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Boris JR, Shadiack EC, McCormick EM, MacMullen L, George-Sankoh I, Falk MJ. Long-Term POTS Outcomes Survey: Diagnosis, Therapy, and Clinical Outcomes. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e033485. [PMID: 38958137 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.033485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited data exist on long-term outcomes in individuals with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). We designed an electronic questionnaire assessing various aspects of outcomes among patients diagnosed and treated in a single-center pediatric POTS clinical program. METHODS AND RESULTS The LT-POTS (Long Term POTS Outcomes Survey) included questions about quality of life, symptoms, therapies, education, employment, and social impact of disease. Patients age≤18 years at POTS diagnosis who were managed in the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia POTS Program were included. A total of 227 patients with POTS responded with sufficient data for interpretation. The mean age of respondents was 21.8±3.5 years. The median age of symptom onset was 13 (interquartile range 11-14) years, with mean 9.6±3.4 years symptom duration. Multiple cardiovascular, neurologic, and gastrointestinal symptoms were reported. Symptom prevalence and severity were worse for female patients, with 99% of patients reporting ongoing symptoms. Quality of life showed moderate function and limitation, with more severe limitations in energy/fatigue and general health. Nearly three quarters of patients had diagnostic delays, and over half were told that their symptoms were "in their head." Multiple medications were used and were felt to be effective, whereas fewer nonpharmacologic interventions demonstrated efficacy. Nearly 90% of patients required continued nonpharmacologic therapy to control symptoms. CONCLUSIONS POTS is a chronic disorder leading to significant disability with a range of multisystem problems. Although symptoms can be modifiable, it rarely spontaneously resolves. Improved understanding of POTS presentation and therapeutic approaches may inform provider education, improve diagnostic success, and help patients self-advocate for appropriate medical management approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edward C Shadiack
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, VA New Jersey Healthcare System East Orange NJ USA
| | - Elizabeth M McCormick
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Laura MacMullen
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Ibrahim George-Sankoh
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Marni J Falk
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia PA USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia PA USA
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2
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Pena C, Moustafa A, Mohamed AR, Grubb B. Autoimmunity in Syndromes of Orthostatic Intolerance: An Updated Review. J Pers Med 2024; 14:435. [PMID: 38673062 PMCID: PMC11051445 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Orthostatic intolerance is a broad term that represents a spectrum of dysautonomic disorders, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and orthostatic hypotension (OH), as manifestations of severe autonomic failure. While the etiology of orthostatic intolerance has not yet fully been uncovered, it has been associated with multiple underlying pathological processes, including peripheral neuropathy, altered renin-aldosterone levels, hypovolemia, and autoimmune processes. Studies have implicated adrenergic, cholinergic, and angiotensin II type I autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of orthostatic intolerance. Several case series have demonstrated that immunomodulation therapy resulted in favorable outcomes, improving autonomic symptoms in POTS and OH. In this review, we highlight the contemporary literature detailing the association of autoimmunity with POTS and OH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Pena
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA;
| | - Abdelmoniem Moustafa
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (A.M.); (B.G.)
| | - Abdel-Rhman Mohamed
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA;
| | - Blair Grubb
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (A.M.); (B.G.)
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3
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Stallkamp Tidd SJ, Cantrell C, Greene BD, Wilson R. Low-Dose Naltrexone Use in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: A Case Series. Cureus 2023; 15:e43426. [PMID: 37706146 PMCID: PMC10497067 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In recent years, low-dose naltrexone has emerged as a novel off-label therapy for many chronic conditions including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), however, there is little evidence for its efficacy. Methods In this institutional review board (IRB)-approved case series, the charts of six tilt table-confirmed patients with POTS who underwent a trial of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) at our institution were reviewed. Medical history, subjective description of symptom severity, the continuation of therapy, tolerability, and scores on patient-reported outcome measures (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System {PROMIS} Fatigue, PROMIS physical and mental health, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment {GAD}-7, Patient Health Questionnaire {PHQ}-9, and Composite Autonomic Symptom Score {COMPASS}) were collected at therapy initiation and six to 12 months after the start of LDN. Results Three out of six reviewed patients reported an improvement in their POTS after the initiation of LDN. Two patients discontinued the therapy due to a lack of perceived benefit. No side effects or adverse outcomes were reported. The patient-reported outcome measures of PROMIS Fatigue, PROMIS physical and mental health, GAD-7, PHQ-9, and COMPASS showed inconsistent changes over the course of therapy, with some patients showing improvement or stability and others showing worsening. The small sample size and incomplete response rate did not allow for extensive statistical analysis. Conclusion As seen in its use in other conditions, LDN appears to have a favorable safety and side effect profile in patients with POTS but has little evidence for efficacy. Although some patients noted benefit, patient-reported outcome measures show a variable response profile. High-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to determine if the treatment is efficacious and should be used outside of a trial basis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher Cantrell
- Neurology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
| | - Brady D Greene
- Neurology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
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4
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El-Rhermoul FZ, Fedorowski A, Eardley P, Taraborrelli P, Panagopoulos D, Sutton R, Lim PB, Dani M. Autoimmunity in Long Covid and POTS. OXFORD OPEN IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 4:iqad002. [PMID: 37255928 PMCID: PMC10224806 DOI: 10.1093/oxfimm/iqad002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthostatic intolerance and other autonomic dysfunction syndromes are emerging as distinct symptom clusters in Long Covid. Often accompanying these are common, multi-system constitutional features such as fatigue, malaise and skin rashes which can signify generalized immune dysregulation. At the same time, multiple autoantibodies are identified in both Covid-related autonomic disorders and non-Covid autonomic disorders, implying a possible underlying autoimmune pathology. The lack of specificity of these findings precludes direct interpretations of cause and association, but their prevalence with its supporting evidence is compelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatema-Zahra El-Rhermoul
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Artur Fedorowski
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Philip Eardley
- Imperial Syncope Unit, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W12 0HS, UK
| | | | | | - Richard Sutton
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London SW3 6LY, UK
| | - Phang Boon Lim
- Imperial Syncope Unit, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W12 0HS, UK
| | - Melanie Dani
- Imperial Syncope Unit, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W12 0HS, UK
- Cutrale Perioperative and Ageing Group, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, UK
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5
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Ramcharan DN, Alaimo KL, Tiesenga F. Diagnosis and Management of a Hypersensitivity Reaction to Titanium-Containing Surgical Clips: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e34929. [PMID: 36938272 PMCID: PMC10016148 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Although titanium allergies are not commonly diagnosed, they can present with a variety of conditions years after the implantation of titanium-containing medical devices. Furthermore, there are few options to effectively manage the long-term outcomes of these conditions. We present the case of a 41-year-old female who experienced neck swelling, pain, and difficulty swallowing 16 years after a right thyroid lobectomy for benign follicular adenoma, requiring the implantation of titanium-containing surgical clips in her neck. This was accompanied by an extensive symptomatic history, and the patient showed mild reactivity to nickel and titanium on a metal lymphocyte transformation test analysis. X-ray and computed tomography of the neck later confirmed the location of 18 surgical clips. The patient was diagnosed with a chronic immune disease including immune complex disease and mast cell activation-related symptoms. Symptoms were managed with low-dose naltrexone until the surgical clips were removed. Further research is needed to identify more accurate testing methods to diagnose titanium hypersensitivity. Alternative treatment methods should be explored to reduce disease burden and complications related to titanium-containing implants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kayla L Alaimo
- Medicine, Saint James School of Medicine, Park Ridge, USA
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Weinstock LB, Brook JB, Molderings GJ. Efficacy and toxicity of hydroxyurea in mast cell activation syndrome patients refractory to standard medical therapy: retrospective case series. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2022; 395:1441-1447. [PMID: 35982335 PMCID: PMC9388361 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02282-8] [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: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Determine efficacy and adverse events (AEs) of hydroxyurea (HU) in mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) patients who were refractory to standard medical therapy. An electronic chart review was performed to find MCAS patients who received HU in a MCAS medical practice. Diagnosis of MCAS was established on the basis of mast cell (MC) activation symptoms in ≥ 5 systems plus ≥ 1 abnormal MC mediators and/or ≥ 20 MC/high power field on duodenal biopsies. Medicines not providing significant clinical improvement prior to HU were tabulated. The following symptoms were evaluated by patients on a 0–10 scale prior to and at the study conclusion: bone pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. Safety labs were obtained on a regular basis. Twenty out of three hundred ten (8.4%) MCAS patients received HU. Patients included 22 females, average age 42.4 years. Dysautonomia was present in 60%. An average of 10.6 (SD 1.7, range 8–13) medications were used prior to adding HU to various concomitant medications. Average dose of HU was 634 mg. In 20 patients who continued therapy for ≥ 2 months, there was statistically significant reduction of bone pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. Fourteen patients noted prolonged success with therapy. Six patients stopped HU within 6 weeks owing to AEs. Four patients treated ≥ 2 months had AEs and 2 led to HU cessation. All AEs were reversible. Refractory MCAS patients showed clear significant improvement in bone pain and gastrointestinal symptoms on HU. Systematic monitoring was effective in preventing the occurrence of severe HU-induced adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard B Weinstock
- Clinical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, President, Specialists in Gastroenterology, 11525 Olde Cabin Road, St. Louis, MO, 63141, USA
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7
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Afrin LB, Dempsey TT, Weinstock LB. Post-HPV-Vaccination Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Possible Vaccine-Triggered Escalation of Undiagnosed Pre-Existing Mast Cell Disease? Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:127. [PMID: 35062788 PMCID: PMC8779641 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10010127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
For nearly a decade, case reports and series have emerged regarding dysautonomias-particularly postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)-presenting soon after vaccination against human papilloma virus (HPV). We too have observed a number of such cases (all following vaccination with the Gardasil product), and have found several to have detectable mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) as well as histories suggesting that MCAS was likely present long before vaccination. We detail 11 such cases here, posing a hypothesis that HPV vaccination (at least with the Gardasil product) may have triggered or exacerbated MCAS in teenagers previously not recognized to have it. Only recently recognized, MCAS is being increasingly appreciated as a prevalent and chronic multisystem disorder, often emerging early in life and presenting with inflammatory ± allergic phenomena following from known mast cell (MC) mediator effects. There is rising recognition, too, of associations of MCAS with central and peripheral neuropathic disorders, including autonomic disorders such as POTS. Given the recognized potential for many antigens to trigger a major and permanent escalation of baseline MC misbehavior in a given MCAS patient, we hypothesize that in our patients described herein, vaccination with Gardasil may have caused pre-existing (but not yet clinically recognized) MCAS to worsen to a clinically significantly degree, with the emergence of POTS and other issues. The recognition and management of MCAS prior to vaccinations in general may be a strategy worth investigating for reducing adverse events following HPV vaccinations and perhaps even other types of vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence B. Afrin
- AIM Center for Personalized Medicine, Purchase, New York, NY 10577, USA;
| | - Tania T. Dempsey
- AIM Center for Personalized Medicine, Purchase, New York, NY 10577, USA;
| | - Leonard B. Weinstock
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA;
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8
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Mathias CJ, Owens A, Iodice V, Hakim A. Dysautonomia in the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorders-With a focus on the postural tachycardia syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2021; 187:510-519. [PMID: 34766441 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dysautonomia (autonomic dysfunction) occurs in the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD). Symptoms include palpitations, dizziness, presyncope, and syncope, especially when standing upright. Symptoms of orthostatic intolerance are usually relieved by sitting or lying and may be exacerbated by stimuli in daily life that cause vasodilatation, such as food ingestion, exertion, and heat. Neurocardiovascular dysautonomia may result in postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS), a major cause of orthostatic intolerance. It is defined by a rise in heart rate of >30 beats per minute (bpm) in adults and >40 bpm in teenagers while upright, without a fall in blood pressure (BP; orthostatic hypotension). In some, it can be compounded by the presence of low BP. For many, there is delay in clinicians recognizing the nature of the symptoms, and recognizing EDS or HSD, leading to delays in treatment. The onset of PoTS may be linked to an event such as infection, trauma, surgery, or stress. Gastrointestinal and urinary bladder involvement may occur, along with thermoregulatory dysfunction. In some, the mast cell activation syndrome may be contributary, especially if it causes vasodilatation. This paper reviews neurocardiovascular dysautonomia with an emphasis on PoTS, its characteristics, associations, pathophysiology, investigation, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Mathias
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,The Lindo Wing, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, UK.,Autonomic Unit, National Hospital Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCLH NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrew Owens
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Valeria Iodice
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,Autonomic Unit, National Hospital Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCLH NHS Trust, London, UK
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9
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Dockrell DM, Berg KM, Ralston SH. Mind the gaps: therapists' experiences of managing symptomatic hypermobility in Scotland. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2021; 5:rkab046. [PMID: 34396034 PMCID: PMC8358480 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkab046] [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: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim was to ascertain occupational therapist (OT) and physiotherapist (PT) experiences of managing hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSDs) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) patients, specifically the training and confidence levels of therapists, use of evidence-based practice, accessibility of pain management and clinical psychology services, and perceived usefulness of a specialist centre in Scotland. Methods A mixed-method survey was distributed to Rheumatology OTs/PTs in Scotland. It included multiple choice and open text questions, which were analysed to reflect therapists’ experiences and perception of service need. Results We found that therapists in Scotland do have expertise in the management of HSD/hEDS patients; however, this expertise tends to be concentrated in secondary care, which makes it difficult for patients who are managed in primary care to access. The majority of respondents reported lack of access to external training (80%). There was difficulty in referral to pain management services (55%) and clinical psychology (28%) among adult therapists. Paediatric services provided considerably better access to these disciplines. Of note, the majority of respondents were in favour of a specialist centre in Scotland for the training and education of therapists (94.7%) and the diagnosis and management of complex HSD/hEDS patients (73.7%). Conclusion More research is needed urgently to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy interventions to underpin a national guideline in order that we can improve outcomes for HSD/hEDS patients. A specialist centre with expert and engaged clinicians would be a valuable asset in coordinating patient-focused research and conducting good-quality clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dervil M Dockrell
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kathryn M Berg
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Stuart H Ralston
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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10
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Afrin LB, Ackerley MB, Bluestein LS, Brewer JH, Brook JB, Buchanan AD, Cuni JR, Davey WP, Dempsey TT, Dorff SR, Dubravec MS, Guggenheim AG, Hindman KJ, Hoffman B, Kaufman DL, Kratzer SJ, Lee TM, Marantz MS, Maxwell AJ, McCann KK, McKee DL, Menk Otto L, Pace LA, Perkins DD, Radovsky L, Raleigh MS, Rapaport SA, Reinhold EJ, Renneker ML, Robinson WA, Roland AM, Rosenbloom ES, Rowe PC, Ruhoy IS, Saperstein DS, Schlosser DA, Schofield JR, Settle JE, Weinstock LB, Wengenroth M, Westaway M, Xi SC, Molderings GJ. Diagnosis of mast cell activation syndrome: a global "consensus-2". Diagnosis (Berl) 2021; 8:137-152. [PMID: 32324159 DOI: 10.1515/dx-2020-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The concept that disease rooted principally in chronic aberrant constitutive and reactive activation of mast cells (MCs), without the gross MC neoplasia in mastocytosis, first emerged in the 1980s, but only in the last decade has recognition of "mast cell activation syndrome" (MCAS) grown significantly. Two principal proposals for diagnostic criteria have emerged. One, originally published in 2012, is labeled by its authors as a "consensus" (re-termed here as "consensus-1"). Another sizable contingent of investigators and practitioners favor a different approach (originally published in 2011, newly termed here as "consensus-2"), resembling "consensus-1" in some respects but differing in others, leading to substantial differences between these proposals in the numbers of patients qualifying for diagnosis (and thus treatment). Overdiagnosis by "consensus-2" criteria has potential to be problematic, but underdiagnosis by "consensus-1" criteria seems the far larger problem given (1) increasing appreciation that MCAS is prevalent (up to 17% of the general population), and (2) most MCAS patients, regardless of illness duration prior to diagnosis, can eventually identify treatment yielding sustained improvement. We analyze these proposals (and others) and suggest that, until careful research provides more definitive answers, diagnosis by either proposal is valid, reasonable, and helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linda S Bluestein
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wausau, WI, USA
| | | | - Jill B Brook
- Alaska Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | | | - Jill R Cuni
- Division of Pediatrics, Beaver Medical Group, Banning, CA, USA
| | - William P Davey
- Department of Dermatology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Alena G Guggenheim
- Comprehensive Pain Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Bruce Hoffman
- Hoffman Centre for Integrative and Functional Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Laurie Menk Otto
- Helfgott Research Institute, National College of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Laura A Pace
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mark L Renneker
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - William A Robinson
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Aaron M Roland
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Peter C Rowe
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jill R Schofield
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Janet E Settle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | | | - Martina Wengenroth
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Shijun Cindy Xi
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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11
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Kesserwani H. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome Misdiagnosed as Anxiety: A Case Report with a Review of Therapy and Pathophysiology. Cureus 2020; 12:e10881. [PMID: 33178533 PMCID: PMC7652348 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.10881] [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] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Dizziness can be protean with multiple phenotypes. One common phenotype in the young population is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). POTS has a unique cardiovascular signature with a fascinating range of etiologies and pharmacodynamic substrates. This condition can pass undiagnosed for many years and is often mistaken as an anxiety disorder due to some of its hyperadrenergic manifestations. We present one such case and then flesh out the treatment strategies, both conservative and pharmacologic. We finally describe the various underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of POTS and its sub-types and outline the various aberrant cardiovascular reflexes. We also describe the power spectra of the heart rate variability frequency bands and their underlying physiologic basis.
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12
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Treatment Updates in Postural Tachycardia Syndrome. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-020-00643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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13
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Ganesh R, Bonnes SLR, DiBaise JK. Postural Tachycardia Syndrome: Nutrition Implications. Nutr Clin Pract 2020; 35:818-825. [PMID: 32809263 DOI: 10.1002/ncp.10564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a syndrome characterized by elevated heart rate without hypotension and most commonly occurs in young females (generally <35 years of age). The prevalence of POTS is on the rise, but the etiology is still under investigation, and there appear to be multiple potential physiologic causes. The majority of these patients experience a multitude of gastrointestinal (GI) and systemic symptoms and conditions that may contribute to functional debility and poor quality of life. Although symptoms generally improve with age, they can still lead to significant issues meeting nutrition and hydration needs. This paper summarizes the understood potential pathophysiology of POTS, associated GI and nutrition issues, general treatment of POTS, and strategies to assess and meet the unique nutrition and hydration needs of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravindra Ganesh
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sara L R Bonnes
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - John K DiBaise
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
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14
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Cheshire WP. Autonomic medical practice viewed through the lens of physician-rating websites. Clin Auton Res 2020; 30:335-341. [DOI: 10.1007/s10286-020-00665-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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15
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Kharraziha I, Axelsson J, Ricci F, Di Martino G, Persson M, Sutton R, Fedorowski A, Hamrefors V. Serum Activity Against G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Severity of Orthostatic Symptoms in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e015989. [PMID: 32750291 PMCID: PMC7792263 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.015989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is characterized by excessive heart rate increase on standing and orthostatic intolerance. Previous data indicate autoimmune involvement. We studied serum activity against G protein–coupled receptors in relation to symptoms in patients with POTS and controls using a commercial cell‐based assay. Methods and Results Forty‐eight patients with POTS (aged 28.6±10.5 years; 44 women) and 25 healthy individuals (aged 30.7±8.6 years; 21 women) were included. The 10‐item Orthostatic Hypotension Questionnaire (OHQ) was completed by 33 patients with POTS and all controls. Human embryonic kidney 293 cells overexpressing one G protein–coupled receptor: adrenergic α1 receptor, adrenergic β2 receptor, cholinergic muscarinic type 2 receptor, and opioid receptor‐like 1 were treated with sera from all patients. Receptor response was analyzed using a β‐arrestin–linked transcription factor driving transgenic β‐lactamase transcription by fluorescence resonance energy transfer method. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed. G protein–coupled receptor activation was related to OHQ indices in linear regression models. Sera from patients with POTS activated all 4 receptors to a higher degree compared with controls (P<0.01 for all). The area under the curve was 0.88 (0.80–0.97, P<0.001) combining all 4 receptors. Adrenergic α1 receptor activation associated with OHQ composite score (β=0.77 OHQ points per SD of activity, P=0.009) and with reduced tolerability for prolonged standing (P=0.037) and walking for short (P=0.042) or long (P=0.001) periods. All 4 receptors were associated with vision problems (P<0.05 for all). Conclusions Our results indicate the presence of circulating proteins activating adrenergic, muscarinic, and nociceptin receptors in patients with POTS. Serum‐mediated activation of these receptors has high predictive value for POTS. Activation of adrenergic α1 receptor is associated with orthostatic symptoms severity in patients with POTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Kharraziha
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,Department of Internal Medicine Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| | - Jonas Axelsson
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy and Apheresis Karolinska University Hospital Stockholm Sweden
| | - Fabrizio Ricci
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies "G. d'Annunzio" University Chieti Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Martino
- Department of Medicine and Ageing Sciences "G. d'Annunzio" University Chieti Italy
| | - Margaretha Persson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,Department of Internal Medicine Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| | - Richard Sutton
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,National Heart and Lung InstituteImperial CollegeHammersmith Hospital Campus London United Kingdom
| | - Artur Fedorowski
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,Department of Cardiology Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| | - Viktor Hamrefors
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,Department of Internal Medicine Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
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16
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Dorff SR, Afrin LB. Mast cell activation syndrome in pregnancy, delivery, postpartum and lactation: a narrative review. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2020; 40:889-901. [PMID: 32148151 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2019.1674259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is a chronic multisystem disease of aberrant constitutive and reactive mast cell mediator release causing generally inflammatory, allergic, and dystrophic issues. The pathobiology of MCAS drives extraordinary clinical complexity and heterogeneity, which led to only recent recognition despite increasingly apparent substantial prevalence, perhaps as high as 17%. It also has a strong female predilection. Thus, MCAS inescapably impacts pregnancy and the post-partum period in many women. No specific research in the pregnant or post-partum MCAS population has been performed yet. However, its prevalence and potential for driving substantial morbidity merit obstetric providers' acquaintance with this illness and its potential impacts on their patients during pregnancy, delivery, the post-partum period, and lactation. Extensive literature review across all medical specialities, plus direct experience in the authors' practices, provides guidance in recognising MCAS in pregnancy and diagnosing and effectively managing it. Described herein are manners in which MCAS, a protean multisystem disease, adversely affects all stages of pregnancy and post-partum. In order to reduce risks of MCAS causing complications before, during and after pregnancy, identifying and controlling the syndrome prior to pregnancy is best, but, even if the disease is not recognised until late, there may still be opportunities to mitigate its effects. There is precedent for improved outcomes if comorbid MCAS is recognised and controlled. This review provides the first comprehensive guide for obstetric providers regarding this emerging major comorbidity.
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17
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Ziffra JB, Olshansky B. Acute Water Ingestion as a Treatment for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag 2019; 10:3541-3544. [PMID: 32477718 PMCID: PMC7252788 DOI: 10.19102/icrm.2019.100206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A 24-year-old female presented to our clinic with symptomatic tachycardia. In the clinic, she was able to replicate her symptoms, which were due to tachycardia in a standing position that resolved upon sitting. The patient was then offered eight ounces (236.6 mL) of water and, after consumption of such, the standing tachycardia was no longer observed. A diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) was made. This case report discusses a novel approach to acute treatment for POTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey B Ziffra
- Department of Cardiology, Mercy Medical Center, Mason City, IA, USA
| | - Brian Olshansky
- Department of Cardiology, Mercy Medical Center, Mason City, IA, USA.,Department of Cardiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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18
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Weinstock LB, Kaleem Z, Selby D, Afrin LB. Mast cell deposition and activation may be a new explanation for epiploic appendagitis. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 2018:bcr-2018-224689. [PMID: 30249726 PMCID: PMC6157556 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-224689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Epiploic appendagitis is as an acute painful condition of the fat on the outside of the intestine. Thus far, there have been no publications to our knowledge that appendagitis can be caused by mast cells or can be associated with chronic pain. A patient with multisystemic disorders suffered with both chronic and acute attacks of abdominal pain for a year. The worst attack led to surgical resection of an enlarged sigmoid colon epiploic appendage. Careful review of her complex medical history and mast cell stains of gastrointestinal biopsies led to the diagnosis of mast cell activation syndrome. Re-examination of the resected appendage using an immunohistochemical stain demonstrated a high mast cell density which is a new histopathological finding. Treatment of mast cell activation syndrome and other related syndromes led to marked improvement in her health, including all types of chronic abdominal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard B Weinstock
- Gastroenterology, GI, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Medicine, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Zahid Kaleem
- Gastroenterology, GI, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dale Selby
- Department of Pathology, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lawrence B Afrin
- Internal Medicine, Armonk Integrative Medicine, Armonk, New York, USA
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19
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Toljan K, Vrooman B. Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-Review of Therapeutic Utilization. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:medsci6040082. [PMID: 30248938 PMCID: PMC6313374 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6040082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Naltrexone and naloxone are classical opioid antagonists. In substantially lower than standard doses, they exert different pharmacodynamics. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN), considered in a daily dose of 1 to 5 mg, has been shown to reduce glial inflammatory response by modulating Toll-like receptor 4 signaling in addition to systemically upregulating endogenous opioid signaling by transient opioid-receptor blockade. Clinical reports of LDN have demonstrated possible benefits in diseases such as fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, complex-regional pain syndrome, Hailey-Hailey disease, and cancer. In a dosing range at less than 1 μg per day, oral naltrexone or intravenous naloxone potentiate opioid analgesia by acting on filamin A, a scaffolding protein involved in μ-opioid receptor signaling. This dose is termed ultra low-dose naltrexone/naloxone (ULDN). It has been of use in postoperative control of analgesia by reducing the need for the total amount of opioids following surgery, as well as ameliorating certain side-effects of opioid-related treatment. A dosing range between 1 μg and 1 mg comprises very low-dose naltrexone (VLDN), which has primarily been used as an experimental adjunct treatment for boosting tolerability of opioid-weaning methadone taper. In general, all of the low-dose features regarding naltrexone and naloxone have been only recently and still scarcely scientifically evaluated. This review aims to present an overview of the current knowledge on these topics and summarize the key findings published in peer-review sources. The existing potential of LDN, VLDN, and ULDN for various areas of biomedicine has still not been thoroughly and comprehensively addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Toljan
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Kispaticeva 12, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Bruce Vrooman
- Section of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Dr, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03756, USA.
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