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Gao C, Bian X, Wu L, Zhan Q, Yu F, Pan H, Han F, Wang YF, Yang Y. A nomogram predicting the histologic activity of lupus nephritis from clinical parameters. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2024; 39:520-530. [PMID: 37667508 PMCID: PMC10899760 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfad191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2021 clinical guidelines of the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes emphasize the importance of the histological activity index (AI) in the management of lupus nephritis (LN). Patients with LN and a high AI have poor renal outcomes and high rates of nephritic relapse. In this study we constructed prediction models for the AI in LN. METHODS The study population comprised 337 patients diagnosed with LN using kidney biopsy. The participants were randomly divided into training and testing cohorts. They were further divided into high-activity (AI >2) and low-activity (AI ≤2) groups. This study developed two clinical prediction models using logistic regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analyses with laboratory test results collected at the time of kidney biopsy. The performance of models was assessed using 5-fold cross-validation and validated in the testing cohort. A nomogram for individual assessment was constructed based on the preferable model. RESULTS Multivariate analysis showed that higher mean arterial pressure, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, lower complement 3 level, higher urinary erythrocytes count and anti-double-stranded DNA seropositivity were independent risk factors for high histologic activity in LN. Both models performed well in the testing cohort regarding the discriminatory ability to identify patients with an AI >2. The average area under the curve of 5-fold cross-validation was 0.855 in the logistic model and 0.896 in the LASSO model. A webtool based on the LASSO model was created for clinicians to enter baseline clinical parameters to produce a probability score of an AI >2. CONCLUSIONS The established nomogram provides a quantitative auxiliary tool for distinguishing LN patients with a high AI and helps physicians make clinical decisions in their comprehensive assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueyan Bian
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Longlong Wu
- Department of Nephrology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qian Zhan
- Department of Nephrology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fengfei Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong Pan
- Department of Nephrology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Han
- Kidney Disease Center, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yong-Fei Wang
- School of Medicine and Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Nephrology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
- International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
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2
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Xourgia E, Tektonidou MG. Antiphospholipid syndrome nephropathy: Current knowledge and unanswered questions. Clin Immunol 2023; 255:109735. [PMID: 37572950 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
The definition of acute and chronic antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) nephropathy was recently updated using a multiphase methodology in the context of the development of the new APS classification criteria. Currently, there is no consensus for the treatment of APS nephropathy, which mainly relies on the general recommendations for the management of APS. Based on evidence from experimental studies and a few clinical studies and case series, targeted treatments such as B-cell depletion, anti-B-cell activating factor antibody, complement inhibition, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition, and neutrophil extracellular traps or interferon targeting may show promise for the treatment of microvascular manifestations in APS, including APS nephropathy. Validation of the new APS nephropathy definition and/or efforts for improvement in proposed terminology, along with the assessment of the safety and efficacy of potential targeted treatments in randomized controlled trials, are major future research directions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of APS nephropathy and discuss unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Xourgia
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria G Tektonidou
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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3
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Chock EY, Domingues V, Dufrost V, Risse J, Seshan SV, Barbhaiya M, Sartelet H, Erkan D, Wahl D, Zuily S. Increased risk of acute and chronic microvascular renal lesions associated with antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2022; 21:103158. [PMID: 35907609 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microvascular renal lesions have been described in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), however their association with aPL is inconsistent among studies. Therefore, our objective was to investigate associations between microvascular renal lesions and aPL among systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. METHODS Studies were selected if they included SLE patients with and without aPL positivity with a description of kidney biopsy identifying acute and/or chronic microvascular renal lesions as well as lupus nephritis. Data sources were Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, hand search, congress abstracts, and reference lists of studies, without language restrictions. Risk estimates were independently extracted by 2 investigators. Pooled effect estimates were obtained by using the Mantel-Haenszel method (random effects). RESULTS Of 1860 identified records obtained between 1991 and 2021, 35 published studies (10 cohorts, 7 case-control, 18 cross-sectional) met inclusion criteria, including 3035 SLE patients according to American College of Rheumatology criteria and 454 cases of microvascular renal lesions. Frequency of microvascular renal lesions in aPL-positive vs. aPL-negative SLE patients was 31.3% vs. 10.4%, respectively. The overall pooled odds ratios (OR) for microvascular renal lesions in aPL-positive vs. aPL-negative SLE patients was 3.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.25-4.09). The risk of microvascular renal lesions was the highest for lupus anticoagulant (OR = 4.84 [95% CI, 2.93 to 8.02]) and IgG anticardiolipin antibodies (OR = 3.12 [95% CI,1.08-9.02]) while the association with anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies (OR = 1.88 [95% CI, 0.25-14.14]) did not reach statistical significance. Furthermore, aPL were not associated with any classes of lupus nephritis. CONCLUSION In SLE patients, aPL-positivity is associated with a significant 3- to 5-fold increased risk for specific microvascular renal lesions. This risk is mainly driven by lupus anticoagulant and IgG anticardiolipin antibodies. Our results support the inclusion of microvascular renal lesions as new criteria for definite antiphospholipid syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Virginie Dufrost
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, DCAC and CHRU-Nancy, Vascular Medicine Division and Regional Competence Center for Rare Auto-Immune Diseases, Nancy, France
| | - Jessie Risse
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, DCAC and CHRU-Nancy, Vascular Medicine Division and Regional Competence Center for Rare Auto-Immune Diseases, Nancy, France
| | - Surya V Seshan
- Department of Pathology, Weill-Cornell Medical Center/New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Medha Barbhaiya
- Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Diseases, Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Doruk Erkan
- Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Diseases, Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Denis Wahl
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, DCAC and CHRU-Nancy, Vascular Medicine Division and Regional Competence Center for Rare Auto-Immune Diseases, Nancy, France
| | - Stephane Zuily
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, DCAC and CHRU-Nancy, Vascular Medicine Division and Regional Competence Center for Rare Auto-Immune Diseases, Nancy, France.
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4
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Scheen M, Adedjouma A, Esteve E, Buob D, Abisror N, Planche V, Fain O, Boffa JJ, De Seigneux S, Mekinian A, Haidar F. Kidney disease in antiphospholipid antibody syndrome: Risk factors, pathophysiology and management. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103072. [PMID: 35217200 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLS) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by recurrent arterial and venous thromboembolic events, pregnancy related complications as well as the persistent detection of antiphospholipid antibodies at a 12 week interval. Renal complications tend to occur in 3% of APLS patients, with renal artery stenosis being the most common kidney related complication. Renal pathology may be subdivided into macro as well as microvascular thrombotic complications with stenosis, thrombosis and infarction representing the principle macrovascular events and APLS nephropathy representing the predominant microvascular complication. APLS related kidney disease may present with an array of heterogenous manifestations ranging from hematuria and non-nephrotic range proteinuria to hypertension or as part of a severe, life threatening and fulminant multiorgan failure disorder known as catastrophic antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (CAPS). Management of APLS related renal complications depends on the site of vascular injury, the thromboembolic risk profile based on the subtype, isotype and titer of the autoantibodies as well as the severity of the injury. Primary prophylaxis in these patients primarily revolves around the use of low dose aspirin, with prophylactic anticoagulation during events that increase thromboembolic like surgery and hospitalization. Anticoagulation is the cornerstone of treatment of APLS related kidney disease with INR targets varying depending on the associated venous or arterial thrombosis. Immunosuppression with the likes of rituximab, mTOR inhibitors, eculizumab and belimumab have been used with some success, but lack randomized control trial validation for their use. Pulsed corticosteroids with Plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulins is the recommended treatment for CAPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Scheen
- Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève, Service de Néphrologie, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Genève, Switzerland.
| | - Amir Adedjouma
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Médecine Interne, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Esteve
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, Service de Néphrologie, 75020 Paris, France
| | - David Buob
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, Service de Anatomopathologie, 75020 Paris, France
| | - Noémie Abisror
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Médecine Interne, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Virginie Planche
- Sorbonne Université, Service de Hématologie biologique, APHP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Fain
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Médecine Interne, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Jean Jacques Boffa
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, Service de Néphrologie, 75020 Paris, France
| | - Sophie De Seigneux
- Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève, Service de Néphrologie, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Genève, Switzerland
| | - Arsène Mekinian
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Médecine Interne, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Fadi Haidar
- Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève, Service de Néphrologie, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Genève, Switzerland
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5
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Stanescu C, Andronesi AG, Jurcut C, Gherghiceanu M, Vornicu A, Burcea FA, Andronesi TD, Lupusoru GE, Iliuta L, Sorohan BM, Obrisca B, Ismail G. Successful Treatment of Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome Using Rituximab: Case Report and Review of the Literature. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:912. [PMID: 34577835 PMCID: PMC8470109 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kidney involvement is a frequent complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and kidney biopsy is essential in differentiating lupus nephritis (LN) from thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) secondary to antiphospholipid autoantibodies (aPL). Association between antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and acquired hemophilia due to inhibitors was very rarely described in SLE patients. CASE PRESENTATION We present the case of a 61-year-old male diagnosed with SLE who acquired deficiency of clotting factor VIII due to circulating inhibitors, admitted for acute kidney injury (AKI), microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and diplopia. Kidney biopsy showed TMA due to APS, but no signs of LN. Head computed tomography identified low dense areas in the white matter, suggesting small blood vessels' involvement. A diagnosis of probable catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) was established and treatment with low molecular weight heparin, intravenous methylprednisolone, plasmapheresis, and rituximab was initiated, followed by resolution of AKI, diplopia, and TMA with complete depletion of CD19+B-lymphocytes (CD19+B-Ly) after one month. We further review the current knowledge regarding pathogenesis and management of CAPS in SLE patients. CONCLUSIONS Targeted therapy was possible after kidney biopsy, improving renal and general prognosis. CD19+B-Ly repopulation preceded biological relapse, so monitoring of CD19+B-Ly may serve as a tool to predict relapses and guide rituximab therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Stanescu
- Nephrology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania; (C.S.); (A.V.); (F.A.B.); (G.E.L.); (G.I.)
| | - Andreea Gabriella Andronesi
- Nephrology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania; (C.S.); (A.V.); (F.A.B.); (G.E.L.); (G.I.)
- Nephrology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050471 Bucharest, Romania; (B.M.S.); (B.O.)
| | - Ciprian Jurcut
- Internal Medicine Department, “Carol Davila” Military Emergency Hospital, 010225 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- “Victor Babes” National Institute for Research and Development in Pathology and Biomedical Sciences, 050097 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Alexandra Vornicu
- Nephrology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania; (C.S.); (A.V.); (F.A.B.); (G.E.L.); (G.I.)
| | - Florentina Andreea Burcea
- Nephrology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania; (C.S.); (A.V.); (F.A.B.); (G.E.L.); (G.I.)
| | - Toader Danut Andronesi
- Department of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Gabriela Elena Lupusoru
- Nephrology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania; (C.S.); (A.V.); (F.A.B.); (G.E.L.); (G.I.)
- Nephrology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050471 Bucharest, Romania; (B.M.S.); (B.O.)
| | - Luminita Iliuta
- Department of Biostatistics, Marketing and Medical Technology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050471 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Bogdan Marian Sorohan
- Nephrology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050471 Bucharest, Romania; (B.M.S.); (B.O.)
| | - Bogdan Obrisca
- Nephrology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050471 Bucharest, Romania; (B.M.S.); (B.O.)
| | - Gener Ismail
- Nephrology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania; (C.S.); (A.V.); (F.A.B.); (G.E.L.); (G.I.)
- Nephrology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050471 Bucharest, Romania; (B.M.S.); (B.O.)
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6
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Morales E, Galindo M, Trujillo H, Praga M. Update on Lupus Nephritis: Looking for a New Vision. Nephron Clin Pract 2020; 145:1-13. [PMID: 33147587 DOI: 10.1159/000511268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most common manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), affecting approximately 40% of patients with lupus. It represents a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality, and 10% of patients with LN will develop end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Therefore, there are a number of areas for improvement in the field of LN such as the search for new clinical biomarkers with a more accurate correlation with lupus activity and the redefinition of the histological classification into different subgroups in order to guide a personalized treatment. Although the role of protocol repeat kidney biopsies in LN is controversial, recent publications suggest that repeat histological assessment can be useful in guiding therapeutic decisions that may yield toward precision medicine. In the last decade, LN therapy has remained largely unchanged, with a probability of achieving complete or partial remission not exceeding 60-70%. Thus, optimization of old treatment strategies and search for new agents are urgently needed in order to improve outcomes such as mortality or development of ESKD. Future trials should focus in addressing unanswered issues such as the appropriate dose and duration of immunosuppressive treatment, timing of steroid withdrawal, and drug toxicity. In addition, data are still lacking regarding pregnancy and kidney transplantation in LN and knowledge about these important areas is essential for the management of a subset of patients with SLE. In summary, several major gaps are still present in the therapeutic approach and follow-up of patients with LN. The development of new clinical trial designs will be crucial in the search to improve long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Morales
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain, .,Research Institute of University Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain,
| | - Maria Galindo
- Research Institute of University Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain
| | - Hernando Trujillo
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain.,Research Institute of University Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Praga
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain.,Research Institute of University Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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7
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Svenungsson E, Antovic A. The antiphospholipid syndrome - often overlooked cause of vascular occlusions? J Intern Med 2020; 287:349-372. [PMID: 31957081 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Svenungsson
- From the, Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Rheumatology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Antovic
- From the, Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Rheumatology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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8
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Tektonidou MG. Antiphospholipid Syndrome Nephropathy: From Pathogenesis to Treatment. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1181. [PMID: 29904380 PMCID: PMC5990608 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney damage is a well-recognized complication of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), either primary or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-associated APS. Kidney involvement in APS involves a variety of manifestations, such as renal artery thrombosis or stenosis, renal vein thrombosis, allograft loss due to thrombosis after kidney transplantation, and injury to the renal microvasculature, also known as APS nephropathy. Biopsy in patients with APS nephropathy includes acute thrombotic microangiopathy lesions and chronic intrarenal vascular lesions such as interlobular fibrous intimal hyperplasia, arterial and arteriolar recanalizing thrombosis, fibrous arterial occlusion, and focal cortical atrophy. The most frequent clinical features are hypertension, microscopic hematuria, proteinuria (ranging from mild to nephritic levels), and renal insufficiency. It is uncertain whether antiphospholipid antibodies or other factors are implicated in the development of APS nephropathy, and whether it is driven mainly by thrombotic or by inflammatory processes. Experimental models and clinical studies of thrombotic microangiopathy lesions implicate activation of the complement cascade, tissue factor, and the mTORC pathway. Currently, the management of APS nephropathy relies on expert opinion, and consensus is lacking. There is limited evidence about the effect of anticoagulants, and their use remains controversial. Treatment approaches in patients with APS nephropathy lesions may include the use of heparin based on its role on complement activation pathway inhibition or the use of intravenous immunoglobulin and/or plasma exchange. Targeted therapies may also be considered based on potential APS nephropathy pathogenetic mechanisms such as B-cell directed therapies, complement inhibition, tissue factor inhibition, mTOR pathway inhibition, or anti-interferon antibodies, but prospective multicenter studies are needed to address their role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Tektonidou
- Joint Rheumatology Academic Program, First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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9
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de Holanda MI, Pôrto LC, Wagner T, Christiani LF, Palma LMP. Use of eculizumab in a systemic lupus erythemathosus patient presenting thrombotic microangiopathy and heterozygous deletion in CFHR1-CFHR3. A case report and systematic review. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 36:2859-2867. [PMID: 28905254 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3823-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The association of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been described in 0.5 to 10% of cases, and patients present worse outcome. TMA is described as the association of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and an organ injury, frequently the kidney. This study describes a successful case of use of eculizumab in a patient with SLE and TMA refractory to standard therapy, and provides a literature review. Case description and search in PubMed and MEDLINE using systemic lupus erythemathous and/or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and eculizumab retrieved 15 case reports. Eighteen-year-old female presented acute renal failure and TMA and was diagnosed with SLE. Steroids and IV cyclophosphamide were started together with plasma exchange. After 55 days, she still persisted with microangiopathic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and anuria, and eculizumab was introduced. She had rapid improvement in hematological parameters, and dialysis was discontinued 25 days after the first dose. Genetic analysis showed large heterozygous deletion encompassing the entire CFHR1 and CFHR3, a finding previously associated with patients presenting atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS). Twenty patients who received eculizumab with SLE and/or APS have been published to date: 11 were female and mean age at presentation was 31 years. Seven out of the 20 patients presented only SLE, 5 patients only APS and 8 patients both SLE and APS. Eighteen patients underwent plasma exchange, with a mean of 20 (4-120) sessions per patient. Thirteen patients received rituximab. Hematological response was evident in 100% and kidney recovery in 85% of patients. The terminal complement blockade with eculizumab is an optional treatment for patients with SLE and/or APS presenting TMA and refractory to current immunosuppression therapies. Genetic testing may help recognize patients with aHUS and SLE/APS and therefore help to determine length of treatment with eculizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Izabel de Holanda
- Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Hospital Federal de Bonsucesso, Av. Londres 616, Prédio 1, segundo andar, Departamento de Nefrologia e Transplante Renal, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Luis Cristóvão Pôrto
- Histocompatibility and Cryopreservation Laboratory, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Teresa Wagner
- Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Hospital Federal de Bonsucesso, Av. Londres 616, Prédio 1, segundo andar, Departamento de Nefrologia e Transplante Renal, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luis Fernando Christiani
- Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Hospital Federal de Bonsucesso, Av. Londres 616, Prédio 1, segundo andar, Departamento de Nefrologia e Transplante Renal, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lilian M P Palma
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Unicamp, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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10
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Gracia-Tello B, Isenberg D. Kidney disease in primary anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2017; 56:1069-1080. [PMID: 27550302 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kew307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
APS is an autoimmune disease defined by the presence of arterial or venous thrombotic events and/or pregnancy morbidity in patients who test positive for aPL. APS can be isolated (primary APS) or associated with other autoimmune diseases. The kidney is a major target organ in APS, and renal thrombosis can occur at any level within the vasculature of the kidney (renal arteries, intrarenal vasculature and renal veins). Histological findings vary widely, including ischaemic glomeruli and thrombotic lesions without glomerular or arterial immune deposits on immunofluorescence. Renal involvement in patients with definite APS is treated with long-term anticoagulants as warfarin, but new treatments are being tried. The aim of this article is to review the links between primary APS and kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Isenberg
- Centre for Rheumatology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
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Mejía-Vilet JM, Córdova-Sánchez BM, Uribe-Uribe NO, Correa-Rotter R, Morales-Buenrostro LE. Prognostic significance of renal vascular pathology in lupus nephritis. Lupus 2017; 26:1042-1050. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203317692419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
We performed a retrospective cohort analysis to define the prognostic significance of vascular lesions documented in renal biopsies of lupus nephritis patients. A total of 429 patients were segregated into five groups: (1) no vascular lesions (NVL), (2) arterial sclerosis (AS), (3) non-inflammatory necrotizing vasculitis (NNV), (4) thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), and (5) true renal vasculitis (TRV). Renal outcomes were analyzed by Cox regression models, and correlations between vascular lesions and activity/chronicity scores were determined by Spearman's coefficients. A total of 200 (46.6%) had NVL, 189 (44.0%) AS, six NNV (1.4%), 23 (5.4%) TMA, and 11 (2.6%) TRV. Patients with NVL were younger, with higher renal function; patients with TMA and TRV had lower renal function and higher arterial pressure at baseline. Antiphospholipid syndrome and positive lupus anticoagulant were more frequently observed in the TMA group. Five-year renal survival was 83% for NVL, 63% for AS, 67% for NNV, 31% for TMA, and 33% for TRV. NNV and TRV were significantly correlated with activity scores, while AS and chronic TMA were correlated with chronicity scores. Renal vascular lesions are associated with renal outcomes but do not behave as independent factors. The addition of vascular lesions to currently used scores should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Mejía-Vilet
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism, National Medical Science and Nutrition Institute Salvador Zubirán, Mexico
| | - B M Córdova-Sánchez
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism, National Medical Science and Nutrition Institute Salvador Zubirán, Mexico
| | - N O Uribe-Uribe
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Science and Nutrition Institute Salvador Zubirán, Mexico
| | - R Correa-Rotter
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism, National Medical Science and Nutrition Institute Salvador Zubirán, Mexico
| | - L E Morales-Buenrostro
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism, National Medical Science and Nutrition Institute Salvador Zubirán, Mexico
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Gao R, Yu W, Wen Y, Li H. Beta2-glycoprotein I Expression in Lupus Nephritis Patients with Antiphospholipid-associated Nephropathy. J Rheumatol 2016; 43:2026-2032. [PMID: 27633824 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.151395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Antiphospholipid-associated nephropathy (aPLN) is a severe condition in patients with lupus nephritis (LN). aPLN should be distinguished from other reasons for renal ischemia. The most important cofactor of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI), was shown in vitro to bind endothelial cells and to induce a procoagulant phenotype. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether β2GPI expression was involved in patients with LN with aPLN and to determine its specificity. METHODS We retrospectively investigated β2GPI expression in 231 renal biopsy specimens of patients with LN. Data from biopsy reports and clinical information were collected. Immunohistochemical staining for β2GPI expression was performed. RESULTS Histological aPLN was detected in 88 patients with LN (38.1%). The LN with aPLN consisted of 43 patients (18.6%). Expression of β2GPI was detected in endothelial cells in 14 (32.6%) in renal arteries or arterioles, 11 (25.6%) in glomerular or peritubular capillaries, and a total of 15 (34.9%) of the 43 patients with LN with aPLN. It was mainly expressed in the endothelial cells in patients with LN with aPLN (p < 0.05). The specificity of β2GPI expression in patients with LN with aPLN was 97.5%. CONCLUSION Expression of β2GPI may be involved in the formation of aPLN in patients with LN. This expression in endothelial cells in kidney tissue may be considered a useful marker for aPLN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruitong Gao
- From the Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China.,R. Gao, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; W. Yu, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Y. Wen, MMed, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; H. Li, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital
| | - Wenqing Yu
- From the Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China.,R. Gao, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; W. Yu, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Y. Wen, MMed, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; H. Li, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital
| | - Yubing Wen
- From the Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China.,R. Gao, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; W. Yu, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Y. Wen, MMed, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; H. Li, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital
| | - Hang Li
- From the Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China. .,R. Gao, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; W. Yu, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Y. Wen, MMed, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; H. Li, MD, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital.
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Barbour TD, Crosthwaite A, Chow K, Finlay MJ, Better N, Hughes PD, Cohney SJ. Antiphospholipid syndrome in renal transplantation. Nephrology (Carlton) 2014; 19:177-85. [PMID: 24548061 DOI: 10.1111/nep.12217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) may occur in isolation or in association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with the potential to cause renal failure via several distinct pathologies. Renal transplantation in the presence of APS carries a risk of early graft loss from arterial or venous thrombosis, or thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Whilst perioperative anticoagulation reduces the risk of large vessel thrombosis, it may result in significant haemorrhage, and its efficacy in preventing post-transplant TMA is uncertain. Here, we report a patient with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) due to lupus nephritis and APS, in whom allograft TMA developed soon after transplantation despite partial anticoagulation. TMA resolved with plasma exchange-based therapy albeit with some irreversible graft damage and renal impairment. We discuss the differential diagnosis of post-transplant TMA, and current treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Barbour
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mubarak M, Nasri H. What nephrolopathologists need to know about antiphospholipid syndrome-associated nephropathy: Is it time for formulating a classification for renal morphologic lesions? J Nephropathol 2014; 3:4-8. [PMID: 24644536 DOI: 10.12860/jnp.2014.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder which commonly affects kidneys. EVIDENCE ACQUISITIONS Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), Google Scholar, PubMed (NLM), LISTA (EBSCO) and Web of Science have been searched. RESULTS There is sufficient epidemiological, clinical and histopathological evidence to show that antiphospholipid syndrome is a distinctive lesion caused by antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with different forms of antiphospholipid syndrome. It is now time to devise a classification for an accurate diagnosis and prognostication of the disease. CONCLUSIONS Now that the morphological lesions of APSN are sufficiently well characterized, it is prime time to devise a classification which is of diagnostic and prognostic utility in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Mubarak
- Department of Histopathology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hamid Nasri
- Department of Nephrology, Division of Nephropathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Antiphospholipid syndrome nephropathy (APSN) in patients with lupus nephritis: a retrospective clinical and renal pathology study. Rheumatol Int 2013; 34:535-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-013-2900-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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17
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Abud-Mendoza C. Lupus nephritis: advances in the knowledge of its immunopathogenesis without the expected therapeutic success? REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2013; 9:77-79. [PMID: 23465964 DOI: 10.1016/j.reuma.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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Sprangers B, Monahan M, Appel GB. Diagnosis and treatment of lupus nephritis flares--an update. Nat Rev Nephrol 2012; 8:709-17. [PMID: 23147758 DOI: 10.1038/nrneph.2012.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Relapses or flares of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are frequent and observed in 27-66% of patients. SLE flares are defined as an increase in disease activity, in general, requiring alternative treatment or intensification of therapy. A renal flare is indicated by an increase in proteinuria and/or serum creatinine concentration, abnormal urine sediment or a reduction in creatinine clearance rate as a result of active disease. The morbidity associated with renal flares is derived from both the kidney damage due to lupus nephritis and treatment-related toxic effects. Current induction treatment protocols achieve remission in the majority of patients with lupus nephritis; however, few studies focus on treatment interventions for renal flares in these patients. The available data, however, suggest that remission can be induced again in a substantial percentage of patients experiencing a lupus nephritis flare. Lupus nephritis flares are independently associated with an increased risk of deterioration in renal function; prevention of renal flares might, therefore, also decrease long-term morbidity and mortality. Appropriate immunosuppressive maintenance therapy might lead to a decrease in the occurrence of renal and extrarenal flares in patients with SLE, and monitoring for the early detection and treatment of renal flares could improve their outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Sprangers
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Bertsias GK, Tektonidou M, Amoura Z, Aringer M, Bajema I, Berden JHM, Boletis J, Cervera R, Dörner T, Doria A, Ferrario F, Floege J, Houssiau FA, Ioannidis JPA, Isenberg DA, Kallenberg CGM, Lightstone L, Marks SD, Martini A, Moroni G, Neumann I, Praga M, Schneider M, Starra A, Tesar V, Vasconcelos C, van Vollenhoven RF, Zakharova H, Haubitz M, Gordon C, Jayne D, Boumpas DT. Joint European League Against Rheumatism and European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (EULAR/ERA-EDTA) recommendations for the management of adult and paediatric lupus nephritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2012; 71:1771-82. [PMID: 22851469 PMCID: PMC3465859 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2012-201940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 679] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop recommendations for the management of adult and paediatric lupus nephritis (LN). METHODS The available evidence was systematically reviewed using the PubMed database. A modified Delphi method was used to compile questions, elicit expert opinions and reach consensus. RESULTS Immunosuppressive treatment should be guided by renal biopsy, and aiming for complete renal response (proteinuria <0.5 g/24 h with normal or near-normal renal function). Hydroxychloroquine is recommended for all patients with LN. Because of a more favourable efficacy/toxicity ratio, as initial treatment for patients with class III-IV(A) or (A/C) (±V) LN according to the International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society 2003 classification, mycophenolic acid (MPA) or low-dose intravenous cyclophosphamide (CY) in combination with glucocorticoids is recommended. In patients with adverse clinical or histological features, CY can be prescribed at higher doses, while azathioprine is an alternative for milder cases. For pure class V LN with nephrotic-range proteinuria, MPA in combination with oral glucocorticoids is recommended as initial treatment. In patients improving after initial treatment, subsequent immunosuppression with MPA or azathioprine is recommended for at least 3 years; in such cases, initial treatment with MPA should be followed by MPA. For MPA or CY failures, switching to the other agent, or to rituximab, is the suggested course of action. In anticipation of pregnancy, patients should be switched to appropriate medications without reducing the intensity of treatment. There is no evidence to suggest that management of LN should differ in children versus adults. CONCLUSIONS Recommendations for the management of LN were developed using an evidence-based approach followed by expert consensus.
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Affiliation(s)
- George K Bertsias
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University of Crete, Iraklion, Greece
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Silvariño R, Sant F, Espinosa G, Pons-Estel G, Solé M, Cervera R, Arrizabalaga P. Nephropathy associated with antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2011; 20:721-9. [PMID: 21486929 DOI: 10.1177/0961203310397410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nephropathy associated with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) has been proposed as a risk factor of worse renal prognosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the prevalence of aPL-associated nephropathy (aPLN) among patients with lupus nephritis and to describe their functional renal outcome. METHODS A total of 79 renal biopsies from 77 patients followed at the Hospital Clinic, Spain were analysed. Each renal biopsy was evaluated by a pathologist who was blinded to the aPL status. Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), fibrous intimal hyperplasia (FIH), fibrocellular arterial occlusion (FAO), focal cortical atrophy (FCA), and tubular thyroidization as lesions suggestive of aPLN were identified. RESULTS aPLN was found in nine (11.4%) biopsies. TMA was found in three (33.3%) cases whereas chronic aPLN, represented by FIH and FCA, was found in four (44.4%) and three (33.3%) cases, respectively. A significant association between the presence of aPL and aPLN was found (p = 0.003). Patients with lupus anticoagulant (LA) plus IgG anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) showed an increased prevalence of aPLN (OR: 3.61, 95% CI 1.28-5.14; p = 0.002). Creatinine levels were significantly increased in patients with aPLN compared with those with aPL without aPLN (p = 0.038). However, no significant difference in complete remission, partial remission, not response, and established renal damage between groups was observed at the end of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The aPL have an important role in the pathogenesis of renal lesions in SLE patients. Prospective studies are needed to address the role of aPLN in the long-term outcome of SLE patients with positive aPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Silvariño
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Abstract
Lupus nephritis is a common and severe complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. A number of patients have nephritis as a presenting feature that, in its severe form, can shortly lead to end-stage renal disease and/or death. Renal flare usually occurs a few years after the first episode and is remarkably predominant in the Asian population. Frequent monitoring for renal flare enhances early recognition and timely treatment. The mainstay therapy continues to be the prolonged use of cytotoxic/immunosuppressive drugs that have a number of undesirable effects, particularly ovarian failure and development of opportunistic infections. This review will focus on the pathogenesis and the unique genetic factors found in Asian patients with lupus nephritis. Here, we propose an appropriate management scheme for the treatment of lupus nephritis in Asian patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Avihingsanon
- Lupus Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Nicklin A, Byard RW. Lethal manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus in a forensic context. J Forensic Sci 2011; 56:423-8. [PMID: 21306376 DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2010.01683.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder that affects multiple organs. While the clinical manifestations may vary in intensity over time and be associated with chronic disease, occasional cases occur where sudden and unexpected death has occurred. Cardiovascular disease is common, with accelerated atherosclerosis, intravascular thrombosis associated with antiphospholipid syndrome, and hypertensive cardiomegaly. Vasculitis with superimposed thrombosis may result in critical reduction in blood to vital organs, such as the heart and brain with infarction. Mesenteric ischemia may be caused by vasculitis, thrombosis, and accelerated atherosclerosis and may result in lethal intestinal infarction. Other diverse causes of sudden death include myocarditis, epilepsy, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary thromboembolism, and sepsis. The autopsy evaluation of such cases requires careful examination of all organs with extensive histological sampling to include blood vessels, and microbiological sampling for bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Nicklin
- Discipline of Pathology & Forensic Science SA, The University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide 5005, Australia
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Alchi B, Griffiths M, Jayne D. What nephrologists need to know about antiphospholipid syndrome. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2010; 25:3147-54. [PMID: 20587422 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfq356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent arterial or venous thrombosis and/or pregnancy losses, in the presence of persistently elevated levels of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) and/or evidence of circulating lupus anticoagulant (LA). The kidney is a major target organ in both primary and secondary APS. With the expanding spectrum of renal diseases associated with APS, and the impact of APS in ESRD care, this subject is of increasing relevance to nephrologists. This review describes the various clinical manifestations and histological features of this syndrome, with reference to the kidney.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bassam Alchi
- Renal Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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Miranda JM, Jara LJ, Calleja C, Saavedra MA, Bustamante RM, Angeles U. Clinical significance of antiphospholipid syndrome nephropathy (APSN) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 5:209-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reuma.2008.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2008] [Revised: 11/26/2008] [Accepted: 12/04/2008] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Zheng H, Chen Y, Ao W, Shen Y, Chen XW, Dai M, Wang XD, Yan YC, Yang CD. Antiphospholipid antibody profiles in lupus nephritis with glomerular microthrombosis: a prospective study of 124 cases. Arthritis Res Ther 2009; 11:R93. [PMID: 19545416 PMCID: PMC2714149 DOI: 10.1186/ar2736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2009] [Revised: 04/30/2009] [Accepted: 06/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Glomerular microthrombosis (GMT) is a common vascular change in patients with lupus nephritis (LN). The mechanism underlying GMT is largely unknown. Although several studies have reported the association of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) with GMT, the relation between GMT and aPL remains controversial. Previous studies have demonstrated that some aPL could bind to several hemostatic and fibrinolytic proteases that share homologous enzymatic domains. Of the protease-reactive aPL, some can inhibit the anticoagulant activity of activated protein C and the fibrinolytic function of plasmin, and hinder the antithrombin inactivation of thrombin. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of GMT in LN patients and examine the relation between the aPL profiles (including some protease-reactive aPL) and GMT. Methods Renal biopsy specimens were examined for the presence of glomerular microthrombi. Plasma samples from 25 LN patients with GMT (LN-GMT group) and 99 LN patients without GMT (LN-non-GMT group) were tested for lupus anticoagulant and antibodies against cardiolipin, β2 glycoprotein I, plasmin, thrombin, tissue plasminogen activator, and annexin II. Results The prevalence of GMT in LN patients was 20.2%. Compared with the LN-non-GMT group, the LN-GMT group had an elevated systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index; elevated renal tissue injury activity and chronicity indices; elevated serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and proteinuria levels; a lower serum C3 level and much intense glomerular C3, C1q staining; and a higher frequency of hypertension (P < 0.05 for all). Additionally, the detection rate of lupus anticoagulant, immunoglobulin G (IgG) anti-β2 glycoprotein I and anti-thrombin antibodies were higher in the LN-GMT group than in the LN-non-GMT group (P < 0.05 for all). No statistical differences were found in the detection rates of IgG anti-cardiolipin, plasmin, tissue plasminogen activator, or annexin II antibodies (P > 0.05 for all). No detectable difference in IgM autoantibodies to the above antigens was observed between the two groups. Conclusions GMT occurs in approximately 20.2% of LN patients. Patients with GMT have severer renal tissue injuries and poorer renal functions than patients without GMT. The lupus anticoagulant and antibodies against β2 glycoprotein I and thrombin may play a role in GMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, PR China.
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Galindo M, Gonzalo E, Martinez-Vidal MP, Montes S, Redondo N, Santiago B, Loza E, Pablos JL. Immunohistochemical detection of intravascular platelet microthrombi in patients with lupus nephritis and anti-phospholipid antibodies. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2009; 48:1003-7. [PMID: 19542214 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kep152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate whether the use of platelet immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers improves the sensitivity of histological methods to detect microthrombosis in SLE nephritis and aPLs and to analyse the clinicopathological correlations of microthrombosis in this setting. METHODS Kidney biopsy specimens from 65 patients with SLE, including 36 with positive aPLs, were studied by IHC using antibodies against platelet glycoproteins CD41 and CD61. Clinical data at the time of kidney biopsy and during a mean follow-up of 7.5 years after biopsy were recorded and analysed with regard to histological or IHC data. RESULTS Histological lesions previously defined as APS nephropathy were found in 33% of the SLE kidney biopsies and were not associated with positive aPLs. Microthrombi detected as intravascular CD61(+) platelet deposits were present in 43% of the tissues and were significantly associated with positive aPLs, but not with histological APS nephropathy, nephritis manifestations nor with renal outcome. Histological APS lesions but not CD61(+) microthrombi correlated with an older age at nephritis presentation, previous cardiovascular risk factors and worse renal outcome. CONCLUSIONS Immunodetection of intravascular CD61(+) platelet aggregates is more sensitive than histological evaluation to detect acute microthrombosis and provides a better correlation with aPLs in SLE patients. In contrast, histological lesions consistent with APS nephropathy were not associated with aPLs but with cardiovascular risk factors and worse renal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Galindo
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2008; 20:631-2. [PMID: 18698190 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0b013e3283110091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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