes of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), remains a cause of cardiac morbidity in Egypt although it is given full attention through a national RHD prevention and control program. The present report reviews our experience with subjects presenting with ARF or its sequelae in a single RHD centre and describes the disease pattern over the last decade. A cross-sectional study was conducted in El-Mahalla RHD centre between 2006 and 2018. A total of 17014 individual were enrolled and evaluated. Diagnosis ARF was based on the 2015 revised Jones criteria and RHD was ruled in by echocardiography. The majority of the screened subjects were female (63.2%), in the age group 5-15 years (64.6%), rural residents (61.2%), had primary education (43.0%), and of low socioeconomic standard (50.2%). The total percentage of cases presenting with ARF sequelae was 29.3% [carditis/RHD (10.8%), rheumatic arthritis (Rh.A) (14.9%), and Sydenham's chorea (0.05%)]. Noticeably, 72% were free of any cardiac insult, of which 37.7% were victims of misdiagnoses made elsewhere by untrained practitioners who prescribed for them long term injectable long-acting penicillin [Benzathine Penicillin G (BPG)] without need. About 54% of the study cohort reported the occurrence of recurrent attacks of tonsillitis of which 65.2% underwent tonsillectomy. Among those who experienced tonsillectomy and/or received BPG in the past, 14.5% and 22.3% respectively had eventually developed RHD. Screening of family members of some RHD cases who needed cardiac surgery revealed 20.7% with undiagnosed ARF sequalae [RHD (56.0%) and Rh.A (52.2%)]. Upon the follow-up of RHD cases, 1.2% had improved, 98.4% were stable and 0.4% had their heart condition deteriorated. Misdiagnosis of ARF or its sequelae and poor compliance with BPG use may affect efforts being exerted to curtail the disease. Updating national guidelines, capacity building, and reliance on appropriate investigations should be emphasized. Since the genetic basis of RHD is literally confirmed, a family history of RHD warrants screening of all family members for early detection of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Ghamrawy
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nermeen N. Ibrahim
- Department of Epidemiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ekram W. Abd El-Wahab
- Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- * E-mail:
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198
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Brown J, Robusto B, Morel L. Intestinal Dysbiosis and Tryptophan Metabolism in Autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1741. [PMID: 32849620 PMCID: PMC7417361 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of autoimmunity involves complex interactions between genetics and environmental triggers. The gut microbiota is an important environmental constituent that can heavily influence both local and systemic immune reactivity through distinct mechanisms. It is therefore a relevant environmental trigger or amplifier to consider in autoimmunity. This review will examine recent evidence for an association between intestinal dysbiosis and autoimmune diseases, and the mechanisms by which the gut microbiota may contribute to autoimmune activation. We will specifically focus on recent studies connecting tryptophan metabolism to autoimmune disease pathogenesis and discuss evidence for a microbial origin. This will be discussed in the context of our current understanding of how tryptophan metabolites regulate immune responses, and how it may, or may not, be applicable to autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Brown
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Brian Robusto
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Laurence Morel
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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199
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El-Khatib LA, De Feijter-Rupp H, Janoudi A, Fry L, Kehdi M, Abela GS. Cholesterol induced heart valve inflammation and injury: efficacy of cholesterol lowering treatment. Open Heart 2020; 7:e001274. [PMID: 32747455 PMCID: PMC7402193 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2020-001274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart valves often undergo a degenerative process leading to mechanical dysfunction that requires valve replacement. This process has been compared with atherosclerosis because of shared pathology and risk factors. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of inflammation triggered by cholesterol infiltration and cholesterol crystals formation causing mechanical and biochemical injury in heart valves. METHODS Human and atherosclerotic rabbit heart valves were evaluated. New Zealand White male rabbits were fed an enriched cholesterol diet alone or with simvastatin and ezetimibe simultaneous or after 6 months of initiating cholesterol diet. Inflammation was measured using C-reactive protein (CRP) and RAM 11 of tissue macrophage content. Cholesterol crystal presence and content in valves was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS Cholesterol diet alone induced cholesterol infiltration of valves with associated increased inflammation. Tissue cholesterol, CRP levels and RAM 11 were significantly lower in simvastatin and ezetimibe rabbit groups compared with cholesterol diet alone. However, the treatment was effective only when initiated with a cholesterol diet but not after lipid infiltration in valves. Aortic valve cholesterol content was significantly greater than all other cardiac valves. Extensive amounts of cholesterol crystals were noted in rabbit valves on cholesterol diet and in diseased human valves. CONCLUSIONS Prevention of valve infiltration with cholesterol and reduced inflammation by simvastatin and ezetimibe was effective only when given during the initiation of high cholesterol diet but was not effective when given following infiltration of cholesterol into the valve matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather De Feijter-Rupp
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Abed Janoudi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Levi Fry
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Michael Kehdi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - George S Abela
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Physiology, Division of Pathology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Agenson T, Katzenellenbogen JM, Seth R, Dempsey K, Anderson M, Wade V, Bond-Smith D. Case Ascertainment on Australian Registers for Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E5505. [PMID: 32751527 PMCID: PMC7432403 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In Australia, disease registers for acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) were previously established to facilitate disease surveillance and control, yet little is known about the extent of case-ascertainment. We compared ARF/RHD case ascertainment based on Australian ARF/RHD register records with administrative hospital data from the Northern Territory (NT), South Australia (SA), Queensland (QLD) and Western Australia (WA) for cases 3-59 years of age. Agreement across data sources was compared for persons with an ARF episode or first-ever RHD diagnosis. ARF/RHD registers from the different jurisdictions were missing 26% of Indigenous hospitalised ARF/RHD cases overall (ranging 17-40% by jurisdiction) and 10% of non-Indigenous hospitalised ARF/RHD cases (3-28%). The proportion of hospitalised RHD cases (36%) was half the proportion of hospitalised ARF cases (70%) notified to the ARF/RHD registers. The registers were found to capture few RHD cases in metropolitan areas (SA Metro: 13%, QLD Metro: 35%, WA Metro: 14%). Indigenous status, older age, comorbidities, drug/alcohol abuse and disease severity were predictors of cases appearing in the hospital data only (p < 0.05); sex was not a determinant. This analysis confirms that there are biases associated with the epidemiological analysis of single sources of case ascertainment for ARF/RHD using Australian data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Treasure Agenson
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (T.A.); (J.M.K.); (R.S.)
| | - Judith M. Katzenellenbogen
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (T.A.); (J.M.K.); (R.S.)
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Rebecca Seth
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (T.A.); (J.M.K.); (R.S.)
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Karen Dempsey
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia; (K.D.); (V.W.)
| | | | - Vicki Wade
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia; (K.D.); (V.W.)
| | - Daniela Bond-Smith
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (T.A.); (J.M.K.); (R.S.)
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