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Tseng MH, Lin SH, Tsai JD, Wu MS, Tsai IJ, Chen YC, Chang MC, Chou WC, Chiou YH, Huang CC. Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome: Consensus of diagnosis and treatment in Taiwan. J Formos Med Assoc 2023; 122:366-375. [PMID: 36323601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury, is a rare but life-threatening systemic disorder caused by the dysregulation of the complement pathway. Current advances in molecular analysis and pathogenesis have facilitated the establishment of diagnosis and development of effective complement blockade. Based on this recent consensus, we provide suggestions regarding the diagnosis and management of aHUS in Taiwan. The diagnosis of aHUS is made by the presence of TMA with normal ADAMTS13 activity without known secondary causes. Although only 60% of patients with aHUS have mutations in genes involving the compliment and coagulation systems, molecular analysis is suggestive for helping establish diagnosis, clarifying the underlying pathophysiology, guiding the treatment decision-making, predicting the prognosis, and deciding renal transplantation. Complement blockade, anti-C5 monoclonal antibody, is the first-line therapy for patients with aHUS. Plasma therapy should be considered for removing autoantibody in patients with atypical HUS caused by anti-CFH or complement inhibitor is unavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Hua Tseng
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hua Lin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Daw Tsai
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Children's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mai-Szu Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - I-Jung Tsai
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Children Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yeu-Chin Chen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Min-Chih Chang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, MacKay Children's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chien Chou
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yee-Hsuan Chiou
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Chiu-Ching Huang
- Division of Nephrology and the Kidney Institute, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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2
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Galvez C, Krall P, Rojas A, Oh J, Cano F. HUS with mutations in CFH and STEC infection treated with eculizumab in a 4-year-old girl. Pediatr Nephrol 2023; 38:1195-1203. [PMID: 35969277 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-022-05694-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemolytic uremic syndrome secondary to Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection (STEC-HUS) generally shows a favorable outcome. Few cases develop extra-renal complications, since neurological involvement is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. The role of complement in STEC-HUS has been recently highlighted, and the use of eculizumab in severe cases has been communicated. HUS results from environmental and genetic factors, but the simultaneous occurrence of STEC and complement mutations remains undetermined. METHODS A pediatric case with severe STEC-HUS carrying CFH mutations, with favorable response to eculizumab is analyzed. RESULTS STEC-HUS was diagnosed in a 4-year-old girl with classic HUS, including low C3. Peritoneal dialysis was started due to hypertension, oligoanuria, and pleural effusion. She evolved with generalized tonic-clonic seizures and required mechanical ventilation. MRI reported multiple supra- and infratentorial ischemic lesions with laminar/striatal cortical necrosis and leukoencephalopathy. After two eculizumab doses, a significative stabilization in diuresis, blood pressure, creatinine, and C3 was achieved. At the third week, episodes of massive digestive bleeding and a life-threatening condition required a colectomy thus preserving the ileocecal valve. Due to atypical evolution, a genetic study was considered, identifying two heterozygous variants (CFH S1191L/V1197A). CONCLUSION STEC-HUS in patients with a genetic predisposition has been previously reported, but the low frequency of occurrence makes it a rare disease. As in the present case, patients with atypical course might benefit from genetic analysis to evaluate early eculizumab initiation and to better understand its phenotype. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Galvez
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Paola Krall
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Institute of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Alejandro Rojas
- Institute of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Jun Oh
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Hepatology and Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Francisco Cano
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
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3
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Abstract
Dysregulation and accelerated activation of the alternative pathway (AP) of complement is known to cause or accentuate several pathologic conditions in which kidney injury leads to the appearance of hematuria and proteinuria and ultimately to the development of chronic renal failure. Multiple genetic and acquired defects involving plasma- and membrane-associated proteins are probably necessary to impair the protection of host tissues and to confer a significant predisposition to AP-mediated kidney diseases. This review aims to explore how our current understanding will make it possible to identify the mechanisms that underlie AP-mediated kidney diseases and to discuss the available clinical evidence that supports complement-directed therapies. Although the value of limiting uncontrolled complement activation has long been recognized, incorporating complement-targeted treatments into clinical use has proved challenging. Availability of anti-complement therapy has dramatically transformed the outcome of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, one of the most severe kidney diseases. Innovative drugs that directly counteract AP dysregulation have also opened new perspectives for the management of other kidney diseases in which complement activation is involved. However, gained experience indicates that the choice of drug should be tailored to each patient's characteristics, including clinical, histologic, genetic, and biochemical parameters. Successfully treating patients requires further research in the field and close collaboration between clinicians and researchers who have special expertise in the complement system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Daina
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Monica Cortinovis
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
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Wu Q, Tian X, Gong N, Zheng J, Liang D, Li X, Lu X, Xue W, Tian P, Wen J. Early graft loss due to acute thrombotic microangiopathy accompanied by complement gene variants in living-related kidney transplantation: case series report. BMC Nephrol 2022; 23:249. [PMID: 35836191 PMCID: PMC9284761 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-022-02868-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, early graft loss has become very rare in living-related kidney transplantation (LKT) as a result of decreased risk of hyperacute rejection and improvements in immunosuppressive regimens. Post-transplant acute thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a rare, multi-factorial disease that often occurs shortly after kidney transplantation and is usually resistant to treatment with dismal renal outcomes. The complement genetic variants may accelerate the development of TMA. However, the complement genetic test was seldom performed in unknown native kidney disease recipients scheduled for LKT. Case presentation We reported three cases of unknown native kidney diseases who had fulminant TMA in the allograft shortly after LKT. Both the donors and the recipients were noted to carry complement genetic variants, which were identified by genetic testing after transplantation. However, all recipients were refractory to treatment and had allograft loss within 3 months after LKT. Conclusion This case series highlights the suggestion to screen complement gene variants in both the donors and the recipients with unknown native kidney diseases scheduled for LKT. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12882-022-02868-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Wu
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaohui Tian
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Nephropathy Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China
| | - Nianqiao Gong
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Nephropathy Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China
| | - Dandan Liang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue Li
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xia Lu
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wujun Xue
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Nephropathy Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China
| | - Puxun Tian
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Nephropathy Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China.
| | - Jiqiu Wen
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Park J, Yhim HY, Kang KP, Bae TW, Cho YG. Copy number variation analysis using next-generation sequencing identifies the CFHR3/ CFHR1 deletion in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome: a case report. Hematology 2022; 27:603-608. [PMID: 35617302 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2022.2075121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is characterized by a triad of thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and acute renal failure resulting from platelet thrombi in the microcirculation of the kidney and other organs, in the absence of a preceding diarrheal illness. This report describes a case in which copy number variation (CNV) analysis using next-generation sequencing (NGS) identified the CFHR3/CFHR1 deletion in a patient with aHUS. METHODS A 49-year-old Korean female was diagnosed with aHUS based on clinical findings, including schistocytes in peripheral blood and marked thrombocytopenia, suggesting the presence of thrombotic microangiopathy, elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase, and acute kidney injury. Sequence variants and CNV generated from NGS data were estimated to determine if there was a potential genetic cause. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was conducted to confirm the CFHR3/CFHR1 deletion identified by NGS with CNV analysis. RESULTS No known or novel pathogenic single nucleotide variant or small insertion/deletion that would be predicted to have damaging effects that could lead to aHUS were identified. However, CNV analysis of NGS data identified the heterozygous CFHR3/CFHR1 deletion. MLPA confirmed this loss of one copy number between the CFHR3 and the CFHR1 genes on chromosome 1q31.3. CONCLUSION We genetically diagnosed a Korean woman harboring a heterozygous CFHR3/CFHR1 deletion of a known causative gene for aHUS. Our report emphasizes the need for CNV analysis of NGS data and gene dosage assays, such as MLPA, to evaluate large-scale deletions or duplications and generate hybrid CFH genes in patients with suspected aHUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonhong Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School and Hospital, Jeonju, Korea.,Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Ho-Young Yhim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School and Hospital, Jeonju, Korea.,Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Kyung Pyo Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School and Hospital, Jeonju, Korea.,Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Tae Won Bae
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School and Hospital, Jeonju, Korea.,Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Yong Gon Cho
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School and Hospital, Jeonju, Korea.,Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
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Raina R, Vijayvargiya N, Khooblall A, Melachuri M, Deshpande S, Sharma D, Mathur K, Arora M, Sethi SK, Sandhu S. Pediatric Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Advances. Cells 2021; 10:3580. [PMID: 34944087 PMCID: PMC8700093 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disorder characterized by dysregulation of the alternate pathway. The diagnosis of aHUS is one of exclusion, which complicates its early detection and corresponding intervention to mitigate its high rate of mortality and associated morbidity. Heterozygous mutations in complement regulatory proteins linked to aHUS are not always phenotypically active, and may require a particular trigger for the disease to manifest. This list of triggers continues to expand as more data is aggregated, particularly centered around COVID-19 and pediatric vaccinations. Novel genetic mutations continue to be identified though advancements in technology as well as greater access to cohorts of interest, as in diacylglycerol kinase epsilon (DGKE). DGKE mutations associated with aHUS are the first non-complement regulatory proteins associated with the disease, drastically changing the established framework. Additional markers that are less understood, but continue to be acknowledged, include the unique autoantibodies to complement factor H and complement factor I which are pathogenic drivers in aHUS. Interventional therapeutics have undergone the most advancements, as pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties are modified as needed in addition to their as biosimilar counterparts. As data continues to be gathered in this field, future advancements will optimally decrease the mortality and morbidity of this disease in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupesh Raina
- Akron Nephrology Associates/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA; (N.V.); (A.K.); (S.D.); (K.M.); (M.A.)
- Department of Nephrology, Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron, OH 44308, USA
| | - Nina Vijayvargiya
- Akron Nephrology Associates/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA; (N.V.); (A.K.); (S.D.); (K.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Amrit Khooblall
- Akron Nephrology Associates/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA; (N.V.); (A.K.); (S.D.); (K.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Manasa Melachuri
- Department of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA; (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - Shweta Deshpande
- Akron Nephrology Associates/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA; (N.V.); (A.K.); (S.D.); (K.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Divya Sharma
- Department of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA; (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - Kashin Mathur
- Akron Nephrology Associates/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA; (N.V.); (A.K.); (S.D.); (K.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Manav Arora
- Akron Nephrology Associates/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA; (N.V.); (A.K.); (S.D.); (K.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Sidharth Kumar Sethi
- Pediatric Nephrology & Pediatric Kidney Transplantation, Kidney and Urology Institute, Medanta, The Medicity Hospital, Gurgaon 122007, India;
| | - Sonia Sandhu
- Hematology and Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH 44307, USA;
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Yang LP, Liu X, Zhang XH. [Advances in the diagnosis and management of transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy]. ZHONGHUA XUE YE XUE ZA ZHI = ZHONGHUA XUEYEXUE ZAZHI 2021; 42:693-699. [PMID: 34547882 PMCID: PMC8501284 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2727.2021.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L P Yang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing 100044, China
| | - X Liu
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing 100044, China
| | - X H Zhang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing 100044, China
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Alobaidi S, AlDabbagh A, Alamoudi A, Almowarey M, Akl A. Pregnancy-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome. SAUDI JOURNAL OF KIDNEY DISEASES AND TRANSPLANTATION 2021; 31:1180-1188. [PMID: 33565429 DOI: 10.4103/1319-2442.308326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (P-aHUS) is not an uncommon condition. It is considered a medical emergency that is associated with a high risk of mortality and serious morbidity. End-stage renal disease as a consequence of P-aHUS occurs in >50% of the patients if left untreated; the majority of identified cases (79%) are during the postpartum period. Its mechanism of action is related mainly to the disturbance in the activation of the complement alternative pathway, leading to damage of the microvascular endothelium. The clinical picture of P-aHUS mimics several conditions occurring during post-partum thrombotic microangiopathy, for example, severe pre-eclampsia, hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count, thrombotic-thrombocytopenic purpura, and acute fatty liver of pregnancy. Genetic analysis of known genetic mutations together with the analysis of anti-CFH antibodies might confirm the diagnosis of aHUS in the post-partum period. The absence of causative genetic mutations does not always exclude a diagnosis of aHUS, since 40% of patients show no known genetic abnormalities. The mainstay of management is supportive care and immediate initiation of plasmapheresis. Eculizumab has been proved to be both safe and effective in inducing and maintaining remission in P-aHUS and it is recommended to be started as soon as the diagnosis is established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Alobaidi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ammar AlDabbagh
- Department of Medicine, Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amany Alamoudi
- Department of Medicine, Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Murad Almowarey
- Department of Hematology, King Fahad Hospital, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Akl
- Department of Medicine, Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Nephrology, Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura, Egypt; Fakeeh College of Medical Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Atypical hemolytic and uremic syndrome due to C3 mutation in pancreatic islet transplantation: a case report. BMC Nephrol 2020; 21:405. [PMID: 32950058 PMCID: PMC7501718 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-020-02062-7] [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: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We here report on the first observation of a C3 mutation that is related to atypical hemolytic and uremic syndrome (aHUS), which occurred in a pancreatic islet transplant patient. Immunosuppressive treatments, such as calcineurin inhibitors, have been linked to undesirable effects like nephrotoxicity. Case presentation A 40-year-old man with brittle diabetes, who was included in the TRIMECO trial, became insulin-independent 2 months after pancreatic islet transplantation. About 15 months after islet transplantation, the patient exhibited acute kidney injury due to aHUS. Despite plasma exchange and eculizumab treatment, the patient developed end-stage renal disease. A genetic workup identified a missense variant (p.R592Q) in the C3 gene. In vitro, this C3 variant had defective Factor I proteolytic activity with membrane proteins as cofactor proteins, which was thus classified as pathogenic. About 1 year after the aHUS episode, kidney transplantation was carried out under the protection of the specific anti-C5 monoclonal antibody eculizumab. The patient had normal kidney function, with preserved pancreatic islet function 4 years later. Conclusions Pancreatic islet transplantation could have triggered this aHUS episode, but this link needs to be clarified. Although prophylactic eculizumab maintains kidney allograft function, its efficacy still needs to be studied in larger populations.
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Wijnsma KL, Duineveld C, Wetzels JFM, van de Kar NCAJ. Eculizumab in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome: strategies toward restrictive use. Pediatr Nephrol 2019; 34:2261-2277. [PMID: 30402748 PMCID: PMC6794245 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-018-4091-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
With the introduction of the complement C5-inhibitor eculizumab, a new era was entered for patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). Eculizumab therapy very effectively reversed thrombotic microangiopathy and reduced mortality and morbidity. Initial guidelines suggested lifelong treatment and recommended prophylactic use of eculizumab in aHUS patients receiving a kidney transplant. However, there is little evidence to support lifelong therapy or prophylactic treatment in kidney transplant recipients. Worldwide, there is an ongoing debate regarding the optimal dose and duration of treatment, particularly in view of the high costs and potential side effects of eculizumab. An increasing but still limited number of case reports and small cohort studies suggest that a restrictive treatment regimen is feasible. We review the current literature and focus on the safety and efficacy of restrictive use of eculizumab. Our current treatment protocol is based on restrictive use of eculizumab. Prospective monitoring will provide more definite proof of the feasibility of such restrictive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kioa L. Wijnsma
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Duineveld
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jack F. M. Wetzels
- Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole C. A. J. van de Kar
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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11
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Abbas F, El Kossi M, Kim JJ, Shaheen IS, Sharma A, Halawa A. Complement-mediated renal diseases after kidney transplantation - current diagnostic and therapeutic options in de novo and recurrent diseases. World J Transplant 2018; 8:203-219. [PMID: 30370231 PMCID: PMC6201327 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v8.i6.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, kidney diseases related to inappropriate complement activity, such as atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and C3 glomerulopathy (a subtype of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis), have mostly been complicated by worsened prognoses and rapid progression to end-stage renal failure. Alternative complement pathway dysregulation, whether congenital or acquired, is well-recognized as the main driver of the disease process in these patients. The list of triggers include: surgery, infection, immunologic factors, pregnancy and medications. The advent of complement activation blockade, however, revolutionized the clinical course and outcome of these diseases, rendering transplantation a viable option for patients who were previously considered as non-transplantable cases. Several less-costly therapeutic lines and likely better efficacy and safety profiles are currently underway. In view of the challenging nature of diagnosing these diseases and the long-term cost implications, a multidisciplinary approach including the nephrologist, renal pathologist and the genetic laboratory is required to help improve overall care of these patients and draw the optimum therapeutic plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedaey Abbas
- Nephrology Department, Jaber El Ahmed Military Hospital, Safat 13005, Kuwait
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
| | - Mohsen El Kossi
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Doncaster DN2 5LT, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Jin Kim
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Nottingham Children Hospital, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
| | - Ihab Sakr Shaheen
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Royal Liverpool University Hospitals, Liverpool L7 8XP, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed Halawa
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield S57AU, United Kingdom
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12
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Abbas F, El Kossi M, Kim JJ, Sharma A, Halawa A. Thrombotic microangiopathy after renal transplantation: Current insights in de novo and recurrent disease. World J Transplant 2018; 8:122-141. [PMID: 30211021 PMCID: PMC6134269 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v8.i5.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is one of the most devastating sequalae of kidney transplantation. A number of published articles have covered either de novo or recurrent TMA in an isolated manner. We have, hereby, in this article endeavored to address both types of TMA in a comparative mode. We appreciate that de novo TMA is more common and its prognosis is poorer than recurrent TMA; the latter has a genetic background, with mutations that impact disease behavior and, consequently, allograft and patient survival. Post-transplant TMA can occur as a recurrence of the disease involving the native kidney or as de novo disease with no evidence of previous involvement before transplant. While atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome is a rare disease that results from complement dysregulation with alternative pathway overactivity, de novo TMA is a heterogenous set of various etiologies and constitutes the vast majority of post-transplant TMA cases. Management of both diseases varies from simple maneuvers, e.g., plasmapheresis, drug withdrawal or dose modification, to lifelong complement blockade, which is rather costly. Careful donor selection and proper recipient preparation, including complete genetic screening, would be a pragmatic approach. Novel therapies, e.g., purified products of the deficient genes, though promising in theory, are not yet of proven value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedaey Abbas
- Nephrology Department, Jaber El Ahmed Military Hospital, Safat 13005, Kuwait
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
| | - Mohsen El Kossi
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Doncaster Renal Unit, Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Doncaster DN2 5LT, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Jin Kim
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Nottingham Children Hospital, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Transplant Surgery, Royal Liverpool University Hospitals, Liverpool UK L7 8XP, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed Halawa
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield S57AU, United Kingdom
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Winthrop KL, Mariette X, Silva JT, Benamu E, Calabrese LH, Dumusc A, Smolen JS, Aguado JM, Fernández-Ruiz M. ESCMID Study Group for Infections in Compromised Hosts (ESGICH) Consensus Document on the safety of targeted and biological therapies: an infectious diseases perspective (Soluble immune effector molecules [II]: agents targeting interleukins, immunoglobulins and complement factors). Clin Microbiol Infect 2018; 24 Suppl 2:S21-S40. [PMID: 29447987 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present review is part of the ESCMID Study Group for Infections in Compromised Hosts (ESGICH) Consensus Document on the safety of targeted and biological therapies. AIMS To review, from an Infectious Diseases perspective, the safety profile of agents targeting interleukins, immunoglobulins and complement factors and to suggest preventive recommendations. SOURCES Computer-based MEDLINE searches with MeSH terms pertaining to each agent or therapeutic family. CONTENT Patients receiving interleukin-1 (IL-1) -targeted (anakinra, canakinumab or rilonacept) or IL-5-targeted (mepolizumab) agents have a moderate risk of infection and no specific prevention strategies are recommended. The use of IL-6/IL-6 receptor-targeted agents (tocilizumab and siltuximab) is associated with a risk increase similar to that observed with anti-tumour necrosis factor-α agents. IL-12/23-targeted agents (ustekinumab) do not seem to pose a meaningful risk of infection, although screening for latent tuberculosis infection may be considered and antiviral prophylaxis should be given to hepatitis B surface antigen-positive patients. Therapy with IL-17-targeted agents (secukinumab, brodalumab and ixekizumab) may result in the development of mild-to-moderate mucocutaneous candidiasis. Pre-treatment screening for Strongyloides stercoralis and other geohelminths should be considered in patients who come from areas where these are endemic who are receiving IgE-targeted agents (omalizumab). C5-targeted agents (eculizumab) are associated with a markedly increased risk of infection due to encapsulated bacteria, particularly Neisseria spp. Meningococcal vaccination and chemoprophylaxis must be administered 2-4 weeks before initiating eculizumab. Patients with high-risk behaviours and their partners should also be screened for gonococcal infection. IMPLICATIONS Preventive strategies are particularly encouraged to minimize the occurrence of neisserial infection associated with eculizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Winthrop
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - X Mariette
- Department of Rheumatology, Hôpitaux Universitaire Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Sud, INSERM U1184, Paris, France
| | - J T Silva
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Badajoz, Fundación para La Formación e Investigación de Los Profesionales de La Salud (FundeSalud), Badajoz, Spain
| | - E Benamu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - L H Calabrese
- Department of Rheumatic and Immunological Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - A Dumusc
- Department of Rheumatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - J S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J M Aguado
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (i+12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Infectious Diseases (REIPI RD16/0016), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Fernández-Ruiz
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (i+12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Infectious Diseases (REIPI RD16/0016), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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14
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Infections associated with the use of eculizumab: recommendations for prevention and prophylaxis. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2018; 29:319-29. [PMID: 27257797 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Eculizumab inhibits complement effector functions and has significantly impacted the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. However, the risks of potentially life-threatening infections, notably with Neisseria spp. in addition to its cost, are major challenges in clinical practice. In this review, we characterize and summarize the infectious complications reported with the use of eculizumab in the context of its typical and expanding indications. RECENT FINDINGS Use of eculizumab is rapidly extending to the fields of transplantation and neurology. Eculizumab has been primarily associated with an increased risk of meningococcal infections. Immunization against its commonest serotypes (ABCWY) is now possible with the advent of the meningococcal B vaccine. A combined ABCWY vaccine is underway. Preventive strategies against breakthrough Neisseria infections should also include chemoprophylaxis. Less is known about the association of eculizumab with other infections as recently reported. Surrogate markers of complement blockade, notably CH50, and eculizumab efficacy may help in the risk assessment of infection. SUMMARY Eculizumab has opened new horizons in the treatment of complement-mediated disorders. Prophylactic and immunization strategies against the risk of Nesseria spp. infections are sound and feasible. The use of eculizumab is expanding beyond complement-mediated diseases to transplantation and neurological disorders. Further research is needed to better define and stratify the risk of infection and prevention strategies in patients with the latter indications.
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Abbas F, El Kossi M, Jin JK, Sharma A, Halawa A. Recurrence of primary glomerulonephritis: Review of the current evidence. World J Transplant 2017; 7:301-316. [PMID: 29312859 PMCID: PMC5743867 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v7.i6.301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In view of the availability of new immunosuppression strategies, the recurrence of allograft glomerulonephritis (GN) are reported to be increasing with time post transplantation. Recent advances in understanding the pathogenesis of the GN recurrent disease provided a better chance to develop new strategies to deal with the GN recurrence. Recurrent GN diseases manifest with a variable course, stubborn behavior, and poor response to therapy. Some types of GN lead to rapid decline of kidney function resulting in a frustrating return to maintenance dialysis. This subgroup of aggressive diseases actually requires intensive efforts to ascertain their pathogenesis so that strategy could be implemented for better allograft survival. Epidemiology of native glomerulonephritis as the cause of end-stage renal failure and subsequent recurrence of individual glomerulonephritis after renal transplantation was evaluated using data from various registries, and pathogenesis of individual glomerulonephritis is discussed. The following review is aimed to define current protocols of the recurrent primary glomerulonephritis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedaey Abbas
- Department of Nephrology, Jaber El Ahmed Military Hospital, Safat 13005, Kuwait
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
| | - Mohsen El Kossi
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Doncaster DN2 5LT, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Kim Jin
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Nottingham Children Hospital, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Royal Liverpool University Hospitals, Liverpool L7 8XP, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed Halawa
- Faculty of Health and Science, University of Liverpool, Institute of Learning and Teaching, School of Medicine, Liverpool L69 3GB, United Kingdom
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield S5 7AU, United Kingdom
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16
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Midterm Outcomes of 12 Renal Transplant Recipients Treated With Eculizumab to Prevent Atypical Hemolytic Syndrome Recurrence. Transplantation 2017; 101:2924-2930. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000001909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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17
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de Andrade LGM, Contti MM, Nga HS, Bravin AM, Takase HM, Viero RM, da Silva TN, Chagas KDN, Palma LMP. Long-term outcomes of the Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome after kidney transplantation treated with eculizumab as first choice. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188155. [PMID: 29136640 PMCID: PMC5685617 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The treatment of choice for Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) is the monoclonal antibody eculizumab. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of eculizumab in a cohort of kidney transplant patients suffering from aHUS. Methods Description of the prospective cohort of all the patients primarily treated with eculizumab after transplantation and divided into the therapeutic (onset of aHUS after transplantation) and prophylactic use (patients with previous diagnosis of aHUS undergoing kidney transplantation). Results Seven cases were outlined: five of therapeutic use and two, prophylactic. From the five cases of therapeutic use, there was improvement of the thrombotic microangiopathy in the 48 hours following the start of the drug and no patient experienced relapse during an average follow-up of 21 months in the continuous use of eculizumab (minimum of 6 and maximum of 42 months). One patient died at 6 months, due to Aspergillus infection. From the two cases of prophylactic use, one patient experienced relapsed thrombotic microangiopathy after 4 months and another patient remained asymptomatic after 16 months of follow-up, both on chronic treatment. Discussion The therapeutic use of eculizumab showed to be effective, with improvement of the microangiopathy parameters and persisting up to the end of the follow-up, without relapses. The additional risk of immunosuppression, leading to opportunistic infections, was well tolerated. The prophylactic use showed to be effective and safe; however, the doses and intervals should be individualized in order to avoid relapsed microangiopathy, especially in patients with factor H mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariana Moraes Contti
- Department of Internal Medicine, University São Paulo State(UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Hong Si Nga
- Department of Internal Medicine, University São Paulo State(UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Ariane Moyses Bravin
- Department of Internal Medicine, University São Paulo State(UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Henrique Mochida Takase
- Department of Internal Medicine, University São Paulo State(UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Rosa Marlene Viero
- Department of Internal Medicine, University São Paulo State(UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Trycia Nunes da Silva
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Estadual de Bauru, Bauru, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Kelem De Nardi Chagas
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, São Paulo State, Brazil
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18
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Brocklebank V, Kavanagh D. Complement C5-inhibiting therapy for the thrombotic microangiopathies: accumulating evidence, but not a panacea. Clin Kidney J 2017; 10:600-624. [PMID: 28980670 PMCID: PMC5622895 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfx081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), characterized by organ injury occurring consequent to severe endothelial damage, can manifest in a diverse range of diseases. In complement-mediated atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS) a primary defect in complement, such as a mutation or autoantibody leading to over activation of the alternative pathway, predisposes to the development of disease, usually following exposure to an environmental trigger. The elucidation of the pathogenesis of aHUS resulted in the successful introduction of the complement inhibitor eculizumab into clinical practice. In other TMAs, although complement activation may be seen, its role in the pathogenesis remains to be confirmed by an interventional trial. Although many case reports in TMAs other than complement-mediated aHUS hint at efficacy, publication bias, concurrent therapies and in some cases the self-limiting nature of disease make broader interpretation difficult. In this article, we will review the evidence for the role of complement inhibition in complement-mediated aHUS and other TMAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Brocklebank
- The National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre (NRCTC), Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - David Kavanagh
- The National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre (NRCTC), Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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19
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Legendre CM, Campistol JM, Feldkamp T, Remuzzi G, Kincaid JF, Lommelé Å, Wang J, Weekers LE, Sheerin NS. Outcomes of patients with atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome with native and transplanted kidneys treated with eculizumab: a pooled post hoc analysis. Transpl Int 2017; 30:1275-1283. [PMID: 28801959 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS) often leads to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and kidney transplantation; graft loss rates are high due to disease recurrence. A post hoc analysis of four prospective clinical trials in aHUS was performed to evaluate eculizumab, a terminal complement inhibitor, in patients with native or transplanted kidneys. The trials included 26-week treatment and extension periods. Dialysis, transplant and graft loss were evaluated. Study endpoints included complete thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) response, TMA event-free status, haematologic and renal parameters and adverse events. Of 100 patients, 74 had native kidneys and 26 in the transplant subgroup had a collective history of 38 grafts. No patients lost grafts and only one with pre-existing ESRD received a transplant on treatment. Efficacy endpoints were achieved similarly in both subgroups. After 26 weeks, mean absolute estimated glomerular filtration rate increased from baseline to 61 and 37 ml/min/1.73 m2 in native (n = 71; P < 0.0001) and transplanted kidney (n = 25; P = 0.0092) subgroups. Two patients (one/subgroup) developed meningococcal infections; both recovered, one continued therapy. Eculizumab was well tolerated. Eculizumab improved haematologic and renal outcomes in both subgroups. In patients with histories of multiple graft losses, eculizumab protected kidney function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe M Legendre
- Adult Kidney Transplant Unit, Université Paris Descartes and Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Josep M Campistol
- Renal Transplant Unit, Nephrology and Urology Department, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thorsten Feldkamp
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian Albrechts University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- Unit of Nephrology, Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, L. Sacco, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - John F Kincaid
- Global Medical Affairs, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Åsa Lommelé
- Medical & Scientific Communication, Alexion Pharma GmbH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jimmy Wang
- Biostatistics, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Laurent E Weekers
- Service of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Neil S Sheerin
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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20
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A novel CFHR1-CFHR5 hybrid leads to a familial dominant C3 glomerulopathy. Kidney Int 2017; 92:876-887. [PMID: 28729035 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2017.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The intrinsic similarity shared between the members of the complement factor H family, which comprises complement factor H and five complement factor H-related (CFHR) genes, leads to various recombination events. In turn these events lead to deletions of some genes or abnormal proteins, which are found in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome or C3 glomerulopathies. Here we describe a novel genetic rearrangement generated from a heterozygous deletion spanning 146 Kbp involving multiple CFHR genes leading to a CFHR1-R5 hybrid protein. This deletion was found in four family members presenting with a familial dominant glomerulopathy histologically classified as an overlap of dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis. Affected patients exhibited permanently low C3 and factor B levels and high amounts of activation fragments sC5b9 and Bb, indicating a systemic alternative pathway dysregulation. The abnormal protein, characterized by Western blot and immunoprecipitation, was shown to circulate in association with CFHR1 and CFHR2, attributable to its two N-terminal dimerization motifs. The presence of this protein is associated with a perturbation of Factor H activity on the C3 convertase decay. Thus, our study highlights the role of CFHRs in the physiopathology of C3 glomerulopathies and stresses the importance of screening CFHRs in all familial C3 glomerulopathies. Such hybrids described till now were always associated with familial forms.
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21
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Tatapudi VS, Montgomery RA. Pharmacologic Complement Inhibition in Clinical Transplantation. CURRENT TRANSPLANTATION REPORTS 2017; 4:91-100. [PMID: 29214126 PMCID: PMC5707230 DOI: 10.1007/s40472-017-0148-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Over the past two decades, significant strides made in our understanding of the etiology of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in transplantation have put the complement system in the spotlight. Here, we review recent progress made in the field of pharmacologic complement inhibition in clinical transplantation and aim to understand the impact of this therapeutic approach on outcomes in transplant recipients. Recent Findings Encouraged by the success of agents targeting the complement cascade in disorders of unrestrained complement activation like paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), investigators are testing the safety and efficacy of pharmacologic complement blockade in mitigating allograft injury in conditions ranging from AMR to recurrent post-transplant aHUS, C3 glomerulopathies and antiphospholipid anti-body syndrome (APS). A recent prospective study demonstrated the efficacy of terminal complement inhibition with eculizumab in the prevention of acute AMR in human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-incompatible living donor renal transplant recipients. C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) was well tolerated in two recent studies in the treatment of AMR and was associated with improved renal allograft function. Summary Pharmacologic complement inhibition is emerging as valuable therapeutic tool, especially in the management of highly sensitized renal transplant recipients. Novel and promising agents that target various elements in the complement cascade are in development. Graphical Abstractᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasishta S Tatapudi
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Robert A Montgomery
- NYU Langone Transplant Institute, 530 First Avenue, HCC 7A, New York, NY 10016 USA
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22
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Yamamoto T, Watarai Y, Futamura K, Okada M, Tsujita M, Hiramitsu T, Goto N, Narumi S, Takeda A, Kobayashi T. Efficacy of Eculizumab Therapy for Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Recurrence and Antibody-Mediated Rejection Progress After Renal Transplantation With Preformed Donor-Specific Antibodies: Case Report. Transplant Proc 2017; 49:159-162. [PMID: 28104125 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) develops as the result of unregulated complement progression and precipitates de novo thrombotic microangiopathy. Plasma therapy is used to control the progression of the complement cascade, but that therapy is not effective in all patients and is accompanied by risk of infection and/or allergy. Eculizumab has been reported as an efficient therapy for aHUS. We report the case of a 35-year old woman who underwent effective eculizumab therapy for aHUS recurrence and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) progress after renal transplantation with preformed donor-specific antibodies (DSA). She developed end-stage renal disease due to suspicious IgA nephropathy at age 33 years. Kidney transplantation was performed at age 35 years, and aHUS recurred 2 weeks later, leading to the progressive hemolytic anemia and renal dysfunction. Therefore, she underwent plasma therapy several times. Because it was difficult to continue to plasma therapy for severe allergy, eculizumab was proposed as an alternate therapy. Treatment with eculizumab was initiated 36 days after renal transplantation. After 3 years of eculizumab treatment, and without plasma therapy, schistocytes decreased, haptoglobin increased to within normal limits, creatinine levels stabilized, and no further episodes of diarrhea were reported. At protocol biopsy 1 year after transplantation, she was diagnosed with C4d-negative subclinical AMR. However, her pathologic findings at follow-up biopsy 3 years after transplantation were recovered. We conclude that eculizumab alone, without plasma therapy, is sufficient to treat recurrence of aHUS and AMR due to DSA after renal transplantation and to maintain long-term graft function.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yamamoto
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Y Watarai
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - K Futamura
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - M Okada
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - M Tsujita
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - T Hiramitsu
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - N Goto
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - S Narumi
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - A Takeda
- Department of Nephrology, Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - T Kobayashi
- Department of Kidney Transplant Surgery, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
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23
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Sun ZJ, Du X, Su LL, Zhang XD, Wang Y, Ren L, Wang W. Successful Renal Transplantation in a Patient with Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Treated with Eculizumab in China. Chin Med J (Engl) 2017; 129:1379-81. [PMID: 27231180 PMCID: PMC4894053 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.182843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Jia Sun
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xin Du
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Lu-Lu Su
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Liang Ren
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
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24
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Okumi M, Tanabe K. Prevention and treatment of atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome after kidney transplantation. Nephrology (Carlton) 2017; 21 Suppl 1:9-13. [PMID: 26988663 DOI: 10.1111/nep.12776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by an over-activated, dysregulated alternative complement pathway due to genetic mutation and environmental triggers. Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome is a serious, life-threatening disease characterized by thrombotic microangiopathy, which causes haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopaenia, and acute renal failure. Since recurrences of atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome frequently lead to end-stage kidney disease even in renal allografts, kidney transplantation for patients with end-stage kidney disease secondary to atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome has long been contraindicated. However, over the past several years, advancements in the management of atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome have allowed successful kidney transplantation in these patients. The key factor of this success is eculizumab, a humanized anti-C5 monoclonal antibody, which inhibits terminal membrane-attack complex formation and thrombotic microangiopathy progression. In the setting of kidney transplantation, there are different possible triggers of post-transplant atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome recurrence, such as brain-death related injury, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, infections, the use of immunosuppressive drugs, and rejection. Principal strategies are to prevent endothelial damage that could potentially activate alternative complement pathway activation and subsequently lead to atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome recurrence in kidney allograft. Published data shows that prophylactic eculizumab therapy is highly effective for the prevention of post-transplant atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome recurrence, and prompt treatment with eculizumab as soon as recurrence is diagnosed is important to maintain renal allograft function. Further study to determine the optimal dosing and duration of prophylactic therapy and treatment of post-transplant atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome recurrence is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayoshi Okumi
- Department of Urology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazunari Tanabe
- Department of Urology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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Salvadori M, Bertoni E. Complement related kidney diseases: Recurrence after transplantation. World J Transplant 2016; 6:632-645. [PMID: 28058212 PMCID: PMC5175220 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v6.i4.632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The recurrence of renal disease after renal transplantation is becoming one of the main causes of graft loss after kidney transplantation. This principally concerns some of the original diseases as the atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), the membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), in particular the MPGN now called C3 glomerulopathy. Both this groups of renal diseases are characterized by congenital (genetic) or acquired (auto-antibodies) modifications of the alternative pathway of complement. These abnormalities often remain after transplantation because they are constitutional and poorly influenced by the immunosuppression. This fact justifies the high recurrence rate of these diseases. Early diagnosis of recurrence is essential for an optimal therapeutically approach, whenever possible. Patients affected by end stage renal disease due to C3 glomerulopathies or to atypical HUS, may be transplanted with extreme caution. Living donor donation from relatives is not recommended because members of the same family may be affected by the same gene mutation. Different therapeutically approaches have been attempted either for recurrence prevention and treatment. The most promising approach is represented by complement inhibitors. Eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody against C5 convertase is the most promising drug, even if to date is not known how long the therapy should be continued and which are the best dosing. These facts face the high costs of the treatment. Eculizumab resistant patients have been described. They could benefit by a C3 convertase inhibitor, but this class of drugs is by now the object of randomized controlled trials.
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Cosio FG, Cattran DC. Recent advances in our understanding of recurrent primary glomerulonephritis after kidney transplantation. Kidney Int 2016; 91:304-314. [PMID: 27837947 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2016.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent glomerulonephritis (GN) is an important cause of kidney allograft failure, particularly in younger recipients. Approximately 15% of death-censored graft failures are due to recurrent GN, but this incidence is likely an underestimation of the magnitude of the problem. Overall, 18% to 22% of kidney allografts are lost due to GN, either recurrent or presumed de novo. The impact of recurrent GN on allograft survival was recognized from the earliest times in kidney transplantation. However, progress in this area has been slow, and our understanding of GN recurrence remains limited, in large part due to incomplete understanding of the pathogenesis of these diseases. This review focuses on recent advances in our general understanding of the pathophysiology of primary GN, the risk of recurrence in the allograft, and the consequences for kidney graft survival. We focus specifically on the most common forms of primary GN, including focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, membranous nephropathy, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, and IgA nephropathy. New understanding of the pathogenesis of these diseases has had direct clinical implications for transplantation, allowing better identification of candidates at high risk of recurrence and earlier diagnoses, and it is expected to lead to significance improvements in the therapy and perhaps even prevention of GN recurrence. More than ever, it is essential to fully characterize GN before transplantation as this information will direct our management posttransplantation. Further, the relative rarity of recurrent GN dictates the need for multicenter studies in order to evaluate, test, and validate recent advances and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando G Cosio
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, William von Liebig Center for Transplantation and Clinical Regeneration Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
| | - Daniel C Cattran
- Department of Nephrology, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
The biology of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome has been shown to involve inability to limit activation of the alternative complement pathway, with subsequent damage to systemic endothelial beds and the vasculature, resulting in the prototypic findings of a thrombotic microangiopathy. Central to this process is the formation of the terminal membrane attack complex C5b-9. Recently, application of a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to C5, eculizumab, became available to treat patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, replacing plasma exchange or infusion as primary therapy. This review focuses on the evidence, based on published clinical trials, case series, and case reports, on the efficacy and safety of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian M Pereira Palma
- Pediatric Nephrology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Craig B Langman
- The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, and the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Muff-Luett M, Nester CM. The Genetics of Ultra-Rare Renal Disease. J Pediatr Genet 2016; 5:33-42. [PMID: 27617140 DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1572515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The complement-mediated renal diseases are a group of ultra-rare renal diseases that disproportionately affect children and young adults and frequently lead to irreversible renal failure. Genetic mutations in alternate pathway of complement genes are pathomechanistically involved in a significant number of these unique diseases. Here, we review our current understanding of the role of genetics in the primary complement-mediated renal diseases affecting children, with a focus on atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and C3 glomerulopathy. Also, included is a brief discussion of the related diseases whose relationship to complement abnormality has been suspected but not yet confirmed. Advances in genetics have transformed both treatment and outcomes in these historically difficult to treat, highly morbid diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Muff-Luett
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States
| | - Carla M Nester
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States; Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratory, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
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Frazer-Abel A, Sepiashvili L, Mbughuni MM, Willrich MAV. Overview of Laboratory Testing and Clinical Presentations of Complement Deficiencies and Dysregulation. Adv Clin Chem 2016; 77:1-75. [PMID: 27717414 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Historically, complement disorders have been attributed to immunodeficiency associated with severe or frequent infection. More recently, however, complement has been recognized for its role in inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and vision loss. This paradigm shift requires a fundamental change in how complement testing is performed and interpreted. Here, we provide an overview of the complement pathways and summarize recent literature related to hereditary and acquired angioedema, infectious diseases, autoimmunity, and age-related macular degeneration. The impact of complement dysregulation in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and C3 glomerulopathies is also described. The advent of therapeutics such as eculizumab and other complement inhibitors has driven the need to more fully understand complement to facilitate diagnosis and monitoring. In this report, we review analytical methods and discuss challenges for the clinical laboratory in measuring this complex biochemical system.
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Adjustment of Eculizumab Dosage Pattern in Patients with Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome with Suboptimal Response to Standard Treatment Pattern. Case Rep Nephrol 2016; 2016:7471082. [PMID: 28025630 PMCID: PMC5153492 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7471082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), complement blocking by eculizumab rapidly halts the process of thrombotic microangiopathy and it is associated with clear long-term hematologic and renal improvements. Eculizumab treatment consists of a 4-week initial phase with weekly IV administration of 900 mg doses, followed by a maintenance phase with a 1,200 mg dose in the fifth week and every 14±2 days thereafter. We present three patients with aHUS and suboptimal response to eculizumab treatment at the usual administration dosage who showed hematologic and renal improvements after an adjustment in the eculizumab treatment protocol.
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Campistol JM, Arias M, Ariceta G, Blasco M, Espinosa L, Espinosa M, Grinyó JM, Macía M, Mendizábal S, Praga M, Román E, Torra R, Valdés F, Vilalta R, Rodríguez de Córdoba S. An update for atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome: diagnosis and treatment. A consensus document. Nefrologia 2015; 35:421-47. [PMID: 26456110 DOI: 10.1016/j.nefro.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) is a clinical entity defined as the triad of nonimmune haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure, in which the underlying lesions are mediated by systemic thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Different causes can induce the TMA process that characterizes HUS. In this document we consider atypical HUS (aHUS) a sub-type of HUS in which the TMA phenomena are the consequence of the endotelial damage in the microvasculature of the kidneys and other organs due to a disregulation of the activity of the complement system. In recent years, a variety of aHUs-related mutations have been identified in genes of the the complement system, which can explain approximately 60% of the aHUS cases, and a number of mutations and polymorphisms have been functionally characterized. These findings have stablished that aHUS is a consequence of the insufficient regulation of the activiation of the complement on cell surfaces, leading to endotelial damage mediated by C5 and the complement terminal pathway. Eculizumab is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the activation of C5 and blocks the generation of the pro-inflammatory molecule C5a and the formation of the cell membrane attack complex. In prospective studies in patients with aHUS, the use of Eculizumab has shown a fast and sustained interruption of the TMA process and it has been associated with significative long-term improvements in renal function, the interruption of plasma therapy and important reductions in the need of dialysis. According to the existing literature and the accumulated clinical experience, the Spanish aHUS Group published a consensus document with recommendations for the treatment of aHUs (Nefrologia 2013;33[1]:27-45). In the current online version of this document, we update the aetiological classification of TMAs, the pathophysiology of aHUS, its differential diagnosis and its therapeutic management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuel Arias
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, España
| | - Gema Ariceta
- Servicio de Nefrología Pediátrica, Hospital Universitari Materno-Infantil Vall d'Hebrón, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Miguel Blasco
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, España
| | - Laura Espinosa
- Servicio de Nefrología Pediátrica, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, España
| | - Mario Espinosa
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, España
| | - Josep M Grinyó
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España
| | - Manuel Macía
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Virgen de la Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| | | | - Manuel Praga
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, España
| | - Elena Román
- Servicio de Nefrología Pediátrica, Hospital La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - Roser Torra
- Enfermedades Renales Hereditarias, Fundació Puigvert, Barcelona, España
| | - Francisco Valdés
- Servicio de Nefrología, Complejo Hospitalario A Coruña, A Coruña, España
| | - Ramón Vilalta
- Servicio de Nefrología Pediátrica, Hospital Universitari Materno-Infantil Vall d'Hebrón, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
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Chen Q, Manzke M, Hartmann A, Büttner M, Amann K, Pauly D, Wiesener M, Skerka C, Zipfel PF. Complement Factor H-Related 5-Hybrid Proteins Anchor Properdin and Activate Complement at Self-Surfaces. J Am Soc Nephrol 2015; 27:1413-25. [PMID: 26432903 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2015020212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a severe kidney disease for which no specific therapy exists. The causes of C3G are heterogeneous, and defective complement regulation is often linked to C3G pathogenesis. Copy number variations in the complement factor H-related (CFHR) gene cluster on chromosome 1q32 and CFHR5 mutant proteins associate with this disease. Here, we identified CFHR5 as a pattern recognition protein that binds to damaged human endothelial cell surfaces and to properdin, the human complement activator. We found the two N-terminal short consensus repeat domains of CFHR5 contact properdin and mediate dimer formation. These properdin-binding segments are duplicated in two mutant CFHR5 proteins, CFHR2-CFHR5Hyb from German patients with C3G and CFHR5Dup from Cypriot patients with C3G. Each of these mutated proteins assembled into large multimeric complexes and, compared to CFHR5, bound damaged human cell surfaces and properdin with greater intensity and exacerbated local complement activation. This enhanced surface binding and properdin recruitment was further evidenced in the mesangia of a transplanted and explanted kidney from a German patient with a CFHR2-CFHR5Hyb protein. Enhanced properdin staining correlated with local complement activation with C3b and C5b-9 deposition on the mesangial cell surface in vitro This gain of function in complement activation for two disease-associated CFHR5 mutants describes a new disease mechanism of C3G, which is relevant for defining appropriate treatment options for this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany
| | - Melanie Manzke
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany
| | - Andrea Hartmann
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany
| | - Maike Büttner
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Amann
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Diana Pauly
- University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany; and
| | - Michael Wiesener
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Christine Skerka
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter F Zipfel
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany; Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
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Grenda R, Jarmużek W, Rubik J, Prokurat S, Miklaszewska M, Drozdz D, Zachwieja K, Ardissino G, Hofer J. Favorable four-yr outcome after renal transplantation in a patient with complement factor H antibody and CFHR1/CFHR3 gene mutation-associated HUS. Pediatr Transplant 2015; 19:E130-4. [PMID: 26087050 DOI: 10.1111/petr.12537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED aHUS is a clinical challenge for successful renal transplantation. CASE REPORT A 14-yr-old girl lost her kidneys at the age of 7, due to CFH antibodies and CFH-related protein (CFHR1/CFHR3) homozygous deletion-associated aHUS. CFH, CFI, and MCP gene mutations were excluded. The patient was a candidate for renal transplantation despite persistent presence of CFH antibodies (up to 539 AU/mL). Treatment with MMF, IVIG, and repeated PF (n = 8) was introduced while being placed on urgent waiting list. Three years after aHUS onset, the patient underwent the deceased donor renal transplantation "under cover" of PF, as PF was performed directly prior to surgery and, then, PFs were repeated up to overall 14 sessions. Quadruple immunosuppression (basiliximab + tacrolimus + MMF + prednisolone) was used. Moderate symptoms of aHUS (hemolysis, low platelets, and low C3) were present within first seven days post-transplant and then normalized with PF therapy. The patient remained stable during four yr of further follow-up after transplantation. CONCLUSION Specific pre- and post-transplant management allowed successful renal transplantation in a CFH antibody-positive patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryszard Grenda
- Department of Nephrology, Kidney Transplantation and Hypertension, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wioletta Jarmużek
- Department of Nephrology, Kidney Transplantation and Hypertension, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Rubik
- Department of Nephrology, Kidney Transplantation and Hypertension, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sylwester Prokurat
- Department of Nephrology, Kidney Transplantation and Hypertension, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Miklaszewska
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland
| | - Dorota Drozdz
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Zachwieja
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland
| | | | - Johannes Hofer
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology and Nephrology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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Nester CM, Barbour T, de Cordoba SR, Dragon-Durey MA, Fremeaux-Bacchi V, Goodship THJ, Kavanagh D, Noris M, Pickering M, Sanchez-Corral P, Skerka C, Zipfel P, Smith RJH. Atypical aHUS: State of the art. Mol Immunol 2015; 67:31-42. [PMID: 25843230 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2015.03.246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tremendous advances in our understanding of the thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) have revealed distinct disease mechanisms within this heterogeneous group of diseases. As a direct result of this knowledge, both children and adults with complement-mediated TMA now enjoy higher expectations for long-term health. In this update on atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, we review the clinical characteristics; the genetic and acquired drivers of disease; the broad spectrum of environmental triggers; and current diagnosis and treatment options. Many questions remain to be addressed if additional improvements in patient care and outcome are to be achieved in the coming decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla M Nester
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Division of Nephrology, Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Thomas Barbour
- Centre for Complement and Inflammation Research, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London W12 0NN, UK
| | | | - Marie Agnes Dragon-Durey
- Assistance Publique - Hopitaux de Paris, Service d'Immunologie Biologique, Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou, Paris, France
| | - Veronique Fremeaux-Bacchi
- Assistance Publique - Hopitaux de Paris, Service d'Immunologie Biologique, Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou, Paris, France
| | - Tim H J Goodship
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - David Kavanagh
- Assistance Publique - Hopitaux de Paris, Service d'Immunologie Biologique, Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou, Paris, France
| | - Marina Noris
- IRCCS - Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo e Cele Daccò", Ranica, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Matthew Pickering
- Centre for Complement and Inflammation Research, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Pilar Sanchez-Corral
- Unidad de Investigación and Ciber de Enfermedades Raras, Hospital Universitario de La Paz_IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Christine Skerka
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Zipfel
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Jena, Germany; Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Richard J H Smith
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Division of Nephrology, Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disease with a high recurrence rate after kidney transplantation. In most cases, aHUS are caused by genetic mutations of components of the complement alternative pathway. In this single-center series, we present our data of 12 consecutive patients with aHUS and the outcome after kidney transplantation. METHODS In this 10-year retrospective study, we identified 12 patients with aHUS who were managed in our center since 2003. We reviewed clinical data, including genetic testing, posttransplant course and response to therapy including the prophylactic use of eculizumab. RESULTS Overall, eight patients are women. Six of our patients have at least one genetic mutation causing aHUS, including 4 with complement factor H mutations. Nine patients had at least one previous kidney transplant that failed secondary to recurrent aHUS (75% of our patients). Three patients were treated with eculizumab and plasmapheresis for recurrent aHUS after kidney transplantation; two of them responded to the therapy. Four patients received prophylactic eculizumab; three of them received 6 months and one has been on life long therapy. No signs of recurrence have been observed in these 4 patients so far. CONCLUSION Genetic mutations of the complement alternative pathway were confirmed in half of our patients, most of those mutations are in CHF. We demonstrate that treatment or prophylaxis with eculizumab was effective in reversing or preventing aHUS whether or not genetic complement mutations were identified.
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Ranch D, Crowther B, Arar M, Assanasen C. Prophylactic eculizumab for kidney transplantation in a child with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome due to complement factor H mutation. Pediatr Transplant 2014; 18:E185-9. [PMID: 24931815 DOI: 10.1111/petr.12290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We present a case of successful deceased-donor kidney transplantation in a three-yr-old child with aHUS due to complement factor H mutation, using only prophylactic eculizumab treatment prior to transplant. She developed disease exacerbation in the immediate post-operative period despite having therapeutic eculizumab concentrations and evidence for complete complement pathway blockade. The patient responded well to additional doses of eculizumab and has maintained excellent graft function and disease control in the first year post-transplantation. The optimal dosing scheme for eculizumab in the perioperative period remains to be determined. More sensitive biomarkers of early disease activity are needed to improve disease monitoring. Finally, the duration of eculizumab therapy in patients with aHUS remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ranch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Abstract
The recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody eculizumab (Soliris(®)) is a complement inhibitor that is indicated for use in the treatment of atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS). This article reviews the clinical efficacy and tolerability of eculizumab in the treatment of patients with aHUS, as well as summarizing its pharmacological properties. Intravenous eculizumab inhibited complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy in patients aged ≥12 years with aHUS, according to the results of two noncomparative, multinational, 26-week, phase II trials. At 26 weeks, the platelet count was significantly increased in patients with progressing thrombotic microangiopathy despite plasma exchange/infusion, and thrombotic microangiopathic event-free status was achieved in 80 % of patients with a long disease duration and chronic kidney disease who received long-term plasma exchange/infusion. Renal function and health-related quality of life also improved with eculizumab therapy in both studies. Outcomes were maintained or further improved throughout 2 years of follow-up. Eculizumab was also effective in adult and paediatric patients with aHUS, according to the results of additional prospective or retrospective trials. Intravenous eculizumab was generally well tolerated in patients with aHUS. Eculizumab is associated with an increased susceptibility to meningococcal infection, so patients should be immunized with meningococcal vaccine. In conclusion, eculizumab is a valuable new agent for use in the treatment of aHUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian M Keating
- Adis, 41 Centorian Drive, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, North Shore, 0754, Auckland, New Zealand,
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38
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry A Greenbaum
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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39
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Abstract
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure. The atypical form of HUS is a disease characterized by complement overactivation. Inherited defects in complement genes and acquired autoantibodies against complement regulatory proteins have been described. Incomplete penetrance of mutations in all predisposing genes is reported, suggesting that a precipitating event or trigger is required to unmask the complement regulatory deficiency. The underlying genetic defect predicts the prognosis both in native kidneys and after renal transplantation. The successful trials of the complement inhibitor eculizumab in the treatment of atypical HUS will revolutionize disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Kavanagh
- The Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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40
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Managing and preventing atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome recurrence after kidney transplantation. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2014; 22:704-12. [PMID: 24076560 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0b013e328365b3fe] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Several genetic and acquired abnormalities leading to abnormal activation of the alternative pathway of complement have been identified in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). The purpose of this review is to shed light on how advances in the understanding of aHUS pathogenesis have impacted on prevention and cure of aHUS recurrence after kidney transplantation. RECENT FINDINGS Studies over the past decade have shown that the risk of posttransplant recurrence of aHUS depends on the underlying genetic abnormality. The risk is high in patients with mutations in genes encoding circulating complement proteins and regulators, whereas patients with mutations in membrane cofactor protein generally show good transplant outcome. Given the poor outcome associated with recurrence, isolated renal transplantation had been contraindicated in aHUS patients. Combined kidney-liver transplantation and prophylactic plasma exchange have been used to prevent posttransplant recurrences. More recent data have provided evidence about the efficacy of the anti-C5 monoclonal antibody eculizumab in the prevention and treatment of posttransplant aHUS recurrences. SUMMARY This review summarizes recent advances on preventing and managing aHUS recurrence after kidney transplantation and discusses the issues that still need clarification.
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Successful treatment of DEAP-HUS with eculizumab. Pediatr Nephrol 2014; 29:841-51. [PMID: 24249282 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-013-2654-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Revised: 09/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficiency of complement factor H-related (CFHR) proteins and CFH autoantibody-positive hemolytic uremic syndrome (DEAP-HUS) represents a unique subgroup of complement-mediated atypical HUS (aHUS). Autoantibodies to the C-terminus of CFH block CFH surface recognition and mimic mutations found in the genetic form of (CFH-mediated) aHUS. CFH autoantibodies are found in 10-15 % of aHUS patients and occur--so far unexplained--almost exclusively in the background of CFHR1 or CFHR3/CFHR1 deletions. METHODS As a well-defined role for eculizumab in the treatment of complement-mediated aHUS is becoming established, its role in DEAP-HUS is less conspicuous, where a B-cell-depleting and immunosuppressive treatment strategy is being proposed in the literature. RESULTS We here show eculizumab to be safe and effective in maintaining a disease-free state, without recurrence, in a previously plasma-therapy-dependent DEAP-HUS patient, and in another patient in whom, although showing a good clinical response to plasma therapy, the therapy was hampered by allergic reactions to fresh frozen plasma and contend there is a rationale for the use of eculizumab in concert with an immunosuppressive strategy in the treatment of DEAP-HUS. Considering the high rate of early relapse, the possible coexistence and contribution of both known and unknown complement-gene mutations, the probable pathogenic role of CFHR1 as a complement alternative pathway (CAP) regulator, the experimental nature of measuring and using anti-CFH autoantibodies to guide management, and until the positive reports of immunosuppression in addition to plasma therapy are confirmed in prospective studies, we feel that a complement-directed therapy should not be neglected in DEAP-HUS. Serial CFH autoantibody titer testing may become a valuable tool to monitor treatment response, and weaning patients off eculizumab may become an option once CFH autoantibody levels are depleted. CONCLUSIONS A prospective study of eculizumab treatment in a larger cohort of DEAP-HUS patients is required to validate the applicability of our positive experience.
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Mele C, Remuzzi G, Noris M. Hemolytic uremic syndrome. Semin Immunopathol 2014; 36:399-420. [PMID: 24526222 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-014-0416-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 01/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a thrombotic microangiopathy defined by thrombocytopenia, nonimmune microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and acute renal failure. The most frequent form is associated with infections by Shiga-like toxin-producing bacteria (STEC-HUS). Rarer cases are triggered by neuraminidase-producing Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcal-HUS). The designation of aHUS is used to refer to those cases in which an infection by Shiga-like toxin-producing bacteria or S. pneumoniae can be excluded. Studies performed in the last two decades have documented that hyperactivation of the complement system is the pathogenetic effector mechanism leading to the endothelial damage and the microvascular thrombosis in aHUS. Recent data suggested the involvement of the complement system in the pathogenesis of STEC-HUS and pneumococcal-HUS as well. Clinical signs and symptoms may overlap among the different forms of HUS; however, pneumococcal-HUS and aHUS have a worse prognosis compared with STEC-HUS. Early diagnosis and identification of underlying pathogenetic mechanism allows instating specific support measures and therapies. In clinical trials in patients with aHUS, complement inhibition by eculizumab administration leads to a rapid and sustained normalization of hematological parameters with improvement in long-term renal function. This review summarizes current concepts about the epidemiological findings, the pathological and clinical aspects of STEC-HUS, pneumococcal-HUS, and aHUS, and their diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Mele
- IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo e Cele Daccò", Via Camozzi, 3, Ranica, Bergamo, 24020, Italy
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Roumenina LT, Roquigny R, Blanc C, Poulain N, Ngo S, Dragon-Durey MA, Frémeaux-Bacchi V. Functional evaluation of factor H genetic and acquired abnormalities: application for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1100:237-247. [PMID: 24218264 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-724-2_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a paradigm of a disease, caused by overactivation of the alternative complement pathway secondary to a not well-understood trigger event. About 60 % of the patients present genetic or acquired abnormalities in the proteins of the alternative complement pathway. In 40 % of the cases the affected protein is the complement regulator Factor H (FH)-30 % due to mutations and 10 % because of anti-FH autoantibodies. Here we describe the detailed protocol for a rapid test to analyse the functional defect associated with genetic or acquired FH-related abnormalities. It can be applied for the characterization of the underlying complement defect in aHUS, based on spontaneous lysis of non-sensitized sheep erythrocytes in contact with patients' plasma or serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubka T Roumenina
- Cordeliers Research Center, INSERM UMRS 872, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, and Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
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Román-Ortiz E, Mendizabal Oteiza S, Pinto S, López-Trascasa M, Sánchez-Corral P, Rodríguez de Cordoba S. Eculizumab long-term therapy for pediatric renal transplant in aHUS with CFH/CFHR1 hybrid gene. Pediatr Nephrol 2014; 29:149-53. [PMID: 23982707 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-013-2591-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a form of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) caused by dysregulation of the complement system. Outcomes of kidney transplantation are poor owing to aHUS recurrence and loss of graft. Patients carrying CFH mutations or CFH/CFHR1 hybrid genes present a very high risk of recurrence despite preventive plasmapheresis. Evaluation of recent data suggests that prophylactic eculizumab pretransplant might be the preferred therapy if available. CASE-DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT We report 3-year follow-up data in a 9-year-old boy with aHUS and successful renal transplant treated with prophylactic eculizumab without recurrence. He presented with aHUS at age 3, irreversible renal failure and uncontrolled severe hypertension with concentric left ventricular hypertrophy, recurrent acute pulmonary edema, and congestive heart failure despite five hypotensive agents and bilateral nephrectomy. Complement analysis demonstrated the presence of a CFH/CFHR1 hybrid gene inherited from his mother and a SNP risk CFH haplotype inherited from his father. Kidney transplant was performed with prophylactic eculizumab and subsequent fortnightly administration. Three years post-transplant, graft function remains stable (serum creatinine 0.9 mg/dl), hypertension is controlled, no left ventricular hypertrophy, no opportunistic infections, and negative clinical chemistry parameters for hemolysis. CONCLUSION Eculizumab is a safe and effective therapy for preventing TMA recurrence and provides long-term graft function in aHUS with the CFH/CFHR1 hybrid gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Román-Ortiz
- Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Hospital La Fe, Bulevar sur s/n, 46026, Valencia, Spain,
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Abstract
Immunosuppressive therapy in pediatrics continues to evolve. Over the past decade, newer immunosuppressive agents have been introduced into adult and pediatric transplant patients with the goal of improving patient and allograft survival. Unfortunately, large-scale randomized clinical trials are not commonly performed in children. The purpose of this review is to discuss the newer immunosuppressive agents available for induction therapy, maintenance immunosuppression, and the treatment of rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Nguyen
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ron Shapiro
- Division of Transplant Surgery, UPMC Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Hardinger KL, Brennan DC. Novel immunosuppressive agents in kidney transplantation. World J Transplant 2013; 3:68-77. [PMID: 24392311 PMCID: PMC3879526 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v3.i4.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Excellent outcomes have been achieved in the field of renal transplantation. A significant reduction in acute rejection has been attained at many renal transplant centers using contemporary immunosuppressive, consisting of an induction agent, a calcineurin inhibitor, an antiproliferative agent plus or minus a corticosteroid. Despite improvements with these regimens, chronic allograft injury and adverse events still persist. The perfect immunosuppressive regimen would limit or eliminate calcineurin inhibitors and/or corticosteroid toxicity while providing enhanced allograft outcomes. Potential improvements to the calcineurin inhibitor class include a prolonged release tacrolimus formulation and voclosporin, a cyclosporine analog. Belatacept has shown promise as an agent to replace calcineurin inhibitors. A novel, fully-human anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody, ASKP1240, is currently enrolling patients in phase 2 trials with calcineurin minimization and avoidance regimens. Another future goal of transplant immunosuppression is effective and safe treatment of allograft rejection. Novel treatments for antibody mediated rejection include bortezomib and eculizumab. Several investigational agents are no longer being pursed in transplantation including the induction agents, efalizumab and alefacept, and maintenance agents, sotrastaurin and tofacitinib. The purpose of this review is to consolidate the published evidence of the effectiveness and safety of investigational immunosuppressive agents in renal transplant recipients.
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Eyler SJ, Meyer NC, Zhang Y, Xiao X, Nester CM, Smith RJ. A novel hybrid CFHR1/CFH gene causes atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2013; 28:2221-5. [PMID: 23880784 PMCID: PMC4433496 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-013-2560-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in complement factor H (CFH) are associated with complement dysregulation and the development of an aggressive form of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) that progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and in most patients has a high rate of recurrence following transplantation. Sequence analysis of CFH and its downstream complement factor H-related genes (CFHR1-5) reveals several macrohomologous blocks caused by large genomic duplications. This high degree of sequence identity renders this area susceptible to nonallelic homologous recombination (NAHR) events, resulting in large-scale deletions, duplications, and the generation of hybrid CFH genes. CASE-DIAGNOSIS Here, we report the finding of a novel CFHR1/CFH hybrid gene created by a de novo NAHR event in a 14-year-old girl with aHUS. The resulting fusion protein contains the first three short consensus repeats (SCRs) of CFHR1 and the terminal two SCRs of CFH. CONCLUSIONS This finding demonstrates a novel pathogenic mechanism for the development of aHUS. Additionally, since standard Sanger sequencing is unable to detect such rearrangements, all aHUS patients should receive comprehensive genetic screening that includes analysis of copy number variation in order to identify patients with poor clinical prognoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J. Eyler
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nicole C. Meyer
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Yuzhou Zhang
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Xue Xiao
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Interdepartmental PhD Program in Genetics, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Carla M. Nester
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Richard J.H. Smith
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Interdepartmental PhD Program in Genetics, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Divisions of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Correspondence to: Richard J.H. Smith, MD Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Department of Otolaryngology University of Iowa, 5270 CBRB Building Iowa City, IA 52242, USA Tel: +319 335 6501, Fax: +613 353 5869
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Anti-C5 as Prophylactic Therapy in Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Living-Related Kidney Transplantation. Transplantation 2013; 96:e26-9. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e31829d388d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Sprangers B, Kuypers DR. Recurrence of glomerulonephritis after renal transplantation. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2013; 27:126-34. [PMID: 23954034 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2013.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recurrence of glomerulonephritis following renal transplantation is considered an important cause of allograft failure. The incidence of recurrence of glomerulonephritis varies widely depending on the definition of recurrence (pathologic recurrence or clinicopathologic recurrence) and the original glomerular disease. Moreover the impact of recurrence of glomerular disease on allograft outcome varies widely between different forms of glomerulonephritis. Whereas IgA nephritis recurs in up to one third of transplanted patients, this is not associated with adverse effects on graft survival. In contrast, recurrent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and membranoproliferative glomerulopathy have an unfavorable prognosis. Overall, long-term graft survival in patients transplanted for glomerulonephritis is comparable to survival in patients with other causes of ESRD. In recent years, several mechanisms for recurrent disease after transplantation (e.g. PLA2R antibodies in membranous nephropathy and suPAR in FSGS) have been identified, and these findings have helped to elucidate the pathogenesis of glomerular diseases. Although renal transplantation is the treatment of choice for end-stage renal disease as a consequence of glomerulonephritis, further studies are required to develop optimal strategies to prevent, diagnose and treat recurrent glomerular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Sprangers
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Zuber J, Le Quintrec M, Morris H, Frémeaux-Bacchi V, Loirat C, Legendre C. Targeted strategies in the prevention and management of atypical HUS recurrence after kidney transplantation. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2013; 27:117-25. [PMID: 23937869 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2013.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Atypical hemolytic and uremic syndrome (aHUS) is associated with a high rate of recurrence and poor outcomes after kidney transplantation. Fortunately, recent advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of aHUS have permitted an individualized risk assessment of post-transplant recurrence. Acquired or inherited dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway, thought to be the driving force of the disease, is identified in most aHUS patients. Notably, depending on the mutations involved, the risk of recurrence greatly varies, highlighting the importance of undertaking etiological investigations prior to kidney transplantation. In those with moderate to high risk of recurrence, the use of a prophylactic therapy, consisting in either plasmapheresis or eculizumab therapies, represents a major stride forward in the prevention of aHUS recurrence after kidney transplantation. In those who experience aHUS recurrence, a growing number of observations suggest that eculizumab therapy outperforms curative plasma therapy. The optimal duration of both prophylactic and curative therapies remains an important, yet unaddressed, issue. In this respect, the kidney transplant recipients, continuously exposed to endothelial-insulting factors, referred here as to triggers, might have a sustained high risk of recurrence. A global therapeutic approach should thus attempt to reduce exposure to these triggers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Zuber
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Service de Transplantation Rénale adulte, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, France.
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