Antiphospholipid antibodies and the antiphospholipid syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus. A prospective analysis of 500 consecutive patients

Maternal and fetal outcomes in Latin American SLE pregnancies: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) predominantly affects women, especially during their reproductive years, leading to increased risks during pregnancy. Latina women develop SLE at a younger age, which increases their susceptibility to pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and fetal growth restriction.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to systematically review maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant Latina women with SLE and to perform a meta-analysis to assess specific risks associated with the disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines was performed (PubMed and SciELO), including studies on SLE and pregnancy in Latin America through December 2022. Eligible studies included case reports, cohort studies and clinical trials in pregnant women with SLE. The meta-analysis focused on key outcomes, including pre-eclampsia and lupus nephritis, with relative risk (RR) calculations.

RESULTS

Forty-four studies with 2190 pregnancies were included. High rates of pre-eclampsia (11-52 %), preterm delivery (18.6-70.8 %), and fetal loss were reported. A decades-long analysis of pregnancy outcomes in SLE in Latin America shows increased research and improved care, with fetal loss rates decreasing from 35 % (1980-1999) to lower intrauterine (28 %) and neonatal (10 %) death rates in 2020-2023. Meta-analysis showed that lupus nephritis almost doubled the risk of pre-eclampsia (RR = 1.89, 95 % CI:1.40-2.55) compared to women without nephritis.

CONCLUSION

Latina women with SLE are at increased risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, particularly pre-eclampsia and preterm delivery. Lupus nephritis and disease activity are major risk factors, highlighting the need for tailored care and early intervention to improve maternal and fetal outcomes in this population.

The 100 top-cited studies in systemic lupus erythematosus: A bibliometric analysis

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune inflammatory tissue disease. In view of the explosive growth in research on SLE, bibliometrics was performed to evaluate the 100 top-cited papers in this realm. We performed the search with terms "systemic lupus erythematosus" the Web of Science Core Collection database on May 3, 2023. Relevant literatures were screened. Data were extracted and analyzed by SPSS. The citations of 100 top-cited SLE studies spanned from 472 to 13,557. Most studies (60 out of 100) were conducted in the United States. Total citation times were positively associated with ACY, which was negatively correlated with the length of time since publication. Approximately half of the studies focused on the underlying mechanisms of SLE. New biologic therapies garnered attention and development. Our findings provide valuable insights into the developments in crucial areas of SLE and shed contributions to future studies.

Autoimmune diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes: an umbrella review

BACKGROUND

There is a high prevalence of autoimmune conditions in women specially in the reproductive years; thus, the association with adverse pregnancy outcomes has been widely studied. However, few autoimmune conditions/adverse outcomes have been studied more than others, and this umbrella review aims to consolidate existing knowledge in this area with the aim to provide new knowledge and also identify gaps in this research area.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to December 2023. Screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal (AMSTAR 2) were done by two independent reviewers. Data were synthesised narratively and quantitatively. Relative risks (RR)/odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were reported.

RESULTS

Thirty-two reviews were included consisting of 709 primary studies. The review reported the association between 12 autoimmune conditions and 16 adverse pregnancy outcomes. Higher risk of miscarriage is reported in women with Sjögren's syndrome RR 8.85 (95% CI 3.10-25.26) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) OR 4.90 (3.10-7.69). Pre-eclampsia was reported higher in women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) OR 4.19 (3.08-5.71) and SLE OR 3.20 (2.54-4.20). Women reported higher risk of diabetes during pregnancy with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) OR 2.96 (1.47-5.98). There was an increased risk of intrauterine growth restriction in women with systemic sclerosis OR 3.20 (2.21-4.53) and coeliac disease OR 1.71 (1.36-2.14). Preterm birth was associated with T1DM OR 4.36 (3.72-5.12) and SLE OR 2.79 (2.07-3.77). Low birth weight babies were reported in women with women with SLE or systemic sclerosis OR 5.95 (4.54-7.80) and OR 3.80 (2.16-6.56), respectively. There was a higher risk of stillbirth in women with T1DM OR 3.97 (3.44-4.58), IBD OR 1.57 (1.03-2.38), and coeliac disease OR 1.57 (1.17-2.10). T1DM in women was associated with 32% lower odds of small for gestational age baby OR 0.68 (0.56-0.83).

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women with autoimmune conditions are at a greater risk of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Further research is required to develop better preconception to postnatal care for women with autoimmune conditions.

Deciphering the clinical significance of longitudinal antiphospholipid antibody titers

In antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), the risk of clinical manifestations increases with higher titers of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Despite the adoption of aPL titers in the classification approach to aPL-positive subjects, the value of longitudinal monitoring of those titers in the follow-up is still debated, being well studied only in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The literature suggests that the rate of aPL positivity decreases during follow-up in primary APS, estimating that seroconversion occurs in between 8.9 and 59% of patients over time. Negativisation of aPL occurs more frequently in asymptomatic aPL carriers than in patients with full-blown APS as well as in subjects with single aPL positivity or low aPL antibody titers. In patients with SLE, aPL typically behave fluctuating from positive to negative and back again in the course of follow-up. The few studies assessing the longitudinal course of aPL positivity with no associated systemic connective tissue disease reported a progressive decrement of aPL titers over time, in particular of antibodies against β2 glycoprotein I (antiβ2GPI) and cardiolipin (aCL) of IgG isotype. After a thrombotic event, aPL titers tend to decrease, as emerged from cohorts of both primary and secondary APS. Hydroxychloroquine has been identified as the most effective pharmacological agent to reduce aPL titers, with multiple studies demonstrating a parallel reduction in thrombosis rate. This review addresses available evidence on the significance of aPL titer fluctuation from clinical, therapeutic and pathogenic perspectives.

Evolution of Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune prothrombotic disease characterized by thrombosis and/or pregnancy complications caused by antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). The history of APS can be traced back to observations made during screening programs for syphilis conducted in the mid-20th century, with identification of patients with the so-called biological false-positive serological reactions for syphilis. Initial observation linking aPL with recurrent miscarriages was first reported more than 40 years ago. Since then, our understanding of the pathogenesis and management of APS has evolved markedly. Although APS is an autoimmune disease, anticoagulation mainly with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) rather than immunomodulation, is the treatment of choice for thrombotic APS. Direct acting oral anticoagulants are inferior to VKAs, especially those with triple-positive APS and arterial thrombosis. Inflammation, complement activation, and thrombosis in the placenta may contribute to pathogenesis of obstetric APS. Heparin, mainly low-molecular-weight heparin, and low-dose aspirin represent the treatments of choice for women with obstetric complications. Increasingly, immunomodulatory agents such as hydroxychloroquine for thrombotic and obstetric APS are being used, especially in patients who are refractory to present standard treatment.

Refractory Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Identification and Pharmacological Management

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by an aberrant immune response, leading to an extremely heterogeneous clinical presentation, potentially affecting different systems and organs. Despite the fact that SLE mortality has greatly decreased since the introduction of steroids, some forms of refractory/severe SLE still have the potential to result in permanent organ damage as well as increased mortality and morbidity. Furthermore, SLE patients with multiple comorbidities may face a clinical conundrum and have a bad prognosis. An improved prognosis for severe refractory SLE depends on prompt and appropriate treatment. Due to the scarcity of solid data from a well-characterized group of patients with refractory/severe SLE coming from randomized controlled studies, this review aims to shed light on this with real-world evidence from clinical research performed at our Unit, the University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID) (Turin, Italy). In order to determine the key clinical and prognostic features, and therapeutic approaches for severe and/or refractory SLE, our experience will be described together with existing literature, primarily focused on dermatological, neuropsychiatric, and renal symptoms.

Risk of livedo with antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Livedo is a well-known skin condition in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) which correspond to small vessels involvement. The influence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) on the occurrence of livedo is controversial. The aim of our study was to estimate the risk of livedo associated with aPL in patients with SLE.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature from 1977 to 2021 to estimate the risk of livedo in SLE patients according to different aPL profiles. Data sources were PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, hand search, and reference lists of studies. Studies were selected if they included SLE patients with descriptions of the exposure to aPL and the outcome ( livedo). Two independent investigators assessed study eligibility, quality, and extracted patient characteristics from each study as well as exposure (aPL) and outcome ( livedo). Risk estimates were pooled using random effects models and sensitivity analyses. For all stages of the meta-analysis, we followed the PRISMA guidelines. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42015027377.

Results

Of the 2,355 articles identified, 27 were included with a total of 4,810 SLE patients. The frequency of livedo was 25.5% in aPL-positive patients and 13.3% in aPL-negative patients. The overall Odds Ratio (OR) for livedo in aPL-positive patients compared to aPL-negative patients was 2.91 (95% CI; 2.17–3.90). The risk of livedo was significantly increased for most of aPL subtypes, including lupus anticoagulant (LA) (OR = 4.45 [95% CI; 2.21–8.94]), IgG anticardiolipin (OR = 3.95 [95% CI; 2.34–6.65]), and IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein 1 (OR = 3.49 [95% CI; 1.68–7.27]).

Conclusions

We demonstrated in this meta-analysis an excess risk of livedo in aPL-positive SLE patients compared to aPL-negative patients. For daily practice, in patients with SLE, livedo associated with aPL could correspond to a peculiar group of patients with small vessel disease. Livedo could be a good candidate for inclusion in future classification criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome.

Predictors of Osteonecrosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed at determining the predictors of osteonecrosis (ON) in a longitudinal lupus cohort.

METHODS

Data were reviewed from the initiation of the cohort in 1987 until October 2019. In total, 2,428 patients were included in the analysis based on 224,295 person-months of follow-up. We used pooled logistic regression to assess the relationship between risk factors and rates of ON events. After identifying a set of variables related to ON incidence, we fit a final multivariable model to identify the most important risk factors for incident ON.

RESULTS

In 18,691 person-years of follow-up after cohort entry, 122 incident ON events were observed (rate = 6.5/1,000 person-years). In the multivariable analysis, African American patients were at twice the risk for ON compared to White patients. Male patients and smokers had an increased risk for ON of ~80% and 50% compared to female patients and nonsmokers, respectively. For every 10-year increase in the age at diagnosis, there was a 20% reduced risk for ON. Patients diagnosed after the 1990s had a 50% reduced risk of ON compared to those diagnosed before the 1990s. A highest daily dosage of prednisone of 40 mg or higher, even when administered for a month or less, significantly increased the risk of ON. Use of pulse methylprednisolone or intramuscular triamcinolone was not associated with an increased risk of ON.

CONCLUSION

African American patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are at double the risk of experiencing ON compared to White patients. Oral prednisone at 20-39 mg for more than 1 month, or 40 mg daily for even 1 month, at any point in the disease course, remained the most important glucocorticoid predictor of ON.

Advances in SLE classification criteria

This year, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 1982 classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) celebrate their 40th anniversary. From this start, the quest for optimal SLE criteria has led to the 1997 ACR update, the 2012 publication of the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria, and, in 2019, the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)/ACR classification criteria. The latter have since been externally validated in more than two dozen studies and have become the gold standard inclusion criterion of SLE clinical trials. This comprehensive review attempts to follow the evolving success story of SLE classification, highlighting relevant decisions and their rationale, and discussing consequences for the way SLE is defined and managed.

Transverse myelitis in systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report and systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

Acute transverse myelitis (TM) is a rare complication secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that can cause patients' extensive and severe neuropsychiatric disorders. Due to the rarity of the onset of acute TM, there is still no standard treatment protocol. This study was to summarize the clinical features of SLE-TM through a case report and systematic review.

METHODS

We report a case of acute TM with the initial symptoms of headache and fever on admission to hospital, with lesions in medulla oblongata, cervical medulla, and thoracic medulla. Furthermore, all cases of SLE combined with acute TM from January 1975 to February 2022 were concluded and reviewed to compare the disease's current treatment strategies and prognosis.

RESULTS

Patients with SLE-TM are mainly female (97.65%), with an average age of 36.89, a TM incidence of 24.51% and a longitudinal myelitis (LM) incidence of 67.76%. In addition, 68.63% of patients present an increased albumin, and only 16.50% of patients could recover. 32.35% of patients showed positive anti-cardiolipin antibody. Moreover, the patients who could recover are generally younger than those in the improved and paraparesis groups. After classifying the statistical results twice according to magnetic resonance imaging results and prognosis respectively, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in LM group was significantly higher than that in the other two groups. The positive rate of anti-DNA and anti-cardiolipin antibody (ANCL) in TM group was significantly higher than that of the other groups. According to the prognostic grouping, ESR in the recovery group was significantly higher than those in the other two groups. The positive ANCL in the poor prognosis group was slightly higher than that in the other two groups.

CONCLUSION

We offer a novel insight for this rare disease and hope to bring some inspiration the basic research for SLE-TM.

Primary antiphospholipid syndrome in pediatrics: beyond thrombosis. Report of 32 cases and review of the evidence

OBJECTIVE

Describe the frequency of thrombotic and non-thrombotic clinical manifestations, laboratory, treatment and prognosis in patients with pediatric primary antiphospholipid syndrome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study was carried out in patients with a diagnosis of primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, under 16 years of age, under follow-up by the pediatric rheumatology service of the General Hospital, National Medical Center, La Raza, from January 2013 to December 2020. The antiphospholipid syndrome was defined when it met the laboratory criteria of the Sidney criteria and the presence of thrombosis or non-criteria manifestations of the disease (hematological, neurological, cutaneous, renal, cardiac or pulmonary). Demographic, clinical, laboratory, treatment, and prognosis data were collected.

RESULTS

We report 32 patients, 21 female (65%) and 11 male (35%), mean age 11.75 years, evolution time 16 weeks. Thrombosis 9 patients (28%), 1 arterial and 8 venous. Non-thrombotic manifestations; Hematologic: thrombocytopenia 22 patients (69%), autoimmune hemolytic anemia 13 (40%), Fisher-Evans syndrome 6 (19%), lupus anticoagulant with hypoprothrombinemia syndrome 2 (6%). Dermatological: livedo reticularis 20 (62%), skin ulcers 2 (6%), Raynaud's phenomenon 8 (25%). Neurological: epilepsy 1 (3%), migraine 3 (9%), chorea 1 (3%) and cognitive impairment 3 (9%). Renal in 4 (13%). Laboratory: prolonged aPTT 30 (93%), lupus anticoagulant 32 (100%), positive IgG anticardiolipin 20 (62%), positive IgM anticardiolipin 19 (60%). AntiB2GPI was performed in only 3 patients, being positive in all.

TREATMENT

anticoagulation in patients with thrombosis, antiplatelet in 23 (72%), steroid 30 (94%), immunosuppressant 30 (94%) and rituximab 4 (12.5%). No deaths were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical characteristics of patients with pediatric primary antiphospholipid syndrome differ from those presented in adults, since non-thrombotic manifestations are more frequent in children, for which classification criteria that include these manifestations are necessary for a better characterization of the disease in pediatric population.

Lupus anticoagulant test persistence over time and its associations with future thrombotic events

Data on lupus anticoagulant (LA) test stability in patients persistently positive for LA are limited and its implications on clinical outcomes are lacking. We investigated the rate and predictors of a negative LA test and whether experiencing a negative test affected a patient's risk of future thrombotic events or death in a prospective observational study of persistently LA positive patients. We followed 164 patients (84% women) for a median of 9.2 years and a total of 1,438 follow-up visits. During the observation period, 50 thrombotic events (23 arterial and 27 venous events) occurred and 24 patients died. Forty-six of the patients had at least one negative LA test during the observation period, corresponding to a 10-year cumulative incidence of a negative LA test of 28% (95%CI: 20-35). The majority of patients with available follow-up after a negative LA test (n=41) had at least one subsequent positive test for LA (n=28/41, 68%). Vitamin K antagonist (VKA) treatment at baseline was associated with a negative LA test during follow up. Using a multistate time-to-event model with multivariable adjustment, a negative LA test had no impact on a patient's prospective risk of thrombosis or mortality. We conclude that a negative LA test during observation cannot be used clinically to stratify a patient's risk for future events.

Long-term safety and effectiveness of mycophenolate mofetil in adults with lupus nephritis: a real-world study in Japan

OBJECTIVES

To assess the safety and effectiveness of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in Japanese adults with lupus nephritis (LN) in real-world clinical practice.

METHODS

This multicentre, prospective, post-marketing surveillance study investigated the effectiveness and safety of MMF, as induction or maintenance therapy, in LN patients. Primary endpoints were adverse drug reactions (ADRs), changes in renal function from baseline, and relapse rate (RR) after 6 months in the maintenance group, estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Complete remission (CR) and partial remission (PR) were estimated by renal measurements.

RESULTS

Overall, 112 patients were enrolled in the induction group and 340 in the maintenance group. Of these 452 patients, 418 were evaluable for safety and 396 for effectiveness. Eighty-three patients (19.85%) experienced ADRs, most commonly herpes zoster (3.34%) and diarrhoea (3.11%). Serious ADRs occurring in more than three patients were cytomegalovirus infections (1.43%), acute pyelonephritis (0.71%), and herpes zoster (0.71%). One patient died from herpes zoster disseminated. CR and PR were 19.54% and 44.82%, respectively, in the induction group, and 40.62% and 66.16%, respectively, in the maintenance group. RR in the maintenance group was 0.70%.

CONCLUSIONS

The tolerability of MMF is in line with that reported in other studies. Since the average dose of MMF was <1.5 g/day, research into the optimal dose for achieving effectiveness is required.

Loss of antiphospholipid antibody positivity post-thrombosis in SLE

Background/Purpose

Loss of positivity of antiphospholipid antibodies has been observed in clinical practice post-thrombosis in patients with SLE with secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Our study defined the frequency of this loss and the duration before positivity recurred.

Methods

In this prospective study, patients with SLE having at least two positive antiphospholipid markers prior to thrombosis and at least 1 year of follow-up after thrombosis were included. Antiphospholipid markers included lupus anticoagulant (dilute Russell viper venom test >45 s followed by mixing and confirmatory tests) and/or anticardiolipin titre (aCL IgG ≥20, aCL IgM ≥20 and/or aCL IgA ≥20). The percentage of visits with positive antiphospholipid markers after thrombosis was calculated. For patients with a negative antiphospholipid marker any time after thrombosis, survival estimates were performed to calculate the time to return of antiphospholipid positivity.

Results

In APS due to SLE, complete loss of antiphospholipid positivity post-thrombosis was up to 41% for aCL IgG, 51% for IgM and 50% for IgA, but only 20% for those with lupus anticoagulant. Of those who at some point lost aCL IgG or became negative for lupus anticoagulant, the majority (60% and 76%, respectively) reacquired the antibody within 5 years. In contrast, of those who lost aCL IgM or IgA, fewer reacquired it within 5 years (37% and 17%, respectively).

Conclusion

Intermittent positivity of antiphospholipid antibodies is present in APS due to SLE. These fluctuations make it difficult to decide on length of anticoagulation. Lupus anticoagulant is more likely to persist post-thrombosis.

Antiphospholipid antibodies and the risk of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

According to criteria for the classification of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), autoimmune hemolytic anemia is one of the disease-defining hematologic disorders together with thrombocytopenia. Since the recognition of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), hemolytic anemia was frequently reported but several studies yielded contradictory results on the association between antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and hemolytic anemia. Therefore, we evaluated the association of aPL and autoimmune hemolytic anemia in SLE patients by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, congress abstracts, and reference lists of eligible studies were searched from 1987 to 2020. Studies were selected if they included SLE patients with descriptions of exposure to aPL and occurrence of hemolytic anemia. Three reviewers extracted study characteristics and association data from published reports. Risk estimates were pooled using random effects models and sensitivity analyses. We followed the PRISMA guidelines for all stages of the meta-analysis (Supplemental Table). PROSPERO registration number: CRD42015027376.

RESULTS

From 3555 articles identified, 38 studies met inclusion criteria and included 8286 SLE patients. 20.5% of aPL-positive SLE patients had hemolytic anemia compared to 8.7% in aPL-negative SLE patients. The overall pooled Odds Ratio (OR) for hemolytic anemia in aPL positive patients was 2.83 (95% CI; 2.12-3.79). Among aPL subtypes, the risk of hemolytic anemia was highest for lupus anticoagulant (OR = 3.37 [95% CI; 2.26-5.04]) and, antiβ₂Glycoprotein I antibodies (OR = 3.21 [95% CI; 1.54-6.72]), especially IgM antiβ₂Glycoprotein I (OR = 3.01 [95% CI; 1.26, 7.24]).

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of hemolytic anemia was strongly associated with presence of aPL in SLE patients. Interestingly, IgM isotypes indicate an increased risk of hemolytic anemia in SLE.

The Predictive Value of the aCL and Anti-β2GPI at the Time of Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis-A Two-Year Prospective Study

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an important cause of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). According to current APS classification criteria, APS cannot be confirmed until 24 weeks after DVT. This time frame results in frequent discontinuation of anticoagulant treatment before APS is diagnosed. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the potential predictive value of anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-β2glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI) before discontinuation of anticoagulation therapy. Patients with newly diagnosed DVT were included into a 24-month prospective study. All patients received anticoagulant therapy. aCL and anti-β2GPI were determined at inclusion and every four weeks for the first 24 weeks and then one and two years after inclusion. APS was confirmed in 24/221 (10.9%) patients. At the time of acute DVT 20/24 (83.3%), APS patients had positive aCL and/or anti-β2GPI. Two patients had low aCL levels and two were negative at the time of acute DVT but later met APS criteria due to lupus anticoagulant (LA). Our data indicate that negative aCL and/or anti-β2GPI at the time of acute DVT make further aPL testing unnecessary; however, LA should be determined after discontinuation of anticoagulant therapy. Positive aCL and/or anti-β2GPI at the time of acute DVT have a strong positive predictive value for APS and may support therapeutic decisions.

High IgA antiphospholipid autoantibodies in healthy Sudanese explain the increased prevalence among Sudanese compared to Swedish systemic lupus erythematosus patients

Objectives

IgA antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are prevalent in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients of African American, Afro-Caribbean and South African origin. Nevertheless, data from North Africa are lacking, and most studies use manufacturer-suggested cut-offs based on Caucasian controls. Therefore, we compared aPL isotypes in Sudanese and Swedish SLE patients using nation-based cut-offs.

Methods

Consecutive SLE patients and age- and sex-matched controls from Sudan (N = 115/106) and Sweden (N = 340/318) were included. All patients fulfilled the 1982 American College of Rheumatology SLE classification criteria. Antiphospholipid syndrome–related events were obtained from patients’ records. IgA/G/M anticardiolipin and anti-β₂ glycoprotein I (β₂GPI) were analysed with two independent assays. IgA anti-β₂GPI domain 1 (D1) was also investigated. Manufacturers’ cut-offs and the 95th and 99th percentile cut-offs based on national controls were used.

Results

Sudanese patients and controls had higher levels and were more often positive for IgA aPL than Swedes when using manufacturers’ cut-offs. In contrast, using national cut-offs, the increase in IgA aPL among Sudanese patients was lost. Occurrence of IgA anti-D1 did not differ between the countries. Venous thromboses were less common among Sudanese patients and did not associate with aPL. No clinical associations were observed with IgA anti-β₂GPI in Sudanese patients. Thromboses in Swedes were associated with IgG/M aPL. Fetal loss was associated with aPL in both cohorts.

Conclusions

IgA anti-β₂GPI prevalence was higher among Sudanese compared to Swedish patients when manufacturers’ cut-offs were used. This situation was reversed when applying national cut-offs. Anti-D1 was not increased in Sudanese patients. Previous studies on populations of African origin, which demonstrate a high prevalence of IgA aPL positivity, should be re-evaluated using a similar cut-off approach.

A glimpse into the history of description of the antiphospholipid syndrome

Prior to 1983, several landmark reports prepared the stage for a detailed description of the Antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome (APS). Formerly depicted as lupus-like, APS exhibits a wide spectrum of symptoms that overlap with Sjogren's, Hashimoto, and other autoimmune diseases. In this review, we take a glimpse into the history of description of APS, discussing the events that led to its recognition as one of the most common autoimmune diseases and the enormous impact of that recognition in the rheumatology field.

Antiphospholipid Antibodies and Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The relationship between antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) has never been systematically addressed. The aim of this study is to assess the link between aPL and AIHA in adult systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This study performed an EMBASE/PubMed search from inception to June 2019 and meta-analysis using Peto’s odds ratios. The pooled prevalence (PP) of IgG/IgM anticardiolipin (aCL) and lupus anticoagulant (LA) was greater in AIHA +ve than AIHA −ve patients (34.7% vs. 27.6%, p = 0.03; 33.3% vs. 21.8%, p < 0.0001; 20.9% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.01). The PP of AIHA was greater in: (1) IgG and IgM aCL +ve than −ve patients (21.8% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.001 and 18.7% vs. 6.3%, p < 0.0001), (2) in SLE related APS than in primary APS patients (22.8% vs. 3.9% p < 0.0001), (3) in APS +ve than APS −ve SLE patients (23.2% vs. 8.4%, p = 0.01), and (4) in thrombotic APS than non-thrombotic APS/SLE patients (26.8% vs. 10%, p = 0.03). The PP of IgG/IgM aCL and LA was greater in DAT +ve than DAT −ve patients (42.4% vs. 12.8%, p < 0.0001; 26.2% vs. 12.8%, p = 0.03 and 29.2% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.004 respectively). It was found that AIHA prevalence is maximal in SLE with aPL/APS, low-moderate in SLE without aPL and minimal in PAPS. Moreover, AIHA is rightly included among the classification criteria for SLE but not for APS/aPL. The significance of an isolated DAT positivity remains unclear in this setting

The antiphospholipid syndrome - often overlooked cause of vascular occlusions?

The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was fully recognized as a clinical entity in the early 1980s. Still, more than 30 years later, the epidemiology of APS is not well described, and furthermore, APS remains a challenge in terms of both diagnostic issues and clinical praxis involving a wide range of specialties. To date, there are no diagnostic criteria for APS. The present classification criteria rely on a combination of clinical manifestations and persistently positive tests for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Clinical symptoms comprise vascular thrombosis, which can affect any vascular bed, including venous, microvascular and arterial vessels, and a set of pregnancy morbidities including early and late miscarriages, foetal death and preeclampsia. APS is more frequent among patients with other autoimmune diseases, and it is especially common in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Importantly, APS symptoms can present in almost any medical specialty, but general knowledge and most previous clinical studies have essentially been confined to haematology, rheumatology and obstetrics/gynaecology. However, recent data demonstrate a relatively high prevalence of aPL also in patients from the general population who suffer from vascular occlusions or pregnancy complications. It is important that these patients are recognized by the general health care since APS is a treatable condition. This review aims to summarize the present knowledge on the history, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and treatment of APS in order to urge a wide range of clinicians to consider comprehensive assessment of all patients where the diagnosis APS may be conceivable.

Clinical features of transverse myelitis associated with systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective

This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of systemic lupus erythematosus with transverse myelitis (SLE-TM) in a relatively large patient series.

Methods

This retrospective study considered 45 SLE-TM individuals treated as inpatients and outpatients at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between 1993 and 2018. SLE-TM patients were compared with 180 controls, and SLE-TM patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) were compared to those without NMOSD.

Results

Compared to controls, the SLE-TM group frequently had a fever and had a significantly higher positive rate of anticardiolipin and lupus anticoagulant. Among the 45 patients, 22 met the NMOSD criteria. Compared to non-NMOSD patients, NMOSD patients had a lower incidence of rash ( p = 0.023), serositis ( p = 0.042) and renal disorder ( p = 0.073); a lower prevalence of decreased complement ( p = 0.083); and lower rates of positive anti-dsDNA ( p = 0.074) and anti-Sm ( p = 0.042). Among 22 SLE-TM patients with NMOSD, 18 underwent aquaporin 4 antibody testing, with 11 showing positive results. Out of the 45 patients, 39 were given methylprednisolone pulse treatment. After treatment, 32 patients had lower-limb muscle strength recovery (recovered group), whereas 13 had no change and persistent severe neurological deficits (non-recovered group). Compared to the recovered group, the non-recovered group were younger ( p = 0.002), had a higher likelihood of having a fever ( p = 0.020), initial severe myelitis ( p < 0.001), long spinal segment involvement ( p = 0.017) and higher C-reactive protein levels ( p = 0.020). Methylprednisolone pulse given within two weeks of onset was more frequent in the recovered group than in the non-recovered group ( p = 0.082).

Conclusions

Disease characteristics differed between SLE-TM patients with and without NMOSD. SLE and NMOSD tended to be co-morbidities. Initial severe neurological impairment, extensive spinal cord lesions, hyper-inflammation and delayed steroid impulse treatment could be predictors of poor outcome for SLE-TM.

Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Patients With Lupus Anticoagulant Prozone Effect

OBJECTIVES

Lupus anticoagulant (LAC) is typically associated with thrombosis but also rarely with hemorrhage. Some patients exhibit a prozone effect on LAC testing. Antiphosphatidylserine/prothrombin (aPS/PT) antibodies may provide a mechanism for both hemorrhage and prozone effect. Our goal was to evaluate whether antibody specificities, isotypes, and titers were associated with LAC prozone effect, factor II levels, hemorrhage, and thrombosis.

METHODS

Patients with prozone effect noted on LAC testing were entered into a database over 3 years. Factor II activity and aPS/PT antibody testing were performed when a sufficient residual sample was available.

RESULTS

All patients with LAC prozone effect and antibody testing were positive for at least 1 class of aPS/PT antibodies. In addition, aPS/PT IgG titers were significantly associated with thrombosis and significantly inversely associated with factor II levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In prozone effect patients, aPS/PT antibodies are associated with LAC prozone effect as well as thrombosis and decreased factor II levels.

Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and thrombocytopaenia in a single-centre cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus from Turkey: clinical associations and effect on disease damage and survival

Introduction

Thrombocytopaenia and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) have considerable impact on prognosis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We investigated the frequencies of these haemocytopaenias, along with their associations and effect on outcome in a single-centre cohort of patients with SLE.

Methods

Demographic characteristics, clinical features, autoantibody profiles, damage and mortality data were compared between patients with and without each haematological abnormality. Variables displaying significant differences between the groups were entered into logistic regression.

Results

Ninety-three patients had AIHA and 215 had thrombocytopaenia. Both were associated with neuropsychiatric (NP) involvement, with each other, leucopaenia, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and antiphospholipid antibodies. More patients in both groups had organ damage, and their damage scores were higher. Association to NP damage was discernible. In addition, cardiovascular and renal damage and diabetes were more pronounced in patients with thrombocytopaenia. At logistic regression analysis, younger age, anticardiolipin antibody IgM positivity, leucopaenia and thrombocytopaenia were associated with AIHA whilst lupus anticoagulant activity, AIHA, leucopaenia, APS and NP involvement were associated with thrombocytopaenia. Among damage items, peripheral vascular damage, diabetes, NP damage, renal and ocular damage displayed significant associations with thrombocytopaenia, whereas none of the items did with AIHA. Patients with AIHA had significantly reduced survival rates at 10 and 20 years.

Conclusions

We observed that AIHA and thrombocytopaenia were associated with severe lupus, affecting major organs and causing end organ damage. Thus, they may be considered as prognostic markers. Furthermore, AIHA and especially thrombocytopaenia may also be a marker for a subgroup of lupus patients who have or may develop APS.

Antı-β2 Glycoprotein I Antibodies in Children with Rheumatologic Disorders

Anti-beta-2-glycoprotein I antibodies (anti-β2GPI) which are the main antiphospholipid antibodies that characterize the autoimmune "antiphospholipid syndrome" are pathogenic and are contributing to thrombosis. We aimed to evaluate the presence and the diagnostic importance of these antibodies in children with different rheumatologic diseases with or without thrombosis risk. A total of 100 children with different rheumatologic diseases evaluated retrospectively. The mean anti-β2GPI IgG (p = 0.108), IgA (p = 0.547), and IgM (p = 0.807) levels showed no statistically significant difference between different diagnosis groups. But anti-β2GPI IgA and IgM levels were higher in SLE patient group. The mean anti-β2GPI IgG (p = 0.375), IgA (p = 0.811), and IgM (p = 0.276) levels were not also showed difference between disease groups with/without predisposition to thrombosis even though concentrations were higher in thrombosis group. In children with rheumatological complaints, anti-β2GPI antibody measurements should not be the first diagnostic criteria if vasculitis is not thought as the primary defect underlying the clinical symptoms.

Natural history of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis in 35 Hispanic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: good short-term functional outcome and paradoxical increase in long-term mortality

Background and objective

Acute transverse myelitis (TM) is an infrequent neurological complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Short-term outcome varies widely between cohorts. Little is known about the epidemiology and long-term functional outcome of TM associated to SLE.

Methods

Patients with SLE and acute TM were identified during hospital admission, visits to the Emergency Room or the Neurology Outpatient Clinic. We evaluated ambispectively those patients with SLE presenting with clinical myelopathy and corroborated with spinal MRI. Cases were divided as partial (non-paralyzing) or complete (paralyzing). We determined long-term functional outcome as well as mortality in those patients with follow-up periods of at least five years.

Results

We identified 35 patients (partial, n = 15; complete, n = 20) in which complete clinical and imaging data were available (26 with follow-up ≥ 5 years). Patients with complete TM were significantly older than those with partial forms. Positive antiphospholipid antibodies were observed in 80% of patients, suggesting a possible mechanistical role. Surprisingly, functional recovery at one year was in general good; however, we observed a five-year mortality of 31% because of sepsis (in 10 cases) or pulmonary embolism (in one case).

Conclusions

Short-term outcome of SLE-related TM is generally good, and recurrence rate is low. However, we observed a long-term fatality rate of 31% for reasons unrelated to TM, suggesting that TM is a manifestation of severe immune dysregulation and a predictor of severity and mortality in patients with SLE.

Antiphospholipid syndrome, "the best prophet of the future"

The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the occurrence of venous and arterial thromboses, often multiple, and obstetric-related adverse events in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). APS, first described in 1983, as thrombosis, abortion and cerebral disease, is nowadays recognised as a systemic disease with a wide constellation of clinical manifestations related to acute and chronic vascular lesions. The presence of aPL is the serological hallmark of APS representing a heterogeneous population of autoantibodies with many antigenic specificities directed to phospholipid-binding proteins, either alone or in combination with phospholipids. Many assays have been developed for aPL detection. Particularly, anticardiolipin antibodies, anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies and lupus anticoagulant are essential tools for APS diagnosis. The cumulative evidence indicates that aPL are pathogenic autoantibodies binding to target cells and promoting thrombosis and pregnancy complications through a wide range of pathological mechanisms not yet fully understood. Finally, the recognition of the important role of aPL to assess the individual risk of thrombosis or pregnancy complications has expanded the concept of aPL, and currently aPL profile is regarded as a major risk factor for clinical thrombotic events.

Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Multiple Manifestations in a Single Patient-A High Suspicion Is Still Needed

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder with clinical and laboratory features of vascular thrombosis, pregnancy loss, and persistent antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs). The pathophysiology is thought to involve the activation of endothelial cells, monocytes, platelets, and complement by aPLs. Disease can range from asymptomatic to rapidly fatal catastrophic APS. We present a case of a 34-year-old male referred for pancytopenia and splenomegaly. On examination, he had decreased sensation and 4/5 power in the left upper extremity. A lacy, purplish rash was noted on the trunk and upper extremity. MRI of brain showed acute/subacute lacunar infarctions. Laboratory studies revealed an elevated lactate dehydrogenase level, bilirubin and ferritin, decreased haptoglobin, and positive Coombs test. Antinuclear antibody test was negative and antiphospholipid antibody panel revealed positivity for anti-cardiolipin IgG and IgM, antiphosphatidylserine IgG, and anti-β2-glycoprotein IgG. The patient was diagnosed with primary APS. Pancytopenia is relatively rare in primary APS and is more often seen in secondary APS. Our patient demonstrated involvement of multiple organ systems as well as livedo reticularis and autoimmune-related findings such as Raynaud phenomenon and Coombs positive hemolytic anemia. We discuss the various clinical and laboratory findings in patients with APS that aid in diagnosis, as well as important management considerations.

SEVERE BILATERAL RETINAL VASCULAR OCCLUSION AS FIRST PRESENTATION OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS AND ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID SYNDROME

PURPOSE

To describe a patient with undiagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome presenting with bilateral severe retinal vaso-occlusion on first presentation.

METHODS

Retrospective case report. A 42-year-old Hispanic female with no medical history presented with 2 weeks of bilateral decreased vision.

RESULTS

At initial presentation, the patient's best-corrected visual acuity was 2 ft/200 and 20/400 in the right and left eyes, respectively. Dilated fundus examination revealed diffuse, confluent cotton-wool spots, and severe vascular occlusions in both eyes. Fluorescein angiography confirmed that the patient had both arterial and venous vascular occlusions and retinal vasculitis. A thorough work-up revealed that the patient had systemic lupus erythematosus and APS with positive antibodies to anticardiolipin, beta-2-glycoprotein, and lupus anticoagulant. The patient was treated with steroids, immunosuppression agents, anticoagulation, and extensive panretinal photocoagulation. One month later, best-corrected visual acuity had improved to 20/200 and 20/40, the vasculitis had substantially improved, and no neovascularization was present.

CONCLUSION

Severe retinal vaso-occlusion may be the first presenting signs for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and APS.

Cellular immune response to β2-glycoprotein-I valine/leucine247 phenotypes in Mexican patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome

Homozygote genotype V²⁴⁷ of the β₂-glycoprotein-I (β₂GP-I) gene has been associated with anti-β₂GP-I and thrombosis in patients with primary anti-phospholipid syndrome APS (PAPS). However, the cellular immune response to β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ has been little studied.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the immune cellular proliferation in response to native and non-native β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ valine/leucine phenotype from Mexican patients with PAPS.

METHODS

We studied 10 patients with PAPS and 10 healthy control subjects (HC). The polymorphism at position 247 of the β₂GP-I gene was determined by PCR-RFLP and the corresponding β₂GP-I protein was subsequently purified from normal human plasma by affinity chromatography. PBMC purified from patients and controls were stimulated with β₂GP-I under native and in non native (reduced) conditions. We also determined the anti-β₂GP-I production in vitro by B cell clones (EBV) generated in cocultures experiments. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was studied to determine the structural differences between the β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ valine/leucine isoforms. Cytokine profile (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, TNFα, INFγ) was evaluated in culture supernatants.

RESULTS

PAPS and healthy control PBMCs had a higher proliferative response when stimulated with β₂GP-I under reduced cultures conditions compared to non-denatured conditions. PBMCs response from PAPS patients was higher. We observed more cell proliferation in response to β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ valine/leucine or valine isoforms in non-native conditions. In contrast, this response was not significant against β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ leucine. These findings were T CD4⁺-dependent. Similar results were obtained with B cell clones derived from PAPS patients, which showed more pronounced proliferation in non native conditions and higher against β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ valine. No differences were found in anti-β₂GP-I production, but high levels of IL-6 in vitro were identified. The structural analysis of both β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ isoforms by DSC showed a major conformational change due to a single mutation in the β₂GP-I variants.

CONCLUSIONS

PAPS PBMCs had a higher cellular response against β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ in non-native culture conditions preferentially to the β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ valine phenotype. This effect is T CD4⁺ dependent and appears to be driven by tertiary structural changes adopted by β₂GP-I²⁴⁷ polymorphism.

Case Report Hepatic Infarction in a Pregnant Patient with the ‘Primary’ Antiphospholipid Syndrome

We describe a patient with previous venous thrombosis while using oral contraceptives and recurrent pregnancy loss, who presented with massive hepatic infarction in the last trimester of the fourth gestation. Thrombocytopenia, the lupus anticoagulant (LA) and the anti-cardiolipin antibody (aCL) were detected and a diagnosis of a ‘primary’ antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was made. The clinical and histological manifestations and the differential diagnosis, especially with DIC and pre-eclampsia, are discussed.

Serum concentrations of Flt-3 ligand in rheumatic diseases

Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt-3) is a cytokine receptor expressed on the surface of bone-marrow progenitor of hematopoietic cells. Flt-3 ligands are produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and found in various human body fluids. Flt-3 signal is involved in the regulation of vessel formation as well as B cell differentiation, suggesting that Flt-3 signal contributes to the pathogenesis of vascular abnormalities and immune dysregulation in rheumatic diseases. The aim of the present study is to examine serum Flt-3 ligand levels in patients with various rheumatic diseases, and to evaluate the possibility that serum Flt-3 ligand levels can be a useful disease marker. Sera were obtained from 20 dermatomyositis (DM) patients, 36 systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, 10 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, 10 scleroderma spectrum disorder (SSD) patients, 4 mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) patients, and 12 normal subjects. Flt-3 ligand levels were determined with ELISA. Serum Flt-3 ligand levels were significantly elevated in patients with DM, SSc, SSD and MCTD compared to those in normal subjects. DM patients with elevated Flt-3 ligand levels were accompanied with significantly increased CRP levels and increased frequency of heliotrope rash than those with normal levels. In addition, SSc patients with elevated Flt-3 ligand levels showed significantly reduced frequency of nailfold bleeding. Serum Flt-3 ligand levels can be a marker of cutaneous manifestation in DM and a marker of microangiopathy in SSc. Clarifying the role of Flt-3 ligand in rheumatic diseases may lead to further understanding of these diseases and new therapeutic approaches.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome Combined With Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Case Report and Literature Review

A forty-three-year-old woman with Budd-Chiari syndrome, who had had transcardiac membranotomy nearly three years earlier, was admitted to hospital with symptoms of abdominal discomfort and subfever for possible recurrence of the condition. Obstructions of the inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic veins (HVs) were thought to have recurred, and the obstructive lesions of the HVs were of the long and multiple type. Additionally, she had a high titer for antiphospholipid antibodies. To relieve abdominal discomfort, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and medical treatment were instituted. Subsequent relief of symptoms was accompanied by an improvement in the date from laboratory investigations.

The authors review 14 cases of Budd-Chiari syndrome associated with antiphospholipid syndrome previously reported in the literature and discuss the therapeutic approaches to the characteristic obstruction lesions of the IVC and HVs.

The diagnosis and clinical management of the neuropsychiatric manifestations of lupus

Neuropsychiatric (NP) involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), can be a severe and troubling manifestation of the disease that heavily impacts patient's health, quality of life and disease outcome. It is one of the most complex expressions of SLE which can affect central, peripheral and autonomous nervous system. Complex interrelated pathogenetic mechanisms, including genetic factors, vasculopathy, vascular occlusion, neuroendocrine-immune imbalance, tissue and neuronal damage mediated by autoantibodies, inflammatory mediators, blood brain barrier dysfunction and direct neuronal cell death can be all involved. About NPSLE a number of issues are still matter of debate: from classification and burden of NPSLE to attribution and diagnosis. The role of neuroimaging and new methods of investigation still remain pivotal and rapidly evolving as well as is the increasing knowledge in the pathogenesis. Overall, two main pathogenetic pathways have been recognized yielding different clinical phenotypes: a predominant ischemic-vascular one involving large and small blood vessels, mediated by aPL, immune complexes and leuko-agglutination which it is manifested with more frequent focal NP clinical pictures and a predominantly inflammatory-neurotoxic one mediated by complement activation, increased permeability of the BBB, intrathecal migration of autoantibodies, local production of immune complexes and pro-inflammatory cytokines and other inflammatory mediators usually appearing as diffuse NP manifestations. In the attempt to depict a journey throughout NPSLE from diagnosis to a reasoned therapeutic approach, classification, epidemiology, attribution, risk factors, diagnostic challenges, neuroimaging techniques and pathogenesis will be considered in this narrative review based on the most relevant and recent published data.

Orthopaedic manifestations of the antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome

The antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome (APS), is characterized by arterial and/or venous thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity in association with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Since its classical description 21 years ago, the clinical spectrum of Hughes syndrome has embraced the realms of obstetrics, nephrology, cardiology, neurology, gastroenterology and now, possibly orthopaedics. This is not surprising, given that this disease can affect virtually any organ system and blood vessel of any size and nature. Just as venous thrombosis may affect limbs and internal organs, arterial thrombosis has been shown to affect organs such as the brain, eye, heart, kidney, liver and may also involve the skeleton. In this review, the skeletal aspects of Hughes syndrome, postulated pathogenesis and possible implications of anticoagulation will be discussed. Finally, the approach to APS patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery shall also be outlined.

IVIG in APS pregnancy

For more than two decades, the intravenous administration of high doses of IgG pooled from the plasma of healthy donors (immune globulin therapy, also known as ‘IVIG’) has benefited patients with a variety of autoimmune disorders. A potential therapeutic role of IVIG in the prevention of thrombosis and of miscarriages in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has been postulated. Multicenter randomized controlled trials attempted to define the role of IVIG in preventing pregnancy complications in APS indicate that simple anticoagulation could not be completely satisfactory, and certain patient subgroups might take advantage of IVIG therapy alone or in combination with heparin.

Antiphospholipid antibody associated thrombocytopenia and the paradoxical risk of thrombosis

The pathogenesis of thrombocytopenia in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is heterogeneous. Patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and thrombocytopenia in the absence of clinical manifestations of APS will be diagnosed and treated as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. However, the presence of aPL places those individuals at particular risk for developing both bleeding and thrombotic complications. Therefore, we propose the inclusion of such patients in the subgroup ‘aPL-associated thrombocytopenia’. More attention should be devoted to this subgroup of patients to elucidate the role of aPL in the development of thrombocytopenia and to facilitate the adequate monitoring of its potential thrombotic risk.

Elimination of anticardiolipin antibodies and cessation of cognitive decline in a UV-A1-irradiated systemic lupus erythematosus patient

In the first patient with high levels of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) treated with ultraviolet-A1 (UV-A1; 320-400 nm) radiation, eight months of twice-weekly low-dose (10 J/cm2) irradiation was accompanied by the decrease of aCL levels to normal, cessation of clinical and positron emission tomographic (PET) scanning evidence of cognitive decline, and reversal of livedo reticularis. All occurred within the framework of an improving Revised Systemic Lupus Activity Measure (SLAM-R) score. Further studies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with elevated aCL are indicated.

Musculoskeletal manifestations of the antiphospholipid syndrome

The scope of clinical and laboratory manifestations of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has increased dramatically since its discovery in 1983, where any organ system can be involved. Musculoskeletal complications are consistently reported in APS patients, not only causing morbidity and mortality, but also affecting their quality of life. We reviewed all English papers on APS involvement in the musculoskeletal system using Google Scholar and Pubmed; all reports are summarized in a table in this review. The spectrum of manifestations includes arthralgia/arthritis, avascular necrosis of bone, bone marrow necrosis, complex regional pain syndrome type-1, muscle infarction, non-traumatic fractures, and osteoporosis. Some of these manifestations were reported in good quality studies, some of which showed an association between aPL-positivity and the occurrence of these manifestations, while others were merely described in case reports.

Release of neutrophil extracellular traps by neutrophils stimulated with antiphospholipid antibodies: a newly identified mechanism of thrombosis in the antiphospholipid syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), especially those targeting β2 -glycoprotein I (β2 GPI), are well known to activate endothelial cells, monocytes, and platelets, with prothrombotic implications. In contrast, the interaction of aPL with neutrophils has not been extensively studied. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have recently been recognized as an important activator of the coagulation cascade, as well as an integral component of arterial and venous thrombi. This study was undertaken to determine whether aPL activate neutrophils to release NETs, thereby predisposing to the arterial and venous thrombosis inherent in the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

METHODS

Neutrophils, sera, and plasma were prepared from patients with primary APS (n = 52) or from healthy volunteers and characterized. No patient had concomitant systemic lupus erythematosus.

RESULTS

Sera and plasma from patients with primary APS had elevated levels of both cell-free DNA and NETs, as compared to healthy volunteers. Freshly isolated neutrophils from patients with APS were predisposed to high levels of spontaneous NET release. Further, APS patient sera, as well as IgG purified from APS patients, stimulated NET release from control neutrophils. Human aPL monoclonal antibodies, especially those targeting β2 GPI, also enhanced NET release. The induction of APS NETs was abrogated with inhibitors of reactive oxygen species formation and Toll-like receptor 4 signaling. Highlighting the potential clinical relevance of these findings, APS NETs promoted thrombin generation.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that NET release warrants further investigation as a novel therapeutic target in APS.

Plasma ADAMTS13, von Willebrand Factor (VWF), and VWF Propeptide Profiles in Patients With Connective Tissue Diseases and Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) frequently develops in patients with connective tissue diseases (CTDs). ADAMTS13 and von Willebrand factor (VWF) are closely related to the onset of TTP. We investigated the roles of ADAMTS13 and VWF in thrombotic events of patients with CTD. ADAMTS13 activity and VWF and VWF propeptide (VWFpp) levels in CTD, primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (pAPS), and controls were measured to examine their relationship with thrombosis. ADAMTS13 activity levels were significantly low in the patients with CTD but not in the patients with pAPS. No significant difference in the ADAMTS13 activity levels among the various CTD subgroups was found. The levels of VWF and VWFpp were significantly elevated in the patients with pAPS and CTD compared with that of control groups. Eleven patients with CTD developed TTP, and their ADAMTS13 activity levels were significantly lower than patients having CTD without TTP. However, the ADAMTS13 activity levels showed no difference between the patients having CTD with and without thrombotic events. The VWF antigen levels were significantly high in the patients having CTD with TTP. There were no significant differences in the VWF levels of the patients having CTD with TTP and thrombosis. The VWFpp levels were significantly high in the patients having CTD with TTP and thrombosis. The VWF and VWFpp levels were significantly high in the patients with pAPS. Decreased ADAMTS13 activity and elevated VWF and VWFpp levels were observed in patients with CTD. These abnormalities in patients with CTD may represent the increased risk of thrombosis in CTD.