Severe infections in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides receiving rituximab: A meta-analysis

Efficacy and safety of rituximab induction therapy and effect of rituximab maintenance for IgG4-related disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported that rituximab (RTX) therapy might be beneficial in reducing relapse rates in patients with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD). Therefore, we aimed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of RTX induction treatment and the effect of RTX maintenance in patients with IgG4-RD.

METHODS

The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO (CRD42023427352). PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane database, Scopus, and the Web of Science were interrogated to identify studies that evaluated the impact of RTX on prognosis in IgG4-RD. We explored the impact of various subgroups of factors on relapse outcomes and focused on the possible role of maintenance therapy in reducing relapse rates. The pooled incidence of adverse events of RTX therapy and the influencing factors have also been evaluated.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies comprising 374 patients (mean age 56.0 ± 8.7 years; male 73.7 %) with a mean follow-up duration of 23.4 ± 16.3 months were included. The pooled estimate of the response rate, complete remission rate, overall relapse rate, adverse event rate, and serious adverse event rate of RTX induction therapy were 97.3 % (95 % CI, 94.7 %-99.1 %), 55.8 % (95 % CI, 39.6 %-71.3 %), 16.9 % (95 % CI, 8.7 %-27.1 %), 31.6 % (95 % CI, 16.7 %-48.9 %) and 3.9 % (95 % CI, 0.8 %-8.9 %), respectively. In subgroup analysis, the pooled relapse rate was significantly lower in studies with maintenance than without maintenance (2.8% vs 21.5 %, p < 0.01). Pooled Kaplan-Meier relapse curves also demonstrated that RTX maintenance therapy provided a better prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

RTX induction therapy appears to have satisfactory efficacy in the induction of remission in IgG4-RD. In addition, prophylactic RTX maintenance therapy after induction may be beneficial in preventing relapse of IgG4-RD.

Enteric-coated Mycophenolate Sodium therApy versus cyclophosphamide for induction of Remission in Microscopic PolyAngiitis (EMSAR-MPA trial): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Several studies have demonstrated that mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) may be an excellent alternative to cyclophosphamide (CYC) or rituximab for the induction of remission in non-life-threatening anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies associated vasculitis because of its strong immunosuppressive potency and low toxicity profile. Enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) was introduced to reduce gastrointestinal adverse reactions of MMF. This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of EC-MPS combined with glucocorticoid in patients with active and non-life-threatening microscopic polyangiitis (MPA).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled, non-inferiority trial. A total of 110 patients with active and non-life-threatening MPA from 11 hospitals in Shanxi Province of China will be recruited and randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive either EC-MPS or CYC. All patients will receive the same glucocorticoid plan. We will compare oral EC-MPS (720-1440 mg/day) with intravenous pulsed CYC (7.5-15 mg/kg) administered for 3-6 months. All patients will be switched from their assigned treatment (EC-MPS or CYC) to oral azathioprine (2 mg/kg/day) after remission has been achieved, between 3 and 6 months. Azathioprine will be continued until the study ends at 18 months. The primary end point of efficacy is the remission rate at 6 months. Follow-up will continue for 18 months in order to detect an influence of induction regimen on subsequent relapse rates.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has received approval from the Ethics Committee of the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University (2022YX-026). All participants are required to provide written informed consent and no study-related procedures will be performed until consent is obtained. The results of this trial will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR2200063823.

Risk of severe infection associated with immunoglobulin deficiency under rituximab therapy in immune-mediated inflammatory disease

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the risk of severe infection in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disease (IMID) treated with RTX and with Ig deficiency.

METHODS

This was an observational, retrospective single-centre study of patients undergoing treatment with at least one rituximab (RTX) infusion for an IMID until 31 May 2020. Patients were followed up for at least 12 months after the last infusion or until severe infection or death. Ig deficiency was classified as prevalent (before RTX) or acquired (normal Ig assay results before RTX but Ig deficiency during a follow-up).

RESULTS

Of 311 patients, 10.6% had prevalent and 19.6% acquired Ig deficiency. Prevalent Ig deficiency was related to concomitant treatment with glucocorticoids (GCs), in particular with a high daily dose at baseline; and acquired Ig deficiency to cumulative dose of RTX, mean Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28), immunosuppressor or GCs therapy at baseline, diabetes mellitus and obesity. Overall, 14.5% of patients had a severe infection during follow-up, which was numerically but not statistically more frequent in patients with prevalent Ig deficiency than normal Ig level. On multivariate analysis, risk of severe infection was associated with chronic pulmonary disease, GCs dose and mean DAS28-C reactive protein. In a time-dependent analysis, risk of severe infection was not associated with Ig deficiency, either acquired or prevalent (adjusted HR 1.04 (95% CI 0.5 to 2.3), p=0.92).

CONCLUSION

Risk of severe infection was not associated with RTX-induced Ig deficiency in patients with an IMID. RTX management should be discussed according to an individual assessment of the infectious risk, especially in patients with GC therapy or chronic lung disease.

Efficacy and safety of avacopan in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis receiving rituximab in a randomised trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of avacopan in the subgroup of patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis receiving background induction therapy with rituximab in the phase 3 ADVOCATE trial.

METHODS

Key efficacy outcomes were remission at week 26 and sustained remission at week 52. Additional outcomes included the Glucocorticoid Toxicity Index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, urinary albumin to creatinine ratio, health-related quality of life and safety.

RESULTS

Of the 330 patients who received study medication, 214 (64.8%) received rituximab (once weekly for 4 weeks), with a mean age of 59.8 years; 163 (76.2%) had renal vasculitis and 125 (58.4%) were newly diagnosed. Remission at week 26 and sustained remission at week 52 were achieved by 83/107 (77.6%) and 76/107 (71.0%) patients in the avacopan group and 81/107 (75.7%) and 60/107 (56.1%) in the prednisone taper group, respectively. The relapse rate, recovery of renal function, speed of reduction in albuminuria and glucocorticoid toxicity favoured the avacopan group. Serious adverse events occurred in 34.6% and 39.3% of patients in the avacopan and prednisone taper groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis receiving rituximab, efficacy of treatment with avacopan compared with a prednisone taper was similar at week 26 and greater at week 52, with a favourable safety profile. In addition, avacopan was associated with improved renal outcomes and lower glucocorticoid toxicity. These results demonstrate the efficacy and safety of avacopan in patients receiving background induction therapy with rituximab.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02994927.

Current biologics in treatment of pemphigus foliaceus: a systematic review

Background

Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) differs from pemphigus vulgaris (PV) in that it affects only the skin and mucous membranes are not involved. Pemphigus is commonly treated with systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents (ISAs). More recently, biologics have been used. The current literature on biologic therapy often combines treatment of PF with PV, hence it is often difficult for clinicians to isolate the treatment of PF from PV. The purpose of this review was to provide information regarding the use of current biological therapy, specifically in PF.

Materials and methods

A search of PubMed, Embase, and other databases was conducted using keywords pemphigus foliaceus (PF), rituximab (RTX), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), and biologics. Forty-one studies were included in this review, which produced 105 patients with PF, treated with RTX, IVIg, or a combination of both. Eighty-five patients were treated with RTX, eight patients with IVIg, and 12 received both RTX and IVIg.

Results

Most patients in this review had PF that was nonresponsive to conventional immunosuppressive therapies (CIST), and had significant side effects from their use. RTX treatment resulted in complete remission (CR) in 63.2%, a relapse rate of 39.5%, an infection rate of 19.7%, and a mortality rate of 3.9%. Relapse was greater in the lymphoma (LP) protocol than the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) protocol (p<0.0001). IVIg led to CR in 62.5% of patients, with no relapses or infections. Patients receiving both biologics experienced better outcomes when RTX was first administered, then followed by IVIg. Follow-up durations for patients receiving RTX, IVIg, and both were 22.1, 24.8, and 35.7 months, respectively.

Discussion

In pemphigus foliaceus patients nonresponsive to conventional immunosuppressive therapy or in those with significant side effects from CIST, RTX and IVIg appear to be useful agents. Profile of clinical response, as well as relapse, infection, and mortality rates in PF patients treated with RTX were similar to those observed in PV patients. The data suggests that protocols specific for PF may produce better outcomes, less adverse effects, and improved quality of life.

Systematic literature review informing the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV): part 1-treatment of granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis

OBJECTIVE

To summarise and update evidence to inform the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV).

METHODS

A systematic literature review (SLR) was performed to identify current evidence regarding treatment of AAV. PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane library were searched from 1 February 2015 to 25 February 2022. The evidence presented here is focused on the treatment of granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis.

RESULTS

3517 articles were screened and 175 assessed by full-text review. Ninety articles were included in the final evidence synthesis. Cyclophosphamide and rituximab (RTX) show similar efficacy for remission induction (level of evidence (LoE) 1a) but RTX is more effective in relapsing disease (LoE 1b). Glucocorticoid (GC) protocols with faster tapering result in similar remission rates but lower rates of serious infections (LoE 1b). Avacopan can be used to rapidly taper and replace GC (LoE 1b). Data on plasma exchange are inconsistent depending on the analysed trial populations but meta-analyses based on randomised controlled trials demonstrate a reduction of the risk of end-stage kidney disease at 1 year but not during long-term follow-up (LoE 1a). Use of RTX for maintenance of remission is associated with lower relapse rates compared with azathioprine (AZA, LoE 1b). Prolonged maintenance treatment results in lower relapse rates for both, AZA (LoE 1b) and RTX (LoE 1b).

CONCLUSION

This SLR provides current evidence to inform the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of AAV.

Hypogammaglobulinemia, late-onset neutropenia, and infections following rituximab

Rituximab is a chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that targets CD20-expressing B lymphocytes, has a well-defined efficacy and safety profile, and is broadly used to treat a wide array of diseases. In this review, we cover the mechanism of action of rituximab and focus on hypogammaglobulinemia and late-onset neutropenia-2 immune effects secondary to rituximab-and subsequent infection. We review risk factors and highlight key considerations for immunologic monitoring and clinical management of rituximab-induced secondary immune deficiencies. In patients treated with rituximab, monitoring for hypogammaglobulinemia and infections may help to identify the subset of patients at high risk for developing poor B cell reconstitution, subsequent infections, and adverse complications. These patients may benefit from early interventions such as vaccination, antibacterial prophylaxis, and immunoglobulin replacement therapy. Systematic evaluation of immunoglobulin levels and peripheral B cell counts by flow cytometry, both at baseline and periodically after therapy, is recommended for monitoring. In addition, in those patients with prolonged hypogammaglobulinemia and increased infections after rituximab use, immunologic evaluation for inborn errors of immunity may be warranted to further risk stratification, increase monitoring, and assist in therapeutic decision-making. As the immunologic effects of rituximab are further elucidated, personalized approaches to minimize the risk of adverse reactions while maximizing benefit will allow for improved care of patients with decreased morbidity and mortality.

Outcomes in ANCA-associated vasculitis patients with end-stage kidney disease on renal replacement therapy-A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is associated with poor prognosis in patients with anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). This study summarizes the existing evidence regarding outcomes in AAV patients with ESKD on renal replacement therapy.

METHODS

Searches of the MEDLINE and Embase databases were performed from inception until December 2021. Any study reporting outcomes after ESKD in patients with AAV on haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis was included. The mortality rate per 100 person-years (100 py) calculated with a random-effects meta-analysis model was the primary outcome. Rates of infections and relapses were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

2470 citations were found; 22 studies of 952 adult patients with over 3600 person-years of follow-up were included. The pooled mortality rate was 10.90 per 100 py (95% CI: 7.11 - 14.68, I² = 90.8%). The pooled 1-year survival was 80.9% (95% CI: 75.6 - 86.1%, I² = 86.1%) while the pooled 5-year survival was 61.0% (95% CI: 46.0 - 76.0%, I² = 0.0%). The pooled severe infection rate was 66.57 per 100 py (95% CI: 13.64 - 119.50, I² = 99.6%). The pooled relapse rate was 6.22 per 100 py (95% CI: 4.64 - 7.80, I² = 46.6%). Only 1 paediatric study met the inclusion criteria and reported a mortality rate of 11.7 ± 1.9 deaths per 100 py (95% CI: 0.23 - 23.20) amongst 9 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AAV and ESKD have a lower risk of relapse, but higher infection and mortality rates. More prospective research exploring the role of immunosuppression after ESKD is needed.

Rituximab for connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of rituximab (RTX) on lung function and the prevalence of adverse events (AEs) in connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) by meta-analysis.

METHODS

EMBASE, Web of Science, PubMed and ClinicalKey were searched up to July 16, 2021. The lung function (forced vital capacity, FVC% predicted, and diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, DLCO% predicted) and prevalence of AEs of RTX in CTD-ILD were analyzed by meta-analysis, and 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were used to explore the heterogeneity.

RESULTS

We identified 29 studies, including 827 CTD-ILD patients with a median age of 53.05 years. In observational studies, FVC% (mean difference - 1.24, 95% CI [-2.35, -0.12]; P = .030) and DLCO% (-7.71, [-11.79, -3.63]; P = .014) of CTD-ILD decreased significantly after RTX treatment. In randomized controlled trials, FVC% of CTD-ILD decreased after RTX treatment (-5.24, [-9.94, - 0.54]; P = .029), but the difference of DLCO% was not significant (1.15, [-4.33, 6.63]; P = .681). The prevalence of AEs, all-cause mortality and infections was 29.7% (95% CI [0.17, 0.42]), 11.6% (95% CI [0.08, 0.16]) and 20.9% (95% CI [0.15, 0.27]), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

RTX was associated with AEs such as decreased pulmonary function, all-cause mortality, and infections in CTD-ILD. Adverse reactions during and after RTX treatment should be carefully monitored. Further prospective studies are needed to compare RTX with other immunosuppressants, antifibrotic drugs or placebos, which can provide therapeutic approaches for CTD-ILD.

Incidence of serious infections in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis receiving immunosuppressive therapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Rituximab and azathioprine are used to induce or maintain remission in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). We evaluated the incidence of serious infections and infection-related deaths in patients with AAV treated with rituximab and azathioprine, during the maintenance of remission period.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies evaluating immunosuppressive agents in patients with AAV. We defined serious or severe infections according to the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. The study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022366269).

Results

From 1,265 abstracts, we identified 21 studies (7 RCTs and 14 observational), with relevant data. We included data from 1,284 and 2,938 individuals for assessment in our primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. The overall cumulative incidence of serious infections was 15.99% (CI 95%: 6.95-27.53%) during the total follow-up period (induction and maintenance) and 7.62% (CI 95%: 4.43-11.43%) during the maintenance period. Additionally, we found a 0.49% overall case fatality rate (CI 95%: 0.02-1.37%) and a 0.09% infection-related mortality rate (CI 95%: 0.00-0.51%) during maintenance treatment. Notably, we found a 14.61% (CI 95%: 10.19-19.61%) cumulative incidence of serious infections among patients who received rituximab and a 5.93% (CI 95%: 1.19-13.26%) cumulative incidence of serious infections among patients who received azathioprine during maintenance. Moreover, the cumulative incidence of serious infections during the total follow-up period (induction and maintenance) was 20.81% (CI 95%:4.56-43.70%) for the combination of cyclophosphamide and azathioprine and 14.12% (CI 95%: 5.20-26.00%) for rituximab.

Discussion

The cumulative incidence of serious infections during total follow-up and maintenance was within expected limits, while fatal infections during maintenance treatment were uncommon. Additionally, treatment with rituximab for both induction and maintenance did not exceed the anticipated by previous studies incidence of serious infections. Clinical practice and long-term follow up data are needed to corroborate these findings.

Systematic review registration

Identifier: PROSPERO (CRD42022366269).

Adding low dose cyclophosphamide to rituximab for remission-induction may prolong relapse-free survival in patients with ANCA vasculitis: A retrospective study

Objective

Rituximab (RTX) and cyclophosphamide (CYC) are effective remission-induction therapies in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). However, combining these therapies may favor prognosis in patients with a major disease presentation. We conducted a retrospective study to compare patients treated with a combination of RTX and low dose CYC (RTX-CYC) or with RTX only, both followed by tailored maintenance with RTX, with regard to long-term outcomes.

Methods

Patients treated in the Maastricht University Medical Center between March 2007 and January 2019, were screened for eligibility. The primary outcome variable was major relapse rate after two and five years. Secondary outcome variables were clinical data and laboratory parameters.

Results

Of the 246 screened patients, 34 received RTX-CYC and 28 RTX only for remission-induction. All patients were followed for at least two years, with a median follow-up of 48 months (IQR 24-60). At baseline, renal involvement was more prevalent in the RTX-CYC patients (85% vs. 61%, P = 0.028). Major relapse rates within two years, but not after five years, were significantly lower in the RTX-CYC group (3% vs. 24%, P = 0.032). The rate of infections, hypogammaglobulinemia, end-stage renal disease, malignancies, and mortality did not differ after two and five years.

Conclusion

Adding low dose CYC to RTX is safe and may prevent major relapses in patients with severe AAV in the first two years after remission-induction. Randomized controlled trials that compare the efficacy and safety between RTX and a combination of RTX with CYC are needed.

The Efficacy and Safety of Rituximab in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis: A Systematic Review

Background and aim: Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare multisystem autoimmune disease developed by autoantibody production against human neutrophilic granulocytes, including proteinase-3 (PR3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). The management of AAV patients is difficult due to the multiorgan involvement, high rate of relapse, and complications of immunosuppressive agents that make it challenging. This study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) therapy in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) subtypes. Method: The PubMed/Medline database was searched for any studies related to RTX therapy in ANCA-associated vasculitis (GPA and MPA subtypes), from inception to 1 August 2022, and proceeded in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Results: Our search resulted in 1082 initial records. After the elimination of review papers, irrelevant studies, and non-English records, 223 articles were included, and the data related to the efficacy and safety of RTX therapy were extracted. Several randomized and non-randomized studies showed that RTX is an effective treatment option for patients with AAV. Most of the studies showed the very effective effect of RTX in controlling disease in AAV patients, including pediatrics, adults, and elderlies, although RTX cannot completely prevent relapse. However, maintenance therapy helps delay the disease's relapse and causes sustained remission. Not only the licensed dose (375 mg/m² intravenous per week for 4 weeks) could induce disease remission, but studies also showed that a single infusion of RTX could be effective. Although RTX could resolve many rare manifestations in AAV patients, there are few reports showing treatment failure. Additionally, few sudies have reported the unexpeted worsening of the disease after RTX administration. Generally, RTX is relatively safe compared to conventional therapies, but some serious adverse effects, mainly infections, cytopenia, hypogammaglobinemia, malignancy, and hypersensitivity have been reported. Conclusions: RTX is an effective and relatively safe therapeutic option for AAV. Studies on the evaluation of the safety profiles of RTX and the prevention of severe RTX-related side effects in AAV patients are required.

Old known and possible new biomarkers of ANCA-associated vasculitis

Antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) comprises a group of multisystem disorders involving severe, systemic, small-vessel vasculitis with short- and long term serious and life-threating complications. Despite the simplification of treatment, fundamental aspects concerning assessment of its efficacy and its adaptation to encountered complications or to the relapsing/remitting/subclinical disease course remain still unknown. The pathogenesis of AAV is complex and unique, and despite the progress achieved in the last years, much has not to be learnt. Foremost, there is still no accurate marker enabling us to monitoring disease and guide therapy. Therefore, the disease management relays often on clinical judgment and follows a" trial and error approach". In the recent years, an increasing number of new molecules s have been explored and used for this purpose including genomics, B- and T-cell subpopulations, complement system factors, cytokines, metabolomics, biospectroscopy and components of our microbiome. The aim of this review is to discuss both the role of known historical and clinically established biomarkers of AAV, as well as to highlight potential new ones, which could be used for timely diagnosis and monitoring of this devastating disease, with the goal to improve the effectiveness and ameliorate the complications of its demanding therapy.

Association between different infection profiles and one-year outcomes in ANCA-associated vasculitis: a retrospective study with monthly infection screening

Objectives

This study aimed to explore clinical features of early infection in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) and to identify the association between the infection profile of patients with AAV during the first 3 months and 1-year survival.

Methods

A total of 415 newly diagnosed patients with AAV in the Department of Nephrology at Shanghai Ruijin Hospital from 2000 to 2018 were included. Four Cox regression models were used to analyse the association based on demographics, comorbidities, laboratory baseline index and therapy parameter. Infection screening was carried out monthly during the first 3 months after diagnosis.

Results

In all, 377 episodes of infection were identified among 220 patients during the first 3 months. The overall survival after 1 year was 73.0%. Respiratory infection (210 episodes/164 persons) accounted for more than half of infections. Infection was independently associated with 1-year mortality (adjusted HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.27 to 4.23, p=0.006) after adjustment. Respiratory infection (adjusted HR 4.36, 95% CI 2.86 to 8.06, p<0.001), Gram-negative bacterial infection (adjusted HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.91, p=0.047) and fungal infection (adjusted HR 1.77, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.94, p=0.026) was identified as a risk factor for 1-year mortality. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) prophylaxis (adjusted HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.97, p=0.040) was protective for 1-year mortality.

Conclusions

Infections, particularly respiratory infections, are a common and important class of complication in patients with AAV and are associated with early mortality. TMP-SMX prophylaxis might be necessary to improve short-term outcome. More consideration of infectious risk and regular infection screening should be given.

Targeted therapies in CLL/SLL and the cumulative incidence of infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) are prone to infections.

Aims: Provide a pooled estimate of the cumulative incidence for infections that fulfilled the criteria associated with severe infectious adverse events for grade 3 or higher (including pneumonia, febrile neutropenia and sepsis) in patients who receive targeted therapies.

Methods: We searched PubMed and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials (RCT) that included patients with CLL/SLL who received targeted therapies and performed a random-effects meta-analysis to estimate the cumulative incidence of infections.

Results: Of 2,914 studies screened, we retrieved 31 which evaluated 11,660 patients. The pooled cumulative incidence of infections for patients who received treatment regimens based on a BTK inhibitors was 19.86%. For patients who received treatment based on rituximab and second generation anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, the pooled cumulative incidence of infections was 19.85 and 13.46%, respectively. Regarding PI3K inhibitor-based regimens the cumulative incidence of severe infections was 30.89%. BCL-2 inhibitors had a cumulative incidence of infections of 17.49% while lenalidomide and alemtuzumab had an incidence of 13.33 and 45.09%, respectively. The cumulative incidence of pneumonia ranged from 3.01 to 8.45% while febrile neutropenia ranged from 2.68 to 10.80%. Regarding sepsis, the cumulative incidence ranged from 0.9 to 4.48%.

Conclusion: Patients with CLL/SLL who receive targeted therapies may develop severe infections at significant rates that, in addition to disease stage and other complications, depend on the mechanism of action of the used drug. Surveillance for infections and development of effective prophylactic strategies are critical for patients with CLL/SLL who receive targeted therapies.

Systematic Review Registration: [https://systematicreview.gov/], identifier [registration number]

Predicting bacterial infection risk in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis in southwest China: development of a new nomogram

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to develop and assess a risk nomogram of bacterial infection in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) in southwest China.

METHOD

We established a prediction model based on a training dataset of 249 AAV patients. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) was used to screen feature variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to build a prediction model for feature variables. Nomogram was used to predict the risk of bacterial infection in AAV patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate and verify the prediction accuracy of the model. Calibration and clinical useful range was assessed using calibration curve and decision curve analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

Bactericidal permeability enhancement protein of ANCAs (BPI-ANCAs), procalcitonin (PCT), and white blood cell (WBC) were the characteristic variables in this study. Nomogram showed that positive BPI-ANCAs and PCT had higher positive predictive value for bacterial infection in AAV patients. The area under curve (AUC) of the model was 0.703 (95% confidence interval: 0.640-0.766). In the validation model, the AUC was 0.745 (95% confidence interval: 0.617-0.872). Decision curve analysis showed that the nonadherence nomogram was clinically useful within the threshold probability range of 0.31-0.85.

CONCLUSIONS

Nomogram combined with BPI-ANCAs and PCT has the guiding significance for predicting bacterial infection risk in AAV. As an ANCA-specific autoantibody, BPI-ANCAs is helpful for clinicians to understand the role of specific autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of AAV. Key Points • BPI-ANCAs, PCT, and WBC could predict bacterial infection in AAV patients. • Nomogram showed that positive BPI-ANCAs had a high positive predictive value for bacterial infection in AAV patients.

New-onset Hypogammaglobulinemia and Infectious Complications Associated with Rituximab Use in Childhood-onset Rheumatic Diseases

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence and risk factors for hypogammaglobulinemia and infectious complications associated with rituximab treatment in childhood-onset rheumatic diseases.

METHODS

We performed a single-center retrospective study of patients (n = 85) treated at Boston Children's Hospital (BCH) from 2009 to 2019. Study subjects included patients (ages 6 to 24) who received rituximab for the treatment of a childhood-onset rheumatic disease.

RESULTS

New-onset hypogammaglobulinemia developed in 23 (27.1%) patients within 18 months of rituximab induction treatment. 22 patients (25.9%) developed at least one infectious complication in the 18 months following the first rituximab infusion; of these, 11 (50%) had serious infections requiring inpatient treatment. After adjusting for potential confounders, exposure to pulse corticosteroid therapy in the month prior to rituximab use was a significant predictor of both new-onset hypogammaglobulinemia (OR 3.94; 95% CI 1.07-16.0; p = 0.044) and infectious complications (OR 15.3; 95% CI 3.04-126.8; p = 0.003). Post-rituximab hypogammaglobulinemia was the strongest predictor of serious infectious complications (OR 7.89; 95% CI 1.41-65.6; p = 0.028). Younger age at rituximab use was also a significant predictor of new-onset hypogammaglobulinemia (OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.70-0.97; p = 0.021). Compared with other rheumatic diseases, patients with vasculitis had a higher likelihood of developing infectious complications, including serious infections.

CONCLUSION

Although rituximab was well tolerated in terms of infectious complications in the majority of patients with childhood-onset rheumatic diseases, a substantial proportion developed new-onset hypogammaglobulinemia and infectious complications following treatment. Our study highlights a role for heightened vigilance of rituximab-associated hypogammaglobulinemia and infections in pediatric patients with rheumatic conditions.

ANCA and anti-glomerular basement membrane double-positive patients: A systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Double-positive patients (DPP) exhibiting anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) belong to an entity that is newly and poorly described, mainly in short series. We aimed to better characterize the epidemiological features, clinical presentation and therapeutic outcomes of these patients through a systematic review.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of English-, German-, Spanish- and French-written publications from February 1987 to March 2020 reporting cases of DPP using the following databases: PubMed, Scielo, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, The Cochrane Library, Open Grey, The Grey Literature Report, Clinicaltrials.gov and International Clinical Trial Registry Platform of the World Health Organization.

RESULTS

In total, 538 DPP were identified from 90 articles. Their clinical presentations were often severe, and the majority exhibited acute kidney failure (91.8%) with a median initial serum creatinine level of 873 μmol/L; 50.7% had alveolar haemorrhage. Other manifestations were present in 30.3% of DPP, mainly ear, nose, throat and articular manifestations. ANCAs were predominantly directed against MPO (n = 377/523; 72.1%) compared to PR3 (n = 107/523; 20.5%), with rare cases of triple positivity (n = 15/538; 2.9%). Although most patients received initial immunosuppressive therapy (n = 285/317; 89.9%), the one-year overall, renal and relapse-free survival rates were 64.8%, 38.7% and 71.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

DPP are associated with the characteristics of two eponymous vasculitis types, responsible for a poor overall and renal prognosis. Thus, simultaneous testing of both antibodies and systematic renal biopsy should be recommended in every patient with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis to recognize this difficult-to-treat and rare disease.

Using Routine Laboratory Markers and Immunological Indicators for Predicting Pneumocystis jiroveci Pneumonia in Immunocompromised Patients

Background

Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) is the most common opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients. The accurate prediction of PJP development in patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy remains challenge.

Methods

Patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatment and with confirmed pneumocystis jiroveci infection were enrolled. Another group of matched patients with immunosuppressant treatment but without signs of infectious diseases were enrolled to control group.

Results

A total of 80 (40 PJP, 40 non-PJP) participants were enrolled from Tongji Hospital. None of the patients were HIV positive. The routine laboratory indicators, such as LYM, MON, RBC, TP, and ALB, were significantly lower in PJP patients than in non-PJP patients. Conversely, LDH in PJP patients was significantly higher than in non-PJP controls. For immunological indicators, the numbers of T, B, and NK cells were all remarkably lower in PJP patients than in non-PJP controls, whereas the functional markers such as HLA-DR, CD45RO and CD28 expressed on CD4⁺ or CD8⁺ T cells had no statistical difference between these two groups. Cluster analysis showing that decrease of host immunity markers including CD3⁺, CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, and increase of tissue damage marker LDH were the most typical characteristics of PJP patients. A further established model based on combination of CD8⁺ T cells and LDH showed prominent value in distinguishing PJP from non-PJP, with AUC of 0.941 (95% CI, 0.892-0.990).

Conclusions

A model based on combination of routine laboratory and immunological indicators shows prominent value for predicting the development of PJP in HIV-negative patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.

Serious infections in ANCA-associated vasculitides in the biologic era: real-life data from a multicenter cohort of 162 patients

BACKGROUND

Serious infections (SI) are common in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAV) like granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). Real-life data regarding their incidence and predisposing factors-after the introduction of B cell depleting agents-are limited while data quantifying the risk per treatment modality and year of the disease are missing. Here, we aim to describe in details the incidence and the risk factors for SI in a contemporary AAV cohort.

METHODS

Multicenter, observational, retrospective study of AAV patients followed in three tertiary referral centers.

RESULTS

We included 162 patients with GPA (63%) and MPA (37%), males 51.9%, mean age 60.9 years, ΑΝCA+ 86%, and generalized disease 80%. During follow-up (891.2 patient-years, mean 5.4 years), 67 SI were recorded in 50 patients at an incidence rate of 7.5 per 100 patient-years. The SI incidence rate was higher during induction with cyclophosphamide (CYC) compared to rituximab (RTX, 19.3 vs. 11.3 per 100 patient-years, respectively) while it was lower and comparable between RTX and other regimens (5.52 vs. 4.54 per 100 patient-years, respectively) in the maintenance phase. By multivariate analysis, plasmapheresis (PLEX) and/or dialysis was a strong predictor for an SI during the 1st year after diagnosis (OR = 3.16, 95% CI 1.001-9.96) and throughout the follow-up period (OR = 5.21, 95% CI 1.93-14.07). In contrast, a higher baseline BVAS (OR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.01-1.21) was associated with SI only during the 1st year.

CONCLUSIONS

In this real-life study of patients with AAV, the SI incidence was higher during CYC compared to RTX induction while there was no difference between RTX and other agents used for maintenance therapy. Higher disease activity at baseline and need for PLEX and/or dialysis were independent factors associated with an SI.

Impaired Kidney Function Associated with Increased Risk of Side Effects in Patients with Small Vessel Vasculitis Treated with Rituximab as an Induction Therapy

Rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody against the CD20 molecule, is used as an induction therapy in the treatment of small vessel vasculitis (SVV). The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of RTX induction therapy for refractory SVV. A retrospective analysis of 20 patients treated with RTX for active SVV (BVAS/WG ≥ 3) was performed to assess the remission rate and the drug-related severe adverse events 6 months after therapy. The mean age of the studied population was 49 ± 13 years (50% female), 90% of which were PR3-ANCA positive. Complete remission was achieved in 85% of patients, and partial remission was achieved in a further 10% within 6 months after RTX infusions. The remission rate was not influenced by kidney function. Adverse events such as infections (25%), a late onset of neutropenia (10%) and severe hypogammaglobulinemia (5%) were noted. The patients who developed adverse events were older (42 ± 11 vs. 57 ± 12 years; p = 0.014) and had a higher serum creatinine level (1.3 mg/dL vs. 3.35 mg/dL; p = 0.044). Patients with a glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) lower than 30 mL/min/1.73 m² had a nine-fold higher risk of side effects (OR 9.0, 95%CI: 1.14-71.0). In conclusion, RTX was highly effective as an induction therapy in patients with SVV. Advanced kidney failure with an eGFR lower than 30 mL/min/1.73 m² was one of the risk factors for the occurrence of side effects.

Safety of Newer Disease Modifying Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis

In the past decade, the therapeutic arsenal for multiple sclerosis has expanded greatly. Newer more potent disease modifying therapies (DMTs) with varying mechanisms of actions are increasingly used early in the disease course. These newer DMTs include oral therapies (teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod, siponimod, ozanimod, and cladribine) and infusion therapies (natalizumab, alemtuzumab, and ocrelizumab), and are associated with better control of disease activity and long-term outcomes in patients with MS compared to older injectable therapies (interferon beta and glatiramer acetate). However, they are associated with safety concerns and subsequent monitoring requirements. Adverse events are initially observed in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials, and further long-term data are collected in phase 3 extension studies, case series, and post-marketing reports, which highlight the need to periodically re-evaluate and adjust monitoring strategies to optimize treatment safety in an individualized approach.

Experience with similar biologic rituximab in 77 patients of granulomatosis with polyangiitis-a real-life experience

OBJECTIVES

To present single centre experience on the efficacy and safety of similar biologic of rituximab in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of GPA patients who received similar biologic of rituximab as either remission induction or maintenance agent. Demographic parameters, Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS-v3), vasculitis damage index, relapse and adverse events were retrieved from patient records. Outcomes noted were remission at 6 months in remission induction group and rates of relapses, adverse events, serious infections and mortality in both remission induction and maintenance groups.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven GPA patients were enrolled. Sixty received rituximab for induction and 57 for maintenance; 69% were anti PR-3 positive. In the induction group, median BVAS-v3 reduced from 12 (IQR 6-21.5) to 0 (0-1) at 6 months. At 6 months, 60% patients attained remission, 40% in primary induction group and 74% in re-induction group (p = 0.016%). In the maintenance group, seven (12%) patients had relapses with median time to relapse of 12 (6-22) months. Median relapse free survival was 21 (6-22) months on rituximab maintenance. There were 12 deaths (15.6%) and 18 serious infections.

CONCLUSION

Similar biologic of rituximab was an effective agent for remission induction and remission maintenance in patients with GPA. Head to head trials with innovator molecule are needed to confirm these results.

KEY POINTS

• Remission was achieved in 60% of GPA patients who received similar biologic of rituximab as remission induction therapy. • Relapse rate during maintenance phase was 12% with similar biologic of rituximab. Serious infections and mortality with similar biologic of rituximab were comparable with that reported previously in AAV trials.

Management challenges for chronic dysimmune neuropathies during the COVID-19 pandemic

Since March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the need to re-think the delivery of services to patients with chronic dysimmune neuropathies. Telephone/video consultations have become widespread but have compounded concerns about objective evaluation. Therapeutic decisions need, more than ever before, to be considered in the best interests of both patients, and society, while not denying function-preserving/restoring treatment. Immunoglobulin therapy and plasma exchange, for those treated outside of the home, expose patients to the hazards of hospital or outpatient infusion centers. Steroid therapy initiation and continuation pose increased infectious risk. Immunosuppressant therapy similarly becomes highly problematic, with the risks of treatment continuation enhanced by uncertainties regarding duration of the pandemic. The required processes necessitate considerable time and effort especially as resources and staff are re-deployed to face the pandemic, but are essential for protecting this group of patients and as an integral part of wider public health actions.