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Carol HA, Mayer AS, Zhang MS, Dang V, Varghese J, Martinez Z, Schneider C, Baker JE, Tsoukas P, Behrens EM, Cron RQ, Diorio C, Henderson LA, Schulert G, Lee P, Kernan KF, Canna SW. Hyperferritinemia screening to aid identification and differentiation of patients with hyperinflammatory disorders. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4523502. [PMID: 38978562 PMCID: PMC11230465 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4523502/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
High ferritin is an important and sensitive biomarker for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a diverse and deadly group of cytokine storm syndromes. Early action to prevent immunopathology in HLH often includes empiric immunomodulation, which can complicate etiologic work-up and prevent collection of early/pre-treatment research samples. To address this, we instituted an alert system where serum ferritin > 1000ng/mL triggered real-time chart review, assessment of whether the value reflected "inflammatory hyperferritnemia (IHF)", and biobanking of remnant samples from consenting IHF patients. We extracted relevant clinical data; periodically measured serum total IL-18, IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP), and CXCL9; retrospectively classified patients by etiology into infectious, rheumatic, or immune dysregulation; and subjected a subgroup of samples to a 96-analyte biomarker screen. 180 patients were identified, 30.5% of which had IHF. Maximum ferritin levels were significantly higher in patients with IHF than with either hemoglobinopathy or transplant, and highly elevated total IL-18 levels were distinctive to patients with Stills Disease and/or Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS). Multi-analyte analysis showed elevation in proteins associated with cytotoxic lymphocytes in all IHF samples when compared to healthy controls and depression of proteins such as ANGPT1 and VEGFR2 in samples from hyperferritinemic sepsis patients relative to non-sepsis controls. This single-center, real-time IFH screen proved feasible and efficient, validated prior observations about the specificity of IL-18, enabled early sample collection from a complex population, suggested a unique vascular biomarker signature in hyperferritinemic sepsis, and expanded our understanding of IHF heterogeneity.
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Dong Y, Wang T, Wu H. Heterogeneity of macrophage activation syndrome and treatment progression. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1389710. [PMID: 38736876 PMCID: PMC11082376 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1389710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a rare complication of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRD) characterized by a progressive and life-threatening condition with features including cytokine storm and hemophagocytosis. Predisposing factors are typically associated with microbial infections, genetic factors (distinct from typical genetically related hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)), and inappropriate immune system overactivation. Clinical features include unremitting fever, generalized rash, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, anemia, worsening liver function, and neurological involvement. MAS can occur in various AIIRDs, including but not limited to systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Kawasaki disease (KD), juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and Sjögren's syndrome (SS), etc. Although progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of MAS, it is important to recognize the differences between different diseases and the various treatment options available. This article summarizes the cell types and cytokines involved in MAS-related diseases, the heterogeneity, and treatment options, while also comparing it to genetically related HLH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanji Dong
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huaxiang Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Theoharides TC, Twahir A, Kempuraj D. Mast cells in the autonomic nervous system and potential role in disorders with dysautonomia and neuroinflammation. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2024; 132:440-454. [PMID: 37951572 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Mast cells (MC) are ubiquitous in the body, and they are critical for not only in allergic diseases but also in immunity and inflammation, including having potential involvement in the pathophysiology of dysautonomias and neuroinflammatory disorders. MC are located perivascularly close to nerve endings and sites such as the carotid bodies, heart, hypothalamus, the pineal gland, and the adrenal gland that would allow them not only to regulate but also to be affected by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). MC are stimulated not only by allergens but also many other triggers including some from the ANS that can affect MC release of neurosensitizing, proinflammatory, and vasoactive mediators. Hence, MC may be able to regulate homeostatic functions that seem to be dysfunctional in many conditions, such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, and Long-COVID syndrome. The evidence indicates that there is a possible association between these conditions and diseases associated with MC activation. There is no effective treatment for any form of these conditions other than minimizing symptoms. Given the many ways MC could be activated and the numerous mediators released, it would be important to develop ways to inhibit stimulation of MC and the release of ANS-relevant mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Assma Twahir
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
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Magnarelli A, Shalen J, Gutierrez MJ. Cytokine Storm Syndrome Responsive to IL-1 Inhibition in Trisomy 21. Case Rep Pediatr 2024; 2024:9946401. [PMID: 38577256 PMCID: PMC10994700 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9946401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cytokine storm syndromes (CSS) are life-threatening systemic inflammatory disorders caused by immune system dysregulation. They can lead to organ failure and are triggered by various factors, including infections, malignancy, inborn errors of immunity, and autoimmune conditions. Trisomy 21 (TS21), also known as Down syndrome, is a genetic disorder associated with immune dysfunction, increased infection susceptibility, and inflammation. While TS21 has been linked to infectious-triggered hyperinflammation, its role as a primary cause of CSS has not been confirmed. Case Presentation. We present a case of a 16-year-old male with TS21 with fever, rash, joint pain, and abdominal symptoms. Extensive investigations ruled out infections, autoimmune conditions, malignancies, and inborn errors of immunity as triggers for a CSS. The patient's symptoms improved with treatment using IL-1 inhibition and corticosteroids. Conclusions This case reinforces that TS21 is an immune dysregulation disorder and highlights the importance of considering CSS in TS21 patients, even when triggers are unclear. The positive response to IL-1 inhibition in this patient suggests that dysregulation of the IL-1 superfamily and the NLRP3 inflammasome may contribute to CSS in TS21. This finding raises the possibility of using IL-1 inhibition as a treatment approach for CSS in TS21 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Magnarelli
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julia Shalen
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maria J. Gutierrez
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Bloch C, Jais JP, Gil M, Boubaya M, Lepelletier Y, Bader-Meunier B, Mahlaoui N, Garcelon N, Lambotte O, Launay D, Larroche C, Lazaro E, Liffermann F, Lortholary O, Michel M, Michot JM, Morel P, Cheminant M, Suarez F, Terriou L, Urbanski G, Viallard JF, Alcais A, Fischer A, de Saint Basile G, Hermine O. Severe adult hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLHa) correlates with HLH-related gene variants. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 153:256-264. [PMID: 37678575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The contribution of genetic factors to the severity of adult hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLHa) remains unclear. OBJECTIVE We sought to assess a potential link between HLHa outcomes and HLH-related gene variants. METHODS Clinical characteristics of 130 HLHa patients (age ≥ 18 years and HScore ≥ 169) and genotype of 8 HLH-related genes (LYST, PRF1, UNC13-D, STX11, STXBP2, RAB27A, XIAP, and SAP) were collected. A total of 34 variants found in only 6 genes were selected on the basis of their frequency and criteria predicted to impair protein function. Severity was defined by refractory disease to HLH treatment, death, or transfer to an intensive care unit. RESULTS HLHa-associated diseases (ADs) were neoplasia (n = 49 [37.7%]), autoimmune/inflammatory disease (n = 33 [25.4%]), or idiopathic when no AD was identified (n = 48 [36.9%]). Infectious events occurred in 76 (58.5%) patients and were equally distributed in all ADs. Severe and refractory HLHa were observed in 80 (61.5%) and 64 (49.2%) patients, respectively. HScore, age, sex ratio, AD, and infectious events showed no significant association with HLHa severity. Variants were identified in 71 alleles and were present in 56 (43.1%) patients. They were distributed as follows: 44 (34.4%), 9 (6.9%), and 3 (2.3%) patients carrying 1, 2, and 3 variant alleles, respectively. In a logistic regression model, only the number of variants was significantly associated with HLHa severity (1 vs 0: 3.86 [1.73-9.14], P = .0008; 2-3 vs 0: 29.4 [3.62-3810], P = .0002) and refractoriness (1 vs 0: 2.47 [1.17-5.34], P = .018; 2-3 vs 0: 13.2 [2.91-126.8], P = .0003). CONCLUSIONS HLH-related gene variants may be key components to the severity and refractoriness of HLHa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Bloch
- Clinical Research Unit, Avicenne University Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France; Paris 13 University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, INSERM UMR1163/CNRS URL 8254, Paris, France; French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
| | - Jean Philippe Jais
- Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Biostatistic Unit, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases: Complex Predisposition, INSERM UMR1163, Paris, France
| | - Marine Gil
- Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Marouane Boubaya
- Clinical Research Unit, Avicenne University Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
| | - Yves Lepelletier
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, INSERM UMR1163/CNRS URL 8254, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Brigitte Bader-Meunier
- Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Department of Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Nizar Mahlaoui
- French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Department of Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | | | - Olivier Lambotte
- University Paris Saclay, AP-HP, Hôpital Bicêtre, IMVAHB UMR1184, INSERM, CEA, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - David Launay
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, Département de Médecine Interne et Immunologie Clinique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Auto-immunes Systémiques Rares du Nord et Nord-Ouest de France, Lille, France; INSERM INFINITE U1286, Lille, France
| | - Claire Larroche
- Internal Medicine Unit, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
| | - Estibaliz Lazaro
- Internal Medicine Department, Bordeaux Hospital University, Bordeaux, France; CNRS-UMR 5164 Immuno ConcEpT, Bordeaux, France
| | - Francois Liffermann
- Service de medecine interne-hematologie, Centre hospitalier de Dax, Dax, France
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre d'Infectiologie Necker Pasteur, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Marc Michel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre de Référence maladies rares sur les Cytopénies Auto-Immunes de l'adulte, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, AP-HP, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Jean-Marie Michot
- Gustave Roussy, University Paris Saclay, Drug Development Department, Villejuif, France
| | - Pierre Morel
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital Schaffner de Lens, Lens Cedex, France
| | - Morgane Cheminant
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, INSERM UMR1163/CNRS URL 8254, Paris, France; French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Clinical Hematology, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Felipe Suarez
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, INSERM UMR1163/CNRS URL 8254, Paris, France; French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Clinical Hematology, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Louis Terriou
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, Département de Médecine Interne et Immunologie Clinique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Auto-immunes Systémiques Rares du Nord et Nord-Ouest de France, Lille, France; INSERM INFINITE U1286, Lille, France
| | - Geoffrey Urbanski
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital, Angers, France; MitoLab Team, MITOVASC Institute, UMR CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, University of Angers, Angers, France
| | | | - Alexandre Alcais
- Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Biostatistic Unit, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases: Complex Predisposition, INSERM UMR1163, Paris, France
| | - Alain Fischer
- French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Department of Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Laboratory of Normal and Pathological Homeostasis of the Immune System, INSERM UMR1163, Paris, France; Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; College de France, Paris, France
| | - Geneviève de Saint Basile
- French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratory of Normal and Pathological Homeostasis of the Immune System, INSERM UMR1163, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, INSERM UMR1163/CNRS URL 8254, Paris, France; French National Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Clinical Hematology, Necker University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France.
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Landy E, Varghese J, Dang V, Szymczak-Workman A, Kane LP, Canna SW. Complementary HLH susceptibility factors converge on CD8 T-cell hyperactivation. Blood Adv 2023; 7:6949-6963. [PMID: 37738167 PMCID: PMC10690564 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023010502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) are life-threatening hyperinflammatory syndromes. Familial HLH is caused by genetic impairment of granule-mediated cytotoxicity (eg, perforin deficiency). MAS is linked to excess activity of the inflammasome-activated cytokine interleukin-18 (IL-18). Though individually tolerated, mice with dual susceptibility (Prf1⁻/⁻Il18tg; DS) succumb to spontaneous, lethal hyperinflammation. We hypothesized that understanding how these susceptibility factors synergize would uncover key pathomechanisms in the activation, function, and persistence of hyperactivated CD8 T cells. In IL-18 transgenic (Il18tg) mice, IL-18 effects on CD8 T cells drove MAS after a viral (lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus), but not innate (toll like receptor 9), trigger. In vitro, CD8 T cells also required T-cell receptor (TCR) stimulation to fully respond to IL-18. IL-18 induced but perforin deficiency impaired immunoregulatory restimulation-induced cell death (RICD). Paralleling hyperinflammation, DS mice displayed massive postthymic oligoclonal CD8 T-cell hyperactivation in their spleens, livers, and bone marrow as early as 3 weeks. These cells increased proliferation and interferon gamma production, which contrasted with increased expression of receptors and transcription factors associated with exhaustion. Broad-spectrum antibiotics and antiretrovirals failed to ameliorate the disease. Attempting to genetically "fix" TCR antigen-specificity instead demonstrated the persistence of spontaneous HLH and hyperactivation, chiefly on T cells that had evaded TCR fixation. Thus, drivers of HLH may preferentially act on CD8 T cells: IL-18 amplifies activation and demand for RICD, whereas perforin supplies critical immunoregulation. Together, these factors promote a terminal CD8 T-cell activation state, combining features of exhaustion and effector function. Therefore, susceptibility to hyperinflammation may converge on a unique, unrelenting, and antigen-dependent state of CD8 T-cell hyperactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Landy
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Graduate Program in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Jemy Varghese
- Rheumatology & Immune Dysregulation, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Vinh Dang
- Rheumatology & Immune Dysregulation, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Lawrence P. Kane
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Scott W. Canna
- Rheumatology & Immune Dysregulation, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Tsilioni I, Theoharides TC. Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Its Receptor Binding Domain Stimulate Release of Different Pro-Inflammatory Mediators via Activation of Distinct Receptors on Human Microglia Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6704-6714. [PMID: 37477768 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03493-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via its spike (S) protein binding to its surface receptor angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on target cells and results in acute symptoms involving especially the lungs known as COVID-19. However, increasing evidence indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection produces neuroinflammation associated with neurological, neuropsychiatric, and cognitive symptoms persists well past the resolution of the infection, known as post-COVID-19 sequalae or long-COVID. The neuroimmune mechanism(s) involved in long-COVID have not been adequately characterized. In this study, we show that recombinant SARS-CoV-2 full-length S protein stimulates release of pro-inflammatory IL-1b, CXCL8, IL-6, and MMP-9 from cultured human microglia via TLR4 receptor activation. Instead, recombinant receptor-binding domain (RBD) stimulates release of TNF-α, IL-18, and S100B via ACE2 signaling. These results provide evidence that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein contributes to neuroinflammation through different mechanisms that may be involved in CNS pathologies associated with long-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Tsilioni
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA
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Fugere T, Baltz A, Mukherjee A, Gaddam M, Varma A, Veeraputhiran M, Gentille Sanchez CG. Immune Effector Cell-Associated HLH-like Syndrome: A Review of the Literature of an Increasingly Recognized Entity. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5149. [PMID: 37958323 PMCID: PMC10647774 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15215149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since CAR-T cell therapy was initially approved in 2017, its use has become more prevalent and so have its side effects. CAR-T-related HLH, also named immune effector cell-associated HLH-like syndrome (IEC-HS), is a rare but fatal toxicity if not recognized promptly. We conducted a review of the literature in order to understand the prevalence of IEC-HS as well as clarify the evolution of the diagnostic criteria and treatment recommendations. IEC-HS occurrence varies between CAR-T cell products and the type of malignancy treated. Diagnosis can be challenging as there are no standardized diagnostic criteria, and its clinical features can overlap with cytokine release syndrome and active hematological disease. Suggested treatment strategies have been extrapolated from prior experience in HLH and include anakinra, corticosteroids and ruxolitinib. IEC-HS is a potentially fatal toxicity associated with CAR-T cell therapy. Early recognition with reliable diagnostic criteria and prompt implementation of treatment specific to IEC-HS is imperative for improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Fugere
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (A.B.); (A.M.); (M.G.); (A.V.); (M.V.); (C.G.G.S.)
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9
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Snipaitiene A, Sirataviciene A, Varoneckaite L, Sileikiene R, Jankauskaite L. Platelet role in the prediction of MIS-C severity. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1153623. [PMID: 37360365 PMCID: PMC10285299 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1153623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) has been reported as one of the cytokine storm syndromes associated with COVID-19. Despite the several proposed diagnostic criteria, MIS-C remains a diagnostic and clinical challenge. Recent studies have demonstrated that platelets (PLTs) play a crucial role in COVID-19 infection and its prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the clinical importance of PLT count and PLT indices in predicting MIS-C severity in children. Patients and methods We conducted a retrospective single-center study at our university hospital. A total of 43 patients diagnosed with MIS-C during a 2-year period (from October 2020 to October 2022) were included in the study. MIS-C severity was evaluated according to the composite severity score. Results Half of the patients were treated in the pediatric intensive care unit. No single clinical sign was associated with a severe condition, except for shock (p = 0.041). All the routine biomarkers, such as complete blood count (CBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP), used for MIS-C diagnosis were significant in predicting MIS-C severity. Single PLT parameters, such as mean PLT volume, plateletcrit, or PLT distribution width, did not differ between the severity groups. However, we found that a combination of PLT count and the previously mentioned PLT indices had the potential to predict MIS-C severity. Conclusions Our study emphasizes the importance of PLT in MIS-C pathogenesis and severity. It revealed that together with routine biomarkers (e.g., CBC and CRP), it could highly improve the prediction of MIS-C severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ausra Snipaitiene
- Pediatric Department, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Pediatric Department, Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Aurelija Sirataviciene
- Pediatric Department, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Pediatric Department, Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Leila Varoneckaite
- Pediatric Department, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Pediatric Department, Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Rima Sileikiene
- Pediatric Department, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Pediatric Department, Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Lina Jankauskaite
- Pediatric Department, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Pediatric Department, Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Institute of Physiology and Pharmacology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
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10
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Diorio C, Teachey DT, Canna SW. Cytokine Storm Syndromes in Pediatric Patients. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2023; 11:1636-1644. [PMID: 36990432 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Cytokine storm syndromes (CSS) represent a diverse group of disorders characterized by severe overactivation of the immune system. In the majority of patients, CSS arise from a combination of host factors, including genetic risk and predisposing conditions, and acute triggers such as infections. CSS present differently in adults than in children, who are more likely to present with monogenic forms of these disorders. Individual CSS are rare, but in aggregate represent an important cause of severe illness in both children and adults. We present 3 rare, illustrative cases of CSS in pediatric patients that describe the spectrum of CSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Diorio
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa; Immune Dysregulation Frontier Program, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa.
| | - David T Teachey
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa; Immune Dysregulation Frontier Program, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa
| | - Scott W Canna
- Immune Dysregulation Frontier Program, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa; Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa
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11
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Tsilioni I, Theoharides TC. Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Stimulates Secretion of Chymase, Tryptase, and IL-1β from Human Mast Cells, Augmented by IL-33. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119487. [PMID: 37298438 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via its spike (S) protein binding to its surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and results in the production of multiple proinflammatory cytokines, especially in the lungs, leading to what is known as COVID-19. However, the cell source and the mechanism of secretion of such cytokines have not been adequately characterized. In this study, we used human cultured mast cells that are plentiful in the lungs and showed that recombinant SARS-CoV-2 full-length S protein (1-10 ng/mL), but not its receptor-binding domain (RBD), stimulates the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) as well as the proteolytic enzymes chymase and tryptase. The secretion of IL-1β, chymase, and tryptase is augmented by the co-administration of interleukin-33 (IL-33) (30 ng/mL). This effect is mediated via toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) for IL-1β and via ACE2 for chymase and tryptase. These results provide evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 S protein contributes to inflammation by stimulating mast cells through different receptors and could lead to new targeted treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Tsilioni
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL 33759, USA
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12
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Lee PY, Cron RQ. The Multifaceted Immunology of Cytokine Storm Syndrome. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:1015-1024. [PMID: 37011407 PMCID: PMC10071410 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Cytokine storm syndromes (CSSs) are potentially fatal hyperinflammatory states that share the underpinnings of persistent immune cell activation and uninhibited cytokine production. CSSs can be genetically determined by inborn errors of immunity (i.e., familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis) or develop as a complication of infections, chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g., Still disease), or malignancies (e.g., T cell lymphoma). Therapeutic interventions that activate the immune system such as chimeric Ag receptor T cell therapy and immune checkpoint inhibition can also trigger CSSs in the setting of cancer treatment. In this review, the biology of different types of CSSs is explored, and the current knowledge on the involvement of immune pathways and the contribution of host genetics is discussed. The use of animal models to study CSSs is reviewed, and their relevance for human diseases is discussed. Lastly, treatment approaches for CSSs are discussed with a focus on interventions that target immune cells and cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui Y. Lee
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Randy Q. Cron
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Children’s of Alabama, University of Alabama Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL
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13
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Cytokine nanosponges suppressing overactive macrophages and dampening systematic cytokine storm for the treatment of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Bioact Mater 2023; 21:531-546. [PMID: 36185750 PMCID: PMC9508173 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a highly fatal condition with the positive feedback loop between continued immune cell activation and cytokine storm as the core mechanism to mediate multiple organ dysfunction. Inspired by macrophage membranes harbor the receptors with special high affinity for proinflammation cytokines, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophage membrane-coated nanoparticles (LMNP) were developed to show strong sponge ability to both IFN-γ and IL-6 and suppressed overactivation of macrophages by inhibiting JAK/STAT signaling pathway both in vitro and in vivo. Besides, LMNP also efficiently alleviated HLH-related symptoms including cytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly and hepatorenal dysfunction and save the life of mouse models. Furthermore, its sponge effect also worked well for five human HLH samples in vitro. Altogether, it's firstly demonstrated that biocompatible LMNP could dampen HLH with high potential for clinical transformation, which also provided alternative insights for the treatment of other cytokine storm-mediated pathologic conditions such as COVID-19 infection and cytokine releasing syndrome during CAR-T therapy. LMNP functioned better as a multiple-cytokine sponging tool when compared with conventional macrophage coated nanoparticles. LMNP sponged inflammation cytokines and suppressed macrophage overactivation by inhibiting JAK/STAT signaling pathway. LMNP calmed down systematic cytokine storm and dampened HLH in HLH mice models. LMNP also worked well in sponging cytokines in human HLH samples which indicated high potential of clinical transformation.
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14
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Theoharides TC, Kempuraj D. Role of SARS-CoV-2 Spike-Protein-Induced Activation of Microglia and Mast Cells in the Pathogenesis of Neuro-COVID. Cells 2023; 12:688. [PMID: 36899824 PMCID: PMC10001285 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). About 45% of COVID-19 patients experience several symptoms a few months after the initial infection and develop post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), referred to as "Long-COVID," characterized by persistent physical and mental fatigue. However, the exact pathogenetic mechanisms affecting the brain are still not well-understood. There is increasing evidence of neurovascular inflammation in the brain. However, the precise role of the neuroinflammatory response that contributes to the disease severity of COVID-19 and long COVID pathogenesis is not clearly understood. Here, we review the reports that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can cause blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and damage neurons either directly, or via activation of brain mast cells and microglia and the release of various neuroinflammatory molecules. Moreover, we provide recent evidence that the novel flavanol eriodictyol is particularly suited for development as an effective treatment alone or together with oleuropein and sulforaphane (ViralProtek®), all of which have potent anti-viral and anti-inflammatory actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
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15
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Akinosoglou K, Kotsaki A, Gounaridi IM, Christaki E, Metallidis S, Adamis G, Fragkou A, Fantoni M, Rapti A, Kalomenidis I, Chrysos G, Boni G, Kainis I, Alexiou Z, Castelli F, Serino FS, Bakakos P, Nicastri E, Tzavara V, Safarika A, Ioannou S, Dagna L, Dimakou K, Tzatzagou G, Chini M, Bassetti M, Kotsis V, Angheben A, Tsoukalas G, Selmi C, Spiropoulou OM, Samarkos M, Doumas M, Damoraki G, Masgala A, Papanikolaou I, Argyraki A, Negri M, Leventogiannis K, Sympardi S, Gatselis NK, Petrakis V, Netea MG, Panagopoulos P, Sakka V, Milionis H, Dalekos GN, Giamarellos-Bourboulis EJ. Efficacy and safety of early soluble urokinase plasminogen receptor plasma-guided anakinra treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia: A subgroup analysis of the SAVE-MORE randomised trial. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 56:101785. [PMID: 36590789 PMCID: PMC9791950 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SAVE-MORE trial demonstrated that anakinra treatment in COVID-19 pneumonia with plasma soluble urokinase plasminogen activator (suPAR) levels of 6 ng/mL or more was associated with 0.36 odds for a worse outcome compared to placebo when expressed by the WHO-Clinical Progression Scale (CPS) at day 28. Herein, we report the results of subgroup analyses and long-term outcomes. METHODS This prospective, double-blind, randomised clinical trial, recruited patients with a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, in need of hospitalisation, lower respiratory tract infection and plasma suPAR ≥6 ng/mL from 37 academic and community hospitals in Greece and Italy. Patients were 1:2 randomised to subcutaneous treatment with placebo or anakinra (100 mg) once daily for 10 days. Pre-defined subgroups of Charlson's comorbidity index (CCI), sex, age, level of suPAR, and time from symptom onset were analysed for the primary endpoint (overall comparison of distribution of frequencies of the scores from the WHO-CPS between treatments on day 28), by multivariable ordinal regression analysis in the intention to treat (ITT) population. This trial is registered with the EU Clinical Trials Register (2020-005828-11) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04680949). FINDINGS Patients were enrolled between 23 December 2020 and 31 March 2021; 189 patients in the placebo arm and 405 patients in the anakinra arm were the ITT population. Multivariable analysis showed that anakinra treatment was accompanied by significantly lower odds for worse outcome compared to placebo at day 28 for all studied subgroups (CCI ≥ 2, OR: 0.34, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.22-0.50; CCI < 2, OR: 0.38, 95% CI 0.21-0.68; suPAR > 9 ng/mL, OR: 0.35, 95% CI 0.19-0.66; suPAR 6-9 ng/mL, OR: 0.35, 95% CI 0.24-0.52; patients ≥65 years, OR: 0.41, 95% CI 0.25-0.66; and patients <65 years, OR: 0.29, 95% CI 0.19-0.45). The benefit was uniform, irrespective of the time from start of symptoms until the start of the study drug. At days 60 and 90, anakinra treatment had odds of 0.40 (95% CI 0.28-0.57) and 0.46 (95% CI 0.32-0.67) respectively, for a worse outcome compared to placebo. The costs of general ward stay, ICU stay, and drugs were lower with anakinra treatment. INTERPRETATION Anakinra represents an important therapeutic tool in the management of COVID-19 that may be administered in all subgroups of patients; benefits are maintained until day 90. FUNDING Hellenic Institute for the Study of Sepsis; Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antigone Kotsaki
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Hellenic Institute for the Study of Sepsis, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna-Maria Gounaridi
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eirini Christaki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Simeon Metallidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Adamis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, G. Gennimatas General Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Massimo Fantoni
- Dipartimento Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche - Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Aggeliki Rapti
- Second Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sotiria General Hospital of Chest Diseases, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Kalomenidis
- First Department of Critical Care and Pulmonary Medicine, Medical School, Evangelismos General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Chrysos
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Tzaneio General Hospital of Piraeus, Athens, Greece
| | - Gloria Boni
- Hospital Pharmacy, IRCCS Hospital Sacro Cuore, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
- IRCSS Sacro Cuore Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Ilias Kainis
- Tenth Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sotiria General Hospital of Chest Diseases of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Zoi Alexiou
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Thriasio General Hospital of Eleusis, Athens, Greece
| | - Francesco Castelli
- Spedali Civili, Brescia ASST Spedali Civili Hospital, University of Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Petros Bakakos
- First Department of Chest Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Emanuele Nicastri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Spallanzani Institute of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vassiliki Tzavara
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Korgialeneion-Benakeion General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Asimina Safarika
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Hellenic Institute for the Study of Sepsis, Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Ioannou
- Department of Therapeutics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele & Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Katerina Dimakou
- Fifth Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sotiria General Hospital of Chest Diseases, Athens, Greece
| | - Glykeria Tzatzagou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Chini
- Third Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases Unit, Korgialeneion-Benakeion General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Matteo Bassetti
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS and Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vasileios Kotsis
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andrea Angheben
- Department of Infectious – Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCSS Sacro Cuore Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - George Tsoukalas
- Fourth Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sotiria General Hospital of Chest Diseases, Athens, Greece
| | - Carlo Selmi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20072, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, Milan 20089, Italy
| | - Olga-Maria Spiropoulou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Asklipieio General Hospital of Voula, Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Samarkos
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Doumas
- Second Department of Propedeutic Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Damoraki
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Masgala
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Konstantopouleio General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Ilias Papanikolaou
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, General Hospital of Kerkyra, Kerkyra, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Argyraki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sotiria General Hospital of Chest Diseases, Athens, Greece
| | - Marcantonio Negri
- Dipartimento Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche - Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Konstantinos Leventogiannis
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Hellenic Institute for the Study of Sepsis, Athens, Greece
| | - Styliani Sympardi
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Thriasio General Hospital of Eleusis, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K. Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Full Member of the European Reference Network on Hepatological Disases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
| | - Vasileios Petrakis
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis 68100, Greece
| | - Mihai G. Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University, Nijmegen 6500, Netherlands
- Department of Immunology and Metabolism, Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Periklis Panagopoulos
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis 68100, Greece
| | - Vissaria Sakka
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Haralampos Milionis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - George N. Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Full Member of the European Reference Network on Hepatological Disases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
| | - Evangelos J. Giamarellos-Bourboulis
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Hellenic Institute for the Study of Sepsis, Athens, Greece
- Corresponding author. 4th Department of Internal Medicine, ATTIKON University Hospital, 1 Rimini Street, Athens 12462, Greece.
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16
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Abstract
Cytokine storm syndrome (CSS), which is frequently fatal, has garnered increased attention with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. A variety of hyperinflammatory conditions associated with multiorgan system failure can be lumped under the CSS umbrella, including familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and secondary HLH associated with infections, hematologic malignancies, and autoimmune and autoinflammatory disorders, in which case CSS is termed macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Various classification and diagnostic CSS criteria exist and include clinical, laboratory, pathologic, and genetic features. Familial HLH results from cytolytic homozygous genetic defects in the perforin pathway employed by cytotoxic CD8 T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells. Similarly, NK cell dysfunction is often present in secondary HLH and MAS, and heterozygous mutations in familial HLH genes are frequently present. Targeting overly active lymphocytes and macrophages with etoposide and glucocorticoids is the standard for treating HLH; however, more targeted and safer anticytokine (e.g., anti-interleukin-1, -6) approaches are gaining traction as effective alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy Q Cron
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA; .,Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gaurav Goyal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - W Winn Chatham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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17
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Double-barrel targeting of IFN-γ to treat hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 151:106-107. [PMID: 36347304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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18
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Volfovitch Y, Tsur AM, Gurevitch M, Novick D, Rabinowitz R, Mandel M, Achiron A, Rubinstein M, Shoenfeld Y, Amital H. The intercorrelations between blood levels of ferritin, sCD163, and IL-18 in COVID-19 patients and their association to prognosis. Immunol Res 2022; 70:817-828. [PMID: 36222965 PMCID: PMC9555272 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-022-09312-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with immune dysregulation, severe respiratory failure, and multiple organ dysfunction caused by a cytokine storm involving high blood levels of ferritin and IL-18. Furthermore, there is a resemblance between COVID-19 and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) characterized by high concentrations of soluble CD163 (sCD163) receptor and IL-18. High levels of ferritin, IL-18, and sCD163 receptor are associated with “hyperferritinemic syndrome”, a family of diseases that appears to include COVID-19. In this retrospective cohort study, we tested the association and intercorrelations in the serum levels of ferritin, sCD163, and IL-18 and their impact on the prognosis of COVID-19. We analyzed data of 70 hospitalized patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The levels of sCD163, ferritin, and IL-18 were measured and the correlation of these parameters with the respiratory deterioration and overall 30-day survival was assessed. Among the 70 patients, 60 survived 30 days from hospitalization. There were substantial differences between the subjects who were alive following 30 days compared to those who expired. The differences were referring to lymphocyte and leukocyte count, CRP, D-dimer, ferritin, sCD163, and IL-18. Results showed high levels of IL-18 (median, 444 pg/mL in the survival group compared with 916 pg/mL in the mortality group, p-value 8.54 × 10–2), a statistically significant rise in levels of ferritin (median, 484 ng/mL in the survival group compared with 1004 ng/mL in the mortality group p-value, 7.94 × 10–3), and an elevated value of in sCD163 (mean, 559 ng/mL in the survival group compared with 840 ng/mL in the mortality group, p-value 1.68 × 10–2). There was no significant correlation between the rise of ferritin and the levels sCD163 or IL-18. Taken together, sCD163, ferritin, and IL-18 were found to correlate with the severity of COVID-19 infection. Although these markers are associated with COVID-19 and might contribute to the cytokine storm, no intercorrelation was found among them. It cannot be excluded though that the results depend on the timing of sampling, assuming that they play distinct roles in different stages of the disease course. The data represented herein may provide clinical benefit in improving our understanding of the pathological course of the disease. Furthermore, measuring these biomarkers during the disease progression may help target them at the right time and refine the decision-making regarding the requirement for hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Volfovitch
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Avishai M Tsur
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.,The Israel Defense Forces Medical Corps, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Department of Military Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michael Gurevitch
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Daniela Novick
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Roy Rabinowitz
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mathilda Mandel
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Anat Achiron
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Menachem Rubinstein
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.,I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia.,Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.,Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, H. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Howard Amital
- Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.
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19
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Tziastoudi M, Cholevas C, Stefanidis I, Theoharides TC. Genetics of COVID-19 and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: a systematic review. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2022; 9:1838-1857. [PMID: 36204816 PMCID: PMC9639636 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID‐19 and ME/CFS present with some similar symptoms, especially physical and mental fatigue. In order to understand the basis of these similarities and the possibility of underlying common genetic components, we performed a systematic review of all published genetic association and cohort studies regarding COVID‐19 and ME/CFS and extracted the genes along with the genetic variants investigated. We then performed gene ontology and pathway analysis of those genes that gave significant results in the individual studies to yield functional annotations of the studied genes using protein analysis through evolutionary relationships (PANTHER) VERSION 17.0 software. Finally, we identified the common genetic components of these two conditions. Seventy‐one studies for COVID‐19 and 26 studies for ME/CFS were included in the systematic review in which the expression of 97 genes for COVID‐19 and 429 genes for ME/CFS were significantly affected. We found that ACE, HLA‐A, HLA‐C, HLA‐DQA1, HLA‐DRB1, and TYK2 are the common genes that gave significant results. The findings of the pathway analysis highlight the contribution of inflammation mediated by chemokine and cytokine signaling pathways, and the T cell activation and Toll receptor signaling pathways. Protein class analysis revealed the contribution of defense/immunity proteins, as well as protein‐modifying enzymes. Our results suggest that the pathogenesis of both syndromes could involve some immune dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tziastoudi
- Department of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Cholevas
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Stefanidis
- Department of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, USA.,Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Departments of Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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20
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Taylor ML, Hoyt KJ, Han J, Benson L, Case S, Chandler MT, Chang MH, Platt C, Cohen EM, Day-Lewis M, Dedeoglu F, Gorman M, Hausmann JS, Janssen E, Lee PY, Lo J, Priebe GP, Lo MS, Meidan E, Nigrovic PA, Roberts JE, Son MBF, Sundel RP, Alfieri M, Yeun JC, Shobiye DM, Degar B, Chang JC, Halyabar O, Hazen MM, Henderson LA. An Evidence-Based Guideline Improves Outcomes for Patients With Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and Macrophage Activation Syndrome. J Rheumatol 2022; 49:1042-1051. [PMID: 35840156 PMCID: PMC9588491 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.211219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare clinical outcomes in children with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) who were managed before and after implementation of an evidence-based guideline (EBG). METHODS A management algorithm for MAS-HLH was developed at our institution based on literature review, expert opinion, and consensus building across multiple pediatric subspecialties. An electronic medical record search retrospectively identified hospitalized patients with MAS-HLH in the pre-EBG (October 15, 2015, to December 4, 2017) and post-EBG (January 1, 2018, to January 21, 2020) time periods. Predetermined outcome metrics were evaluated in the 2 cohorts. RESULTS After the EBG launch, 57 children were identified by house staff as potential patients with MAS-HLH, and rheumatology was consulted for management. Ultimately, 17 patients were diagnosed with MAS-HLH by the treating team. Of these, 59% met HLH 2004 criteria, and 94% met 2016 classification criteria for MAS complicating systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. There was a statistically significant reduction in mortality from 50% before implementation of the EBG to 6% in the post-EBG cohort (P = 0.02). There was a significant improvement in time to 50% reduction in C-reactive protein level in the post-EBG vs pre-EBG cohorts (log-rank P < 0.01). There were trends toward faster time to MAS-HLH diagnosis, faster initiation of immunosuppressive therapy, shorter length of hospital stay, and more rapid normalization of MAS-HLH-related biomarkers in the patients post-EBG. CONCLUSION While the observed improvements may be partially attributed to advances in treatment of MAS-HLH that have accumulated over time, this analysis also suggests that a multidisciplinary treatment pathway for MAS-HLH contributed meaningfully to favorable patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L Taylor
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kacie J Hoyt
- K.J. Hoyt, MSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, and Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, Virginia
| | - Joseph Han
- J. Han, BS, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Leslie Benson
- L. Benson, MD, M. Gorman, MD, Division of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Siobhan Case
- S. Case, MD, M.H. Chang, MD, PhD, P.A. Nigrovic, MD, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mia T Chandler
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Margaret H Chang
- S. Case, MD, M.H. Chang, MD, PhD, P.A. Nigrovic, MD, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Craig Platt
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ezra M Cohen
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Megan Day-Lewis
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Fatma Dedeoglu
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mark Gorman
- L. Benson, MD, M. Gorman, MD, Division of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan S Hausmann
- J.S. Hausmann, MD, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Erin Janssen
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pui Y Lee
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeffrey Lo
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gregory P Priebe
- G.P. Priebe, MD, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mindy S Lo
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Esra Meidan
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Peter A Nigrovic
- S. Case, MD, M.H. Chang, MD, PhD, P.A. Nigrovic, MD, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, and Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jordan E Roberts
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mary Beth F Son
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert P Sundel
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria Alfieri
- M. Alfieri, MPH, J. Chan Yeun, MSPH, D.M. Shobiye, MPH, Department of Pediatric Quality Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jenny Chan Yeun
- M. Alfieri, MPH, J. Chan Yeun, MSPH, D.M. Shobiye, MPH, Department of Pediatric Quality Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Damilola M Shobiye
- M. Alfieri, MPH, J. Chan Yeun, MSPH, D.M. Shobiye, MPH, Department of Pediatric Quality Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Barbara Degar
- B. Degar, MD, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joyce C Chang
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Olha Halyabar
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Melissa M Hazen
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lauren A Henderson
- M.L. Taylor, BS, M.T. Chandler, MD, C. Platt, MD, PhD, E.M. Cohen, MD, M. Day-Lewis, RN, MSN, CPNP, F. Dedeoglu, MD, E. Janssen, MD, PhD, P.Y. Lee, MD, PhD, J. Lo, MD, M.S. Lo, MD, PhD, E. Meidan, MD, J.E. Roberts, MD, M.B.F. Son, MD, R.P. Sundel, MD, J.C. Chang, MD, MSCE, O. Halyabar, MD, M.M. Hazen, MD, L.A. Henderson, MD, MMSc, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts;
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21
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Cron RQ. Biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs to treat multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2022; 34:274-279. [PMID: 35791863 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a postinfectious complication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection primarily affecting children. MIS-C shares features with Kawasaki disease (KD) and cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) frequently requiring intensive care support. Although intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and glucocorticoids (GCs) are effective therapeutics for most, refractory MIS-C is treated with various biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). Understanding the clinical features, inflammatory cytokines, and genetic associations provides rationale for bDMARD in treating severe MIS-C. RECENT FINDINGS Children with MIS-C have clinical KD features and often present in hypovolemic and cardiogenic shock requiring volume repletion (gastrointestinaI losses) and cardiac pressor support (epinephrine). Investigation of MIS-C serum reveals elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-18, interferon gamma (IFNγ), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)], but to a lesser extent than other established CSS. Gene sequencing of MIS-C children identifies heterozygous mutations in CSS associated genes. Treatment of refractory (IVIg and GC) MIS-C with bDMARDs to IL-1, IL-6, and TNF is efficacious for survival as well as resolving cardiac and coronary artery inflammation. SUMMARY MIS-C is a postinfectious complication of SARS-CoV-2 resembling KD and CSS, both genetically and by pro-inflammatory cytokines. MIS-C that is refractory to IVIg and GC is routinely responsive to bDMARDs targeting IL-1, IL-6, and TNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy Q Cron
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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22
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Kassianidis G, Siampanos A, Poulakou G, Adamis G, Rapti A, Milionis H, Dalekos GN, Petrakis V, Sympardi S, Metallidis S, Alexiou Z, Gkavogianni T, Giamarellos-Bourboulis EJ, Theoharides TC. Calprotectin and Imbalances between Acute-Phase Mediators Are Associated with Critical Illness in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094894. [PMID: 35563282 PMCID: PMC9099708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The trajectory from moderate and severe COVID-19 into acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) necessitating mechanical ventilation (MV) is a field of active research. We determined serum levels within 24 h of presentation of 20 different sets of mediators (calprotectin, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, interferons) of patients with COVID-19 at different stages of severity (asymptomatic, moderate, severe and ARDS/MV). The primary endpoint was to define associations with critical illness, and the secondary endpoint was to identify the pathways associated with mortality. Results were validated in serial measurements of mediators among participants of the SAVE-MORE trial. Levels of the proinflammatory interleukin (IL)-8, IL-18, matrix metalloproteinase-9, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B and calprotectin (S100A8/A9) were significantly higher in patients with ARDS and MV. Levels of the anti-inflammatory IL-1ra and IL-33r were also increased; IL-38 was increased only in asymptomatic patients but significantly decreased in the more severe cases. Multivariate ordinal regression showed that pathways of IL-6, IL-33 and calprotectin were associated with significant probability for worse outcome. Calprotectin was serially increased from baseline among patients who progressed to ARDS and MV. Further research is needed to decipher the significance of these findings compared to other acute-phase reactants, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) or ferritin, for the prognosis and development of effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Kassianidis
- Intensive Care Unit, Korgialeneion-Benakeion Athens General Hospital, 115 26 Athens, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Siampanos
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, ATTIKON University General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 1 Rimini Street, 124 62 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Garyphalia Poulakou
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - George Adamis
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, G. Gennimatas General Hospital of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Aggeliki Rapti
- 2nd Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sotiria General Hospital of Chest Diseases, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Haralampos Milionis
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Ioannina, 455 00 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - George N. Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National and European Expertise Center in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 412 21 Larissa, Greece;
| | - Vasileios Petrakis
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 681 00 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Styliani Sympardi
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, Thriasio General Hospital of Eleusis, 196 00 Magoula, Greece;
| | - Symeon Metallidis
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 546 21 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Zoi Alexiou
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Thriasio General Hospital of Eleusis, 196 00 Magoula, Greece;
| | - Theologia Gkavogianni
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, ATTIKON University General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 1 Rimini Street, 124 62 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Evangelos J. Giamarellos-Bourboulis
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, ATTIKON University General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 1 Rimini Street, 124 62 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (T.G.)
- Correspondence: (E.J.G.-B.); (T.C.T.); Tel.: +30-210-58-31-994 (E.J.G.-B.); Fax: +30-210-53-26446 (E.J.G.-B.)
| | - Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL 33759, USA
- Correspondence: (E.J.G.-B.); (T.C.T.); Tel.: +30-210-58-31-994 (E.J.G.-B.); Fax: +30-210-53-26446 (E.J.G.-B.)
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23
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Rossano M, Rogani G, D’Errico MM, Cucchetti M, Baldo F, Torreggiani S, Beretta G, Lanni S, Petaccia A, Agostoni C, Filocamo G, Minoia F. Infection-Triggered Hyperinflammatory Syndromes in Children. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9040564. [PMID: 35455608 PMCID: PMC9025340 DOI: 10.3390/children9040564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
An association between infectious diseases and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) has been reported, yet the exact role of infection in MAS development is still unclear. Here, a retrospective analysis of the clinical records of patients with rheumatic diseases complicated with MAS who were treated in a pediatric tertiary care center between 2011 and 2020 was performed. Any infection documented within the 30 days preceding the onset of MAS was reported. Out of 125 children in follow-up for systemic rheumatic diseases, 12 developed MAS, with a total of 14 episodes. One patient experienced three episodes of MAS. Clinical and/or laboratory evidence of infection preceded the onset of MAS in 12 events. Clinical features, therapeutic strategies, and patient outcomes were described. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of infection as a relevant trigger for MAS development in children with rheumatic conditions. The pathogenetic pathways involved in the cross-talk between uncontrolled inflammatory activity and the immune response to infection deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rossano
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Greta Rogani
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Maria Maddalena D’Errico
- Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy;
| | - Martina Cucchetti
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesco Baldo
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Sofia Torreggiani
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Gisella Beretta
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Stefano Lanni
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Antonella Petaccia
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Carlo Agostoni
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
| | - Giovanni Filocamo
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesca Minoia
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano IT and University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.R.); (G.R.); (M.C.); (F.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.); (S.L.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (F.M.)
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Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Gene Variants in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030417. [PMID: 35336791 PMCID: PMC8945334 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Children with a COVID-19 infection are at risk of developing a novel syndrome called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). This disease state is characterized by a high level of inflammation. It is unclear why only some children infected with SARS-CoV-2 later develop MIS-C. There may be genetic risk factors for MIS-C development, but none have previously been reported. We report genetic findings in a group of children with MIS-C. Abstract Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) affects few children previously infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In 2020, 45 children admitted to our hospital for MIS-C underwent genetic screening with a commercial 109-immune-gene panel. Thirty-nine children were diagnosed with MIS-C, and 25.4% of the 39 MIS-C patients harbored rare heterozygous missense mutations either in primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (pHLH) genes (LYST, STXBP2, PRF1, UNC13D, AP3B1) or the HLH-associated gene DOCK8 (four variants). We demonstrate that foamy virus introduction of cDNA for the four DOCK8 variants into human NK-92 natural killer (NK) cells led to decreased CD107a expression (degranulation) and decreased NK cell lytic function in vitro for each variant. Heterozygous carriers of missense mutations in pHLH genes and DOCK8 may serve as risk factors for development of MIS-C among children previously infected with SARS-CoV-2.
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Setiadi A, Zoref-Lorenz A, Lee CY, Jordan MB, Chen LYC. Malignancy-associated haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Lancet Haematol 2022; 9:e217-e227. [PMID: 35101205 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(21)00366-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an inflammatory syndrome that can occur with cancer (malignancy-associated HLH) or with immune-activating therapies for cancer. Patients with lymphoma appear to be at particularly high risk for malignancy-associated HLH. The familial form of HLH is characterised by uncontrolled activation of macrophages and cytotoxic T cells, which can be identified by genetics or specific immune markers. However, the pathophysiology of malignancy-associated HLH is not well understood, and distinguishing pathological immune activation from the laboratory and clinical abnormalities seen in cancer and cancer treatment is challenging. Emerging diagnostic tools, such as serum cytokine or chemokine concentrations, flow cytometry, and other functional measures, are discussed. Mortality remains high with current approaches. Targeted therapy, including blockade of specific cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and IFNγ, and inhibition of the JAK-STAT pathways might improve outcomes for some patients. Finally, we discuss a framework for thinking of malignancy-associated HLH within a larger umbrella concept of cytokine storm syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audi Setiadi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Adi Zoref-Lorenz
- Hematology Institute, Meir Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christina Y Lee
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael B Jordan
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Immune Deficiency, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Luke Y C Chen
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Health Education Scholarship, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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26
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Theoharides TC. Could SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Be Responsible for Long-COVID Syndrome? Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:1850-1861. [PMID: 35028901 PMCID: PMC8757925 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02696-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via its spike protein binding to its surface receptor on target cells and results in acute symptoms involving especially the lungs known as COVID-19. However, increasing evidence indicates that many patients develop a chronic condition characterized by fatigue and neuropsychiatric symptoms, termed long-COVID. Most of the vaccines produced so far for COVID-19 direct mammalian cells via either mRNA or an adenovirus vector to express the spike protein, or administer recombinant spike protein, which is recognized by the immune system leading to the production of neutralizing antibodies. Recent publications provide new findings that may help decipher the pathogenesis of long-COVID. One paper reported perivascular inflammation in brains of deceased patients with COVID-19, while others showed that the spike protein could damage the endothelium in an animal model, that it could disrupt an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and that it can cross the BBB resulting in perivascular inflammation. Moreover, the spike protein appears to share antigenic epitopes with human molecular chaperons resulting in autoimmunity and can activate toll-like receptors (TLRs), leading to release of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, some antibodies produced against the spike protein may not be neutralizing, but may change its conformation rendering it more likely to bind to its receptor. As a result, one wonders whether the spike protein entering the brain or being expressed by brain cells could activate microglia, alone or together with inflammatory cytokines, since protective antibodies could not cross the BBB, leading to neuro-inflammation and contributing to long-COVID. Hence, there is urgent need to better understand the neurotoxic effects of the spike protein and to consider possible interventions to mitigate spike protein-related detrimental effects to the brain, possibly via use of small natural molecules, especially the flavonoids luteolin and quercetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review is meant to describe the genetic associations with pediatric severe COVID-19 pneumonia and the postinfectious complication of the multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Multiple genetic approaches have been carried out, primarily in adults with extrapolation to children, including genome-wide association studies (GWAS), whole exome and whole genome sequencing (WES/WGS), and target gene analyses. RECENT FINDINGS Data from adults with severe COVID-19 have identified genomic regions (human leukocyte antigen locus and 3p21.31) as potential risk factors. Genes related to viral entry into cells (ABO blood group locus, ACE2, TMPRS22) have been linked to severe COVID-19 patients by GWAS and target gene approaches. Type I interferon (e.g. IFNAR2) and antiviral gene (e.g. TLR7) associations have been identified by several genetic approaches in severe COVID-19. WES has noted associations with several immune regulatory genes (e.g. SOCS1). Target gene approaches have identified mutations in perforin-mediated cytolytic pathway genes in children and adults with severe COVID-19 and children with MIS-C. SUMMARY Several genetic associations have been identified in individuals with severe COVID-19 and MIS-C via various genetic approaches. Broadly speaking, COVID-19 genetic associations include genes involved with antiviral functions, viral cell entry, immune regulation, chemotaxis of white blood cells, and lymphocyte cytolytic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant S. Schulert
- Division of Rheumatology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Sydney A. Blum
- Division of Rheumatology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
| | - Randy Q. Cron
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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28
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Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases: A Growing Family of Disorders of Overlapping Immune Dysfunction. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2021; 48:371-395. [PMID: 34798958 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Systemic autoinflammatory diseases (SAIDs) are characterized by unprovoked exaggerated inflammation on a continuum from benign recurrent oral ulceration to life-threatening strokes or amyloidosis, with renal failure as a potential sequela. The ability to discriminate these diagnoses rests on the genetic and mechanistic defect of each disorder, considering potential overlapping autoinflammation, autoimmunity, and immune deficiency. A comprehensive and strategic genetic investigation influences management as well as the consequential expected prognoses in these subsets of rare diseases. The ever-expanding therapeutic armamentarium reflects international collaborations, which will hasten genetic discovery and consensus-driven treatment.
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29
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Reiff DD, Stoll ML, Cron RQ. Precision medicine in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-has the time arrived? THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2021; 3:e808-e817. [PMID: 38297525 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(21)00252-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug therapies for treating children and adolescents with chronic arthritis (ie, juvenile idiopathic arthritis [JIA]) has revolutionised care and outcomes. The biologic revolution continues to expand, with ever-changing immunological targets coming to market after basic research and clinical trials. The first class of biologics that was beneficial for children with JIA was tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. If used early and aggressively, TNF inhibitors are capable of inducing disease remission for most of the seven subtypes of JIA, with the exception of systemic JIA (which more frequently responds to interleukin [IL]-1 or IL-6 inhibition). Nevertheless, there are still subsets of patients with JIA with disease that is difficult to treat or who develop extra-articular features that require a different therapeutic approach. Although finding an effective biological therapy for individual children with JIA can be trial and error, ongoing research and clinical trials are providing insight into a more personalised approach to care. In addition, redefining the JIA classification, in part based on shared similarities with various adult arthritides, could allow for extrapolation of knowledge from studies in adults with chronic arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D Reiff
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Matthew L Stoll
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Randy Q Cron
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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30
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Mansouri V, Yazdanpanah N, Rezaei N. The immunologic aspects of cytokine release syndrome and graft versus host disease following CAR T cell therapy. Int Rev Immunol 2021; 41:649-668. [PMID: 34607523 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2021.1984449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells are the pioneers of cancer immunotherapy, which to this date have several FDA-approved products. They have been substantially improved since their first introduction in 1993 and have shown promising results regardless of their inevitable side effects. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS), the most common toxicity after CAR T cell treatment, is affiliated to a systemic inflammation through surge of cytokines, mainly IL-6, IL-1, and INF-γ. Furthermore, difference between histocompatibility antigens activates the graft versus host disease (GvHD) effect of the allogenic CAR T cells against the host cells. Immunological reactions induced by CAR T cells in the form of CRS or GvHD is necessary for fostering good responses, while excess reactions can potentially threaten patient life. In this review, we first describe the history, applications, and structure of CAR T cells, followed by a comprehensive review of CRS regarding its definition, management, and immunological aspects. Finally, we discuss about the clinical aspects of CRS and GvHD after CAR T cell therapy and how to harness anti-tumoral effects, while mitigating the adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Mansouri
- Gene Therapy Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Yazdanpanah
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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31
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Andersson U. Hyperinflammation: On the pathogenesis and treatment of macrophage activation syndrome. Acta Paediatr 2021; 110:2717-2722. [PMID: 33934408 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a subtype of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) diseases. The underlying mechanism of these life-threatening disorders is impaired granule-mediated cytotoxicity exerted by natural killer (NK) cells and T lymphocytes. This function is meant for elimination of virus-infected cells, malignant cells and to prevent exaggerated immune responses. The normal outcome after an attack by NK or cytotoxic T cells is apoptosis of the target cell. This prevents cytotoxic inflammatory responses in adjacent tissues which occur after lytic cell death. Extensive cell lysis can even produce a cytokine storm, as evidenced in MAS. Programmed proinflammatory lytic cell death, pyroptosis, caused by activated inflammasomes is central in the pathogenesis of MAS. Pyroptosis mediates IL-18 cytokine release, which robustly stimulates NK and T cells to produce IFN-γ, the key macrophage-activating signal which initiates a burst of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Lytic cell death also mediates a discharge of the prototype alarmin high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1), a proinflammatory molecule present in all cells and that mediates the pathogenesis of MAS as outlined here. Therapeutic options to control causal factors operating in the pathogenesis of MAS are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulf Andersson
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital Stockholm Sweden
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32
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Theoharides TC. Ways to Address Perinatal Mast Cell Activation and Focal Brain Inflammation, including Response to SARS-CoV-2, in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2021; 11:860. [PMID: 34575637 PMCID: PMC8465360 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to increase, but no distinct pathogenesis or effective treatment are known yet. The presence of many comorbidities further complicates matters, making a personalized approach necessary. An increasing number of reports indicate that inflammation of the brain leads to neurodegenerative changes, especially during perinatal life, "short-circuiting the electrical system" in the amygdala that is essential for our ability to feel emotions, but also regulates fear. Inflammation of the brain can result from the stimulation of mast cells-found in all tissues including the brain-by neuropeptides, stress, toxins, and viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, leading to the activation of microglia. These resident brain defenders then release even more inflammatory molecules and stop "pruning" nerve connections, disrupting neuronal connectivity, lowering the fear threshold, and derailing the expression of emotions, as seen in ASD. Many epidemiological studies have reported a strong association between ASD and atopic dermatitis (eczema), asthma, and food allergies/intolerance, all of which involve activated mast cells. Mast cells can be triggered by allergens, neuropeptides, stress, and toxins, leading to disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and activation of microglia. Moreover, many epidemiological studies have reported a strong association between stress and atopic dermatitis (eczema) during gestation, which involves activated mast cells. Both mast cells and microglia can also be activated by SARS-CoV-2 in affected mothers during pregnancy. We showed increased expression of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-18 and its receptor, but decreased expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-38 and its receptor IL-36R, only in the amygdala of deceased children with ASD. We further showed that the natural flavonoid luteolin is a potent inhibitor of the activation of both mast cells and microglia, but also blocks SARS-CoV-2 binding to its receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). A treatment approach should be tailored to each individual patient and should address hyperactivity/stress, allergies, or food intolerance, with the introduction of natural molecules or drugs to inhibit mast cells and microglia, such as liposomal luteolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA 02111, USA; ; Tel.: +1-(617)-636-6866; Fax: +1-(617)-636-2456
- School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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33
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Reiff DD, Cron RQ. Performance of Cytokine Storm Syndrome Scoring Systems in Pediatric COVID-19 and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. ACR Open Rheumatol 2021; 3:820-826. [PMID: 34431626 PMCID: PMC8652831 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate pediatric patients using existing macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) scoring systems to determine how these systems identify patients with cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) in the setting of a multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) and active coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection. Methods Hospitalized pediatric patients with MIS‐C and active COVID‐19 infection at a single institution were identified. Infectious data, clinical findings, and laboratory values were collected, and patients were stratified by disease severity. Eight historically used scoring systems for MAS, HLH, and CSS were examined in the cohort of patients with MIS‐C and pediatric COVID‐19. Results The HLH‐2004 criteria and HScore did not identify any patients as having CSS on admission, with only one patient with COVID‐19 meeting criteria at peak disease severity. The 2016 systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA)/MAS criteria, ferritin/erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) ratio, and COVID‐19 CSS Quick Score most frequently identified CSS in this population and distinguished between COVID‐19 and MIS‐C hyperinflammation. The 2019 MAS/sJIA (MS) score and the COVID‐19–associated hyperinflammatory syndrome (cHIS) criteria were less likely to identify CSS, as the MS score overestimated CSS and the cHIS resulted in similar scores regardless of severity or disease type. The Caricchio COVID‐Cytokine Storm (COVID‐CS) criteria identified patients with COVID‐19 frequently but was less useful in MIS‐C because of its COVID‐19‐specific criteria. Conclusion MIS‐C and pediatric COVID‐19 result in relatively unique CSSs and patterns of inflammation. Existing scoring systems for CSSs likely do not capture the full breadth of this disease process in MIS‐C and pediatric COVID‐19.
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Scharf C, Schroeder I, Paal M, Winkels M, Irlbeck M, Zoller M, Liebchen U. Can the cytokine adsorber CytoSorb ® help to mitigate cytokine storm and reduce mortality in critically ill patients? A propensity score matching analysis. Ann Intensive Care 2021; 11:115. [PMID: 34292421 PMCID: PMC8295971 DOI: 10.1186/s13613-021-00905-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A cytokine storm is life threatening for critically ill patients and is mainly caused by sepsis or severe trauma. In combination with supportive therapy, the cytokine adsorber Cytosorb® (CS) is increasingly used for the treatment of cytokine storm. However, it is questionable whether its use is actually beneficial in these patients. Methods Patients with an interleukin-6 (IL-6) > 10,000 pg/ml were retrospectively included between October 2014 and May 2020 and were divided into two groups (group 1: CS therapy; group 2: no CS therapy). Inclusion criteria were a regularly measured IL-6 and, for patients allocated to group 1, CS therapy for at least 90 min. A propensity score (PS) matching analysis with significant baseline differences as predictors (Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, renal replacement therapy, IL-6, lactate and norepinephrine demand) was performed to compare both groups (adjustment tolerance: < 0.05; standardization tolerance: < 10%). U-test and Fisher’s-test were used for independent variables and the Wilcoxon test was used for dependent variables. Results In total, 143 patients were included in the initial evaluation (group 1: 38; group 2: 105). Nineteen comparable pairings could be formed (mean initial IL-6: 58,385 vs. 59,812 pg/ml; mean SAPS II: 77 vs. 75). There was a significant reduction in IL-6 in patients with (p < 0.001) and without CS treatment (p = 0.005). However, there was no significant difference (p = 0.708) in the median relative reduction in both groups (89% vs. 80%). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the relative change in C-reactive protein, lactate, or norepinephrine demand in either group and the in-hospital mortality was similar between groups (73.7%). Conclusion Our study showed no difference in IL-6 reduction, hemodynamic stabilization, or mortality in patients with Cytosorb® treatment compared to a matched patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Scharf
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
| | - Ines Schroeder
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Paal
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Winkels
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Irlbeck
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Zoller
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Uwe Liebchen
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
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35
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Nissen CB, Sciascia S, de Andrade D, Atsumi T, Bruce IN, Cron RQ, Hendricks O, Roccatello D, Stach K, Trunfio M, Vinet É, Schreiber K. The role of antirheumatics in patients with COVID-19. LANCET RHEUMATOLOGY 2021; 3:e447-e459. [PMID: 33817665 PMCID: PMC8009617 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(21)00062-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in more than 2 million deaths globally. Two interconnected stages of disease are generally recognised; an initial viral stage and a subsequent immune response phase with the clinical characteristics of hyperinflammation associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Therefore, many immune modulators and immunosuppressive drugs, which are widely used in rheumatological practice, have been proposed as treatments for patients with moderate or severe COVID-19. In this Review, we provide an overview of what is currently known about the efficacy and safety of antirheumatic therapies for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Dexamethasone has been shown to reduce COVID-19 related mortality, interleukin-6 inhibitors to reduce risk of cardiovascular or respiratory organ support, and baricitinib to reduce time to recovery in hospitalised patients requiring oxygen support. Further studies are needed to identify whether there is any role for glucocorticoids in patients with less severe COVID-19. Although evidence on the use of other antirheumatic drugs has suggested some benefits, results from adequately powered clinical trials are urgently needed. The heterogeneity in dosing and the absence of uniform inclusion criteria and defined stage of disease studied in many clinical trials have affected the conclusions and comparability of trial results. However, after the success of dexamethasone in proving the anti-inflammatory hypothesis, the next 12 months will undoubtedly bring further clarity about the clinical utility and optimal dose and timing of other anti-rheumatic drugs in the management of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoffer B Nissen
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, University of Southern Denmark, Sønderborg, Danmark
| | - Savino Sciascia
- Center of Research of Immunopathology and Rare Diseases, Coordinating Center of Piemonte and Aosta Valley Network for Rare Diseases, Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Danieli de Andrade
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tatsuya Atsumi
- Department of Rheumatology, Endocrinology and Nephrology, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ian N Bruce
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Medicine and Health, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Randy Q Cron
- Division of Rheumatology, Children's of Alabama and Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Oliver Hendricks
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, University of Southern Denmark, Sønderborg, Danmark.,Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Dario Roccatello
- Center of Research of Immunopathology and Rare Diseases, Coordinating Center of Piemonte and Aosta Valley Network for Rare Diseases, Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Ksenija Stach
- Fifth Department of Medicine and European Center for Angioscience, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Mattia Trunfio
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino at Infectious Diseases Unit, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Torino, Italy
| | - Évelyne Vinet
- Division of Rheumatology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Karen Schreiber
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, University of Southern Denmark, Sønderborg, Danmark.,Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Theoharides TC, Cholevas C, Polyzoidis K, Politis A. Long-COVID syndrome-associated brain fog and chemofog: Luteolin to the rescue. Biofactors 2021; 47:232-241. [PMID: 33847020 PMCID: PMC8250989 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 leads to severe respiratory problems, but also to long-COVID syndrome associated primarily with cognitive dysfunction and fatigue. Long-COVID syndrome symptoms, especially brain fog, are similar to those experienced by patients undertaking or following chemotherapy for cancer (chemofog or chemobrain), as well in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). The pathogenesis of brain fog in these illnesses is presently unknown but may involve neuroinflammation via mast cells stimulated by pathogenic and stress stimuli to release mediators that activate microglia and lead to inflammation in the hypothalamus. These processes could be mitigated by phytosomal formulation (in olive pomace oil) of the natural flavonoid luteolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of ImmunologyTufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
- School of Graduate Biomedical SciencesTufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Internal MedicineTufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PsychiatryTufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- BrainGateThessalonikiGreece
| | | | | | - Antonios Politis
- First Department of PsychiatryEginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian UniversityAthensGreece
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Atzeni F, Masala IF, Rodríguez-Carrio J, Ríos-Garcés R, Gerratana E, La Corte L, Giallanza M, Nucera V, Riva A, Espinosa G, Cervera R. The Rheumatology Drugs for COVID-19 Management: Which and When? J Clin Med 2021; 10:783. [PMID: 33669218 PMCID: PMC7919806 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While waiting for the development of specific antiviral therapies and vaccines to effectively neutralize the SARS-CoV2, a relevant therapeutic strategy is to counteract the hyperinflammatory status, characterized by an increase mainly of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, which hallmarks the most severe clinical cases. 'Repurposing' immunomodulatory drugs and applying clinical management approved for rheumatic diseases represents a game-changer option. In this article, we will review the drugs that have indication in patients with COVID-19, including corticosteroids, antimalarials, anti-TNF, anti-IL-1, anti-IL-6, baricitinib, intravenous immunoglobulins, and colchicine. The PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for English-language papers concerning COVID-19 treatment published between January 2020 and October 2020. Results were summarized as a narrative review due to large heterogeneity among studies. In the absence of specific treatments, the use of immunomodulatory drugs could be advisable in severe COVID-19 patients, but clinical outcomes are still suboptimal. An early detection and treatment of the complications combined with a multidisciplinary approach could allow a better recovery of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Atzeni
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Experimental and Internal Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (E.G.); (L.L.C.); (M.G.); (V.N.)
- Full Professor, Head of Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria 1, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Javier Rodríguez-Carrio
- Department of Functional Biology, Immunology Area, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, 33044 Oviedo, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33044 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Roberto Ríos-Garcés
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.R.-G.); (G.E.); (R.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Gerratana
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Experimental and Internal Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (E.G.); (L.L.C.); (M.G.); (V.N.)
| | - Laura La Corte
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Experimental and Internal Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (E.G.); (L.L.C.); (M.G.); (V.N.)
| | - Manuela Giallanza
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Experimental and Internal Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (E.G.); (L.L.C.); (M.G.); (V.N.)
| | - Valeria Nucera
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Experimental and Internal Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (E.G.); (L.L.C.); (M.G.); (V.N.)
| | - Agostino Riva
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, University of Milan, 20127 Milan, Italy;
| | - Gerard Espinosa
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.R.-G.); (G.E.); (R.C.)
| | - Ricard Cervera
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.R.-G.); (G.E.); (R.C.)
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