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Fijolek J, Radzikowska E. Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis - Advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1145257. [PMID: 37215720 PMCID: PMC10193253 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1145257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare disease characterized by eosinophil-rich granulomatous inflammation and necrotizing vasculitis, pre-dominantly affecting small-to-medium-sized vessels. It is categorized as a primary antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAVs) but also shares features of hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES); therefore, both vessel inflammation and eosinophilic infiltration are suggested to cause organ damage. This dual nature of the disease causes variable clinical presentation. As a result, careful differentiation from mimicking conditions is needed, especially from HES, given the overlapping clinical, radiologic, and histologic features, and biomarker profile. EGPA also remains a diagnostic challenge, in part because of asthma, which may pre-dominate for years, and often requires chronic corticosteroids (CS), which can mask other disease features. The pathogenesis is still not fully understood, however, the interaction between eosinophils and lymphocytes B and T seems to play an important role. Furthermore, the role of ANCA is not clear, and only up to 40% of patients are ANCA-positive. Moreover, two ANCA-dependent clinically and genetically distinct subgroups have been identified. However, a gold standard test for establishing a diagnosis is not available. In practice, the disease is mainly diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms and results of non-invasive tests. The unmet needs include uniform diagnostic criteria and biomarkers to help distinguish EGPA from HESs. Despite its rarity, notable progress has been made in understanding the disease and in its management. A better understanding of the pathophysiology has provided new insights into the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets, which are reflected in novel biological agents. However, there remains an ongoing reliance on corticosteroid therapy. Therefore, there is a significant need for more effective and better-tolerated steroid-sparing treatment schemes.
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Cottin V. Eosinophilic Lung Diseases. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2023; 43:289-322. [PMID: 37055090 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2023.01.002] [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: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The eosinophilic lung diseases may manifest as chronic eosinophilic pneumonia, acute eosinophilic pneumonia, or as the Löffler syndrome (generally of parasitic etiology). The diagnosis of eosinophilic pneumonia is made when both characteristic clinical-imaging features and alveolar eosinophilia are present. Peripheral blood eosinophils are generally markedly elevated; however, eosinophilia may be absent at presentation. Lung biopsy is not indicated except in atypical cases after multidisciplinary discussion. The inquiry to possible causes (medications, toxic drugs, exposures, and infections especially parasitic) must be meticulous. Idiopathic acute eosinophilic pneumonia may be misdiagnosed as infectious pneumonia. Extrathoracic manifestations raise the suspicion of a systemic disease especially eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Airflow obstruction is frequent in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and hypereosinophilic obliterative bronchiolitis. Corticosteroids are the cornerstone of therapy, but relapses are common. Therapies targeting interleukin 5/interleukin-5 are increasingly used in eosinophilic lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Cottin
- Service de pneumologie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Louis Pradel, Centre de référence coordonnateur des maladies pulmonaires rares (OrphaLung), 28 Avenue Doyen Lepine, Lyon Cedex 69677, France; Université Lyon 1, INRAE, UMR754, Lyon, France.
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Clark SM, Parker AM, Ataya A. A 31-Year-Old Man With Asthma, Chest Discomfort, and Shortness of Breath. Chest 2022; 161:e209-e212. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2021.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Al Umairi RS, Al Manei K, Al Lawati F, Al Mahrouqi Y, Al Balushi F. Cardiac Involvement in Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss Disease): The role of cardiovascular magnetic resonance. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2021; 21:644-647. [PMID: 34888088 PMCID: PMC8631216 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.4.2021.038] [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: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), previously known as Churg-Strauss disease, is a rare vasculitis that affects small- to medium-sized vessels and has a propensity to involve the heart. Patients with cardiac involvement have a poor prognosis and usually require immunosuppressive treatment along with corticosteroids. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool for detecting cardiac involvement and guiding the management plan. We report a 39-year-old male patient with a known history of bronchial asthma who was referred to the chest clinic at a tertiary hospital in 2019 for further assessment of persistent lung parenchymal changes on chest computed tomography. Given the clinical context of the patient and the radiological findings, EGPA was suspected and confirmed with a lung biopsy. CMR was performed for further assessment, which confirmed cardiac involvement. The patient was started on prednisolone and azathioprine and showed significant radiological and clinical improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khalid Al Manei
- Department of Radiology, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Oman
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Blumetti L, De Perna ML, Reinehr M, Pedrazzini G. Eosinophilic perimyocarditis associated with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis: a case report. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL-CASE REPORTS 2021; 5:ytab399. [PMID: 34738066 PMCID: PMC8564711 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcr/ytab399] [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: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Eosinophilic myocarditis (EM) is a rare and potentially life-threatening form of myocarditis, frequently (but not always) associated with eosinophilia, and presents with acute chest pain, or signs and symptoms of acute or chronic heart failure. Eosinophilic myocarditis has various aetiologies, including eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). Case summary A 52-year-old female with a long-standing history of asthma, acral paraesthesia, subcutaneous nodules, and recurrent chest pain treated with anti-inflammatory drugs was admitted to our hospital with chest pain, repolarization disturbances, eosinophilia, and increased troponin levels. After an initial evaluation by coronary angiography, echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance, a definitive diagnosis of EM was made with the help of an endomyocardial biopsy. The aetiological diagnosis of EM as a manifestation of tissue involvement in EGPA was concluded after ruling out other possible causes of eosinophilia and with the help of other diagnostic criteria for EGPA (asthma, eosinophilia, and neuropathy). Therefore, we started with a high dosage of glucocorticoids, and attained relief of symptoms and normalization of eosinophilic count after a few days. Discussion In cases of myocarditis (particularly if associated with eosinophilia), EM is a manifestation of EGPA and should be considered for a prompt differential diagnosis. Endomyocardial biopsy represents the gold standard for the diagnosis of EM. The mainstay of therapy for EM is immunosuppressive drugs to help prevent its evolution to a fulminant form and chronic progression towards restrictive cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Blumetti
- Cardiocentro Ticino Institute, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Via Tesserete 48, CH-6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Maria Luisa De Perna
- Cardiocentro Ticino Institute, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Via Tesserete 48, CH-6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Michael Reinehr
- Cardiocentro Ticino Institute, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Via Tesserete 48, CH-6900 Lugano, Switzerland.,Institut für Pathologie und Molekularpathologie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Rämistrasse 100 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Pedrazzini
- Cardiocentro Ticino Institute, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Via Tesserete 48, CH-6900 Lugano, Switzerland
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Springer JM, Kalot MA, Husainat NM, Byram KW, Dua AB, James KE, Chang Lin Y, Turgunbaev M, Villa-Forte A, Abril A, Langford CA, Maz M, Chung SA, Mustafa RA. Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Test Accuracy and Benefits and Harms of Common Treatments. ACR Open Rheumatol 2021; 3:101-110. [PMID: 33512787 PMCID: PMC7882521 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is part of a group of vasculitides commonly referred to as antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)–associated vasculitis (AAV), in addition to granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and renal‐limited vasculitis. Patients with EGPA characteristically have asthma and marked peripheral eosinophilia with only approximately 30% to 35% of patients being myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐ANCA positive, distinguishing it from other forms of AAV (1,2). The aim of this systematic review is to support the development of the American College of Rheumatology/Vasculitis Foundation guideline for the management of EGPA. Methods A systematic review was conducted of the literature for seven forms of primary systemic vasculitis (GPA, MPA, EGPA, polyarteritis nodosa, Kawasaki disease, giant cell arteritis, and Takayasu arteritis). The search was done for articles in English using Ovid Medline, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Articles were screened for suitability in addressing population/patients, intervention, comparator, and outcomes (PICO) questions, with studies presenting the highest level of evidence given preference. Two independent reviewers conducted a title/abstract screen and full‐text review for each eligible study. Results The initial search, conducted in August 2019, included 13 800 articles, of which 2596 full‐text articles were reviewed. There were 190 articles (addressing 34 PICO questions) reporting on the diagnosis and management of EGPA. Conclusion This comprehensive systematic review synthesizes and evaluates the accuracy of commonly used tests for EGPA as well as benefits and toxicities of different treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anisha B Dua
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mehrdad Maz
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
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Myocardial involvement in eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis evaluated with cardiopulmonary magnetic resonance. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2020; 37:1371-1381. [PMID: 33211241 PMCID: PMC8026437 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-020-02091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Patients with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) most commonly die from cardiac causes, however, cardiac involvement remains poorly characterised and the relationship between cardiac and pulmonary disease is not known. This study aimed to characterise myocardial and pulmonary manifestations of EGPA, and their relationship. Prospective comprehensive cardiopulmonary investigation, including a novel combined cardiopulmonary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology, was performed in 13 patients with stable EGPA. Comparison was made with 11 prospectively recruited matched healthy volunteers. Stable EGPA was associated with focal replacement and diffuse interstitial myocardial fibrosis (myocardial extracellular volume 26.9% vs. 24.7%; p = 0.034), which drove a borderline increase in left ventricular mass (56 ± 9 g/m2 vs. 49 ± 8 g/m2; p = 0.065). Corrected QT interval was significantly prolonged and was associated with the severity of myocardial fibrosis (r = 0.582, p = 0.037). Stable EGPA was not associated with increased myocardial capillary permeability or myocardial oedema. Pulmonary tissue perfusion and capillary permeability were normal and there was no evidence of pulmonary tissue oedema or fibrosis. Forced expiratory volume in one second showed a strong inverse relationship with myocardial fibrosis (r = -0.783, p = 0.038). In this exploratory study, stable EGPA was associated with focal replacement and diffuse interstitial myocardial fibrosis, but no evidence of myocardial or pulmonary inflammation or pulmonary fibrosis. Myocardial fibrosis was strongly associated with airway obstruction and abnormal cardiac repolarisation. Further investigation is required to determine the mechanisms underlying the association between heart and lung disease in EGPA and whether an immediate immunosuppressive strategy could prevent myocardial fibrosis formation.
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Sanchez F, Gutierrez JM, Kha LC, Jimenez-Juan L, Cool C, Vargas D, Oikonomou A. Pathological entities that may affect the lungs and the myocardium. Evaluation with chest CT and cardiac MR. Clin Imaging 2020; 70:124-135. [PMID: 33157369 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2020.10.038] [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] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Certain entities may simultaneously involve the lungs and the myocardium. Knowing their cardiac and thoracic manifestations enhances the understanding of those conditions and increases awareness and suspicion for possible concurrent cardiothoracic involvement. Entities that can present with pulmonary and myocardial involvement include infiltrative diseases like sarcoidosis and amyloidosis, eosinophil-associated conditions including eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) and hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES), connective tissue diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc) and lupus erythematosus and genetic disorders like Fabry disease (FD). Lung involvement in sarcoidosis is almost universal. While cardiac involvement is less common, concurrent cardiothoracic involvement can often be seen. Pulmonary amyloidosis is more often a localized process and generally occurs separately from cardiac involvement, except for diffuse alveolar-septal amyloidosis. EGPA and HES can present with consolidative or ground glass opacities, cardiac inflammation and endomyocardial fibrosis. Manifestations of SSc include interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension and cardiomyopathy. Lupus can present with serositis, pneumonitis and cardiac inflammation. FD causes left ventricular thickening and fibrosis, and small airways disease. This article aims to review the clinicopathological features of chest and cardiac involvement of these entities and describe their main findings on chest CT and cardiac MR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Sanchez
- University of Toronto - Toronto General Hospital, Department of Medical Imaging, 585 University Ave., Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada.
| | - Jose M Gutierrez
- Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau, Department of Medical Imaging, Gran Avenida Jose Miguel Carrera 3204, Santiago 8431657, Chile
| | - Lan-Chau Kha
- University of Toronto - Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Department of Medical Imaging, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada.
| | - Laura Jimenez-Juan
- University of Toronto- St. Michael's Hospital, Department of Medical Imaging, 30 Bond St., Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada.
| | - Carlyne Cool
- University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pathology, 12605 East 16th Avenue, Campus Box F768, Aurora, CO 80045, United States of America
| | - Daniel Vargas
- University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Radiology, Leprino Building, 5th Floor, 12401 E. 17th Ave., Mail Stop L954, Aurora, CO 80045, United States of America.
| | - Anastasia Oikonomou
- University of Toronto - Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Department of Medical Imaging, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada.
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Koh E, Kang N, Lee JY, Kim DK, Do YS, Lee BJ, Choi DC. Multiple hepatic aneurysms and dry gangrene of fingertips in eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis: a case report. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2020; 16:90. [PMID: 33072160 PMCID: PMC7559129 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-020-00484-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a systemic necrotizing vasculitis mainly affecting small-sized arteries. Involvement of medium-sized vessels is very rare in EGPA. Here we present the case of a patient with EGPA who showed multiple hepatic aneurysms and distal gangrene. Case presentation A known EGPA patient visited to the emergency room (ER) with abrupt squeezing abdominal pain. She had suffered from gangrene in the fingertips of both hands for 1 year because of arterial thrombosis associated with hypereosinophilia. However, her absolute eosinophil count in the ER was 1120 cells/µL. An abdomen-pelvis CT demonstrated subcapsular hematoma in the right hepatic lobe. A celiac angiogram demonstrated multiple sized aneurysms in both hepatic lobes and some aneurysms in S7 and S8 were huge, more than 1 cm in size. The shape of the small aneurysms resembled a string of beads, as in polyarteritis nodosa. Given the clinical situation, emergency embolization was performed. Before this patient visited to the ER, she had been treated with a high dose of systemic corticosteroid, azathioprine, and cyclophosphamide. After addition of mepolizumab, the eosinophil count remained stable state with a near zero percentage of total white blood cell count. Conclusions Aneurysm and gangrene resulting from the involvement of medium-sized vessels can occur in EGPA. Destruction of vessels might occur even if eosinophil count is below 1500 cells/µL. If involvement of medium-sized arteries is suspected, thorough investigation to identify the involved organs and prompt management are needed to prevent fatal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsil Koh
- Departments of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Noeul Kang
- Departments of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Young Lee
- Health Promotion Center, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Duk-Kyung Kim
- Departments of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Soo Do
- Departments of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Jae Lee
- Departments of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Chull Choi
- Departments of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Sridharan S, Nanthakumaran S, Somagutta MR, Pagad S, Arnold AA, May V, Malik BH. The Critical Role of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Evaluating Patients With Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis. Cureus 2020; 12:e10279. [PMID: 33042714 PMCID: PMC7538204 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.10279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare autoimmune systemic necrotizing vasculitis of blood vessels that often presents with hypereosinophilia. Cardiac involvement in EGPA directly correlates with the mortality of patients with the disease and is a central part of the disease process. The evaluation and treatment of cardiac anomalies are vital in patients with EGPA. The frequency with which cardiac involvement is seen in the disease process makes early diagnosis crucial in all patients with EGPA. Early treatment has been proven to reverse or cause the disease to go into remission. Several studies have shown that cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is the most sensitive and best early indicator of cardiovascular involvement in EGPA. CMR routinely outperforms other diagnostic techniques such as ECG (echocardiography) and CTA (computed tomography angiography) in the detection of cardiac anomalies and should be a part of the standardized assessment of all patients with EGPA. CMR is also a non-invasive diagnostic tool that can also outperform biopsy in the detection of EGPA cardiac involvement. CMR is also a valuable technique that can be used to monitor disease progression while treatment is being performed. Although long-term research studies have yet to show these benefits, the studies that are available today provide ample evidence that shows CMR imaging could ultimately help bring down mortality rates currently seen in EGPA patients if it is used as an evaluation tool from initial diagnosis and throughout the entire course of disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saijanakan Sridharan
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Saruja Nanthakumaran
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Manoj R Somagutta
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sukrut Pagad
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ashley A Arnold
- Surgery, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Vanessa May
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Bilal Haider Malik
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Mavrogeni SI, Dimitroulas T, Kitas GD. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance in the diagnosis and management of cardiac and vascular involvement in the systemic vasculitides. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2020; 31:16-24. [PMID: 30407225 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cardiac manifestations in systemic vasculitides, either primary or secondary due to infection, malignancy or autoimmune rheumatic diseases may be life-threatening. Cardiovascular (CVD) magnetic resonance (CMR) has been recently proposed as an ideal noninvasive tool to evaluate systemic vasculitides. In the present article, we present an overview of CMR in the diagnosis and follow-up of cardiac involvement in systemic vasculitides. RECENT FINDINGS CMR is a noninvasive, nonradiating modality, capable to assess cardiac function, perfusion and tissue characterization that can be of great diagnostic value in both primary and secondary systemic vasculitides. It has been already documented that CMR is superior to other imaging modalities, because it has great versatility and higher spatial resolution that allows the detection of early CVD phenomena occurring during systemic vasculitides. Magnetic resonance angiography and oedema-fibrosis imaging detect early CVD involvement such as acute and/or chronic inflammation, coronary macro-micro-circulation abnormalities and/or small vessel vasculitis. SUMMARY CMR due to its great versatility gives valuable information about cardiac function, perfusion, type of fibrosis and vascular integrity that may significantly contribute to treatment decisions beyond vascular scores, other disease activity or severity indices or the acute phase response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - George D Kitas
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
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Gill JS, Fontana M, Knight D, Kalra SS. A case report of eosinophilic granulomatosis and polyangiitis myocarditis presenting as ST elevation myocardial infarction and showing positive response to immunotherapy. Eur Heart J Case Rep 2019; 3:1-6. [PMID: 34109285 PMCID: PMC8183649 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcr/ytz161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a medical emergency and is most commonly due to atherosclerotic plaque rupture and occlusion of coronary vessels. This case demonstrates that eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) myocarditis can mimic acute STEMI. CASE SUMMARY A 44-year-old woman presented with acute chest pain, shortness of breath, and collapse with ST elevation on electrocardiography. Coronary angiogram showed unobstructed coronaries and chest film revealed left-sided consolidation. Together with a thorough history, serum eosinophilia, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and computated tomography imaging, the patient was diagnosed with acute EGPA myocarditis. She responded tremendously to steroid and cyclophosphamide immunosuppression and subsequent CMR imaging demonstrated complete resolution of myocarditis. DISCUSSION CMR played a crucial role in the diagnosis and follow-up of this rare presentation. In patients who present as a STEMI but show unobstructed coronary vessels, EGPA may be a possible diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaspal Singh Gill
- Cardiology Department, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Marianna Fontana
- Cardiology Department, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Daniel Knight
- Cardiology Department, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK
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Sakuta K, Miyagawa S, Suzuki K, Yaguchi H. Rapid Disappearance of Intraventricular Mobile Structures with Steroids in Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2019; 28:104326. [PMID: 31422006 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2019.104326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Endomyocarditis in Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare complication, commonly involving an apical mass compatible with a thrombus. However, no previous report has discussed mobile structures detected by echocardiography in a patient with EGPA. A 53-year-old man with asthma presented with low-grade fever, consciousness disturbance, and vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging showed multiple acute infarctions in the bilateral cerebrum and cerebellum. Remarkable eosinophilia was observed, and transthoracic echocardiography showed multiple mobile structures originating from the left ventricular septum. The day after admission, he developed left partial hemianopia and intracranial hemorrhage was identified in his right occipital lobe. Skin biopsy showed infiltration of eosinophils in the arterial wall, and we diagnosed EGPA. Myocardial biopsy was performed from the right ventricular wall, and eosinophilic infiltration into the endocardium and myocardium was observed. Endomyocarditis secondary to EGPA was confirmed, and steroid therapy was immediately initiated. Ten days after steroid therapy, the mobile structures in the left ventricle disappeared completely. He suffered no recurrence of stroke with continued steroid therapy. Mobile structures in the left ventricle in patients with active EGPA could be treated conservatively with steroid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Sakuta
- Department of Neurology, Kashiwa Hospital, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Shinji Miyagawa
- Department of Neurology, Kashiwa Hospital, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Suzuki
- Department of Cardiology, Kashiwa Hospital, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yaguchi
- Department of Neurology, Kashiwa Hospital, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
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Guterbaum TJ, Husic M, Voss A, Dahl JS. Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Associated Vasculitis Causes Aortic Valve Degeneration and Severe Aortic Regurgitation. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2019; 20:423-429. [PMID: 30930460 PMCID: PMC6454581 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.912693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA)/Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA)/Churg-Strauss' syndrome (CSS) are ANCA (antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) associated vasculitides that can affect the heart, predominantly the myocardium. Valvular affection is rare and is described anecdotally. The purpose of this case report was to present aortic valve affection of an ANCA positive vasculitis. CASE REPORT We present the case with a 56-year-old male diagnosed with ANCA associated vasculitis, who began experiencing respiratory symptoms primarily thought to be respiratory tract affection. These symptoms worsened, and an echocardiography revealed heart failure with decreased left ventricular ejections fraction (EF=30-35%) and a severe insufficiency of the aortic valve. The patient underwent aortic valve replacement with symptomatic relief. Pathological examination of aortic valve resectates revealed inflammation and thickening of the aortic cusps. CONCLUSIONS Patients with ANCA associated vasculitis can rarely present with valvular inflammation causing severe regurgitation. The aortic valve can be involved, although cases have also described mitral valve involvement and both valves simultaneously. In patients with ANCA associated vasculitis a severe worsening of dyspnea can be caused by exacerbation of pulmonary involvement, but severe valvular disease should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mirza Husic
- Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, Svendborg, Denmark
| | - Anne Voss
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Can cardiovascular magnetic resonance prompt early cardiovascular/rheumatic treatment in autoimmune rheumatic diseases? Current practice and future perspectives. Rheumatol Int 2018. [PMID: 29516170 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-018-4004-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Life expectancy in autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) remains lower compared to the general population, due to various comoborbidities. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the main contributor to premature mortality. Conventional and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) have considerably improved long-term outcomes in ARDs not only by suppressing systemic inflammation but also by lowering CVD burden. Regarding atherosclerotic disease prevention, EULAR has recommended tight disease control accompanied by regular assessment of traditional CVD risk factors and lifestyle changes. However, this approach, although rational and evidence-based, does not account for important issues such as myocardial inflammation and the long asymptomatic period that usually proceeds clinical manifestations of CVD disease in ARDs before or after the diagnosis of systemic disease. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) can offer reliable, reproducible and operator independent information regarding myocardial inflammation, ischemia and fibrosis. Some studies suggest a role for CMR in the risk stratification of ARDs and demonstrate that oedema/fibrosis visualisation with CMR may have the potential to inform cardiac and rheumatic treatment modification in ARDs with or without abnormal routine cardiac evaluation. In this review, we discuss how CMR findings could influence anti-rheumatic treatment decisions targeting optimal control of both systemic and myocardial inflammation irrespective of clinical manifestations of cardiac disease. CMR can provide a different approach that is very promising for risk stratification and treatment modification; however, further studies are needed before the inclusion of CMR in the routine evaluation and treatment of patients with ARDs.
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17
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d'Ersu E, Ribi C, Monney P, Vincenti G, Schwitter J, Rotman S, Hullin R, Regamey J. Churg-Strauss syndrome with cardiac involvement: case illustration and contribution of CMR in the diagnosis and clinical follow-up. Int J Cardiol 2018; 258:321-324. [PMID: 29459042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
This report summarises three cases of Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) illustrating the diagnostic challenges associated with the cardiac manifestation of this disease. Here, we illustrate the role of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) for diagnosis and follow-up of CSS with a focus on new non-contrast T2-weighted imaging sequences for quantification of myocardial scar tissue and quantitative T2 mapping techniques, which allow the detection of myocardial edema.
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Affiliation(s)
- E d'Ersu
- Service de cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland. Eleanor.d'
| | - C Ribi
- Service d'immunologie et allergie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
| | - P Monney
- Service de cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
| | - G Vincenti
- Service de cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
| | - J Schwitter
- Service de cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
| | - S Rotman
- Service de pathologie clinique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
| | - R Hullin
- Service de cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
| | - J Regamey
- Service de cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Switzerland
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18
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Echocardiographic features in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis within 3 months before and after diagnosis. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 36:2751-2759. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3868-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Hur JH, Chun EJ, Kwag HJ, Yoo JY, Kim HY, Kim JJ, Lee KW. CT Features of Vasculitides Based on the 2012 International Chapel Hill Consensus Conference Revised Classification. Korean J Radiol 2017; 18:786-798. [PMID: 28860896 PMCID: PMC5552462 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2017.18.5.786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasculitis, characterized by inflammation of vessel walls, is comprised of heterogeneous clinicopathological entities, and thus poses a diagnostic challenge. The most widely used approach for classifying vasculitides is based on the International Chapel Hill Consensus Conference (CHCC) nomenclature system. Based on the recently revised CHCC 2012, we propose computed tomography (CT) features of vasculitides and a differential diagnosis based on location and morphological characteristics. Finally, vasculitis mimics should be differentiated, because erroneous application of immunosuppressive drugs on vasculitis mimics may be ineffective, even deteriorating. This article presents the utility of CT in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of vasculitides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Hye Hur
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Eun Ju Chun
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Hyon Joo Kwag
- Department of Radiology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Korea
| | - Jin Young Yoo
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Hae Young Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Jeong Jae Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Kyung Won Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
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Reiber JHC, De Sutter J, Schoenhagen P, Stillman AE, Vande Veire NRL. Cardiovascular imaging 2016 in the International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2017; 33:761-770. [PMID: 28315986 PMCID: PMC5406479 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-017-1111-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johan H C Reiber
- Department of Radiology, Division of Image Processing, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Johan De Sutter
- Department of Cardiology, AZ Maria Middelares Gent and University Gent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Schoenhagen
- Department of Radiology, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Arthur E Stillman
- Department of Radiology, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nico R L Vande Veire
- Department of Cardiology, AZ Maria Middelares Gent and Free University Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Mavrogeni S, Markousis-Mavrogenis G, Koutsogeorgopoulou L, Dimitroulas T, Bratis K, Kitas GD, Sfikakis P, Tektonidou M, Karabela G, Stavropoulos E, Katsifis G, Boki KA, Kitsiou A, Filaditaki V, Gialafos E, Plastiras S, Vartela V, Kolovou G. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging pattern at the time of diagnosis of treatment naïve patients with connective tissue diseases. Int J Cardiol 2017; 236:151-156. [PMID: 28185705 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.01.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND-AIM Cardiac involvement at diagnosis of connective tissue disease (CTD) has been described by echocardiography. We hypothesized that cardio-vascular magnetic resonance (CMR) detects occult lesions at CTD diagnosis. PATIENTS-METHODS CMR was performed early after diagnosis in 78 treatment-naïve CTDs (aged 43±11, 59F/19M) without cardiac involvement [5 Takayasu arteritis (TA), 4 Churg Strauss syndrome (CSS), 5 Wegener granulomatosis (WG), 16 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 12 rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 8 mixed connective tissue diseases (MCTD), 12 ankylosing spondylitis (AS), 3 polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), 8 systemic sclerosis (SSc) and 5 dermatomyositis (DM)]. Acute and chronic lesions were assessed by T2>2 with positive LGE and T2<2 with positive LGE, respectively. RESULTS In 3/5 TA, 3/4 CSS, 4/5 WG, 10/16 SLE, 9/12 RA, 6/8 MCTD, 4/12 AS, 1/3 PMR, 2/8 SSc and 2/5 DM, the T2 ratio was higher compared to normal (2.78±0.25 vs 1.5±0.2, p<0.01). Myocarditis was identified in 1 TA, 1 SLE, 1 RA, 1 SSc and 2 DM patients; diffuse, subendocardial fibrosis in 1 CSS and 1 RA patient, while subendocardial myocardial infarction in 3 SLE, 1 MCTD, 1 PMR and 2 RA patients. CMR re-evaluation after 6 and 12months of rheumatic and cardiac treatment, available in 28/52 CTDs with increased T2 ratio, showed significant improvement in T2 ratio (p<0.001), non-significant change in LGE extent and normalisation of those with impaired LV function. CONCLUSIONS Occult CMR lesions, including oedema, myocarditis, diffuse subendocardial fibrosis and myocardial infarction are not unusual in treatment naïve CTDs and may be reversed with appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Theodoros Dimitroulas
- Department of Rheumatology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - George D Kitas
- Arthritis Research UK Epidemiology Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Petros Sfikakis
- Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Maria Tektonidou
- Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Elias Gialafos
- Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Sotiris Plastiras
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
Eosinophilic lung diseases especially comprise eosinophilic pneumonia or as the more transient Löffler syndrome, which is most often due to parasitic infections. The diagnosis of eosinophilic pneumonia is based on characteristic clinical-imaging features and the demonstration of alveolar eosinophilia, defined as at least 25% eosinophils at BAL. Peripheral blood eosinophilia is common but may be absent at presentation in idiopathic acute eosinophilic pneumonia, which may be misdiagnosed as severe infectious pneumonia. All possible causes of eosinophilia, including drug, toxin, fungus related etiologies, must be thoroughly investigated. Extrathoracic manifestations should raise the suspicion of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
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