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Juncker AS, Appenzeller S, de Souza JM. Central Nervous System Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases-Diagnosis and Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1044. [PMID: 39204149 PMCID: PMC11357437 DOI: 10.3390/ph17081044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in autoimmune rheumatic diseases represents a significant challenge for clinicians across all specialties. While most reviews on the subject focus on neurological manifestations within a specific rheumatic disease, few descriptions shift from neurological clinical syndromes to achieve rheumatological diagnoses. This narrative review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the diagnosis and management of CNS manifestations occurring in the most prevalent rheumatic conditions in adults. We searched the MEDLINE database using the terms "central nervous system", "rheumatic diseases", "systemic lupus erythematosus", "rheumatoid arthritis", "Sjögren syndrome", and "vasculitis". The search strategy included review articles from 2019 to 2024, published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. We explored the pathophysiological mechanisms linking autoimmunity to CNS pathology, emphasizing the role of syndromic reasoning, autoantibody profiles, and imaging modalities as tools for diagnosis and determination of inflammatory activity. The review also discusses differential diagnoses through a stepwise approach to neurological syndromes, summarized in diagnostic flowcharts, and presents updated treatment options. Although our approach is primarily semiology-based, the complexity of the subject invites future endeavors involving new technologies, such as functional MRI, MR spectroscopy, and nuclear medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Santana Juncker
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-881, Brazil;
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13000-000, Brazil
| | - Simone Appenzeller
- Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Traumatology, School of Medical Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, Brazil;
| | - Jean Marcos de Souza
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-881, Brazil;
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Hasegawa Y, Arinuma Y, Muramatsu T, Kondou J, Matsueda Y, Kanayama Y, Ino K, Tanaka T, Wada T, Oku K, Yamaoka K. The pathogenic role of lupus-specific autoantibodies and Interleukin-6 on demyelination of the brainstem and spinal cord in systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2023; 32:401-410. [PMID: 36629369 DOI: 10.1177/09612033231151600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Demyelinating syndromes that result in brainstem and/or spinal cord lesions similar to those observed in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) as neuropsychiatric syndromes in systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) occasionally develop in patients with SLE. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) interleukin (IL)-6 is a known biomarker for NMOSD; however, its application in patients with SLE with brainstem and/or spinal cord lesions is unknown. Additionally, the breakdown of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity by autoantibodies is another mechanism of NMOSD; however, it is not elucidated in SLE. Therefore, this study was designed to clarify the use of CSF IL-6 and investigate whether autoantibodies contribute to BBB breaches and the development of brainstem and/or spinal cord lesions. METHODS Data from patients with NPSLE who had NMOSD-like demyelinating lesions in the central nervous system (CNS), including brainstem and/or spinal cord lesions, were retrospectively analyzed. We retrospectively investigated the interval changes in CSF IL-6 and clinical and serological factors related to BBB permeability using CSF/serum albumin ratio (QAlb). RESULTS Twelve patients with NPSLE who had demyelinating lesions in the brainstem and/or spinal cord were recruited. Before treatment, CSF IL-6 levels were 29.1 pg/mL and significantly decreased to 3.8 pg/mL by treatment (p = 0.008). Before treatment, CSF IL-6 was significantly correlated with the anti-dsDNA antibody titer (p = 0.027). Furthermore, before treatment, QAlb was significantly correlated with the serum anti-Smith antibody titer. In patients with atypical NMOSD who had specific lesions defined in the NMOSD diagnostic criteria but were negative for antiaquaporin four antibody, a significant correlation was observed between the serum anti-Smith antibody titer and CSF IL-6 (p = 0.025) and QAlb (p = 0.033) values before treatment. CONCLUSION CSF IL-6 could be a surrogating marker for disease activity, and serum anti-Smith antibody permeabilizes the BBB in patients with NPSLE, supporting the development of NMOSD-like CNS lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Hasegawa
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Arinuma
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Takumi Muramatsu
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Junichi Kondou
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Yu Matsueda
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Yoshiro Kanayama
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Kazuma Ino
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Tomoki Tanaka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiko Wada
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Kenji Oku
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, 38088Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
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Grasso EA, Pozzilli V, Tomassini V. Transverse myelitis in children and adults. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 196:101-117. [PMID: 37620065 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98817-9.00020-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Transverse myelitis is a noncompressive myelopathy of inflammatory origin. The causes are broad, ranging from infective or toxic to immuno-mediated etiology. They can be manifestations of systemic diseases, such as sarcoidosis and systemic lupus erythematous, or phenotypes of neuroinflammation; in a portion of cases, the etiology remains unknown, leading to the designation idiopathic. The clinical presentation of transverse myelitis depends on the level of spinal cord damage and may include sensorimotor deficits and autonomic dysfunction. The age of onset of the disorder can impact the symptoms and outcomes of affected patients, with differences in manifestation and prognosis between children and adults. Spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging and cerebrospinal fluid examination are the main diagnostic tools that can guide clinicians in the diagnostic process, even though the search for antibodies that target the structural components of the neural tissue (anti-aquaporin4 antibodies and anti-myelin-oligodendrocyte antibodies) helps in the distinction among the immune-mediated phenotypes. Management and outcomes depend on the underlying cause, with different probabilities of relapse according to the phenotypes. Hence, immunosuppression is often recommended for the immune-mediated diseases that may have a higher risk of recurrence. Age at onset has implications for the choice of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Agata Grasso
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Advanced Biomedical Technologies (ITAB), University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Valeria Pozzilli
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Advanced Biomedical Technologies (ITAB), University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Tomassini
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Advanced Biomedical Technologies (ITAB), University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
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Das S, Ray BK, Chakraborty AP, Banerjee A, Pandit A, Das G, Dubey S. Persistent “MRI-negative” lupus myelitis-disease presentation, immunological profile and outcome. Front Neurol 2022; 13:968322. [PMID: 36388234 PMCID: PMC9659815 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.968322] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Myelitis is the least common neuropsychiatric manifestation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-negative myelitis is even rarer. Here, we present the largest cohort of MRI-negative lupus myelitis cases to assess their clinical and immunological profiles and outcome. Method A single-center, observational study conducted over a period of 5 years (2017–2021) was undertaken to evaluate patients with MRI-negative lupus myelitis for the epidemiological, clinical, immunological, and radiological features at baseline and followed up at monthly intervals for a year, and the outcomes were documented. Among the 22 patients that presented with MRI-negative myelopathy (clinical features suggestive of myelopathy without signal changes on spinal-cord MRI [3Tesla], performed serially at the time of presentation and 7 days, 6 weeks, and 3 months after the onset of symptoms), 8 patients had SLE and were included as the study population. Results In 8 of 22 patients presenting with MRI-negative myelopathy, the etiology was SLE. MRI-negative lupus myelitis had a female preponderance (male: female ratio, 1:7). Mean age at onset of myelopathy was 30.0 ± 8.93 years, reaching nadir at 4.9 ± 4.39 weeks (Median, 3.0; range, 1.25–9.75). Clinically, cervical cord involvement was observed in 75% of patients, and 62.5% had selective tract involvement. The mean double stranded deoxyribonucleic acid, C3, and C4 titers at onset of myelopathy were 376.0 ± 342.88 IU/ml (median, 247.0), 46.1 ± 17.98 mg/dL (median, 47.5), and 7.3 ± 3.55 mg/dL (median, 9.0), respectively, with high SLE disease activity index 2,000 score of 20.6 ± 5.9. Anti-ribosomal P protein, anti-Smith antibody, and anti-ribonuclear protein positivity was observed in 87.5, 75, and 75% of the patients, respectively. On follow-up, improvement of myelopathic features with no or minimal deficit was observed in 5 of the 8 patients (62.5%). None of the patients had recurrence or new neurological deficit over 1-year follow-up. Conclusion Persistently “MRI-negative” lupus myelitis presents with white matter dysfunction, often with selective tract involvement, in light of high disease activity, which follows a monophasic course with good responsiveness to immunosuppressive therapy. A meticulous clinical evaluation and a low index of suspicion can greatly aid in the diagnosis of this rare clinical condition in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shambaditya Das
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, India
| | - Biman Kanti Ray
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, India
- *Correspondence: Biman Kanti Ray
| | - Arka Prava Chakraborty
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, India
| | - Abhirup Banerjee
- Department of General Medicine, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Kolkata, India
| | - Alak Pandit
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, India
| | - Gautam Das
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, India
| | - Souvik Dubey
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, India
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Wang M, Wang Z, Zhang L, Zhao J, Wu D, Li J, Wang Q, Su J, Xu D, Zhang S, Li M, Zeng X. Exploring the risk factors and prognosis of transverse myelitis in systemic lupus erythematosus. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2022; 13:20406223221097330. [PMID: 35615445 PMCID: PMC9125597 DOI: 10.1177/20406223221097330] [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: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients
with transverse myelitis (TM) as a rare manifestation in systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE) and explore the risk factors and prognosis of
SLE-related TM (SLE-TM). Methods: We conducted a retrospective case–control and cohort analysis. All patients
with SLE-TM (58 patients) and 232 with SLE without TM, as a control group,
were admitted to Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 1993
and May 2021. Factors associated with the presence of SLE-TM and its
prognosis were assessed using logistic regression and Cox proportional
hazard models. Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that positive anti-Ro/Sjogren’s syndrome A
(anti-Ro/ SSA) (<0.01) and increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
(p < 0.01) were associated with SLE-TM. Regarding
prognosis, methylprednisolone (MP) pulse therapy within 2 weeks of onset
(adjusted hazard ratio (AHR), 2.12; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.06–4.23;
p = 0.03) was associated with short-term neurological
improvement. An American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS)
grades of A, B, or C at onset (AHR, 0.12; 95% CI 0.05–0.28;
p < 0.001) and hypoglycorrhachia (AHR, 0.29; 95% CI,
0.13–0.65; p < 0.01) were associated with a short-term
non-improved outcome. Conclusions: The positive anti-Ro/SSA antibodies and increased ESR may be associated with
the presence of SLE-TM. An initial presentation with severe myelitis and
hypoglycorrhachia appear to be predictors of a poor neurological outcome.
Early steroid pulse therapy may improve the prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhui Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Ziqian Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jiuliang Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jinmei Su
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Xu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Shangzhu Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Mengtao Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH)
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology, and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
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Relapse rates and risk factors for unfavorable neurological prognosis of transverse myelitis in systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2021; 21:102996. [PMID: 34798313 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2021.102996] [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: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transverse myelitis (TM) is a rare but severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) manifestation. To date, the prognostic factors for SLE-associated TM have been far less well-studied. There are also controversial data on the association of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score, longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM), and decreased complement levels with the outcome of TM. We aimed to review the potential prognostic factors and integrate relapse rates of observational studies for SLE-associated TM. METHOD To review the prognosis for SLE-associated TM, relevant articles published up to July 30, 2021, were comprehensively and systematically identified from PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science databases. Five studies encompassing 283 patients with SLE-related TM were included in this meta-analysis; raw data were obtained from three studies. RESULTS The risk factors for unfavorable neurological outcome included demographic features, clinical characteristics, laboratory data, among which a grade of A, B or C on the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) at the onset of TM was associated with poor prognosis (OR: 56.05, 95% CI: 6.29-499.25, P < 0.001). The presence of hypoglycorrhachia was also correlated with a worse prognosis (OR: 10.78, 95% CI: 3.74-31.07, P < 0.001). No noticeable correlation was revealed between a poor outcome and positive aPLs and different aPLs profiles (anticardiolipin antibody [aCL], anti-β2-glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI], lupus anticoagulant [LA]). The pooled 1-, 3- and 5-year relapse rates were 22% (95% CI: 0.13-0.31), 34% (95% CI: 0.22-0.47) and 36% (95% CI: 0.14-0.58), respectively. No significant publication bias was found. CONCLUSION A grade of A, B, or C on the AIS at initial TM and the presence of hypoglycorrhachia were found to be related to a worse prognosis in patients with SLE-associated TM. Notably, aPLs and different aPLs profiles may not suggest poor neurological outcome. The long-term relapse rate of patients with SLE-associated TM was relatively high. We recommend that treatment be stratified based on the initial severity of myelitis. For patients with severe myelitis, early intensive therapy may be initiated as soon as possible.
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A case of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis in an 80-year-old patient with systemic lupus erythematous and anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 51:102899. [PMID: 33812223 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic Lupus Erythematous is a systemic autoimmune disease with multiorgan inflammation. Clinical manifestations are variable and may involve the Central Nervous System. Acute transverse myelitis is a rare complication. Recent studies have shown an association between SLE, transverse myelitis and presence of anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies. CASE PRESENTATION We describe the case of an 80-year-old woman with a subacute onset of right hemiplegia followed by left-sided ataxia. Cervical MRI revealed longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Blood examinations showed positivity for anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies, anti-phospholipid antibodies and anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies. CONCLUSIONS Anti-aquaporin 4 antibody testing is of paramount importance in order to reach a correct diagnosis and to treat patients with the best therapeutic approach.
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8
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Carrión-Barberà I, Salman-Monte TC, Vílchez-Oya F, Monfort J. Neuropsychiatric involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus: A review. Autoimmun Rev 2021; 20:102780. [PMID: 33609799 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2021.102780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The neuropsychiatric involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is a challenge for clinicians, both at a diagnostic and therapeutic level. Although in 1999 the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) proposed a set of definitions for 19 NPSLE syndromes, with the intention of homogenizing the terminology for research purposes and clinical practice, the prevalence of NPSLE varies widely according to different series and is estimated to be between 37 and 95%. This is due to multiple factors such as the unalike definitions used, the diverse design of the studies, type of population, race, type and severity of symptoms, and follow-up of the different cohorts of patients with SLE. In recent years, some authors have tried excluding minor neuropsychiatric manifestations in order to try to reduce this wide variation in the prevalence of NPSLE since they are very prevalent in the general population; others authors have developed various models for the attribution of neuropsychiatric events to SLE that can assist clinicians in this diagnostic process, and finally, some authors developed and validated in 2014 a new algorithm based on the definitions of the ACR that includes the evaluation of the patient's lupus activity together with imaging techniques and the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), with the aim of trying to differentiate the true neuropsychiatric manifestations attributable to SLE. In 2010, the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) developed recommendations for the management of NPSLE. We found abundant literature published later where, in addition to the recommendations for the management of the 19 NPSLE syndromes defined by the ACR, additional recommendations are given for other neurological and/or psychiatric syndromes, conditions, and complications that have been associated to SLE in recent years. We review below the diagnostic and therapeutic management of the different entities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - F Vílchez-Oya
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital del Mar/Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Spain.
| | - Jordi Monfort
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital del Mar/Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Spain.
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Tavor Y, Herskovitz M, Ronen G, Balbir-Gurman A. Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis in a Lupus-Neuromyelitis Optica Overlap. Rambam Maimonides Med J 2021; 12:RMMJ.10429. [PMID: 33478628 PMCID: PMC7835116 DOI: 10.5041/rmmj.10429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Transverse myelitis is an inflammatory lesion of the spinal cord, occurring in different autoimmune, infectious, and traumatic diseases but is the hallmark of neuromyelitis optica (NMO), a rare neurologic autoimmune disease. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may develop transverse myelitis as a neuropsychiatric complication of active disease; however, at times, NMO co-exists as an additional primary autoimmune condition in a SLE patient. Correct diagnosis of a SLE-NMO overlap is important not only for the different disease course and prognosis compared with SLE-related LETM, but especially for the emerging and highly specific NMO treatment options, not established for SLE-related LETM-such as anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies, anti-VEGF antibodies, complement modulation, or IVIg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonit Tavor
- B. Shine Rheumatology Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Moshe Herskovitz
- The Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Neurology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Galia Ronen
- Department of Radiology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Alexandra Balbir-Gurman
- B. Shine Rheumatology Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- The Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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10
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Sonoda-Shimada K, Kajihara I, Jinnin M, Ihn H. A successful case of lupus myelitis treated with intravenous pulse methylprednisolone and pulse cyclophosphamide therapy. Drug Discov Ther 2020; 14:209-210. [PMID: 32863325 DOI: 10.5582/ddt.2020.03065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Lupus myelitis is a rare but serious condition characterized by myelopathy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Its presentation is usually acute or subacute, and it is often refractory to treatment. We reported a rare presentation of lupus myelitis in a 38-year-old Japanese woman with a 20-year history of SLE. She developed paraparesis and bladder/bowel dysfunction 6 months prior to presentation. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed atrophy of the entire thoracic spinal cord with high intensity on T1-weighted sequence. She was initially treated with intravenous pulse steroid therapy, and prednisolone (20 mg/day) was continued; mizoribine was changed to azathioprine (100 mg/day). In addition, she underwent a rehabilitation program to improve lower-extremity muscle weakness. Moreover, because of the refractory clinical condition, intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy was added. Within 1 month, she could walk with a cane and had a desire to urinate and defecate. In conclusion, early and aggressive treatment improves the permanent damage of lupus myelitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Sonoda-Shimada
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Ikko Kajihara
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Jinnin
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University Graduate School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Hironobu Ihn
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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11
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Topuzova MP, Bisaga GN, Alekseeva TM, Isabekova PS, Сhaykovskaya AD, Panina EB, Pavlova TA, Ternovykh IK. [Transverse myelitis syndrom as a result of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, systemic lupus erythematosus and myasthenia gravis combination]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2020; 120:97-106. [PMID: 32844638 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202012007297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) - autoimmune condition characterized by an inflammatory lesions mainly of the spinal cord with the development of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) and/or involvement of the optic nerve with the development of usually bilateral optical neuritis (ON). In recent years, there has been increased awareness that NMOSD can be combined with other autoimmune diseases, including myasthenia gravis (MG), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) et al. The simultaneous presence of several autoimmune diseases in one patient can adversely affect the course of each of the diseases, causing the so-called mutual burden or «overlap syndrome». In this article, we describe our own clinical observation of a 51-year-old woman of European origin who developed acute relapsing TM seropositive for AQP4-IgG, by 23 years after the diagnosis of generalized MG seropositive for antibodies to acetylcholine receptors (AChR-Ab) and the occurrence of SLE, criterially confirmed, several months after the initial TM attack. During the fourth TM attack, partial positive dynamics was achieved only against the background of the combined use of intravenous methylprednisolone (pulse therapy), high-volume plasma exchange, rituximab and cyclophosphamide. The NMOSD is a rare disease leading to severe disability. In patients with MG, when symptoms of damage to the central nervous system appear, an analysis should be performed for AQP4-IgG and possibly for antibodies to myelin glycoprotein of oligodendrocytes (MOG-Ab), as well as markers characteristic of systemic connective tissue diseases (SCTD). In patients with STDD, when symptoms of involvement nervous systemappear, testing for AQP4-IgG (and, if necessary, for MOG-Ab) should be performed to exclude NMOSD, as well as AChR-Ab (and, if necessary, antibodies against muscle specific kinase (MuSK-Ab)) to exclude MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Topuzova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - G N Bisaga
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - T M Alekseeva
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - P Sh Isabekova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - E B Panina
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - T A Pavlova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - I K Ternovykh
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St Petersburg, Russia
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12
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Schwartz N, Stock AD, Putterman C. Neuropsychiatric lupus: new mechanistic insights and future treatment directions. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 15:137-152. [PMID: 30659245 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-018-0156-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently show symptoms of central nervous system (CNS) involvement, termed neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). The CNS manifestations of SLE are diverse and have a broad spectrum of severity and prognostic implications. Patients with NPSLE typically present with nonspecific symptoms, such as headache and cognitive impairment, but might also experience devastating features, such as memory loss, seizures and stroke. Some features of NPSLE, in particular those related to coagulopathy, have been characterized and an evidence-based treatment algorithm is available. The cognitive and affective manifestations of NPSLE, however, remain poorly understood. Various immune effectors have been evaluated as contributors to its pathogenesis, including brain-reactive autoantibodies, cytokines and cell-mediated inflammation. Additional brain-intrinsic elements (such as resident microglia, the blood-brain barrier and other neurovascular interfaces) are important facilitators of NPSLE. As yet, however, no unifying model has been found to underlie the pathogenesis of NPSLE, suggesting that this disease has multiple contributors and perhaps several distinct aetiologies. This heterogeneity presents a challenge for clinicians who have traditionally relied on empirical judgement in choosing treatment modalities for patients with NPSLE. Improved understanding of this manifestation of SLE might yield further options for managing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Schwartz
- Division of Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ariel D Stock
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA. .,Division of Rheumatology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.
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13
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Shaban A, Leira EC. Neurological Complications in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2019; 19:97. [PMID: 31773306 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-019-1012-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is commonly associated with neurological manifestations. Rapid recognition and treatment of these complications may improve outcomes. In this article, we review the neurological conditions associated with SLE, their diagnosis and management strategies. RECENT FINDINGS Recent meta-analysis showed that patients with neuropsychiatric manifestations of SLE were more likely to have positive antiphospholipid, antiribosomal P, and antineuronal antibodies. Another meta-analysis showed an association between SLE and antiphospholipid antibodies with cognitive impairment. Two large retrospective studies have shown that the peripheral nervous system is commonly involved in SLE frequently alongside the central nervous system. Neurological manifestations occur in most of SLE patients. Antiphospholipid antibodies are common in patients with SLE and increase the odds of neurological complications. Management typically involved a combination of treatments directed toward the neurological complication and therapies directed toward SLE itself. The efficacy of these treatment protocols, however, has not been rigorously studied and deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shaban
- Department of Neurology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Dr., Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
| | - Enrique C Leira
- Department of Neurology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Dr., Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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14
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de Amorim JC, Frittoli RB, Pereira D, Postal M, Dertkigil SSJ, Reis F, Costallat LTL, Appenzeller S. Epidemiology, characterization, and diagnosis of neuropsychiatric events in systemic lupus erythematosus. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2019; 15:407-416. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2019.1564040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Cristina de Amorim
- Graduate Program of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Laboratory of Autoimmune Diseases, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Renan Bazuco Frittoli
- Laboratory of Autoimmune Diseases, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Physiopathology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Danilo Pereira
- Laboratory of Autoimmune Diseases, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Physiopathology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Mariana Postal
- Laboratory of Autoimmune Diseases, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiano Reis
- Departament of Radiology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Lilian TL Costallat
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Simone Appenzeller
- Laboratory of Autoimmune Diseases, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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15
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From A to D: A Unique Case Report of Recovery After Longitudinal Myelitis Related to Lupus. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2018; 98:e119-e122. [PMID: 30557157 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Longitudinal myelitis secondary to an acute flare of systemic lupus erythematosus has been reported in the literature. There have been few published cases of complete functional recovery in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus-related longitudinal myelitis (systemic lupus erythematosus-related longitudinal myelitis). Of those cases, none have described in detail the rehabilitation course of treatment. In the current case, intensive rehabilitation was coupled with aggressive pharmaceutical treatment resulting in almost full functional recovery. A 23-yr-old African American woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus was originally admitted as an inpatient for flank pain. Overnight, she progressed rapidly to complete flaccid paraplegia classified as T3 American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A based on the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury. Throughout the next year, she participated in acute inpatient rehabilitation, followed by outpatient rehabilitation (physical, occupational, and aquatic therapies). A year after her initial hospital admission, she progressed to full community ambulation T3 American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale D. This case illustrates the importance of proper medical treatment and a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which improved functional outcomes for a patient with a complete spinal cord injury due to systemic lupus erythematosus-related longitudinal myelitis.
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