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Hsu WF, Chen CY, Tseng KC, Lai HC, Kuo HT, Hung CH, Tung SY, Wang JH, Chen JJ, Lee PL, Chien RN, Lin CY, Yang CC, Lo GH, Tai CM, Lin CW, Kao JH, Liu CJ, Liu CH, Yan SL, Bair MJ, Su WW, Chu CH, Chen CJ, Lo CC, Cheng PN, Chiu YC, Wang CC, Cheng JS, Tsai WL, Lin HC, Huang YH, Tsai PC, Huang JF, Dai CY, Chuang WL, Yu ML, Peng CY. Sustained virological response to hepatitis C therapy does not decrease the incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5372. [PMID: 32214132 PMCID: PMC7096452 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61991-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), the effects of baseline characteristics, virological profiles, and therapeutic outcome to pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PR) therapy on autoimmune diseases are unknown. Taiwanese Chronic Hepatitis C Cohort is a nationwide hepatitis C virus registry cohort comprising 23 hospitals of Taiwan. A total of 12,770 CHC patients receiving PR therapy for at least 4 weeks between January 2003 and December 2015 were enrolled and their data were linked to the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database for studying the development of 10 autoimmune diseases. The mean follow-up duration was 5.3 ± 2.9 years with a total of 67,930 person-years, and the annual incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was 0.03%. Other autoimmune diseases were not assessable due to few events. Body mass index ≥24 kg/m2 was an independent predictor of the low incidence of SLE or RA (hazard ratio 0.40, 95% confidence interval 0.17–0.93, p = 0.034). A sustained virological response (SVR) to PR therapy was not associated with the low incidence of SLE or RA in any subgroup analysis. CHC patients achieving SVR to PR therapy did not exhibit an impact on the incidence of SLE or RA compared with non-SVR patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Fan Hsu
- Center for Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Yi Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chih Tseng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Chou Lai
- Center for Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Tao Kuo
- Division of Hepato-gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hung Hung
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Shui-Yi Tung
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Houng Wang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Jou Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Liouying, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Lun Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Liouying, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Nan Chien
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yen Lin
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chieh Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Show-Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Gin-Ho Lo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ming Tai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Wen Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Jen Liu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hua Liu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Lei Yan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Bing Show-Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jong Bair
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taitung Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taitung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Wen Su
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsin Chu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jen Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chu Lo
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Martin De Porres Hospital - Daya, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Nan Cheng
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital; College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Cheng Chiu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital; College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Jin-Shiung Cheng
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Lun Tsai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chieh Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsiang Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chien Tsai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Cohort Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Cohort Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Cohort Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Cohort Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. .,School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Cohort Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Yuan Peng
- Center for Digestive Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan. .,School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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2
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Silva F, Pinto C, Barbosa A, Borges T, Dias C, Almeida J. New insights in cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. J Autoimmun 2019; 105:102313. [PMID: 31383568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cryoglobulins are antibodies that precipitate at low temperatures and dissolve after rewarming. Cryoglobulinemia refers to the presence of circulating cryoglobulins and generally leads to a systemic inflammatory syndrome characterized by fatigue, arthralgia, purpura, ulcers, neuropathy and/or glomerulonephritis. The disease mainly involves small to medium-sized blood vessels and causes vasculitis due to cryoglobulin-containing immune complexes. Cryoglobulinemia is classified into three types (I, II and III) on the basis of immunoglobulin composition. Predisposing conditions include lymphoproliferative, autoimmune diseases and hepatitis C virus infection. The diagnosis of cryoglobulinemic syndrome is predominantly based on the presence of clinical features and laboratorial demonstration of serum cryoglobulins. The treatment strategy depends on the cause of cryoglobulinemia. For patients with chronic HCV infection, antiviral therapy is indicated. Immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapy, including steroids, plasmapheresis and cytotoxic agents, is reserved for organ-threatening manifestations. In this review, we discuss the main clinical presentations, diagnostic approach and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Silva
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Claudemira Pinto
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Arsénio Barbosa
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tiago Borges
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Privado de Gaia, Gaia, Portugal
| | - Carlos Dias
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; Coordinator of Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Almeida
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
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Enck P, Mazurak N. The "Biology-First" Hypothesis: Functional disorders may begin and end with biology-A scoping review. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2018; 30:e13394. [PMID: 29956418 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.13394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
While it is generally accepted that gastrointestinal infections can cause functional disturbances in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract-known as postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) and functional dyspepsia (PI-FD)-it has still not been widely recognized that such an infection can also initiate functional non-intestinal diseases, and that non-intestinal infections can provoke both intestinal and non-intestinal functional disturbances. We conducted a scoping review of the respective literature and-on the basis of these data-hypothesize that medically unexplained functional symptoms and syndromes following an infection may have a biological (genetic, endocrine, microbiological) origin, and that psychological and social factors, which may contribute to the disease "phenotype," are secondary to this biological cause. If this holds true, then the search for psychological and social theories and factors to explain why one patient develops a chronic functional disorder while another does not is-at least for postinfectious states-misleading and detracts from exploring and identifying the true origins of these essentially biological disorders. The biopsychosocial model may, as the term implies, always begin with biology, also for functional (somatoform) disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Enck
- Department of Internal Medicine VI, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - N Mazurak
- Department of Internal Medicine VI, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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4
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Sabry D, Elamir A, Mahmoud RH, Abdelaziz AA, Fathy W. Role of LncRNA-AF085935, IL-10 and IL-17 in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C. J Clin Med Res 2017; 9:416-425. [PMID: 28392862 PMCID: PMC5380175 DOI: 10.14740/jocmr2896w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study aimed at testing the effect of corticosteroid therapy on serum levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-17 as well as lncRNA-AF085935 in patients of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and evaluating the usefulness of using these parameters to predict the therapeutic efficacy of steroids in these patients. METHODS Thirty healthy control subjects and 65 chronic HCV patients with RA were included in our study. Patients were subjected to clinical examination, abdominal ultrasound, and liver biopsy and received 6-methyl-prednisolone (PDN) 16 mg/day for 48 weeks. Blood samples were collected from all subjects and serum was separated to assess IL-10 and IL-17 by ELISA and HCV RNA and lncRNA-AF085935 by qRT-PCR. RESULTS Our study revealed that there were significant increases in serum levels of IL-10, IL-17 and lncRNA-AF085935 in RA patients associated with HCV compared with healthy control subjects. Also there were significant increases in serum levels of IL-10 and HCV RNA and a significant decrease in serum level of IL-17 in patients after corticosteroid therapy, while lncRNA-AF085935 is not significantly changed. CONCLUSION LncRNA-AF085935 might be a useful candidate biomarker for the early detection of RA associated with HCV, providing potential new strategies for early screening and therapy of these patients. IL-17 is a non-invasive prognostic marker to predict the efficacy of corticosteroid therapy in RA patients associated with chronic hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Sabry
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Azza Elamir
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Al Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Rania Hosny Mahmoud
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Al Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Ali Abdelaziz
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alazhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wael Fathy
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
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5
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Aktas GE, Sarikaya A, Kandemir O. Hepatitis C Virus-related Arthritis: Bone Scintigraphic Appearances. Indian J Nucl Med 2017; 32:30-32. [PMID: 28242981 PMCID: PMC5317066 DOI: 10.4103/0972-3919.198468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A symptomatic joint involvement and arthralgia are frequent in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, HCV infection-related arthritis (HCVrA) affects up to 4-11% of the subjects suffering from disease. We reported a patient with HCVrA presented with the commonly accepted diagnostic clinical signs and laboratory parameters. The painful joints distinctly demonstrated increased uptake of Tc-99 m methylene diphosphonate in scintigraphy and normal findings in radiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gul Ege Aktas
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical Faculty, Trakya University, 22030 Edirne, Turkey
| | - Ali Sarikaya
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical Faculty, Trakya University, 22030 Edirne, Turkey
| | - Ozan Kandemir
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Sivas Numune Hospital, 58060 Sivas, Turkey
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6
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Patel R, Mikuls TR, Richards JS, Kerr G, Cannon GW, Baker JF. Disease characteristics and treatment patterns in veterans with rheumatoid arthritis and concomitant hepatitis C infection. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2015; 67:467-74. [PMID: 25187185 DOI: 10.1002/acr.22463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess disease characteristics, disease activity, and treatment patterns in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with comorbid hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. METHODS RA patients with concomitant HCV were identified within the Veterans Affairs Rheumatoid Arthritis Registry. HCV was defined as at least 1 diagnostic code present in medical record databases. Generalized estimating equations in linear regression models compared component and composite measures of disease activity between HCV-positive and HCV-negative patients over the study period, accounting for within-subject correlations. Similar analysis of pharmacy databases evaluated medication use within each group. RESULTS Ninety-two of 1,706 registry participants (5.1%) were identified with concomitant HCV. At enrollment, HCV-positive patients were younger (mean ± SD 61.7 ± 7.1 years versus 67.5 ± 11.2 years; P < 0.001), more often African American (35% versus 15%; P < 0.001), and smokers (48% versus 26%; P < 0.001). In unadjusted and adjusted analyses incorporating all study visits, patient-reported outcomes (pain, tender joints, and patient global scores) were higher in HCV-positive patients, contributing to higher disease activity scores. There was no difference in physician-reported outcomes (swollen joints or physician global scores). HCV-positive patients had lower C-reactive protein levels (β -0.30 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) -0.53, -0.07], P = 0.01). Over all visits, HCV-positive patients were less likely to receive methotrexate (odds ratio [OR] 0.27 [95% CI 0.17, 0.40], P < 0.001), and more likely to receive prednisone (OR 1.41 [95% CI 1.02, 1.97], P = 0.04) and anti-tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNFα) therapies (OR 1.51 [95% CI 1.04, 2.19], P = 0.03). CONCLUSION RA patients with concomitant HCV have higher disease activity scores, driven primarily by higher patient-reported measures. HCV-positive patients were more likely to be treated with prednisone and anti-TNFα therapies and less likely to receive methotrexate compared to HCV-negative patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchika Patel
- Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Pennsylvania, and University of Pennsylvania
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Albayrak A, Dursun H, Uyanik MH, Cerrah S. Anti-cyclic citrullinated Peptide frequency in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and effect of presence of systemic disease. Eurasian J Med 2015; 44:131-4. [PMID: 25610226 DOI: 10.5152/eajm.2012.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may show a variety of rheumatic symptoms and signs. Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) is widely used as as a marker, particularly for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and may be positive in some diseases that also cause arthritis, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, familial Mediterranean fever, Behçet's disease, and psoriatic arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Blood samples were obtained (in routine protocols) from 57 patients with chronic HCV infection from the Gastroenterology Clinic of Ataturk University and Infectious Disease Clinic of Erzurum Region Research and Education Hospital. Normal sera were obtained from volunteer blood donors at Ataturk University. RESULTS Anti-CCP antibodies were found in 5 chronic HCV patients with RA. The patient with the highest anti-CCP antibody level had RA. No patient in the control group was positive for anti-CCP antibodies. CONCLUSION Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies should be measured frequently in patients with HCV and an additional systemic disease, such as end-stage chronic renal failure, chronic obstructive airway disease, and decompensated liver cirrhosis, to differentiate RA from non-RA arthropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Albayrak
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Erzurum Region Education and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Hakan Dursun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | | | - Serkan Cerrah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
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8
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El-attar EA, younes TB, Abdo SA, Riad GS. A study of serum levels of B cell-attracting chemokine-13 (CXCL 13) and rheumatologic manifestations of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in a cohort of Egyptian patients. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2013.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Enas Abdallah El-attar
- Physical Medicine, Rheumatology & Rehabilitation Departments , Ain Shams University , Faculty of Medicine , Egypt
| | - Takwa Badr younes
- Physical Medicine, Rheumatology & Rehabilitation Departments , Ain Shams University , Faculty of Medicine , Egypt
| | - Samia Ali Abdo
- Internal Medicine Departments, Ain Shams University , Faculty of Medicine , Egypt
| | - George Safwat Riad
- Internal Medicine Departments, Ain Shams University , Faculty of Medicine , Egypt
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9
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Greenwood MT, Smith CL. Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Integrated Acupuncture and Energetic Approach. Med Acupunct 2012. [DOI: 10.1089/acu.2011.0847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Prevalence of fibromyalgia among patients with chronic hepatitis C infection: relationship to viral characteristics and quality of life. J Clin Gastroenterol 2012; 46:407-12. [PMID: 22499073 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0b013e3182485528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We determined the prevalence of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) in a cohort of subjects with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV), and the relationship to subject demographics, viral characteristics, and quality of life. METHODS In a cross-sectional study of a cohort of HCV-infected individuals, all subjects underwent a standard assessment including history, clinical examination, and functional assessments for pain and disability. RESULTS A total of 185 subjects met the inclusion criteria. Median age was 48.7 years, and 110 (59%) were women. A total of 106 (57%) of the subjects met criteria for the presence of FMS. Widespread pain and ≥11 tender points were present in all of the subjects with FMS, fatigue in 98 (92%), and depression in 60 (57%). Among those with FMS, mean pain score was 70±11.78 and 36% reported some functional impairment on (HAQ-DI>0), with 17% reporting moderate-to-severe functional impairment (HAQ-DI≥1.5). CONCLUSIONS This study reveals a high prevalence of FMS (57%) among subjects with chronic HCV infection, one third of whom reported some degree of functional impairment. Recognition and management of this condition in such patients will help improve their quality of life.
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Riccio A, Tarantino G. Hepatitis C virus-related arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: could they be different aspects of the same disease? Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2012; 25:293-6. [PMID: 22507344 DOI: 10.1177/039463201202500134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The role played by HCV in the genesis of many autoimmune disorders has been reported in several studies. In particular, the onset of arthritis has been described in about 2-3 percent of HCV infection cases. At present, this HCV-related arthritis is classified as a reactive arthritis, but a real distinction of this form from classical rheumatoid arthritis is often difficult. In this presentation, the Authors distinguish two arthritic forms observed in HCV-related arthritis patients: one, characterized by asymmetrical oligoarticular-involvement, and another, with poly-articular symmetrical involvement. The Authors suggest that the latter can be considered as a form of rheumatoid arthritis, because of the similarity of the main clinical aspects and laboratory findings (rheumatoid factor, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies) to those of classical rheumatoid arthritis, which make the two forms indistinguishable. Therefore, HCV could be considered the etiologic agent of a limited number of cases of rheumatoid arthritis.
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Riccio A, Postiglione L, Sabatini P, Linvelli M, Soriente I, Sangiolo M, Amato P, Tarantino G. Similar Serum Levels of IL-6 and its Soluble Receptors in Patients with HCV-Related Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Pilot Study. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2012; 25:281-5. [DOI: 10.1177/039463201202500132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The high serum levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and its soluble receptors (sIL-6r and sgp 130), described in the course of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), have been linked to the enhanced activity of this cytokine in this disorder. In this study, the serum concentrations of IL-6 and its soluble receptors were determined in a group of patients with HCV-related arthritis (HCVrA), a condition resembling RA in several aspects, and then compared to those found in a sample of subjects affected by RA. Twenty-one patients with HCVrA, 24 patients with RA and 20 healthy subjects (control group) were examined. Different ELISA methods were used for determination of serum concentrations of IL-6, sIL-6r and sgp 130. Increased IL-6 serum levels were found in 15 (71%) of the patients with HCVrA and in 16 (62%) of those with RA. Eight (38%) of the patients with HCVrA and 11 (46%) of those with RA denoted high levels of sIL-6r, while sgp 130 levels were elevated in 21 (76%) of the patients with HCVrA and in 16 (69%) of those with RA. A significant difference between the median values of sIL-6r and sgp 130 levels in the two groups of patients versus controls was found. A mild correlation of these parameters with RF levels was detected in the RA group. Furthermore, in HCVrA patients the serum levels of IL-6, sIL-6r and sgpl30 appeared unrelated to HCV viraemia and to levels of transaminases. The enhanced serum levels of IL-6 in HCVra patients indicate an increased synthesis and hyperactivity of this cytokine in HCVrA, and the substantial similarity of the behaviour of IL-6 and its serum receptors in the two groups of patients suggests common mechanisms with RA, in which the function of IL-6 is central.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Riccio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Federico II University Medical School, Naples, Italy
| | - L. Postiglione
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Pathology “L. Califano”
| | - P. Sabatini
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology D.E.A. II Umberto I, A.S.L. SA 1, Nocera Inferiore, Salerno, Italy
| | - M. Linvelli
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Pathology “L. Califano”
| | - I. Soriente
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology D.E.A. II Umberto I, A.S.L. SA 1, Nocera Inferiore, Salerno, Italy
| | - M.G. Sangiolo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Federico II University Medical School, Naples, Italy
| | - P. Amato
- Department of Medicine, A.S.L. SA 1, Nocera Inferiore, Salerno, Italy
| | - G. Tarantino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Federico II University Medical School, Naples, Italy
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13
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Prevalence and clinical presentations of hepatitis C virus among patients admitted to the rheumatology ward. Rheumatol Int 2011; 32:2691-5. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-011-2014-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Accepted: 07/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Ansemant T, Ornetti P, Garrot JF, Pascaud F, Tavernier C, Maillefert JF. Usefulness of routine hepatitis C and hepatitis B serology in the diagnosis of recent-onset arthritis. Systematic prospective screening in all patients seen by the rheumatologists of a defined area--brief report. Joint Bone Spine 2011; 79:268-70. [PMID: 21733731 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2011.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous studies evaluating the usefulness of systematic screening for hepatitis B and C in patients with recent-onset arthritis suffered from a major bias since they were conducted in hospitals. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the relevance of such screening, performed by hospital and office-based rheumatologists of a defined area, in the diagnosis of arthritis or inflammatory polyarthralgia of less than 1 year duration. METHODS The CRRRI is a network which includes most hospital and office-based rheumatologists of an area with a population of 506,755 inhabitants. All patients seen by the CRRRI participants in their usual practice between March 2008 and December 2010 for inflammatory polyarthralgia, mono-, oligo-, or polyarthritis of less than 1 year duration were included. Patients' serum samples were screened for the presence of anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies, with positive samples further evaluated for HCV-RNA with a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, and for the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. RESULTS Two hundred and thirty-three patients were included (162 women, 71 men; mean age of 50.6±15.8 years). Patients were evaluated for inflammatory polyarthralgia (n=51), monoarthritis (n=21), oligoarthritis (n=35) or polyarthritis (n=126) lasting for a mean 19.8±29.8 weeks. No new HCV or HBV infection diagnosis was done. CONCLUSION In this study not suffering from a hospital-selection bias, screening for hepatitis C and B infection was not helpful in the diagnosis process of recent-onset arthritis. KEY MESSAGES Systematic hepatitis B and C serology is not relevant in patients with recent-onset (<1 year) arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiphaine Ansemant
- Department of rheumatology, Dijon University Hospital, 21078 Dijon, France. ansemant
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15
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Ebert EC, Hagspiel KD. Gastrointestinal and hepatic manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis. Dig Dis Sci 2011; 56:295-302. [PMID: 21203902 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-010-1508-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), characterized by inflammation of the synovium and surrounding structures, has a prevalence of 0.5-1%. Rheumatoid vasculitis (RV) is an inflammatory condition of the small- and medium-sized vessels that affects up to 5% of patients with RA with intestinal involvement in 10-38% of these cases. Clinically apparent RV of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, while rare, is often catastrophic, resulting in ischemic ulcers and bowel infarction. Vasculitis of the colon may present as pancolitis clinically similar to ulcerative colitis. Rectal biopsies that include submucosal vessels are positive for vasculitis in up to 40% of cases. Abnormal esophageal motility in RA may result in heartburn and dysphagia. Chronic atrophic gastritis may be associated with hypergastrinemia and hypo- or achlorhydria, promoting small bowel bacterial overgrowth. RA is the most common cause of secondary amyloidosis with GI symptoms in 22% of affected patients. Although amyloid is usually found in the liver, it is rarely evident clinically. Felty's syndrome occurs in less than 1% of patients with RA and is characterized by neutropenia and splenomegaly. The liver may be involved with portal fibrosis or nodular regenerative hyperplasia. Liver histology is abnormal in 92% of RA patients at autopsy, although the changes are usually mild without associated hepatomegaly. Drug-induced liver disease may occur with aspirin, sulfasalazine, and methotrexate. Significant liver damage is rare if the drug is discontinued or the patient is properly monitored. RA can affect both the GI tract and the liver; changes are usually mild except with RV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen C Ebert
- Department of Medicine, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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16
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To evaluate the recent published data on the safety of biological agents, mainly anti-TNFalpha and rituximab, and diagnostic difficulties in the setting of hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and inflammatory arthritides. RECENT FINDINGS There are important differences between HBV and HCV carriers; however, clinical observations suggest that hepatotropic virus infection should not preclude the treatment with biologic agents in rheumatic diseases. Retrospective reports on limited series of HBV-infected patients with concomitant chronic arthritis convey that careful patients' clinico-virological assessment, in collaboration with the hepatologist, is necessary before starting immunosuppressive treatments, especially biological agents. Preemptive or combined antiviral treatment is mandatory, mainly in active and inactive HBV carriers. Occult HBV infection should be also carefully evaluated due to potential virus reactivation. In HCV-infected patients without chronic active hepatitis the treatment with biological agents, anti-TNFalpha or rituximab, is generally useful and well tolerated. Preliminary data suggest the possible synergic effects of combined antivirals (alpha-interferon and ribavirin) and anti-TNFalpha (or rituximab) in patients with chronic arthritis and active hepatitis C. SUMMARY In all patients with chronic arthritis requiring immunomodulating treatments both HBV and HCV infection along with liver conditions should be evaluated before any therapeutic decisions, including differential diagnosis among virus-related autoimmune disease and simple comorbidity. Patients with HBV infection should be referred to the hepatologist and correctly classified into active, inactive, and occult carriers. Similarly, rheumatic patients with active chronic hepatitis C must be treated with sequential or combined treatment with antiviral and biological agents.
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17
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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an important causative agent of liver diseases. However, HCV infection is also associated with numerous hematologic, renal, dermatologic, rheumatic, and autoimmune disorders. These include arthralgia, arthritis, vasculitis, sicca syndrome, myalgia, and fibromyalgia. The purpose of this article is to review the prevalence and spectrum of rheumatic disorders and autoimmune phenomena in HCV-infected patients. It evaluates and current treatment options including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, low-dose corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate, penicillamine, combined antiviral therapy, cyclosporin A, anti-TNF-a agents, and rituximab. It concludes that larger, controlled studies are needed to establish further the treatment indications, efficacy, and safety of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Buskila
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine H, Soroka Medical Center, Ben Gurion University, Beer Sheva, P.O.B 151, 84101 Israel.
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18
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Wild N, Karl J, Grunert VP, Schmitt RI, Garczarek U, Krause F, Hasler F, Van Riel PLCM, Bayer PM, Thun M, Mattey DL, Sharif M, Zolg W. Diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis: multivariate analysis of biomarkers. Biomarkers 2008; 13:88-105. [DOI: 10.1080/13547500701669410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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19
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Abstract
Mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC), type II and type III, refers to the presence of circulating cryoprecipitable immune complexes in the serum and manifests clinically by a classical triad of purpura, weakness and arthralgias. It is considered to be a rare disorder, but its true prevalence remains unknown. The disease is more common in Southern Europe than in Northern Europe or Northern America. The prevalence of 'essential' MC is reported as approximately 1:100,000 (with a female-to-male ratio 3:1), but this term is now used to refer to a minority of MC patients only. MC is characterized by variable organ involvement including skin lesions (orthostatic purpura, ulcers), chronic hepatitis, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, peripheral neuropathy, diffuse vasculitis, and, less frequently, interstitial lung involvement and endocrine disorders. Some patients may develop lymphatic and hepatic malignancies, usually as a late complication. MC may be associated with numerous infectious or immunological diseases. When isolated, MC may represent a distinct disease, the so-called 'essential' MC. The etiopathogenesis of MC is not completely understood. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is suggested to play a causative role, with the contribution of genetic and/or environmental factors. Moreover, MC may be associated with other infectious agents or immunological disorders, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or primary Sjögren's syndrome. Diagnosis is based on clinical and laboratory findings. Circulating mixed cryoglobulins, low C4 levels and orthostatic skin purpura are the hallmarks of the disease. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis involving medium- and, more often, small-sized blood vessels is the typical pathological finding, easily detectable by means of skin biopsy of recent vasculitic lesions. Differential diagnoses include a wide range of systemic, infectious and neoplastic disorders, mainly autoimmune hepatitis, Sjögren's syndrome, polyarthritis, and B-cell lymphomas. The first-line treatment of MC should focus on eradication of HCV by combined interferon-ribavirin treatment. Pathogenetic treatments (immunosuppressors, corticosteroids, and/or plasmapheresis) should be tailored to each patient according to the progression and severity of the clinical manifestations. Long-term monitoring is recommended in all MC patients to assure timely diagnosis and treatment of the life-threatening complications. The overall prognosis is poorer in patients with renal disease, liver failure, lymphoproliferative disease and malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clodoveo Ferri
- Dipartimento Medicine e Specialità Mediche, Cattedra ed U,O,C, di Reumatologia, Università di Modena & Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Riccio A, Postiglione L, Spanò A, Tarantino G. Lack of HCV Replication during the Course of HCV-Associated Arthritis. EUR J INFLAMM 2008. [DOI: 10.1177/1721727x0800600307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral replication was evaluated by PCR in the serum of 25 subjects with HCV-associated arthritis. Active replication resulted in 16 cases, only 10 of which presenting hypertransaminasemia. A significant correlation appeared between serum Rheumatoid Factor concentrations and viral replication only in 7 patients with hypertransaminasemia. These data suggest that the onset of arthritis in this infection is due to an autoimmune mechanism, not linked to the HCV replication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - L. Postiglione
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Department of Biology and Cellular Pathology “L. Califano”, Federico II University Medical School of Naples, Naples, Italy
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21
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Whitehead AJ, Dobscha SK, Morasco BJ, Ruimy S, Bussell C, Hauser P. Pain, substance use disorders and opioid analgesic prescription patterns in veterans with hepatitis C. J Pain Symptom Manage 2008; 36:39-45. [PMID: 18358690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2007.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2007] [Revised: 08/13/2007] [Accepted: 08/15/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To examine the prevalence of pain, substance use disorder (SUD) diagnoses, and opioid analgesic prescription patterns among veterans infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), a retrospective review of the medical records of 8,224 HCV-positive (HCV+) veterans was performed. Twenty-nine percent and 46% of HCV+ patients were prescribed opioids in the prior one and three years, respectively. Sixty-seven percent of HCV+ patients had documented pain diagnoses and 56% had SUD diagnoses. Patients with co-occurring pain and SUD were less likely to be prescribed opioids than patients with pain only (prior year: 36% vs. 43%, P<0.001; three years: 56% vs. 60%, P<0.01). There were no differences in numbers of early opioid prescription fills or numbers of opioid prescribers when comparing patients with co-occurring pain and SUD to patients with pain only. Veterans with co-occurring pain and opioid use disorder had fewer early opioid fills than veterans with pain only (prior year: 2.6 vs. 5.3 days, P<0.01; three years: 6.1 vs. 13.4 days, P<0.001). These data demonstrate that pain and SUD diagnoses were common among HCV+ patients, and that opioids were frequently prescribed. Co-occurring SUD was not associated with indicators of prescription opioid misuse.
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22
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Ferri C, Antonelli A, Mascia MT, Sebastiani M, Fallahi P, Ferrari D, Pileri SA, Zignego AL. HCV-related autoimmune and neoplastic disorders: the HCV syndrome. Dig Liver Dis 2007; 39 Suppl 1:S13-21. [PMID: 17936215 DOI: 10.1016/s1590-8658(07)80005-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection may be associated with a great number of both hepatic and extrahepatic manifestations. HCV lymphotropism is responsible for poly-oligoclonal B-lymphocyte expansion, which is the common underlying alteration in a significant percentage of HCV-infected individuals. The consequent production of different autoantibodies and immune-complexes, including cryoglobulins, may lead to organ- and non-organ-specific immunological alterations. Mixed cryoglobulinemia, a small-vessel systemic vasculitis, is characterized by the coexistence of autoimmune and lymphoproliferative alterations; therefore, it represents the prototype of HCV-associated disorders. Moreover, HCV shows an oncogenic potential; several studies support its pathogenetic link with some malignancies, mainly hepatocellular carcinoma and B-cell lymphomas. On the whole, HCV-related disorders present a heterogeneous geographical distribution, suggesting a role of other important genetic and/or environmental cofactors. While the majority of HCV-infected individuals is asymptomatic or may develop only liver manifestations, a significant percentage of them may develop a variable combination of autoimmune lymphoproliferative disorders. The resulting multiform clinico-pathological condition can be termed HCV syndrome. The natural history of HCV syndrome is the expression of multifactorial and multistep pathogenetic process, which usually proceeds from mild, often isolated manifestations to systemic immune-mediated disorders, and less frequently to overt malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ferri
- Chair and Rheumatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Modena e Reggio Emilia, Medical Sehool, Modena, Italy
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23
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Lee SI, Yoo WH, Yun HJ, Kim DS, Lee HS, Choi SI, Hur JA, Cho YG. Absence of antibody to cyclic citrullinated peptide in sera of non-arthritic patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Clin Rheumatol 2006; 26:1079-82. [PMID: 17136313 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-006-0451-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2006] [Accepted: 09/17/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate if antibody to cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) is detected in sera of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Serum anti-CCP and IgA, IgG, and IgM rheumatoid factor (RF) isotypes were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on 176 non-arthritic patients with HBV infection. IgA RF, IgG RF, and IgM RF were detectable in 29.5, 21, and 18.8% of the tested sera, respectively, with a total seropositivity rate of 42.7%. Marginally elevated anti-CCP was detected in one patient (0.6%). By regression analysis, there was no statistically significant association between the serum levels of anti-CCP and serum IgA, IgG, or IgM RF (R (2) = 0.033, with respective p values of 0.224, 0.297, and 0.334). In conclusion, anti-CCP was rarely detected in non-arthritic patients with HBV infection in contrast to RF. Thus, testing for anti-CCP may be a useful tool for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-il Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Health Science, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
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24
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Abstract
This chapter aims to give a global perspective to paediatric rheumatology. The main points covered are the incidence, recognition of paediatric autoimmune diseases, and ethnic/geographic distribution. The most prevalent disease is juvenile idiopathic arthritis; robust data are still required for childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and scleroderma. Mimicking or overlapping infections are a major challenge in developing countries, and immunization policies in our patients in these areas need specific attention. The delivery of paediatric rheumatology care is also overviewed. Discrepancies in health-care resources and priorities are found in developing countries. Although most anti-rheumatic treatments are available worldwide, they are prohibitively expensive in many countries. For more traditional anti-rheumatic drugs there is still an ongoing need for good core outcome data across the world to ensure valid comparisons. Parent/patient education has been implemented worldwide in paediatric rheumatology through the power of the Internet. Physician and undergraduate training goals must be met to facilitate competent musculoskeletal assessment, a proper understanding of age-dependent variations, diagnosis, referral to specialists, and improved standards of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata Sawhney
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Centre for Child Health, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi 110060, India.
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25
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Hu CY, Wu CS, Lee CS, Wu CH, Tsai HF, Chen PJ, Hsu PN. HLA-DR11 and HLA-DR2 are negatively associated with autoantibody production in chronic hepatitis C. Ann Rheum Dis 2006; 65:138-9. [PMID: 16344504 PMCID: PMC1797994 DOI: 10.1136/ard.2005.039982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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26
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis is an immune-complex-mediated systemic vasculitis involving small-medium-sized vessels. A causative role of hepatitis C virus in over 80% patients has been definitively established, with heterogeneous geographical distribution. This review focuses on recent etiopathogenetic, clinico-diagnostic, and therapeutical studies. RECENT FINDINGS Hepatitis C virus cannot be integrated into the host genome; it may exert a chronic stimulus to the immune system. The interaction between hepatitis C virus envelope protein E2 with B-cell CD 81 receptor may increase the frequency of VDJ rearrangement in antigen-reactive B lymphocytes. One consequence is the activation of various protooncogenes, including anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. The extended B-cell survival is responsible for autoantibody and immune-complex production, including mixed cryoglobulins; some malignancies, mainly B-cell lymphomas, may complicate cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Environmental or viral/host genetic cofactors should be relevant in the pathogenesis of hepatitis C virus-related diseases. Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis may overlap with other diseases (systemic vasculitides, Sjögren's syndrome, autoimmune hepatitis, lymphoma), which should be carefully considered for a correct diagnosis and treatment. Cumulative survival of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis is significantly lower compared with the general population. Therapeutic strategies for cryoglobulinemic vasculitis include etiologic (antiviral), pathogenetic (cyclophosfamide, rituximab), or symptomatic (steroids, plasmapheresis) treatments, which should be tailored to the individual patient according to the severity/activity of clinical symptoms. SUMMARY Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis represents a crossroads among autoimmune and lymphoproliferative disorders; as hepatitis C virus infection is the major causative factor, cryoglobulinemic vasculitis is an important model for etiopathogenetic studies of virus-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clodoveo Ferri
- Chair and Rheumatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Modena e Reggio Emilia, Medical School, Modena, Italy.
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27
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Abstract
The role of viruses in the development of acute and chronic arthritis is complex, because viruses are ubiquitous, and all human beings are occasionally afflicted by viral infections. In general, most viral infections are acute and self-limiting and survive by infecting one susceptible host, then moving on to another. Some viruses establish prolonged latency in the host after acute infection, whereas other agents produce chronic infections following the primary stage. The mechanisms whereby these infections produce arthritis are diverse and still poorly understood, but are clearly influenced by both host and viral factors. This review addresses these and other common forms of viral arthritis, such as that caused by parvovirus B19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard H Calabrese
- Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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28
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Wener MH, Hutchinson K, Morishima C, Gretch DR. Absence of antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide in sera of patients with hepatitis C virus infection and cryoglobulinemia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 50:2305-8. [PMID: 15248231 DOI: 10.1002/art.20355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) are found in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. METHODS Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP were measured in sera from 50 patients with HCV infection but without cryoglobulinemia, sera from 29 patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia (including 13 with rheumatic symptoms and 5 with arthritis), and sera from 20 normal blood donors. Anti-CCP was measured by second-generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS No sera with elevated anti-CCP were found in patients with HCV infection without cryoglobulinemia, and in that population, the maximum anti-CCP was 10 units, well below the positive cutoff of 20 units. Positive findings on RF testing >13 IU/ml were present in 22 (44%) of the HCV patients, with RF >50 IU/ml in 8 (16%) and a maximum RF of 526 IU/ml. Of the cryoglobulinemia patients, 22 (76%) had positive results on tests for RF, including 18 (62%) with RF >50 IU/ml and a maximum RF of 5,540 IU/ml. Two (6.9%) of the cryoglobulinemia patients had borderline-positive findings on tests for anti-CCP (25 units and 37 units), which were false-positive results caused by nonspecific binding in the ELISA. No association between the RF and the anti-CCP concentrations was found. CONCLUSION Whereas RF was frequent in patients with HCV infection with and without cryoglobulinemia, anti-CCP was not observed in patients with uncomplicated HCV infection. Borderline-positive anti-CCP results were observed infrequently in patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and were caused by nonspecific binding to plastic. Measurement of anti-CCP may help in diagnosing RA in patients with chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark H Wener
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, USA.
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Rosner I, Rozenbaum M, Toubi E, Kessel A, Naschitz JE, Zuckerman E. The case for hepatitis C arthritis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2004; 33:375-87. [PMID: 15190523 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2003.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present the data available supporting the existence of an arthropathy associated with hepatitis C infection. METHODS The MEDLINE database was searched for "arthritis" intersecting with "hepatitis C" in addition to the authors' investigations and experience on this subject. RESULTS Arthritis, not otherwise explained, has been noted in 2% to 20% of hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. This arthritis is rheumatoid-like in two thirds of the cases and a waxing/waning oligoarthritis in the rest. Cryoglobulinemia alone does not explain the arthritis, and there is difficulty in differentiating it from rheumatoid arthritis. The arthropathy is nonerosive/nondeforming. Whereas nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, low-dose corticosteroids, and hydroxychloroquine may be helpful, conventional treatment of arthritis may be problematic in the context of viral hepatitic arthropathy. Antiviral therapy is most effective, even without viral clearance, but rheumatic complications may ensue. CONCLUSIONS HCV arthropathy should be considered in the differential diagnosis of new-onset arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzhak Rosner
- Department of Rheumatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel.
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Abstract
Among chronic viral infections, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is uniquely associated with an array of rheumatic manifestations and autoimmune laboratory findings. These include, among others, arthralgias, arthritis, fatigue, fibromyalgia, vasculitis, and sialadenitis (Sjögren-like). The mechanisms that are involved in the pathogenesis of these diverse manifestations have not yet been clarified. Regardless of the direct or indirect pathogenetic role of HCV in these clinical entities, the concomitant presence of a chronic viral infection creates a number of diagnostic and therapeutic problems. This is particularly true when immunosuppressive therapy is needed for control of disease activity (eg, HCV-associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis). The emerging treatment options for chronic HCV offer a major chance for viral eradication and conceivably for cure of these HCV-associated conditions. In this review, the recent advances in the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical findings, and treatment of HCV-associated rheumatic conditions are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Vassilopoulos
- Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Abstract
Arthritis is one of the several autoimmune disorders induced by HCV infection. There is not a specific clinical pattern of HCV-related arthritis, but two nonerosive subsets have more frequently been described: a RA-like polyarthritis and a less common mono-oligoarthritis involving medium-sized and large joints, often showing an intermittent course. This latter form is associated with the presence of serum cryoglobulins. Because of its variable characteristics, HCV-related arthritis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of many patients having inflammatory joint involvement. Antikeratin antibodies and possibly IgA RF can be useful in distinguishing between RA and HCV-related RA-like polyarthritis. In fact, these tests are highly specific in RA patients. In any case, the search for HCV antibodies should be more widely performed in the diagnostic approach to rheumatic diseases. An association between PsA and HCV infection has been described in the literature, but the authors were unable to confirm these data. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hydroxychloroquine, and low doses of corticosteroids are the cornerstones of the treatment of HCV-related arthritis. An etiologic therapy with alpha-interferon and ribavirin is useful when required by hepatic or systemic involvement; such therapy could also be considered in selected cases of isolated arthritis that are unresponsive to other drugs. Few case reports described the onset of polyarthritis after the administration of alpha-interferon for HCV-related chronic hepatitis. This topic should be more accurately studied in the future to exclude a spurious association between the two events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignazio Olivieri
- Lucania Department of Rheumatology, San Carlo Hospital, Contrada Macchia Romana, Potenza 85100, Italy.
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Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome of unknown etiology characterized by diffuse pain and tender points, which have been present for more than 3 months. Many patients with systemic illnesses can have diffuse pain similar to that found in fibromyalgia, including rheumatic diseases such as polymyalgia rheumatica, rheumatoid arthritis, idiopathic inflammatory myopathy, systemic lupus erythematosus, and joint hypermobility. Osteomalacia and thyroid disease are also in the differential diagnosis of diffuse pain and are imminently treatable. In addition, there has been interest throughout the past 10 years in infectious diseases including hepatitis C, Lyme disease, coxsackie B, HIV, and parvovirus infection, which may cause or trigger fibromyalgia. This paper provides a framework to use when identifying these diseases as part of the evaluation of a patient with chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja F Daoud
- Oregon Health and Science University, Division of Rheumatology, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97201, USA
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