1
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Vičić M, Marinović B. Autoimmune bullous diseases in pregnancy: an overview of pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnostics and available therapies. Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2023; 158:99-109. [PMID: 37153944 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.23.07553-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune bullous diseases (AIBDs) are rare organ-specific diseases characterized by the appearance of blisters and erosions on the skin and mucous membranes. These dermatoses are marked by the development of autoantibodies targeting the autoantigens located in intercellular junctions, i.e., between keratinocytes or in the basement membrane area. Therefore, the fundamental division of AIBDs into the pemphigus and pemphigoid groups exists. Although AIBDs are uncommon in the general population, their overall incidence is somewhat higher in women of all ages, for which a pregnant women can be likely affected too. While the pemphigoid gestationis is exclusive bullous dermatosis of pregnancy, the other AIBDs can also start or worsen during this period. The appearance of AIBDs in childbearing women is a particularly sensitive situation requiring exceptional clinicians' caution due to the possibility of pregnancy complications with adverse effects and risks to the mother and the child. Also, there are numerous management difficulties in the period of pregnancy and lactation related to the drugs' choice and safety. This paper aimed to outline the pathophysiologic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach and therapy of the most commonly recognized AIBDs in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijana Vičić
- Department of Dermatovenereology, Faculty of Medicine, Clinical Hospital Centre of Rijeka, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Branka Marinović
- Department of Dermatovenereology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Centre of Zagreb, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia -
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2
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Schreiber K, Frishman M, Russell MD, Dey M, Flint J, Allen A, Crossley A, Gayed M, Hodson K, Khamashta M, Moore L, Panchal S, Piper M, Reid C, Saxby K, Senvar N, Tosounidou S, van de Venne M, Warburton L, Williams D, Yee CS, Gordon C, Giles I, Giles I, Roddy E, Armon K, Astell L, Cotton C, Davidson A, Fordham S, Jones C, Joyce C, Kuttikat A, McLaren Z, Merrison K, Mewar D, Mootoo A, Williams E. British Society for Rheumatology guideline on prescribing drugs in pregnancy and breastfeeding: comorbidity medications used in rheumatology practice. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2022; 62:e89-e104. [PMID: 36318967 PMCID: PMC10070063 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Schreiber
- Thrombosis & Haemophilia Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust , London, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases , Sonderborg, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark , Odense, Denmark
| | - Margreta Frishman
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust , London, UK
| | - Mark D Russell
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, King’s College London , London, UK
| | - Mrinalini Dey
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool , Liverpool, UK
| | - Julia Flint
- Department of Rheumatology, Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust , Shropshire, UK
| | - Alexander Allen
- Clinical Affairs, British Society for Rheumatology , London, UK
| | | | - Mary Gayed
- Rheumatology, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust , Birmingham, UK
| | - Kenneth Hodson
- The UK Teratology Information Service , Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Munther Khamashta
- Division of Women’s Health, Lupus Research Unit, King's College London , London, UK
| | - Louise Moore
- Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Disease Unit, Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Service , Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sonia Panchal
- Rheumatology, South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust , Warwickshire, UK
| | - Madeleine Piper
- Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Royal United Hospital , Bath, UK
| | | | - Katherine Saxby
- Pharmacology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , London, UK
| | - Naz Senvar
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , London, UK
| | - Sofia Tosounidou
- Lupus UK Centre of Excellence, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust , Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Louise Warburton
- Shropshire Community NHS Trust , Shropshire, UK
- Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University , Keele, UK
| | - David Williams
- Obstetrics, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , London, UK
| | - Chee-Seng Yee
- Department of Rheumatology, Doncaster and Bassetlaw, Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Doncaster, UK
| | - Caroline Gordon
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | - Ian Giles
- Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London , London, UK
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3
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Kianfar N, Dasdar S, Mahmoudi H, Daneshpazhooh M. Burden of pemphigus vulgaris with a particular focus on women: A review. Int J Womens Dermatol 2022; 8:e056. [PMID: 36204194 PMCID: PMC9529034 DOI: 10.1097/jw9.0000000000000056] [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] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Pemphigus vulgaris is a chronic autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering disorder. Apart from the disease itself, other aspects of patients' life, including psychological, social, and financial, can be affected. Women are particularly more disposed to the impact of the disease due to their physiological characteristics, the specific periods of pregnancy and lactation as well as their social and familial role. In this review, we summarized the burden of pemphigus vulgaris on various aspects of women's lives. It is essential to understand these problems and provide appropriate support for patients with such a burdensome disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nika Kianfar
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shayan Dasdar
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Mahmoudi
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Daneshpazhooh
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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4
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Recognizing, Diagnosing, and Managing Pregnancy Dermatoses. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 140:679-695. [PMID: 36075066 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy dermatoses are inflammatory skin disorders that occur during pregnancy or immediately postpartum. This heterogenous group of disorders includes pemphigoid gestationis, polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, atopic eruption of pregnancy, and pustular psoriasis of pregnancy. In this article, we provide a comprehensive literature review of each condition focusing on nomenclature, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, maternal risk, fetal risk, and treatment. We aim to increase awareness and help clinicians recognize, diagnose, and manage these unique conditions.
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5
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Abstract
Pruritus in pregnancy is a common and burdensome symptom that may be a first sign of a pregnancy-specific pruritic disease (atopic eruption of pregnancy, polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, pemphigoid gestationis, and intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy) or a dermatosis coinciding with pregnancy by chance. Despite its high prevalence, pruritus is often underrated by physicians, and data regarding the safety profiles of drugs for pruritus are very limited. In this review, we illustrate the epidemiology, possible pathophysiology, clinical characteristics, and diagnostic workup of various pregnancy-related diseases and discuss antipruritic treatments. The prevalence of pruritus in pregnancy demonstrates the importance of symptom recognition and the need for an holistic approach, taking into account both the potential benefits for the patient and the potential risks to the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra A Stefaniak
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Von Esmarch Str 58, 48149, Münster, Germany.
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Manuel P Pereira
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Von Esmarch Str 58, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Claudia Zeidler
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Von Esmarch Str 58, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sonja Ständer
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Von Esmarch Str 58, 48149, Münster, Germany
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6
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Fagundes PPS, Santi CG, Maruta CW, Miyamoto D, Aoki V. Autoimmune bullous diseases in pregnancy: clinical and epidemiological characteristics and therapeutic approach. An Bras Dermatol 2021; 96:581-590. [PMID: 34304937 PMCID: PMC8441454 DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune bullous dermatoses are a heterogeneous group of diseases with autoantibodies against structural skin proteins. Although the occurrence of autoimmune bullous dermatoses during pregnancy is low, this topic deserves attention, since the immunological and hormonal alterations that occur during this period can produce alterations during the expected course of these dermatoses. The authors review the several aspects of autoimmune bullous dermatoses that affect pregnant women, including the therapeutic approach during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Gestational pemphigoid, a pregnancy-specific bullous disease, was not studied in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudia Giuli Santi
- Department of Dermatology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Celina Wakisaka Maruta
- Department of Dermatology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Denise Miyamoto
- Department of Dermatology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Valeria Aoki
- Department of Dermatology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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7
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Genovese G, Derlino F, Cerri A, Moltrasio C, Muratori S, Berti E, Marzano AV. A Systematic Review of Treatment Options and Clinical Outcomes in Pemphigoid Gestationis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:604945. [PMID: 33330568 PMCID: PMC7717454 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.604945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Treatment regimens for pemphigoid gestationis (PG) are non-standardized, with most evidence derived from individual case reports or small series. Objectives: To systematically review current literature on treatments and clinical outcomes of PG and to establish recommendations on its therapeutic management. Methods: An a priori protocol was designed based on PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for English-language articles detailing PG treatments and clinical outcomes, published between 1970 and March 2020. Results: In total, 109 articles including 140 PG patients were analyzed. No randomized controlled trials or robust observational studies detailing PG treatment were found. Systemic corticosteroids ± topical corticosteroids and/or antihistamines were the most frequently prescribed treatment modality (n = 74/137; 54%). Complete remission was achieved by 114/136 (83.8%) patients. Sixty-four patients (45.7%) were given more than one treatment modality due to side effects or ineffectiveness. Leaving aside topical corticosteroids as monotherapy ± antihistamines in patients with mild disease, systemic corticosteroids ± topical corticosteroids and/or antihistamines led to complete remission in the highest proportion of patients (83%), while steroid-sparing treatments ± topical corticosteroids and/or antihistamines were associated with the lowest proportion of flares (55.5%). Limitations: The review has been drafted based on a limited number of single case reports and small case series. Underreporting/underdiagnosis of patients with mild-to-moderate PG, partial/absent follow-up, absence of precise description of neonatal outcomes and lack of validated objective scores for measuring disease severity are other limitations of our study. Our systematic review was affected by publication bias. Conclusion: Systemic corticosteroids are the most frequently used treatment for PG. Whilst most patients achieve complete remission, many of them have refractory/persistent disease requiring multiple lines of therapy. Therefore, we provided an algorithm for PG treatment integrating the results of this systematic review with current knowledge available for bullous pemphigoid. High-quality studies will further help assess the effectiveness of different treatment options for PG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Genovese
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Amilcare Cerri
- Dermatology Unit, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Moltrasio
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Muratori
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilio Berti
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Valerio Marzano
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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8
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Genovese G, Derlino F, Berti E, Marzano AV. Treatment of Autoimmune Bullous Diseases During Pregnancy and Lactation: A Review Focusing on Pemphigus and Pemphigoid Gestationis. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:583354. [PMID: 33117178 PMCID: PMC7566587 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.583354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy may induce the onset or exacerbation of autoimmune bullous diseases such as pemphigus or pemphigoid gestationis. A shift toward T helper (Th) 2 immune response and the influence of hormonal changes have been evoked as possible triggering factors. Therapeutic management of this setting of patients may represent a challenge, mainly due to safety concerns of some immunosuppressive drugs during pregnancy and lactation. In this narrative review, we provided a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic management of autoimmune bullous diseases in pregnant and breastfeeding women, focusing on pemphigus and pemphigoid gestationis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Genovese
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Emilio Berti
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Valerio Marzano
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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9
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Savervall C, Thomsen SF. Managing Pemphigoid Gestationis. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/19-00209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pemphigoid gestationis (PG) is important to diagnose and treat because it carries considerable morbidity for the pregnant woman and can also constitute a risk to the fetus. Herein, the treatment options for PG and a proposed treatment algorithm for PG during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and late postpartum are reviewed.
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10
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New onset postpartum pemphigus vulgaris: A case report and review of treatment options. Int J Womens Dermatol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2020.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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11
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Hofmann SC, Juratli HA, Eming R. Bullöse Autoimmundermatosen. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2019; 16:1339-1360. [PMID: 30395404 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.13688_g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Silke C Hofmann
- Zentrum für Dermatologie, Allergologie und Dermatochirurgie, HELIOS Universitätsklinikum Wuppertal, Universität Witten/Herdecke
| | - Hazem A Juratli
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Marburg
| | - Rüdiger Eming
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Marburg
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12
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Abstract
Pemphigus consists of a group of rare and severe autoimmune blistering diseases mediated by pathogenic autoantibodies mainly directed against two desmosomal adhesion proteins, desmoglein (Dsg)1 and Dsg3 (also known as DG1 and DG3), which are present in the skin and surface-close mucosae. The binding of autoantibodies to Dsg proteins induces a separation of neighbouring keratinocytes, in a process known as acantholysis. The two main pemphigus variants are pemphigus vulgaris, which often originates with painful oral erosions, and pemphigus foliaceus, which is characterised by exclusive skin lesions. Pemphigus is diagnosed on the basis of either IgG or complement component 3 deposits (or both) at the keratinocyte cell membrane, detected by direct immunofluorescence microscopy of a perilesional biopsy, with serum anti-Dsg1 or anti-Dsg3 antibodies (or both) detected by ELISA. Corticosteroids are the therapeutic mainstay, which have recently been complemented by the anti-CD20 antibody rituximab in moderate and severe disease. Rituximab induces complete remission off therapy in 90% of patients, despite rapid tapering of corticosteroids, thus allowing for a major corticosteroid-sparing effect and a halved number of adverse events related to corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enno Schmidt
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany; Lübeck Institute for Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Michael Kasperkiewicz
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pascal Joly
- Department of Dermatology, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France; INSERM Unit 2345, French Reference Center for Autoimmune Bullous Diseases, Normandy University, Rouen, France
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13
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Hofmann SC, Juratli HA, Eming R. Bullous autoimmune dermatoses. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2019; 16:1339-1358. [PMID: 30395395 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.13688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pathophysiologically, bullous autoimmune dermatoses are caused by autoantibodies directed against adhesion molecules or structural proteins of the skin and mucous membranes, clinically resulting in blister formation. Depending on the respective target proteins of the autoimmune response and their location in the skin, a distinction is made between intraepidermal (pemphigus disorders), junctional (pemphigoid disorders), and subepidermal (epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, dermatitis herpetiformis) autoimmune blistering diseases. The most common bullous autoimmune dermatosis, bullous pemphigoid is characterized by marked clinical variability and intense pruritus. Predominantly affecting elderly individuals, there has been a significant increase in its incidence in recent years. While mucosal lesions occur in less than 30 % of bullous pemphigoid patients, the second most common bullous autoimmune dermatosis, pemphigus vulgaris, typically presents with oral erosions as the predominant and - frequently - initial symptom. Its onset is usually in the 4th to 6th decade of life. Scarring is typically found in subepidermal blistering disorders such as epidermolysis bullosa acquisita or mucous membrane pemphigoid. Diagnosis is based on clinical and histological findings as well as direct and indirect immunofluorescence and detection of circulating autoantibodies. Although a number of controlled clinical trials have been conducted in recent years, treatment of bullous autoimmune disorders is still primarily based on clinical experience. Therapeutic options include topical and systemic corticosteroids as well as adjuvant immunosuppressants. Recalcitrant cases may require treatment with immunoadsorption, intravenous immunoglobulins, or the monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody rituximab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke C Hofmann
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Dermatosurgery, HELIOS University Medical Center of Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Hazem A Juratli
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Marburg University Medical Center, Marburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Eming
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Marburg University Medical Center, Marburg, Germany
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14
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Amber KT, Maglie R, Solimani F, Eming R, Hertl M. Targeted Therapies for Autoimmune Bullous Diseases: Current Status. Drugs 2019; 78:1527-1548. [PMID: 30238396 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-018-0976-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune bullous skin disorders are rare but meaningful chronic inflammatory diseases, many of which had a poor or devastating prognosis prior to the advent of immunosuppressive drugs such as systemic corticosteroids, which down-regulate the immune pathogenesis in these disorders. Glucocorticoids and adjuvant immunosuppressive drugs have been of major benefit for the fast control of most of these disorders, but their long-term use is limited by major side effects such as blood cytopenia, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and gastrointestinal ulcers. In recent years, major efforts were made to identify key elements in the pathogenesis of autoimmune bullous disorders, leading to the identification of their autoantigens, which are mainly located in desmosomes (pemphigus) and the basement membrane zone (pemphigoids). In the majority of cases, immunoglobulin G, and to a lesser extent, immunoglobulin A autoantibodies directed against distinct cutaneous adhesion molecules are directly responsible for the loss of cell-cell and cell-basement membrane adhesion, which is clinically related to the formation of blisters and/or erosions of the skin and mucous membranes. We describe and discuss novel therapeutic strategies that directly interfere with the production and regulation of pathogenic autoantibodies (rituximab), their catabolism (intravenous immunoglobulins), and their presence in the circulation and extravascular tissues such as the skin (immunoadsorption), leading to a significant amelioration of disease. Moreover, we show that these novel therapies have pleiotropic effects on various proinflammatory cells and cytokines. Recent studies in bullous pemphigoid suggest that targeting of immunoglobulin E autoantibodies (omalizumab) may be also beneficial. In summary, the introduction of targeted therapies in pemphigus and pemphigoid holds major promise because of the high efficacy and fewer side effects compared with conventional global immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle T Amber
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 808 Wood St. Room 377, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Roberto Maglie
- Department of Dermatology, Philipps University, Baldingerstr., 35043, Marburg, Germany.,Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Farzan Solimani
- Department of Dermatology, Philipps University, Baldingerstr., 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Eming
- Department of Dermatology, Philipps University, Baldingerstr., 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Michael Hertl
- Department of Dermatology, Philipps University, Baldingerstr., 35043, Marburg, Germany.
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15
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Patsatsi A, Marinovic B, Murrell D. Autoimmune bullous diseases during pregnancy: Solving common and uncommon issues. Int J Womens Dermatol 2019; 5:166-170. [PMID: 31360750 PMCID: PMC6637227 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune bullous diseases during pregnancy pose a therapeutic challenge for medical dermatologists. There are main concerns with regard to the regimen, dose, route of administration, and potential harm to the fetus. Many therapeutic options may be safe during pregnancy despite official classifications. Furthermore, there are always questions regarding management during the lactation period. Additionally, issues exist about male and female fertility and the time of discontinuation of certain medications before conception. In this article, we present an overview of the literature based on answers to these issues to solve common and uncommon management problems that arise about a spectrum of autoimmune bullous diseases before conception, as well as during pregnancy and the lactation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Patsatsi
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Branka Marinovic
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dedee Murrell
- Department of Dermatology, University of New South Wales, Australia
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16
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Krain RL, Chen KL, Werth VP. Management of autoimmune blistering diseases in pregnancy and the neonate. GIORN ITAL DERMAT V 2019; 154:539-549. [PMID: 31195784 DOI: 10.23736/s0392-0488.19.06375-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The management of autoimmune blistering diseases (AIBD) is therapeutically challenging, particularly in patients who plan to conceive, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Not only is a patient's immune system altered by pregnancy-associated hormonal changes, but several medications used for AIBD treatment are not recommended for use in pregnancy or lactation. The data acquired regarding the safety and efficacy of these therapeutic interventions are gathered from studies or case reports from other diseases, as the treatment modalities are similar and randomized controlled trials are typically not performed in the setting of pregnancy. Although some medications for AIBD treatment are considered unsafe for use in pregnancy, many effective and tolerable therapies are able to provide benefit to these patients. In fact, most first-line agents may be used in pregnancy, to a given extent. This article discusses the medications used to treat AIBD prior to conception, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding, as well as highlights those that are contraindicated. The preferred approach to management in these patients is also discussed. Additionally, we present the available information regarding neonates of mothers with a diagnosis of AIBD, including the likelihood, identification, and management of neonatal blistering and the effects from medication exposure in utero.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Krain
- Department of Dermatology, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kristen L Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Victoria P Werth
- Department of Dermatology, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA - .,Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Feliciani C, Genovese G, D'astolto R, Pontini P, Marzano AV. Autoimmune bullous diseases during pregnancy: insight into pathogenetic mechanisms and clinical features. GIORN ITAL DERMAT V 2018; 154:256-262. [PMID: 30375213 DOI: 10.23736/s0392-0488.18.06153-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pemphigoid gestationis (PG), also known as herpes gestationis, is the prototypic pregnancy-associated autoimmune bullous disease (AIBD), but also the other AIBDs, notably pemphigus vulgaris, may begin or exacerbate during pregnancy. Although the increase in concentration of T and B regulatory cells makes pregnancy a state of increased immunologic tolerance toward the semiallogeneic fetal antigens, a prevalent T helper (Th) 2 profile, that is reported to be associated with pregnancy, may cause exacerbation of pemphigus and AIBDs in general during this period. Active disease may lead to stillbirth, spontaneous abortion, preterm pregnancy, low birthweight, and neonatal pemphigus. PG is a rare AIBD usually starting during the third trimester of pregnancy and healing in the postpartum. It is due to the formation of autoantibodies directed against different epitopes of bullous pemphigoid (BP) 180 as a consequence of the aberrant expression of BP180 in the placental tissue of genetically predisposed women. PG is characterized by vesicles with herpetiform distribution, blisters and urticarial elements typically involving the periumbilical area and the distal portion of the upper limbs. Diagnosis is based on: 1) physical examination; 2) histopathological pattern consisting of a dermal inflammatory infiltrate rich in eosinophils; 3) direct immunofluorescence test demonstrating linear deposits of complement fraction 3 and immunoglobulin G along the basement membrane zone; 4) detection of circulating autoantibodies by means of indirect immunofluorescence or enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Here, we provide an updated overview on the pathophysiologic mechanisms of pregnancy-associated or pregnancy-exacerbated AIBDs, focusing also on peculiar clinical features of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Feliciani
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanni Genovese
- Unit of Dermatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Physiopathology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto D'astolto
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paolo Pontini
- Unit of Dermatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Physiopathology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo V Marzano
- Unit of Dermatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy - .,Department of Physiopathology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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