Introduction, epidemiology and classification of vasculitis

The Diagnostic Role of Skin Manifestations in Rheumatic Diseases in Children: A Critical Review of Paediatric Vasculitis

Skin lesions are frequently observed in children with rheumatic diseases, particularly in conditions such as IgA vasculitis (IgAV) and Kawasaki disease (KD). In paediatric vasculitis, the presence of skin lesions serves as an early indicator, emphasising the importance of timely diagnosis to prevent complications, such as cardiac or renal involvement. Conversely, autoinflammatory disorders like juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and juvenile dermatomyositis (DM) may manifest with cutaneous manifestations either at the onset of disease or during its progression. Identifying these skin lesions prior to the appearance of systemic symptoms offers an opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment, which has a positive influence on the outcomes. Additionally, it is noteworthy that specific rheumatological conditions, such as acute rheumatic fever (ARF) or oligoarticular or polyarticular forms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), may exhibit occasional, but significant skin involvement, which is strongly correlated with an unfavourable prognosis. The assessment of skin is important in the holist approach to assessing patients for potentially systemic/multisystem disorder and helps distinguish discrete conditions.

Successful Treatment of Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Involving Multiple Renal and Bone Infiltrations Presenting with Giant Cell Arteritis-like Manifestations

We herein report a case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) involving multiple renal and bone infiltrations presenting with giant cell arteritis (GCA)-like manifestations. One month prior, the present patient had left-sided temporal headache, jaw claudication, and renal failure. The patient was diagnosed with DLBCL based on a renal biopsy. After rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone plus intrathecal methotrexate/cytarabine/prednisone and rituximab, high-dose methotrexate, and cytarabine chemotherapy, the patient's clinical manifestations improved, and complete remission was achieved. DLBCL rarely but occasionally presents with GCA-like manifestations or multiple renal and bone infiltrations, highlighting the need for prompt and aggressive combination chemotherapy.

Performance of the 2022 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology Classification Criteria for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis in previously diagnosed adult patients from Türkiye

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of the new 2022 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) criteria in Turkish adult patients previously diagnosed with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). Patients and methods: One hundred sixty-four patients (96 males, 68 females; mean age: 49.6±14.4 years; range, 18 to 87 years) diagnosed with AAV by experienced rheumatologists between July 2016 and May 2022 were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study and reclassified based on the 1990 ACR criteria, the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) algorithm, and the 2022 ACR/EULAR criteria. For external validation, 83 patients (48 males, 35 females; mean age: 47.3±17.5 years; range, 19 to 81 years) diagnosed with immunoglobulin (Ig)A vasculitis were included. Results: One hundred twenty-six (76.8%) patients had granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), 13 (7.9%) patients had eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), and 25 (15.2%) patients had microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). According to the criteria, the number of unclassified patients was nine (5.5%) for both the 2022 ACR/EULAR AAV classification criteria and the EMEA algorithm. The new criteria had an almost perfect agreement with the clinician's diagnosis (Cohen's kappa coefficient [κ]=0.858 for GPA, κ=0.820 for EGPA, and κ=0.847 for MPA). The kappa statistics for agreement of 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria with the EMEA algorithm were found 0.794 for GPA, 0.820 for EGPA, and 0.700 for MPA. None of the 83 patients diagnosed with IgA vasculitis could be classified as GPA, EGPA, or MPA using the new ACR/EULAR AAV classification criteria. Conclusion: The 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for AAV showed substantial or perfect agreement with the clinical diagnosis and the EMEA algorithm.

Pathogenesis of Pulmonary Manifestations in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis and Goodpasture Syndrome

Pulmonary manifestations of vasculitis are associated with significant morbidity and mortality in affected individuals. They result from a complex interplay between immune dysregulation, which leads to vascular inflammation and tissue damage. This review explored the underlying pathogenesis of pulmonary involvement in vasculitis, encompassing various forms such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), and anti-GBM disease. Mechanisms involving ANCA and anti-GBM autoantibodies, neutrophil activation, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NETs) formation are discussed, along with the role of the complement system in inducing pulmonary injury. Furthermore, the impact of genetic predisposition and environmental factors on disease susceptibility and severity was considered, and the current treatment options were presented. Understanding the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary vasculitis is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving clinical outcomes in affected individuals.

Multi-Modality Imaging in Vasculitis

Systemic vasculitides are a rare and complex group of diseases that can affect multiple organ systems. Clinically, presentation may be vague and non-specific and as such, diagnosis and subsequent management are challenging. These entities are typically classified by the size of vessel involved, including large-vessel vasculitis (giant cell arteritis, Takayasu's arteritis, and clinically isolated aortitis), medium-vessel vasculitis (including polyarteritis nodosa and Kawasaki disease), and small-vessel vasculitis (granulomatosis with polyangiitis and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis). There are also other systemic vasculitides that do not fit in to these categories, such as Behcet's disease, Cogan syndrome, and IgG4-related disease. Advances in medical imaging modalities have revolutionized the approach to diagnosis of these diseases. Specifically, color Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography and angiography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, or invasive catheterization as indicated have become fundamental in the work up of any patient with suspected systemic or localized vasculitis. This review presents the key diagnostic imaging modalities and their clinical utility in the evaluation of systemic vasculitis.

Cardiovascular pathology in vasculitis

Vasculitides are diseases that can affect any vessel. When cardiac or aortic involvement is present, the prognosis can worsen significantly. Pathological assessment often plays a key role in reaching a definite diagnosis of cardiac or aortic vasculitis, particularly when the clinical evidence of a systemic inflammatory disease is missing. The following review will focus on the main histopathological findings of cardiac and aortic vasculitides.

Risk of Hypertensive Disorders and Preterm Birth in Pregnant Women With Systemic Vasculitides: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Even though systemic vasculitides (SVs) affect primarily patients over 50 years of age, they can occur among women of childbearing age. Preterm birth (PTB) and hypertensive disorders are frequent complications of pregnancy in SVs. This study aims to evaluate the risk of hypertensive disorders and PTB among pregnant women with SVs, and to identify associated risk factors.

METHOD

Using the French health insurance data warehouse, we conducted a nationwide cohort study including all pregnancies between 2013 and 2018 in women with SVs. Theses pregnancies were matched to pregnancies among women without SVs. We estimated risk of hypertensive disorders and PTB risk during pregnancy among women with SVs and investigated associated risk factors using a nested case-control design.

RESULTS

Among 3,155,723 pregnancies, we identified 646 pregnancies in women with SVs, matched to 3,230 controls. SVs were significantly associated with hypertensive disorders (odds ratio [OR] 1.7, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.3-2.2) and PTB (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.4-2.3). Chronic renal failure before pregnancy, history of or treated arterial hypertension, the occurrence of vasculitides flare during pregnancy, and the subgroup of SVs were independently associated with the occurrence of hypertensive disorders. Maternal age at delivery, chronic renal failure before conception, and the occurrence of vasculitides flare during pregnancy were independently associated with the occurrence of PTB.

CONCLUSION

About one of seven pregnancies in women with SVs is associated with hypertensive disorders or preterm birth. The occurrence of vasculitides flare was associated with these complications. Our findings support the importance of prepregnancy counseling to ensure disease stability.

Arterial Stiffness as a Surrogate Marker of Cardiovascular Disease and Atherosclerosis in Patients with Vasculitides: A Literature Review

Vasculitis, a group of systemic inflammatory diseases that affect the cardiovascular (CV) system, presents with a variety of clinical manifestations that depend on the size of the affected blood vessels. While some types of vasculitis reveal distinct symptoms, others are characterized by more diffuse and nonspecific presentations that can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment initiation. Interestingly, patients with vasculitides share a significant comorbidity: an elevated CV risk, contributing to increased rates of CV events and mortality. This heightened risk is caused by cumulative inflammatory burden, traditional CV risk factors, medication effects, and reduced physical fitness. Traditional risk assessment tools, commonly used in the general population, frequently underestimate the CV risk in patients with inflammatory rheumatic conditions. Consequently, novel approaches are necessary to stratify the precise CV risk in vasculitis patients. A number of surrogate parameters for CV risk have been investigated, with arterial stiffness emerging as a promising marker. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a well-established method for assessing arterial stiffness and predicting CV risk across different populations. Among numerous PWV variants, carotid-femoral PWV (cfPWV) stands out as the most extensively studied and accepted reference standard. It has demonstrated its utility as a surrogate CV parameter both in the general population and in patients with systemic inflammatory rheumatic diseases. In recent years, research has expanded to assess arterial stiffness in systemic rheumatic diseases, such as arthritis, connective tissue diseases, rheumatologic overlap syndromes, and chronic pain disorders, using measurements of PWV and other markers of arterial compliance and elasticity. Despite burgeoning research in rheumatologic diseases, data on CV risk markers in vasculitides remain limited and fragmented. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of arterial stiffness as a potential screening marker for CV diseases, atheromatosis, and ultimately CV risk among patients with vasculitides.

Alteration of microbial composition in the skin and blood in vasculitis

Vasculitis is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by leukocyte infiltration into blood vessels. Various microorganisms have been associated with the pathogenesis of vasculitis; however, the causal microbial agents and underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, possibly because of the technical limitations of pathogen detection. In the present study, we characterized the microbiome profile of patients with cutaneous vasculitis using comprehensive metagenome shotgun sequencing. We found that the abundance of the SEN virus was increased in the affected skin and serum of patients with vasculitis compared to healthy donors. In particular, the abundance of SEN virus reads was increased in the sera of patients with cutaneous arteritis. Among the bacteria identified, Corynebacteriales was the most differentially associated with vasculitis. Linear discriminant analysis effect size also indicated differences in the microbial taxa between patients with vasculitis and healthy donors. These findings demonstrate that vasculitis is associated with considerable alteration of the microbiome in the blood and skin and suggest a role for the infectious trigger in vasculitis.

Race and Gender on the Mortality of Giant Cell Arteritis in Hospitalized Patients: A 15-Year National Inpatient Study

BACKGROUND

Critical appraisal of mortality in giant cell arteritis (GCA) through a racial lens is imperative as gender and racial disparities remain a global healthcare concern.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the impact of race and gender on the mortality of GCA in United States (US)-hospitalized patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from January 2003 to December 2018 was searched to identify all patients aged >18 years hospitalized with giant cell arteritis. Patients' baseline characteristics were summarized using descriptive statistics. Inferential statistics were done for categorical and continuous variables. Multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for patient and hospital-level cofounders was performed to find an association between race and outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

Over the 15-year study period, a total of 8,352 patients (72.7% White, 14.5% Black or African American, 7.6% Hispanic, 2.2% Asian, 0.4% Alaska Native, and 2.6% under-represented populations) were hospitalized for GCA. The mean age at diagnosis was 73.6 ± 0.12 years. Women represented 71.9% of GCA patients and had a lower risk of mortality (OR 0.463, 95% CI: 0.235 - 0.912, p <0.05). Patients with GCA were hospitalized for an average of 4.64 days ± 0.04 days and 0.55% died. The mortality rate was lowest in Black or African American (0.1%) populations and highest among Alaska Native patients (8%). Mortality was 68% lower in those who had temporal artery biopsy (OR 0.32, 95% CI: 0.16-0.64, p <0.05).

CONCLUSION

GCA disproportionally affected female patients, but mortality was higher in male patients. Alaska Native patients had the least number of hospitalizations but the highest in-hospital mortality rate. Black or African Americans had the lowest mortality rate.

Childhood-Onset ANCA- Associated Vasculitis: single center experience from Central California

BACKGROUND

Childhood-onset ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAV) are characterized by necrotizing inflammation and include granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). Pediatric data is scare and there have been no prior studies examining the characteristics of pediatric AAV in Central California.

METHODS

This retrospective study comprised AAV patients ≤18 years of age, diagnosed between 2010 and 2021, in Central California. We analyzed initial presentation including demographics, clinical, laboratory characteristics, treatment, and initial outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 21 patients with AAV, 12 were categorized as MPA and 9 with GPA. Median age at diagnosis was 13.7 years in MPA cohort and 14 years in GPA. MPA cohort were majority females (92% versus 44%). 57% of the cohort were racial/ethnic minority including Hispanics (n = 9), Asians (n = 2), multiracial (n = 1) and 43% were white (n = 9). MPA patients were more frequently Hispanic (67%), meanwhile GPA patients were frequently white (78%). Median duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis was 14 days in MPA cohort and 21 days in GPA cohort. Renal involvement was frequent (100% in MPA and 78% in GPA). GPA cohort had frequent ear, nose and throat (ENT) involvement (89%). All patients were ANCA positive. All Hispanic patients were MPO positive, meanwhile 89% of white patients were PR3 positive. MPA cohort tended towards more severe disease with 67% requiring ICU admission and 50% requiring dialysis. Two deaths were reported in MPA cohort, related to Aspergillus pneumonia and pulmonary hemorrhage. In MPA cohort, 42% received cyclophosphamide in combination with steroids and 42% received rituximab in combination with steroids. GPA patients received cyclophosphamide, either with steroids alone (78%) or in combination with steroids and rituximab (22%).

CONCLUSIONS

Microscopic polyangiitis was the most frequent AAV subtype with female preponderance, shorter duration of symptoms at onset and higher proportion of racial/ ethnic minority patients. Hispanic children demonstrated frequent MPO positivity. Trends towards higher rates of ICU requirement and need for dialysis upon initial presentation was noted in MPA. Patients with MPA received rituximab more frequently. Future prospective studies are needed to understand differences in presentation and outcomes in childhood onset AAV between diverse racial-ethnic groups.

Temporal Artery Ultrasound for the Diagnosis of Giant Cell Arteritis in the Emergency Department

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), known as temporal arteritis, is a serious condition requiring immediate treatment to prevent complications. GCA can be difficult to diagnose, especially in emergency department (ED) settings where ophthalmology and rheumatology services may be unavailable. Temporal artery ultrasound (TAUS) is a valuable tool for diagnosing GCA. In the ED, TAUS can be used to quickly rule out GCA and avoid unindicated steroid treatment, which can cause serious morbidity in elderly patients. This article discusses the use of TAUS for evaluating patients with suspected GCA in the ED and its potential to expedite treatment and ensure appropriate, timely follow-up for patients with this potential vision and life-threatening condition.

Role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in Large Vessel Vasculitis and Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Systemic vasculitides comprise a group of autoimmune diseases affecting blood vessels, including large vessel vasculitis (LVV) and medium-sized vessel vasculitis such as giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK). GCA frequently overlaps with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), a rheumatic inflammatory condition affecting bursae, tendons or tendon sheaths, and joints. ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT plays an important role in the diagnostic work-up of GCA, PMR, and TAK and is increasingly used to monitor treatment response. This continuing education article provides up-to-date guidance on the role of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in patients with LVV, medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and PMR. It provides a general introduction on the clinical presentation and challenges in the diagnostic work-up of LVV and medium-sized vessel vasculitis, with a focus on the 2 major LVV subtypes: GCA, including PMR, and TAK. Next, practice points to perform and interpret the results of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT are described in line with the published procedure recommendations. Furthermore, the diagnostic performance and its role for treatment monitoring are discussed, taking into account recent international recommendations for the use of imaging in LVV and medium-sized vessel vasculitis in clinical practice. This is illustrated by several clinically representative PET/CT scan examples. Lastly, knowledge of limitations and pitfalls is essential to understand the role of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in LVV, medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and PMR. Challenges and opportunities, as well as future research and conclusions, are highlighted. Learning objectives provide up-to-date guidance for the role of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in patients with suspected LVV, medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and PMR.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with systemic vasculitis: a single-centre retrospective study

This study aimed to study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients living with systemic vasculitis in Kazakhstan. A single-centre retrospective study of the medical histories of 82 patients was carried out based on the regional clinical hospital of the city for all admissions with systemic vasculitis in the period from January 2019 to December 2021. The following qualitative (gender, disability, concomitant diseases) and quantitative (age, disease experience, laboratory data, etc.) variables were studied. To conduct the study, the criteria for the inclusion and exclusion of patients in the study were determined. According to the results of the study, there is a decrease in the number of hospitalized patients with vasculitis in the rheumatology department of the regional clinical hospital. Compared to 2019, in 2021, the number of hospitalized patients decreased by almost half (Table 1). Out of 82 cases, the most common was Takayasu disease (nonspecific aortoarteritis) (43.9%), IgA-vasculitis (Schenlein-Genoch disease) (31.71%), and they are typical mainly for females of rural origin, who were admitted to the hospital in a comorbid state (p < 0.001). 41.6% of patients have disabilities, and the majority of patients have a II disability group. The average body mass index is 24.2; 27 patients out of the total number of patients suffer from obesity. The most common clinical symptoms of patients with systemic vasculitis were injuries of the musculoskeletal system (75.6%). A negative average correlation was found between the indicators of the level of ESR and haemoglobin, the correlation coefficient is -0.535. The patients had concomitant diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, iron deficiency anaemia, coronary heart disease, hypertension, gastrointestinal tract diseases and hepatitis. Women of reproductive age from rural areas are often diagnosed with systemic vasculitis. A high rate of disability revealed among the patients can be explained by two main factors, the first is that the patients consulted the doctors untimely and the second is that the medical community are insufficiently informed about the management of autoimmune rheumatic diseases, in particular about systemic vasculitis, which hinders timely diagnosis and treatment, respectively. Patients, included in this survey, were mostly suffering from diseases of the musculoskeletal system, but depending on the type of vasculitis, other organs and systems may be affected. Table 1 Frequency of patients with systemic vasculitis over 3 years Year Frequency % p-value 2019 42 51.2 χ² = 12.463^a; p = 0.002 2020 23 28.0 2021 17 20.7 Total 82 100.0.

Oral manifestations of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: an update and narrative review of the literature

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a multisystem disorder of small blood vessels subdivided into granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). Oral manifestations (OMs) have been reported to include mucosal ulceration, gingival enlargement, alveolar bone necrosis, tooth loss, oro-antral communication, palatal perforation, parotitis, and candidal infection mainly in GPA. They may appear during the course of the disease, as a disease flare-up, or as the presenting sign. These OMs are often nonspecific and can mimic an array of conditions, therefore formulating a differential diagnosis can be challenging. This review updates the OMs of GPA, and, for the first, time includes OMs of other AAVs. It provides recommendations for the overall assessment and the diagnosis and management of all AAV OMs with considerations for treatment coordination. The role of oral health care providers in multidisciplinary care is highlighted.

Patterns of immunosuppressive drug use during pregnancy in women with systemic vasculitis: A nationwide population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Systemic vasculitis (SV) rarely affects women of childbearing age and only small series have been reported to date in pregnant patients. The discovery of an unplanned pregnancy can be an urgent cause for modifying treatments. This study aimed to describe immunosuppressive drugs use before, during and after pregnancy in women with SV.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study using the French nationwide claims database. We included all women with SV being pregnant between 2013 and 2018. Exposure of interest was defined as exposure to oral systemic or injectable immunosuppressive drug identified using out-hospital reimbursement data and in-hospital reimbursement for expensive drugs.

RESULTS

Of 3,246,454 pregnancies, 649 pregnancies were observed in 606 women with SV. Immunosuppressant and glucocorticoids use decreased before pregnancy and then increased after pregnancy (48.4%, 40.7%, 50.4%, respectively before, during, after). Prevalence of glucocorticoids use was broadly stable during pregnancy from 27.9% to 27.6% and 23.7% in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters, respectively, with a daily dose of about 5 mg. The number of patients treated with non-recommended immunosuppressant during pregnancy gradually decreased before pregnancy and then increased after delivery, whereas proportion of systemic vasculitis flare, estimated from the glucocorticoids daily dose, did not increase significantly during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

Immunosuppressants and glucocorticoids use decreased before pregnancy and remained stable throughout, suggesting a vasculitis control during this period. Our findings support the importance of pre-conceptional consultations to review medications, and switch not-recommended and teratogenic medications to drugs considered being safe during pregnancy.

Complications of Vascular Disease

Vascular diseases and their sequelae increase perioperative risk for noncardiac surgical patients. In this review, the authors discuss vascular diseases, their epidemiology and pathophysiology, risk stratification, and management strategies to reduce adverse perioperative outcomes.

2022 American College of Rheumatology/EULAR Classification Criteria for Giant Cell Arteritis

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate updated classification criteria for giant cell arteritis (GCA).

METHODS

Patients with vasculitis or comparator diseases were recruited into an international cohort. The study proceeded in 6 phases: 1) identification of candidate items, 2) prospective collection of candidate items present at the time of diagnosis, 3) expert panel review of cases, 4) data-driven reduction of candidate items, 5) derivation of a points-based risk classification score in a development data set, and 6) validation in an independent data set.

RESULTS

The development data set consisted of 518 cases of GCA and 536 comparators. The validation data set consisted of 238 cases of GCA and 213 comparators. Age ≥50 years at diagnosis was an absolute requirement for classification. The final criteria items and weights were as follows: positive temporal artery biopsy or temporal artery halo sign on ultrasound (+5); erythrocyte sedimentation rate ≥50 mm/hour or C-reactive protein ≥10 mg/liter (+3); sudden visual loss (+3); morning stiffness in shoulders or neck, jaw or tongue claudication, new temporal headache, scalp tenderness, temporal artery abnormality on vascular examination, bilateral axillary involvement on imaging, and fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography activity throughout the aorta (+2 each). A patient could be classified as having GCA with a cumulative score of ≥6 points. When these criteria were tested in the validation data set, the model area under the curve was 0.91 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.88-0.94) with a sensitivity of 87.0% (95% CI 82.0-91.0%) and specificity of 94.8% (95% CI 91.0-97.4%).

CONCLUSION

The 2022 American College of Rheumatology/EULAR GCA classification criteria are now validated for use in clinical research.

2022 American College of Rheumatology/EULAR classification criteria for giant cell arteritis

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate updated classification criteria for giant cell arteritis (GCA).

METHODS

Patients with vasculitis or comparator diseases were recruited into an international cohort. The study proceeded in six phases: (1) identification of candidate items, (2) prospective collection of candidate items present at the time of diagnosis, (3) expert panel review of cases, (4) data-driven reduction of candidate items, (5) derivation of a points-based risk classification score in a development data set and (6) validation in an independent data set.

RESULTS

The development data set consisted of 518 cases of GCA and 536 comparators. The validation data set consisted of 238 cases of GCA and 213 comparators. Age ≥50 years at diagnosis was an absolute requirement for classification. The final criteria items and weights were as follows: positive temporal artery biopsy or temporal artery halo sign on ultrasound (+5); erythrocyte sedimentation rate ≥50 mm/hour or C reactive protein ≥10 mg/L (+3); sudden visual loss (+3); morning stiffness in shoulders or neck, jaw or tongue claudication, new temporal headache, scalp tenderness, temporal artery abnormality on vascular examination, bilateral axillary involvement on imaging and fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography activity throughout the aorta (+2 each). A patient could be classified as having GCA with a cumulative score of ≥6 points. When these criteria were tested in the validation data set, the model area under the curve was 0.91 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.94) with a sensitivity of 87.0% (95% CI 82.0% to 91.0%) and specificity of 94.8% (95% CI 91.0% to 97.4%).

CONCLUSION

The 2022 American College of Rheumatology/EULAR GCA classification criteria are now validated for use in clinical research.

The neutrophil: A key resourceful agent in immune‐mediated vasculitis

The term "vasculitis" refers to a group of rare immune-mediated diseases characterized by the dysregulated immune system attacking blood vessels located in any organ of the body, including the skin, lungs, and kidneys. Vasculitides are classified according to the size of the vessel that is affected. Although this observation is not specific to small-, medium-, or large-vessel vasculitides, patients show a high circulating neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, suggesting the direct or indirect involvement of neutrophils in these diseases. As first responders to infection or inflammation, neutrophils release cytotoxic mediators, including reactive oxygen species, proteases, and neutrophil extracellular traps. If not controlled, this dangerous arsenal can injure the vascular system, which acts as the main transport route for neutrophils, thereby amplifying the initial inflammatory stimulus and the recruitment of immune cells. This review highlights the ability of neutrophils to "set the tone" for immune cells and other cells in the vessel wall. Considering both their long-established and newly described roles, we extend their functions far beyond their direct host-damaging potential. We also review the roles of neutrophils in various types of primary vasculitis, including immune complex vasculitis, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, polyarteritis nodosa, Kawasaki disease, giant cell arteritis, Takayasu arteritis, and Behçet's disease.

[18F]FDG PET/CT in Large Vessel Vasculitis: The Impact of Expertise and Confounders on Image Analysis

Background: Diagnosis of vasculitis is challenging. To avoid invasive approaches, clinical guidelines recommend the use of diagnostic imaging. This study aimed at evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) position emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in large vessel vasculitis (LVV) and how this is affected by inter-operator variability. Methods: A total of 279 patients who performed [18F]-FDG PET/CT for suspicion of LVV were retrospectively analyzed. We tested the qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis and parameters influencing image quality and interpretation. Exams were evaluated by two readers with different experience and their performance was compared. Results: LVV diagnosis was confirmed in 81 patients. [18F]-FDG PET/CT accuracy was 73% and 67% for the expert reader and less experienced reader, respectively. The expert reader overall performed better than the less experienced one, with higher accuracy in patients with normal BMI (77.3 vs. 63.8%), normal level of glycemia (73.3 vs. 65%), younger age (76.6 vs. 68.2%), and when no therapy was in course at time of imaging (76.7 vs. 66.7%). The diagnostic performance of both readers did not improve using semi-quantitative parameters. Conclusions: We confirmed the appropriateness of the recommended criteria for image acquisition and interpretation, underlining the importance of experience in image interpretation for the optimal diagnostic performance of [18F]FDG PET/CT in vasculitis.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients With ANCA-Associated Vasculitides in a Colombian Hospital

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides (AAVs) are uncommon systemic autoimmune diseases, of which few reports exist in Latin America. Our aim was to examine AAV evaluated in a high-complexity hospital in southwestern Colombia, with emphasis in severe forms.

METHODS

A medical records review study of 67 patients was performed, and data were collected from electronic registries. Moderate and severe AAVs were defined as the presence of life-threatening complications, unfavorable Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score outcomes, and hospitalization requirements at the time of diagnosis and by the last follow-up, between 2011 and 2019. Clinical manifestations, treatment, and outcomes were evaluated. The AAV subtypes were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 67 cases were included. The majority were female (n = 44, 65.67%), and the median age was 52 (40-64) years. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) was the most frequent with 42 patients (62.68%), followed by microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and eosinophilic GPA, with 15 patients (22.38%) and 10 patients (14.92%), respectively. Forty-four patients (65.67%) presented pulmonary symptoms. The highest Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score corresponded to MPA, with 21 (12-25) points. Fifteen patients (22.4%) were admitted to the intensive care unit throughout the course of the disease, of whom 10 had GPA. The longest stay and duration of mechanical ventilation were seen in MPA. The principal treatments were corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, and the main outcome was end-stage renal disease.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of AAV, most of cases corresponded to GPA, and pulmonary manifestations were the most common. Microscopic polyangiitis was the more severe subtype as it showed worse impairment in clinical characteristics and intensive care unit requirements.

Different epidemiologic profiles of systemic vasculitis between Brazil and Peru-preliminary results in two referral centers from both countries

Little is known about the epidemiology of systemic vasculitis in South American countries. The aim of this study is to compare the prevalence of systemic vasculitides in two vasculitis referral centers from Brazil and Peru. A cross-sectional study was performed and all patients above 18 years of age, with at least 6 months of follow-up and who met classification or diagnosis criteria for the most common forms of vasculitis, were included. A total of 562 patients with systemic vasculitis were analyzed, 345 (61.4%) from Brazil and 217 (38.6%) from Peru. The frequency of Behçet's disease (37.9% vs. 1.8%; p < 0.0001), Takayasu arteritis (TAK) (25.2% vs. 6.9%; p < 0.0001), and giant cell arteritis (9.8% vs. 0.9%; p < 0.0001) was higher in the Brazilian center than the Peruvian one. On the other hand, the frequency of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) (67.3% vs. 2.8%; p < 0.0001) and renal-limited vasculitis (2.8% vs. 0.0%; p = 0.009) was higher in the Peruvian center. No differences were found concerning other forms of vasculitis. At diagnosis, Brazilian patients with TAK, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and MPA were younger than Peruvian patients. Epidemiologic differences in the frequency of systemic vasculitis are observed between a vasculitis referral center from Brazil and another from Peru. Key Points • Significant differences are observed regarding the epidemiologic profile of systemic vasculitis between Brazil and Peru. • MPA is the predominant form of vasculitis in Peru while BD and TAK are the most frequent forms of vasculitis in Brazil. • The age at diagnosis of TAK, MPA, and GPA was lower in Brazilian patients than in Peruvian patients.

Understanding the Gut-Kidney Axis in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis: An Analysis of Gut Microbiota Composition

Increasing evidence suggested that gut microbiota played critical roles in developing autoimmune diseases. This study investigated the correlation between gut microbiota and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) with kidney injury. We analyzed the fecal samples of 23 AAV patients with kidney injury using a 16s RNA microbial profiling approach. The alpha-diversity indexes were significantly lower in AAV patients with kidney injury than healthy controls (Sobs P &lt; 0.001, Shannon P &lt; 0.001, Chao P &lt; 0.001). The beta-diversity difference demonstrated a significant difference among AAV patients with kidney injury, patients with lupus nephritis (LN), and health controls (ANOSIM, p = 0.001). Among these AAV patients, the Deltaproteobacteria, unclassified_o_Bacteroidales, Prevotellaceae, Desulfovibrionaceae Paraprevotella, and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group were correlated negatively with serum creatinine, and the proportion of Deltaproteobacteria, unclassified_o_Bacteroidales, Desulfovibrionaceae, Paraprevotella, and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group had a positive correlation with eGFR. In conclusion, the richness and diversity of gut microbiota were reduced in AAV patients with kidney injury, and the alteration of gut microbiota might be related with the severity of kidney injury of AAV patients. Targeted regulation of gut microbiota disorder might be a potential treatment for AAV patients with kidney injury.

[Primary vasculitides in childhood and adulthood]

Primary systemic vasculitides can be observed at any age. Some vasculitides occur preferentially in childhood, such as Kawasaki syndrome or immunoglobulin A (IgA) vasculitis, whereas others, such as giant cell arteritis, occur beyond the age of 50 years. Vasculitides occurring in childhood or adolescence and adulthood may have different phenotypes, different disease courses and outcomes depending on the age of manifestation. For example, those with Takayasu arteritis beginning in adolescence have different vascular involvement, a higher degree of systemic inflammation and a more aggressive course of disease than those with adult-onset disease. In contrast, IgA vasculitis is more severe in adults than in children. The causes for the age predilections and different age-dependent disease manifestations have not yet been clarified. The therapeutic principles are similar for vasculitides occurring in children or adolescents and adults. The first international evidence-based treatment recommendations are now available for juvenile vasculitides, although the evidence for certain forms of treatment is still very limited. The treatment of adult vasculitides can be guided by numerous national and international guidelines and recommendations. Many vasculitides carry a high risk of morbidity and mortality and the timely detection and treatment are therefore necessary. In this article, similarities and differences in the clinical presentations, treatment, courses and prognosis of vasculitides in children or adolescents and adults are discussed.

Epigenetic basis of diabetic vasculopathy

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) causes peripheral vascular disease because of which several blood-borne factors, including vital nutrients fail to reach the affected tissue. Tissue epigenome is sensitive to chronic hyperglycemia and is known to cause pathogenesis of micro- and macrovascular complications. These vascular complications of T2DM may perpetuate the onset of organ dysfunction. The burden of diabetes is primarily because of a wide range of complications of which nonhealing diabetic ulcers represent a major component. Thus, it is imperative that current research help recognize more effective methods for the diagnosis and management of early vascular injuries. This review addresses the significance of epigenetic processes such as DNA methylation and histone modifications in the evolution of macrovascular and microvascular complications of T2DM.

A glance into the future of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis

In the past decade, unprecedented progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAVs). International collaborations and input from several fields (e.g. immunology, rheumatology, and nephrology) have been critical for analyzing demographics, disease manifestations, and outcomes in clinical research studies. Such efforts opened new avenues for generating novel questions and rationale to design better clinical trials. In addition, clinical research has been a source of several biological discoveries and the starting point for knowledge seeking on the pathophysiology of AAV. Interestingly, the blending of clinical and basic research provides a platform for personalized medicine. Despite recent revisions on AAV classification, the incorporation of new findings on disease genetics and immunologic responses may soon result in changes in clinical practice. These advances will enhance the selection of more specific and targeted therapies. However, current unmet needs in the management of AAV are still sizable and heavily impact long-term survival. Especially, frequent relapses, damage accrual, and high morbidity contribute to poor outcomes. Finally, the lack of defined biomarkers for disease activity and the prognosis is a permanent challenge in AAV research. Our work provides an overview of the current state of the art in AAV literature and suggests bridges for the remaining knowledge gaps. It offers potential future directions for the clinical assessment, management, and research in the field toward a more personalized medicine approach.

CNS limited ANCA-associated vasculitis presenting as an isolated intraparenchymal mass

The authors report a 34-year-old male with antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis (AAV) which only involved the central nervous system and presented with an isolated mass in the left parietal lobe. Constitutional symptoms were lacking and the only symptom was progressive right-sided hemiparesis. Pathology suggested necrotizing vasculitis without eosinophils and granulomas. Cytoplasmic ANCA was elevated to 103.9 IU/ml (>5 times the upper limit) in serum. He obtained a regression following treatment of cyclophosphamide and steroids. Prompt diagnosis of AAV is essential since early and aggressive initiation of immunosuppressive therapy can avoid further neurological sequelae.

Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis: Toward an Individualized Approach

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV), characterized by the presence of autoantibodies to neutrophil cytoplasmic antigens, proteinase 3 (PR3), and myeloperoxidase (MPO), typically involves small blood vessels of the respiratory tract and kidneys. It includes distinct clinical syndromes: microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), and eosinophilic GPA. GPA is commonly associated with PR3-ANCA, while MPA is associated with MPO-ANCA. AAVs have a complex pathogenesis, influenced by genetics and environmental factors. There is evidence for a loss of tolerance to neutrophil proteins, which leads to ANCA-mediated neutrophil activation and injury, with effector T cells and activation of the alternative pathway of the complement also involved. Advances in immunosuppressive treatment have drastically reduced mortality of AAV in the past decades, opting for a more individualized approach. Careful assessment of ANCA specificity, disease activity, organ damage, and quality of life allows for a tailored immunosuppressive therapy. Contemporary AAV treatment is characterized by regimens that minimize the cumulative exposure to glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide, and novel approaches including complement blockage and immunosuppressant combinations might be the standard of care in the future. In this review, we examine the pathogenesis, clinical approach, and evidence-based treatment options for the management of AAV patients.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis and cardio vascular co-morbidity in Denmark. A registry-based study of 21 years of follow-up

OBJECTIVES

To describe the epidemiology of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in Denmark. To investigate if cardiovascular (CV) related comorbidity and death were increased among Danish AAV patients registered with a diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in Denmark. To investigate if there was a temporal relation between diagnosis of GPA and CV disease and death.

METHODS

A population-based cohort study was performed using the Danish Civil Registration System, the Danish National Patient Registry and the Danish Cause of Death Register in the period January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2015. Patients registered twice or more with a diagnosis of GPA were included. Annual incidence rate (IR), point prevalence (PP) and standardized mortality rate (SMR) were calculated. The entire adult population in Denmark served as control population. CV morbidity and death caused by CV disease was registered.

RESULTS

We identified 1829 individuals with GPA. The median annual IR was 20.5/1,000,000 and PP increased from 64 to 277/1,000,000 in 2015. Overall SMR was 2.14. Among patients with GPA 171 had a hospital diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Compared to the control population, the hazard ratio (HR) of AMI was 2.47 (95% CI 1.24-4.94) during the first 3 months after the GPA diagnosis. From 3 months to one year declining to 1.41 (95%CI 0.80-2.49) and after 10 years the HR was still slightly increased to 1.64 (95%CI 1.20-2.23). The risk of a diagnosis of heart failure (HF) was markedly increased with a HR at 7.22 (95% CI 4.55-11.46) during the first 3 months after a GPA diagnosis, after three months up to one year 2.94 (95%CI 1.87-4.69), and 2.07 (95% CI 1.54-2.78) after 10 years. The total number of CV deaths in the GPA cohort was 307. During the first three months after a GPA diagnosis, the HR was increased to 9.51 (95%CI 7.12-12.70) declining to 2.51 (95% CI 1.77-3.58) after one year, but still increased to 1.56 (95% CI 1.23-1.98) after 10 years. Powered by Editorial Manager® and ProduXion Manager® from Aries Systems Corporation.

CONCLUSION

In a population-based study on GPA, we found stable incidence, increasing prevalence and an overall increased SMR. The risk of CV comorbidity and of CV death among patients with a register diagnosis of GPA was increased.

Cocaine and Levamisole Induced Vasculitis

Levamisole adulterated cocaine is a rare cause of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis. It is increasingly diagnosed because of raised awareness; however, it is still underdiagnosed in part because of its rarity and patients not reporting cocaine use. Here we report a case of levamisole-induced vasculitis. We present a 48-year-old non-Hispanic white male with a past medical history significant for Crohn’s Disease and pneumonia who presented with acute bilateral ear pain and rash. His urinary drug screen was positive, which prompted suspicion of contamination and potential levamisole adulterated cocaine-associated vasculitis. A punch biopsy showed evidence of leukocytoclastic vasculitis and multiple fibrin thrombi further supporting contamination with levamisole. We believe this case highlights the importance of using patient history in guiding diagnostic testing in the setting of acute vasculitis. Once the history of illicit substance use was confirmed, our differential diagnosis and considerations for treatment significantly changed. 

Skin manifestations associated with systemic diseases - Part I

The skin demonstrates what is happening in the body in many diseases, as it reflects some internal processes on the surface. In this sense, skin as an organ, goes beyond its protective and barrier functions, as it provides clues for the identification of some systemic diseases. The dermatologist then raises diagnostic hypotheses for conditions related to all systems and refers them to the appropriate specialty. With easy access to examination by trained eyes and biopsies, the skin can present specific or non specific alterations on histopathology. In the first case this combination establishes the diagnosis of the disease itself. Non specific manifestations can occur in a variety of contexts and then histopathology is not specific of a particular disease. This article is divided into two parts that will cover large groups of diseases. In this first part, cutaneous manifestations of the main rheumatologic diseases are described, which are the ones with the greatest interface with dermatology. The authors also talk about vascular manifestations and granulomatous diseases. In the second part, endocrinological, hematological, oncological, cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal diseases, pruritus and its causes are discussed, and finally, the dermatological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection. The authors’ intention is that, by using direct and easily accessible language, aim to provide practical material for consultation and improvement to all dermatologists who recognize the importance of a comprehensive assessment of their patients.

ANCA-associated vasculitis in Caucasian and Hispanics of the Inland Empire of Southern California

INTRODUCTION

ANCA-associated vasculitis is a disease with high morbidity and mortality which has shown to have different phenotypes in different ethnic and racial groups. This disease has been most frequently studied in Caucasians. We studied a group in Southern California where the Hispanics make up half of the population. We believe there will be different phenotypes between the two.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 114 patients was conducted at two tertiary care centers between 2003 and 2019. Demographic data, ICU admission, ANCA antibody status, BVAS on presentation, VDI per the last clinic visit, the number of hospitalizations, the number of follow-up years, and treatment were recorded. We calculated odds ratios for the categorical data and ran independent sample T test for the continuous data with alpha equal to 0.05 for statistical significance.

RESULTS

Difference was found in antibody status, disease presentation, morbidity, and age at diagnosis. Hispanics had greater number of AAV flares despite BVAS and VDI being comparable. Caucasians had more frequent follow-up. Hispanics had a 4.39 increase in odds of being admitted to the ICU, a 1.33 increased odds of developing acute respiratory failure, and a 67% increased odds of developing hemoptysis or pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage. Further, Hispanics had a 1.22 increase in odds of having ESRD.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians treating Hispanic patients with AAV should have a high index of suspicion for severe disease in this patient population. Further, epidemiologic and disparities research should be conducted to evaluate the discrepancy in outcomes in these groups. Key Points • This is the first study to examine the phenotype and severity of ANCA associated vasculitis in Southern California, a population which is comprised largely of Hispanics. • Hispanics in this population were found to be more likely to be admitted to the ICU, have more flares, reach end-stage renal disease, have severe pulmonary manifestations, and had fewer outpatient follow-up visits than their Caucasian counterparts. • Clinicians should have a high suspicion for more severe disease in Hispanics in this region when compared to Caucasians. • More research is needed to assess the degree social determinants of health contribute to these findings and if progress can be made with decreasing health disparities between these populations in this disease.

Therapy of ocular complications in ANCA+ associated vasculitis

ANCA+ associated vasculitis (AAV) is a group of rare diseases with potentially vision-threatening complications. Ocular and orbital complications of these diseases are caused by vasculitis of the small vessels of the eye or by granulomatous mass formation. ANCA (anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) represent a key component of pathophysiological pathways as well as a diagnostic marker. Various manifestations are reported in literature, scleritis and episcleritis being the most common, followed by pseudotumor orbitae. In vision-threatening orbital or ocular disease, aggressive systemic treatment with a combination of high-dose glucocorticoids and either cyclophosphamide or rituximab is needed. Certain cases require locoregional surgical management to preserve ocular integrity or vision. Ocular involvement of AAV remains a challenge in clinical practice, requiring multi-specialty cooperation in order to ensure the best possible visual outcome.

Abbreviations: AAV = ANCA+ associated vasculitis, ANCA = anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, GPA = granulomatosis with polyangiitis, EGPA = eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, MPA = microscopic polyangiitis

Contribution of Janus-Kinase/Signal Transduction Activator of Transcription Pathway in the Pathogenesis of Vasculitis: A Possible Treatment Target in the Upcoming Future

Janus-kinase (JAK) and signal transduction activator of transcription (STAT) signal transduction pathway is involved in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes, including in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases. Data supporting the role of JAK/STAT in the development of vasculitis are limited and mostly focused on large vessel vasculitis and Behçet's disease. In this review, we provide a thorough picture of currently available evidence on the topic, gathered from in vitro experiments, animal models and human real-life data, analyzing the rationale for the use of JAK inhibitors for the management of vasculitis. Overall, despite a very strong biological and pathogenic basis, data are too few to recommend this therapeutic approach, beyond very severe and refractory forms of vasculitis. However, for the same reasons, a strong scientific effort in this direction is indeed worthwhile.

ANCA Testing in Clinical Practice: From Implementation to Quality Control and Harmonization

Analyses for the presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are important in the diagnostic work-up of patients with small vessel vasculitis. Since current immuno-assays are predominantly designed for diagnosis of patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), implementation in routine clinical practice, internal and external quality control, and harmonization are focused on this particular use. However, ANCA testing may also be relevant for monitoring therapy efficacy and for predicting a clinical relapse in AAV patients, and even for diagnostic purposes in other clinical situations. In the current review, the topics of implementation, quality control, and standardization vs. harmonization are discussed while taking into account the different applications of the ANCA assays in the context of AAV.

Hepatitis C virus-related cryoglobulinemic vasculitis

INTRODUCTION

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects about 170 million people worldwide. HCV is responsible for both hepatitis and extra-hepatic manifestations. Chronic infection has been shown to develop in about 70% of cases, and it can progress to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. Ten percent of HCV patients may develop extra-hepatic manifestations, including mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) and non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV) varies, ranging from mild-moderate clinical symptoms (purpura on the legs, asthenia and arthralgias) and chronic hepatitis to severe symptoms (ulcers on the legs, peripheral neuropathy, glomerulonephritis, low-grade NHL to life threatening complications (rapid progressive glomerulonephritis, gastrointestinal vasculitis, acute hyper-viscosity).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

CV is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Some studies have shown kidney involvement, cirrhosis, central nervous system involvement, and heart involvement as unfavorable prognostic factors. Many studies have demonstrated that, after antiviral therapy, CV can disappear along with HCV. After the introduction of the new direct antiviral agents (DAAs), the combination of pegylated interferon and ribavirin has been abandoned.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Several studies on new DAAs have reported remarkable 90% to 100% HCV eradication rates, regardless of genotype. Treatment with DAAs has comparable efficacy on viral eradication in CV patients but definite clinical improvements of vasculitis can be observed only in half the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with mild to moderate CV disease, DAAs therapy should be used as first line approach. In patients with severe vasculitis, DAAs therapy and a second-line treatment with RTX with or without aphaeresis are a required.

Associations between interleukin 18 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to vasculitis: A meta-analysis

Interleukin 18 (IL18), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, affects the development and progress of vasculitis. The production, expression, and function of this cytokine are affected by polymorphisms of promoter region of the IL18 gene. In this study, a meta-analysis of the associations between several IL18 polymorphisms and susceptibility to vasculitis was performed. Published literature from PubMed and Embase were retrieved. In total, nine studies comprising 1006 patients with vasculitis and 1499 controls combined, and the investigating the rs187238, rs194618, and rs360719 polymorphisms of the promoter region of the IL18 gene, were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated with fixed-effects model or random-effects model. The recessive model of the rs194618 polymorphism was found to be significantly associated with a high susceptibility to vasculitis (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.02–2.33, P = 0.04), especially in the Mongoloid race, where the A allele of rs194618 was associated with a low risk of the disease (OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.62–0.95, P = 0.01). By contrast, the rs187238 and rs360719 polymorphisms were not associated with this inflammatory condition. This meta-analysis showed that some IL18 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to vasculitis. (Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis 2020; 37 (2): 203-211)

ANCA-associated vasculitis

The anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAVs) are a group of disorders involving severe, systemic, small-vessel vasculitis and are characterized by the development of autoantibodies to the neutrophil proteins leukocyte proteinase 3 (PR3-ANCA) or myeloperoxidase (MPO-ANCA). The three AAV subgroups, namely granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis and eosinophilic GPA (EGPA), are defined according to clinical features. However, genetic and other clinical findings suggest that these clinical syndromes may be better classified as PR3-positive AAV (PR3-AAV), MPO-positive AAV (MPO-AAV) and, for EGPA, by the presence or absence of ANCA (ANCA⁺ or ANCA^-, respectively). Although any tissue can be involved in AAV, the upper and lower respiratory tract and kidneys are most commonly and severely affected. AAVs have a complex and unique pathogenesis, with evidence for a loss of tolerance to neutrophil proteins, which leads to ANCA-mediated neutrophil activation, recruitment and injury, with effector T cells also involved. Without therapy, prognosis is poor but treatments, typically immunosuppressants, have improved survival, albeit with considerable morbidity from glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressive medications. Current challenges include improving the measures of disease activity and risk of relapse, uncertainty about optimal therapy duration and a need for targeted therapies with fewer adverse effects. Meeting these challenges requires a more detailed knowledge of the fundamental biology of AAV as well as cooperative international research and clinical trials with meaningful input from patients.

Noninfectious Granulomatous Diseases of the Chest

Granulomas are pathologically defined as focal aggregations of activated macrophages, Langerhans cells, and lymphocytes. Granulomas form in the lungs when the immune system barricades the substances it perceives as foreign but is unable to remove. Granulomas manifest with numerous imaging appearances in thoracic radiology, and their presence is a nonspecific finding. Granulomatous lung diseases comprise multiple entities with variable clinical manifestations and outcomes. Their imaging findings are rarely specific and can mimic malignancies, often triggering an extensive diagnostic workup. Radiologists must be familiar with the clinical manifestations and imaging findings of these entities to generate appropriate differential diagnoses. This review describes the imaging manifestations of various noninfectious, necrotizing, and nonnecrotizing granulomatous diseases that primarily affect the thorax. ©RSNA, 2020.

Pathophysiology and therapy of systemic vasculitides

Systemic vasculitides represent uncommon conditions characterized by the inflammation of blood vessels that can lead to different complex disorders limited to one organ or potentially involving multiple organs and systems. Systemic vasculitides are classified according to the diameter of the vessel that they mainly affect (small, medium, large, or variable). The pathogenetic mechanisms of systemic vasculitides are still partly unknown, as well as their genetic basis. For most of the primary systemic vasculitides, a single gold standard test is not available, and diagnosis is often made after having ruled out other mimicking conditions. Current research has focused on new management protocol and therapeutic strategies aimed at improving long-term patient outcomes and avoiding progression to multiorgan failure with irreversible damage. In this narrative review, authors describe different forms of systemic vasculitides through a review of the literature, with the aim of highlighting the current knowledge and recent findings on etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy.

Randomized clinical trials in ANCA-associated vasculitis: a systematic analysis of the WHO - International Clinical Trials Registry Platform

BACKGROUND

The analysis of the main features of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) can inform future study design.

METHODS

We searched within the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform all registered RCTs on AAV from October 2008 to December 2018. Two reviewers selected studies according to pre-specified eligibility criteria. We retrieved information including countries, funding, design, sample sizes, eligibility criteria, primary outcomes (POs), and treatments.

RESULTS

Among the 40 RCTs identified, 22 (55%) were conducted in Europe, 29 (72,5%) in a single country, 14 (35%) were industry-funded. The median number of patients planned to enrol was 68 (IQR 36-138). Only 28% of RCTs targeted a single vasculitis, and ANCA negative patients were not included in about 40% of studies. Interventions investigated were mainly drugs given to induce (40%) or maintain (32.5%) remission. Eighty-five percent of POs were considered being 'patient-important', but discrepancies in definition of disease states, such as remission or relapse were observed. Glucocorticoids use was part of the PO in < 25% of studies. The number of trials targeting a single disease, non-industry funded, incorporating glucocorticoids in PO, as well as the planned sample size increased over time.

CONCLUSION

Despite the important achievements in the field, a better harmonization of eligibility, and outcome criteria across studies is an important objective to pursue in next future.

Gingival Swelling as the Initial Manifestation of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis

We describe a case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA; formerly named Wegener granulomatosis) that presented initially as florid areas of gingival swelling. The patient also had upper respiratory symptoms that included sinus congestion and cough of recent onset. Clinical-pathologic correlation aided the interpretation of non-specific biopsy findings and immediate referral to an appropriate medical specialist. Treatment was rendered at an early stage of disease with a good response to date. Review of the literature indicates that gingival swelling, often with the characteristic appearance of "strawberry gingivitis" may represent the initial sign of disease in 2% of patients with GPA. Biopsy of gingival lesions often shows a non-specific histologic appearance that should be interpreted in the context of the clinical appearance and pertinent medical history. The clinical investigations that lead to definitive diagnosis and treatment are presented to facilitate the management of this uncommon but potentially fatal condition.

The role of vascular ultrasound in managing giant cell arteritis in ophthalmology

Giant cell arteritis is the most common systemic vasculitis in the elderly and is a potentially life-threatening ophthalmic emergency that can result in irreversible blindness. Blindness is most commonly associated with acute onset, irreversible arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy. Without treatment, second eye involvement may occur, resulting in bilateral blindness. Patients with established visual loss are treated with high-dose steroids and generally undergo a temporal artery biopsy to confirm their diagnosis. A significant number of patients are, however, referred for urgent ophthalmology assessment from concerns about "incipient" arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy. Before visual loss, patients may experience a range of ocular symptoms related to ischemia. This generally leads to treatment with high-dose systemic steroid and an urgent request for a temporal artery biopsy. Temporal artery biopsy is considered as the standard investigation for confirmatory diagnosis. It is generally arranged as soon as possible, although it is often not carried out for several days, and there may also be delays in histopathological reporting. It is often perceived that the patient is "safe" while on corticosteroids, in that they are being treated to avoid visual loss. What is not acknowledged, however, is that, if patients do not have giant cell arteritis and are being treated "just in case," they will often require a tapering of oral steroids over several weeks, exposing them to unnecessary and significant side effects. In the rheumatology setting, vascular ultrasound has emerged as a safe and reliable alternative to temporal artery biopsy as a point of care diagnostic tool in the management of giant cell arteritis. Given an experienced sonographer and optimal equipment, a rapid diagnosis can be established in a fast-track clinic setting, taking into consideration clinical assessment, scoring, and ultrasound findings. A huge advantage of ultrasound is that it provides immediate information that can be used to inform treatment decisions. We explore the evidence that supports the incorporation of vascular ultrasound into the ophthalmology repertoire to make a more efficient diagnosis that is cost-effective and associated with better patient outcomes, including a potential reduction in loss of sight and avoidance of unnecessary long-term steroid treatment by early exclusion of mimics.