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Bodra D, D'Souza AVL, Khan E. Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy in Lupus Nephritis. Cureus 2024; 16:e55603. [PMID: 38586696 PMCID: PMC10998645 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55603] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
A prevalent clinical scenario is provided in this case study, in which a 22-year-old lady with a five-year history of lupus nephritis with acute motor axonal neuropathy presents for therapy. The patient received immunomodulator medication and steroids to control her symptoms to keep up with her everyday life despite the absence of comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. No laboratory measures were changed, including hemoglobin, serum creatinine, or thyroid function. Examining the nervous system indicated a potentially harmful consequence, underscoring the significance of prompt investigation and treatment. This research highlighted the importance of attention in cases with lupus nephritis, showing how early medical care can prevent serious neurological problems and contribute to the patient's general well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diljeet Bodra
- Nephrology, Father Muller Medical College and Hospital, Mangalore, IND
| | | | - Essar Khan
- Nephrology, Father Muller Medical College and Hospital, Mangalore, IND
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2
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Venturelli V, Abrantes AM, Rahman A, Isenberg DA. The impact of antiphospholipid antibodies/antiphospholipid syndrome on systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024; 63:SI72-SI85. [PMID: 38320586 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
aPLs are a major determinant of the increased cardiovascular risk in patients with SLE. They adversely affect clinical manifestations, damage accrual and prognosis. Apart from the antibodies included in the 2006 revised classification criteria for APS, other non-classical aPLs might help in identifying SLE patients at increased risk of thrombotic events. The best studied are IgA anti-β2-glycoprotein I, anti-domain I β2-glycoprotein I and aPS-PT. Major organ involvement includes kidney and neuropsychiatric systems. aPL/APS severely impacts pregnancy outcomes. Due to increased thrombotic risk, these patients require aggressive cardiovascular risk factor control. Primary prophylaxis is based on low-dose aspirin in high-risk patients. Warfarin is the gold-standard drug for secondary prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Venturelli
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S. Anna, Cona, Italy
| | - Ana Mafalda Abrantes
- Division of Internal Medicine II, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Semiótica Clínica, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anisur Rahman
- Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - David A Isenberg
- Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
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3
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Waliszewska-Prosół M, Ejma M. Assessment of Visual and Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials in Patients with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:3258942. [PMID: 33763490 PMCID: PMC7946475 DOI: 10.1155/2021/3258942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study was aimed to evaluate parameters of visual and brainstem auditory evoked potentials (VEP, BAEP) in euthyreotic Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) patients without central nervous system involvement. METHODS 100 HT patients (92 women, 8 men), mean age 46.9 years, and 50 healthy controls. They underwent a neurological examination, thyroid hormone levels, thyroid autoantibody titers, and brain imaging. Latencies and amplitudes of the N75, P100, and N145 component of VEP and the I-V components of BAEP were analyzed. RESULTS The neurological examination revealed in 31 patients signs of increased neurovegetative excitability. Brain resonance imaging showed no abnormalities in HT patients. The mean P100, relative P100, and N145 VEP latencies were significantly longer, and P100 amplitude significantly higher in HT patients than the controls. HT patients also had a longer mean wave BAEP V latency and mean wave III-V and I-V interpeak latencies, and significantly lower mean wave I and V amplitudes. Abnormal VEP and BAEP were recorded in 34% of the patients. There were no statistically significant correlations between the mean VEP parameters and thyroid profile and the applied dose of L-thyroxine. There was a relationship between the level of TSH and the wave BAEP III-V interpeak latency. CONCLUSIONS There were changes in the brain's bioelectrical activity in one-third of the patients with HT without nervous system involvement. The increased amplitude of the VEP may indicate increased cerebral cortex activity. Disorders of the brain's bioelectrical activity in the course of HT may be associated with an autoimmune process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Ejma
- Department of Neurology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
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Borisova AB, Lisitsyna TA, Veltishchev DY, Reshetnyak TM, Seravina OF, Kovalevskaya OB, Krasnov VN, Nasonov EL. [Mental disorders and cognitive impairment in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome]. TERAPEVT ARKH 2020; 92:92-103. [PMID: 32598781 DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2020.05.000625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Mental disorders (mainly anxiety and depressive disorders) and cognitive impairment are often found in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), but their prevalence, structure, and mechanisms of occurrence are not well researched. The review provides literature data on the frequency, spectrum and possible causes of mental disorders and cognitive impairment in patients with APS, the pathogenetic mechanisms of these disorders (in particular, the important role of antiphospholipid antibodies, stress factors, chronic inflammation), the relationship between APS, mental disorders and as well as cognitive impairment is examined. Special attention is paid to the influence of mental disorders and cognitive impairment on patients adherence to treatment, their quality of life, as well as the particularities of psychopharmacotherapy of mental disorders in patients with APS. The aim of the review is to actualize the interdisciplinary problem of mental disorders and cognitive impairment in patients with APS and the need to introduce a partnership model of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- A B Borisova
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - branch of Serbskiy National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Addiction
| | | | - D Y Veltishchev
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - branch of Serbskiy National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Addiction.,Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
| | - T M Reshetnyak
- Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology.,Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education
| | - O F Seravina
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - branch of Serbskiy National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Addiction
| | - O B Kovalevskaya
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - branch of Serbskiy National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Addiction
| | - V N Krasnov
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - branch of Serbskiy National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Addiction.,Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
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5
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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: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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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6
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Attilakos A, Fotis L, Dinopoulos A, Alexopoulos H, Theofilopoulou AV, Tzioufas AG, Mastroyianni S, Karalexi M, Garoufi A. Antiphospholipid and Antinuclear Antibodies in Children with Idiopathic Epilepsy: A 2-Year Prospective Study. J Clin Neurol 2020; 16:140-144. [PMID: 31942770 PMCID: PMC6974823 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2020.16.1.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The high prevalence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in patients with epilepsy may be associated with either the disease itself or the antiepileptic treatment. The purpose of this prospective study was to determine the prevalence of aPL and ANA in children with idiopathic epilepsy before and during treatment with antiepileptic drugs. METHODS aPL, including both anticardiolipin and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies, and ANA statuses were determined in 40 healthy children, 30 children treated with sodium valproate (VPA) monotherapy, and 20 children treated with carbamazepine (CBZ) monotherapy before and at 6, 12, and 24 months after treatment initiation. RESULTS Fifteen children (50%) in the VPA-treated group and 7 (35%) in the CBZ-treated group showed positivity for aPL before treatment initiation, compared with only 4 of the 40 controls. Nine children (30%) in the VPA-treated group and 4 (20%) in the CBZ-treated group showed positivity for ANA before treatment initiation, compared with only 2 of the 40 controls. The subgroup analysis found nonsignificant associations at the different time points regarding the positivity of all of the autoantibodies. Only patients treated with VPA had a significantly decreased risk of aPL positivity after 6 months of treatment. CONCLUSIONS The increased prevalence of autoantibodies in children with idiopathic epilepsy is strongly associated with the disease itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achilleas Attilakos
- Third Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Attikon" Hospital, Athens, Greece.
| | - Lambros Fotis
- Third Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Attikon" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Argirios Dinopoulos
- Third Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Attikon" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Harris Alexopoulos
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Athanasios George Tzioufas
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotiria Mastroyianni
- Second Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Karalexi
- Third Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Attikon" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Garoufi
- Second Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Hopia L, Andersson M, Svenungsson E, Khademi M, Piehl F, Tomson T. Epilepsy in systemic lupus erythematosus: prevalence and risk factors. Eur J Neurol 2019; 27:297-307. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.14077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Hopia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience Unit of Neurology Karolinska Institutet och Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset Solna, StockholmSweden
| | - M. Andersson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience Unit of Neurology Karolinska Institutet och Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset Solna, StockholmSweden
| | - E. Svenungsson
- Department of Medicine Unit of Rheumatology Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm Sweden
| | - M. Khademi
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience Unit of Neurology Karolinska Institutet och Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset Solna, StockholmSweden
| | - F. Piehl
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience Unit of Neurology Karolinska Institutet och Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset Solna, StockholmSweden
| | - T. Tomson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience Unit of Neurology Karolinska Institutet och Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset Solna, StockholmSweden
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Antiphospholipid antibodies in epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2018; 17:755-767. [PMID: 29885542 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmunity is believed to play an important causative role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. There are evidences for the presence of autoantibodies in patients with epilepsy. To date, many studies have assessed the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in epilepsy patients, though the relationship has been inconclusive. AIMS The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the presence of aPLs in epileptic patients as compared to healthy controls. METHODS Five electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Google Scholar) were searched systematically. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects model. Quality assessment was carried out by using the modified 9-star Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). L'Abbé plots were generated to visually inspect heterogeneity while publication bias was evaluated via visualization of contour- enhanced funnel plots, and Begg's and Egger's tests. RESULTS Based on the inclusion criteria, 14 studies were selected involving 1248 epilepsy patients and 800 healthy controls. The majority of epilepsy was categorised as generalised or partial and none had comorbidity with autoimmune diseases. Significant presence of both anticardiolipin (aCL) antibodies (OR: 5.16, 95% CI: 3.21-8.28, p < 0.00001) and anti-β2- glycoprotein I (anti-β2-GPI) antibodies (OR: 2.95, 95% CI: 1.07-8.11, p = 0.04) exhibited comorbid association with epilepsy patients as compared to healthy controls. Subgroup analyses revealed that presence of aCL antibodies was more specifically observed in paediatrics (OR: 4.57, 95% CI: 2.57-8.15, p < 0.00001) than adults (OR: 4.24, 95% CI: 1.80-10.01, p = 0.001). The odds of aCL antibody presence was higher in partial epilepsy patients (OR: 7.88, 95% CI: 3.23-19.24, p < 0.00001) than that of generalised (OR: 3.76, 95% CI: 2.15-6.59, p < 0.00001) and in Asian epileptic patients (OR: 9.56, 95% CI: 2.69-33.95, p = 0.0005) than Europeans (OR: 4.35, 95% CI: 2.74-6.92, p < 0.00001). The presence of anti-β2-GPI antibodies was significant in paediatric (OR: 6.44, 95% CI: 1.39-29.89, p = 0.02) and African population with epilepsies (OR: 10.59, 95% CI: 1.22-92.25, p = 0.03). NOS of the majority of the studies (11/14) indicated a high methodological quality. No substantial heterogeneity was observed either from the quantitative analysis or from the L'Abbé plots while no significant publication bias was detected from funnel plots; Begg's and Egger's tests. CONCLUSION Since none of the epilepsy subjects exhibited any comorbid autoimmune disorders, significant presence of aCL and anti-β2-GPI antibodies indicate towards their contribution in immune-mediated general pathogenesis of epilepsy.
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Ricarte IF, Dutra LA, Abrantes FF, Toso FF, Barsottini OGP, Silva GS, de Souza AWS, Andrade D. Neurologic manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome. Lupus 2018; 27:1404-1414. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203318776110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Neurological involvement in antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is common, and its occurrence increases morbidity and mortality. Patients may present variable neurological involvement, such as cerebrovascular disease, cognitive dysfunction, headache, seizures, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis-like syndrome, transverse myelitis and ocular symptoms. Most neurological manifestations are associated with thrombosis of the microcirculation or of large vessels; nonetheless, there is compelling evidence suggesting that, in some cases, symptoms are secondary to an immune-mediated pathogenesis, with direct binding of aPL on neurons and glia. Herein we describe clinical characteristics and management of neurological APS manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- I F Ricarte
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L A Dutra
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - F F Abrantes
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - F F Toso
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - O G P Barsottini
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G S Silva
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A W S de Souza
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D Andrade
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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10
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Rana A, Musto AE. The role of inflammation in the development of epilepsy. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:144. [PMID: 29764485 PMCID: PMC5952578 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1192-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 380] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy, a neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures, is often associated with a history of previous lesions in the nervous system. Impaired regulation of the activation and resolution of inflammatory cells and molecules in the injured neuronal tissue is a critical factor to the development of epilepsy. However, it is still unclear as to how that unbalanced regulation of inflammation contributes to epilepsy. Therefore, one of the goals in epilepsy research is to identify and elucidate the interconnected inflammatory pathways in systemic and neurological disorders that may further develop epilepsy progression. In this paper, inflammatory molecules, in neurological and systemic disorders (rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, Type I Diabetes, etc.) that could contribute to epilepsy development, are reviewed. Understanding the neurobiology of inflammation in epileptogenesis will contribute to the development of new biomarkers for better screening of patients at risk for epilepsy and new therapeutic targets for both prophylaxis and treatment of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Rana
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Department of Neurology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 W. Olney Road, Lewis Hall, Office 2174, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA
| | - Alberto E Musto
- Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Department of Neurology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 W. Olney Road, Lewis Hall, Office 2174, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA.
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Tecellioglu M, Kamisli O, Kamisli S, Yucel FE, Ozcan C. Neurological autoantibodies in drug-resistant epilepsy of unknown cause. Ir J Med Sci 2018. [PMID: 29524102 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-018-1777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune epilepsy is a rarely diagnosed condition. Recognition of the underlying autoimmune condition is important, as these patients can be resistant to antiepileptic drugs. AIMS To determine the autoimmune and oncological antibodies in adult drug-resistant epilepsy of unknown cause and identify the clinical, radiological, and EEG findings associated with these antibodies according to data in the literature. METHODS Eighty-two patients with drug-resistant epilepsy of unknown cause were prospectively identified. Clinical features were recorded. The levels of anti-voltage-gated potassium channel complex (anti-VGKCc), anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO), anti-nuclear antibody (ANA), anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD), anti-phospholipid IgG and IgM, anti-cardiolipin IgG and IgM, and onconeural antibodies were determined. RESULTS Serum antibody positivity suggesting the potential role of autoimmunity in the aetiology was present in 17 patients with resistant epilepsy (22.0%). Multiple antibodies were found in two patients (2.6%). One of these patients (1.3%) had anti-VGKCc and ANA, whereas another (1.3%) had anti-VGKCc and anti-TPO. A single antibody was present in 15 patients (19.5%). Of the 77 patients finally included in the study, 4 had anti-TPO (5.2%), 1 had anti-GAD (1.3%), 4 had anti-VGKCc (5.2%) 8 had ANA (10.3%), and 2 had onconeural antibodies (2.6%) (1 patient had anti-Yo and 1 had anti-MA2/TA). The other antibodies investigated were not detected. EEG abnormality (focal), focal seizure incidence, and frequent seizures were more common in antibody-positive patients. CONCLUSION Autoimmune factors may be aetiologically relevant in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy of unknown cause, especially if focal seizures are present together with focal EEG abnormality and frequent seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Tecellioglu
- Department of Neurology, Inonu University, School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey.
| | - Ozden Kamisli
- Department of Neurology, Inonu University, School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Suat Kamisli
- Department of Neurology, Inonu University, School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ebru Yucel
- Department of Neurology, Malatya State Hospital, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Cemal Ozcan
- Department of Neurology, Inonu University, School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
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Rosati A, Guerrini R, Cimaz R. Lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome and epilepsy: an update. Lupus 2016; 26:3-5. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203316666961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Rosati
- Paediatric Neurology Unit, Meyer Children’s Hospital, University of Florence, Italy
| | - R Guerrini
- Paediatric Neurology Unit, Meyer Children’s Hospital, University of Florence, Italy
| | - R Cimaz
- Rheumatology Unit, Meyer Children’s Hospital, University of Florence, Italy
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13
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Ceyhan Dirican A, Elibirlik S, Köksal A, Öztürk M, Altunkaynak Y, Baybaş S, Dirican A. Evaluation of Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase Antibody Levels in Patients with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy and Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy with Hippocampal Sclerosis. Noro Psikiyatr Ars 2016; 53:253-256. [PMID: 28373803 DOI: 10.5152/npa.2015.9948] [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] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the role of autoantibodies and immunological mechanisms in the etiology of treatment-resistant epilepsy in recent years. Some immunological treatments have been suggested as a result of these studies. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of autoimmunity in partial and idiopathic generalized epilepsy and determine the relationship between drug resistance and autoimmune antibodies. METHODS Twenty-eight patients (24 treatment-responsive and 4 treatment-resistant) with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), 26 patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLEHS) resistant to antiepileptic drug treatment, and 26 age-matched healthy control subjects were included in a two-year cross sectional study. Glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GADA) levels were measured with a radioimmunoassay method in the serum of the included subjects. RESULTS High GADA titers were detected in 2 patients with JME (7.1%), 1 patient with MTLEHS (3.8%), and 1 healthy subject (3.8%). There was no statistically significant difference among the groups regarding the serum GADA level. Although a limited number of drug-resistant patients with JME our study did not show relationships among anti-GADAs, both epileptic syndromes and drug resistance. CONCLUSION Because we did not determine any significant relationship between GADA levels and JME or MTLEHS, we do not recommend analysis of serum GADA levels in routine examinations where there is no evidence to suggest risk factors for autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayten Ceyhan Dirican
- Clinic of Neurology, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevilay Elibirlik
- Clinic of Neurology, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Köksal
- Clinic of Neurology, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Musa Öztürk
- Clinic of Neurology, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Altunkaynak
- Clinic of Neurology, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevim Baybaş
- Clinic of Neurology, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Dirican
- Clinic of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Bakırköy Psychiatric Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
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14
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Noureldine MHA, Harifi G, Berjawi A, Haydar AA, Nader M, Elnawar R, Sweid A, Al Saleh J, Khamashta MA, Uthman I. Hughes syndrome and epilepsy: when to test for antiphospholipid antibodies? Lupus 2016; 25:1397-1411. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203316651747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy and seizures are reported among the neurological manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) at a prevalence rate of approximately 8%, which is nearly 10 times the prevalence of epilepsy in the general population. The association of seizures with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) is even more significant in the presence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this review, we discuss the epidemiological, pathophysiological, laboratory, clinical, and radiological aspects of this association, and derive suggestions on when to consider testing for aPL in epileptic patients and how to manage seizures secondary to APS based on literature data. Epilepsy due to APS should be considered in young patients presenting with seizures of unknown origin. Temporal lobe epilepsy seems to be particularly prevalent in APS patients. The pathogenesis is complex and may not only involve micro-thrombosis, but also a possible immune-mediated neuronal damage. Patients with seizures and positive aPL tend to develop thrombocytopenia and livedo racemosa more frequently compared with those without aPL. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains the imaging modality of choice in these patients. The presence of SLE and the presence of neurological symptoms significantly correlate with the presence of white matter changes on MRI. In contrast, the correlation between aPL positivity and the presence of white matter changes is very weak. Furthermore, MRI can be normal in more than 30–40% of neuropsychiatric lupus patients with or without aPL. aPL testing is recommended in young patients presenting with atypical seizures and multiple hyper-intensity lesions on brain MRI in the absence of other possible conditions. New MRI techniques can better understand the pathology of brain damage in neuro-APS. The therapeutic management of epileptic APS patients relies on anti-epileptic treatment and anticoagulant agents when there is evidence of a thrombotic event. In the absence of consensual recommendations, the decision of lifelong anticoagulation is discussed on a case-by-case basis. The anti-thrombotic benefit of hydroxychloroquine and statins is supported by several studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H A Noureldine
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - G Harifi
- Department of Rheumatology, Dubai Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - A Berjawi
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - A A Haydar
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - M Nader
- Department of Neurology, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - R Elnawar
- Département de Neurologie, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - A Sweid
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - J Al Saleh
- Department of Rheumatology, Dubai Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - M A Khamashta
- Department of Rheumatology, Dubai Hospital, Dubai, UAE
- Division of Women’s Health, St Thomas’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - I Uthman
- Division of Rheumatology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Tsai MH, Fu TY, Chen NC, Shih FY, Lu YT, Cheng MY, Chuang HY, Chuang YC. Antithyroid Antibodies Are Implicated in Epileptogenesis of Adult Patients With Epilepsy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015; 94:e1059. [PMID: 26131823 PMCID: PMC4504585 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000001059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Antithyroid antibodies (Abs) are associated with epilepsy in steroid-responsive encephalopathy, but have been rarely studied in unselected epilepsy patients. This study aimed to characterize the prevalence and associated factors of antithyroid Abs and other auto-Abs in adult patients with epilepsy.Epilepsy patients without autoimmune disorders were surveyed for antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-β2 glycoprotein 1 antibody (aβ2GP1), anticardiolipin IgG Ab, antimicrosomal antibody (AMA), antithyroglobulin antibody (ATA), and thyroid function test.Of 319 patients, 75 (23.5%) were positive for at least 1 Ab. The most common Ab was anticardiolipin antibody (aCL) (30/319, 9.4%), followed by AMA (24/319, 7.5%), ANA (18/319, 5.6%), aβ2GP1 (18/319, 6.5%), and ATA (6/319, 3.25%). Antimicrosomal Abs were significantly more frequent in patients who were female, older at disease onset, older at the time of study, and had unknown seizure etiology. The presence of aCL was significantly associated with more frequent seizures. Most patients with antithyroid Ab were female and had focal seizures with unknown etiology.The association of different auto-Abs with different factors suggests that they may have different roles in adult patients with epilepsy. Recurrent seizures and certain antiepileptic medications may cause the production of aCL. The role of antithyroid Abs in adult focal epilepsy with unknown cause, especially in females, warrants further evaluation because of the potential implications on treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Han Tsai
- From the Department of Neurology (M-HT, N-CC, Y-TL, Y-CC), Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (T-YF), Kaohsiung Veteran General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Shu-Zen Junior College of Medicine and Management (T-YF), Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Neurosurgery (F-YS), Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Neurology (M-YC), Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Public Health (H-YC), Kaohsiung Medical University; Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences (Y-CC), Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Biological Science (Y-CC), National Sun Yet-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Faculty of Medicine (Y-CC), Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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16
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Lack of antibodies to NMDAR or VGKC-complex in GAD and cardiolipin antibody-positive refractory epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2014; 108:592-6. [PMID: 24447612 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2013.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the last few years autoantibodies against neuronal proteins have been identified in several forms of autoimmune encephalitis and epilepsy. NMDA receptor (NMDAR) and voltage gated potassium channel (VGKC) complex antibodies are mainly associated with limbic encephalitis (LE) whereas glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GADA) and anticardiolipin (ACL) antibodies are more commonly detected in patients with chronic epilepsy. Clinical features vary between these antibodies suggesting the specificity of different neuronal antibodies in seizures. METHODS Serum samples of 14 GADA positive and 24 ACL positive patients with refractory epilepsy were analyzed for the presence of VGKC or NMDAR antibodies. RESULTS No positive VGKC or NMDAR antibodies were found in these patients. CONCLUSIONS The results confirm the different significance of these neuronal antibodies in seizure disorders. Different autoantibodies have different significance in seizures and probably have different pathophysiological mechanisms of actions.
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Liimatainen S, Lehtimäki K, Kai L, Palmio J, Johanna P, Alapirtti T, Tiina A, Peltola J, Jukka P. Immunological perspectives of temporal lobe seizures. J Neuroimmunol 2013; 263:1-7. [PMID: 23998423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Revised: 07/21/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The temporal lobes are affected in many different neurological disorders, such as neurodegenerative diseases, viral and immunological encephalitides, and epilepsy. Both experimental and clinical evidence suggests a different inflammatory response to seizures in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) in comparison to those with extra-TLE (XTLE). Proinflammatory cytokines and several autoantibodies have been shown to be associated with TLE compared to other epilepsy types suggesting the specific role and structure of the temporal lobe. Abundant experience suggests that activation of both innate and adaptive immunity is associated with epilepsy, particularly refractory focal epilepsy. Limbic encephalitis often triggers temporal lobe seizures, and a proportion of these disorders are immune-mediated. Histological evidence shows activation of specific inflammatory pathways in resected temporal lobes of epileptic patients, and certain epileptic disorders have shown increased incidence in patients with autoimmune diseases. Rapid activation of proinflammatory cytokines is observed after single seizures, but there is also evidence of chronic overproduction of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators in patients with TLE, suggesting a neuromodulatory role of inflammation in epilepsy. In this review we summarize current data on the presence and the role of immunological factors in temporal lobe seizures, and their possible involvement in epileptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvi Liimatainen
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521, Tampere, Finland; Emergency Department Acuta, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521, Tampere, Finland.
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18
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Abstract
Systemic autoimmune disorders affect multiple organ systems. Brain involvement commonly causes seizures, which may be the presenting symptom. Systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjorgren's syndrome, Wegener's granulomatosis, sarcoidsosis, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, Behcet's, and Hashimoto's encephalopathy are reviewed. Mechanisms underlying CNS pathology in systemic autoimmune disorders-and specifically factors predisposing these patients-are discussed, including vascular disease (e.g., prothrombotic state, anticardiolipin antibody, emboli, vasculitis), antineuronal antibodies, immune complexes, cytokines, metabolic disorders, infection, and therapy. Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies must be individualized for both the disorder and the patient. Systemic autoimmune disorders affect multiple organ systems and frequently involve the central and peripheral nervous systems. Seizures are among the most common neurological manifestation and occasionally can be the presenting symptom. There are many causes of seizures in systemic autoimmune disorders (Table 1), and the first clinical challenge is to determine not only the cause but also the significance of seizures. In some cases, they are clues to metabolic or infectious disorders or medication toxicity; in other cases, seizures herald a life-threatening progression of the underlying illness.
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High concentration of immunoglobulin A is associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2012; 103:54-61. [PMID: 22749917 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2012] [Revised: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dysfunction of immunoglobulins (Igs) has been detected in association with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and in newly diagnosed epilepsy patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of clinical features and the current or past use of AEDs on serum Ig concentrations in a well-examined group of patients with refractory epilepsy. PATIENTS AND METHODS Using a nephelometric method, concentrations of IgA, IgG and IgM were analyzed in the sera of 257 patients with refractory epilepsy, 15 patients with controlled epilepsy and 584 healthy control subjects. RESULTS A low IgA concentration was found in 8.8% of the patients with epilepsy compared with 1.9% of the control subjects. High concentrations of IgA were associated with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) compared with other epilepsy types (p=0.042). The high concentrations of IgA (p=0.042), low concentrations of IgG (p=0.002), and high concentrations of IgG (p=0.008) were also associated with autoimmune diseases. The use of lamotrigine, nitrazepam, oxcarbazepine, topiramate and valproic acid was associated with alterations in Ig concentrations. Current use of topiramate was associated with high serum IgG and IgM concentrations (OR 10.39; 95% CI: 3.08-35.04 and OR 7.02; 95% CI: 1.25-39.55, respectively). DISCUSSION The finding of high serum IgA concentration in patients with TLE strengthens the previously found association of immunological activity in the epileptic temporal lobe rather than other brain regions. The newly observed immunological effects of topiramate are important to proper AED choice in patients with refractory epilepsy.
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Lehtimäki K, Peltola J, Liimatainen S, Haapala AM, Arvio M. Cardiolipin and β2-Glycoprotein I antibodies associate with cognitive impairment and seizure frequency in developmental disorders. Seizure 2011; 20:438-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2011.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Revised: 01/22/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Liimatainen S, Lehtimäki K, Raitala A, Peltola M, Oja SS, Peltola J, Hurme MA. Increased indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity in idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2011; 94:206-12. [PMID: 21377330 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2011.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2010] [Revised: 01/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is a cytokine-inducible enzyme that participates in tryptophan (trp) and serotonin metabolism with an ability to modulate neuroinflammation. Several recent studies have shown associations between cytokines and epilepsy. In this study we investigated whether activation of IDO is associated with epilepsy. METHODS Kynurenine (kyn)/trp serum ratio, as an indicator of IDO activity was analyzed in 271 carefully classified epilepsy patients, and 309 healthy adults. RESULTS IDO activity was increased in patients with unclassified idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) (n=11; p=0.05), in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) (n=25; p=0.04) and in patients those with temporal lobe epilepsy but no hippocampal sclerosis (TLE-HS) (n=103; p=0.05) compared to the control subjects. In patients with idiopathic (but not cryptogenic or symptomatic) etiology of epilepsy, IDO activity was increased compared to the control subjects (p<0.05). Patients with extra-TLE or TLE+HS had IDO activity comparable to the control subjects. Patients who were one-month seizure-free prior to sampling had increased IDO activity compared to the control subjects (p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Increased IDO activity appeared to be associated with idiopathic generalized epilepsies such as unclassified IGE and JME, two of the most common types of primary generalized epilepsy. We also found a trend of increased IDO activity in patients with TLE-HS. Our results suggest that increased IDO activity may represent an adaptive metabolic phenomenon in epilepsy, which may also have a neuroprotective or anticonvulsive role by downregulating neuroinflammation in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvi Liimatainen
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland; Emergency Department Acuta, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland
| | - Kai Lehtimäki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland
| | - Annika Raitala
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Tampere, Medical School, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Maria Peltola
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland
| | - Simo S Oja
- Department of Paediatrics, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland
| | - Mikko A Hurme
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Tampere, Medical School, 33014 Tampere, Finland; The Laboratory Centre, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, 33521 Tampere, Finland
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Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease with recurrent thromboses and pregnancy complications (90% are female patients) that can be primary and secondary (with concomitant autoimmune disease). Antiphospholipid antibodies are prothrombotic but also act directly with brain tissue. One clinical and one laboratory criterion is necessary for the diagnosis of APS. Positive serological tests have to be confirmed after at least 12 weeks. Clinical picture consists of thromboses in many organs and spontaneous miscarriages, sometimes thrombocytopaenia and haemolytic anaemia, but neurological cases are the most frequent: headaches, stroke, encephalopathy, seizures, visual disturbances, Sneddon syndrome, dementia, vertigo, chorea, balism, transitory global amnesia, psychosis, transversal myelopathy and Guillain-Barre syndrome. About 50% of strokes below 50 years of age are caused by APS. The first line of therapy in stroke is anticoagulation: intravenous heparin or low-weight heparins. In chronic treatment, oral anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy are used, warfarin and aspirin, mostly for life. In resistant cases, corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins and plasmapheresis are necessary. Prognosis is good in most patients but some are treatment-resistant with recurrent thrombotic events and eventually death.
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23
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Neurology in the European Journal of Neurology. Eur J Neurol 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2010.03248.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Liimatainen S, Peltola M, Sabater L, Fallah M, Kharazmi E, Haapala AM, Dastidar P, Knip M, Saiz A, Peltola J. Clinical significance of glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies in patients with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2009; 51:760-7. [PMID: 19817821 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2009.02325.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GADAs) have been detected in patients with epilepsy, but the clinical determinants of epilepsy associated with GADA have not been defined. METHODS We analyzed GADA with a radioimmunoassay in sera of 253 well-characterized patients with epilepsy and 200 control subjects. The positive samples were confirmed by immunohistochemistry and western blotting (WB). Sera were screened for other autoantibodies. RESULTS GADA were detected in 15 patients (5.9%) and in three control subjects (1.5%) (p = 0.026). Seven patients (2.8%) had high GADA titers [>or=1,000 relative units (RUs)/ml], six of whom had temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). All three GADA-positive control subjects had low titers. Two of the five patients with high GADA titers and available cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples had intrathecal synthesis (IS) of GADA; one patient had CSF oligoclonal bands. The prevalence of increased levels of GADA tended to be higher in patients with TLE than in patients with extra-TLE [odds ratio (OR) 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39-4.42; p = 0.657]. The patients with high GADA titers had significantly higher number of other autoantibodies compared to the patients with low GADA titers (p = 0.001) and the patients with normal GADA (p < 0.001). DISCUSSION High GADA titers were present in a subgroup of patients; close to 90% had TLE. The immunologic profile of these patients suggests that the most probable origin of their epilepsy is autoimmune. A positive IS of GADA may be a marker of an ongoing immune response that could identify those patients in whom a trial with immunosuppressive therapy might be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvi Liimatainen
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.
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Anticardiolipin antibodies are associated with epileptic seizure frequency. Nat Rev Neurol 2009. [DOI: 10.1038/ncpneuro1036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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