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Alashkar Alhamwe B, López JF, Zhernov Y, von Strandmann EP, Karaulov A, Kolahian S, Geßner R, Renz H. Impact of local human microbiota on the allergic diseases: Organ-organ interaction. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2023; 34:e13976. [PMID: 37366206 DOI: 10.1111/pai.13976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The homogeneous impact of local dysbiosis on the development of allergic diseases in the same organ has been thoroughly studied. However, much less is known about the heterogeneous influence of dysbiosis within one organ on allergic diseases in other organs. A comprehensive analysis of the current scientific literature revealed that most of the relevant publications focus on only three organs: gut, airways, and skin. Moreover, the interactions appear to be mainly unidirectional, that is, dysbiotic conditions of the gut being associated with allergic diseases of the airways and the skin. Similar to homogeneous interactions, early life appears to be not only a crucial period for the formation of the microbiota in one organ but also for the later development of allergic diseases in other organs. In particular, we were able to identify a number of specific bacterial and fungal species/genera in the intestine that were repeatedly associated in the literature with either increased or decreased allergic diseases of the skin, like atopic dermatitis, or the airways, like allergic rhinitis and asthma. The reported studies indicate that in addition to the composition of the microbiome, also the relative abundance of certain microbial species and the overall diversity are associated with allergic diseases of the corresponding organs. As anticipated for human association studies, the underlying mechanisms of the organ-organ crosstalk could not be clearly resolved yet. Thus, further work, in particular experimental animal studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms linking dysbiotic conditions of one organ to allergic diseases in other organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Alashkar Alhamwe
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), and the Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Institute of Tumor Immunology, Clinic for Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- College of Pharmacy, International University for Science and Technology (IUST), Daraa, Syria
| | - Juan-Felipe López
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Yury Zhernov
- Department of General Hygiene, F. Erismann Institute of Public Health, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elke Pogge von Strandmann
- Institute of Tumor Immunology, Clinic for Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Karaulov
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Saeed Kolahian
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), and the Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Reinhard Geßner
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), and the Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Harald Renz
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), and the Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
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Leung AK, Lam JM, Leong KF, Leung AA, Wong AH, Hon KL. Nummular Eczema: An Updated Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 14:146-155. [DOI: 10.2174/1872213x14666200810152246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Nummular eczema may mimic diseases that present with annular configuration
and the differential diagnosis is broad.
Objective:
This article aimed to provide an update on the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of
nummular eczema.
Methods:
A PubMed search was performed in using the key terms “nummular eczema”, “discoid
eczema”, OR “nummular dermatitis”. The search strategy included meta-analyses, randomized controlled
trials, clinical trials, observational studies, and reviews. The search was restricted to English
literature. The information retrieved from the above search was used in the compilation of the present
article. Patents were searched using the key terms “nummular eczema”, “discoid eczema”, OR
“nummular dermatitis” in www.google.com/patents and www.freepatentsonline.com.
Results:
Nummular eczema is characterized by sharply defined, oval or coin-shaped, erythematous,
eczematous plaques. Typically, the size of the lesion varies from 1 to 10cm in diameter. The
lesions are usually multiple and symmetrically distributed. Sites of predilection include the lower
limbs followed by the upper limbs. The lesions are usually intensely pruritic. The diagnosis is mainly
clinical based on the characteristic round to oval erythematous plaques in a patient with diffusely
dry skin. Nummular eczema should be distinguished from other annular lesions. Dermoscopy
can reveal additional features that can be valuable for correct diagnosis. Biopsy or laboratory tests
are generally not necessary. However, a potassium hydroxide wet-mount examination of skin scrapings
should be performed if tinea corporis is suspected. Because contact allergy is common with
nummular eczema, patch testing should be considered in patients with chronic, recalcitrant nummular
eczema. Avoidance of precipitating factors, optimal skin care, and high or ultra-high potency
topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy. Recent patents related to the management of
nummular eczema are also discussed.
Conclusion:
With proper treatment, nummular eczema can be cleared over a few weeks, although
the course can be chronic and characterized by relapses and remissions. Moisturizing of the skin
and avoidance of identifiable exacerbating factors, such as hot water baths and harsh soaps may reduce
the frequency of recurrence. Diseases that present with annular lesions may mimic nummular
eczema and the differential diagnosis is broad. As such, physicians must be familiar with this condition
so that an accurate diagnosis can be made, and appropriate treatment initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander K.C. Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Calgary, Alberta Children’s Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joseph M. Lam
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Dermatology and Skin Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kin Fon Leong
- Pediatric Institute, Kuala Lumpur General Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amy A.M. Leung
- Department of Family Medicine, The University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alex H.C. Wong
- Department of Family Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kam L. Hon
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin and Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Kato S, Shimizu T, Toyoda S, Gold BD, Ida S, Ishige T, Fujimura S, Kamiya S, Konno M, Kuwabara K, Ushijima K, Yoshimura N, Nakayama Y. The updated JSPGHAN guidelines for the management of Helicobacter pylori infection in childhood. Pediatr Int 2020; 62:1315-1331. [PMID: 32657507 PMCID: PMC7839701 DOI: 10.1111/ped.14388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Japan Pediatric Helicobacter pylori Study Group published the first guidelines on childhood H. pylori infection in 1997. They were later revised by the Japanese Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (JSPGHAN). The H. pylori eradication rates, when employing triple therapy with amoxicillin and clarithromycin, currently recommended as the first-line therapy of H. pylori infection in Japan, have substantially decreased, creating an important clinical problem worldwide. In Japanese adults, the "test-and-treat" strategy for H. pylori infection is under consideration as an approach for gastric cancer prevention. However, the combined North American and European pediatric guidelines have rejected such a strategy for asymptomatic children. As risk for gastric cancer development is high in Japan, determining whether the "test-and-treat" strategy can be recommended in children has become an urgent matter. Accordingly, the JSPGHAN has produced a second revision of the H. pylori guidelines, which includes discussion about the issues mentioned above. They consist of 19 clinical questions and 34 statements. An H. pylori culture from gastric biopsies is recommended, not only as a diagnostic test for active infection but for antimicrobial susceptibility testing to optimize eradication therapy. Based upon antimicrobial susceptibility testing of H. pylori strains (especially involving clarithromycin), an eradication regimen including use of the antibiotics to which H. pylori is susceptible is recommended as the first-line therapy against H. pylori-associated diseases. The guidelines recommend against a "test-and-treat" strategy for H. pylori infection for asymptomatic children to protect against the development of gastric cancer because there has been no evidence supporting this strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiichi Kato
- Kato Children’s ClinicNatoriJapan
- Department of Infectious diseasesKyorin University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Toshiaki Shimizu
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent MedicineJuntendo University Graduate School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | | | | | - Shinobu Ida
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and EndocrinologyOsaka Women’s and Children’s HospitalOsakaJapan
| | - Takashi Ishige
- Department of PediatricsGunma University Graduate School of MedicineMaebashiJapan
| | - Shigeru Fujimura
- Division of Clinical Infectious Diseases & ChemotherapyTohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical SciencesSendaiJapan
| | - Shigeru Kamiya
- Department of Infectious diseasesKyorin University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Mutsuko Konno
- Department of PediatricsSapporo Kosei General HospitalSapporoJapan
| | - Kentaro Kuwabara
- Department of PediatricsHiroshima City Hiroshima Citizens HospitalHiroshimaJapan
| | - Kosuke Ushijima
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthKurume University School of MedicineKurumeJapan
| | | | - Yoshiko Nakayama
- Department of PediatricsShinshu University School of MedicineMatsumotoJapan
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Bardazzi F, Magnano M, Fiorini G, Vaira D, Odorici G, Bertusi G, Patrizi A. Helicobacter pylori infection in psoriatic patients during biological therapy. Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2020; 156:570-574. [PMID: 32041937 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.19.06410-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psoriasis is a relapsing inflammatory disease exacerbated by many triggers. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative bacterium causing the liberation of many cytokines and having a role in systemic inflammation. We assessed over a period of 12 months the presence of H. pylori in psoriatic patients undergoing biologic therapy and how PASI improved after its eradication. METHODS We performed an interventional, prospective, cohort, exploratory and mono-centric study in patients affected by moderate-severe psoriasis during biological therapy to assess the correlation between psoriasis (moderate to severe forms), and H. pylori infection. We also checked if the bacterial eradication could improve the severity of psoriasis throughout the variation of PASI over a 12-month period. RESULTS The prevalence of H. pylori was 35%. The average of PASI improved in H. pylori positive patients after the eradication (confidence interval: 33-44; P=0.023). H. pylori positive patients were more likely to have psoriatic arthropathy (P=0.049). Gastrointestinal symptoms (such as epigastric pain, postprandial heaviness, pyrosis) were found in only 31.3% of H. pylori positive patients. CONCLUSIONS Since the H. pylori infection is often asymptomatic, it can be useful to perform the 13C-Urea breath test, and to eradicate it before to start the psoriasis therapy in order to decrease the level of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Bardazzi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Clinical, Experimental and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Magnano
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Clinical, Experimental and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Fiorini
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dino Vaira
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Odorici
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy -
| | - Gabriele Bertusi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Clinical, Experimental and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Patrizi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Clinical, Experimental and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Molkara S, Sabourirad S, Molooghi K. Infectious differential diagnosis of chronic generalized pruritus without primary cutaneous lesions: a review of the literature. Int J Dermatol 2020; 59:30-36. [PMID: 31364165 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.14587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Pruritus is one of the most common complaints among patients referred to a dermatology clinic. "Chronic generalized pruritus" is described as the sensation of itching on the entire body surface, which lasts at least 6 or more weeks. This symptom can be a disabling phenomenon for patients and may sometimes interfere with daily activities such as sleep. If specific dermatological findings are observed, the physician easily comes to a diagnosis and treats the condition, whereas, when primary lesions are not detected, the diagnosis can become challenging, and some patients have to undergo extensive evaluations. The association between some systemic disorders and chronic generalized pruritus is widely known and confirmed. Many infections have been associated with pruritus, but few are considered to cause chronic generalized pruritus without any characteristic skin lesions. We aimed to gather all the available data on infectious causes of chronic generalized pruritus with no diagnostic cutaneous lesions to assist fellow physicians in the process of evaluation of these challenging cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Molkara
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sara Sabourirad
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Kasra Molooghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Mesquita PMD, Diogo A, Jorge MT, Berbert ALCV, Mantese SADO, Rodrigues JJ. Relationship of Helicobacter pylori seroprevalence with the occurrence and severity of psoriasis. An Bras Dermatol 2017; 92:52-57. [PMID: 28225957 PMCID: PMC5312179 DOI: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20174880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the skin and joints
and has a multifactorial etiology. Recently, it has been suggested that
Helicobacter pylori infection may contribute as a
trigger for the development of the disease. OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of H. pylori seropositivity in
patients with psoriasis and to evaluate the relation between disease
severity and H. pylori infection. METHODS H. pylori infection was assessed in psoriatic patients and
controls by using H. pylori IgG quantitative enzyme
immunoassay (ELISA test). The patients were classified according to the
severity of the disease (PASI score). RESULTS One hundred and twenty six patients with psoriasis (73 females and 53 males);
mean age 50.48 years; 65 patients (51.59%) had severe psoriasis, 40 (31.75%)
moderate psoriasis and 21 (16.67%) mild psoriasis. Twenty one healthy
volunteers included as a control group, mean age of 41.05 years, 13 females
and 8 males. One hundred and eleven patients with psoriasis tested
serologically, 80 (72.07%) were seropositive compared with 7 positive
volunteers (33.33%; P=0.002). Forty-nine (75.38%) patients with severe
psoriasis were positive, 25 (62.50%) with moderate psoriasis were positive
and 6 (28.57%) with mild psoriasis were positive (P=0.045). Study
limitations: none. CONCLUSIONS H. pylori infection influences the development of psoriasis
and severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Augusto Diogo
- Department of Surgery of the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU) - Uberlândia (MG), Brazil
| | - Miguel Tanus Jorge
- Department of Clinical Medicine of the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU) - Uberlândia (MG), Brazil
| | | | | | - José Joaquim Rodrigues
- Department of Dermatology of the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU) - Uberlândia (MG), Brazil
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Relationship between Helicobacter pylori and idiopathic chronic urticaria: effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori eradication. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2015; 32:15-20. [PMID: 25821422 PMCID: PMC4360011 DOI: 10.5114/pdia.2015.48729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic urticaria (CU) is defined as the presence of urticaria on most days of the week for a period of 6 weeks or longer. Some studies have reported an association between CU and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. AIM To determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection using the stool antigen test in patients with idiopathic CU and to investigate the infected patients with CU following eradication of H. pylori. MATERIAL AND METHODS One hundred patients with idiopathic CU and 100 healthy controls were referred to our clinic between May 2012 and June 2013 and were tested for H. pylori antigen. The patients infected with H. pylori received quadruple therapy for 2 weeks. To assess eradication efficacy, a repeated H. pylori stool antigen test was performed in each patient 6 weeks after the end of anti-H. pylori therapy. The effectiveness of eradication therapy on CU was assessed 3 months after treatment. RESULTS Thirty-six percent patients with idiopathic CU were infected with H. pylori while 23% of the controls were infected. Response to eradication therapy was evident in 33 (91.67%) patients in whom H. pylori was eradicated while 3 (8.33%) patients showed no response despite eradication of H. pylori. Clinical follow-up of 33 successfully treated patients 3 months later revealed complete remission of urticaria in 54.5%, partial remission in 18.2%, and no improvement in 27.3%. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study suggest that H. pylori infection should be included in diagnostic workup of patients with no response to habitual treatment for CU or symptomatic gastrointestinal patients. For the diagnosis of H. pylori infection, one should consider the costs and accessibility of the population to the HpSA(®) stool antigen test and Urea breath test (UBT).
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Ding YJ, Yan TL, Hu XL, Liu JH, Yu CH, Li YM, Wang QY. Association of Salivary Helicobacter pylori Infection with Oral Diseases: a Cross-sectional Study in a Chinese Population. Int J Med Sci 2015; 12:742-7. [PMID: 26392812 PMCID: PMC4571552 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.11050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to detect the prevalence of oral H.pylori among adults and to investigate the correlation between H.pylori infection and common oral diseases. STUDY DESIGN A cross-sectional study was performed among adults Chinese who took their annual oral healthy examination at The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China. RESULTS The study included 1050 subjects in total and oral H.pylori infection occurred in 60.29% of the subjects. The prevalence rates of oral H.pylori in patients with periodontal diseases (63.42%) and caries (66.91%) were significantly increased than those without oral diseases (54.07%), respectively (P < 0.05), while the difference between subjects with recurrent aphthous stomatitis and controls was not significant. In addition, the differences of positive rates of H.pylori with or without history of gastric ulcer were statistically significant (69.47% vs 58.26%, P<0.05). Presenting with periodontal diseases (OR 1.473;95% CI 1.021 to 2.124), caries (OR 1.717; 1.127 to 2.618), and having history of gastric ulcer (OR 1.631; 1.164 to 2.285) increased the risk of H.pylori infection. CONCLUSIONS Oral H.pylori infection is common in adult Chinese, which is significantly associated with oral diseases including periodontal diseases and caries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jian Ding
- 1. Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Tian-Lian Yan
- 2. Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xin-Lan Hu
- 3. Department of Stomatology, Red Corss Hospital, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jian-Hua Liu
- 1. Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Chao-Hui Yu
- 2. Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - You-Ming Li
- 2. Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Qun-Yan Wang
- 2. Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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Yoshimasu T, Furukawa F. Eradication therapy for urticaria with high titers of anti H. pylori IgG antibody. Allergol Int 2014; 63:37-40. [PMID: 24270226 DOI: 10.2332/allergolint.13-oa-0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is known that idiopathic chronic urticaria occasionally develops with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, but the association between urticaria and H. pylori remains unknown. METHODS We focused on the relationship between the titer of anti H. pylori IgG antibodies and urticaria. Sixty-five patients with idiopathic urticaria were divided into 3 groups by a difference of their titers. All patients in the high titer (≥40U/ml) group underwent endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract with antral biopsy for the Rapid Urease Test (RUT) or a culture test. We investigated the relationship between the efficacy of eradication therapy against H. pylori and urticaria. RESULTS The positive rate for H. pylori was 100% (20/20) by RUT or culture test in the high titer group. A CR using antihistamines alone was 0% (0/20) in the high titer group, 27.2% (3/11) in the low titer group and 38.2% (13/34) in the negative group respectively. A CR or PR using antihistamines was 70% (14/20) in the high titer group, 81.8% (9/11) in the low titer group and 97.1% (33/34) in the negative group. After successful eradication therapy, the CR was increased to 56% (9/16) in the high titer group. CONCLUSIONS Regardless of acute or chronic urticaria, a high titer of anti H. pylori IgG antibody can be an indicator for undergoing upper endoscopy, and eradication therapy is strongly recommended. It will be necessary to develop diagnostic criteria for urticaria associated with H. pylori.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yoshimasu
- Department of Dermatology, Arida Municipal Hospital, Wakayama, Japan; Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Fukumi Furukawa
- Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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Orrskog S, Medin E, Tsolova S, Semenza JC. Causal inference regarding infectious aetiology of chronic conditions: a systematic review. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68861. [PMID: 23935899 PMCID: PMC3723854 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global burden of disease has shifted from communicable diseases in children to chronic diseases in adults. This epidemiologic shift varies greatly by region, but in Europe, chronic conditions account for 86% of all deaths, 77% of the disease burden, and up to 80% of health care expenditures. A number of risk factors have been implicated in chronic diseases, such as exposure to infectious agents. A number of associations have been well established while others remain uncertain. METHODS AND FINDINGS We assessed the body of evidence regarding the infectious aetiology of chronic diseases in the peer-reviewed literature over the last decade. Causality was assessed with three different criteria: First, the total number of associations documented in the literature between each infectious agent and chronic condition; second, the epidemiologic study design (quality of the study); third, evidence for the number of Hill's criteria and Koch's postulates that linked the pathogen with the chronic condition. We identified 3136 publications, of which 148 were included in the analysis. There were a total of 75 different infectious agents and 122 chronic conditions. The evidence was strong for five pathogens, based on study type, strength and number of associations; they accounted for 60% of the associations documented in the literature. They were human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, Helicobacter pylori, hepatitis B virus, and Chlamydia pneumoniae and were collectively implicated in the aetiology of 37 different chronic conditions. Other pathogens examined were only associated with very few chronic conditions (≤ 3) and when applying the three different criteria of evidence the strength of the causality was weak. CONCLUSIONS Prevention and treatment of these five pathogens lend themselves as effective public health intervention entry points. By concentrating research efforts on these promising areas, the human, economic, and societal burden arising from chronic conditions can be reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma Medin
- Heron Evidence Development AB, Stockholm, Sweden
- Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Svetla Tsolova
- European Centres for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan C. Semenza
- European Centres for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
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Lee SY. Future candidates for indications of Helicobacter pylori eradication: do the indications need to be revised? J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 27:200-11. [PMID: 22098099 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2011.06961.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori in 1982, the development of several treatment guidelines has allowed a consensus on the indications for H. pylori eradication. Beyond these currently accepted indications, including various upper gastrointestinal disorders and extragastric diseases, a significant amount of new information regarding H. pylori eradication is emerging. Certain types of acute gastritis, such as nodular gastritis, hypertrophic gastritis, Ménétrier's disease, hemorrhagic gastritis, and granulomatous gastritis are reversible after H. pylori eradication. Further, for chronic gastritis, closed-type atrophic gastritis and complete-type intestinal metaplasia appear to be more reversible after H. pylori eradication than open-type atrophic gastritis and incomplete-type intestinal metaplasia. Eradication can also be considered in subjects younger than 40 years who have a family history of gastric cancer and in subjects with long-term medications that might lead to bleeding (antiplatelet agents) or atrophy (proton pump inhibitors). Emerging evidence indicates that H. pylori eradication could be an effective treatment for some extragastric diseases that are unresponsive to conventional therapy. In such conditions, routine screening for eradication of H. pylori has not previously been recommended; a "test-and-treat" approach is suggested in the aforementioned situations. Given that H. pylori eradication is effective when the gastritis is reversible, future indications should be expanded to include acute gastric lesions that show marked improvement upon H. pylori eradication rather than just focusing on chronic gastric lesions. Future indications for H. pylori eradication should focus more on reversible lesions before preneoplastic conditions develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Izol B, Karabulut AA, Biyikoglu I, Gonultas M, Eksioglu M. Investigation of upper gastrointestinal tract involvement and H. pylori presence in lichen planus: a case-controlled study with endoscopic and histopathological findings. Int J Dermatol 2011; 49:1121-6. [PMID: 20597994 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2010.04541.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lichen planus (LP) is a common disease of unknown etiology. Rare mucosal involvements like esophageal LP have been reported increasingly. Infectious agents including H. pylori and other autoantigens have been investigated in etiology and association with certain gastrointestinal pathologies have been well documented. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to investigate the upper gastrointestinal tract involvement in LP and to evaluate the possible etiologic role of H. pylori. PATIENTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS 49 LP patients and 35 volunteers (without LP) with gastrointestinal symptoms were included in the study as the control group. LP group was divided into subgroups regarding gastrointestinal symptoms. Upper videoendoscopy was performed in both groups and biopsies were taken from suspicious areas for LP, gastrointestinal diseases, H. pylori and examined histopathologically. SPSS 13 was used for the analysis. Groups/subgroups were compared via xi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test, and t-test. RESULTS Gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded in 71% of LP group; none of LP patients presented typical esophageal LP. Gastrointestinal diseases were more frequent in LP group than controls, endoscopically. Chronic gastritis (91.8%) was the leading diagnosis in LP patients. Superficial gastritis was significantly higher (13.3%) in LP patients than controls (p = 0.04). LP was not diagnosed in any of the esophageal mucosa biopsies whereas lymphoid follicles were observed significantly higher in control group (p < 0.01) histopathologically. H. pylori positivity was found higher in LP group (81.6%) though statistically insignificant. CONCLUSIONS We believe upper endoscopy should be performed to investigate esophageal LP and gastrointestinal pathologies especially when LP patient is symptomatic. Although we didn't detect esophageal LP, our study had the limitation of taking biopsies from pathological sites only. Since histopathological examination of normal appearing esophagus may help in diagnosing occult LP, and prevent eventual complications, it may be further evaluated in larger study groups. A new technique, magnification chromoendoscopy, may be useful in detecting esophageal involvement. We believe the possible role of H. pylori in LP is yet to be determined also.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belcin Izol
- University of Uludag, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Bursa, Turkey.
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Akashi R, Ishiguro N, Shimizu S, Kawashima M. Clinical study of the relationship between Helicobacter pylori and chronic urticaria and prurigo chronica multiformis: effectiveness of eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori. J Dermatol 2010; 38:761-6. [PMID: 21352335 DOI: 10.1111/j.1346-8138.2010.01106.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Eighty two patients with chronic urticaria and 17 patients with prurigo chronica multiformis were referred to our department from October 2004 to February 2007 and were tested for Helicobacter pylori antigen using the polyclonal H. pylori stool antigen test (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method). H. pylori antigen was detected in 25 (30.5%) of the 82 patients with chronic urticaria and in 10 (58.8%) of the 17 patients with prurigo chronica multiformis. Those findings were not significantly higher than the positive rate for H. pylori stool antigen in healthy age-matched controls. In patients positive for H. pylori antigen, seven of the 25 with chronic urticaria had complications of gastritis (six patients) or gastric ulcers (one patient). Three of the 10 patients with prurigo chronica multiformis had complications of gastritis (two patients) or gastric ulcers (one patient). We examined the therapeutic efficacy of antibacterial treatment for the 17 patients with chronic urticaria and the eight patients with prurigo chronica multiformis who were positive for H. pylori antigen and accepted the treatment based on informed consent. We evaluated the effectiveness of treatment by scoring the skin conditions and by using the Skindex-16, a measure of quality of life. The eradication therapy for H. pylori was more effective for treating prurigo chronica multiformis and the skin symptoms started to improve within 3-14 days after the therapy. However, that therapy was not always effective for treating chronic urticaria. We suggest that H. pylori may be an important pathogenetic factor, especially for prurigo chronica multiformis, and that eradication therapy should be considered to treat intractable cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rei Akashi
- Department of Dermatology Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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Effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori eradication in chronic urticaria: evidence-based analysis using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 10:362-9. [PMID: 20610979 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0b013e32833c79d7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chronic urticaria is a common and often frustrating condition that physicians encounter in the outpatient setting. Its management continues to be a challenge, and an exogenous cause for chronic urticaria is only found rarely. Helicobacter pylori has been implicated as a factor for many disorders and proposed as an etiologic factor for chronic urticaria. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of the data on H. pylori eradication for treatment of chronic urticaria by utilizing the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to analyze and determine the quality of evidence for this proposed therapy. RECENT FINDINGS Although H. pylori eradication has been recommended as part of routine chronic urticaria management by multiple authors, the trials of H. pylori eradication in the treatment of chronic urticaria have yielded conflicting results and suffer from substantial methodological limitations. SUMMARY Our critical appraisal of the 10 trials showing the benefit of H. pylori eradication in patients with chronic urticaria leads to an overall very low grade for this intervention. Appraisal of nine studies in which H. pylori eradication showed no benefit in the course of chronic urticaria also leads to an overall very low grade. The evidence that H. pylori eradication leads to improvement of chronic urticaria outcomes is weak and conflicting; this leads to a weak recommendation for routine H. pylori eradication for patients with chronic urticaria. For this reason, a decision to proceed with this management should be considered carefully in the context of relative harms/burdens and benefits, as well as patient values and preferences.
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Wedi B, Raap U, Wieczorek D, Kapp A. Urticaria and infections. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2009; 5:10. [PMID: 20066173 PMCID: PMC2804274 DOI: 10.1186/1710-1492-5-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Urticaria is a group of diseases that share a distinct skin reaction pattern. Triggering of urticaria by infections has been discussed for many years but the exact role and pathogenesis of mast cell activation by infectious processes is unclear. In spontaneous acute urticaria there is no doubt for a causal relationship to infections and all chronic urticaria must have started as acute. Whereas in physical or distinct urticaria subtypes the evidence for infections is sparse, remission of annoying spontaneous chronic urticaria has been reported after successful treatment of persistent infections. Current summarizing available studies that evaluated the course of the chronic urticaria after proven Helicobacter eradication demonstrate a statistically significant benefit compared to untreated patients or Helicobacter-negative controls without urticaria (p < 0.001). Since infections can be easily treated some diagnostic procedures should be included in the routine work-up, especially the search for Helicobacter pylori. This review will update the reader regarding the role of infections in different urticaria subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Wedi
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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Shiotani A, Miyanishi T, Kamada T, Haruma K. Helicobacter pylori infection and allergic diseases: epidemiological study in Japanese university students. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 23:e29-33. [PMID: 17725593 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2007.05107.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM A negative association between Helicobacter pylori infection and allergic diseases has not been consistent. The aim of this study was to examine the association between allergic diseases and H. pylori infection in Japan. METHODS Newly enrolled university students completed health survey questionnaires regarding general health and the presence of allergic diseases. Helicobacter pylori status was determined by the presence of serum H. pylori IgG and the presence of allergic manifestations was confirmed by interview. RESULTS A total of 1953 students had a routine health survey; H. pylori status was determined in 777 including 369 with allergic diseases and 408 controls. The reported frequency of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria, bronchial asthma and mixed diseases was 29.0%, 11.1%, 2.0%, 0.9% and 5.0%, respectively. Helicobacter pylori infection was diagnosed less frequently in the allergic group compared with controls (11.4% vs 17.6%, P = 0.015). Helicobacter pylori infection was less frequent in men with allergic diseases (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.27-0.89). CONCLUSION Allergic diseases are frequent in young Japanese adults and are negatively associated with H. pylori infection especially in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Shiotani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kawasaki Medical School, Okayama, Japan.
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18
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de Korwin JD. [Does Helicobacter pylori infection play a role in extragastric diseases?]. Presse Med 2008; 37:525-34. [PMID: 18249521 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2007.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2007] [Accepted: 07/02/2007] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), numerous studies have considered the possibility that it plays a role in different extragastric diseases. Most of these studies may be classified as epidemiological studies or investigations of H. pylori eradication, but there are also case reports and in vitro studies. This review reveals the limitations common to most of them. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is the disease for which the strongest association with H. pylori infection has been shown. Data are also accumulating about the role of H. pylori infection in idiopathic iron deficiency anemia and chronic idiopathic urticaria. Interesting results show that H. pylori infection affects atherosclerosis and is weakly associated with ischemic heart disease and stroke. Moreover, CagA-positive H. pylori strains may play a role in the natural history of atherosclerotic stroke. Recent studies suggest a link between H. pylori and Parkinson's disease. Preliminary data indicate that H. pylori infection impairs gastric ghrelin production and may influence nutritional status. The association between H. pylori infection and other extragastric diseases remains controversial. H. pylori infection may cause extragastric manifestations directly or indirectly, by various mechanisms including atrophic gastritis, the release of inflammatory mediators, molecular mimicry, and systemic immune response. Evidence suggests that anti-H. pylori therapy improves idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (significant increase of platelet count in half of the cases), iron-deficiency anemia, and chronic urticaria (30% remission rate), but the data from randomized controlled trials are insufficient to confirm these positive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Dominique de Korwin
- Service de médecine interne H, Université Henri Poincaré, CHU de Nancy-Hôpital Central, F-54035 Nancy Cedex, France.
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Abstract
Chronic itch is a frequent symptom not only associated with skin diseases. In a number of internal, neurological and psychiatric illnesses pruritus can be a prominent and distressing symptom. Diagnosis is frequently very cumbersome because pruritus in these diseases often does not cause any specific skin lesions. This report focuses on the most important internal disease entities causing pruritus and highlights the most successful diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mettang
- Deutsche Klinik für Diagnostik, Wiesbaden.
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Itoh T, Yoshida M, Chiba T, Kita T, Wakatsuki Y. A coordinated cytotoxic effect of IFN-gamma and cross-reactive antibodies in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori gastritis. Helicobacter 2003; 8:268-78. [PMID: 12950599 DOI: 10.1046/j.1523-5378.2003.00154.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is associated with chronic infiltration into the stomach by T cells and plasma cells producing IFN-gamma and antibodies of various specificities, respectively. It is unknown whether these lymphocyte-products may play coordinated roles in the gastric pathology of this infection. AIMS To know how IFN-gamma may relate to anti-H. pylori antibodies in their roles in pathogenesis, we determined the isotype subclass of those antibodies as well as their cross-reactivity and cytotoxicity to gastric epithelium. METHODS AND RESULTS We infected BALB/c mice with H. pylori (SS1, Sydney Strain 1) and generated monoclonal antibodies, which were comprised of 240 independent clones secreting immunoglobulin and included 80 clones reactive to SS1. Ninety percent of the SS1-reactive clones had IgG2a isotype. Two clones, 2B10 and 1A9, were cross reactive to cell surface antigens in H. pylori and to antigens of 28 KDa and 42 KDa, respectively, which were present on the cell surface of and shared by both mouse and human gastric epithelial cells. The antigens recognized by these monoclonal antibodies localized a distinctive area in the gastric glands. In the presence of complement, 2B10 showed cytotoxicity to gastric epithelial cells. The effect was dose dependant and augmented by IFN-gamma. Finally, administration of 2B10 to mice with SS1 infection aggravated gastritis by increasing cellular infiltration. CONCLUSION IFN-gamma by gastric T cells may participate in pathogenesis of the H. pylori infected stomach by directing an isotype-switch of anti-H. pylori antibodies to complement-binding subclass and by augmenting cytotoxic activity of a certain autoantibody. This may explain a host-dependent diversity in gastric pathology of the patients with H. pylori infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Itoh
- Department of Clinical Bio-regulatory Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawahara-cho Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto city 606-8507, Japan
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Tedeschi A, Airaghi L, Lorini M, Asero R. Chronic urticaria: a role for newer immunomodulatory drugs? Am J Clin Dermatol 2003; 4:297-305. [PMID: 12688835 DOI: 10.2165/00128071-200304050-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Chronic urticaria is now recognized as an autoreactive disorder in a substantial fraction of patients. A serologic mediator of whealing has been demonstrated in 50-60% of patients with chronic urticaria, and autoantibodies against the high affinity IgE receptor or IgE have been detected in about half of these patients. The demonstration that chronic urticaria is frequently autoimmune has encouraged a more aggressive therapeutic approach, with the use of immunomodulatory drugs.A step-by-step approach to the management of chronic urticaria is proposed, based on our personal experience and review of current medical literature, identified through Medline research and hand searching in medical journals. The non- or low-sedating H(1) receptor antagonists (antihistamines), such as cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine, mizolastine and, more recently, levocetirizine, desloratadine and ebastine, represent the basic therapy for all chronic urticaria patients. Older sedating antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine and diphenhydramine, may be indicated if symptoms are severe, are associated with angioedema, and if the patient is anxious and disturbed at night.Corticosteroid therapy with prednisone or methylprednisolone can be administered for a few days (7-14) if urticarial symptoms are not controlled by antihistamines and a rapid clinical response is needed. In cases of relapse after corticosteroid suspension, leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast and zafirlukast, should be tried. In our experience, remission of urticarial symptoms can be achieved in 20-50% of chronic urticaria patients unresponsive to antihistamines alone. When urticaria is unremitting and is not controlled by combined therapy with antihistamines and leukotriene receptor antagonists, prolonged corticosteroid therapy may be needed. Long-term corticosteroid therapy should be administered at the lowest dose able to control urticarial symptoms, in order to minimize adverse effects. In a few patients, however, high-dose corticosteroid therapy may have to be administered for long periods. In these patients, immunosuppressive treatment with low-dose cyclosporine can be started. This type of treatment has a corticosteroid-sparing effect and is also generally effective in patients with severe, unremitting urticaria, but requires careful monitoring of cyclosporine plasma concentration and possible adverse effects. Other immunomodulating drugs that have been tried in chronic urticaria patients include hydroxychloroquine, dapsone, sulfasalazine and methotrexate, but their efficacy has not been proven in large controlled studies. Warfarin therapy may also be considered in some patients with chronic urticaria and angioedema unresponsive to antihistamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Tedeschi
- Allergy and Immunopharmacology Unit, First Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
More than 50% of the human population have long-term Helicobacter pylori infection, causing, in some cases, severe diseases such as peptic ulcers and stomach cancer. In the last few years several extra-gastrointestinal disorders have been associated with H. pylori infection. This review summarized the current medical literature, identified through hand searching and MEDLINE research, including our own studies, with regard to H. pylori and skin diseases. From the literature it can be seen that the role of H. pylori in skin diseases is still a controversial subject. Randomized controlled trials with adequate masking and sample sizes are still lacking. The best evidence comes from studies investigating chronic urticaria in which chronic urticaria disappeared in many patients with H. pylori infection after careful eradication of the H. pylori. Moreover, there are promising recent reports of beneficial H. pylori eradication in Behçet's disease, pruritus cutaneus, prurigo chronica, prurigo nodularis and in some patients with lichen planus, but not in rosacea or psoriasis. Before any conclusions with respect to other skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, Schoenlein-Henoch Purpura, Sweet's syndrome, Sjögren syndrome or systemic sclerosis may be drawn, additional randomized, double-blinded and placebo-controlled studies including adequate diagnostic schedules, sufficient eradication treatment protocols, confirmation of eradication and adequate control groups are needed. The cutaneous pathology of H. pylori is far from being clear, but it is speculated that the systemic effects may involve increased mucosal permeability to alimentary antigens, immunomodulation, an autoimmune mechanism or the impairment of vascular integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Wedi
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Hannover Medical University, Hannover, Germany.
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